The consequences of using heroin are heavy for people who experience the drug for the first time or multiple times. Overdose is a real threat, as with relapses, when people are trying to get clean. It can be a very difficult drug to quit using. Post-treatment challenges have no easy answers, but there are some ways to boost recovery that will support staying clean for the long haul.
Relapse Risk
One of the major risk factors for people who are addicted to heroin is that they can relapse easily. Maintaining sobriety is not easy. Even following detox and rehab, the relapse rate is 40 to 60 percent. It is important to remember that people do not fail if they relapse. They are simply struggling with the reality of addiction. Each addiction treatment plan should be individualized for maximum support, but even then, there may be challenges. For best results in recovery, there are some things to consider.
Medication
The medication works to manage the use of the drug by providing relief from symptoms. Some of the following may be prescribed for use during recovery:
- Methadone: blocks symptoms of withdrawal, but may also be addictive
- Buprenorphine: people experience some symptoms, though effects are lower than methadone, but has less risk of developing tolerance
- Naloxone: may be added to buprenorphine to decrease the likelihood of abuse
- Naltrexone: binds and blocks opioid receptors in the brain which gets rid of euphoric feelings
Methadone is seen as the most effective treatment, but it depends on the treatment center and options for that person during that time of their journey.
Behavioral Therapy
Thinking about things differently can create space for a person with a heroin addiction to consider how they want to move forward in life. It lessens the risk of triggers and cravings being part of their daily walk in recovery. Behavioral intervention efficacy depends on which one is used. There are several from which to choose:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which helps a person avoid and cope with circumstances by which a person may use drugs
- Contingency Management (CM): systems in which rewards are given in exchange for clean drug tests
- Motivational enhancement therapy: works to provoke internal motivation to stop using and enter treatment
- Family therapy: counseling to help family communicate more effectively and support the efficacy of treatment
Factors that may work in someone’s favor may work against another. Some of the pain points like stress, mental health issues, homelessness, or being around people who use drugs can be mitigated with the right support. There are therapy and help for dual diagnosis, including different medications. There is also the need to reposition someone in a new place so they can concentrate on healing. This might mean they find help with transitional living or sober homes. Healing looks different for everyone, but the main goal should be to stay sober and clean. Unconditional love and support are one of the best ways to navigate sobriety and staying off drugs, with the right tools and measures in place to build a solid recovery foundation.
Oceanfront will help you kick an addiction to the curb with our premier beachfront community in Laguna Beach. We are founded on the principle of providing the best in care and services at affordable prices. We are located in beautiful Laguna Beach. Call us to find out how we can help you navigate addiction recovery: 888-981-4295
