Science and clinical research matter to addiction treatment. Health professionals need evidence-based methods to provide effective healing. Recovering individuals and their families need scientific knowledge to navigate this difficult journey. Working with a treatment facility that adopts a science-based perspective on addiction recovery is the best way to get everything you need out of treatment. Evidence-based recovery methods are also key for public health in terms of education and prevention.

Addiction-Related Science Education Informs Public Health

It is no exaggeration that science about addiction has revolutionized the field of addiction recovery. Before the public had access to scientific knowledge about substance use disorder (SUD) in the 1930s, there were powerful myths and misconceptions about the causal factors of addiction. People with SUD have been viewed as immoral and irresponsible individuals.

Neuroscience research has revealed that addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease triggered by repeated drug exposure. Some individuals are more susceptible to this disorder because of genetics, family history, and environmental and social factors. Though initial interactions with substances may be a choice, addiction never is. This knowledge helps reduce stigmatization. Scientists also use this knowledge to develop effective prevention and treatment methods.

A public health-based approach strives to address the much wider factors that may place certain populations at risk of developing SUD. It also considers the complicated interacting factors that influence this risk. For example, community-based prevention programs are designed to educate and screen high-risk individuals.

Research on Addiction Recovery Improves Access to Treatment

The percentage of people with SUD willing to accept treatment is low. Apart from stigmatization about the condition, socioeconomic factors also play into treatment entrance percentages. Scientific research has helped legislators pass laws to protect individual’s rights to seek treatment while keeping their jobs and create programs to provide financial assistance for the cost of treatment.

The healthcare system’s understanding of individuals’ rights to recovery care has been changing. These changes strive to incorporate trauma-informed care and ways to engage untreated individuals with SUD.

Additionally, research shows that there is no one way to achieve recovery. Different individuals respond differently to different treatment modalities. As a result, more and more treatment centers are adding evidence-based, holistic treatment methods and therapies to help more individuals achieve and maintain sobriety.

Treatment centers must stay on top of scientific knowledge to improve the effectiveness of their treatment offerings. Take cases of dual diagnosis, for example. When a treatment center does not offer dual diagnosis treatment, they don’t treat the deeper causes of addiction, which often include co-occurring mental health conditions. This gap may compromise relapse prevention down the road.

Practical Advice for Individuals and Families

Becoming scientifically informed about the causes of addiction can help reduce the stigma around SUD. It is the first step toward breakthroughs. Science, research, and facts prepare individuals and families to communicate with health professionals and seek treatment openly.

Recognizing that addiction is not a moral failing may help remove judgmental attitudes. It is a powerful shift in mentality toward becoming more recovery-supportive. With this scientific knowledge, family members may rethink their loved one’s behavior through a new lens. Viewing a person’s behaviors in light of a clinically diagnosed disease can introduce compassion and empathy.

Research also informs families about the accessibility of drugs. A lack of awareness in this area may place families with youth at higher risk. Especially as the opioid epidemic continues in the U.S., families need to stay informed.

Choosing a Treatment Facility That Keeps People Informed About Research

A treatment facility may be the best resource center for obtaining knowledge and understanding research. Those considering choosing a treatment facility should go for one that values and stays on top of current addiction research. Usually, this means that they have trained and experienced medical professionals on staff.

Having certain programs in place may indicate a higher level of expertise and care. These include a range of behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), dual diagnosis, and trauma-informed care. If these programs are well-staffed by trained and licensed professionals, there is a higher chance that they understand the complex causal pathways of addiction.

Individuals can also look for integration across all programs. Because the impact of addiction extends far beyond the individual, a good treatment facility may offer programs that address the family and community aspects of addiction recovery. Check if a facility offers a good family therapy program, a well-attended alumni or aftercare program, and other transitional support. Below are a few marks of a good facility to choose from:

• Staff provides all you need to know about addiction and recovery
• Staff are open and responsive to questions regarding the science behind methods
• Staff uses evidence-based methods to educate and coach family members to resolve stigmatization and implement harm reduction

Are you looking for a treatment facility that stays connected with cutting-edge scientific research? Do you want to give your loved one a higher chance of full recovery by using evidence-based treatment? We are here to help and support you. At Laguna Shores Recovery, we customize evidence-based treatment plans for you or your loved one. Laguna Shores Recovery offers treatment plans such as detox, medication, 12-Step groups, and relationship skills coaching, all informed by scientific research. We also provide an outpatient program to support you in achieving long-term health. Schedule an appointment with us today at Laguna Shores Recovery. Our experts are here to offer full support. Call us today at 954-688-5806.