How to Talk to Your Employer About Addiction Treatment

Man talking to his Employer about Addiction Treatment

A supportive guide on how to talk to your employer about addiction treatment with confidence and care. Choosing to start addiction treatment is one of the most powerful decisions you can make for your health and future. But when it comes time to talk to your employer about needing time off, you may feel overwhelmed […]

The Effects of Combining Cannabis and Suboxone

Woman asking if she can use both suboxone and cannabis

Marijuana legalization is happening in many states, but can it assist with opioid addiction? The legalization of both recreational and medicinal marijuana remains a significant political priority for many in the United States. Currently, 38 out of 50 states permit the use of cannabis for medical purposes, while 24 states have legalized recreational use. Nonetheless, […]

Why MAT Isn’t Just Replacing One Addiction With Another

Man wearing suite questions why MAT is controversial in addiction treatment.

One of the sharpest controversies in the field of addiction treatment revolves around whether medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is just replacing one addiction with another. Much of the MAT controversy in addiction treatment centers on the use of methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone to treat drug addiction. These medications interact with the same opioid receptors in the […]

What to Do When Someone Refuses Addiction Treatment

Man refusing to get help for addiction

Watching as a loved one struggles with opioid addiction is difficult. After all, you know how amazing your loved one is when they aren’t under the influence of illicit substances. While it is frustrating to try to figure out what to do when someone refuses addiction treatment, your loved one’s health and well-being are worth […]

Why Counseling is Critical in Addiction Recovery

Importance of Counseling - Recovering From Addiction

Substance use counseling promotes successful, long-lasting recovery.  Evidence shows that the most effective approach to treating addiction is a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and counseling. Millions of people suffering from substance use disorder have found their way back to a healthy life with this combination. Counseling with addiction treatment is a mainstay to ensure […]

Factors Affecting Methadone Metabolism

Man drinking water to help metabolize his medication

Everyone’s body processes methadone at a different rate.   Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) that involves methadone maintenance helps patients feel relief from opioid withdrawal symptoms. Managing these symptoms allows patients to utilize counseling and other resources to address their addiction from a psychological and emotional standpoint.   However, some people considering methadone treatment worry about methadone detection in […]

Foods to Avoid During Opioid Use Disorder Treatment 

grapefruit

Foods to Avoid While Taking Methadone  Methadone interactions with common foods are sometimes overlooked.   Opioid addiction recovery involves changing many aspects of your life, sometimes including eating habits. If you take methadone as part of a medication-assisted treatment program, pay special attention to what you eat and drink. Certain foods can cause interactions or side […]

Chronic Pain Treatment without Opioids 

man in chronic pain wondering how to treat it without opioids

Prescription painkillers are no longer as accessible as they used to be. For those seeking pain treatment without opioids, alternative therapies are becoming essential.  Chronic pain is a widespread issue in the United States. In 2021, an estimated 20.9% of U.S. adults struggled with chronic pain. That means approximately 51.6 million adults may seek out medical […]

How Drug Addiction Affects Relationships

Man and woman arguing because Drug Addiction Affects Relationships

 Substance use disorder affects all areas of life, especially relationships. Learn how drug addiction affects all relationships. Addiction makes it difficult to maintain trust, respect and open communication – critical elements in a healthy relationship. When a person has a substance use disorder (SUD), their life can become largely focused on obtaining and using the […]

Quick Health Tips for a Happier Recovery Journey

Woman walking trail with hands on head during sunset

The journey toward addiction recovery takes worthwhile dedication and hard work, and juggling physical and mental well-being can become challenging. With each passing day, patients learn to focus on their goals and aspirations while attending substance use treatment and group counseling to help them work through difficulties while finding support from their peers. There are […]