The more key people who are involved, and the more documentation presented, the less likely it is that the user can make excuses, rationalize or lie about her or his actions. Even if the user minimizes the problem and only seeks treatment to placate the others, this is still a positive step and may signal the beginning of recovery. Treatment Choices Treatment is a process that prevents, alters or interrupts the progression of the dependency. A variety of treatments are available for chemical dependency. Some of them may be used alone or in cooperation with others.
Medical treatment is overseen by medical personnel.
It includes detoxification, which involves weaning the patient off the drug while minimizing withdrawal symptoms and controlling possible seizures. Complete physical exams at the beginning of this process allow physicians to attend to physical ailments such as liver and kidney problems. Inpatient and outpatient programs are offered by licensed medical and psychological professionals, who provide a combination of individual, group and family therapy. Attention is also paid to managing relapse or a recurrence of the drug-taking behavior. Therapeutic communities involve a live-in residential arrangement, whereby support is provided by paraprofessionals who are former addicts.