Heroin/Opioids Addiction Assistance: Support Resources

Learn about the different support resources meant for both those struggling with substance abuse as well as their families in this blog post.

Watching your loved one struggling with heroin or opioid addiction can be distressing. You want to help them but don’t quite know how. To make matters worse, they are in denial and refuse to accept that they have an addiction or that it’s taking a toll on their lives.

When it comes to addiction, the first step toward recovery is acknowledging there’s a problem. Getting your loved one to admit this might mean staging an intervention. This can be done with help from a trained professional from the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery. We are a drug and alcohol rehab center in Kentucky that provides affordable, evidence-based addiction treatment to all who need it. We understand how difficult it is to watch your loved one battling addiction and can help them get better.

Unfortunately, opioid addiction is notoriously hard to beat, and to get better, your loved one will need to enter one of our treatment programs. We provide different support resources both for those struggling with substance abuse as well as their families.

Support Resources for Heroin/Opioid Addiction in Kentucky

Heroin or opioid addiction is challenging to overcome because these drugs affect the working of the brain and the central nervous system. They attach to opioid receptors in the brain and induce the CNS to suppress pain while increasing endorphin levels. This process can lead to tolerance, dependence, addiction and even overdose death as an individual keeps increasing the dosage of the drug as they chase the high.

We at the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery provide these support resources to help your loved one break free from this cycle:

Medical Detox

Before proceeding to a treatment program, individuals battling addiction have to undergo detoxification. This allows the body to remove all the toxins and other substances left behind by heroin or opioids. Your loved one will be closely monitored by our medical personnel to ensure that they are comfortable and that any withdrawal symptoms they experience are manageable.

Addiction Treatment Programs

After detox, they can proceed to either residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment or an outpatient program. These programs all employ individualized treatment methods to ensure long-term success in recovery. The therapies used include individual, group or family therapy

We also use cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals identify the thought patterns and habits that led to addiction and swap them with healthier ones that support recovery.

Relapse Prevention

As part of relapse prevention, we’ll teach your loved one how to recognize and manage their triggers and stressors. We’ll also teach them communication and life skills that will help them rebuild their lives and relationships.

Aftercare Program

Recovery from opioid addiction doesn’t end after rehab. This is why we provide aftercare services such as linking those in recovery with community support groups e.g. Narcotics Anonymous. These are vital in supporting and motivating those who’ve left recovery to keep living clean, sober lives.

If you’re looking for support resources to help someone struggling with opioid or heroin addiction, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Opioid Addiction: Treatment & Support Services in Kentucky

When it comes to seeking treatment and support for various issues, there are a plethora of options available, learn more about them here.

Opiates and opioids are some of the most commonly abused types of drugs in Kentucky, as well as many other parts of the country. Unfortunately, due to a lack of resources available for those struggling with opioid use disorder (OUD), too few people have access to the life-saving treatment and support services they need.

To help address this issue, there needs to be widespread awareness around all aspects of opioid addiction – from understanding its impacts on individuals’ lives to highlighting existing options for treatment & support services that exist in Kentucky.

Need for Treatment and Support Services

The opioid crisis has taken a devastating toll on individuals, families, and communities across the United States. As addiction rates continue to rise and overdose deaths mount, it is clear that we need comprehensive treatment and support services to address this urgent public health crisis.

While access to evidence-based treatments such as medication-assisted therapies is crucial, it is also necessary to provide compassionate and coordinated care that addresses the complex needs of individuals struggling with addiction.

By investing in effective prevention, treatment, and recovery services, we can support individuals in achieving and maintaining long-term recovery and mitigate the devastating effects of the opioid crisis on our communities.

Different Types of Treatment & Support Services Available

When it comes to seeking treatment and support for various issues, there are a plethora of options available to individuals. Some may prefer traditional therapy sessions with a licensed counselor, while others may seek group therapy or support groups focused on specific topics such as addiction or grief.

For those seeking a more holistic approach, alternative treatments like meditation, acupuncture, or yoga may be beneficial. Teletherapy options have also become increasingly popular in recent years, allowing individuals to connect with therapists and support groups virtually.

