Drug abuse costs the United States billions of dollars a year- in law enforcement, crime, reduced productivity, and services for drug abusers and their dependents. Despite vast sums spent on halting the supply of illicit drugs, high levels of abuse persist. Far less money has gone into reducing the demand for drugs through effective treatment. This book, based on a national longitudinal study of drug abuse treatment, provides the most detailed analysis available of the outcomes and cost-effectiveness of publicly funded methadone, residential, and outpatient drug-free programs. The evidence shows that treatment of appropriate quality and duration does have positive results, both for drug abusers and for American society as a whole, and must be a major component of a national drug policy. In assessing the goals, capabilities, and clientele of each type of program, the authors point to the urgent need for high-quality treatment coupled with varied supportive services. In order to build more productive lives, many drug abusers require therapy for dependence on multiple drugs (including alcohol), counseling for psychological problems, and help in obtaining job training and employment. -- from Book Jacket.