Evidence-Based Practices for Substance Use Disorders

Scientific studies have proven that evidence-based practices are effective for substance use disorders (SUD). The term “evidence-based” means research has proven its effectiveness. Top medical experts have approved these treatments as proven methods to help people with substance use and mental health issues.

Programs that follow these principles aim to provide the best treatment possible. They help people achieve long-lasting recovery and enhance their quality of life.

What Are Evidence-Based Practices?

Evidence-based practices include well-researched and confirmed methods for successfully addressing substance use and mental health problems. A treatment method must meet certain steps and criteria to be considered effective and used in clinical practice.

Evidence-based practices have a rigorous scientific foundation and well-documented efficacy.

• Developed through extensive scientific research findings and clearly explained methodologies
• Subjected to scrutiny by independent experts to ensure accuracy and reliability
• Findings are disseminated through articles in peer-reviewed journals
• Successfully meet specific objectives, such as achieving a certain duration of recovery or the relief of symptoms
• Demonstrated effectiveness across various diverse groups, yielding positive and consistent patient outcomes
• Procedures are standardized, featuring precise guidelines that are simple to implement and easy to understand
• Supported by established data and standards that confirm their ongoing effectiveness

What Is Evidence-Based Treatment for Substance Use Disorders?

Researchers base addiction treatments on research and have proven them to work. They customize treatment plans to address different aspects of substance use disorders and produce lasting positive outcomes.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) says that substance abuse treatment programs should aim to achieve these goals for participants:

• Boosting and sustaining motivation
• Acquiring new coping mechanisms
• Modifying social environments
• Altering conditioned behaviors
• Comprehending and adjusting to societal norms and expectations
• Enhancing self-efficacy

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) suggests that the best evidence-based practices for treating drug addiction often involve combining various methods to suit each person’s unique needs. This entails tackling the effects on the person, their relatives, and the community.

Many esteemed organizations in the United States dedicated themselves to enhancing addiction treatment by utilizing evidence-supported approaches, such as:

1. The National Institutes of Health— The NIH is a public health institution that leads medical research and studies on addiction and substance misuse disorders. It is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

2. The National Institute on Drug Abuse – The NIDA concentrates on researching drug misuse and addiction, aiming to foster studies that can contribute to improved prevention techniques and treatment approaches

3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – SAMHSA is committed to improving the quality and availability of mental health and substance abuse treatments in the U.S. They provide funding for different programs and champion public health efforts to combat addiction

4. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism – The NIAAA delves into the causes, consequences, therapy options, and ways to prevent alcoholism and associated issues. They focus on exploring the societal impact of alcohol on health and overall wellness.

5. The United States Food and Drug Administration – The FDA is crucial in the control of medications, encompassing those utilized for addiction treatment. Its duties involve guaranteeing the safety, effectiveness, and protection of drugs and treatments

6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – The CDC studies health issues like substance abuse disorders to improve public health care and prevent diseases like addiction

Are 12-Step Programs Evidence-Based?

Experts acknowledge 12-step facilitation therapy programs as evidence-based and effective. The most prominent 12-step programs are Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) and Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.), among others designed specifically for various substance use disorders.

Many people think 12-step programs are less effective because they are free and widely available. However, research shows that this belief is not true. An NIH study showed that people in A.A. and N.A. programs stayed sober for an average of five years or longer. More studies show that combining 12-step programs with therapy while in treatment increases the chances of attending meetings after treatment.

Project MATCH was a study on treatment outcomes. It found that people in 12-step programs have better social satisfaction, increased self-confidence, and a larger support system.

Types of Evidence-Based Practices for SUDs

Healthcare providers base drug and alcohol treatments on research evidence and tailor them to meet the needs of each person. Combining different treatment methods can improve outcomes for clients. Seeing addiction as a long-term disease is important.

Addiction is a long-term disease. Patients need continuous support and tools to manage their condition and avoid substance abuse. Using evidence-based practices for addiction helps with immediate effects and teaches skills for long-term recovery after treatment.

The most prevalent types of evidence-based practices for treating substance use disorders include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Recognizes and alters harmful thoughts and actions that lead to substance misuse
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Helps people cope with negative memories, depression, anxiety, and PTSD to overcome traumatic experiences
• Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): Utilizes motivational interviewing strategies to eliminate uncertainty and encourage proactive involvement in therapy
• Family Therapy: Helps families communicate better and understand addiction’s impact and teaches healthy ways to support each other after therapy
• Seeking Safety (S.S.): Treatment for women with PTSD and substance abuse that helps them develop effective coping strategies
• 12-step Facilitation (TFS): Helps people in recovery by setting clear goals and rules, healing from addiction, and building a supportive community
• Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT): Integrating authorized FDA drugs with behavioral treatments to tackle concurrent disorders and root problems

Evidence-Based Substance Use Disorder Treatment

At Northridge Addiction Treatment Center (NATC), we provide personalized, compassionate care for our residents. We use proven, research-based addiction treatments and therapies and always respect residents’ dignity.

We provide medical detox at our facility in a peaceful and secure setting. Our staff provides 24/7 care to assist you during the withdrawal process.

We aim to ensure that you can safely and comfortably navigate withdrawal. After detox, our caring team will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your specific needs. Our residential treatment facility maintains a close team-to-resident ratio to guarantee attentive, personalized care that prepares you for a sustainable recovery.

We recognize the importance of balancing healing work with relaxation and enjoyment. During your visit, we will provide meals that meet your dietary needs.

You will also have access to our pool and lounge areas. Your time at NATC will make you feel refreshed, empowered, and prepared to live a substance-free life focused on recovery.We make it easy and affordable to get evidence-based treatment. We will check your insurance and answer any questions you have about your treatment choices. Contact us now to speak with one of our treatment specialists today.