Types of Treatment for Opioid Addiction

What to Expect

Opioid addiction is a serious public health issue that affects millions of individuals and their families in the United States. It is a chronic disease that is characterized by the compulsive use of opioids despite the negative consequences it causes on one’s physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. The opioid epidemic has reached a critical point, with opioid overdose deaths continuing to rise.

The purpose of this article is to provide an in-depth look at the different types of treatment available for opioid addiction. At Carolina Energetics, we believe that the most effective way to overcome addiction is through a combination of different therapies tailored to the individual’s needs. This article will cover medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapies, alternative therapies, and recover and support. By understanding the different options available, individuals struggling with opioid addiction can make informed decisions about their recovery journey.

Different Treatment Types

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating opioid addiction that combines the use of FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. The goal of MAT is to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to stop using drugs and focus on recovery.

MAT medications, such as Suboxone and Subutex, are prescribed by a healthcare provider and taken under their supervision. These medications work by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, but without producing the same “high.” This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to stop using drugs.

MAT is considered to be safe and effective, however, it is important to note that it is not a standalone treatment and should be used in conjunction with counseling and behavioral therapies. This combination approach addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, helping individuals to develop the skills and coping mechanisms they need to maintain long-term recovery.

The use of MAT is supported by decades of research, and it is recommended by organizations such as the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. It is important to keep in mind that MAT is not a quick fix, but rather a long-term treatment approach that requires commitment and follow-up care.

In summary, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a proven and effective approach to treating opioid addiction, and it is available at Carolina Energetics. The use of Suboxone and Subutex, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, can help individuals to overcome their addiction and reclaim their lives.

Behavioral Therapies

Behavioral therapies are a form of counseling that focus on changing the individual’s behavior and attitudes related to drug use. These therapies aim to help individuals develop the skills and coping mechanisms they need to maintain long-term recovery. Some examples of behavioral therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing (MI).

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that helps individuals to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their addiction. It is based on the principle that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and by changing one, the other two can be affected.

Contingency management is a form of therapy that rewards individuals for positive behavior related to their recovery. This can include rewards such as vouchers or small cash incentives for negative drug screens or attendance at therapy sessions.

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a form of therapy that helps individuals to explore and resolve ambivalence about change, and it is based on the principle that individuals have to be ready to change before they can be successful in doing so.

These therapies can be provided individually or in group sessions, and they are provided by trained professionals. Behavioral therapies have been proven to be effective in treating opioid addiction, and they are often used in combination with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to address the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Behavioral therapies can provide individuals with the tools and coping mechanisms they need to maintain long-term recovery.

Opioid Addiction

Alternative Therapies

Alternative therapies refer to non-traditional forms of treatment that can complement and enhance traditional forms of treatment such as medication-assisted treatment and behavioral therapies. Examples of alternative therapies include acupuncture, yoga, and exercise. These therapies can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall wellness.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and promote healing. It is believed that acupuncture can help to balance the body’s energy, known as Qi, and that this balance can help to reduce stress and improve overall health.

Yoga is a form of exercise that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It is believed that yoga can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall wellness. Yoga can also help individuals to develop better balance, flexibility, and muscle tone.

Exercise is an effective alternative therapy to improve physical and mental health, reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall wellness. Regular exercise can help individuals to maintain a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

These therapies can be provided individually or in group sessions, and they are provided by trained professionals. Alternative therapies can be a valuable addition to an individual’s treatment plan, helping them to improve their physical and mental health and overall well-being during their recovery journey. Alternative therapies can be integrated with other forms of treatment to provide a comprehensive approach to opioid addiction treatment.

Opioid Addiction

Recovery and Support

Recovery and support are essential components of opioid addiction treatment. They help individuals to maintain their progress after completing a treatment program and to build a strong foundation for long-term recovery. Some examples of recovery and support services include 12-step programs, peer support groups, and sober living homes.

12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, provide individuals with a structured approach to recovery, and they are based on the principle of mutual support. They involve meeting regularly with a group of individuals who are also in recovery, and they provide a sense of community and accountability.

Peer support groups are groups of individuals who are in recovery and who provide support and encouragement to one another. These groups can be led by trained professionals or by individuals in recovery, and they provide a sense of community and understanding.

Sober living homes are residential facilities that provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals in recovery. These homes typically have rules and expectations that support recovery, such as no drug or alcohol use, and they can provide a sense of structure and accountability.

These services provide individuals with ongoing support, accountability, and a sense of community. These services can help individuals to maintain their progress, stay motivated, and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery. Recovery and support services can be integrated with other forms of treatment to provide a comprehensive approach to opioid addiction treatment.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, opioid addiction is a complex disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment. The different types of treatment available for opioid addiction all have their unique benefits and can be effective when used in combination.  It’s essential to remember that recovery is a journey and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every individual’s needs are different, and the most effective treatment plan is one that is tailored to the person’s specific circumstances. At Carolina Energetics, we understand that the road to recovery can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, it is possible to overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, please reach out to us for help and guidance on the path to healing.

Contact Carolina Energetics today for more information!

About Carolina Energetics PC

When you come to Carolina Energetics PC, know that you’re receiving top-rated opioid treatment in a safe environment. We’ve made it our mission to create a compassionate and non-judgmental Suboxone clinic where you can focus on healing when you visit us. Your drug rehabilitation journey is facilitated by professionals who are acquainted with the process, and our goal is to make your experience as comfortable as possible. 

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