Medication-assisted treatment (or MAT) has been approved to help fight opioid and alcohol addictions. The benefits of a MAT program are many, the most important being that it helps improve the chances of a person staying clean and sober longer than many programs that use other methods. To date, MAT programs have found their greatest use in opioid treatment programs. While there is the potential that the drugs used in these programs are also addictive, getting off the medications is easier and there are fewer harmful side effects of using these medications. There are several other benefits of a MAT program. Contact Viewpoint Dual Recovery to learn more about the benefits of MAT by calling 855.746.3633.
Improved Survival
One of the biggest benefits of a MAT program is the improved survival rate of those who are on the program. The medication used in the program helps eliminate the chances of overdose and create fewer side effects for the individual. This treatment option also keeps the client from being in situations that can increase their danger, such as using unclean needles or dealing with drug dealers.
Healthier Babies
Women who use opioids often have a greater number of miscarriages or unhealthy babies. Others find themselves losing their children to social services. A medication-assisted treatment program allows these women to increase their chances of giving birth to healthier babies and gives them a chance to become mothers to their children. Many women want that chance but opioid addiction can be too strong.
Decreased Illegal Activity
Another one of the benefits of a MAT program is the reduction of illegal activity. First, there is the use of illegal opioids or falsely obtaining these opioids. People no longer have to steal or lie to get the money they need to feed their addiction and they don’t need to deal with drug dealers. Women decrease the time spent in prostitution. Overall, the chances of conducting illegal activities and ending up in prison are greatly reduced.
Higher Retention Rate
Opioid addiction has a high recidivism rate. By participating in a MAT program, that number is greatly reduced. Those who complete the program often retain their recovery for the rest of their lives. The medication used is not simply a replacement for opioids. It is a different class of medication that helps regulate the brain chemicals involved with addiction, making it possible to eventually wean off them and face life without the use of medication.
Greater Quality of Life and Improvement in Mental Health
Finally, one of the benefits of a MAT program is the higher quality of life it affords the person going through the program. The addiction is pushed aside, the client can start putting their life back together by helping to heal family relationships and maintaining a job. Financial issues start to improve and the client’s health starts to improve. Overall, participation and completion of a MAT program returns the client’s life to their control and the path to success becomes clear and reachable. If you or a loved one is suffering with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, a dual diagnosis program can help.
Viewpoint Dual Recovery Center
The use of medicine-assisted treatment allows us to better reach our goal of maintaining a drug-free life for those in our opioid treatment program. While the medication is often used for one to two years, the eventual goal is to eliminate it and allow the client to continue on their path of recovery. If you or a loved one is battling an opioid addiction, you know how important it is to reach out for help. Trying to beat this alone is nearly impossible. Reach out today by calling 855.746.3633 and talk with an intake person to see if our addiction treatment program will meet your needs. We welcome the opportunity to be part of this important journey you are ready to take.
