How to Know if Treatment is Working
Drug and alcohol treatment programs are not just trying to stop a person from using drugs. Their goals are loftier, and more focused on long-term sustainability. They include:
- Elimination of drug/alcohol misuse
- Desire for and appreciation of healthy lifestyle
- Learn skills to participate in recovery
- Learn skills to avoid relapse
- Put new skills into practice in supportive environment
- Ensuring a supportive environment
When treatment is working, you may see:
- Clean urinalysis
- Resolve legal problems
- Reconnect with family/friends
- Positive social network
- Not isolate
- Healthy recreation
- Improved health
- Improved parenting and coping skills
- Productive member of society
When treatment may need to be stepped up or down, you may notice:
- Failure to comply with tx plan (i.e., non-participation)
- Continued use
- Continued legal issues
- Health problems related to use
- Family discord and stress
- No healthy social networks
- Continuing breaking of rules/illegal behavior
