Turn To Help For Opioid Addiction

Navigate your path to recovery as you turn to help for opioid addiction. Discover treatment options and resources.

Published On

May 9, 2024

Dove Recovery's Team

Turn To Help For Opioid Addiction

Seeking Help for Opioid Addiction

Recognizing the need for assistance in overcoming opioid addiction is the first step towards recovery. Various resources are available to aid individuals grappling with substance use disorders. This section will delve into two primary avenues for seeking help - contacting SAMHSA's National Helpline and utilizing the Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator.

Contacting SAMHSA's National Helpline

SAMHSA's National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. In 2020, this helpline received 833,598 calls, demonstrating a 27 percent increase compared to the previous year.

The helpline offers a secure and supportive environment for individuals seeking to turn to help for opioid addiction. The helpline can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP. It provides a lifeline to those in need, linking them to essential resources and services that can aid in their recovery journey.

It is crucial to remember that if drug use is causing problems or becoming uncontrollable, it's important to seek help as soon as possible. This could involve talking with a healthcare provider, a mental health provider specializing in addiction medicine or addiction psychiatry, or a licensed alcohol and drug counselor.

Utilizing Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator

SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is another valuable tool for individuals seeking assistance with opioid addiction. This online resource enables users to find local treatment facilities, support groups, and community organizations that can assist in their recovery.

The locator provides comprehensive information on the available services, helping individuals find the resources that best suit their needs. By inputting a location, individuals can access a list of nearby treatment centers, complete with contact information and details about the services offered. This tool can serve as a starting point in the journey towards recovery, providing a roadmap to the help available in the local community.

It's important to note that overcoming drug addiction often involves support not only from healthcare providers but also from family, friends, support groups, or an organized treatment program. Therefore, while these resources provide professional help, it's essential to also consider the role of personal support networks in the recovery process.

In conclusion, seeking help for opioid addiction may seem daunting, but numerous resources are available to guide and support individuals throughout their recovery journey. From helplines to treatment locators, these tools can provide the necessary assistance to those ready to take the first steps towards a drug-free life.

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

When someone decides to turn to help for opioid addiction, medications often play a vital role in managing withdrawal symptoms, reducing cravings, and preventing relapse. This section delves into the three commonly prescribed medications for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD): Methadone, Buprenorphine, and Naltrexone.

Methadone for Withdrawal Symptoms

Methadone, an oral mu-receptor agonist, is commonly used in opioid replacement therapy to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. It does not make individuals feel high but restores balance to the brain affected by addiction, allowing for healing during recovery from OUD [4]. Methadone treatment, offered at specially monitored clinics in the US, is associated with a 50% reduction in all-cause mortality and a 50% reduction in the incidence of hepatitis C.

Buprenorphine for Cravings

Buprenorphine, a partial mu-receptor agonist, is another oral long-acting opioid used for maintenance therapy for OUD. It is often combined with naloxone to deter misuse. This combination also includes naloxone, which is used to treat opioid overdoses. Like Methadone, Buprenorphine helps restore balance to the brain affected by addiction and does not induce a high, making it effective in reducing cravings [4]. Naloxone prescriptions should also be considered for a broader population of patients taking chronic opioids.

Naltrexone for Relapse Prevention

Naltrexone is used to prevent relapse in individuals recovering from OUD. It works by taking away the high normally experienced when taking opioids. To avoid severe withdrawal symptoms, individuals must be off opioids for 7-10 days before starting Naltrexone.

Each of these medications can be a powerful tool in the journey to recovery from opioid addiction. However, it's crucial to remember that medication alone is not enough. It should be part of a comprehensive recovery program that includes counseling and other support mechanisms. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment approach for you or a loved one struggling with OUD.

Counseling for Opioid Addiction

Counseling plays a pivotal role in the treatment plan for opioid addiction. It provides individuals struggling with addiction the tools to understand and manage the behavioral, social, and psychological aspects associated with opioid use disorder (OUD).

Types of Therapy Available

Counseling for OUD can encompass various types of therapy and resources, including individual therapy, group therapy, and referrals to additional services.

Individual therapy involves one-on-one sessions with a counselor or therapist who is trained in addiction treatment. During these sessions, the individual can explore the root causes of their addiction, learn coping strategies, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Group therapy offers the opportunity to connect with others who are also navigating the journey to recovery. It provides a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others, and build a network of support.

Care for OUD is coordinated by an interprofessional team, including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, and other addiction and substance use professionals. The team's role is to optimize OUD therapy by prescribing medications, providing recommendations, conducting cognitive behavioral therapies, and promoting therapy adherence. Effective communication and coordination among healthcare team members is integral to a successful approach.

Importance of Support Groups

Support groups are a crucial component in the recovery process. They provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can connect with others who are facing similar struggles, share their experiences, and offer mutual encouragement.

Support from a health care provider, family, friends, support groups, or an organized treatment program can significantly help overcome drug addiction and stay drug-free.

These groups are often facilitated by a trained leader and can take many forms, including in-person meetings, online communities, or telephone hotlines. They can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community, which can be incredibly beneficial for individuals who may feel isolated or stigmatized by their addiction.

Treatment for opioid use disorder involves various approaches tailored to the individual, which may include medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, alongside support programs provided by health care professionals either on an outpatient basis or through residential programs like rehabilitation centers.

