Like treatment for other chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma or heart disease therapy for drug addiction is not a cure. Addiction can be curable and managed. Addiction recovery is possible, but people who have been through it are vulnerable to relapse over the course of their lives. Research has shown that people who combine addiction treatment with behavioural therapy have the best chance at recovery. Long-term recovery is possible with treatment options that are tailored to each individual's drug usage patterns and co-occurring social, mental, or physical issues.
Another good news is the possibility of avoiding drug addiction and using drugs. NIDA-funded research shows that prevention programmes, including schools, families, communities, and media, can help to reduce or prevent drug abuse and addiction. Even though personal and cultural factors influence drug usage patterns, youth who perceive drug use as dangerous tend to decrease their drug use. It is important to educate and reach out to individuals about the possible negative consequences of drug usage. Parents, teachers, and health-care professionals all play an important role in teaching children how to avoid drug addiction and abuse.
The following is important: Drug addiction refers to a chronic condition that involves obsessive drug searching and use.
Brain alterations resulting from drug addiction test an addict's ability to control their behavior and reduce their tolerance for acute drug cravings. This is why drug addiction is a chronic illness.