Drug addiction occurs when an individual becomes dependent on a substance of abuse. It is typically a medical disease with genetic and environmental causes. Part of treating addiction involves rehabilitation or any number of techniques that explore the cause of addiction and equip the addict with the skills necessary to avoid a relapse.

Significance

Drug rehabilitation is a term used to describe any professional means of helping an addict overcome addiction. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is a standard part of treatment that works to identify the cause of addiction and prevent a relapse.

Types

Rehab includes inpatient treatment at a licensed rehabilitation center, as well as outpatient treatment groups, counseling and self-help programs such as Narcotics Anonymous.

Components

According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, rehab typically includes abstaining from the narcotic and all other intoxicating substances; working to remove the addict's denial of a problem; sharing stories and creating bonds with fellow addicts in recovery; and learning how to beat addiction once treatment is complete.

Considerations

Families and friends play a vital role in rehabilitation and may benefit from counseling themselves. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can include attending family versions of self-help groups and seeing a marriage or family therapist.

Warning

Addicts and their families should watch themselves and one another for signs of depression. People with depression are more likely to develop substance abuse problems, according to the Mayo Clinic, and the emotional trauma of seeing a loved one battle addiction may cause depression in others.

Source:

Mayoclinic.com: Drug Addiction

The Partnership for A Drug-Free America: What Happens in Rehab?