Do I Have to Go to Inpatient Rehab or Do I Have Other Options?

Posted on October 20, 2022August 1, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

Millions of people in the United States live with substance abuse or addiction. About one in twelve people meet the criteria for a substance use disorder, but only about 11% of those who need treatment receive it. Many barriers prevent people from getting the support they need to overcome addiction. Concern about going to inpatient rehab may be a barrier that keeps people from seeking treatment when they need it.

Choosing the right level of care is essential when seeking addiction treatment. You must find a program that provides the treatment you need while balancing your responsibilities at home and in the community. Finding a level of care that addresses the severity of your addiction and allows you to continue working, caring for children, or going to school is ideal.

People may believe they are required to seek inpatient addiction treatment. But several alternatives to inpatient rehab provide high-quality treatment and the flexibility you want. Learning about outpatient rehab options can help you make the right decision about your care.

For more information about starting a substance abuse treatment program, reach out to the Woburn Wellness Addiction Treatment specialists today.

What Happens During Rehab?

Addiction is not simply a physical condition. Substance abuse and addiction are complex conditions with roots in a person’s family history, mental and physical health, and environment. People living with substance abuse or addiction require comprehensive, compassionate treatment that addresses the complexities of addiction instead of relying on detoxification alone.

A comprehensive addiction treatment program offers care for every part of a person. Treatment plans use a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies that address the underlying causes of addiction and teach people the skills they need to overcome it. These therapies include:

Individual counseling
Group therapy
Family therapy
Medications
Mental health care
Medical treatment
Education
Holistic therapies like art and music, mindfulness, acupuncture, and nutritional counseling
Aftercare planning

After completing a treatment program, people must develop aftercare plans that keep them active and engaged in recovery. Aftercare plans may include individual therapy, group support, additional treatment, regular medical care, and other activities that support recovery.

Who Should Go to Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient rehab is designed to promote structure and a healthy routine. It involves around-the-clock care and support. This type of intensive treatment is best for people who:

Have severe drug or alcohol addictions
Have co-occurring mental health conditions
Do not have safe, supportive housing options

If a treatment specialist determines during your assessment that you meet the criteria for an inpatient rehab program, they will encourage you to attend inpatient rehab. However, inpatient isn’t your only option.

What Are My Outpatient Rehab Options?

There are several outpatient rehab options at Woburn Wellness Addiction Treatment that provide high-quality treatment and a lot of flexibility. Understanding what is involved in each level of care will help you know what to expect during treatment.

Outpatient Treatment

Our outpatient addiction treatment program provides support for people who need substance abuse treatment but need to continue working, going to school, or caring for families. Outpatient treatment plans include various individual and group therapies and can be adjusted to meet people’s individual requirements.

Daytime IOP

Our intensive outpatient treatment program is offered every weekday morning from 9 am-12:30 pm. Participants may attend individual counseling, group therapy, and skills groups up to five days per week. The length of time you spend attending treatment will depend on your unique needs.

Evening IOP

Our evening IOP is designed to accommodate people with busy lives. Sessions are offered each weekday from 6-9 pm. This schedule allows people to get the treatment they need while caring for family, working, or going to school. Participants work in a group setting to set goals, learn new skills, and take personal inventory. Individual counseling sessions will be scheduled separately as needed.

Day Treatment

This program allows people to get intensive treatment services while continuing to live at home. Day Treatment participants spend a minimum of 25 hours a week engaged in therapeutic services each week. Sessions are held every weekday from 9 am-2:30 pm. Our treatment plans combine MAT, holistic therapies, and other evidence-based treatments to provide care for the whole person and support lifelong recovery from addiction.

Are Alternatives to Inpatient Rehab Right For Me?

Before beginning an addiction treatment program, your doctor or addiction specialist will evaluate your individual needs and recommend a level of care. Their assessment will likely include questions about your mental and physical health, substance abuse, withdrawal symptoms, prior treatment history, and other important personal information.

With this information, your treatment team can determine which level of care meets your needs. Addiction is a complex, personal condition, and your treatment plan must address its physical, emotional, behavioral, and environmental aspects.

Your doctor will determine whether you require inpatient treatment or can choose one of the alternatives to inpatient rehab. Generally, people with severe addiction, intense cravings, or a history of unsuccessful treatment attempts may be excluded from choosing outpatient rehab options.

For those who meet the criteria for outpatient rehab, the flexibility of these programs can help people stay engaged in treatment and complete their rehab programs while balancing the demands of their busy lives.

Get Help Now

By offering a continuum of care, Woburn Wellness meets people where they are at in their recovery journey. Whether you need 24-hour support or something more flexible, we can help.

If you or someone you love requires substance abuse treatment or support during recovery, you are not alone. Reach out to the caring Woburn Wellness Addiction Treatment specialists today.

Can I Get Treatment for Addiction and Mental Health at the Same Time?

Posted on October 14, 2022August 1, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

Addiction affects people’s lives in profound ways. Living with untreated substance abuse and addiction often leads to lifelong consequences for people’s physical and emotional health. It impairs a person’s ability to live a healthy, fulfilling life. The effects of addiction often ripple outward into people’s families and communities. Many people require treatment to overcome addiction and live a healthy, sober lifestyle.

