For the addict and their families, it may seem like there is little to no hope. Drug addiction is hard on the individual and their entire family. When a family is deep in the middle of dealing with an addicted family member, it may seem as if there is no light at the end of the tunnel. But, with the right addiction treatment program, there is hope.
Just as there are many different types of addiction, so should there be many different types of addiction treatment. Each addiction experience is unique, and treatment programs should be custom-tailored to fit the needs of each individual.

The decision to enter an addiction treatment center should not be handled lightly. The opinions and first-hand experiences of others might be taken into consideration, but it is ultimately a decision that must be made by the addict and his or her family. Several facilities should be visited for interviews and, ideally, a tour. Research the options and ask questions of each facility visited, like whether they offer specialized treatment of co-occurring disorders.
In an outpatient facility, recovering addicts are free to go home following treatment each day. This treatment regimen tends to be lighter than other facilities, involving primarily therapy and group meetings. This is an ideal option for those who cannot step away from their daily obligations at home, work, or school.
This type of facility offers overnight care, typically for a term of two weeks up to six months. Inpatient facilities can take a medical, clinical-style approach or a more relaxing, resort-like approach to inpatient treatment. Either way, a strict daily schedule is typically followed to provide some structure in the lives of recovering addicts and to attempt some distraction from the temptation to relapse.
This type of residential addiction treatment can last up to a year or even longer. It is common with more severe addictions, involving “harder” drugs like heroin. As with inpatient facilities, long-term care centers can provide a clinical or resort-style approach to treatment.
Both inpatient and long-term care facilities will first focus on detoxification. Typically performed under medical supervision with the assistance of a sauna or harmless medication, detox rids addicts’ bodies of the harmful toxins built up during the drug abuse. The body will naturally shed these toxins through sweat and other bodily fluids. Addiction treatment is the best solution.