It’s important to remember that seeking help and finding the right form of treatment and support is a personal decision, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

An Overview of Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a type of treatment that combines behavioral therapy with medication to treat substance use disorders. MAT programs typically use FDA-approved medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone, to help people reduce their use of opioids or alcohol.

How Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Work?

MAT works by helping to stabilize patients and reduce withdrawal symptoms. The medication used in MAT programs can help to block the effects of opioids or alcohol, making it easier for patients to abstain from using these substances.

In addition, behavioral therapy can help patients to develop coping and problem-solving skills to deal with triggers and cravings.

What Are the Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment?

MAT has been shown to be an effective treatment for substance use disorders. Numerous studies have found that MAT can help to reduce drug use, improve patient retention in treatment, and decrease the risk of overdose. MAT can help to improve patients’ overall health and well-being.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Medication-Assisted Treatment?

As with any type of medical treatment, there are some risks associated with MAT. These risks typically occur when patients do not take their medication as prescribed or when they stop taking their medication altogether.

Some people may experience side effects from the medication used in MAT programs. However, these risks are generally considered to be outweighed by the benefits of MAT.

What Are Some Examples of Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs?

There are a variety of MAT programs available, each of which uses different medications and behavioral therapies. Some common examples of MAT programs include buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone), methadone (Dolophine), and naltrexone (Vivitrol).

Professional Counseling Services for People with Opioid Addictions

Professional counseling services have become an essential component in the management of opioid addiction. The number of people affected by this condition has been on the rise in recent years, and it is apparent that seeking professional help is critical in the path to recovery.

Opioid addiction is a complex disease that requires individualized therapy and support to achieve long-term sobriety. Professional counseling services provide tailored treatment plans that address the root causes of addiction while providing essential coping mechanisms to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Through counseling, individuals with opioid addiction can learn to identify and control triggers and develop healthy relationships that support recovery. By seeking professional counseling services, people with opioid addiction can access the resources and support they need to overcome this challenging condition.

Contact Robert Alexander Center for Recovery

The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery offers plenty of treatment options and support services to Kentucky residents struggling with the challenges of opioid addiction.

Our team works hard to provide those in need with specialized care to help them get back on their feet. If you or someone you know is affected by substance abuse disorder, contact the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery for consultation and guidance today.

Opioid Addiction and Treatment in Kentucky

This blog post will explore the background of opioid addiction in Kentucky and what needs to be done to provide better care. Click to learn.

In the state of Kentucky, it is estimated that 1 in 10 people struggle with some form of opioid addiction. In recent years, this number has only continued to rise, as more and more individuals find themselves caught in the throes of this dangerous addiction.

Unfortunately, due to a variety of socio-economic factors, Kentucky has been hit particularly hard by the opioid epidemic. Treatment for those suffering from addiction is essential, but often difficult to come by.

This blog post will explore the background of the issue and what needs to be done in order to provide better care for those affected by addiction in Kentucky.

Defining Opioids and Addiction

Opioids are a class of drugs that interact with the opioid receptors in the body, giving it a feeling of euphoria. These drugs can be derived from natural sources such as opium or synthetics like fentanyl and are commonly prescribed for pain management.

Unfortunately, this can result in addiction or physical dependence on opioids with signs such as an increased tolerance or an inability to stop using. The long-term use of these drugs can lead to respiratory depression and other severe medical issues if not properly treated.

How Addictive Are Opioids?

Opioids can have addictive effects on the brain due to the dopamine released when opioids are taken. Over time, repeated opioid usage results in changes to the neurotransmitter pathways within the reward centers of the brain leading to physical dependence.

The pleasure signals caused by opioids activate these circuits, which lead individuals to compulsively seek out more drugs even in the face of significant harm. Addiction further increases when an individual seeks out opioids to relieve withdrawal symptoms.

This type of behavior is how opioids become increasingly addictive over time without increasing doses.

