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Therapeutic communities

These are structured environments in which individuals with drug-related problems live while undergoing rehabilitation. Such communities are often specifically designed for drug-dependent people. They operate under strict rules, are run mainly by people who have recovered from dependence, and are often geographically isolated. Therapeutic communities are also used for the management of patients with psychotic disorders and anti-social personalities. Therapeutic communities are often characterised by a combination of “reality testing” (through confrontation of the individual’s drug problem) and support for recovery from staff and peers. They are usually closely aligned with mutual help groups such as Narcotic Anonymous.

UNODC, Demand reduction, Glossary of terms