Does taking steps to control one's drug use predict entry into treatment?

Background: Treatment readiness has been shown to predict entry and success in drug treatment programs.

Objective: To examine the association between treatment readiness (defined as engaging in activities to control one's drug use) and enrolling in drug treatment.

Methods: Longitudinal data collected through face-to-face interviews (March 2004-February 2007, NIDA-funded) from 585 injectors in Baltimore were analyzed.

Results: Avoiding buying drugs and drug-related people and places were associated with entering treatment at follow-up. Also, the more activities one engaged in, the greater likelihood of entering drug treatment.

Conclusions And Scientific Significance: These findings suggest that practicing behaviors to control one's drug use may be a beneficial strategy for getting ready for treatment.