NCJ Number
192770
Date Published
2001
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This videotape focuses on the important aspects of treatment of drug addiction.
Abstract
The number of people in the United States that need treatment for alcohol or drug addiction is 13 to 16 million but only 3 million actually get treatment. Addiction produces such psychological symptoms as depression, hopelessness, and suicidal tendencies. Before seeking treatment, many addicts feel “the dark night of the soul” or that life is not worth living. When the individual is ready for treatment, there should be a place to go to for help. Impediments to getting treatment are waiting lists for treatment programs, no insurance, denial, procrastination, and the stigma attached to addiction. The social cost of addiction is $294 billion a year when considering criminal justice, health care, child welfare, and other costs. Treatment costs equal about $12 billion a year. Reasonable health care would reduce these costs. The public should be educated on the powerful effects of drug addiction. Chronic addiction is a brain disease or disorder that changes the physical aspects of the brain. Methods available for treatment are pharmacological and behavioral. Pharmacological treatment is prominent for alcohol, opiate, and nicotine use. One behavioral approach is contingency management, which provides rewards for positive behavior. A person must be ready for treatment. A 90-day treatment program is the most effective. The initial assessment process of an individual with an addiction determines what would work best for that particular individual. Some options are detoxification, a stable environment, family support, and addressing the alcohol-driven behavior. Chronic addiction requires long-term treatment in the form of residential, outpatient, or group support. Periods of recovery and productivity are possible but when there is a relapse nonjudgmental help is imperative. RAP, Inc., a drug treatment program in Washington, DC, uses a holistic approach incorporating diet, mental, and spiritual changes; Afro-centric self-esteem issues; and a connection to the community. Medical and mental illness physicians need to be adequately trained and educated to diagnose and treat addicted individuals.