Often, the hardest steps are the first ones – admitting there’s a problem and identifying where to begin to address it. The road to finding proper, effective treatment is paved with barriers and traps. Buyer Beware (below) discusses some common red flags to watch out for when seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one.
It’s important to know what treatment model your chosen provider uses. Below is a MinnPost article that discusses Hazelden’s shift to the CRAFT model, which is an effective, empathetic approach to helping someone seek treatment. We don’t have to follow the tough-love/hit-rock-bottom models in order to effectively help those we love engage in treatment. Directly below that is a NYT article that reminds us that meeting the ones we love with empathy, love and compassion is not enabling, but can actually be life saving.
The problem is, we know what’s effective: the same program that doctors and pilots have access to. Their success rates are 84% at five years and 92% at two years respectively. We know that’s due to the use of HIMS and rigorous drug testing. From the article:
The good news is that pilots who complete a prescribed and comprehensive rehabilitation program have achieved high rates of recovery. According to professionals in the field, about 92-95 % of pilots who go through an extensive rehabilitation process – called the Human Intervention and Motivation System (HIMS) remain sober two years later.
There are five basic steps in the HIMS Program
1. Identification of the chemically dependent pilot
2. Evaluation for Chemical Dependency
3. Primary Treatment
4. Aftercare
5. Continuing Support and Monitoring (drug tests)
These programs are not available to the general public, though given their proven effectiveness, they should be. Read more: