Drug treatment options

Once a person has recognized that he or she has a drug problem, the recovery process can begin. Recovery begins when the person stops using the drug so the body can rid itself of the drug and its effects. If the person is physically and psychologically addicted to the drug, he or she may experience withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the drug used, but may include headaches, vomiting, chills, and hallucinations.

Drug users need help to recover from a drug addiction. Many communities offer treatment programs, counseling, and support groups to help people recover from drug abuse. Treatment programs include both inpatient and outpatient programs. Some hospitals and treatment centers have detoxification units for people going through withdrawal. Detoxification is the physical process of freeing the body of an addictive substance. Once the physical dependency is overcome, the person can focus on changing his or her thinking and habits that led to their drug use.

Some people find the support and help they need to stay drug free through counseling. Counseling provides an opportunity to openly share thoughts and feelings with a trained expert. It can help addicts deal with their psychological dependency on drugs. Counseling may involve only the addict, or it may involve the addict’s entire family.