Many with addiction also have a diagnosed mental illness. When someone lives with both mental illness and addiction, it is called having a dual diagnosis. About 4 million people in the United States require treatment for addiction and mental health problems, but only about 8% of those who need this type of treatment get it.[1]

When someone does require treatment for both addiction and mental health problems, it’s important to treat both conditions at the same time. Not all addiction treatment facilities can treat mental illness, so it’s crucial that you find a center that offers dual diagnosis treatment.

For information on starting treatment for addiction and mental health or for support during recovery, reach out to the Woburn Addiction treatment specialists today.

Do I Need Treatment for Addiction and Mental Health?

Some people have received a formal diagnosis of a substance use disorder and a mental illness from health professionals, and some live with symptoms of both conditions without being formally diagnosed for years.

More than half of people who seek substance abuse treatment meet the criteria for a formal mental health diagnosis.[2] Having a formal diagnosis from a medical professional may help you start the process of getting treatment for addiction and mental health.

Each person’s experience with substance abuse and mental illness will be different, but people often share common symptoms when living with a dual diagnosis, including:

Having a diagnosis of either a mental illness or a substance use disorder
Starting to use drugs or alcohol after experiencing a traumatic event
Diagnosis of bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, or borderline personality disorder
Continuing to use drugs despite negative consequences like losing a job, the breakup of a relationship, being involved in an accident, legal trouble, or a significant medical problem
Changes in mood, personality, sleep, or appearance
Strained relationships and isolation
Using a lot of time and energy to get, use, and recover from substance abuse

It’s important to get treatment for addiction and mental health at the same time. If you treat only mental illness, the substance abuse may interfere with treating your symptoms. Similarly, if you treat only the addiction, your mental illness may prevent you from completing treatment.

What Happens During Treatment for Addiction and Mental Health?

Dual diagnosis rehab is similar to other substance abuse treatment programs but includes time and treatments to address the symptoms of mental illness and addiction. Treatment for addiction and mental health often happens in several stages.

Evaluation

Treatment for addiction and mental health is offered in several levels of care. People’s needs differ significantly and having the opportunity to find a program that fits is essential. The levels of care include:

Outpatient treatment
Inpatient care
Residential treatment
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs)
Medically-supervised detox

Before beginning treatment, a mental health or medical professional will evaluate your needs and recommend a level of care. Their assessment will include questions about your mental health, physical health, substance use, treatment history, and other vital information.

Many people start in one level of care and move on to others as their symptoms and skills change.

Detox

When a person’s body becomes dependent on drugs or alcohol, they may experience withdrawal symptoms when they suddenly stop using these substances. Many people begin treatment for addiction and mental health by completing a medically-supervised detox program. During detox, medical and support staff monitor patients and treat them for uncomfortable or dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Treatment during detox includes medications, emotional support, and holistic care to keep people comfortable.

Treatment

After completing detox, people begin programs that include counseling for addiction and mental health. A combination of evidence-based and holistic treatments provide the support, skills, and healing people need to overcome addiction and work toward a healthy, sober lifestyle. Treatment plans often include:

Individual counseling
Group therapy
Family therapy
Medications
Mental health treatment
Medical care
Education
Holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness, art and music therapy, and nutrition counseling

The length of time and level of care a person requires depends on the length and severity of their addiction and mental illness and other factors. Someone who begins in an inpatient program may move to a lower level of care, such as outpatient treatment or a partial care program.

Aftercare

People who live with mental illness and substance abuse or addiction must remain active in their recovery and manage the symptoms of both conditions for the rest of their lives. Treatment for addiction and mental illness often includes developing an aftercare plan that allows people to stay committed to sobriety for life.

Get Help Now

Seeking treatment for addiction and mental health at the same time can reduce your risk for relapse. If you or someone you love requires dual diagnosis treatment or support during recovery, reach out to the Woburn Addiction Treatment addiction specialists today.

References:

Can My Boss Fire Me for Going to Rehab?

Posted on October 13, 2022August 1, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

Addiction is a chronic and progressive condition that makes it difficult for you to focus on anything other than drugs or alcohol. If you struggle with substance abuse issues, you are not alone. According to the National Institutes of Health, 10% of American adults struggle with a substance use disorder at some point in their lives.[1]

When you suffer from addiction, it can negatively impact every aspect of your life. Receiving professional treatment is the only way to make a full recovery from substance abuse issues. Unfortunately, 75% of people who suffer from addiction never get the help they need.[1]

Oftentimes, people avoid attending drug and alcohol rehab because they are afraid of losing their jobs. If you are currently dealing with the effects of addiction and refraining from getting the help you need out of fear of getting fired, you must be aware of the protections in place. There are laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) that prevent your employer from being able to fire you for going to rehab.

Can You Get Fired For Going to Rehab?

