Dear Stat-man,

First, a couple of definitions and distinctions: "abuse," according to the American Psychiatric Association, describes a pattern of use that causes impairment of social or occupational functioning. Compare that to "dependence," characterized by either tolerance (a need for increasing amounts of a drug, over time, to achieve the same effect) or withdrawal symptoms. "Addiction," the most serious form of drug abuse, is defined by compulsive use, a need to increase dosage over time, and symptoms of tolerance and withdrawal.

Recovery rates from all these forms of alcohol and drug abuse follow a model of treatment outcomes applicable to most psychologically-based disorders: one-third recover fully; one-third cyclically stop their unhealthy behavior and return to it again; and one-third do not recover. A 1983 Harvard study published in "The Natural History of Alcoholism" by George Vallant, found a high recovery rate for people who abstained from alcohol use for more than five years, and a 40% relapse rate for those who had stopped drinking for up to two years.

A person's motivations to seek and follow-through with treatment for drug abuse play a major role in one's degree of recovery. Some people treat themselves, ceasing drug use because of a family crisis or health problem that they tie directly to their drug use. Others find professional help from psychotherapists, treatment centers and support groups. The level of social support from relatives, friends and colleagues can have great bearing on the success of a person's recovery as well. Even WITH strong motivation, psychological and physical drug dependence, as well as environmental factors like social pressures to use drugs, are powerful forces working against recovery.

If you are interested in recent research findings regarding success rates of specific treatment methods, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. will provide statistical information and resources related to drug abuse recovery by mail. You can write to them at:

20 Exchange Place, Suite 2902

New York, NY 10005

Phone: 212.269.7797

Fax: 212.269.7510

If you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol or drugs, call and make an appointment with Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) at x4-2468 to talk with a substance use expert. (If you need to speak with someone right away, walk in any Monday through Friday from 1 - 2 PM.) Off-campus, you can contact Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) for referrals to drug treatment and people to talk with in your own community.