No one ever believes when they start using drugs or alcohol they will they end up dependent on them. Most people think they can quit on their own at any time--until they try. After several failed attempts, many addicts and alcoholics finally realize they can't stop by themselves. They need help.

In addition to helping individuals stop using, the long-term goal of addiction treatment is to teach people how to live without alcohol and drugs. Some addiction treatment centers can also medically withdraw them from the alcohol and/or drugs. Whether or not treatment is successful depends mostly on the willingness of the individual. If they're seeking help only to please others--a spouse, for example--the likelihood of permanent recovery is lower than if they have made the decision on their own.

There are several different types of addiction treatment programs, and the right choice varies according to the individual. For example, one person may need medication prescribed by an addiction specialist, while another will have to be hospitalized in order to medically detox from the drugs and alcohol. On the other hand, some people decide to check in to a rehab center, where they are required to follow a strict treatment plan. Still, many other addicts and alcoholics choose only to attend out-patient treatment which includes, a 12-step recovery program such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

The length of treatment also varies depending on the program or plan. Generally, residential treatment lasts between 30 to 90 days. However, higher success rates have been documented among individuals who remain in treatment centers for longer periods. For medical treatment such as methadone maintenance, 12 months of treatment is the minimum. For many, the key to successful treatment--the first time--is a matter of choosing the program that fits their needs.

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