In the United States, an average of 44 people die every day from opiate overdoses. These drugs – such as Percocet, Vicodin, Morphine, and Codeine contribute to the deterioration of brain’s function in recognizing pain. Beginning in the 1970s, Methadone maintenance for opiate addiction has been introduced to assist in addiction treatments. According to UCLA Dual Diagnosis Program, methadone is a better choice for patients who have severe opiate addictions. It keeps the patients from getting high on other opiates, such as prescription painkillers or Heroin.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

When continuously being used, physical dependence toward the drugs will often take place. If the drug is stopped, withdrawal symptoms may occur. Opiate prescription painkillers will also cause a high, the reason why most people become addicted to the use of these drugs. An addiction to opiate painkillers is considered one of the biggest risk factors for an addiction to Heroin. The experts at Yale’s Schools of Medicine and of Public Health have created a three-year strategic plan on fighting the opiate epidemic in late 2016. These strategies focus on preventing and treating the addiction to an opiate.

A medication-assisted treatment such a Methadone maintenance will be able to control a patient’s addiction. Although politically methadone maintenance for opiate addiction is still considered controversial, scientifically it proves that it is a better addiction treatment for both drug and alcohol.  On estimation, there are:

  • 25 percent of patients become abstinent
  • 25 percent of patients continue to take the drug
  • 50 percent of patients go on and off on methadone maintenance repeatedly

According to studies, patients who are medically-treated with methadone become less depressed, less likely to contract HIV or hepatitis and less likely to commit crimes. They are also more able to maintain a better social life and hold a job. As patients begin to feel healthier than before, a majority of them will self-refer themselves to social service agencies. This is to help them to get back on their feet.

Methadone Maintenance Around the World

In Indonesia, the methadone maintenance program has been established in the prisons in 2005. This program was created in order to help HIV-positive prisoners to be free of drugs they have abused. Patients who are positive of HIV also receive antiretroviral treatment for free. The distribution of condoms and bleach to clean used syringes and needles are also considered as part of the strategy’s components. Since the beginning of the program, 31 percent of prisons (around 139 prisons) in Indonesia have now provided voluntary counseling and HIV testing (VCT). Around 10 percent of prisons (40 prisons) are currently offering antiretroviral therapy (ART) to the prisoners. The Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) in Indonesia has produced great level of success rate.  This is considered a great start for a country like Indonesia where information on medically-assisted treatment is still aggressively needed to educate the addicts.

Methadone maintenance for opiate addiction in Hong Kong has been established since the 1980s. As a response to the increasing numbers in drug abuse, methadone maintenance program was started to deal with addictions. Some of the most important characteristics of Hong Kong methadone clinics include:

  • Non-judgmental approach which often includes the distribution of condoms and providing information
  • Each of the clinic attendance is affordable and will only cost around 12 cents
  • Open from early in the morning to midnight and seven days per week

According to a research, patients who are involved in methadone maintenance program in Hong Kong tend to show reduced levels of HIV risk behaviors and drug injections. Those who receive doses of methadone more than 60mg per day show they will less likely use or inject opiate drugs compared to those who take lesser than 60mg per day.

How Does Methadone Maintenance Actually Work?

It is often called as the agonist drug. The way Methadone works are by binding to the body’s opiate receptors. This will activate the receptions as what opiate drugs would usually do. In order to get Methadone medication-assisted treatment, a patient has to go to a certified treatment facility. Only doctors who are certified will be able to supervise methadone doses taken by a patient.

Methadone is usually offered in liquid, pill and wafer forms. It can be taken once a day and most of the time, the patient will be required to go to the clinic on a daily basis. A dose of Methadone will be able to provide pain relief of about four to 8 hours. For Heroin addicts, Methadone treatment is effectively working in higher doses. This helps them to stay in the addiction treatment programs longer. Every patient who is using methadone maintenance for opiate addiction must receive the medication under a physician’s supervision. Between the clinical visits, the patients may be allowed by the physician to take Methadone at home.

According to a publication Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide – 2012 by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the length of time in Methadone treatment varies from patient to patient. The minimum length is usually 12 months. Some patients may be required to use Methadone maintenance for years until they are completely opiate-free. To stop the Methadone treatment, a doctor will supervise the decision based on the patient’s continuous results. Even if a patient is certain that Methadone is no longer needed, the process has to be stopped gradually. This is to prevent symptoms of withdrawal.

The Advantages of Methadone Maintenance

The benefits of using methadone are far greater than other types of addiction treatment. Most of the time, patients are reported to have better success in Methadone treatment programs. Some of the benefits of Methadone maintenance for opiate addiction include:

  • An improvement in the quality of life especially related to work, study and family
  • A better improvement in social functioning
  • Reduction in activities related to crimes due to no longer using illicit drugs
  • Better chance at the success of a long-term recovery
  • Reduction in infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis due to no longer using injection drug abuse

Since there are no withdrawal symptoms when using methadone, the participation in the addiction treatment will become better too. There will be no distractions and the patient’s focus will only be on getting better and free from opiate addiction. Some treatment programs will allow the patients to take home certain dosages. Patients will usually be required to account for every dosage they have taken and to keep methadone in a locked container.

The Disadvantages of Methadone Maintenance

Even though Methadone maintenance for opiate addiction is highly recommended, they are a few side effects of taking the medication. These side effects tend to be mild and short-term. If you are experiencing any of these side-effects, you need to talk to the doctor who prescribed you immediately. Some of the side effects include:

  • Stomach ache
  • Constipation
  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Slowed breathing
  • Restlessness
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Itchy skin

Methadone dosages are usually able to be adjusted according to your needs and situation. However, it is still possible for patients to develop certain long-time side effects such as lung and respiratory problems. The Center for Substance Abuse Research (CESAR) at the University of Maryland also advised the side effects that can happen to women such as:

  • The changes or lapse in menstrual cycles
  • Pregnancy complications, especially for users who reduce the dosages upon finding out that they are pregnant

Even though Methadone is intended to treat an opiate addiction, the possibility of the patients to become dependent on Methadone still exist. An addiction to methadone is less likely to happen if the patient is continuously supervised by a doctor.

Patients who are allowed to take home dosages of Methadone have to comply with the rules stated by their doctors. This is to avoid them from becoming addicted to Methadone. Even though patients are prescribed correctly by physicians, there have been cases where patients developed tolerance to methadone. If this happens, it is recommended for the patients to consult the doctor who prescribed methadone immediately.

Defining Success in Methadone Maintenance for Opiate Addiction

Although Methadone still remains as a controversial approach toward treating opiate addiction, the successful rate of the treatment is still considerably higher than others. Many treatment centers in the United States and around the world still prefer to use methadone as a short-term detox drug. Unlike heroin, methadone is a long-acting opioid. The Western Journal of Medicine has explained in their article how methadone maintenance is still favored by most in treating opiate addictions.

The controversies come from the fact that some patients begin developing tolerance and dependence on methadone after using it for a long-term. For this reason, it is best for the patients to be prescribed with methadone only for a short-term period. As soon as the patients are considered opiate-free, the process of using methadone should be gradually stopped – as not to create another unhealthy withdrawal symptoms from methadone dependence.

detox symptoms

What To Do If You Miss Your Methadone Dose

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First things first, while it may be your instinct to panic, it’s better off if you don’t. There’s no denying the fact that it’s scary to realize your dealing with a missed methadone dose. The majority of people who are on a maintenance program end up missing a dose of methadone at least once.

