Addiction and abuse of illegal and legal drugs including alcohol is one of the most significant social and health issues facing the US. It has been estimated that almost 20 million people use some form of illegal drug, most commonly marijuana, although use of an illegal drug may not necessarily lead to a damaging addiction. It is believed that over 16 million Americans abuse some form of drug or alcohol, and almost 20,000 deaths per year are attributed to drug-related causes. More information can be found at www.drugrehabinfo.org
An addiction may be emotional and psychological, which can have a negative impact on the social and family life of the sufferer, as well as having financial consequences. Drug addictions may also take the form of physical dependence, causing unpleasant and sometimes painful physical reactions when the sufferer suddenly stops taking the drug. Some drugs are more likely to lead to physical addictions than others, such as narcotics and cocaine.
Drug and alcohol rehabilitation has become a major industry, with a large number of clinics offering a range of medical and social services. Choosing the most effective and appropriate treatment is a major life decision for drug addiction sufferers and their families.
Qualified supervision by a trained specialist in addiction medicine is the key element in a safe, sustainable recovery. Twenty four hour hospital services to monitor the patient’s condition and progress are often necessary to treat the most serious addictions.
Counseling and education of both the patient and their family is also an essential element of an effective program. Continuing care and outpatient services ensure the sufferer is able to integrate the skills they have learnt during the recovery process into their everyday life. Some treatment centers also provide community education aimed at reducing the social stigma of drug and alcohol addiction, and helping to prevent new cases arising.
Author: Sufi Fanning
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