Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in New Jersey
Prescription drug addiction is increasingly a concern across the nation. These medicines, often prescribed to treat pain, anxiety or sleep disorders, can be highly addictive if misused. What starts as a legitimate medical treatment can lead to dependency for some people. This can cause physical, psychological, and social consequences.
Prescription drug misuse, whether taking more than prescribed, taking medicine for the high or pleasant feelings it creates, or using them without a prescription, can quickly lead to addiction and devastating effects.
At New Jersey Behavioral Health, we recognize the complexities of prescription drug addiction. We’re committed to treating this disease comprehensively to help people reclaim their lives.
Our approach in our treatment programs is holistic. We address not just the physical parts of addiction and dependence but also underlying mental health issues. We guide clients toward recovery through evidence-based therapies, medical support, and compassion.
Treating Addiction as a Disease
Prescription drug addiction treatment must approach it as a chronic disease. Addiction causes changes in the brain, leading to compulsive behavior. This behavior continues in an out-of-control way even though it causes negative effects.
Addiction is a disease because of how it changes the reward system in the brain. A person with an addiction to prescription drugs will seek the substance out at the expense of their health and well-being.
Anyone can be affected by addiction, but understanding and treating it as a disease reduces stigma and encourages more people to get help.
The Addictive Nature of Prescription Drugs
About 14.3 million people abuse prescription drugs each year.[1] Among the most commonly misused prescription drugs include the following:
Opioids
Opioid painkillers can include hydrocodone, morphine, oxycodone and other prescription pain managers. These work by binding to certain receptors in the brain. Prescription painkillers block pain signals. They also release large amounts of dopamine. The dopamine release creates a euphoric high.
Opioid abuse can occur when someone wants to recreate pleasant feelings.
Over time, the chemistry of the brain adapts. Higher doses are needed to get the same effects, leading to dependence and addiction.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) estimates that about 5 million people had a prescription opioid use disorder in 2021.[1]
Benzodiazepines
This class of prescription drugs includes Ativan, Xanax and Valium. These medicines are prescribed for treating anxiety and insomnia. They increase the effects of GABA, which is a calming neurotransmitter.
Their calming properties can also be addictive, unfortunately, especially when used outside of a doctor’s guidelines.
Signs and symptoms of dependence can develop rapidly, and the withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepines can be especially dangerous without medical support.
Stimulants
Stimulants, including Adderall, Concerta and Ritalin, are prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Less often, they’re prescribed for some sleep disorders. They raise levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, improving alertness and focus.
Misuse, however, can lead to euphoria, raised energy levels and a potential for addiction. An estimated 1.5 million people had a stimulant use disorder in 2021.[1]
Effective Treatment for Prescription Drug Addiction
Treatment for prescription drug addiction requires an in-depth approach. Depending on the substance and unique needs, the following methods may be part of someone’s individualized treatment plan.
Medical Detoxification (Detox)
Detox can be the first step to treating prescription drug addiction. The process involves the same management of physical withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
Detox helps eliminate substances from the body while withdrawal symptoms are managed, which could otherwise be uncomfortable or dangerous.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT involves using medicines with FDA approval paired with behavioral therapies and counseling. For opioid addiction, medication like buprenorphine, naltrexone or methadone can help reduce cravings and prevent relapse.[2]
Benzodiazepine addiction can similarly be treated with a tapering strategy under medical supervision.
MAT can help with stabilizing someone in their early recovery stages especially.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapies are cornerstones of prescription drug addiction treatment. They’re a way to help with understanding the underlying factors of addiction, and they’re useful to develop coping mechanisms.
Some of the types of behavioral therapies used to treat addiction include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This emphasizes changing negative behaviors and ways of thinking. Skills to manage triggers and prevent relapse can also be taught.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Combining CBT with mindfulness, DBT can help with emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
- Motivational interviewing (MI): As a therapy approach, with MI, the individual’s motivation to change and engage in their treatment is focused on.
Counseling and Support Groups
Individual and group counseling provides supportive environments where individuals can share insights and experiences. Group therapy is a supportive peer environment that can be instrumental in recovery.
Support groups like 12-step programs offer ongoing accountability as well for long-term sobriety.
Holistic Therapies
These complement traditional treatment approaches, including mindfulness and meditation, yoga and physical exercise, and nutritional counseling.
Aftercare and Relapse Prevention
Aftercare programs are crucial to maintaining recovery after formal treatment. These programs can include ongoing therapy, support group participation and community resource access. Developing a relapse prevention plan is needed to help identify triggers and then develop strategies to manage them effectively.
At New Jersey Behavioral Health, we offer a set of treatment options that are tailored and provide the support and tools needed to empower individuals to reclaim their lives from addiction.
The Need for Professional Treatment for Prescription Drug Addiction
When someone is struggling with an addiction to prescription drugs, it’s a complicated and multifaceted issue. Professional treatment at New Jersey Behavioral Health is a structured, supportive environment where patients receive comprehensive care.
Our center uses evidence-based therapies proven effective in treating substance use disorders. The environment includes peers and professionals who understand the challenges of addiction, and having a network of support can help with staying motivated and committed to the recovery journey.
Addiction often co-occurs with other mental conditions, especially prescription drug addiction. Our professional treatment center addresses any diagnosed mental health condition simultaneously for a holistic approach to recovery.
Start Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in New Jersey Today
New Jersey Behavioral Health is a leading choice for prescription medication addiction treatment because of our experience, expertise, and comprehensive services. Contact us to learn how we can become a dedicated partner in helping you or a loved one recover and improve your quality of life.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Medications for Substance Use Disorders