Panicking about it, certainly won’t do you any good. Whether you overslept after a big day, or you failed to realize that the clinic was closing early for the holidays, chances are you may miss a methadone dose every once in a while. No matter why you missed a dose, just remember that you can absolutely get through this. You will make it on to the other side and you’ll be back in your routine of using methadone before you know it!

Methadone Clinic Hours

How To Keep Yourself Comfortable Until The Next Morning That Your Clinic Opens.

Once you’ve come to the realization that you’ve missed your methadone dose and there’s nothing you can do to get it back, it’s time to relax and put in an appropriate action plan together. You’ll want to keep yourself calm and comfortable until you can get back to your methadone clinic and get your next dose. Thankfully, one of the many benefits of methadone is that it’s a long-acting opioid, so most people do not experience significant withdrawal symptoms until a little after 36 hours. Even then, these withdrawal symptoms present themselves slowly and gradually increase as time goes by, but it’s unlikely these symptoms will become really bad by the time you can get into your methadone clinic and have your next dose.

So long as you drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated, and you do your best to relax whether that’s through reading or taking a nice bath or shower, you should be just fine. The key is keeping your mind occupied during this time so that your thoughts don’t wander to your drug of choice which could lead to bad decisions, relapses and even overdoses. Just keep telling yourself that you will be okay, and you’ll be surprised at how fast the time goes by and how strong you can be when necessary.

Things You Should Not Do if You Miss Your Methadone Dose

While there are many helpful suggestions as to what to do following the occasional missed methadone dose, you also need to remember that there are some things you should not do. First and foremost, you should never attempt to purchase drugs on the street in place of your methadone. That’s because it is highly likely that if you purchase any other type of opioid, it will not actually have any soothing effects for you as you’re on the methadone maintenance therapy in the first place. You’ll just be putting all the hard work you’ve put in at rehab, as well as your personal safety and wellbeing, in jeopardy. It’s never worth it.

Another thing you should avoid at all costs is double doses. Professional staff carefully measures each and every methadone dose to ensure optimal success and safety, and the last thing you should be doing is trying to give yourself a dose by your own set of rules. Once you miss a daily dose, you need to skip that day and carry on as normal the next day. It’s always a good idea to consult the medical staff at your trusted methadone clinic to get clear answers and instructions as to what to do. In cases where you miss your dose for two consecutive days or more, it’s possible you’ll need to begin again with a lower dose just to make sure you don’t suffer any adverse side effects or overdose.

What You Can Do To Ensure that You Don’t Miss Anymore Doses

You’ll surely be relieved once it’s a new day and you’re able to continue on with your methadone doses as normal. You’ll want to prepare yourself and make sure this doesn’t happen again if you can help it. To ensure you make all your methadone doses on time, you should take a few moments out of your day to read all of the signs displayed in the clinic. These signs are actually quite valuable resources for patients, and it will give you more details on the program and the particulars of these clinics. It’s also recommended that you communicate with clinic staff to better understand the schedule and upcoming events and holidays that may affect opening hours. If you do not have regular, reliable transportation, perhaps you can find a carpool set up so that you can get to the clinic easily. Other helpful tips include setting a daily alarm clock and keeping your friends and family in tune with what’s going on.

Just remember that even in the rare occasion when you may miss your methadone dose, you’re not alone and there are others out there in the same boat. You just have to hold your head up high, stay strong and determined, and remember that you can definitely make it out of this situation without abusing drugs again. For more information contact us at (855) 976-2092.

Sources

[1] Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2009. 6, Methadone maintenance treatment. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310658/

[2] Methadone | SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2015, 28). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/treatment/methadone

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When People Say Methadone Doesn’t Equal Recovery

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Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration shows that upwards of 2 million Americans are addicted to opiates such as heroin and prescription opioids like oxycodone (OxyContin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin). While some methadone clinics may have experienced some controversy over the years, generally speaking, methadone recovery treatment is one of the best things to happen to the healthcare industry in terms of addiction assistance and treatment. Thankfully, there are plenty of options for help and rehabilitation nowadays, especially compared to half a century ago when drug use was oftentimes a life sentence that ruined people’s lives in the blink of an eye. Although drug use is still just as painful and dangerous, if not more so, you can rest assured that every methadone clinic is designed to make a genuine difference in the lives of those struggling with drugs. Let’s take a closer look at methadone treatment, and what it means when people say methadone is not related to recovery.

The Stigma Related To Methadone

For decades, methadone treatment has been giving those hooked on heroin a new beginning by presenting a way for them to gradually get off of opiates with minimal withdrawal symptoms. It’s really been since the 1950s that methadone treatment first came onto the scene to treat opioid dependence. However, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for proponents of methadone clinics, as they’ve had to tiptoe around an unfair, and untrue, stigma surrounding methadone.

Essentially, for many years, there’s been a generalization and stereotype that methadone treatment can’t work because it involves replacing one opiate with another, which would mean that those in recovery are still receiving an opiate intake of some kind. Critics of this treatment have said that those on methadone aren’t actually in recovery, because they aren’t clean and they’re still on drugs in a sense. However, this stigma does nothing but harm individuals who could truly benefit from methadone treatment, which is a safe and highly regulated treatment that prepares people for greater success in their future recovery.

While it’s been a long road to prove the naysayers wrong, the sheer number of methadone clinics in the United States and the popularity of this treatment plan – coupled with the number of inspiring success stories – goes to show that methadone can save lives. The majority of people who have been placed on a methadone treatment plan have nothing but good things to say about the entire process, including how it prepared them for the rest of their rehabilitation journey and their pathway to sobriety.

Methadone is a fantastic option that has been proven to save lives. It’s a real shame that those who have something against methadone fail to acknowledge the many benefits, including the lowered risk for overdose deaths and minimized harm during the withdrawal and recovery process.

Why You Shouldn’t Pay Naysayers Any Mind

Like anything in life, there are unfortunately always going to be some negative folks who just can’t seem to see the other side. This is true for methadone treatment as well, and while it’s understandable for there to be some general concerns, taking a closer look at this health care option allows everyone to see that methadone programs have far more positives than negatives. No patients should ever feel bad or guilty for being on the methadone program, so long as the medication is prescribed accurately and taken appropriately.

Over the years, there have been many individuals who were saved by methadone treatment, which allowed them to finally break free of their drug-fueled demons and their heroin addiction that just kept holding them down.

Harvard Medical School reports that more than 100,000 Americans are currently on a methadone maintenance treatment, which just goes to show that methadone has and will continue to have an inspiring impact on many lives. So long as methadone treatment is always completed in conjunction with counseling, group therapy, health and wellbeing sessions and more recovery activities, then this health care method has a high chance of success and sobriety.

Methadone Isn’t For Everyone, But It May Be For You & That’s Okay

If you or someone you love is considering methadone treatment, it’s important to keep in mind that like any health care plan, procedure or prescription, it may not be for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. By having open and honest conversations with your doctor, you will find this whole process to be easier, and they will help to answer any further questions you may have before starting methadone treatment.

