Meth Hardest to Kick for Addicts and States

One of the country`s biggest drug problems is not only on the rise these days, but it`s also the hardest to beat. Arkansas officials are trying to tackle the problem by going through treatment programs, instead of just law enforcement. Representative Jan A. Judy, D-Fayetteville, says the standard 28-day programs the state sends most addicts to, just isn`t long enough. "It is so critical that we allow the professionals who know what they`re doing to decide how long someone needs treatment," Judy said. A study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse says 98% of meth users entering outpatient treatment have already had at least once lapse. Another study says 50-70% of recovering addicts relapse within one month of sobriety. The state`s only specialized meth treatment center says they find cognitive behavoir therapy the most effective for meth addicts. "We use some stop-thought process. Getting them to think before they pick up and use," said Janice Hamrick, Recovery Centers of Arkansas. One recovering addict says she went to treatment seven times before finally being able to kick the habit. It was a longer program that helped her in the end. "It`s very difficult to learn how to live sober, especially if that`s all you`ve known in your life," she said. Rep. Judy says the state has formed a Drug Treatment Task Force to examine how to make extended programs more available. The task force`s first meeting is scheduled for October 2.