What is Substance Use Treatment?

February 25, 2025

By Arch Recovery Center

Discover substance use treatment: from therapies to medications, explore the journey of recovery and find hope.

Understanding Substance Use Treatment

Substance use treatment plays a vital role in helping individuals overcome addiction and regain control of their lives. This section provides an overview of substance use disorders and explores the disparities and challenges associated with treatment.

Substance Use Disorders Overview

Substance use disorders (SUDs) refer to a range of conditions characterized by the excessive and compulsive use of substances, such as alcohol or drugs, despite the negative consequences it may have on physical, mental, and social well-being. These disorders can have a profound impact on individuals, their families, and society as a whole.

In 2017, it was estimated that 20.7 million Americans needed treatment for substance use disorders, but only 2.5 million received specialized substance use treatment [1]. This treatment gap highlights the need for increased access to effective interventions for those struggling with addiction.

Treatment Disparities and Challenges

Unfortunately, there are several disparities and challenges that hinder individuals from accessing and completing substance use treatment. A survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that as many as 90 percent of people who need drug rehab do not receive it. This treatment gap can be attributed to various factors, including financial barriers, lack of awareness, stigma, and limited availability of treatment programs.

Another challenge in substance use treatment is the completion rate. Less than 42% of individuals who enter treatment for drug and alcohol use complete it. This can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as the severity of the addiction, co-occurring mental health disorders, and the lack of support systems.

Moreover, there is a need for increased integration of substance use treatment with other systems, such as the criminal justice system and the workplace. Studies show that when incarcerated individuals receive comprehensive drug or alcohol treatment in prison and continue with care upon release, their drug use declines significantly compared to those who do not receive treatment [2]. Additionally, the workplace can serve as a significant formal institution for referring individuals to treatment through employee assistance and drug screening programs. The estimated productivity losses resulting from drug problems are substantial.

By understanding the overview of substance use disorders and recognizing the disparities and challenges in treatment, efforts can be made to address these issues and improve access to effective and comprehensive substance use treatment programs. It is crucial to bridge the treatment gap, reduce stigma, and provide support to individuals and their families on their journey to recovery.

Therapeutic Approaches for Addiction

When it comes to addiction treatment, various therapeutic approaches have proven effective in helping individuals overcome substance use disorders. These approaches address the complex nature of addiction and provide individuals with the tools and skills necessary for recovery. Three commonly utilized therapeutic approaches for addiction are behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and contingency management.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is one of the most commonly utilized types of treatment for addiction. It involves working with a therapist to identify and modify self-destructive behaviors associated with substance use. By focusing on behavioral patterns and triggers, individuals can develop healthier coping mechanisms and strategies to overcome cravings and avoid relapse.

The goal of behavioral therapy is to help individuals understand the underlying reasons behind their addictive behaviors and develop new, healthier habits. This therapy approach may involve various techniques, such as:

Motivational interviewing: This technique aims to enhance an individual's motivation to change by exploring their goals and values, resolving ambivalence, and building confidence in their ability to make positive changes.
Contingency management: This approach uses positive reinforcement to encourage individuals to abstain from substance use. Tangible rewards, such as vouchers or cash prizes, may be utilized to reinforce abstinence and positive behaviors.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized therapeutic approach that has shown lasting positive impacts on individuals with substance use disorders. CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies.

During CBT sessions, individuals work with a therapist to challenge and reframe distorted beliefs and attitudes related to substance use. By recognizing and modifying negative thought patterns, individuals can develop more positive and adaptive behaviors. The skills learned in CBT tend to "stick" beyond treatment completion, providing individuals with long-term tools for relapse prevention and maintaining sobriety.

Contingency Management

Contingency management is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that has been effective in treating various substance use disorders. This approach utilizes positive reinforcement to encourage individuals to abstain from substance use and engage in positive behaviors.

With contingency management, individuals receive tangible rewards, such as vouchers or cash prizes, for meeting predetermined treatment goals, such as negative drug tests or attendance at therapy sessions. By providing immediate rewards for positive behaviors, contingency management helps reinforce abstinence and encourages individuals to make healthier choices. This approach has been successful in treating substance use disorders involving alcohol, stimulants, opioids, and marijuana.

