How Can MAT Help Prevent Relapse?

When someone in addiction treatment for a substance use disorder (SUD) has a return to use, or relapse, it may seem like treatment isn’t working. But it’s actually a common part of the process. As many as 60% of people in treatment will experience a return to use according to research.

Outpatient addiction treatment programs using medication for addiction treatment (MAT) are a safe and effective way to support individuals struggling with a SUD while preventing relapses.

What are the Benefits of MAT?

MAT is an evidence-based approach to addiction treatment that utilizes FDA-approved medication, counseling, and social support. It is proven effective in helping people achieve and maintain long-term recovery.

MAT helps individuals struggling with a substance use disorder in several ways.

• Reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms – MAT medications alter the individual’s brain chemistry, reducing drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This can make it easier for patients to avoid a return to use.
• Improve physical and mental health – MAT addresses the long-term effects of addiction on the body and mind, therefore, improving physical and mental health.
• Increase treatment retention and adherence – Research shows that MAT patients stick with treatment and follow program guidelines, leading to better outcomes for individuals in recovery.
• Reduce risk of overdose – MAT has been proven to reduce the risk of overdose, a major cause of drug-related deaths.

A return to use is an opportunity for growth and learning, not the end of the road.

MAT helps individuals focus on rebuilding their lives, improving their relationships, and managing their daily responsibilities. But how does MAT help prevent a return to use?

• Improved treatment outcomes – Research has consistently shown that MAT improves treatment outcomes, including reduced drug use, decreased criminal activity, and improved overall health and quality of life.
• Better overall health – MAT brings you out of the fog of addiction, allowing you to focus more on your health. When you have the capacity to think clearly and function properly, you can begin to take care of yourself.
• Increased life expectancy – MAT significantly improves life expectancy for individuals struggling with addiction by reducing the risk of overdose and other drug-related health complications.

Progress, Not Perfection

Many current abstinence-based models do not account for a return to use. But complete abstinence can be unrealistic. Preventing a return to use is always the broader goal of treatment. But it’s important to note a return to use is not the end of the road. It’s an opportunity for growth and learning. Progress, not perfection, needs to be part of the recovery continuum.

Help a Loved One Fight Addiction

BrightView realizes the importance of taking that first step towards recovery with a program designed to prevent relapse. To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one start recovery at our outpatient MAT clinics, call us today at 888.501.9865.

For more on preventing a return to use, check out one of the following articles.

“The Importance of a Relapse Program”

“Benefits of an Addiction Relapse Program”