Escalating addiction rates related to heroin use and prescription drug abuse results in numerous casualties, including car accidents, emergency room visits and overdoses. Additional problems created by substance abuse include trouble holding down a job, broken relationships and chronic health conditions. Many substance users are in denial, clinging to the belief that they can control their addiction and stop anytime they want to. The facts suggest otherwise and there are an increasing number of people becoming addicted to substances that damage or destroy their lives.
Fortunately, drug addiction therapy has proven effective in a high percentage of patients who commit to receiving professional treatment, particularly when the following conditions apply:
Help is needed controlling the problem
Whether a person has been a closet drinker or publicly drank more than they should, they eventually realize that alcohol or drug use is negatively impacting their life. Maybe a person has tried to beat addiction on their own, without success. They realize the problem may be more than they can handle, and are concerned about the potential for more serious consequences. It is important to understand the need to seek professional therapy to evaluate the addiction and seek a treatment plan.
The goal of permanent recovery
Rather than just quitting for a weekend or stopping drinking to lose a few pounds, it is crucial to understand the importance of quitting for good. This requires a firm commitment to getting the addiction under control. With a full understanding of the nature of recovery, work can begin to overcome addiction by engaging in professional treatment, which can provide monitoring and guidance for success.
Enrolling in drug addiction therapy
While there are countless alcohol rehab facilities, look for one that best suits your situation. Considerations include the location, schedule and success rate, among other factors. You may decide to keep your full-time job and participate in an outpatient program. Alternatively, you might take a leave from your job, or if you are already unemployed, you can become a full-time resident in an alcohol rehab facility that meets your specific needs.
Becoming part of a support system
Rather than attempting to go through recovery alone, professionals can help organize a support system of family members, loved ones, and friends to provide support and encouragement. You also may be assigned to group therapy as part of an in-house or community-based therapy program. Churches, employers and civic groups often sponsor recovery programs or provide support services to help those in recovery. Sometimes, a specific individual may become a partner who walks the journey of recovery with a person. This may be someone who can be called when a person is tempted to relapse.
Committing to follow-up care
Following the completion of residential treatment or outpatient therapy, continuing care is advisable. This can involve joining a local support group or remaining accountable to a loved one or close friend who will help if temptation occurs. Addiction therapy experts can help with additional services, and an individual should continue to see a counselor while body and mind heal. Recovery is a lifelong process and it is essential to stay the course.
Alcohol addiction and drug addiction can be treated effectively when following these five steps. Get additional information about addiction therapy services and decide if you are completely ready for recovery.
Raymond Bilger 
Conrad Armer 
Daryl Green