Medications & Emotions in Addiction Treatment
1. Medications for Addiction
- Purpose: Reduce cravings, prevent relapse, and stabilize recovery.
- Common Medications:
- Naltrexone: Blocks opioid receptors; reduces alcohol and opioid cravings.
- Buprenorphine: Partial opioid agonist; eases withdrawal symptoms.
- Key Insights:
- Early intervention improves outcomes and lowers costs.
- Primary care providers can prescribe these medications—not just specialists.
- Combining medication with counseling and peer support is most effective.
- Addressing stigma is critical for patient engagement.
2. Emotions in Early Addiction
- Underlying Factors:
- Addiction often begins as a coping mechanism for stress, trauma, or unresolved emotions.
- Shame and secrecy can delay help-seeking.
- Challenges in Early Recovery:
- Emotional discomfort and fear of judgment.
- Lack of coping skills for stress and anxiety.
- Support Strategies:
- Build resilience through stress management and healthy routines (sleep, exercise).
- Encourage open communication to reduce shame.
- Provide strong support systems (family, peers, therapy).
