Brief Description
Drug addiction is a complex illness characterized by intense and sometimes uncontrollable drug craving, along with compulsive drug seeking and use that persist even in the face of devastating consequences. Because drug abuse and addiction have so many dimensions and disrupt so many aspects of a person’s life, treatment is not simple. Scientific research and clinical practice demonstrate the value of behavioral counseling often accompanied by medicines to treat addiction. In addition, continuing care and attention to co-occuring medical problems are important. A variety of approaches having been tested and integrated in residential and community settings. As we look toward the future, we will harness new research results on the influence of genetics and environment on gene function and expression (i.e., epigenetics), which are heralding the development of personalized treatment interventions.
Related Resources
Therapy Manuals For Cocaine Addiction (Archives):
- Cognitive-Behavioral Approach: Treating Cocaine Addiction (Manual 1)
- Community Reinforcement Approach: Treating Cocaine Addiction (Manual 2)
- Individual Drug Counseling Approach to Treat Cocaine Addiction: The Collaborative Cocaine Treatment Study Model (Manual 3)
- Drug Counseling for Cocaine Addiction: The Collaborative Cocaine Treatment Study Model (Manual 4)
- Brief Strategic Family Therapy for Adolescent Drug Abuse (Manual 5)
Looking for Treatment?
Use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator or 1-800-662-HELP.
Featured Publication
Drugs, Brains, and Behavior - The Science of Addiction
As a result of scientific research, we know that addiction is a disease that affects both brain and behavior.