Drug Addiction Treatment

Drug abuse is the use of legal or illegal substances to achieve a desired ‘high’. This is different from drug addiction, as people can abuse drugs without being addicted. Common drugs that are often abused include:

• Heroin
• Cocaine
• Marijuana
• Prescription painkillers
• Ecstasy
• 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)

Regular drug abuse can quickly spiral into drug addiction, especially when highly addictive substances such as heroin, cocaine, and prescription painkillers are consumed. As these substances are extremely addictive, the brain and body come to rely on them, making them very difficult to give up.

Some people live in denial about drug abuse and addiction and will attempt to cover up any signs they need treatment. However, common indicators of drug addiction can include:

• Constant thoughts of using drugs
• Trying and failing to stop using the substance
• Ongoing drug use, even if it causes physical harm or discomfort
• Continuing to buy the drug even if financial difficulty is experienced

As drug abuse and addiction come hand in hand with many negative consequences, it is important to treat drug addiction or abuse as soon as possible. This is because a SUD can be incredibly dangerous and even lethal.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), some of the health consequences of drug abuse and addiction can include:

• Overdose
• Kidney damage
• Liver damage
• HIV and hepatitis
• Cancer

Unfortunately, the United States is currently facing an immense drug problem. Although seeking help for drug abuse may be intimidating, it is vital to do so. Empowered Recovery Clinic provides comprehensive care during and after treatment to help prevent relapses and educate people with lifelong skills that can contribute to long-term recovery.

The signs of substance use disorders can be physical and behavioral. Some symptoms include:

• Changes in eating habits
• Lethargy and fatigue
• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Secretive behavior
• Financial or legal issues
• Missing work or school

People display the signs and symptoms of substance abuse very differently. It can depend on them as a person as well as the type of drug they are abusing. If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, drug rehab must be considered.

When clients first receive treatment for drug abuse, they will often undergo medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This helps with the detox stage of recovery, as medication can reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

Different types of medications are used to assist withdrawal. Though they depend on the substance used, they can include:

• Benzodiazepines – Benzodiazepines are a common drug used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. They help to calm the central nervous system while reducing some withdrawal symptoms such as chills, sweats, and seizures.
• Methadone – Methadone is a controlled replacement for opioids. As a long-term treatment, the dose is reduced over time to ease the intensity of withdrawal symptoms.
• Naltrexone – Naltrexone blocks the rush of feel-good endorphins that happens when people use drugs or alcohol. It can be used for both opioid and alcohol detox.

“No looking back now! The care was exemplary and you can tell the staff really care about you. I’m still in touch with my recovery coach regularly who has been a massive help.” – Kirstie, Former Client

Our drug addiction treatment in Atlanta offers several programs to treat SUD safely and effectively. Rehab centers are not one size fits all, and our options can help those transitioning from a residential treatment center or provide extra support for those with co-occurring mental health conditions.

Our options include:

• Partial Hospitalization Treatment – Partial hospitalization allows clients to spend their days in treatment but returns home at night. This is a suitable option for those who require more intensive treatment, are returning from residential rehab, or want to remain close to family members for support during treatment.
• Intensive Outpatient Treatment – Our intensive outpatient treatment program aids clients who require ongoing treatment but do not need complete care or residential treatment. This option includes several hours of therapy per week to support long-term recovery.
• Outpatient Programming – Although this sounds similar to intensive outpatient treatment, outpatient programming does not take up as much time and includes less contact time with therapists and counselors. This is ideal for those stepping down from more intensive forms of treatment but still want or need ongoing support.
• Referral for Inpatient Drug Rehab – Inpatient rehab provides comprehensive support in which a person lives in a facility while receiving care. We will assist with referral to an inpatient drug rehab if our client needs it. While we don’t have inpatient rehab at our facility, we understand that some clients benefit from this level of care. Therefore, we are happy to help ensure our clients receive inpatient rehab at a trusted referral facility. 

During drug addiction treatment in Atlanta, you’ll be surrounded by a team of medical professionals to support you throughout drug rehab. Each treatment plan includes:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Medical evaluation
• Weekly check-ups

Our goal is to support long-term recovery for everyone, which is why we go above and beyond to educate each client with the lifelong skills they need to heal and grow.

At Empowered Recovery Center, we know that completing a treatment plan does not mean that a person is fully recovered. Relapse rates are high, and ongoing support is needed to mitigate this risk. As a result, we provide each client with a full year of aftercare to reduce the chances of a relapse.

Family therapy is an important component in substance abuse treatment. Studies have shown that including a person’s family in the recovery process can aid rehab outcomes significantly. By educating family members about addiction and strengthening your support system, Empowered Recovery Center aims to promote long-term recovery and improve mental health.

It can be difficult to find the time to commit to regular therapy meetings, especially if you’re trying to work or attend school while in recovery. Empowered Recovery Clinic offers flexible teletherapy options to work around busy lifestyles to promote the best chances of recovery.

“A truly wonderful place. I’d recommend it to anyone who needs it.” – Anne, Former Client