If substance abusers are neither in a life-threatening situation nor suicidal, encourage them to seek treatment. Many treatment programs specialize in treating either drugs or alcohol. Substance abusers should be referred to a program dealing with their primary abuse problem. The kind of help needed varies depending on the degree of dependence and over-all physical condition. Chronic drinkers who may be physically addicted may need to begin recovery with a detoxification program lasting three to five days.
Most alcoholics can safely detox in a social model program.
Any person in the final stages of alcoholism who is hemorrhaging from the lungs, has delirium tremors, or will have seizures if the drinking stops too suddenly, or has other severe medical problems needs medical supervision. Medical detox programs use medications to detox chronic alcoholics. Most detox facilities either have their own residential programs or can arrange for residential care elsewhere. Programs vary but they typically include twelve- step work, support groups, family support, alcoholism education, and vocational counseling and assistance. Detoxification is required for certain drugs, such as heroin and barbiturates.