You might be wondering just how well-documented the lasting effects of traditional treatment options are. Is rehab really worth the cost?
Like other chronic health conditions, substance use disorders can be effectively treated and kept in remission. Entering into a multi-staged treatment program allows individuals the opportunity to counteract the devastating effects of addiction and regain control of their lives. The chronic nature of addiction means that relapse is a possibility, especially if a person fails to keep up with their personal aftercare plan following the conclusion of treatment.
Addiction is different from other chronic health conditions like asthma and diabetes in the sense that it concerns behavioral and emotional components. In order for addiction to be kept in remission long-term behavioral changes and ongoing emotional regulation are necessary. If a person returns to drug or alcohol use after a prolonged period of sobriety, it is easy to deem treatment an out-and-out failure.
However, those who relapse following treatment have been shown to return to sobriety in a much shorter period of time than those who never received any degree of clinical or therapeutic care.
Relapse and Addiction Recovery
The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports between 40 and 60 percent of individuals who recieve treatment for drug addiction will relapse (return to drug use) at least once. Comparitively, between 50 and 70 percent of individuals with hypertension or asthma will experience a relapse following treatment.
NIDA also states, “Every dollar invested in addiction treatment programs yields a return of between $4 and $7 in reduced drug-related crime, criminal justice costs, and theft. When savings related to healthcare are included, total savings can exceed costs by a ratio of 12 to 1. Major savings to the individual and to society also stem from fewer interpersonal conflicts; greater workplace productivity; and fewer drug-related accidents, including overdoses and deaths.”
While relapse can occur, the benefit of attending addiction treatment always outweighs the cost. If you or your loved one experiences a return to substance use following the conclusion of treatment, you will know exactly which steps to take to ensure the relapse is short-lived.
Statistical Evidence of Treatment Efficacy
The 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports, “Among people aged 12 or older, 1 percent (or 2.7 million people) received substance use treatment at a specialty facility in the past year. Among the 38.4 million people aged 12 or older in 2020 with an SUD in the past year who did not receive substance use treatment at a specialty facility, 97.5 percent (or 37.5 million people) did not feel they needed treatment.”
Addiction is a complex condition — one that affects the physical chemistry of the brain in a variety of ways. As addiction worsens over time, the ability of the afflicted individual to make rational, self-serving decisions becomes more and more compromised. Many people who struggle with addiction and insist treatment is not necessary would actually benefit immensely from a multi-staged program of recovery.
If you are on the fence about whether or not addiction treatment is right for you, contact us directly. We look forward to speaking with you soon and answering any additional questions you might have.
Our attention to individualized care and therapy programs can be the difference between a lifetime of challenges or a full recovery. Take the first step toward a better, more fulfilling future. Speak with one of our Treatments Advisors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 1-877-508-2278.
