Unlocking Recovery with Medication-Assisted Treatment
Combating the Crisis of Addiction with Medication-Assisted Treatment
The opioid epidemic hit new tragic heights in April 2021 when overdose deaths, driven overwhelmingly by fentanyl, became the leading cause of death of Americans between the ages of 18-45.
At the same time, alcohol addiction reached a staggering record itself, though one perhaps less publicized. In 2020, there was an unprecedented 25% increase in alcohol-related deaths compared to 2019. For context, the average yearly rise from 1999 to 2019 was 3.6%, with the 2018 to 2019 increase being only 5%.
Compounding these crises in addiction, mental health issues have soared since the COVID-19 pandemic, with sharp increases in anxiety, depression, and suicide risk – often co-occurring with substance use disorders.
To address both the physical and mental aspects of addiction, CleanSlate Centers approach to recovery uses Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). MAT is a groundbreaking approach combining medication and behavioral therapy that effectively treats both opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD), offering individuals a path back to health and a new way of life.
To start your recovery journey today
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach to treating substance use disorders, blending FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy. Long recognized for its effectiveness in combating opioid addiction by alleviating withdrawal symptoms and cravings, MAT also offers promising solutions for alcohol addiction by curbing the urge to drink and the effects of alcohol on the brain.
How Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Work?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) uses specific medications that operate by interacting with the brain’s neurotransmitters and receptors. For opioid use disorder, these drugs either mimic the effects of opioids to diminish cravings and withdrawal symptoms or block the opioid receptors, making the use of opioids less appealing. In the case of alcohol use disorder, the medications work by either reducing the pleasurable effects of alcohol or by alleviating the intense cravings, providing a balanced brain chemistry that aids individuals in their recovery journey.
How Is Counseling Integrated into MAT Programs?
The combination of mental and behavioral health counseling with MAT medications is paramount to the success and comprehensive nature of the treatment. This combination approach addresses both the physiological aspects of addiction and the underlying psychological triggers and co-occurring mental health conditions. By treating both substance use disorders and associated mental health ailments, MAT ensures an integrated healing process. Counseling sessions equip individuals with coping skills, resilience and a deeper understanding of their triggers, while medications mitigate the physical grip of addiction. Together, these treatments can prevent relapse and pave the way for a sustainable and multi-dimensional recovery.
What Are the Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) offers many advantages tailored to support individuals in their journey towards a healthier life. The benefits of MAT include:
- Maintenance of treatment. Improves patients’ commitment to treatment programs
- Reduced use. Diminishes the inclination toward the use of illegal opioids or excessive alcohol
- Decreased overdose risk. Minimizes the potential for fatal and non-fatal overdoses
- Improved birth outcomes. For pregnant women battling addiction, MAT can lead to better birth outcomes
- Integrative treatment. Combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies for a well-rounded approach
- Economic positives. MAT can lead to reduced criminal activity and increased employment prospects, benefiting the broader community
- Lowered risk of infectious diseases. Reduces the risk of contracting or transmitting infectious diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C
The Future of Medication-Assisted Treatment in the Fight Against Addiction
The synergy of medication and therapy provides an effective framework to facilitate meaningful and lasting recovery, integrating medication with the pillars of mental and emotional well-being. Beyond merely addressing symptoms, MAT goes further, ensuring that recovery is both deep and enduring. The result is loosening the grip of addiction over innumerable lives, reclaiming them with dignity and purpose.
If you or a loved one is struggling with drugs or alcohol, don’t wait to get the help you deserve. Call (833) 505-4673 today
