Drug Rehabilitation - What is it? - Types of treatment

by TM Maria Be a king in your own kingdom

Drug rehabilitation (or simply rehabilitation) is a term used for medical or psychotherapeutic treatment processes, for the dependence on psychoactive substances such as alcohol, drugs and illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin or amphetamines. The general intention is to make the patient stop the substance abuse, in order to avoid the psychological, legal, financial, social and physical consequences that may occur, especially after the extreme abuse.

The psychological dependence

Psychological dependence is addressed in many drug rehab programs, trying to teach patients new methods of interaction in a drug-free environment. In particular, patients are encouraged, or even required not to associate with friends who continue to use addictive substances. There are twelve-step programs that help addicts not only stop using alcohol and other drugs, but also examine and change habits related to addictions. Many programs emphasize that recovery is a permanent process without completion. For legal drugs such as alcohol, emphasis is placed on complete abstention rather than attempts at moderation, which can lead to relapse. If moderation is achievable for those with a history of abuse, it remains a moot point.

Types of treatment for drug rehabilitation

There are several types of programs that offer help in drug rehabilitation, including: residential treatment, outpatient clinics, local support groups, drug rehabilitation clinics, addiction counseling, mental health, orthomolecular medicine, and medical care. Some drug rehabilitation clinics offer specific programs according to the age and gender of the patient.

The scientific research started in 1970 shows that effective treatment addresses the multiple needs of the patient instead of treating only the addiction. In addition, detoxification with medication is only ineffective as a treatment for addiction. The institutes on drug abuse recommend drug detoxification (if applicable) and behavioral therapy, followed by prevention of relapse. According to these institutes, effective treatment must deal with medical and mental health services, and other options, such as recovery support with the community or family. Whatever the methodology, the motivation of the patient is an important factor in the success of drug treatment.

For people addicted to prescription drugs, treatments tend to be similar to those who are addicted to drugs that affect the same brain systems. Medications such as methadone and buprenorphine can be used to treat addiction to prescription opiates, and behavioral therapies can be used to treat addiction to prescription stimulants, benzodiazepines, and other medications.