NCJ Number
172338
Date Published
1995
Length
74 pages
Annotation
This report summarizes research findings and practical experience in overcoming problems with alcohol and other drugs.
Abstract
The report defines addiction as a chronic, relapsing disease with roots in both genetic susceptibility and personal behavior. It has no known cure, but can be controlled through treatment. The costs of untreated addiction -- violence, crime, poor health, family breakup and other social ills -- far exceed the costs of addiction treatment. Substance abuse treatment programs differ in philosophy, setting, duration, and approach. Most involve some combination of detoxification, rehabilitation, continuing care and relapse prevention. This report describes the elements of each phase and some major national studies illustrating effectiveness. The report describes promising programs, including information on severe addictions; treatment for criminal justice populations, for women, and for adolescents; substance abuse in the workplace; and statewide treatment systems. A separate section provides a list of State agency contacts. Short profiles included throughout the report describe how individuals have overcome problems with alcohol and other drugs. Notes, references