NCJ Number
161242
Date Published
1995
Length
73 pages
Annotation
This report summarizes research findings regarding addiction and the effectiveness of alcohol and other drug treatment.
Abstract
The report emphasizes that addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease that, like hypertension or diabetes, has roots in both genetic susceptibility and personal behavior. Although addiction has no known cure, it can be controlled through treatment. Few people addicted to alcohol and other drugs can simply stop using, no matter how strong their inner resolve. Most need one or more courses of structured drug treatment to reduce or end their dependence on alcohol and other drugs. The general phases of treatment include detoxification, rehabilitation, continuing care, and relapse prevention strategies. Treatment for addiction is effective and is becoming more so. Even if a person never achieves perfect abstinence, addiction treatment can reduce the number and duration of relapses, minimize related problems, improve the individual's ability to function in daily life, and strengthen the individual to cope better with the next temptation or craving. The costs of untreated addiction include violence, other crime, health problems, family breakup, and other social problems. These costs far exceed the costs of addiction treatment. Descriptions of promising programs for people with severe addictions, criminal justice populations, women, adolescents, and workplace programs. Discussion of statewide treatment systems, State agency contacts, and reference notes