Opiate Addiction Treatment in Maine

Opiate Addiction Treatment in Maine

Understanding Treatment for Opiate Addiction in Maine

Opiate addiction treatment center and program Portland Maine trusts

Any person who visits Maine is likely to get overwhelmed by its natural beauty. The state is home to several tourist attractions, such as the Acadia National Park, Portland Head Light, and the Maine State House. On top of that, it has a long and rich history that is evident in its many historic landmarks, such as the Portland Observatory and the Fort Knox State Historic Site.

All of these factors make Maine an ideal vacation destination. However, it is also worth noting that the state has a serious problem with drug addiction. In particular, opiate addiction is a major issue. In 2021, Maine recorded over 107,600 drug-related deaths, which is a 14.9% increase from the previous year. This gave Maine position 12 among the states with the highest number of deaths caused by drugs. Although opioids are causing a lot of damage in Maine, it is worth noting that opiates are also becoming a huge problem in this state.

What’s the Difference Between Opioids and Opiates?

Opiates are drugs that are derived from the opium poppy plant. That means they are natural and come from a plant. Opioids, on the other hand, are man-made drugs that are similar to opiates. However, they are often more potent than opiates, and that’s why they’re more likely to be abused. For instance, fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is 50-100 times more potent than morphine, an opiate.

Technically, opioids are a type of opiate, but the term “opioid” is typically used to refer to synthetic or semi-synthetic drugs that are designed to mimic the effects of naturally occurring opiates.

Both opioids and opiates can be used to relieve pain. However, they can also cause a sense of euphoria, which is why they’re often abused. When someone takes opioids or opiates for non-medical reasons, it’s considered drug abuse.

The Dangers of Opiate Abuse

Opiates are central nervous system depressants, which means they slow down the body’s essential functions. That’s why they’re often used to treat pain. But when someone takes them for non-medical reasons, they can experience a range of adverse effects. One of these concerns is slowed breathing, which can lead to death. Slowed breathing is often a consequence of overdose. Other negative effects of opiate abuse include:
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Loss of appetite

Another danger of opiate abuse is that it can lead to addiction. People who abuse opiates often develop a tolerance, which means they need to take more and more of the drug to get the desired effect. As their tolerance increases, so does the risk of overdose. In addition, people who abuse opiates and opioids are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression.

Thirdly, opiate abuse can lead to financial problems. The cost of buying opiates can quickly add up, especially if someone is taking them on a regular basis. This can cause people to resort to criminal activity to get the money they need to buy drugs.

Opiate abuse can also lead to social problems. People who abuse opiates often withdraw from their friends and families. They may start to neglect their responsibilities at work or school. In extreme cases, they may even become homeless.

Is It Possible To Know When You’re Getting Addicted?

There are a few key warning signs that can indicate that you are developing an addiction to opiates. One of them is developing a tolerance. This means that you need to take more of the drug to get the same effect. Another warning sign is experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop taking opiates. These can include:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Nausea and vomiting

Thirdly, addiction can cause changes in your behavior. You may start to neglect your responsibilities at work or school. You may also withdraw from your friends and family. In extreme cases, you may even start to engage in criminal activity to get the money you need to buy drugs.

Fourthly, addiction can cause changes in your physical appearance. You may lose weight or look tired all the time. Your skin may also start to look pale.

Why Should You Seek Treatment for Opiate Addiction?

There are a few key reasons why you should seek treatment for opiate addiction. One of them is that addiction can lead to a number of serious health problems. These include:
• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Heart problems
• Respiratory problems
• Mental health disorders

Another reason to seek treatment is to restore your relationships with your friends and family. Addiction can strain even the strongest of relationships. But with treatment, you can begin to repair the damage that’s been done.

Finally, treatment can help you get your life back on track. As mentioned earlier, opiate addiction can cause problems at work or school. But with treatment, you can start to rebuild your life and reach your goals.

How Can You Seek Opiate Addiction Treatment?

If you or someone you know is struggling with opiate addiction, there are a few options for treatment. However, you need to understand how to access a proper treatment facility in the first place. One way is to seek help from your doctor. They can provide you with a referral to a treatment center.

Another way to seek treatment is to contact an organization that specializes in addiction treatment or one that provides referrals to treatment centers. These organizations can help you find a treatment center that’s right for you.

One organization that you can contact is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This organization provides a directory of treatment facilities across the United States.