For years, there has been a stigma surrounding alcoholism and drug addiction. While some people may still perpetuate this stigma, the general public is beginning to understand that substance use disorder is a disease that requires professional help. Advancements in science and understanding have made it easier for people who suffer from drug addiction to get the help they need.

Because the attitude surrounding addiction is beginning to improve, there are now laws in place that protect you from being fired from your job for going to rehab. These include:

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles you to 12 weeks of unpaid medical leave if you meet the eligibility criteria. Because addiction is recognized as a diagnosable mental illness, you can use the FMLA to take unpaid leave without worrying about losing your job. However, you must consider the eligibility criteria before relying on this law.

To be eligible to use the FMLA to go to rehab, you must:

Work for a covered employer
Have worked for your employer for at least 12 months
Have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12 months before taking leave
Be employed by a company with at least 50 employees within 75 miles

Thankfully, it is extremely likely that you will meet these criteria. If you are wondering what a covered employer is, the U.S. Department of Labor defines this as a:[2]

Private-sector employer, with 50 or more employees in 20 or more workweeks in the current or preceding calendar year, including a joint employer or successor in interest to a covered employer;
Public agency, including a local, state, or Federal government agency, regardless of the number of employees it employs; or
Public or private elementary or secondary school, regardless of the number of employees it employs.

If you qualify and work for a covered employer, you cannot get fired for going to rehab, but you won’t receive a paycheck while taking your 12 weeks of medical leave.

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)

While most people meet the criteria for the FMLA, if you work for a small business you might not. Luckily, there is another law that prevents you from being fired for attending addiction treatment.

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prevents employees from being fired due to a disability.[3] Under this law, addiction is considered a disability, and employers are not permitted to fire you for taking time off to receive treatment.

However, it is important to note that if you are found to be using alcohol or drugs while you are working, the ADA does not protect you from being fired. The ADA is only useful if you are looking to take time off to attend addiction treatment.

How to Talk to Your Boss About Going to Rehab

If you intend on using either the FMLA or the ADA to take time off for drug and alcohol rehab, you are required to notify your employer. While speaking to your boss about attending addiction treatment can be scary and intimidating, planning what to say can make this process a bit easier.

When talking to your boss about going to rehab, you should:

Explain to your employer that you have a medical condition that requires inpatient medical treatment
Inform your employer that your condition is hindering your ability to perform at work and receiving treatment will improve your performance
Be upfront about your medical condition and ensure that you are prepared to show medical records corroborating your need for professional treatment
If your employer is hesitant on providing you with time off, explain to them that you have looked into the FMLA and ADA
Apologize to them for any inconvenience and reassure them that this process will allow you to return as a better employee

Overall, receiving professional treatment for your substance use disorder takes priority over your job. Addiction can lead to an array of long-term health consequences, many of which are life-threatening. If your employer gives you a hard time about getting the help you need, the FMLA and ADA protect you from being fired.

Start Your Recovery Today

At Woburn Wellness, we prioritize the needs of our clients by offering highly individualized care and only using evidence-based addiction treatment methods. Learn more about how our top-rated drug and alcohol rehab center can help you achieve recovery by contacting us today.

References:

4 Signs You Can Benefit From Outpatient Alcohol Rehab

Posted on October 3, 2022August 1, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

In 2019, nearly 14.5 million people struggled with an addiction to alcohol.[1] Alcohol addiction is harmful to your mental, physical, and emotional health, and it can also hurt the people closest to you. Without treatment, alcoholism may continue to progress, getting more and more severe over time.

One of the most popular alcohol treatment options is outpatient rehab. Outpatient alcohol rehab allows you to receive comprehensive treatment without the requirement of living at the facility. This means you can stop drinking while living at home, taking care of your family, working, or going to school.

Outpatient rehab is a flexible and affordable treatment option, but it isn’t right for everyone. Here are four signs that you can benefit from outpatient alcohol rehab.

1. You have a mild alcohol use disorder (AUD)

Alcohol addiction is different for everyone. Some people have more severe drinking problems than others. In fact, alcohol use disorder (AUD) is diagnosed on a scale of mild, moderate, and severe. If you have mild AUD, you may not meet the diagnostic criteria for inpatient rehab, meaning you can benefit from outpatient alcohol rehab, instead.

Mild AUD means having only 2-3 symptoms on the following list within a 12-month period of time. If you have 4 to 5 symptoms you have a moderate AUD, and if you have more than 5 symptoms you have a severe AUD.[2]

Drinking alcohol in larger amounts or for longer than you’re meant to.
Wanting to cut down or stop drinking but not managing to.
Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from drinking.
Cravings and urges to drink.
Not managing to do what you should at work, home, or school because of alcohol use.
Continuing to drink, even when it causes problems in relationships.
Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of alcohol use.
Abusing alcohol again and again, even when it puts you in danger.
Continuing to drink, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by alcohol.
Needing more alcohol to get the effect you want (tolerance).
Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by drinking.

If you have moderate to severe AUD, you may benefit more from a residential program that offers intensive support.

