Drug addiction can greatly diminish a person's quality of life. It can cause a person to lose relationships and jobs and even damage their health. Fortunately, there is help for people who are addicted to substances. Drug addiction recovery programs can help people get sober. Here are four things that patients should know about drug addiction recovery:

1. Addiction is a chronic mental condition. 

Addiction is a complex problem that is often misunderstood. Many people, even some addicts, believe that sobriety is a matter of willpower. However, many people find themselves unable to stop using drugs and alcohol, even if they wish to become sober. This is because many drugs change the physical structure of the brain, causing it to produce less dopamine. This means that people may experience withdrawal symptoms and depression when they stop using drugs. Drug addiction recovery programs can assist people with addictions on their paths to sobriety. However, addiction is never cured. It is a chronic condition that can only be managed with the appropriate treatment. 

2. Relapse doesn't have to mean failure.

Sometimes, people on the road to drug addiction recovery use drugs again. This phenomenon is called a relapse. People who relapse often experience feelings of guilt and inadequacy. These feelings can prevent them from trying to get sober again, especially if they feel like their failure is guaranteed. Drug addiction counselors can help patients reframe relapses as minor setbacks. For many people, relapses are part of the process of becoming sober. People who experience relapses should talk to their mental health care professionals to find out if a modified approach to drug cessation is required.

3. Medication can be a helpful part of a drug addiction recovery program. 

Medication can be helpful for people who are trying to discontinue drug and alcohol use. Certain medications can reduce the effects of drugs on the body, which can make them less desirable to addicts. Other medications can dampen cravings and withdrawal symptoms. People with comorbid mental illnesses can also benefit from psychiatric medications designed to treat their underlying conditions. 

4. Counseling can be used as an individual treatment or in combination with medication. 

Many people can benefit from drug addiction counseling as they try to navigate their way toward sobriety. Addiction counseling can help people retrain brains to seek gratification in things other than substance use. Individual counseling and group counseling can benefit people in different ways, and counseling can be a great supplement to medication.