Addiction is one of the most common and devastating diseases in the United States. Drug abuse and addiction have negative consequences for individuals and for society. Assessments of the total overall costs of substance abuse in the United States, to include productivity, health, and crime related costs exceed $600 billion annually. Drug addiction is a brain-related disease that requires a treatment plan that addresses the problem of addiction effectively and sustainably. If left untreated, the destructive effects of drug addiction eventually damage every aspect of the addict's life. The goal of a treatment plan is to help the addict be able to live a life free of drug abuse and integrate with family and society in a healthy and productive …show more content…
NA was established in 1953 in Sun Valley, California and its’ membership is open to all drug addicts, regardless of what particular drug is used. It offers recovery from the effects of addiction through working a twelve-step program by attending group meetings. “Jimmy K.” saw that substance abuse was only a symptom of a deeper issue in which, the substance is used to gain a temporary relief from. One of the keys to NA’s success is the therapeutic value of addicts working with other addicts. Participants disclose their achievements and challenges in overcoming active addiction and staying drug-free, as well as, have a productive life through the application of the principles contained within the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of …show more content…
I was greeted by warm smiles and friendly faces as I entered the building. I quickly noticed names of various people and there clean date in a rainbow of colors painted wall. Some of dates were as far back as the 80’s and that immediately let me know that the program works if the person is willing to try it. The meeting began with the chair person reading the rules and regulations on how the session will be conducted. The members were culturally diverse with a range of early twenties to the late fifties in age. There was a total of about sixteen people in attendance. An estimation of socioeconomics would be lower to middle class citizens. Members were asked to read certain passages from the Twelve Traditions of NA. It was a group effort and certain words are repeated during the verse reading. To me it seemed like all the members had them memorized and had a vast knowledge of the Twelve Step