Generally speaking, methadone seems to work best for those with chronic pain, heavy, long-term users and individuals who can’t seem to stop using drugs on their own. This is because methadone can be adopted as a long-term treatment plan in some cases. The process of tapering methadone doses and gradually weaning a patient off of it needs to happen slowly, and that’s why it’s crucial to be of healthy mind and body while taking part in this treatment. This way, you’ll be more likely to reach your end goal and say goodbye to your dismal drug habits, once and for all.

Compassion is The Answer No Matter The Path to Recovery

Addiction is a disease, and it certainly isn’t an easy thing to go through for anyone. It’s essential that you remember that addiction is not one size fits all, and what works for some people may not work for others. It’s truly a shame that some people cast such a negative light on methadone when it’s actually been a highly reputable, life-saving treatment option for nearly 70 years.

Rather than passing judgment on others who are so brave to try and face their addiction head-on, compassion should always be the answer. Treating people with addiction with respect, courtesy and kindness is a surefire way to support them in their new journey, which may be daunting and difficult in many regards. Those who shame and look down on patients in methadone clinics are doing more harm than good. If you can keep the objectives of methadone treatment in mind, you’ll be more well-informed and better able to support and encourage anyone who’s been courageous enough to tackle their drug problem! Methadone treatment will be a crucial part of stemming America’s opioid epidemic and putting people back on the path to a better life.

Sources

[1] The N-SSATS Report: Trends in the Use of Methadone and Buprenorphine at Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities: 2003 to 2011. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/N-SSATS%20Rprt%20Trnds%20Use%20Methadone%20&%20Buprenorphine%20at%20SA%20Trmt%20Facs%20%2003-11/N-SSATS%20Rprt%20Trnds%20Use%20Methadone%20&%20Buprenorphine%20at%20SA%20Trmt%20Facs%20%2003-11/sr107-NSSATS-Buprenorph.htm

[2] Methadone maintenance treatment – Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings – NCBI Bookshelf. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310658/

[3] Harvard Health Publishing. (2017, February 8). Treating opiate addiction, Part I: Detoxification and maintenance – Harvard Health. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/treating-opiate-addiction-part-i-detoxification-and-maintenance

 

methadone maintenance treatment

How To Get Sober: 11 Ways to Finally Conquer Addiction

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Over 23 million people in the United States struggle with drug and alcohol addiction.

That number is horrifying in that it reveals the massive scope of the problems Americans face when it comes to physical and emotional battles with addictive substances. The number is also comforting, particularly for those who struggle with addiction, in that it lets them know they’re not alone

If you’re struggling with addiction and are reading this article, you’re at a critical point. Chances are, your struggles have you scared or at very least have you yearning to take control of your life again.

Our team is committed to helping you achieve that end.

Below, we’ve compiled a quick list of 11 tips on how to get sober. Our hope is that at least a handful of our suggestions will resonate and help you get your life back to where it’s meant to be.

1. Focus on Today

Many times an addicted person’s stress comes from lamenting on the failures of yesterday. They think about why they made poor decisions, what they’ve lost, and how their life could have been.

Retrospective thoughts like that are counterproductive to becoming everything you can be today.

Get your head out of the past and start focusing on improving your future.

2. Be Transparent with Family and Friends

There are few how to get sober strategies that are better than having family and friends support you.

Don’t ever be ashamed of your addiction in front of the ones you love.

Sit down with them and let them know what you’re struggling with and how you’re working to change it. Let them be proactive in helping you meet your goals.

3. Don’t Make Relapse Easy

If you’re addicted to heroin, alcohol or any other harmful substance, it’s important that you make access to those substances as difficult as possible.

Remove them from your home. Don’t walk by places where you know you can get your fix on your way to work or school.

The more distance you can put between you and addictive substances, the better your chances will be of getting sober.

4. Meditate

Meditation is a fabulous way of unpacking your thoughts and learning how to forgive yourself. It’s also excellent at helping you calm your mind which can assist in your sleeping better and reducing impulsive behaviors.

Learn more about mindfulness meditation and partake in free guided sessions today!

5. Develop Healthy Addictions

A lot of people learn how to get sober by getting their addiction fix from a more healthy source. Activities like exercise, being social, and more can all be fun habits you can train your body to crave and start devoting more time to!

6. Find a Better Circle of Friends

Most people who are struggling with addiction have a group of friends who also have addiction issues or at very least enable addictive behaviors. If you want to give yourself a real chance at sobriety, the best thing you can do is dump those friends and find new ones.

There’s a popular saying that says you’re only as good as your least successful friend. Make sure your “least successful friend” is somebody you can aspire to be.

7. Take on a New Responsibility

Beating addiction for many people can be about finding a new way to occupy their time. So, what are some ways you can start keeping busy?

We recommend finding a good job, taking on a side-hustle or adopting a pet.

Any one of those things can help you develop great new skills and will make finding time for destructive behaviors difficult.

8. Get Away from Triggers

Do you know what triggers you to want to use? For many, discovering triggers is a long journey that requires lots of introspective thought and therapy.

If you’re aware of at least one or two your triggers though, you can be proactive in avoiding them.

For example, does stress make you want to use? If so, when a stressful situation is arising, don’t be afraid to walk away from it.

One day you’ll have the skills you need to face stress and other triggers without needing to walk away or feeling the need to use. Until that day comes though, walking away is the best option.

9. Set Goals for Yourself

Figuring on how to get sober is a long journey people take day by day. Sometimes, when you’re hyper-focused on today though, it can be difficult to see where you’re going.

To make sure you’re making consistent progress towards the life of your dreams, set goals and do your best to always move towards them! Goals are a great way to keep you on the right path and away from relapse.

10. Don’t Worry About Statistics

It’s all too common that we hear of people who don’t want to try and recover because of the negative statistics they’ve read in regard to relapse and failure.

Let us be clear about this… You are not a statistic. You are a person.

Numbers have no power over you or your actions, only you do.

Ignore statistics and focus on being the best version of yourself every day.

11. Seek Professional Help

As you can see, there are a tremendous amount of ways you and the people around you can help stomp out addiction. Still, to make your sobriety come easier and be more durable, we recommend finding a high-quality rehabilitation program.

Rehabilitation programs provide those seeking sobriety with the professional help they need to get well medically and emotionally.

Wrapping Up How To Get Sober: 11 Ways to Finally Conquer Addiction

There you have it! 11 ways we believe you can help yourself conquer addiction.

Our recommendation if you’re wondering how to get sober is to incorporate as many of the above suggestions into your daily life as possible. We’re confident that by changing the way you think and the activities you partake in, you’ll start to move your life in a positive direction and leave your addiction behind you!

Do you struggle with an addiction to harmful opiates? If so, our team is here to help.

At Methadone Near Me, our aim is to provide those looking for solutions to their addiction with all of the information they need to find the relief they deserve.

Click here to learn more about methadone and find the help you need.

 

Sources

[1] Open Society Foundations. (2018). Defining the addiction treatment gap – addiction is a disease – let’s treat it that way. Retrieved from https://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/sites/default/files/data-summary-20101123.pdf

[2] Guided Meditations – UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center – Los Angeles, CA. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.uclahealth.org/marc/mindful-meditations

methadone maintenance for addiction

Addiction Solutions: What Is a Methadone Maintenance Program?

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The current epidemic of opiate and opioid addiction is tragic and destructive, controlling the lives of many. Escaping the hold of this addiction is often difficult or impossible to do alone. A methadone maintenance program offers hope for recovery so patients can get their lives back.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to opiates or opioids, methadone treatment may help. So how does methadone work? Read on to learn more about this maintenance approach.

