The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimated in 2002 that drug abuse costs the United States approximately $181 billion dollars each year. This huge financial burden does not reflect the grave toll of alcohol or prescription drug abuse. It also does not take into consideration how substance abuse affects the physical and emotional health of both addict and their family and friends. Drug addiction also increases the spread of diseases like HIV and hepatitis.
Residential drug and alcohol treatment is a logical first step for people who want to stop the cycle of addiction. Many health insurance companies will pay for a residential drug and alcohol treatment program, while some states offer free or subsidized programs for people who cannot afford the necessary treatment.
Most residential drug and alcohol treatment programs embrace the patient, not just the addiction. This means that a thorough evaluation will take place, allowing the experts to customize a unique treatment program that will meet the needs of the individual patient.
At the time of admission into a residential drug and alcohol treatment facility, the patient is first examined for any coexisting mental illness. This dual diagnosis means that both the substance abuse and mental illness will be treated at the same time. Most of the time, it is necessary to detoxify the body from the damaging substances before the real work of treatment can begin. At a residential substance abuse treatment center, physicians are on staff to medically manage the detox process. This can include special medications to stabilize the patient’s blood pressure and manage anxiety, depression and the disruption of sleep.
Withdrawal from drugs and alcohol can be painful, but at a residential substance abuse treatment facility, the symptoms can be safely controlled with expert medical care. It is important to remember that the detoxification process is only the first step towards a healthy life. It is imperative to address the emotional, psychological and social aspects of substance abuse. At a residential drug and alcohol treatment center, the patient can feel safe and free from a ready supply of drugs and alcohol. A good program will include individual and group therapy, which will help pave the road to long term sobriety.
