Addiction treatment / Where to start and what to expect?

1- I have an addiction. Where to start?

Where to start can be confusing. There are a lot of services and programs out there. A good starting point online is my website. Feel free to contact me if needed. Furthermore,  www.samhsa.gov is a website that may provide the information you are looking for. If you don’t mind using a phone, call a detox center as they may have valuable information that is difficult to find online.  If you have a  primary care provider they should be able to help as well. Just ask them. 

2- Is treatment hard or painful?

Changing any habit may be difficult even if it’s not an addiction. Although, challenging, and possibly emotionally taxing treatment shouldn’t be painful. The goal is to help patients live happier healthier lives. 

3- Is treatment free, or do I need to pay?

Most insurances cover addiction medicine services nowadays. If you don’t have insurance, there may be governmental funding you may benefit from. This funding varies from county to county.  Start, and see what you can get. 

4- How long does the treatment take?

Commitment to sobriety is a lifetime endeavor. Don’t let that discourage you. Patients who fully commit to sobriety typically show complete life transformation in 2-5 years and things get easier then.