JEDDAH: A recent study involving 767 drug addicts has shown that a new program to quit the habit plays a positive role in helping to decrease relapse among users.
The study involved comparing the results of 401 addicts who took part in the Behavioral Modification Program (BMP) with the results of another 366 addicts who did not.
“The study showed successful results,” said Dr. Mahmoud Abdulrehman Mahmoud from the Arab Board of Community Medicine (ABCM). “The study showed more abstinence days with increasing program attendance.”
Mahmoud said that the program, which was held at Al-Amal Hospital in Jeddah, could not be made mandatory, as patient consent is necessary. He added that if a patient has no real interest in quitting drugs then he could not be accepted in the program to avoid negative effects on other participants.
“There should be awareness about the importance of this program in helping patients beat addiction. Families who bring addicts for treatment should encourage them to enter the program,” he added.
Mahmoud said that the stigma of being exposed as a drug-addict and fear of being penalized by the authorities stop people from getting help. “But people suffering from addiction should be made aware that there is no punishment in getting help for drug-addiction and that their identities would be kept strictly confidential. The patients would be treated with respect and kindness,” he said.
Mahmoud advised members of the public who suspect a family member of being involved in drugs should confront the person with kindness. “Blaming and shouting does not help at all,” he said. “Be understanding, and if the person is reluctant to visit the hospital try to gently encourage them at least to get advice over the telephone,” he said, adding that the hospital has a patient hotline.
The study also found that smoking cigarettes precedes substance abuse and drug addiction.
