Drug abuse or substance abuse is a widespread issue. Although popular culture
has created certain stereotypes for the drug abuser, all are susceptible to drug
addiction. The intensity of addiction, the type of substance abused and the
effects may vary based on the genetic makeup of the individual among other
environmental factors.

 It is heartening to note that drug addiction is
treatable. This treatment process is also called drug rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation aims to integrate the person back into society to become a
productive member. The process may involve avoiding the drug, learning new
stress management skills, other behavioral treatments but often involves the use
of specific medications.

Another prominent component of drug rehabilitation programs is the use of a
physical location with a controlled environment where the patient is taught life
skills while undergoing treatment.

Treatment centers can be private or government operated. Popular celebrities
often make the news when they go into treatment but there were over 1.7 million
admissions to treatment centers in 2003 of which 23% are for alcohol abuse, 15%
for marijuana and 14% for heroin.

The largest age group entering drug rehab programs is 36 to 40 years old but
all age groups have needed treatment. It is a fact that half of US teenagers try
marijuana before finishing high school. It can affect school performance and
sports adversely. Long term use can lead to addiction. There are a few treatment
programs geared specifically for marijuana users.

Rehab involves counseling and group therapy. The ultimate goal of teen drug
rehab programs is to allow the teenager to be abstinent from drugs. They help
the person become productive and overcome the health effects of the drug as well
as the withdrawal symptoms.

Other drug rehabilitation programs are geared for specific drugs. For example
methadone maintenance programs distribute a synthetic opiate, methadone to
prevent the physiological effects of craving while avoiding euphoria in patients
who have heroin addiction. Some other programs are drug free and focus on
counseling and regular clinic visits.