What are Opiates and Opioids?

Opiates and opioids both affect the same receptors in the brain. However, they’re different in origin.

Opiates are naturally occurring compounds derived from the opium poppy. Both codeine and morphine are extracted from this plant.

Opioids bind to the same opiate receptors as opiates, but they’re either synthetic or partially synthetic. Fully synthetic opioids are lab-made chemicals. Semi-synthetic opioids result from the chemical modification of naturally occurring opiates. Hydrocodone, oxycodone, buprenorphine, and illegal heroin are all opioids.

Why are They Prescribed?

The legal forms of these are usually drugs prescribed as painkillers. They’re especially helpful with severe or acute pain, such as discomfort after surgeries or major accidents.

Sometimes these drugs are prescribed for chronic pain. While they offer effective pain relief, they also have the potential to quickly lead to addiction and dependency.

Opioid and Opiate Addiction

Opioids and opiates are highly addictive. The science behind their mechanism of action explains why addiction and dependency occur so quickly with these substances.

Both opioids and opiates bind to opiate receptors in the brain. They easily bind to these receptors because of their similarity in structure to naturally occurring brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Neurotransmission

Neurotransmitters are essential to nerve cell communication and when released they stimulate opiate receptors appropriately. This stimulation acts as a signal from one nerve cell to another. This is the way our brains understand and interact with the external environment. Our behaviors and reactions are changed or maintained as a result of this signaling.

Opioid and opiate drugs target the reward system of the brain. This system normally rewards natural beneficial behaviors so that we will be more likely to repeat an action. This is important to survival with activities such as eating, moving, and reproduction. However, overstimulation by drugs gives users an augmented euphoric feeling and encourages the repetition of damaging drug use behavior.

Dopamine, Opiates, and Opioids

Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter in the brain, delivering signals from one neuron to the next for proper brain function. It is present in brain regions that are responsible for regulating emotion, thought processes, motivation, pleasure sensation, and movement.

The binding of opiates and opioids to opiate receptors stimulates a flood of dopamine into the synapse, which is the small space between neurons (nerve cells). This dopamine flood creates a feeling of euphoria in users, especially in those abusing the drug.

These drugs can lead users into a spiral of addiction. Conquering this addiction can be even more challenging because of the physical dependence that quickly develops from opiates and opioids.

Physical Dependence and Addiction

Opioid and opiate addiction is usually a two-headed monster. It can take over a user’s behaviors and motivation, while additionally causing the body to have an actual need for the drug.

Physical Dependence

Physical dependence is marked by, requiring more and more of the opiate or opioid drug to achieve previous results.

This dependency is formed as the brain adapts to the drug and develops a tolerance for it. This tolerance requires the user to increase the amounts of the drug that is used in order to feel the same effects and prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal is an uncomfortable and often painful set of symptoms experienced by a user when these drugs are no longer used. Symptoms can include:

  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Muscle aching and cramping
  • Watery eyes and runny nose
  • Excessive sweating
  • Abdominal cramping and diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pupils that remain dilated
  • Unpleasant chills and goosebumps

Symptoms of withdrawal can often be avoided or reduced by tapering the dose until complete cessation can be achieved. This allows time for the body to adjust and recover.

In addition to tapering doses, other drugs can be prescribed to take the place of the drug that is being abused. In this pharmaceutical approach, prescriptions are carefully controlled and monitored for the patient’s well-being. One example of such treatment is methadone maintenance.

Addiction

Addiction is used to describe the point where users no longer take the drug to feel its effects. Rather, the drug is used to feel normal and avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Addiction affects the user’s ability to exercise self-control and make appropriate decisions. This is why those abusing drugs will so often continue to do so in spite of major life consequences.

Addiction is characterized by strong drug cravings, failure to meet obligations due to drug use as a priority, compulsive use of the drug, and a lack of self-control. Getting sober and overcoming substance abuse addiction is often difficult.

What is Methadone?

Methadone is an opioid that is prescribed for pain relief and for the treatment of opioid and opiate addiction. Its effects are similar to those of morphine. When used properly, it is an effective, safe way for those struggling with addiction to recover and regain control of their lives.

How Does Methadone Work?

Methadone stimulates the same opiate receptors as problematic drugs. It reduces the intensity of uncomfortable opiate/opioid withdrawal symptoms. It also inhibits the euphoric effects of certain drugs, making them less able to reinforce undesirable behavior patterns.

What is a Methadone Maintenance Program?

In a methadone maintenance program, patients are given a long-term prescription of methadone. This allows for brain chemistry to change gradually so that withdrawal symptoms and cravings are not overwhelming.

Because the brain is given time to recover and adjust, the success rate of methadone treatment programs has a much higher success rate and greater effectiveness than abrupt detox approaches. Most clinics administering treatment also offer to counsel for extra support.

Instead of spending time, money, and energy on obtaining harmful drugs, methadone maintenance allows patients to receive controlled, legal, dependable doses.

Methadone Maintenance Program Success

Facing addiction is a tremendously difficult feat. This is especially true for opiate and opioid addiction. Methadone maintenance treatment offers hope to those in the grips of addiction so that they can move forward and reclaim their lives. Get more information or help to locate a methadone clinic near you at (855) 976-2092.

 

Sources

Pain medications – narcotics. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007489.htm

The Neurobiology of Drug Addiction. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/teaching-packets/neurobiology-drug-addiction/section-iii-action-heroin-morphine/4-opiates-binding-to-opiate-rece

Opioids: cellular mechanisms of tolerance and physical dependence. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15661627

non narcotic pain management

Maintaining Your Sobriety: How to Manage Chronic Pain with Non-Narcotic Pain Meds

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A dependency on opioids can be one of the hardest ones to shake, that’s why non-narcotic pain meds are a great alternative. Many of the most addictive narcotics fall into the category of opioids.

It makes sense, then, that a person who has made the decision to get sober would avoid opioid pain medications at all costs. If you’re experiencing pain and need to treat it somehow, there are alternatives to opioids that you can explore.

These non-narcotic pain meds are non-habit forming options that keep you on the right path with your sobriety. After all, staying sober is the most important thing. There are also some methods for managing pain that doesn’t use any substance but does require that you put in some personal effort.

Non-Narcotic Pain Meds

We’ll cover both medications and methods of treating pain that doesn’t involve habit-forming substances. If you find your way here to learn about how to lose an opioid dependency.

1. Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is used for moderate to severe pain. It has been shown to decrease pain in patients recovering from surgery and reduces opioid consumption when paired with opioid medications.

The drug does still have some negative side-effects, though. Nausea, pruritus, and constipation have all been reported in some patients. The method of consumption can be oral, rectal, or intravenous.

2. Anticonvulsants

Typically used for neuropathic pain, anticonvulsants are a great alternative to opioids. This option is more specific to certain illnesses and should be taken at the request of a doctor.

If you’re near the point of being prescribed pain medication, ask your doctor about anticonvulsants to see if they would even be an option for your specific pain.

3. Ibuprofen

IV Ibuprofen is sometimes known as Caldolor. It’s a maximum-strength pain reliever that can be taken to treat pain on par with opioids on the market.

All levels up to severe pain can be treated with Ibuprofen. When you move to IV Ibuprofen, though, it’s recommended that you consult with a doctor about the dosage. This is because the substance has to be diluted before it is ingested, and the dosing requirements are relatively specific.

