Struggling with a substance use disorder can feel overwhelming. It often affects every aspect of life, from physical health to relationships and overall well-being. However, recovery is possible, and one proven approach to treatment is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Medication-assisted treatment combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to address substance use disorders. This approach targets the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of addiction, reducing cravings, preventing relapse, and creating a path to stability.
Sterling Crossroads offers a MAT program in Mount Sterling, KY, that provides both support and hope for lasting change. Call 888.991.1476 to learn more about our behavioral health services.
Is MAT Right for You?
If you’re wondering whether MAT might be a good fit for your recovery plan, here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Have I struggled to stop using substances despite wanting to?
- Do I experience intense cravings or withdrawal symptoms when I try to quit?
- Have previous treatment programs failed to help me achieve long-term sobriety?
- Do I want a treatment that balances medication with counseling and other therapies?
- Am I looking for a personalized approach to recovery that considers my unique needs?
These questions are a starting point. Ultimately, determining if MAT is right for you involves discussing your history, goals, and medical needs with an addiction treatment professional.
How Does MAT Work in Addiction Treatment?
Addiction not only changes behavior but also alters brain chemistry. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on certain substances to function. Stopping use abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it difficult to stay sober. This is where MAT comes in.
MAT medications manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce the likelihood of relapse, and allow people to focus on the therapeutic aspects of recovery. When combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT helps people rebuild their lives. It’s not a standalone solution but part of a comprehensive effort to address the root causes of addiction.
Common MAT Medications and Their Roles
While MAT involves several medication options, the following are commonly used at Sterling Crossroads:
1. Suboxone
- Purpose – Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. It helps reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing the risk of misuse.
- How it works – Buprenorphine partially activates opioid receptors in the brain to ease withdrawal symptoms, while naloxone blocks the effects of opioids to discourage misuse.
2. Vivitrol
- Purpose – Vivitrol (naltrexone) is an injectable medication used for both opioid and alcohol dependence.
- How it works – Vivitrol works by blocking the effects of opioids and reducing cravings for both alcohol and opioids. Unlike other MAT medications, it doesn’t contain opioids, making it a great fit for people who want a non-opioid option.
3. Sublocade
- Purpose – Sublocade is a monthly injection of buprenorphine, specifically for individuals with opioid use disorders.
- How it works – By delivering a steady dose of buprenorphine over time, Sublocade suppresses withdrawal symptoms and cravings, freeing individuals from the day-to-day challenges of managing their medication.
4. Methadone
- Purpose – Methadone is one of the oldest and most widely used MAT medications for opioid use disorder.
- How it works – Taken daily under supervision, methadone prevents withdrawal symptoms and blocks the euphoric effects of other opioids, allowing individuals to function normally and focus on recovery.
Each medication serves a different purpose, and the choice depends on a variety of factors, including the substance used, the severity of addiction, and personal treatment goals.
Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment
MAT offers numerous benefits that improve the chances of long-term recovery:
- Reduction in cravings and withdrawal symptoms – By addressing the physical side effects of addiction, MAT frees individuals to focus on the emotional and psychological work of recovery.
- Lower risk of relapse – With cravings under control, individuals are less likely to return to substance use during their recovery.
- Improved stability – MAT provides the structure needed to rebuild healthy habits and routines.
- Better quality of life – Those undergoing MAT often report improved relationships, employment stability, and mental health.
- Long-term support – The combination of medications and therapy creates a more sustainable approach to recovery, addressing the root causes of addiction while managing its effects.
These benefits not only support the individual but also strengthen families and communities, contributing to a ripple effect of positive change.
Start Your Path to Recovery at Sterling Crossroads
Choosing to seek help can be the hardest step, but you don’t have to face addiction alone. At Sterling Crossroads in Mount Sterling, KY, our compassionate professionals are dedicated to guiding individuals toward recovery and healing. We offer comprehensive outpatient addiction treatment, including MAT, with options like Suboxone, Sublocade, Vivitrol, and methadone.
We strive to address each individual’s unique needs by customizing a treatment plan for each patient. Sterling Crossroads fosters a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you can focus on building a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Call Sterling Crossroads at 888.991.1476 or visit our website to learn more about our programs and how we can support your recovery. You have the strength to overcome addiction. Sterling Crossroads is here to help.