Drug use isn’t static and it doesn’t affect everyone the same. For some, that use turns to abuse and eventually into an addiction. The way addiction grabs a hold of people is also dynamic and while some people can find their way out of it, for others it becomes a vise grip from which they can’t escape under their own volition or efforts.

The longer a person struggles with substance abuse and the further they fall into that black hole, the more likely it is that long term treatment for drug addiction is going to be the solution that truly helps them get their life back.

Drug Addiction Defined

Fortunately, the opinions on addiction have shifted society-wide since more research into the subject has yielded a more evolved scientific view on substance abuse.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that “addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. It is considered both a complex brain disorder and a mental illness. Addiction is the most severe form of a full spectrum of substance use disorders, and is a medical illness caused by repeated misuse of a substance or substances”.

What Is the Best Way To Treat Drug Addiction?

As mentioned at the top, addiction doesn’t afflict everyone in the same way and therefore isn’t a one size fits all solution for how to see your way out of that place.

Among the best ways to treat a substance abuse disorder is through dedicated and immersive rehab where you can truly focus on overcoming the illness.

At this point there is a whole world of options available that utilize varying methods, be they evidence-based or alternative/complementary or some combination of both. As well, there are rehab facilities that cater to specific types of addiction for even more specialized care.

All of that said, there is no “best”, finding what the best treatment for you is, is what matters.

Benefits of Long Term Treatment for Drug Addiction

Treatment isn’t achieved overnight and longer-term care is even more important if your addiction has lasted a long time and/or was on the more severe side.

NIDA points out that it’s critical to remain in treatment for an adequate period of time, adding, “the appropriate duration for an individual depends on the type and degree of the patient’s problems and needs. Research indicates that most addicted individuals need at least 3 months in treatment to significantly reduce or stop their drug use and that the best outcomes occur with longer durations of treatment”.

Time to Recover

Recovery is a process and it takes time for it to stick. Giving yourself that time is crucial.

A longer time horizon means you can dive deeper into the underlying causes of addiction on top of being able to really solidify and internalize the new coping mechanisms, thought patterns and way of life you’re cultivating.

Structure and Supervision

Structure is mission-critical. A regimented and formal program with a clear plan is a core component of long term treatment. Not only that but being supervised, particularly in those early days of treatment, helps tremendously with the elevated risk of relapse and getting through the cravings throughout

Continuous Support and Sober Peers

Being in a supportive environment works wonders for your mental state. The longer you’re in an environment like that, the better chance that your new mindset will stick and translate into a lasting recovery. Add to that the companionship and new friendships you’ll make with sober-minded people that are also in treatment means you’ll likely leave with a strong support network.

Reach Out To Inneractions Today for Help With an Addiction

Ultimately, what matters most is finding what works best for you. At Inneractions in Los Angeles, our intensive outpatient treatment is meant to fit into, and work around, your life. If you have questions or concerns about whether long-term care is right for you, reach out to us anytime.