While it is not an opioid, it is still a powerful drug when taken at high doses. Just because you can buy small amounts over the counter doesn’t mean the substance shouldn’t be taken seriously.

4. Reuptake Inhibitors

SSRIs and SNRIs can be taken to treat a number of things. They are most commonly used to treat mental illnesses, as they regulate the chemicals in the brain to achieve a healthier balance.

That being said, they can be used to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain. The primary known side-effect is nausea.

Pain Management Methods

We’ll now cover a few of the methods of pain management that you can use independently, or in conjunction with one of the medications listed above.

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a technique that involves placing very small needles into your skin to disrupt the nerve pathways that communicate pain throughout the body. This is a great way on how to deal with physical pain relieves pain in addition to a number of other side effects that are also conducive to recovery.

It is known to reduce your stress, pain in your neck, spine, and back, slow headaches, and improve your immune system. It’s certainly an option to consider even if you don’t have severe pain to address.

2. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy seeks to address the specific muscles and areas in your body that are experiencing pain. It is seen as the most direct, healthy approach to reducing pain.

If you’re experiencing pain as a result of muscular issues or surgery, physical therapy should be on your calendar. Working with professionals who understand the style and pace of rehabilitation that your muscles need is invaluable.

3. Massage Therapy

Sometimes the key to reducing pain and tension in our muscles is having them focused on. Massage therapists can access specific muscles and work the tension.

Make sure to get a deep-tissue massage, and keep at it for a few weeks to see if there is any improvement. Our muscles lie in a very interconnected network, so as one improves, more will follow.

4. Relaxation Techniques

There are a whole host of pseudo-scientific relaxation programs out there. There are, on the other hand, a number of methods that have worked on people for centuries.

Some of the pain and tension you’re experiencing could come from the fact that you are generally tense in your day-to-day life. Working on relaxation could prompt you to act in a way that causes less stress on your mind and body.

Consider meditation for starters. Practicing meditation correctly allows your body to enter a completely relaxed state, and your mind follows by being observant. Being able to notice your symptoms and learn how to use meditation for pain tolerance instead of trying to cover it up immediately can be extremely beneficial.

If only for the fact that you will have a stronger awareness of what it is that your body is going through, meditation will prove to be beneficial. You could also try relaxing in a sauna, taking a few days off from work, or going for regular walks.

5. Staying Healthy

Keeping your body in good shape is a great way to prevent a lot of pain in the first place. Whether it’s our muscles, our internal organs, or our mental health, exercise benefits each one.

Try to prevent muscular pains by doing a comprehensive stretch each morning. Focus on each muscle group and make sure to take it slow without rushing. This alone will free up a lot of tension in your entire body.

Further, try to do regular cardio. If pain prevention is your goal, you don’t need to worry about too much heavy lifting. Just do your best to stretch regularly and get regular cardio in.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re struggling with an opioid dependency, or want to know more about how you can stay sober by using non-narcotic pain meds, do your best to learn as much as you can.

We have the information you need to get informed and stay informed, so feel free to check out our information that can help with opioid dependency or pick up the phone and call (855) 976-2092.

 

Sources

Harvard Health Publishing Medical School. (2019, February). Relieving Pain With Acupuncture. Retrieved from Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/relieving-pain-with-acupuncture

Penman, D. P. Ph.D (2015, January 09). Can Mindfulness Meditation Really Reduce Pain and Suffering? Retrieved from Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mindfulness-in-frantic-world/201501/can-mindfulness-meditation-really-reduce-pain-and-suffering

 

why is mindfulness important

You Come First: Self Care Tips When You’re in Recovery from Opioids

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It is estimated that over 115 people in the United States daily die due to an opioid overdose. This is a staggering statistic, considering the fact that this cause of death is completely preventable.

Unfortunately, many people can’t see the spiral they are on as they become addicted to opioids. For those who know they have a problem and seek help, there’s no question that going to a treatment facility is a great first step.

However, you can’t become complacent and stop there. Another important part of addiction recovery is self-care. What is self-care and what are some self-care tips you can use while recovering from an opioid addiction?

We are glad you asked! Keep reading to find out.

What is Self-Care?

Before diving into types of self-care that can aid your recovery, it’s helpful to know exactly what it is and what types of self-care there are.

Self-care is a term that refers to the attitudes and actions you have and do that contribute to the maintenance of your personal health and well-being and that help to promote your overall development.

Self-care is not meant to add more to your already long “to-do” list and it isn’t an emergency response plan. It’s about taking care of yourself and helping ensure you achieve your goals – which, in this case, is to remain addiction-free.

Journaling Your Feelings

While this may seem like an overly simple task that isn’t really going to solve anything, there is actually something pretty therapeutic about writing. When you can spill out all the feelings inside, without the fear of being judged, you get the opportunity to acknowledge feelings you may otherwise keep hidden.

You may learn through your writing where your emotions and struggles are rooted. This gives you a boost and can help you take the next step in your recovery process.

When writing, it doesn’t matter how good you are with words. The key here is to write and get everything out. By writing about your feelings and trials, you can keep up with your recovery process, and may even find insight into why you stumble from time to time.

Take Time to be Alone

We live in a competitive, fast-paced world. It is often difficult to take time to be away from everyone – including your family and friends. However, it’s absolutely crucial for your recovery.

Even if you can only get away a few hours a week, it’s something you should put a priority on. This isn’t being selfish, it’s taking time to ensure you can continue on the road to recovery.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Everything, including the recovery process, feels more intense and worse than it really is if you are tired. It’s important that you try and get a good night’s sleep each night and speak to your doctor if you are unable to do this.

Don’t be afraid to take naps when necessary. Your body is learning to live without the chemical you had become reliant on, it’s only natural to be tired from time to time.

Limit Your Use of Technology

Today, social media is so integrated into your life that you often don’t realize just how draining it can be. It’s important to remember that no one is forcing you to take part in this.

Take some time to take a break and unplug. Doing so will put your mind at ease and reduce your stress. You may even find a hobby or something else to occupy your time, which is also beneficial to the recovery process.

Exercise on a Regular Basis

When you exercise on a regular basis, you are releasing natural, stress-relieving hormones in your body. These can help to improve your mood, and even boost your overall sense of well-being.

You don’t have to participate in an intense workout to get these benefits. Join a yoga class, go for a walk or even take a swim – all of these activities can help improve your overall health and are an essential part of self-care.

Eliminate Negative Self-Talk

While this can be challenging, it’s something you need to try to do. Make sure you pay attention to the thoughts you are having. If you begin thinking negative things, shut it down right away.

A tip to help is to imagine that someone is saying those things about a person you love. Doing this may make it easier to essentially “turn off” these negative thoughts.

Connect with Others

While it is important for you to take time alone, it is just as important to connect with others. Sometimes, when you are going through a hard time (like recovery) you may want to isolate yourself.

The fact is, knowing you aren’t alone is extremely beneficial. Try reaching out to someone who has struggled with overcoming an addiction in the past, or even talk to a professional.

There is no shame in speaking with a therapist. In some cases, having someone with an outside perspective help can be just what you need to begin taking better care of yourself.

Self Care Tips: Help Yourself

There’s no question that getting over an opiate addiction can be challenging and tiring. However, something you can’t overlook is the self-care tips found here. These can help you on your road to long-term recovery.

