Epidemiology of Inhalant Abuse - Archives - National Institute on ...

y its nature, is focused on problems and obstacles. Yet, when
confronted with a solvent-abusing adolescent with multiple problems, it
is essential to find and build on the existing strengths. These strengths
may be family support, caring for friends, artistic skills, or writing or
musical ability. It sometimes is helpful to reframe negative behavior into
a strength so that there are blocks on which to build other strengths. It is
clear that those willing to provide treatment <strong>of</strong> solvent abusers must be
prepared to work with individuals who have a greater breadth and depth
<strong>of</strong> personal and social problems. Providers must acknowledge that
volatile solvent-abusing patients are not hopeless, although it is important
to keep treatment expectations realistic. Inpatient treatment must include
an extended period <strong>of</strong> detoxification or treatment readiness before
initiating specific therapeutic interventions. In fact, effective treatment
can be expected to be long term, possibly even up to 2 years. Certainly
this sounds like an expensive endeavor; however, the cost <strong>of</strong> volatile
solvent abuse treatment must be weighed against further costs for this
population and the public, including incarceration, medical expenses, and
welfare support (Jumper-Thurman and Beauvais 1992).
CONCLUSION
What is presented here is only a beginning. There are a multitude <strong>of</strong>
questions that need to be answered, and extensive and specific treatment
protocols need to be developed. Other research directions include:
1. Ethnographic studies <strong>of</strong> users to identify patterns <strong>of</strong> use and the
factors related to the transition to chronic and solitary use;
2. Identification and scientific study <strong>of</strong> certain therapeutic approaches
that might be effective and appropriate for volatile solvent abusers;
3. A cost-benefit analysis <strong>of</strong> volatile solvent treatment; and
4. Additional research on types <strong>of</strong> interventions that can be used to treat
solvent abusers effectively in an outpatient setting.
It is imperative to support additional research and further collaboration
with service providers for development <strong>of</strong> successful treatment strategies
for this unique population.
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