MEDICATION MANAGEMENT IS FUNDAMENTAL
There isn’t much conversation going on about helping rehab program participants to deal with their medication needs. However, when you’re treating someone who visits a residential and inpatient treatment program because of a prescription drug problem, wouldn’t it make sense? If addiction specialists do nothing, there’s a high relapse potential. For this reason, proactive medication management is a good strategy.
However, not too many facilities offer it. For starters, it requires the presence of medical professionals who understand the chemical intricacies of the drugs. Secondly, there’s a need for program-participant-centered communication. Now isn’t the time for printed handouts and glossy brochures.
Medical experts must ensure that each person they work with understands options, alternatives, and contraindications. Facilitating this level of service doesn’t have to be difficult. Clinical directors, medical directors, counselors, and licensed therapists work together to create channels of communication. Good-quality substance use treatment centers offer medication management assistance as part of their educational programs.
UNDERSTANDING THE NEED (AND THE OBSTACLES)
Patients in residential treatment, for example, usually have a lot on their minds. They are worried about how they will pay for their stay, what will happen when they leave, and whether or not they will be able to stay sober. They may also be dealing with unemployment, relationship stressors, and trauma. All of these factors can lead to relapse if not properly managed.
For many people in treatment, medications can be a helpful part of their recovery. Whether it’s to manage withdrawal symptoms, treat a mental health disorder, or help with pain management, the right medication can make all the difference.
Unfortunately, there is a lot of stigma around taking medication for addiction. People in recovery are often afraid to take medications because they worry that it means they are not really sober. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is when people in recovery take medications to help with their recovery. This can include medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications are all FDA-approved and have been shown to be safe and effective in treating addiction.
EFFECTIVE MEDICATION MANAGEMENT FOR MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT AND ADDICTION TREATMENT
Next, there’s a discussion about your chemical dependency. If it involves a prescription drug, it’s vital to find out what condition you’re struggling with. Case in point is the opioid user who has a pain management problem. Frequently, it’s possible to find alternative means of handling the pain impulses.
Another facet of the medication management plan is the use of prescription medications to assist with rehab. Depending on the drug you’re recovering from, you may benefit from pharmacological support. Likewise, if you’re using medications for other physiological conditions, it’s vital for a therapist or counselor to connect with your physician. Doing so prevents problems with substances that don’t work well together.
DEALING WITH MEDICATIONS IS PART OF A REHAB REGIMEN
- Gender-specific treatment that provides a safe haven where you feel comfortable opening up and sharing your experiences
- Confidential psychotherapy, which opens the door to self-discovery and the ability to make desirable changes
- Group therapy sessions to develop relapse prevention strategies and allow for educational meetings
- Family therapy that helps to build a strong support network during rehab (with an eye on discharge in the future)
- Holistic treatments such as meditation and yoga, which can benefit individuals who abused substances for stress control
- Dual diagnosis treatment that benefits people with underlying mental health problems
- Trauma therapy, which is vital for participants who struggle with unresolved issues from the past
Experts prioritize educating you about medical issues related to the drugs you’ve used and the medications you need. Doing so empowers you to take on an active role in recovery. As a result, you take ownership of the process, which is an aspect of the 12 step program many participants favor. As you can see, managing medications is a treatment that’s an integral part of healing.
Find out more about your options. The friendly addiction specialists at Crestview Recovery want to help. Call (866)262-0531 now for immediate assistance.
