How to Solve the Problem of Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is rife across all strata of modern society. Forty-nine percent of US college students binge drink or abuse drugs, and 85 percent of the prison population have had alcohol or substance abuse problems, according to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse. Substance abuse can be overcome. Many different approaches may be taken.

Instructions

• 1

  Confront the person with the substance abuse problem in a calm and rational manner. Sometimes the person may not be aware of a problem. The best way to make the person see the problem is by citing specific examples of situations where a substance has led to a negative outcome. Continually remind the person of your support and love as he is likely to become defensive or angry. It may be necessary to gather a group of the person's closest friends or family members. Allow each person to talk in turn about how the substance abuse has negatively affected them. This is known as an "intervention" and can be an emotional, yet effective way of getting the person to realize the extent of the problem.

• 2

  Have the person with the problem talk to someone neutral, such as a counselor. Perhaps it is you with the problem and you have recognized it, but feel you can't talk to family or friends. Confiding in a trained and qualified counselor will hopefully give some release and relief as you voice concerns and move forward. Many therapists use a technique called cognitive behavior therapy, recognized as having a high rate of success with addictive patterns of behavior. This sort of therapy examines thought processes and habits pertaining to the addiction. With help from a therapist it may be possible to discover new thought processes and form new, healthier habits.

• 3

  Seek help from a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. The programs are based on a 12-step system. Some people find the support they gain from a group valuable in solving the problem of substance abuse. Many people find their own approach to sobriety. There are other approaches besides 12-step programs, research and consider practical lifestyle changes.

• 4

  Enroll the person with the substance abuse problem into a rehabilitation or detoxification program. These essentially involve living at a facility, where the person will receive therapy, support, and counseling from trained professionals. Detoxification is usually reserved for more serious cases where pharmaceutical drugs may be required to safely wean the person off whatever substance has caused the problem. Both detox and rehab programs watch the keep the person under constant supervision with limited freedom until they are rehabilitated or completely detoxed. These sorts of programs can be expensive.