Someone who wishes to receive treatment for drug abuse or dependence should see a doctor. Family members should accompany the person with a drug abuse problem to the doctor's appointment to discuss the issue.
Complications from drug abuse need medical evaluation.
A person with an acute drug overdose should be brought to a hospital's emergency department immediately. The emergency department is a frequent place for people who suffer from drug dependence to seek medical care. People who are behavior problems may come to the attention of the Emergency Medical Services system or police. These public service professionals can assist in bringing the person to the hospital.
Anyone with an alteration of consciousness needs immediate medical evaluation. Such a person may not recognize how ill he or she is, or may be a danger to himself or herself or to others. A hallucinating person, for example, may think he can fly and jump off a building killing himself, as well as a person below. Violent behavior is also possible.
Anyone with abnormal vital signs, severe pain, or any severe or sudden onset of problems needs immediate care.
If a drug has been ingested inappropriately, contact a local chapter of the American Association of Poison Control Centers. Visiting an emergency department is usually appropriate to obtain proper treatment.
Home care is not appropriate if the drug of abuse cannot be identified. People who have ingested unknown drugs should be taken to the emergency department. People with severe symptoms should not be treated at home. They should be taken directly to the emergency department.
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The initial evaluation by a doctor is just the first step in battling drug abuse. Follow-through in drug avoidance is essential to successful treatment.
It will generally be necessary to discharge the person from the emergency department into the care of a sober adult. Activities that require skill and judgment, such as driving, high-speed activities (bicycling, skateboarding), operating machinery, and swimming (even bathtub use) should not be undertaken until all the effects of the drug have worn off.
Joining support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous can be intimidating, but such groups are very helpful for some people. A social worker at the hospital can advise on local resources available.
Prevention involves avoiding places frequented by drug abusers and not associating with known drug abusers. Knowledge about drug use and abuse is key to preventing abuse in the first place and avoiding relapse among those who are recovering.
Treatment of drug dependence and abuse requires a long-term outlook. A person who has abused drugs in the past must be constantly vigilant never to use them again. Relapses are common. Family and friends must provide support with a caring attitude during these relapses.