According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are several principles of effective treatment. They are: Understanding that alcohol addiction is a disease that is known to be complex, but treatable. It affects a person’s brain function and behavior, and these can persist even after the problem has been treated. Understanding that there is no single “right” way to treat alcohol addiction. Every person is an individual with their own unique needs. It is important for people to find the method of treatment and recovery that will work best for them.