In conclusion, counseling and support groups are fundamental aspects of a comprehensive approach to opioid addiction treatment. They provide individuals with the skills, knowledge, and support needed to overcome addiction, manage cravings, and maintain long-term recovery. It's crucial for anyone struggling with opioid addiction to seek help and explore the various counseling and treatment options available to them.

Treatment Options for Opioid Addiction

When someone decides to turn to help for opioid addiction, it's vital to be aware of the various treatment options available. There are several evidence-based approaches and a variety of recovery settings that cater to the specific needs of each individual.

Evidence-Based Approaches

Evidence-based approaches to treating opioid addiction often involve medications and behavioral therapy, which increase the chance of success in recovery.

The two main medication options for treating opioid addiction are Methadone and Buprenorphine. These opioid medications help stabilize a person's life by eliminating withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings [7].

The medications for opioid addiction work by normalizing brain chemistry, relieving cravings, and in some cases, preventing withdrawal symptoms. These can help individuals counteract the effects of addiction on the brain and behavior.

In addition to medications, treatment for opioid use disorder often includes behavioral therapy and support programs. These therapies can be provided by health care professionals on an outpatient basis or through residential programs like rehabilitation centers.

Flexibility in Recovery Settings

Opioid addiction treatment can vary depending on the patient's needs, and it can occur in various settings, take different forms, and last for varying lengths of time. This offers flexibility in recovery options, allowing individuals to choose a path that best suits their lifestyle and needs.

For instance, some individuals may opt for outpatient treatment, which allows them to continue their daily routines while receiving treatment. Others might find that a residential program provides the structured environment and intensive care they need to focus on recovery.

In any case, the goal of treatment is to help individuals stop using opioids, maintain a drug-free lifestyle, and achieve productive functioning in the family, at work, and in society. And regardless of the setting, treatment needs to be readily available, since individuals who do not receive the proper care can quickly return to opioid use.

By understanding the variety of treatment options and recovery settings available, individuals struggling with opioid addiction can make informed decisions about their care and take the first step towards recovery.

Resources for Opioid Addiction Support

When someone decides to turn to help for opioid addiction, it's essential they have access to the resources and support needed for recovery. Here are some resources available for individuals seeking help.

SAMHSA's National Helpline

One of the readily available resources for individuals struggling with opioid addiction is SAMHSA's National Helpline. This helpline provides confidential, free, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

In 2020, the helpline saw a significant increase in usage, with 833,598 calls received, marking a 27 percent increase from 2019 when it handled 656,953 calls. Those seeking help can call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or utilize SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator for assistance.

Mental Health and Addiction Insurance Help

Navigating the financial aspects of addiction treatment can be a challenge. Mental Health and Addiction Insurance Help is a resource that aids individuals in understanding their insurance coverage for mental health and substance use disorders.

This service can provide crucial support in understanding and utilizing your insurance benefits, addressing concerns about unfair treatment limitations, and resolving disagreements with your insurance provider. More information about this and other resources, like Health Center Locator, Behavioral Health Treatment Services, Opioid Treatment Program Directory by State, and Buprenorphine Providers Locator, can be found on the CDC's website.

Additionally, for those residing in Canada, there are several services available for help with substance use, including overdose prevention and tobacco cessation. Canada-wide services such as the crisis line at 1-800-668-6868, textline at 686868, textline at 1-855-562-2262, and several other support services are readily available. Moreover, there are lists of pharmacies providing naloxone, harm reduction centers, and other support services available for those seeking help with opioid addiction in Canada.

Remember, seeking help is the first step towards recovery. There are numerous resources available to provide the support you need on your journey to overcoming opioid addiction.

Opioid Addiction: Facts and Figures

Opioid addiction is a growing concern worldwide, impacting millions of individuals and communities. Understanding the facts and figures related to opioid use disorder (OUD) is crucial for developing effective strategies to address this public health crisis.

Impact of Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid Use Disorder affects a significant number of people across the globe. According to the NCBI Bookshelf, over 16 million people worldwide and more than 2.1 million in the United States are impacted by OUD. The effects of this disorder are far-reaching, with over 120,000 deaths worldwide attributed to opioids every year.

Location	People Affected by OUD
Worldwide	16 million
United States	2.1 million

Public Health Crisis and Treatment Approaches

The increasing prevalence of OUD has led to it being recognized as a public health crisis. In response, various treatment approaches have been explored and implemented.

One significant development is the Mainstreaming Addiction Treatment (MAT) Act which empowers all healthcare providers with a controlled substance certificate to prescribe buprenorphine for OUD, eliminating the need for the previous DATA-Waiver (X-Waiver) program.

The CDC also notes that opioid addiction treatment can vary depending on the patient’s needs, occur in various settings, take different forms, and last for varying lengths of time, offering flexibility in recovery options.

Evidence-based approaches to treating opioid addiction have been identified, including the use of medications and combining medications with behavioral therapy, which increase the chance of success in recovery. Medications used in the treatment of opioid addiction support recovery by normalizing brain chemistry, relieving cravings, and, in some cases, preventing withdrawal symptoms, all helping individuals counteract addiction’s effects on the brain and behavior.

The facts and figures related to opioid addiction highlight the seriousness of this public health crisis and underscore the importance of early intervention and effective treatment strategies. By understanding the scope of the problem and the options available for help, individuals and communities can better navigate this challenging situation and turn to help for opioid addiction.