by Ann E. Smith

Created on: November 25, 2008   Last Updated: December 02, 2008

Drug addiction is a powerful force to be reckoned with, as most addicts have lost the ability to control when they use or how much they use. Given that true addicts are on a path of self-destruction that will ultimately lead to loss of their jobs, homes and relationships, as well as insanity and perhaps death, it is crucial for real addicts to get treatment.

Unfortunately, most addicts live in denial, which is as strong of a presence in their lives as drugs. Most addicts must hit a bottom before they even want to seek help; however, sometimes interventions can be staged by family members to try to bring an addict to this place. Several options for treatment are available when an addict is ready to seek help.

NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS OR OTHER 12-STEP PROGRAMS

The book that shares the twelve steps, Alcoholics Anonymous, was first published in 1939. To this day, very little has been changed in its core material and program of action. What this means is that this book, as it was first written, has worked to help millions of alcoholics and addicts find a spiritual solution that provides a reprieve from addiction one day at a time.

Given the huge success of 12-step programs and the passionate testimonies from those who have recovered through them, Narcotics Anonymous or another 12-step drug treatment program is one of the best options for a drug addict. Each day, these programs get addicts clean, but more importantly, they keep them clean.

A 12-step program requires the addict to do the work necessary to admit the nature of his illness, surrender his powerlessness over to a Higher Power and then take actions, hence most of the steps, to sort through his muddled past and create a better way to deal with the present. For an addict to have success in this program, he must be honest, humble and willing to leave behind the addiction.

One great thing about a 12-step program is that it is a process, and an addict is led through it by another addict. This part is key because only addicts can truly understand one another.

REHABILITATION CENTERS

Amy Winehouse famously sings about rehab, and celebrities often are whisked away to deluxe treatment centers. There are numerous options for rehabilitation centers, ranging spa-like detox resorts for the wealthy like Promises or Passages, to a much more affordable and basic detox center at your local hospital.

The aims of various rehab programs vary, but one thing they have in common is to clean the drugs out of a person's system. The physical component

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