In treatment and recovery from substance use disorders, individuals often encounter numerous challenges that make the path difficult to navigate. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) offers hope and support, providing a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to addiction treatment. By integrating medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT addresses the needs of individuals more holistically, thereby enhancing the chances of successful long-term recovery.
Insight Recovery Center offers North Carolina residents comprehensive addiction treatment, including medication-assisted treatment. Call 828.826.1376 today.
The Role of MAT in the Continuum of Care
Medication-assisted treatment plays a crucial role in the continuum of care for addiction treatment. It serves as a bridge between detoxification and long-term recovery by stabilizing patients, reducing cravings, and minimizing withdrawal symptoms. This stability allows individuals to focus more effectively on the psychological aspects of their addiction through therapy and support programs. MAT is not a standalone solution but a pivotal component of an integrative treatment strategy that includes various levels of care:
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) – These programs offer intensive therapeutic support and accountability, providing a highly structured environment for recovery. MAT can be crucial during this phase to manage withdrawal symptoms and help individuals focus on therapy.
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) – As individuals progress in their recovery, MAT continues to support them by maintaining chemical balance and reducing the risk of relapse, allowing them to participate in structured treatment while managing daily life responsibilities.
- Outpatient programs (OP) – For those who are firmly in recovery, MAT serves as an ongoing support mechanism, ensuring that cravings and withdrawal symptoms do not hinder their progress as they navigate a sober lifestyle.
Insight Recovery Center can help you or a loved one find the path to recovery by recommending a customized treatment plant.
Common Medications Used in MAT
A variety of medications form the foundation of MAT, each with unique benefits tailored to combat specific aspects of substance use disorders. Two of the most common are:
- Suboxone – Known for its ceiling effect, Suboxone lowers the risk of misuse and reduces the severity of withdrawal symptoms. It can be prescribed in various settings, offering greater accessibility and flexibility for individuals in recovery.
- Vivitrol – An opioid antagonist, Vivitrol blocks the euphoric and sedative effects of drugs like heroin and alcohol. It is non-addictive and helps prevent relapse by eliminating the rewarding sensations associated with substance use, making it a valuable tool in maintaining long-term sobriety.
Benefits of Mediation-Assisted Treatment
The advantages of incorporating MAT into addiction treatment are numerous. By providing a well-rounded approach, MAT addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction:
- Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms – MAT helps stabilize brain chemistry, allowing individuals to feel normal and focus on recovery efforts rather than battling constant cravings.
- Improves retention in treatment programs – By alleviating physical discomfort, MAT enables individuals to engage more fully in therapy and other recovery activities, increasing their chances of staying in treatment longer.
- Decreases risk of relapse – With cravings under control, individuals are less likely to return to substance use, thereby reducing the risk of relapse and offering a smoother path to recovery.
- Supports long-term recovery – MAT offers continuous support, helping individuals sustain recovery over the long term by addressing ongoing symptoms and preventing relapse.
When administered by a professional treatment center like Insight Recovery Center, medication-assisted treatment can significantly help with your treatment and recovery journey.
Start Your Recovery Journey with Insight Recovery Center
At Insight Recovery Center in Asheville, North Carolina, we are committed to providing compassionate, individualized care that meets each client’s unique needs. Our clinician-founded and operated facility integrates MAT with mindfulness-based therapies, offering a comprehensive and integrative approach to recovery. Our expert team is ready to support you every step of the way, ensuring that you receive the highest quality of care throughout your recovery journey.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder, don’t wait to seek help. Reach out to Insight Recovery Center online or call 828.826.1376 today. Our compassionate, professional staff can answer your questions or help you begin the admissions process.