Drug Treatment - Where To Go For Help

God grant me the SERENITY to accept the things I cannot change, the COURAGE to change the things I can, and the WISDOM to know the difference.

—Invocation used in most Twelve Step programs

Many organizations provide assistance for addicts, their families, and friends. Most of the self-help groups are based on the Twelve Step program of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). While AA is a support group for problem drinkers, Al-Anon/Alateen is for friends and families of alcoholics. Families Anonymous provides support for family members and friends concerned about a loved one's problems with drugs and/or alcohol. Other organizations include Adult Children of Alcoholics, Cocaine Anonymous, and Narcotics Anonymous. For an addict, many of these organizations can provide immediate help. For families and friends, they can provide knowledge, under-standing, and support. For contact information for some of these organizations, see the Important Names and Addresses section at the back of this volume.

A chief barrier to seeking help for many persons habitually taking drugs is the recognition that they need help. Users often underestimate the problem and assume that they can manage without seeking professional assistance. Another barrier is the cost of drug abuse treatment, which is not always covered by a person's health insurance. Recognition of these problems has led to new programs both to help individuals recognize the need for help and to fund it.