5 Top Drug Treatment Options To Benefit A Drug PatientThere are many, and sometimes baffling drug treatment options that an individual can choose from. However, the list is basically categorized into two: the first comprises the short-term treatment program and the other is the long-term program. The program of choice will be based on the nature of the patient’s drug use as well as the individual’s capability to absorb treatments and therapies and apply those to his advantage. 1. One of the most common drug addiction treatment choice for patients and their families is the residential program (short term) that usually lasts from a minimum of 3 to a maximum of 6 months. This includes:
2. Another option an individual can choose from is the long-term residential program that offers a 24-hour daily care. This program often follows the model known as therapeutic communities (TC) which requires the patient to stay in the drug rehab facility from 6 to 12 months. This program is highly recommended for persons who have severe drug problems and at the same time are beginning to suffer from mental illnesses and exhibit criminal behaviors. It is preferred over other options since it strictly follows a structured process and is believed to produce a better result. 3. For patients who are more controlled and can handle treatment on an outpatient basis, the best choice is the Outpatient drug-free treatment. This is the best option for patients who believe that their social network can be a good help for their quick recovery. This program is more affordable as compared with residential or inpatient programs as it offers intensive day treatments only. Studies showed that this program may not be as effective as those earlier mentioned but it has still produced significant outcomes according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. 4. Another commonly used treatment option is pharmacotherapy, an option believed to have significantly helped in treating drug addiction. This method targets the treatment of co-existing psychological problems experienced by the patient as he withdraws from substance use. Examples of these problems are depression and anxiety. However, experts claimed that the selection of these drugs must be carefully done as they may be addictive also, and could even worsen the drug dependence. Recent therapy developments have started to mix pharmacotherapy with counseling as they were found to be a good pair in addressing drug dependence. 5. For patients who believe their case is still manageable but dangerous if not immediately addressed, they could opt for the self-help option. This would require a more responsible individual who is aware of his condition and responsible enough to handle his own treatment. This option includes self-assessment of drug-taking behavior, monitoring, education about the consequences of drug dependency, modification of drug-taking behavior, and easy access to extended support groups. But whatever drug treatment option one decides on, the patient should also avail of a counseling program to help him emotionally and psychologically. Counselors may apply the motivational interviewing method that employs a feedback, advice, and empathy process that is aimed to convince the patient to change undesirable behaviors for full recovery. This program also involves family therapy which puts much weight on the role of family members as a big factor in the patient’s progress. It is aimed to improve family communication, provide education and deliberately guide the patient to go back to normal community life. |