Pennsylvania is known for its beautiful scenery, interesting cities, and rich history. However, it is also home to a growing epidemic of drug addiction. In the past year, around 300,000 individuals in the state suffered from an active drug addiction. The good news is that there are lots of different treatment options available in Pennsylvania for those who need help.
Counseling
Seeing a counselor is one of the most common treatment options for drug addiction. In fact, for those who have a mild to moderate substance abuse disorder, counseling may even be enough to end the habit.
What makes counseling so effective is that it allows the individual to talk about their addiction and learn how to cope with triggers in a safe environment.
Through different kinds of behavioral therapies and talk therapies, counselors are also able to help their patients understand the root of their addiction. This can be incredibly helpful in preventing relapse in the future and can make patients more self-aware.
Telehealth
If you don’t live in a large city like Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, or Harrisburg, you may find it more difficult to find the right counselor. However, thanks to telehealth, you can now get the help you need from the comfort of your own home.
Telehealth is a form of counseling that uses technology to connect patients with counselors. This can be done through video chat via webcam or over the phone via phone call or FaceTime.
This allows for people in rural areas to access quality care and makes it more convenient for those who have busy schedules. Keep in mind, however, that you will only be able to access therapists licensed in the state of Pennsylvania.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
For some people, counseling and telehealth may not be enough to overcome their addiction. In these cases, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) may be necessary.
MAT is the use of medications in combination with behavioral therapies to treat substance abuse disorders. This type of treatment is often used for people who are addicted to opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers.
There are three medications that are commonly used in MAT: methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which can make it easier for someone to stay sober.
However, it is important to note that medication-assisted treatment should only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Inpatient Treatment
If you are struggling with a severe addiction, inpatient rehab in Pennsylvania may be the best option for you. Inpatient treatment is a form of rehab that requires patients to live at the facility for the duration of their treatment.
This type of treatment is often recommended for people who have a history of relapse or who have a co-occurring mental health disorder.
Inpatient rehab offers a number of benefits, including:
- A safe and sober environment
- 24-hour supervision
- Treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders
- Access to medication-assisted treatment
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Aftercare planning
Outpatient Treatment
If inpatient rehab is not the right option for you, outpatient treatment may be a better choice. Outpatient treatment is a form of rehab that allows patients to live at home and attend therapy sessions during the day.
This type of treatment is often recommended for people who have a mild to moderate addiction or who have a job and/or family obligations that would make inpatient rehab difficult.
Outpatient treatment has numerous benefits, including:
- Flexible hours that fit your schedule
- Access to medication-assisted treatment
- Individual counseling
- Relapse prevention planning
- Support Groups
One of the best things about support groups is that they are free and open to everyone. There are a number of different types of support groups available in Pennsylvania, including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), SMART Recovery, and Women for Sobriety.
These groups offer a safe and supportive environment where people can share their experiences and learn from others who are struggling with addiction. They also provide a place for people to find support and accountability.
If you are struggling with addiction, there are many treatment options available in Pennsylvania. Whether you choose inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment, or a support group, there is sure to be something that will fit your needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, and remember that you are not alone.