The Matrix Model is a framework for engaging stimulant abusers of methamphetamine and cocaine in treatment and helping patients achieve abstinence. Patients learn about issues critical to addiction and relapse, receive direction and support from a trained therapist, become familiar with self help programs under go urine testing to monitor drug use. The therapist functions simultaneously as teacher and coach, fostering a positive, encouraging relationship with the patient and using that relationship to reinforce positive behavior change. The interaction between the therapist and the patient is authentic and direct but not confrontational or parental. Therapists conduct treatment sessions in a way that promotes the self esteem, dignity and self worth of the patient. A positive relationship between patient and therapist is critical to patient retention. Treatment materials draw heavily on other tested treatment approaches and include elements of relapse prevention, family and group therapies, drug education and self help participation. Detailed treatment manuals contain worksheets for individual sessions. Other components of the Matrix Model include family education groups, early recovery skills groups, relapse prevention groups, combined sessions, urine tests, 12-step programs, relapse analysis and social support groups. A number of studies demonstrate that participants in recovery using the Matrix Model show statistically significant reductions in drug and alcohol usage, improvements in psychological indicators and reduced risky sexual behaviors associated with HIV transmission.

Effective Treatment Approaches

Medication and behavioral therapy, especially when combined, are important elements of an overall therapeutic process that often begins with detoxification, followed by treatment and relapse prevention. Easing withdrawal symptoms can be important in the initiation of treatment. Preventing relapse is necessary for maintaining its effects. However, episodes of relapse may require a return to prior treatment components. A continuum of care that includes a customized treatment regimen addressing all aspects of the life of a patient with addition, including medical and mental health services and follow up options like community or family-based recovery support systems, is crucial to the success of a patient in recovery because it helps the patient achieve and maintain a life free of drugs.

Q fever

An infection of Coxiella burnetii, a bacterium that affects both humans and animals, causes Q fever. This organism is uncommon but present in cattle, sheep, goats and other domestic mammals, including cats and dogs. The infection results from inhalation of contaminated particles in the air, and from contact with the vaginal mucus, milk, feces, urine or semen of infected animals. The incubation period is 9-40 days. Q fever is the most infectious disease in the world, because a single bacterium can cause widespread infection.