2. You want to stop drinking, but you can’t go to inpatient rehab

Even when inpatient rehab is the best choice, it isn’t always the most realistic choice. Single parents who are their childs’ sole caregivers may not be able to go to a residential program because their kids depend on them. Employees who do not qualify for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) may not realistically be able to take time off work while keeping their job if they go to inpatient rehab. Similarly, high school or college students may be unwilling to step away from their academic careers to get treatment.

Regardless of the situation, it is common for people to be unable to attend an inpatient program but still have the desire to stop drinking.

Although outpatient alcohol rehab is less intensive than inpatient, outpatient rehab is highly effective when you attend all therapy sessions and take your therapist’s suggestions. It may be harder to avoid relapse for some people, but it is certainly possible. If you are someone who cannot or will not go to inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab is a great alternative for you.

3. You’re struggling with the transition from inpatient treatment to life in recovery

Adjusting to life in sobriety is difficult, and it takes some getting used to. If you have spent any amount of time in an inpatient detox or treatment facility, you likely adjusted to staying sober in a supervised setting.

When you suddenly leave treatment, you may feel scared, overwhelmed, and worried. You may face numerous triggers that make you want to drink again or new challenges that are difficult to navigate. It is not uncommon for people to require additional support in the early weeks and months after rehab.

If you need continued support and guidance after completing detox and inpatient rehab, you can benefit greatly from an outpatient alcohol rehab program. Outpatient rehab can help you process difficult situations, work through distressing emotions, and practice effective relapse prevention strategies.

4. You experienced a brief lapse in your sobriety

Relapse doesn’t always mean going on a full-blown, months-long bender. For some people, it can mean binge drinking on a single night and continuing to crave alcohol or drinking for a short period of time. If you relapse briefly and don’t need detox, you may be able to get back on track successfully with an outpatient alcohol treatment program.

Outpatient rehab focuses on relapse prevention and healthy coping skills, so it can help you identify the cause of your relapse, understand the progression of your relapse, and learn how to prevent another relapse in the future.

Find out if Outpatient Alcohol Rehab is Right for You

Outpatient rehab may not be right for everyone, so it’s important to consult with an addiction specialist about your situation. When you call Woburn Wellness, a team member will begin the initial intake process by gathering information about you and your drinking history as well as your treatment goals so we can refer you to the appropriate level of care.

Woburn Wellness offers a number of accredited outpatient alcohol rehab programs, including day treatment, intensive outpatient (IOP), evening IOP, and standard outpatient (OP). Speak with a team member today to find out which program is right for you.

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How to Choose the Right Opioid Rehab Center Near You

Posted on September 28, 2022August 1, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

If you or someone you love struggles with opioid addiction, the best thing you can do is seek professional help. An opioid rehab center near you can help you identify the root causes of your addiction, adopt healthy coping skills, and develop a support system that can help you achieve long-term recovery.

Where you go to rehab is important and can influence the overall outcome of your recovery. At Woburn Wellness, our dedicated admissions counselors are available 24 hours a day to take your call, assess your needs, and help you choose the right opioid addiction treatment program for you.

Understanding Opioid Addiction

In 2020, an estimated 2.7 million people aged 12 or older in the United States had an opioid use disorder (OUD).[1] Regardless of if the addiction is to illicit opioids like heroin or fentanyl or if it is to prescription opioids, opioid addiction can be devastating.

The earlier you recognize an opioid addiction and seek treatment, the easier it is to get sober and avoid long-term consequences. Signs of opioid addiction include:

Inability to control or moderate opioid use
Multiple failed attempts at staying sober
Having symptoms of withdrawal when you aren’t using opioids
Drug cravings or intense desires to use opioids
Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
Developing a tolerance that requires you to take higher doses of opioids to achieve the desired effect
Spending excess time and money on using or buying opioids

Choosing the Right Opioid Rehab Center for You

Opioid addiction can be difficult to overcome, but your chances of staying sober are much greater if you receive treatment from the right rehab center. But how do you know what kind of treatment you need or what rehab center is right for you?

Consider the following:

How severe is your addiction? You may be wondering whether inpatient or outpatient opioid rehab is right for you. The more severe your addiction, the higher level of care you require.
Do you need medical detox? Many people who are addicted to opioids experience moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms that require medical detox services. Some outpatient programs will not offer detox, so you may have to make alternative arrangements for detox.
Are you seeking medication-assisted treatment (MAT)? MAT is an integrated treatment approach that combines medications and behavioral therapy to treat addiction. Some facilities offer MAT for opioid addiction, others do not.
Do you want to travel for rehab or stay closer to home? Some people choose to travel for rehab to get away from triggering people, places, or things. Others find it necessary to go to a local rehab program so they are close to family and friends.
Do you have a co-occurring mental health condition that contributes to your addiction? Opioid use disorder is often a result of underlying trauma or mental illness. Treating the root cause of your addiction is essential for your recovery. If you have a co-occurring mental health condition, you can benefit from a dual diagnosis opioid treatment program.

It’s most important to make the right decisions according to your needs. Examine your treatment needs and goals carefully before choosing a treatment facility.

