Drug Addiction Treatment Research

The principles of drug addiction are sometimes very unclear. What causes addiction? Why are some people addicts, while some aren't? How do you deal with dual diagnosis (a mental health disorder and a substance abuse issue) in a successful way? These questions cannot be answered simply, just as drug addiction cannot be treated simply. In order to approach the difficulties that result from drug addiction, drug addiction treatment is designed in a way that focuses specifically on certain aspects of the addiction and the consequences that follow. Addiction research is largely evidence based, which is reassuring to those who are taking part in drug rehab treatment. However, there are many professional researchers working on new methods of treatment and new ways for successful recovery. Of the existing drug addiction rehab treatments available, research has show two very successful methods: Pharmacotherapies and Behavioral Therapies. 

Pharmacotherapies are mainly used for opioid addiction, tobacco addiction, and alcohol addiction. In this type of therapy treatment, an addict is given different drugs to allow full recovery by lessening their dependence slowly but surely. Opioid pharmacotherapy is widely controversial because it is viewed as simply replacing one opioid for another more acceptable form of opioid. However, research has shown that taking the opioid prescriptions such as methadone and buprenorphine, an opioid addict can hold a steady job, avoid crime and violence, and reduce the risk of HIV through injection. For alcohol addiction, there are many different drugs that allow for a more comfortable withdrawal period. There are also some that, when taken, will cause the user to feel very ill if they drink alcohol. This is helpful for highly motivated persons, or in high-risk situations, such as parties where alcohol will be present. All of these drugs that allow for comfortable and reasonable changes in a person's lifestyle have been shown to work significantly better with the help of behavioral therapy, but it is also shown that with most addictions, what matters most is getting help.

Behavioral therapies have always been shown as the most helpful, probably because of the way they compel a drug user into approaching their abuse through the idea of complete treatment. They are forced to confront their problems – not only problems with drug use, but in the rest of their lives as well – and thus choose to modify their attitudes toward drug abuse. Many addicts will increase their life skills in drug rehab, relating to stressful situations and the cravings for drugs. There are numerous behavioral treatments as a result of positive study results. A few of the most common and successful are cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, the matrix model, 12-step programs, family behavior therapy, and behavioral therapies primarily for adolescents.

Through a drug and alcohol addiction assessment given by a treatment center, you will be able to join the therapy situation the best fits your needs and your life situation. Do not wait to get help – find treatment that works for you. Drug addiction is a scary thing to deal with, but you don't have to do it alone.