When you think of going to rehab, you generally picture a drug free facility. While most people get sober by abstaining from drugs and alcohol, there are certain addictions that benefit from medication assisted therapy. No two addictions are alike, which is why at Atlanta Recovery Place we emphasize individualized care. To learn more about medication assisted therapy in addiction recovery, keep on reading!
What Is a MAT Drug Rehab?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a type of therapy that uses a combination of medication and counseling/behavioral therapies. This helps to provide a “whole person” approach to substance abuse and treatment. Research has been done on MAT drug rehab, and shows that this type of therapy has been successful in treating substance abuse disorders and helping those who struggle with an addiction.
The medication that is used within this treatment program is used to help normalize brain chemistry, and block the euphoric effects that the substance may give. It also helps to relieve some of the physiological cravings and to normalize the body functions without any side effects. The goal of mat is to achieve a full recovery from addiction, and for each individual to have the ability to live a healthy and self-directed life. The MAT program has been proven to:
- Improve person survival from drug addiction
- Increase retention and treatment
- Decreased the usage of illicit opiate and other criminal activity that occurs due to substance abuse disorders
- Increase a person’s ability to gain and maintain employment
- Improve birth outcomes among women who are struggling with a substance abuse disorder and are pregnant
Research has also shown that the medications and therapies within the medication-assisted treatment program can also contribute to lowering an individual’s risk of contracting a disease such as HIV or Hepatitis C.
Who Needs Medication-Assisted Therapy?
The MAT program has been used to help those who are struggling with substance abuse. Especially those who are struggling with an opioid addiction such as heroin or a prescription drug addiction. The medication- assisted treatment therapy program is usually customized to fit each of the clients individualized needs. This individualization can be through the usage of different types of medications and different types of therapy. This therapy can be a one-on-one therapy, support group therapy, behavioral therapy, and so much more.
The professionals within this program will help their clients choose a drug that fits the specific substance in which the individual is abusing. Like previously mentioned the medication-assisted treatment program is usually used to treat opioid use disorders and can help these individuals who are struggling with opioid use disorders to sustain recovery.
Currently the FDA has only approved three different types of drugs for opioid dependence. These drugs are buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. Those who receive medication-assisted therapy may be individuals who don’t think that regular behavioral therapy will benefit them and prevent them from furthering their substance abuse problem. It could also be in an individual who has tried behavioral therapies and they have not worked in the past, so trying medication-assisted therapy may be beneficial.
How Atlanta Recovery Place Can Help With Addiction
Atlanta Recovery Place is a premiere outpatient rehab located in Dunwoody, Georgia. We’re a team of dedicated individuals who strive to help anyone struggling with substance abuse. Our programs range from partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and sober living. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out to us today.