Determining your needs can be near impossible if you are struggling with addiction and are not sure why. Speaking with an addiction specialist can help you gain some clarity. When you call Woburn Wellness, a team member will begin the initial assessment process to help determine what type of program is best for you.

What to Look for in an Opioid Rehab Center

There are several qualities you can look for in a facility for treating opioid addiction. These include:

Medical Detox

One of the first hurdles you will face when recovering from opioid addiction is detoxification. Detoxing from opioids is usually not life-threatening, but it is extremely uncomfortable and mentally distressing. Most people who try to detox themselves end up relapsing due to the extreme symptoms of withdrawal.

A reputable opioid treatment program will offer medical detox services or will work closely with local opioid detox facilities that can provide you with medical support in the early days of your recovery. Medical detox centers can prescribe medications like buprenorphine, lofexidine (Lucemyra), or methadone to alleviate your withdrawal symptoms.[2]

Individualized Care

Opioid addiction can affect anyone, and everyone who struggles with it has different life experiences, co-occurring health conditions, and goals. Everyone has their own unique needs for treatment, so it’s important that treatment is customized to meet your unique needs.

Avoid choosing an opioid rehab center that promises a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, look for highly individualized care.

At Woburn Wellness, we have a carefully selected group of licensed therapists, clinicians, and support staff members with decades of combined experience who worked together to develop a program of recovery that is unique in its effectiveness – one that is custom-tailored to the unique needs and clinical requirements of each individual client.

Licensing & Accreditation

Opioid addiction can be deadly, and more than 136 people die every day from an overdose involving opioid drugs.[3] Getting treatment can be life-saving, so you want to choose the best opioid rehab center possible.

One way to ensure the quality of care is to look for a rehab center that is state-licensed and third-party accredited. Accreditation from either the Joint Commission (JCAHO) or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) are the two most renowned addiction treatment accrediting bodies.

Aftercare Support

Aftercare is an essential part of the recovery process. Without comprehensive aftercare and active engagement in a recovery community, opioid relapse may be imminent. The best opioid addiction treatment centers offer various forms of aftercare support such as employment assistance, alumni programs, and sober living homes.

Woburn Wellness helps individuals achieve long-term sobriety from opioids with individually-tailored aftercare support. Not only will our treatment team help individuals navigate their legal obligations but they will also address each individual’s education, employment, living situation, relationships, and any other aspect of their life that may impact their recovery.

Find an Opioid Rehab Center in Massachusetts Today

If you or someone you love has been suffering at the hands of an opioid abuse disorder of any severity, Woburn Wellness Addiction Treatment is available to help.

Our comprehensive and highly individualized program of opioid rehab in Woburn, MA is unlike any other in the area. Not only does our opioid rehab program have a completion rate 150 percent higher than the national average, but our team of experienced clinical professionals has developed an integrated program that focuses on 12-step immersion, intensive therapeutic intervention, a holistic approach to wellness, and thorough aftercare planning.

The first step is to pick up the phone and ask for help. Call now to speak with a qualified admissions counselor at Woburn Wellness.

References:

4 Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Massachusetts

Posted on September 21, 2022August 16, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

4 Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Massachusetts

Struggling with drug addiction or alcoholism is always difficult. However, dealing with a substance use disorder becomes even more challenging when you suffer from more than one issue. Recovery from two or more conditions, whether it’s addiction or a mental illness, requires an intensive and highly customized treatment program.

When you have a mental health condition and suffer from addiction, that is referred to as having co-occurring disorders. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “7.7 million adults have co-occurring mental and substance use disorders.”[1] Because comorbid addiction and mental illness is so common, dual diagnosis treatment programs were created to help you and other individuals who need support.

Dual diagnosis programs use an integrated approach to addiction and mental health treatment. These programs combine evidence-based addiction treatment techniques with mental health recovery practices to create a program that can address any and all of your co-occurring disorders at one time.

Four benefits of attending dual diagnosis treatment in Massachusetts are:

1. Uncovering the Root Causes of Your Addiction

In most cases, substance abuse issues are caused by underlying mental health issues and unresolved childhood trauma. According to research posted by the National Library of Medicine, “Early traumatic experience may increase risk of substance use disorders (SUDs) because of attempts to self-medicate or to dampen mood symptoms associated with a dysregulated biological stress response.”[2]

If you are going into a dual diagnosis program, you may not be aware of which mental health conditions or traumatic experiences contributed to the development of your addiction.

A dual diagnosis treatment program will provide you with the therapy you need to unpack the root causes of your addiction. This is an extremely vital aspect of substance abuse recovery, as treating the root cause of your substance abuse issues is the only way to ensure that you will not suffer from a relapse in the future.

2. Integrated Treatment for Addiction and Mental Health

Dual diagnosis treatment centers in Massachusetts use an integrated approach that combines mental health and addiction treatment methodologies. By addressing both your addiction and mental health conditions, you increase your chances of long-term sobriety and recovery. After all, it is very difficult to stay sober if you are still dealing with untreated mental health symptoms.