If you are searching for more information about treatment, and what options you have, we can help. Feel free to check out our article on how to use herbs for opiate withdrawal. We are dedicated to providing the information and resources you need, to overcome your struggle, reach out at (855) 976-2092.

 

Sources

Maria Baratta, P. L. (2018, May 27). Self Care 101. Retrieved from Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/skinny-revisited/201805/self-care-101

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019, January). Opioid Overdose Crisis. Retrieved from drugabuse.gov: https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids/opioid-overdose-crisis

 

methadone side effects

5 Methadone Side Effects to Watch (and How to Treat Them)

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Opioid addiction is a serious public health problem in the United States. Did you know over 115 people die every day from an accidental opioid overdose?

That’s a grim statistic. If you are suffering from substance abuse, it’s also a potentially personal outcome. This scenario, however, doesn’t have to be your fate.

Consider methadone treatment as part of your recovery process. It’s both safe and effective.

Like any medication, though, methadone has side effects, some of which are mild and some possibly severe. Below we’ll go over the 5 most common methadone side effects to watch out for. You’ll also learn how to treat them.

Read on for more information!

Facts About Methadone

Before discussing methadone side effects, let’s go over some general information on methadone treatment for opioid dependence. We’ll also see why it’s an effective treatment option for opioid withdrawal.

What Is Methadone?

Methadone was invented by German scientists during World War II. The Germans used it for pain relief when they were running out of morphine.

By 1947, methadone was being used in the United States. At first, it was seen as an all-purpose pain medication. It wasn’t until 1971 that methadone was approved as a treatment option for heroin and other opiate abuse.

How Methadone Helps Recovery

Today, methadone is one of the ways addicts can successfully gain recovery from opiate addiction. It blocks receptors in the brain affected by opioids. In this way, methadone improves withdrawal symptoms. It will also reduce or eliminate cravings.

The dread of withdrawal symptoms is a major reason why addicts are often afraid to enter rehab. By lessening or eliminating these symptoms, it also takes away a lot of the fear of recovery. The reduction of cravings is also a key component of methadone’s efficacy.

Like any drug, though, methadone side effects do occur. Let’s look below at the 5 most common ones.

1. Constipation From Methadone

First of all, take note: do not be embarrassed by this side effect. It’s common. Doctors administering your methadone treatment won’t be surprised one bit by your reports of problems in the bathroom.

Now, on to the facts.

All opioid medications, including methadone, cause constipation. It’s possible, then, that rehab patients had constipation before starting treatment. Poor diet or alcohol abuse may have masked this problem.

Alternatively, constipation can come with the methadone treatment itself. If that’s the case, this unpleasant side effect may be mild. Or, it may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks after beginning treatment.

Of course, if the constipation is severe, consult your doctor or healthcare provider. You may have an underlying condition that needs treatment.

Is there anything you can do to alleviate your methadone-induced constipation? Drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, and getting regular exercise can help. In addition, mild constipation may be relieved by an over-the-counter (OTC) medication. These include products like:

  • stool softeners
  • fiber products
  • enemas
  • suppositories

Be careful about taking a laxative during methadone treatment, though. Mixing laxatives and methadone together can cause an imbalance in your electrolyte levels. You could end up having problems with your heart’s rhythm.

As always, consult your doctor before beginning any medication during your methadone treatment.

2. Dizziness, Lightheadedness, Drowsiness

Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is common while taking methadone. This symptom often occurs as you rise from lying down. So, be careful when getting up! Rising more slowly may help you feel better.

Also, if you’re feeling extra tired, dizzy, or lightheaded in general, take the time to lie down and rest. That may help you feel better.

Please note, however: general dizziness or lightheadedness is a normal side-effect of methadone. If you experience extreme dizziness along with chest pain and fast or pounding heartbeats, call your doctor right away. These symptoms, on the other hand, could indicate a life-threatening heart rhythm disorder.

Serious methadone side effects are more likely in patients who are weaker or malnourished.

3. Nausea or Vomiting

Nausea is a common side-effect of methadone treatment. It’s also a normal part of the withdrawal process. Just because it’s expected, though, doesn’t make it any easier!

Always take your methadone dose with food. Whatever you do, don’t take it on an empty stomach.

If you feel nauseous immediately after taking your methadone, try sucking on a mint. Again, this symptom may go away after a few days or even weeks. If not, talk to your doctor about your methadone dosage. You’ll also want to make sure your upset stomach isn’t the result of a different condition, such as a peptic ulcer.

4. Increased Sweating or Perspiration

All opiates cause increased perspiration. Methadone is no exception and may be the worst of the bunch. About half of all methadone patients report increased sweating.

But, excessive sweating is also a symptom of opiate withdrawal. Make sure you talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing other withdrawal symptoms, such as:

  • body aches
  • nausea
  • stomach cramps
  • a runny nose

Your doctor may need to adjust your methadone dose if the sweating is dramatic. If it’s soaking through your clothes, for example, make sure to report that symptom. Your doctor needs to check for an alternative underlying medical condition, such as an overactive thyroid.

Common-sense measures can help mitigate profuse sweating. These include things like:

  • keeping your house cool
  • wearing loose clothing
  • losing weight

In fact, consistent exercise helps some people. Talcum powder and antiperspirants can also be applied, especially before bedtime. These tools may prevent the sweating from waking you up at night.

5. Headaches From Medication

Having a headache is another regular one of methadone side effects. Again, it should go away with time. But, if your headache becomes severe, you need to alert your doctor.

Wrapping Up on Methadone Side Effects

None of these methadone side effects seem fun. It’s true. They don’t, however, last forever, and, in the end, they’re much better than continuing down the dark road of opioid addiction.

Under proper medical supervision, methadone can make the withdrawal process much easier. It will also improve your chances of a complete recovery. That way, you can begin your new life.

We can help you search for safe and effective treatment options for your addiction. Please contact us at (855) 976-2092 today to find the best clinic for you. Please also check out our website for more information on methadone treatment for opioids.

 

Sources 

[1] Opioid Overdose Crisis – NIDA. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids/opioid-overdose-crisis

[2] Payte, J. T. (1991). A brief history of methadone in the treatment of opioid dependence: a personal perspective. – PubMed – NCBI. Retrieved February 15, 2019, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1765883

[3] Kosten, T. R., & George, T. P. (2002). The neurobiology of opioid dependence: implications for treatment. Science & practice perspectives, 1(1), 13–20. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2851054/

how to get sober

How To Get Sober: 11 Ways to Finally Conquer Addiction

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Over 23 million people in the United States struggle with drug and alcohol addiction.

That number is horrifying in that it reveals the massive scope of the problems Americans face when it comes to physical and emotional battles with addictive substances. The number is also comforting, particularly for those who struggle with addiction, in that it lets them know they’re not alone

If you’re struggling with addiction and are reading this article, you’re at a critical point. Chances are, your struggles have you scared or at very least have you yearning to take control of your life again.

Our team is committed to helping you achieve that end.

Below, we’ve compiled a quick list of 11 tips on how to get sober. Our hope is that at least a handful of our suggestions will resonate and help you get your life back to where it’s meant to be.

1. Focus on Today

Many times an addicted person’s stress comes from lamenting on the failures of yesterday. They think about why they made poor decisions, what they’ve lost, and how their life could have been.

