Treatment and Recovery Options
Addiction is a disease, not a character flaw. People experiencing SUDs have trouble controlling their drug use even though they know drugs are harmful.
Overcoming an SUD is not as simple as resisting the temptation to take drugs. Recovery may involve medication to help with cravings and withdrawal as well as different forms of therapy. It may even require checking into a rehabilitation facility.
Addiction is a treatable disease
Like many other chronic conditions, treatment is available for substance use disorders. While no single treatment method is right for everyone, recovery is possible, and help is available for patients with SUDs.
Evidence-based guidelines can assist doctors with choosing the right treatment options. These guidelines help evaluate a patient's clinical needs and situation to match them with the right level of care, in the most appropriate available setting. For more information on evidence-based guidelines, visit Addiction Medicine Primer.
Recovery options
There are safe and effective ways to recover from SUDs. Finding the right treatment option can be the key to a successful recovery journey.
Outpatient counseling
Helps people understand addiction, their triggers, and their reasons for using drugs. This form of treatment can be done at a doctor’s office or via telehealth appointment.
Inpatient rehabilitation
A full-time facility provides a supportive environment to help people recover without distractions or temptations.
Behavioral health care
Trained providers who help with mental health concerns.
Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)
Specific conditions like opioid use disorder may require medication as the first course of treatment. MOUD can help with cravings and withdrawal symptoms.3 MOUD is effective in helping people reduce illegal opioid use, stay in treatment longer, and reduce the risk of opioid-involved overdose.
MOUD medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
Research has demonstrated that MOUD is effective in helping people recover from their OUD. It is important to find what works best for each individual.
Reducing stigma is important
Addiction can happen to anyone
SUD is a treatable, chronic disease that can affect people of any race, sex, income level, or social class. No one driving factor leads to SUD. Some people may use drugs to help cope with stress and trauma or to help with mental health issues. Some may develop a SUD after taking opioids that are prescribed to them by doctors. In any case, using drugs over time may cause changes in a person's brain, leading to intense cravings and continued use.
Some may view acknowledging and receiving treatment for an SUD as a sign of personal failure and weakness. The associated shame felt by patients and families can make it difficult to seek treatment. Finding a doctor who is comfortable discussing SUDs can help ensure long-term recovery.