When you are forced to recover from your addiction before receiving care for your mental health condition, you are denied the chance to truly recover. To explain, it is common for people to abuse substances and develop an addiction as a result of self-medication. As your symptoms of your mental illness arise, you begin to use drugs or alcohol to calm them.

If you do not treat the underlying mental illness, you will continue to feel the need to self-medicate, but dual diagnosis treatment centers address both your addiction and your mental health condition at the same time..

3. Learning New and Effective Coping Skills

Healthy coping strategies help you deal with difficult situations or emotions healthily and productively. When you do not have healthy coping skills, your negative emotions become extremely difficult to navigate. This is often the reason why you begin to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.

During a dual diagnosis program in Massachusetts, you will learn new and effective coping skills that work for you. The benefits you will experience by learning these skills include:

Lowered levels of anxiety and stress
The ability to learn new things and accept change
Increased self-confidence
Reduced health risks
Lowered risk of substance abuse and relapse
The ability to effectively deal with and bounce back from negative situations and emotions
Being able to let go of your emotions associated with a negative situation

Everyone has their own unique way of coping, but it is important that you use healthy methods rather than harmful ones. Attending a dual diagnosis treatment center will allow you to learn how to identify negative patterns of behavior and employ positive coping mechanisms when needed.

4. Aftercare Services that Increase Your Chances of Long-Term Sobriety

Ordinary mental health treatment facilities or addiction treatment programs usually do some discharge planning to prepare for a client’s last day. However, dual diagnosis programs understand how difficult it is to transition from treatment to everyday life.

Rather than just having you sign some papers and sending you on your way, dual diagnosis treatment centers in Massachusetts provide you with aftercare planning services to increase your chances of long-term recovery.

Common aftercare services include:

Identifying triggers and writing a list of coping mechanisms to use in each possible situation
Alumni programs you can attend to stay in touch with your treatment program and fellow patients
A list of recommended self-help and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery
Continued therapy and medication management
Referrals to sober living programs can help ease the transition from treatment to normal life

Aftercare services are designed to help you cope with your mental health conditions and avoid resorting back to addiction when times get tough. Aftercare can prevent you from experiencing an unnecessary relapse and help you learn how to cope with everyday life after treatment.

Get The Care You Need and Deserve

Woburn Wellness Addiction Treatment is a leader in the addiction treatment field, with proven success in facilitating long-term recovery. Our team of top clinical & medical experts specializes in treating addiction coupled with mental illness, ensuring that each person receives individualized care. Call us – we’re available 24/day, 7 days/week.

Get Connected With a Top-Rated Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center in Massachusetts Today

If you or a loved one suffer from addiction and a co-occurring mental health condition, help is available. Going to a dual diagnosis treatment center can allow you to receive the support and treatments you need to recover from both conditions simultaneously.

If you are interested in dual diagnosis treatment, contact Woburn Wellness today. We can help you get back on track to living a happy and healthy life. Call now to get started.

References:

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MEDICALLY REVIEWED BY

Inessa Maloney, MS, LMHC
Clinical Director

Learn about Inessa Maloney

Inessa Maloney, MS, LMHC has been dedicated to the mental health and substance abuse field for a decade, providing her expertise to guarantee quality and accuracy.

Specializes in outpatient services with a focus on substance abuse
Expertise in reality-based therapy, CBT/DBT, and motivational interviewing
Holds a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling

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What to Expect When Seeking Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Addiction

Posted on September 19, 2022August 1, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an integrative treatment approach that uses a combination of medications and behavioral therapies to treat opioid addiction. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this approach can improve patient survival, increase treatment retention, reduce the risk of relapse, and more.[1]

Despite heaps of convincing research regarding the benefits of MAT for the treatment of opioid addiction, there is still a stigma surrounding this treatment approach. Some people believe that taking medications used in MAT is replacing one substance with another or that being in MAT doesn’t count as being sober.

The truth is that MAT is one of the most effective treatment approaches for opioid addiction and that it can save lives. Understanding how MAT works throughout the treatment and recovery process can not only reduce the stigma around it, but also help you decide if medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction is right for you.

Intake and Assessment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) begins with a comprehensive intake and assessment procedure. You will work with an intake coordinator to sign treatment consent forms and insurance forms, then you will meet with a doctor and addiction specialist or psychiatrist for an in-depth evaluation.

During this evaluation, the team is trying to gather all pertinent information about you so they can develop a tailored treatment plan based on your needs. In addition to a physical exam and routine blood work, you may undergo a psychiatric evaluation and addiction assessment. The physical exam helps the team understand the severity of your withdrawal symptoms as well as how you may benefit from and respond to medications. The psychiatric and addiction portion aims to diagnose any underlying mental health conditions, evaluate your previous and current mental health, and determine the severity of your opioid use disorder (OUD).

Once the clinical team has gathered all of your information, they will discuss a recommended treatment plan with you and help you begin your recovery.

Medically-Assisted Drug and Alcohol Detox

Opioid withdrawal is generally not life-threatening, but it does require medical support because self-detox usually results in relapse. A medical detox center can prescribe medications, such as buprenorphine (Suboxone or Subutex), lofexidine (Lucemyra), or methadone, to alleviate symptoms of withdrawal.[2] The doctor will prescribe whichever medication he or she thinks is right for you.

