[The effect of physical training on physical, mental and social conditions in drug and/or alcohol addicts]. / Fysisk traenings effekt på fysiske, psykiske og sociale forhold hos stof- og/eller alkoholmisbrugere.

ABSTRACT

The physical, mental and social conditions of eight drug and alcohol addicts were examined prior to and after a period of three months with systemical physical training. The condition improved significantly during training. The circulatory reaction to stress remained unchanged before and after training but the resting levels for pulse and blood pressure were lower after training. Prior to training, a significant correlation was observed between the excretion of adrenalin in the urine and the anxiety level and this was not observed after training. The anxiety level measured by a STAI test decreased during the period of training whereas the excretion of adrenalin in the urine was not altered significantly and remained within the normal range. The patients were followed-up for approximately 18 months after discharge from hospital. During this period, the result of the physical stress and a hiking holiday which was included in the treatment were discussed before discharge. None of the patients continued the physical training after discharge from hospital despite encouragement to do so. The group gradually disintegrated and two years after the conclusion of the training, five patients had resumed the addiction. This investigation suggests that physical training may be of significance in the treatment of addicts but continued contact with the therapist is of decisive significance.