- 1). Make certain that family supervision over the young central to the prevention process. At all levels of society-, school- and family-based programs on drug education are essential. Be certain that all programs of prevention should be long term, and be tailored to the nature of the community and family issues, as well as the risk factors present in any society.
- 2). Stress the following issues: self control, awareness of one's emotions and moods, problem solving at the social level, academic support and peer relationships. These are the variables that government agencies, such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse stress in their approach to prevention.
- 3). Approach all facets of drug abuse as a single whole, not just the addiction itself, but the social and psychological factors that underlie such destructive behaviors as stressed by the NIDA. This includes a commitment of constant monitoring of progress and the appropriateness of a specific treatment plan.
- 4). Use certain specialized medications as important to the recovery process. Most drugs now have a substitute drug that can reduce cravings, yet leave the addict functional. This is especially true for opiate addictions, smoking and alcoholism.
- 5). Also make certain that cognitive and behavioral approaches are used along with medication. Risk factors such as peer groups and use of free time need to be eliminated, and rewards built in to the recovery process. The motivation must be present for the addict to stay on the proper cognitive path, and see the risk factors that might lead to recidivism. The purpose here is for the addict to see and recognize risky behaviors and beliefs.
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