Many medications that are used to treat opioid withdrawal cannot be taken until 12-14 hours after your last dose of opioids, so it is important to be honest with your doctor about the last time you used opioids. Taking any of these medications too early can result in precipitated withdrawal.

During detox, your medications will be administered to you by a nurse each day, and you may be expected to take them under supervision. This aims to eliminate opportunities for medication abuse or diversion.

Nurses will continue monitoring your withdrawal symptoms throughout detox, which usually lasts 3-7 days. Once you are feeling better, you will transition to an inpatient or outpatient medication-assisted treatment program.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Addiction

MAT is used in both inpatient and outpatient rehab settings, but it always involves the same aspects of care, including:

Medication Management

Inpatient rehab centers will administer your medications to you on a daily basis, while outpatient rehab centers may send you home with limited doses or require you to check in to the clinic each day to receive your dose. You will also have regular meetings with your prescribing physician to discuss how the medication is working, any side effects or concerns you may have, and your progress in recovery.

Some people only need medications during detox, while others take medications for several weeks, months, or years. If you continue taking medication after treatment is over, you will still be expected to show up for regular doctor visits to keep receiving your prescription. You may also be asked to take a drug to test to confirm that you are not abusing drugs or your medication.

Individualized Therapy

Medications can alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce opioid cravings, but they do not cure opioid addiction. And, in order for medications to be effective, they must be combined with behavioral therapy and counseling. That’s why the majority of your time in treatment will be spent in group and individual counseling sessions.

Your therapy will be custom-tailored to meet your needs. For example, if you suffer from trauma or PTSD, you will engage in trauma therapies that help you heal from and resolve your trauma.

Types of therapies that may be used during MAT include:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Contingency Management (CM)
Family behavior therapy
Relapse prevention therapy

Therapy has many goals, including identifying underlying conditions, understanding thought and behavior patterns, regulating emotions, improving communication skills, and coping with distress. The skills you learn during therapy can be applied to your daily life, helping you improve your mental health and prevent addiction relapse.

Supportive Aftercare

Whether you continue taking MAT medications after rehab or not, aftercare is essential. Medication-assisted treatment centers may offer or refer you to aftercare programs like:

Alumni program
12-Step meetings
Outpatient counseling
Sober living

These services can help you uphold healthy habits, develop a support group, and prevent a relapse on opioid drugs.

Find out How Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) can Help You Beat Opioid Addiction Today

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) may not be right for everyone, but for those who qualify MAT can be a highly effective treatment option for opioid addiction.

If you or someone you love has been suffering at the hands of an opioid abuse disorder of any severity, Woburn Wellness Addiction Treatment is available to help. We have carefully selected a group of licensed therapists, clinicians and support staff members with combined decades of experience in the field of opioid addiction treatment who are dedicated to helping you recover.

Don’t wait any longer to start your recovery journey. Call now to learn about your opioid addiction treatment options.

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5 Ways Outpatient Rehab Can Help Single Parents Struggling With Addiction

Posted on September 16, 2022August 1, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

Being a single parent isn’t easy, but it’s even harder when you’re struggling with an addiction to drugs and alcohol. You may be reluctant to go to rehab because you are solely responsible for your kids or because of financial reasons, but there are flexible, affordable recovery programs that can help you.

Outpatient rehab is the least intensive level of care in addiction treatment. It allows you to go to a treatment facility several times each week for your scheduled therapy sessions, but you can do whatever you need to do in your free time. Outpatient rehab is a great option for single parents who are struggling with addiction.

How Can Outpatient Rehab Help Single Parents?

Single parents may be stretched thin when it comes to time, money, and patience. Many single parents do not realistically have the luxury of putting their lives on the back burner while they attend a residential treatment program. However, they still need to do what is best for themselves and their kids by seeking treatment.

Here are 5 reasons an outpatient rehab is a great option for single parents.

1. A Budget-Friendly Treatment Option

Many single parents are taking care of themselves and raising one or more kids on a single income. With high inflation rates and increasing prices of virtually everything in 2022, more people than ever are struggling financially–especially single parents.

Inpatient rehab can be expensive because you are paying for 24-hour care, housing, food, and more, but outpatient rehab can be extremely affordable. Outpatient rehab is also covered by insurance, so you may be able to get the majority of your treatment paid for.

2. Rehab During the Day; Time With Your Kids at Night

If you are a single parent, you may have to get your kids ready in the morning, take them to school, then pick them up at the end of the day before making dinner, doing laundry, cleaning, and getting everyone ready for bed. You have a busy day, so you may think you don’t have time for treatment.

Outpatient rehab can happen during the day or the night. If your kids are in school, a daytime program that allows you to go home at night can help you get sober. If your kids are too young for school, a nighttime IOP can provide you with a few hours of treatment in the evening while a family member or babysitter watches your kids.

