THE ROAD TO RECOVERY: The Likeliness of Drug and Alcohol Relapse
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Drug and alcohol addiction is a major concern in the US, but it is possible for patients to recover with the right treatment. Many rehabilitation centers have shown good results, having helped many patients go back to their normal lives. In some cases, however, people who try to recover from addiction do not stay in the recovery phase for long. They find themselves craving like before, leading to a relapse. A relapse is the recurrence of any condition that is undergoing or has already gone through treatment.
Chronic Drug and Alcohol Addiction The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reported that the relapse rate of drug addiction is similar to patients experiencing a well-characterized chronic illness. Their study shows that the relapse rate for drug addiction is from 40% to 60%, while diabetes (Type 1), hypertension and asthma are from 30% to 70%. The NIDA noted that everybody should treat drug addiction like any other chronic illness. Medications alone are not enough because patients need long-term treatment.
A Question of When, Not If Experts say that drug and alcohol relapse is a question of “when it will take place”, as opposed to “if it will take place.” Relapses are common in the recovery process, especially after the rehabilitation period has ended. As such, it is best to have a continuous recovery process that does not have an end date. Due to the time commitment involved, many are willing to try outpatient treatment even if it puts them in a vulnerable environment. After all, they can go to school or work, be with their family, and do not have to explain their long absence to anyone.
Drug and alcohol addicts have high relapse rates, but this does not mean that they cannot get over their addiction. With the help of constant treatment and a better understanding of their condition, recovery is within reach.
RESOURCES: http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/addiction-science/relapse http://www.recovery.org/topics/preventing-drug-and-alcohol-relapse-throughhealthy-living-for-you- and-your-loved-ones/ http://www.renaissanceoutpatient.com/