Consequences of Opioid Addiction

Opioid Addiction and Treatment in Kentucky

Opioid addiction has resulted in an alarming number of devastating consequences for individuals and communities in Kentucky. The opioid crisis has been linked to:

  • Respiratory problems, such as difficulty breathing and slowed breathing.
  • Gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, and nausea
  • Cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and irregular heartbeat
  • Neurological problems, such as confusion, memory loss, and sleep disorders
  • Mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and paranoia
  • Immunological problems, such as increased susceptibility to infection

Moreover, the economic cost associated with opioid addiction is staggering. Treatment costs alone can be very expensive and further add to the strain on public resources. It’s also important to consider other hidden costs related to compounded losses of family members affected by addiction, impacts on the child welfare system as well as the emotional burden of coping with the frightening reality of addiction-related deaths due to overdose or suicide.

As a result of these consequential effects, it is evident that combatting opioid addiction in Kentucky requires serious measures beyond treating individual cases.

Treatment Options

In Kentucky, individuals struggling with opioid addiction have access to a range of treatment options. Treatment plans may include the following:

  • Medication-assisted therapy (MAT)
  • Outpatient behavioral counseling
  • Self-management programs which focus on building skills and problem-solving
  • Stress management

In addition to these evidence-based approaches, case management is available to assist with making appointments, as well as provide resources for patients’ physical and mental health needs.

All of these treatment options are designed to be provided in combination for the best possible outcomes. By providing people with targeted support services and caring professionals, those who suffer from addiction can start down a path that leads to long-term recovery from opioids.

How to Get Help if You or Someone You Know Is Addicted to Opioids

If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, Robert Alexander Center for Recovery in Kentucky can provide help. Offering both short and long-term treatment programs, we strive to give individuals the necessary tools to overcome their addiction.

This includes providing medical services, therapeutic support services, and educational opportunities. They also work to address challenges that occur after patients leave the program, connecting them to other resources to ensure a successful recovery.

Robert Alexander Center for Recovery is ready and willing to help those who are struggling with opioid addiction. With experienced support teams, healing resources, and long-term recovery plans, you can find the support that you need as you make your way through this challenging time. Don’t hesitate to reach out today to confront your opioid addiction issues head-on!

Opioid Addiction: Differences in Oxycodone and Hydrocodone

Opioid addiction impacts millions of individuals around the world. Oxycodone and hydrocodone are two of the most commonly misused opioids. 

Opioid addiction is a significant issue that impacts millions of individuals around the world. Oxycodone and hydrocodone are two of the most commonly misused opioids

While both medicines are effective pain relievers, there are several key differences that must be understood. Here at The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, we work with people looking to overcome their opioid addictions, so we know the impact that these drugs can have on people’s lives and health.

Oxycodone

Oxycodone is a synthetic opioid created from thebaine, an alkaloid found naturally in the opium poppy. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain and comes in immediate and extended-release versions. Oxycodone is commonly given under the brand names Percocet and OxyContin.

Hydrocodone

In contrast, hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid synthesized from codeine, a naturally occurring chemical present in opium. It is also used to alleviate pain and comes in both immediate-release and extended-release forms.

The propensity for addiction is one of the primary distinctions between oxycodone and hydrocodone. Oxycodone is thought to be more strong and more addictive than hydrocodone, and it is more likely to cause drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea as well. 

Opioid Addiction: Differences In Oxycodone And Hydrocodone

Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms are also more severe, making it more difficult to quit. That’s something that lots of people who experience opioid addiction first-hand know only too well.

Metaboloziation

Another difference between the two drugs is the way they are metabolized in the body. Oxycodone is metabolized primarily in the liver, while hydrocodone is metabolized primarily in the gut and liver. This means that people with liver disease may be more at risk of experiencing side effects when taking oxycodone, and that’s something that many people are not aware of.

It’s also worth noting that both Oxycodone and Hydrocodone can become habit-forming, so use them only as directed by a doctor and never exceed the authorized dosage. 

Both substances, when overused or abused, can lead to addiction and overdose, both of which can have serious and even fatal effects. That’s when it becomes vital to seek help and focus on overcoming your addiction with the help of our team of professionals.