Therapeutic approaches like behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and contingency management are valuable tools in the journey of addiction treatment. These approaches address the unique needs of individuals with substance use disorders and provide them with the support and strategies necessary for lasting recovery. By incorporating these evidence-based therapies into treatment programs, individuals can increase their chances of overcoming addiction and maintaining a healthier, substance-free life.

Medications in Addiction Treatment

In the realm of addiction treatment, medications play a vital role in conjunction with counseling and behavioral therapies. This combination of approaches is known as a "whole-patient" approach, which has shown success in the treatment of substance use disorders and sustaining recovery. Medications are approved by the FDA and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, contributing to the overall effectiveness of treatment.

Role of Medications

Medications used in addiction treatment serve various purposes, including reducing cravings and managing withdrawal symptoms. They are particularly useful in the treatment of opioids, alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other sedatives. By targeting the specific mechanisms of addiction, these medications help normalize brain chemistry, block euphoric effects, and relieve physiological cravings without the negative effects associated with substance use. Additionally, medications such as naloxone and nalmefene are utilized to prevent opioid overdoses by reversing the toxic effects of the overdose.

Medications for Different Substance Use Disorders

The FDA has approved several medications for the treatment of substance use disorders. Let's explore some of the common medications used for alcohol use disorders (AUD) and opioid use disorders (OUD):

Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)

Acamprosate: This medication helps individuals with AUD by reducing alcohol cravings and promoting abstinence.
Disulfiram: Disulfiram creates an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, acting as a deterrent to prevent relapse.
Naltrexone: Naltrexone blocks the euphoric effects of alcohol and reduces the urge to drink.

Opioid Use Disorders (OUD)

Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine helps relieve withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioids, improving overall treatment outcomes.
Methadone: Methadone is used to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, helping individuals with OUD stabilize their lives.
Naltrexone: Naltrexone blocks the effects of opioids and reduces the desire to use them.

It's important to note that these medications should be used under the guidance of healthcare professionals who specialize in addiction treatment. The specific medication and dosage will depend on individual needs and the severity of the substance use disorder. By integrating medications into a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals have a better chance of successfully overcoming addiction and maintaining long-term recovery.

For more information on different treatment programs and settings, including inpatient and outpatient options, as well as specialized programs, continue reading the respective sections in our article.

Statistics and Success Rates

When it comes to addiction treatment, understanding the statistics and success rates can provide valuable insights into the challenges and outcomes associated with substance use treatment. Let's explore two important aspects: treatment utilization rates and relapse and completion rates.

Treatment Utilization Rates

In 2017, it was estimated that 20.7 million Americans needed treatment for substance use disorders, but only 2.5 million received specialized substance use treatment. This indicates a significant treatment gap, with a large number of individuals who require help not accessing the necessary services.

A survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that as many as 90 percent of people who need drug rehab do not receive it [2]. Barriers such as financial constraints, lack of awareness, and social factors contribute to the underutilization of addiction treatment services. It is crucial to address these barriers and improve access to treatment for those in need.

Relapse and Completion Rates

Relapse rates for drug and alcohol use resemble those of other chronic diseases, with an estimated 40-60% of individuals relapsing while in recovery. Addiction is a complex condition, and relapse can be a part of the recovery process. It is important to view relapse not as a failure, but as an opportunity for further growth and learning.

Less than 42% of the individuals who enter treatment for drug and alcohol use complete it. Treatment completion rates can be influenced by various factors, including the severity of the addiction, the type and duration of treatment, and the individual's commitment to the recovery process. It is essential to provide ongoing support and resources to individuals to increase their chances of successfully completing treatment.

It is worth noting that studies show that when incarcerated individuals receive comprehensive drug or alcohol treatment in prison and then follow up with continued care upon their release, their drug use declines by 50-70% compared to individuals who do not receive treatment [2]. This highlights the importance of providing treatment and support not only within treatment facilities but also during the transition back into the community.

Understanding these statistics and success rates can help shape the development and improvement of addiction treatment programs. By addressing the treatment gap and providing comprehensive, individualized care, we can enhance the chances of successful outcomes for individuals seeking help for substance use disorders.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Before embarking on the journey of substance use treatment, individuals must undergo a thorough assessment and diagnosis process. This step is crucial in determining the extent of substance abuse and formulating an appropriate treatment plan. In this section, we will explore the two key components of this process: substance abuse assessment and diagnosing substance use disorders.