Another organization that you can contact is the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). This organization provides a directory of treatment providers across the United States.

Thirdly, if you want to find a treatment center in Maine specifically, you can contact the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. This department provides a directory of treatment providers in the state of Maine.

What Happens During Opiate Addiction Treatment?

Detoxification

The first step in treatment is detoxification, or detox. This is when you stop taking opiates and allow your body to rid itself of the drug. Depending on the severity of your addiction, detox can take a few days or even a week. This process is usually conducted by a medical professional in a hospital or treatment center.

The detox process involves three main phases: evaluation, stabilization, and recovery. During the evaluation phase, a medical professional will assess your health and addiction. They’ll also determine if you have any underlying health conditions that need to be addressed.

During the stabilization phase, your body will start to rid itself of the drug. You may experience withdrawal symptoms during this time. These symptoms can include:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Tremors

Withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, but they’re not usually life-threatening. However, in some cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures or heart problems. That’s why it’s important to detox under medical supervision.

In the recovery phase of detox, your body will be free of the drug. However, you may still experience some psychological symptoms, such as anxiety or depression. These symptoms can be addressed in therapy.

Rehabilitation

The second step in treatment is rehabilitation, or rehab. This is when you receive counseling and therapy to help you overcome your addiction. Rehab usually takes place in an inpatient or outpatient treatment center.

Inpatient rehab is when you live at the treatment center for a period of time. During this time, you’ll receive 24-hour care and supervision. You’ll also have access to counseling, group therapy, and other services.

Outpatient rehab is when you live at home and visit the treatment center for counseling and therapy sessions. These sessions are usually scheduled around your work or school schedule. Outpatient rehab is a good option if you have a strong support system at home.

Both inpatient and outpatient rehab programs typically involve individual and group therapy, as well as other activities. These activities can include art therapy, which allows you to use art to express your emotions and thoughts. This can be a helpful way to process difficult feelings. For instance, you may use painting or drawing to express your anger or anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is often part of rehab as well. This is when you work with a therapist to identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors. This type of therapy can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Dialectical behavior therapy is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that was specifically designed to treat people with borderline personality disorder. However, it’s often used in rehab to help people learn to control intense emotions and impulsive behaviors that have contributed to addiction.

Family therapy is another component of many rehab programs. This is when you work with a therapist to improve communication and resolve conflict within your family. This can be helpful if your addiction has strained your relationships.

Finally, you will typically take part in group therapy as well. During group therapy, you meet with a group of people who are struggling with similar issues. This can be a supportive environment where you can share your experiences and learn from others.

The goal of rehab is to help you build a foundation for long-term recovery. For instance, cognitive behavioral therapy can help you identify and avoid triggers that lead to drug use.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

The third step in treatment is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This is when you take medication to help ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. MAT is usually combined with counseling and therapy.

The most common type of medication used in MAT is methadone. Methadone is a synthetic opioid that binds to the same receptors in the brain as other opioids. This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Other medications that are sometimes used in MAT include buprenorphine, naltrexone, and suboxone. MAT is a long-term treatment option. The goal of MAT is to help you stay in treatment and avoid relapse.

Aftercare

This is the final step in treatment. Aftercare is when you receive continued support and services after you finish rehab. Aftercare can help you stay on track with your recovery. Aftercare services can include the following:
• 12-step programs: These are support groups that can help you stay sober. Examples of 12-step programs include Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.
• Alumni program: This is a program offered by some treatment centers. Alumni programs connect you with other people who have been through treatment. This can provide support and encouragement during your recovery.
• Counseling: This is a type of therapy that can help you manage your recovery. Counseling can be one on one or in a group setting.
• Support groups: These are groups of people who share similar experiences. Support groups can provide emotional and practical support during your recovery.

Aftercare is an important part of treatment. It can help you stay on track with your recovery and avoid relapse.

Keeping Up with Treatment

Treatment for opiate addiction is a lifelong process. You will need to stay committed to your recovery in order to maintain sobriety. There will be challenges and setbacks along the way. With help, however, you can overcome these obstacles and stay on the path to recovery.

One way to stay committed to treatment is to find a support system. This can be friends, family, or others who are going through the same thing. A support system can provide encouragement and motivation.

Another way to stay on track is to connect with a treatment facility like Liberty Bay Recovery Center. Our professionals can help you stay focused on your recovery. We can also provide resources and support. Reach out today to learn more about how our team can help you get and stay sober.