Both oxycodone and hydrocodone are potent opioid pain relievers that are frequently given to treat moderate to severe pain. While the two substances differ in several ways, such as their propensity for addiction and how they are metabolized in the body, it is crucial to remember that both have the potential to be addictive and should be used with caution. It’s also critical to seek professional help if you suspect you have an opioid addiction.

We Can Help

Here at The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, we have a range of addiction recovery services that you can make the most of if you’re concerned about your use of opioids. It’s very easy to fall into an addiction and feel trapped by it. 

But with the help of our professional team and tailored approaches to recovery, there’s no reason why you can’t turn your life around. So don’t hesitate to get in touch.

How to Find the Most Effective Treatment for Opioid Addiction

While there's no easy solution to the opioid epidemic, there are effective treatments that can help those struggling with addiction. Click

Opioid addiction is a serious and growing problem in the United States. People overdose every single day as a result of opioid addiction, and many people feel completely trapped and unsure of where to turn. 

While there’s no easy solution to the opioid epidemic, there are effective treatments that can help those struggling with addiction overcome their dependence and turn their lives around. And we can help you with that here at The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery

Medication-Assisted Therapy

Medication-assisted therapy is one of the most effective approaches to treating opiate addiction (MAT). Methadone maintenance treatment combines the use of approved drugs such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone with counseling and other behavioral therapies.

These drugs work by lowering cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing people to concentrate on their recovery and stay on a positive track.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Most Effective Treatment For Opioid Addiction

Another effective treatment for opioid addiction is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to the addiction. CBT has been shown to be especially effective in helping individuals reduce their risk of relapse and maintain their recovery in the long term.

Alternative Drug Addiction Therapies

However, not all therapies or programs are going to be ideal for you and your needs. It is critical to choose one that meets the patient’s specific demands and personal circumstances. 

Some people, for example, may benefit more from inpatient rehab programs, whereas others may gain more from outpatient rehab programs. Personal preferences and the degree of the addiction must also be considered.

Another important factor to consider when looking for treatment is the credentials and qualifications of the treatment team. Make sure to look for a facility with a staff of licensed and certified professionals, including doctors, nurses, counselors, and therapists. Here at The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, we’ll be more than happy to share all of that information with you.

Finding the right treatment for opioid addiction can be a difficult and overwhelming process, but it is important to remember that recovery is possible, and there are many resources available to help you or your loved one get the help they need.

We Can Help

At The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery, we understand the challenges of opioid addiction and we are dedicated to providing our patients with the best treatment options and a supportive, compassionate environment. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to helping individuals overcome their addictions and rebuild their lives. 

With that in mind, we take a tailored approach, meaning that you’ll get a treatment plan and approach to therapy that works for you and your specific needs. We understand that no two people are in the same situation when it comes to opium addiction. And, as such, it’s important to find a treatment plan that’s equally unique.

Contact us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you or your loved one on the road to recovery. We’ll be more than happy to discuss the treatment options we offer with you.

The Link Between Chronic Pain And Opioid Addiction

Studies highlight that at least 2.7 million Americans have an opioid use disorder while it is also shown that around 130 deaths are recorded daily as a result of opioid use. As such, it has become an increasingly common reason for addiction treatment center admissions. 

It has long been suggested that many of the patients who check into drug rehab for opioid addiction have chronic pain. Now, though, the link between chronic pain and opioid addiction has been statistically proven.

The link between chronic pain and opioid addiction 

Opioid addiction treatment has often revolved around the concept that many take opioids due to chronic pain. After all, opioids have long been used as prescription drugs while authorities reassured people in the 1990s that they would not become addicted. Sadly, the fact that over 10 million people misuse opioids at least once each year suggests otherwise.

However, it is no longer purely anecdotal. Research into the central sensitization in opioid use disorder has shown that people with central sensitization are more receptive to pain as the spinal cords transmit information to the brain in a heightened way. When individuals consequently turn to opioids, they naturally become more prone to addiction because they may need them to numb the pain more frequently than other people.

