The Healthy You Is the Better You

Posted on: 25 June 2020

Opiate addiction is a dark, dark hole to fall into. One day, however, you may realize you're ready to crawl out of that hole and seek treatment. How do you ensure that treatment is effective? Well, there are a few tips you can follow.

1. Start with an inpatient treatment program.

In most cases, it is better to enroll in an inpatient program than an outpatient program when you're first starting your recovery journey. You'll have an easier time moving past your addiction in a new environment, away from the friends and places that may encourage you to use again. These programs usually start with a supervised withdrawal and then continue for a few weeks with therapy and group sessions to help you move forward.

2. Don't stop after withdrawal.

Many people assume that once they withdraw from opiates, the hard work is finished. But if you just withdraw and then go back to your normal life, you are likely to relapse again. Your treatment needs to continue after withdrawal. You need to work with a therapist to discover why you abuse opiates in the first place, then explore alternative ways to handle the emotions and situations that drive you to abuse opioids. Many patients need to continue this therapy for years after they withdraw; there's no shame in that.

3. Tell your friends and family members.

Opiate addiction may be something you feel ashamed of, but don't let those feelings prompt you to keep your recovery to yourself. Tell your friends and family members that you are seeking treatment for your addiction. When they know, they'll be better able to support you through this process. If you feel too nervous about telling everyone in person, consider writing one simple email and sending it out to everyone you're close with.

4. Try a variety of therapies.

Once you have gone through withdrawal, be open to trying a variety of different therapies. No single approach works for everyone. You may find that you benefit most from cognitive behavioral therapy, or you may find that you get more out of group therapy. If something does not feel like it's working, try something else. If you waste time in programs that don't seem to be working for you, then you'll be increasing your risk of relapse.

Recovering from addiction is a big step, but it's a step you can take with confidence. Contact local opioid addiction treatment centers to learn more.