Some Information On Heroin Treatment Utah County Patients Should Have

By Daniel Gray


Heroin is an illegal substance in most countries if not all. The drug itself is very addictive and is associated with a significant number of relapses among recovering addicts. This notwithstanding, it is indeed possible to break free from this problem and lead a clean life. All that is needed is a strong desire to overcome, self-discipline and the presence of a strong social support structure. As the look for the appropriate heroin treatment Utah county clients need to know a number of things.

There are two main forms of treatment that are used in managing this type of addiction. They include the pharmacological based therapies and behavioral therapies. Commonly, these treatments are combined so as to increase the chances of success. The first step in the treatment process is detoxification (or chemical withdrawal). During this stage the use of heroin is stopped and the addict put in an inpatient facility to manage the withdrawal symptoms.

Since the recovering addicts are still dependent on heroine, they will be given drugs that have an effect similar to the substance of abuse. Methadone is among the most important treatments in this regard. Other options include naltrexone and buprenorphine. The drugs are usually started immediately after the therapy is initiated and tapered slowly over time when the patient begins to recover. Rapid stoppage is likely to cause withdrawal symptoms.

The therapy stage follows the chemical withdrawal stage. The main activity undertaken at this point is counseling. Patients are enrolled into various classes where they are taught various coping skills. Such classes may be organized as individual or group therapy sessions. Both individual and group therapy have benefits and should be offered to all patients. Whereas individualized therapy accords privacy, group therapy is a forum to share ideas.

One of the trends that have been adopted is the use of residential houses to act as rehabilitation centers. The home typically houses a group of patients that are being treated for the same problem. This provides an opportunity to hold group therapy sessions easily. A number of recreational activities such as swimming, biking, running and hiking are used to reduce stress levels which in turn quickens the recovery process.

The third and final stage of treatment is the maintenance stage. This stage lasts for months or years and is usually done on an outpatient basis. Arrangements are made for the recovery addict to attend regular rehabilitative clinics so that their recovery process can be assessed. Support groups (narcotics anonymous) may also be scheduled to take place during these visits.

Behavioral therapy is focused on modifying the behavior of the affected individual with the aim of reducing their likelihood of indulgence in heroin abuse. Behaviors that contribute to an increased risk are discouraged while those that reduce the desire are encouraged. Cognitive behavior therapy is used in identifying both behaviors and thoughts causing this problem so as to institute the most appropriate interventions.

Heroin addiction is one of the most difficult addictions to break away from. Research has shown that a multi-pronged approach involving the use of drugs and behavior modification is effective in sorting the problem in a majority of the addicts. There is a need to ensure that the affected individuals attend regular family and group therapy sessions as these will serve to strengthen the much needed social support.




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