Recovery is Probable: How Modern Medicine is Rewriting the Addiction Story

LANCASTER – Millions of Americans have overcome substance use disorders, proving that recovery is achievable with proper support. Kaiser Permanente Antelope Valley Addiction Medicine Specialist, Dr. Mitika Kanabar, shares why she believes recovery is not only possible, but probable with the right treatment approach.

Understanding Addiction as a Medical Condition

“Addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment and an individual’s life experiences,” explains Dr. Kanabar. “People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.”

Dr. Kanabar emphasizes that this medical understanding is crucial for effective treatment. “Prevention efforts and treatment approaches for addiction are generally as successful as those for other chronic diseases,” she says. “When we treat addiction as the medical condition it is, we can focus on evidence-based treatments that actually work.”

Modern Treatment Approaches

Treatment for substance use disorders has evolved significantly in recent years. “We now have medications that can help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings and support long-term recovery,” Dr. Kanabar explains. “Combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, these treatments give people the best chance at sustained recovery.”

She notes that treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. “Every person's journey with addiction is different, so their recovery plan needs to be individualized,” Dr. Kanabar stresses. “At Kaiser Permanente, we work with patients to find the combination of treatments that works best for their specific situation.”

Treatment options may include:

• Medication-assisted treatment.

• Individual and group counseling.

• Intensive outpatient programs.

• Peer support services like Smart Recovery.

• Family therapy and education.

• Community support groups such as Al-Anon for family members.

Breaking Down Barriers to Care

“Stigma remains one of the biggest obstacles to people seeking treatment,” says Dr. Kanabar. “People worry about judgment from healthcare providers, employers or family members,” she notes. “But seeking help for addiction takes tremendous courage and should be met with compassion and support.”

Dr. Kanabar encourages anyone struggling with substance use to reach out for help, regardless of how many times they may have tried before. “Recovery often involves multiple attempts, and that's completely normal,” she explained. “Each time someone seeks treatment, they're learning more about what works for them.”

Dr. Kanabar also stressed the importance of family members and friends. “Recovery affects the whole family,” she said. “Support from loved ones can make a huge difference, but it’s important that family members also get the support and education they need.”

Take Action:

• Reach out for help if you're struggling with substance use.

• Contact your primary care doctor to discuss treatment options.

• Ask about Kaiser Permanente's addiction medicine services.

• Support family members or friends who are seeking recovery.

• Learn about substance use disorders to reduce stigma.

To learn more about addiction medicine services or to schedule an appointment, visit kp.org or members can call 1-833-574-2273.

For immediate support, the public may call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

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