Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health or SMBH

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has emerged as a leading approach in addressing the opioid crisis and is embraced at SMBH. It’s an extensive strategy that combines medication, counseling, and community support to help individuals overcome addiction.

The medications used in MAT, such as methadone and buprenorphine, work by reducing cravings and easing withdrawal symptoms, allowing people to focus on their recovery. While the effectiveness of MAT is well-documented, there’s still much to explore about the nuances of this multifaceted intervention and how it can be optimized to benefit those struggling with opioid dependence.

Overview of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health is recognized as a leader in Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) within Missouri. The organization connects individuals to local physicians or telehealth MAT services.

This extensive telehealth system at Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health provides access to treatment within hours, preventing the need for expensive inpatient detoxification. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers all-encompassing information on the benefits of MAT.

This evidence-based approach combines medication, counseling, and support to help people regain a normal state of mind, free from the highs and lows of drug use. The medications reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allowing individuals to focus on making necessary lifestyle changes.

Components of Medication Assisted Treatment

What are the key components of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

MAT combines the use of medications, counseling, and support from family and friends.

The medications, which include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, help restore the patient’s normal brain function and reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This allows the individual to focus on lifestyle changes and the counseling aspect of treatment.

The support from loved ones is vital in maintaining recovery, as MAT is similar to managing other chronic conditions. By addressing the physical, mental, and social aspects of addiction, MAT provides an all-encompassing approach to help individuals achieve and sustain recovery.

Medications Used in Medication Assisted Treatment

Medication is a critical component of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) at SMBH. The medications commonly used include methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone, and Vivitrol (injectable slow-release naltrexone). These medications help reduce problem addiction behavior by restoring the brain’s normal state, alleviating withdrawal symptoms, and curbing cravings.

Methadone and buprenorphine are opioid agonists that prevent opioid withdrawal and reduce cravings, while naltrexone and Vivitrol are opioid antagonists that block the effects of opioids. These medications, when combined with counseling and support, can effectively manage opioid addiction, allowing individuals to focus on lifestyle changes and recovery.

Assessment and Treatment Planning at Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health

The initial assessment at SMBH gathers essential information about an individual’s drug use, overall health, and personal goals. A physical examination and drug test are conducted to establish a thorough understanding of the person’s needs.

Based on these findings, an individualized treatment plan is developed with the client’s input. This plan outlines specific goals, the appropriate medication, counseling, and support options.

As the person progresses through treatment, their success towards these goals is carefully measured. Medication-assisted treatment requires ongoing management, similar to other chronic conditions.

Closely monitoring a person’s response and making adjustments as needed are indispensable for maintaining the benefits of recovery.

Maintaining Recovery in Medication Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) at Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health requires ongoing commitment, much like managing other chronic health conditions. The medications used in MAT don’t create a new addiction when taken as prescribed. Instead, they help people manage their addiction, allowing the benefits of recovery to be maintained.

Family and friends’ support is vital during this process. Attending support groups can also be beneficial, as individuals connect with others facing similar challenges. Ultimately, successful long-term recovery involves a combination of medication, counseling, and a strong support system.

With dedication and the right resources, individuals can manage their addiction and lead fulfilling lives in recovery.

Conclusion

Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health offers MAT as part of a comprehensive approach that combines medications, counseling, and support to address the physical, mental, and social aspects of opioid addiction.

By restoring normal brain function, reducing cravings, and alleviating withdrawal symptoms, the programs at SMBH enables individuals to focus on lifestyle changes and recovery. With an extensive telehealth system, Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health offers timely access to this evidence-based, leading treatment for their clients.