Substance Abuse Assessment

Substance abuse assessment plays a vital role in identifying individuals with potential substance abuse problems and determining the most suitable intervention strategies. This assessment requires specialized skills and takes a significant amount of time, ranging from 90 minutes to 2 hours [5]. In many cases, primary care clinicians refer patients suspected of having a substance abuse problem to specialists for assessment and treatment.

During the assessment, healthcare professionals investigate patients with positive screening results indicating likely substance abuse and those whose responses to brief assessments suggest that compulsion to use, impaired control, or a lack of social support may render brief intervention ineffective. The goal is to gather comprehensive information about the individual's substance use patterns, physical and mental health, social environment, and readiness for change.

It is recommended that substance abuse assessments be conducted by professionals with specific training in the field. Referring patients to experienced substance abuse specialists for intensive assessment is often the best course of action. However, if referral is not possible, physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice nurses can perform assessments after receiving training in empathic motivational interviewing [5].

Diagnosing Substance Use Disorders

Diagnosing a substance use disorder requires a thorough evaluation by a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a licensed alcohol and drug counselor. These professionals utilize criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, to make an accurate diagnosis.

The DSM-5 criteria consider factors such as the frequency and intensity of substance use, the presence of withdrawal symptoms, impaired control, and the impact of substance use on an individual's daily life. It is important to note that there is no single diagnostic test for addiction, but blood, urine, or other lab tests may be used to assess drug use and monitor treatment and recovery progress.

Through a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis process, healthcare professionals can gain a deeper understanding of the individual's substance abuse issues and tailor an effective treatment plan. This personalized approach increases the likelihood of successful outcomes and helps individuals on their journey from darkness to light.

Treatment Programs and Settings

When it comes to addiction treatment, individuals have various options to consider based on the severity of their substance use disorder and their personal needs. Two primary treatment settings to explore are inpatient and outpatient treatment. Additionally, specialized treatment programs are available to cater to the unique requirements of specific populations.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment programs offer flexibility and allow individuals to receive treatment while continuing to live at home. These programs are usually of low to medium intensity, with clients attending no more than nine hours of treatment per week at a specialty facility. Outpatient treatment is ideal for individuals with less severe substance use disorders who have a strong support system at home and can manage their day-to-day responsibilities while receiving treatment.

In outpatient treatment, counseling, therapy, and other forms of support are provided on an individual or group basis. Many programs offer services in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate individuals' school or work schedules. Outpatient treatment allows individuals to apply the skills they learn in treatment to their daily lives in real-time.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

For individuals requiring a higher level of care than traditional outpatient treatment, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are available. IOPs involve medium to high intensity, with clients attending 10-20 hours of treatment per week at a specialty facility while still living at home. IOPs are suitable for individuals with accompanying medical or psychological issues who need multiple services or have not been successful in outpatient treatment.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) offer a structured and intensive treatment experience for individuals who require more support than outpatient or IOPs can provide. In PHPs, clients attend treatment for four to eight hours a day, typically five days a week (20 or more hours per week), while continuing to live at home [7]. PHPs are especially beneficial for individuals with co-occurring mental illness and those who need a more intensive level of care.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment, also known as residential treatment, is a high-intensity option provided in specialty units of hospitals or medical clinics. It is typically reserved for individuals with serious medical conditions or mental disorders, or those requiring medically supervised detoxification. Inpatient treatment provides a structured environment where individuals receive around-the-clock care and support.

Inpatient programs offer a comprehensive range of services, including medical detoxification, counseling, therapy, group support, and holistic treatments. The length of stay in an inpatient program varies depending on the individual's needs and progress.

Specialized Treatment Programs

Specialized treatment programs have been developed to meet the specific needs of various populations. These programs aim to address the unique challenges faced by individuals such as women, pregnant and postpartum women, adolescents, elderly persons, members of minority groups, public inebriates or homeless persons, drinking drivers, and children of alcoholics.

Specialized treatment programs can be offered in both residential and ambulatory care settings, employing various treatment approaches tailored to the specific needs of each population. These programs provide culturally sensitive care and address the unique factors that may contribute to substance use disorders within these populations.

When considering treatment options, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist to determine the most appropriate program and setting based on individual needs and circumstances. This ensures that individuals receive the most effective and tailored treatment for their substance use disorder.