Because of this link, anybody who experiences an opioid use disorder will need to find a suitable treatment plan. Intensive outpatient drug rehab programs could be particularly effective, especially when provided by an addiction treatment center that understands the links to chronic pain and can find alternative ways to manage pain as well as opioid withdrawal symptoms.

How can drug rehab be built to reflect opioid addiction?

Whether using an outpatient program or an inpatient opioid rehab treatment, it’s imperative that any plan to overcome opioid addiction is tailored to the individual. Chronic pain is a common root cause, but it’s not the only issue. An accurate diagnosis, which may include a dual diagnosis with a mental health issue, is the first step to success.

The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery is a drug and alcohol rehab program in Kentucky that understands the need for personalized treatment plans built with long-term success in mind. Following a carefully managed detoxification, treatment plans will combine therapy with other mechanisms to help patients get sober and stay sober. Perhaps most importantly, the drug rehab program will focus on finding a drug treatment that also supports you through chronic pain conditions to reduce the threat of relapsing.

A failure to treat underlying issues is often the reason why more than 4 in 5 addicts relapse. It is especially noticeable when dealing with chronic pain and opioid use disorders. A full understanding of the person rather than just the addiction instantly improves the likelihood of long-term success. Moreover, the Robert Alexander Center educates patients and their families so that they are better equipped to steer clear of relapsing.

Opioid addiction can be lethal, but living with chronic pain isn’t an option either. With the right treatment, patients can expect to enjoy a far greater quality of life.

Understanding The Controversial Role Of Buprenorphine In Combating Opioid Addiction

Support for Opioid Addiction In Kentucky

Opioids are one of the most significant types of addiction impacting the American population. This article explores how Buprenorphine may be used to treat the addiction and why it is controversial. 

According to the WHO 62 million people use opioids. Research also suggests that between 20 and 30% of people who take opioids misuse them. What’s perhaps more concerning is that 10% of people who misuse this medicine will become addicted. In total, 2.1 million people are believed to currently be experiencing an opioid disorder or addiction.

How Does An Opioid Addiction Occur?

Using opioids will trigger the release of endorphins in your brain and make you feel good. They provide a temporary but significantly powerful sense of wellbeing. When the feeling wears off, you will desire more and this is the first step towards an addiction. Taking opioids for a significant period will result in the production of endorphins slowing down. As such, as well as experiencing a desire to take opioids more frequently, you will also want to increase your dose.  

Since it’s difficult to get a doctor to increase your dose of medically prescribed opioids, many individuals will turn to heroin. It’s estimated that 2% of people who are addicted to opioids will try heroin after developing a tolerance.

Buprenorphine As A Treatment Option For Opioids

Buprenorphine is a drug that can be used to treat opioid dependence. This treatment was first approved in 1995 and it is currently used in more than 44 countries across the world. It is considered to be safer compared to other substitutes because of its slower dissociation from receptors and lower levels of respiratory depression. As such, it provides options for less frequent dosing. However, it also means that detoxification is more difficult. 

Burpee or-hire is considered controversial as a treatment option for opioid addiction because it still has a negative impact on the brain. For instance, it may cause cognitive and psychomotor impairment as well as issues with memory. Physical symptoms of use could include nausea and some difficulties breathing. Due to this, many experts recommend an abstinence approach where no substitute is used for treatment.

What Does An Abstinence Based Recovery Involve?

Abstinence based recovery plans from an opioid addiction will usually begin with a complete detoxification. Medical professionals will use a controlled environment to ensure that all the opioids leave an individual’s system so that they can complete a treatment plan. This will usually be part of an inpatient program.

Since the positive sensations opioids provide are so powerful it is common for patients who receive inpatient treatment to be at risk of relapse once they return to their normal lives. That’s why intensive outpatient treatment options are often used as well. 

Outpatient services can help ensure that a patient continues to access the support they need to remain on their treatment plan and complete a full recovery. This may include group and individual therapy sessions. Telemedicine services may also be used to provide a more flexible solution and continue to support a patient remotely. 

Opioid addiction is difficult to recover from but with the right support patients can regain control of their lives.