3. Flexibility for Your Busy Schedule

Single parents frequently have to plan for the unexpected. A sick kid, a school event, or a parent-teacher conference can interrupt your plans last minute. If you go to an inpatient program, you don’t have the freedom or flexibility to tend to these kinds of responsibilities. However, an outpatient rehab will help you recover on a flexible schedule so you can take care of your family when you need to. Outpatient treatment is extremely flexible so you can find a program or therapist who works with you based on your needs and schedule.

4. Get Sober Without Missing out on Your Kids’ Lives

Even though they know deep down that the best thing they can do for their family is to get sober, parents may be hesitant to seek treatment because they don’t want to spend time away from their kids or miss out on their changing lives. In reality, continuing your addiction will cause you to miss out on far more than you ever would when going to rehab.

Drug and alcohol abuse makes you emotionally disconnected. While you may be physically present, you aren’t emotionally present when you are under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Whether you realize it or not right now, continuing your addiction will only harm your kids and your relationship with them.

Fortunately, you don’t have to miss out on your kids’ lives at all when you choose outpatient rehab. Due to the flexible schedule, you will have plenty of time to spend with your kids and watch them grow.

5. Family-Focused Recovery in Real Time

Addiction is sometimes referred to as a family disease because it affects everyone who loves the addict, including children. As a result, it’s important to involve your kids in the recovery process and learn how to be the best parent you can be.

Outpatient rehab centers typically encourage family therapy sessions to give everyone time to heal. They also teach you practical skills that will help your current situation in everyday life.

If you go to inpatient rehab, you won’t have as much time with your kids. This means you won’t have as much time to practice healthy skills in recovery or healthy communication with your kids in real-life situations. Then, when you leave rehab, you may face unexpected challenges when it comes to your family.

Outpatient rehab allows you to receive treatment on a limited basis while living at home with your family. You can apply what you learn in treatment to your life at home, see what works and doesn’t work, and bring your feedback back to the group during your next treatment session. Inpatient rehab shields you from the real world, but outpatient rehab forces you to integrate your recovery into your daily life immediately.

Find Out if Outpatient Rehab is Right For You

Outpatient rehab may not be right for everyone. People with severe substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health conditions may benefit from a more structured, residential program.

Woburn Wellness offers a number of adaptable outpatient rehab programs in the Boston area. Our Outpatient Program is beneficial to those living at home, at school, or in a recovery residence to help guide a person to a life of purpose. This level of care is ideal for people who are unable to take the time off from work or school but feel a need to engage in treatment to prevent the typical adverse events or escalation of maladaptive substance use.

Call today to learn more about starting outpatient rehab.

Where Can I Find Treatment for Oxycodone Addiction in the Boston Area?

Posted on August 29, 2022September 13, 2023 by Inessa Maloney

Where Can I Find Treatment for Oxycodone Addiction in the Boston Area?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 2.3 million people ages 12 and older had a prescription opioid use disorder in 2020 and nearly 16,500 people died as a result of an overdose involving prescription opioids.[1] One of the most widely abused prescription opioids is oxycodone.

Oxycodone first gained widespread popularity in the 90s when OxyContin was advertised as a safe, time-controlled release formulation of oxycodone. While the original formulation of OxyContin is discontinued, oxycodone is still prescribed and abused today.

Brand names for oxycodone that are abused today include:

OxyContin
OxyIR
OxyFast
Roxicodone
Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen)
Percodan (oxycodone and aspirin)

If you or a loved one are abusing or addicted to oxycodone, the best thing you can do for yourself is to seek professional help. Attending treatment for oxycodone addiction in the Boston area can be life-changing, placing you on a healthier, more positive life path.

Signs of Oxycodone Abuse and Addiction

Oxycodone has a number of side effects that may be apparent in people who are abusing or addicted to the drug. Behavioral and psychological side effects of oxycodone abuse include:

Constricted, pinpoint pupils
Increased itching of the face and/or arms
Mood swings
Intense relaxation
“Nodding out” or going back and forth between semiconsciousness and unconsciousness
Flushed appearance
Constipation
Drowsiness
Inability to stay awake

The more you take oxycodone, the less sensitive you will become to its effects. This is known as tolerance. Tolerance may encourage you to increase your dose or the frequency of your dose to achieve the high you desire. However, tolerance also leads to dependence. As your body gets used to having oxycodone in the system, it becomes unable to function normally without it. This results in symptoms of withdrawal that appear when the effects of oxycodone wear off.

Tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms are all signs of oxycodone addiction. However, those who are addicted to opioids may also exhibit behavioral changes, such as:

Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to try and get multiple opioid prescriptions)
Continuing to use oxycodone despite the consequences or negative effects on your health
Stealing or forging prescriptions
Spending excess time thinking about oxycodone, obtaining it, using it, and recovering from the effects of it
Making multiple failed attempts to stay sober
Engaging in dangerous or illegal behaviors to maintain one’s addiction

Quitting oxycodone by yourself can feel impossible, but you don’t have to do it alone. Oxycodone rehab centers utilize behavioral therapies, medications, and support groups that can help you recover from addiction and achieve a sober lifestyle.