Retrospective thoughts like that are counterproductive to becoming everything you can be today.

Get your head out of the past and start focusing on improving your future.

2. Be Transparent with Family and Friends

There are few how to get sober strategies that are better than having family and friends support you.

Don’t ever be ashamed of your addiction in front of the ones you love.

Sit down with them and let them know what you’re struggling with and how you’re working to change it. Let them be proactive in helping you meet your goals.

3. Don’t Make Relapse Easy

If you’re addicted to heroin, alcohol or any other harmful substance, it’s important that you make access to those substances as difficult as possible.

Remove them from your home. Don’t walk by places where you know you can get your fix on your way to work or school.

The more distance you can put between you and addictive substances, the better your chances will be of getting sober.

4. Meditate

Meditation is a fabulous way of unpacking your thoughts and learning how to forgive yourself. It’s also excellent at helping you calm your mind which can assist in your sleeping better and reducing impulsive behaviors.

Learn more about mindfulness meditation practice and partake in free guided sessions today!

5. Develop Healthy Addictions

A lot of people learn how to get sober by getting their addiction fix from a more healthy source. Activities like exercise, being social, and more can all be fun habits you can train your body to crave and start devoting more time to!

6. Find a Better Circle of Friends

Most people who are struggling with addiction have a group of friends who also have addiction issues or at very least enable addictive behaviors. If you want to give yourself a real chance at sobriety, the best thing you can do is dump those friends and find new ones.

There’s a popular saying that says you’re only as good as your least successful friend. Make sure your “least successful friend” is somebody you can aspire to be.

7. Take on a New Responsibility

Beating addiction for many people can be about finding a new way to occupy their time. So, what are some ways you can start keeping busy?

We recommend finding a good job, taking on a side-hustle or adopting a pet.

Anyone of those things can help you develop great new skills and will make finding time for destructive behaviors difficult.

8. Get Away from Triggers

Do you know what triggers you to want to use? For many, discovering triggers is a long journey that requires lots of introspective thought and therapy.

If you’re aware of at least one or two your triggers though, you can be proactive in avoiding them.

For example, does stress make you want to use? If so, when a stressful situation is arising, don’t be afraid to walk away from it.

One day you’ll have the skills you need to face stress and other triggers without needing to walk away or feeling the need to use. Until that day comes though, walking away is the best option.

9. Set Goals for Yourself

Figuring on how to get sober is a long journey people take day by day. Sometimes, when you’re hyper-focused on today though, it can be difficult to see where you’re going.

To make sure you’re making consistent progress towards the life of your dreams, set goals and do your best to always move towards them! Goals are a great way to keep you on the right path and away from relapse.

10. Don’t Worry About Statistics

It’s all too common that we hear of people who don’t want to try and recover because of the negative statistics they’ve read in regard to relapse and failure.

Let us be clear about this… You are not a statistic. You are a person.

Numbers have no power over you or your actions, only you do.

Ignore statistics and focus on being the best version of yourself every day.

11. Seek Professional Help

As you can see, there are a tremendous amount of ways you and the people around you can help stomp out addiction. Still, to make your sobriety come easier and be more durable, we recommend finding a high-quality rehabilitation program.

Rehabilitation programs provide those seeking sobriety with professional addiction help they need to get well medically and emotionally.

Wrapping Up How To Get Sober: 11 Ways to Finally Conquer Addiction

There you have it! 11 ways we believe you can help yourself conquer addiction.

Our recommendation if you’re wondering how to get sober is to incorporate as many of the above suggestions into your daily life as possible. We’re confident that by changing the way you think and the activities you partake in, you’ll start to move your life in a positive direction and leave your addiction behind you!

Do you struggle with an addiction to harmful opiates? If so, our team is here to help.

At Methadone Near Me, our aim is to provide those looking for solutions to their addiction with all of the information they need to find the relief they deserve.

Click here to learn more about methadone and find the help you need. Or contact us for help finding resources and treatment at (855) 976-2092. 

Sources

[1] Open Society Foundation. (2018, November 12). Defining The Addiction Treatment Gap. Retrieved February 15, 2019, from https://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/sites/default/files/data-summary-20101123.pdf

[2] UCLA Health. (n.d.). Guided Meditations – UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center – Los Angeles, CA. Retrieved February 15, 2019, from https://www.uclahealth.org/marc/mindful-meditations

stress relief in sobriety

8 Sober Techniques for Stress Relief Without Opioids

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For those who use drugs or drink alcohol, stress relief is a no-brainer. Crack a bottle of beer, light a joint, or pop a pill. Of course, as addiction to intoxicating substances takes hold, the individual’s stress level rises as they scramble to find and pay for their drug of choice, keep their habits hidden from family and friends, and watch their life crumbling before them. It’s a textbook example of a vicious cycle, and sooner or later people with opioid addiction will hit a bottom.

Once you have achieved sobriety, you may struggle to deal with everyday problems. Unless you have learned about sober techniques to keep stress in check, the risk of relapse is high.

Here are some good alternatives to drugs and alcohol that can help you banish stress and remain sober.

8 Sober Techniques for Dealing with Stress As an Addict

Which of these techniques works best for you depends on your interests, and it may take some trial-and-error before you find the most effective way to cope with stress. Keep an open mind and give all of these a try before you dismiss them!

Focus on the Moment with Meditation

Although the practice of meditation is ancient, in the Western world it has been soaring in popularity over the last few years.

Meditation and mindfulness emphasize living in the present moment, as well as accepting whatever feelings you are experiencing. This can be particularly difficult for recovering addicts and alcoholics who are accustomed to doing anything it takes to avoid their emotions. However, that’s exactly what makes meditation so valuable and effective as a sober technique for stress relief.

There are many meditation apps available. Check out Headspace and Stop, Breathe, Think. However, you don’t even have to use an app to harness the power of mindfulness or meditation as a stress buster. Simply sit still, close your eyes, deepen your breathing, and try to empty your mind. When thoughts arise, acknowledge them and bring your attention back to the breath.

From “Oh No” to “Ohhhmmm”

Yoga is a form of exercise that can run the gamut from gentle stretching to a vigorous workout. It is similar to meditation in that it asks the practitioner to focus on their breath. Yet yoga does much more than tone the physical body. It can be a truly transformative emotional and even spiritual practice.

Best of all, even a few minutes’ worth of yoga goes a long way. Once you learn some of the basic poses, you may find yourself doing them at intervals throughout the day, whenever you need a mini-break. Try some of the beginner videos offered by Yoga with Adriene, a popular YouTube channel.

Sweat the Small Stuff — Literally

If yoga and meditation aren’t your thing, how about a good, old-fashioned sweat session? Go for a run, lace up some skates, or hit the elliptical trainer. Working out is a wonderful way to recommit to your physical health in the early days of sobriety and managing stress levels.

Need a little help getting to the gym? Enlist a workout buddy who will motivate you to get regular exercise. And when your stress spikes or you’re dealing with addiction triggers, get your sweat on for immediate relief.

Take To the Natural World

Spending time in nature can be incredibly restorative for your mind, body and soul. Find a serene spot near the water or in the woods where you can retreat when your tension threatens to get the better of you.

You don’t need to backpack to Walden Pond to reap the benefits of the Great Outdoors, either; take a ten-minute walk and feel the sun on your face, or sit in a park and listen to the birds singing.

