Treatment for drug addiction means a chance to earn rewards for an increasing number of patients in recovery. A successful patient can earn rewards totaling $500 in some programs. The prizes are often gift cards given out for passing drug tests or for showing up for counseling. There’s brain science behind this method, known as contingency management. Now, with overdose deaths breaking record highs, the strategy has never had stronger support. More than 150 studies over 30 years have shown it works better than counseling alone for addictions including cocaine, alcohol, tobacco and, when used alongside medications, opioids.
Candy, cash, gifts: How rewards help recovery from addiction
