Cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and co-occurring mental health concerns can make the road to recovery from addiction a difficult journey. Many participants in a treatment program may struggle with staying sober, even after completing traditional therapies and counseling. Medications used as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program can provide additional support for long-term recovery.
MAT is a comprehensive approach that combines medications with behavioral therapy and counseling to treat substance use disorders. It is an evidence-based practice that has been proven to be effective in reducing substance use and improving outcomes among participants. For opioid and alcohol use disorders, MAT has been found to reduce overdose deaths and increase treatment retention rates. It can make it easier for participants to focus on overcoming the underlying reasons for their substance use, such as co-occurring mental health concerns.
Peer Mental Wellness offers medication-assisted treatment as part of our addiction treatment programs in greater Los Angeles. If you’re ready to get started with treatment for co-occurring disorders, call 714.844.5473 today to get started.
What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?
Medication-assisted treatment is a holistic approach to treating substance use disorders, specifically opioid and alcohol use disorders. This treatment approach combines the use of FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapy and counseling. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, MAT provides a comprehensive solution for those working toward recovery.
MAT can ease withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and restore balance to the brain circuits affected by addiction, allowing participants to focus on healing and recovery. The medications used in MAT, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, and relieve physiological cravings—all without causing the negative side effects associated with the abused drug.
Incorporating MAT into an addiction treatment plan is beneficial for several reasons. It improves participants’ ability to function socially, professionally, and personally, enhancing their quality of life. It also increases retention in therapy, reduces illicit opioid use, and improves participants’ chances of gaining and maintaining employment.
Importantly, when used in combination with therapy and counseling, MAT is a highly effective strategy for managing addiction and co-occurring mental health concerns, offering participants a pathway towards a healthier, substance-free life.
Benefits of MAT for Addiction and Mental Wellness
MAT is not only effective in treating addiction but also beneficial for mental wellness. Many people with substance use disorders struggle with co-occurring mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. MAT can help address these underlying issues by providing a comprehensive treatment approach that targets both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Just a few of the ways that MAT supports recovery and mental wellness include:
- Reducing cravings – Medications used in MAT can help reduce the intense desire to use drugs or alcohol, making it easier for participants to focus on recovery.
- Managing withdrawal symptoms – Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and uncomfortable, making it challenging to stay on track with recovery. MAT medications can alleviate these symptoms and support participants in staying committed to their treatment plan.
- Restoring balance to brain chemistry – Addiction disrupts the brain’s reward system and can lead to changes in brain chemistry. MAT medications work to restore this balance, reducing the risk of relapse.
- Improving overall well-being – By addressing both addiction and co-occurring mental health concerns, MAT promotes overall well-being for participants. They can experience improvements in their mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
When incorporated into a comprehensive treatment program, MAT can provide participants with the support and tools they need to overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery.
Call Peer Mental Wellness Today
At Peer Mental Wellness, we understand the challenges of overcoming addiction and co-occurring mental health concerns. That’s why we offer a comprehensive treatment approach that includes medication-assisted treatment as part of our program.
Call 714.844.5473 or reach out to our team online today to get started.