Tap Into Your Creative Spirit

Remember how it felt to be a kid, to open a fresh 64-pack of crayons and spend hours coloring or doodling? Guess what? That feeling is still available to you. Adult coloring is all the rage, largely because of how soothing and stress-relieving it is. So treat yourself to a set of colored pencils or markers and let your inner artist come out to play!

Many addicts find that bullet journals in recovery is a great way to track their mental and physical states and unleash their creativity. Of course, regular journaling is also immensely helpful as a relaxation technique. Writing and/or drawing your thoughts and emotions is one of the best ways to combat stress.

Give Back to Your Community

Find yourself with a lot of spare time on your hands? It’s a common occurrence for newly sober people; acquiring and taking drugs is surprisingly time-consuming. Why not put your time to good use by volunteering it?

Whether it’s walking dogs at the local shelter, mentoring at-risk teenagers, helping sort donations at a food pantry, or building houses for veterans, volunteering will do your heart good. Find an organization that needs a helping hand, and pitch in.

Lose Yourself in a Fictional World

Have you ever gotten so engrossed in a book that you’ve lost all track of time? Reading can transport you out of your own life and into another world — which is sometimes just what the doctor ordered.

If television or movies are more your speed, start working your way through that Netflix queue! Or try a podcast or audiobook to leave your hands free while you journal or take a walk. No matter what the genre, entertainment can be a godsend when you’re trying to take your mind off your own problems or chill out after a stressful day.

Spend Time with Sober Friends

Sobriety isn’t easy, and it’s nearly impossible if you are isolated and alone. Seek out the company of fellow recovering addicts, who will understand what you’re going through. By surrounding yourself with caring, supportive, and sober people, you increase the odds of staying clean even in your most stressful moments.

Support groups are a good way to find friends, of course. But don’t limit your social life to meetings. Meet a pal for coffee, make plans to go for a bike ride or a hike together, or invite friends over for a sober poker night.

A Few Final Thoughts

Stress is a fact of life, but by developing some good habits and learning what sober techniques for stress relief are most helpful, you will be able to ride out even the toughest times.

How do you like to relax and destress? Have we left any essential techniques off our list? Let us know your thoughts by commenting below! If you need help with an addiction to opioids, please reach out at (855) 976-2092.

Sources

[1] Yoga With Adriene | Free Yoga Videos & Online Yoga Classes. (2019). Retrieved from https://yogawithadriene.com/

[2] Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, July 13). Exercising to relax – Harvard Health. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax

[3] Bullet Journaling in Recovery. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.recovery.org/forums/discussion/8935/bullet-journaling-in-recovery

[4] VolunteerMatch – Where Volunteering Begins. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.volunteermatch.org/

Fundamentals of Methadone Maintenance

The Basic Principles of a Methadone Maintenance Program

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With the number of people who fall prey to Opioid addiction rates still climbing, there’s a good chance that you know someone who has had their life turned upside-down by these dangerous drugs.

Perhaps it’s you yourself that is currently struggling with an Opioid addiction.

When you’re ready to take control of your life again, you need to make sure that you detox the right — and safe — way. Quitting cold turkey can have serious health risks, and may even cost you your life.

What’s the solution?

For many, it’s a methadone maintenance program.

But what is methadone maintenance, and how does the program work?

Read on to learn more about what you can expect out of a methadone maintenance program, and to decide whether or not it’s the right choice for you.

What is Methadone Maintenance?

Methadone maintenance, which is sometimes known as replacement therapy, is a form of drug therapy and rehabilitation for those with addictions to opioids.

Those who seek it out are given methadone in a pill or a liquid form over the course of their treatment.

Methadone works to stop the effects of opioids and prescription pain medication. This means that, over the course of your treatment, your body will begin to crave these opioids less and less.

You’ll also deal with far less severe symptoms of withdrawal than you would quitting cold turkey, or in some cases, even in a more traditional rehab center.

Usually, those who try methadone therapy are people who have not been successful with a more standard detox process in the past.

It’s also given to those who are about to enter into a rehab center and need help getting over the worst of their withdrawal. A maintenance program will help you to keep your sobriety, and also lower your chances of contracting HIV as a result.

It’s essential that you only try methadone maintenance at a licensed clinic. This is because it is possible to overdose on methadone if you’re not given the right amount, or if you’re given too high of a dosage within a certain time period.

So, how do you find the right dosage for you?

Usually, that depends on your height and weight, as well as the kind of opioid you’ve been taking. How much of the drugs you have been using is also a factor in the amount of methadone that you’ll need.

Fast Facts About Methadone Therapy

Now that you understand the more basic principles of methadone, let’s make sure you have all the information that you need.

One of the reasons why this treatment is so popular is because of the high methadone success rate. In fact, anywhere between 60-90% of those facing opioid addiction have been able to come off the drugs thanks to methadone.

Whether or not they’ve been able to keep their sobriety is up to the individual addict, of course. However, a methadone maintenance program has been proven to help addicts jump-start their overall rehabilitation process.

You should also be aware that methadone will be able to stay in your system for over 50 hours. This means that you won’t need to take methadone several times over the course of a day.

However, you need to be aware that a methadone maintenance program isn’t something you can complete in a week.

For many, you’ll get the methadone treatment that you need over the course of a few years. In general, you’ll check in about every 60-90 days to see how your body is responding.

Remember that methadone treatment doesn’t help you to “cure” your addiction. It’s not meant to be a replacement for traditional rehab and therapy. Instead, view it as a way to safely complete the detox part of your treatment program.

Are There Side Effects to Methadone Therapy?

While we hope that we’ve illustrated just a few of the many benefits of methadone, we also need to make you aware of the potential side effects.

Some users report that they have side effects that are a bit similar to those associated with standard withdrawal from drugs.

This means that you may have a little trouble falling and staying asleep. You may also experience a slight uptick in your anxiety levels, and notice that you’re a bit jittery throughout the day.

In some cases, those enrolled in methadone therapy have experienced a loss of appetite and a lowered sex drive.

You may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.

You should let the professionals at your treatment program know you if you begin to have trouble breathing, or if you experience fainting spells and general feelings of lightheadedness.

Remember that the intensity and types of side effects that you experience while in a methadone treatment program will vary from person to person.

In general, you can expect the majority of these side effects to begin to fade or lessen after about two weeks in treatment.

So, the benefits of methadone certainly outweigh these potential side effects.

Interested in Finding a Methadone Maintenance Program?

We hope that this post has helped to educate you about whether or not a methadone maintenance program is a right choice for you.

Remember, while methadone will help with the initial symptoms of withdrawal, a maintenance program is meant to be a long-term solution to help you keep your sobriety.

You should expect to enroll in a maintenance program for a minimum of one year.

Looking to learn more about methadone therapy? Want to find the treatment program that’s right for you?

We can help. Contact us for resources and guidance at (855) 976-2092. Or you can spend some time on our website and blog to further understand how to take control back over your life.

 

Sources

[1] Kounang, N. (2017, June 30). Opioid addiction rates continue to skyrocket. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/2017/06/29/health/opioid-addiction-rates-increase-500/index.html

[2] Quitting Opioids Cold Turkey Made Me Want to Die. (2017, November 28). Retrieved from https://tonic.vice.com/en_us/article/xwan5n/quitting-opioids-cold-turkey-made-me-want-to-die