by Shauna Kirk

Created on: January 29, 2007   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

This can be a very broad article, as there are many types of addictions and the quest for treatment would ultimately depend on the type of addiction. Addiction in itself is defined (by Encarta) as a state of psychological and physiological dependence on a substance liable to have a damaging effect.

Addictions to name a few can be to alcohol, cigarettes, caffeine, prescription drugs, illicit drugs, and the list goes on. The definition of addiction should be an insight as to the nature of addiction.

An addiction will grip an addict's life sometimes more often than not, to the point that nothing else matters. Not in the case of caffeine you say? How about those who can't function until they've at least had that first cup of coffee? But it doesn't have a damaging effect? It does if they suffer from high blood pressure or another physical ailment and in spite of their physicians recommendations to stop; they can not or will not. Caffeine is considered a "minor" addiction, this control that caffeine can have is used to demonstrate the possible control that mind alternating drugs such as methamphetamine or heroin can have.

The journey to find appropriate treatment can be quite discouraging. With the availability of the World Wide Web, it has become easier, but that also can be more difficult. The first thing to keep in mind would be that an addiction usually requires a treatment program designed specifically to the substance of the addiction. If the addict also has mental problems, you should consider a treatment facility that offers a dual diagnosis treatment plan.

Keep in mind that there are detoxification (detox) centers which some programs will require the addicted to be dry (not currently using). Then there are short term facilities and then there are long term programs.

If you are the addicted person, you have made the first step in recognizing that there is a problem. Do not give up. Find someone who you can confide in and recruit their assistance in helping you to locate the appropriate facilities. Suggested people would be a preacher at a nearby church, a police officer, a hospital.

If you are the "recruited", http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov will be a good place to begin your search. Keep a piece of paper and a writing instrument with you when you make your calls. Remember, you are gathering the information only. The step that will provide the most benefit to the addict is for the addict to make the final calls and arrangements. Once someone has come to you for assistance and you have made the decision to assist, time is of the essence. Make yourself available in offering the list of facilities you have gathered, the use of your phone and transportation to the facility.

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