Adrienne Webster | American Addiction Centers

Freelance Writer

[content-overview]Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a form of psychotherapy that is effective in treating a range of mental health issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders.1 CBT emphasizes changing negative thought patterns to change behaviors, as well as developing and implementing healthy coping skills into one's life.1[/content-overview]

This article will break down the clinical conditions that CBT addresses, how it helps those struggling with substance use disorders and other mental health conditions, and who this type of treatment might be right for.

[callout-borders]American Addiction Centers offers cognitive behavioral therapy along with a variety of other therapies recommended for the safe and effective treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. To learn more about our program offerings and our various nationwide treatment centers, call [phone][/callout-borders]
<h2>What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?</h2>
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of behavioral therapy and a well-established treatment intervention for people suffering from a wide range of mental health disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on cognition, or how your thoughts can influence your mood – not vice-versa.2 CBT is a goal-oriented type of therapy that addresses cognitive issues such as dysfunctional automatic thoughts, maladaptive thinking (or cognitive distortions), and underlying core beliefs.2 Most therapists who use CBT customize the therapy to the specific needs of each patient.2

Cognitive behavioral therapy was developed in the 1960s by psychiatrist Aaron Beck.2 CBT originated when Beck’s perspective changed on mental health conditions from viewing <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treating-depression-substance-abuse">depression</a> and anxiety as mood disorders to viewing these conditions as cognitive disorders.2

For example, if a CBT patient’s automatic interpretation of a situation is seen through a negative lens of cognition (thoughts and beliefs), then it is likely to impact their mood negatively.2 Maladaptive thinking or cognitive distortions, such as overgeneralizing, catastrophizing, or personalizing situations, can cause errors in logic and misguided conclusions, sometimes resulting in or worsening of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.2

Underlying core beliefs can shape someone’s life and be the foundation for automatic thinking. Someone’s ways of thinking and perceiving can undoubtedly shape the way that they interpret the world around them (and their role in it).2

Beck believed that dysfunctional, automatic thinking, even if it exaggerated or distorted, plays a significant role in mental and behavioral disorders.2

The ultimate goal of CBT is to address these negative patterns of thinking and subsequent behaviors to create positive change in a person’s life for the better.2 

[callout]Common psychiatric disorders that CBT is effective in treating include:2,3
<ul>
 	<li>Depression.</li>
 	<li>Anxiety.</li>
 	<li>Bipolar disorder.</li>
 	<li>Schizophrenia.</li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/substance-use-disorder">Substance use disorders</a>.</li>
 	<li>Eating disorders.[/callout]</li>
</ul>
Although CBT is effective in treating mental disorders, CBT can be helpful for anyone looking to make a shift in the quality and health of their thinking or improve their mood.
<h2>How Does CBT Work?</h2>
The fundamental principles of CBT are:1
<ul>
 	<li>Psychological disorders are based, in part, on inaccurate ways of thinking.</li>
 	<li>Psychological disorders are also based on learned patterns of negative behavior.</li>
 	<li>People suffering from psychological disorders can learn better ways of coping, thereby relieving their symptoms and subsequently creating positive changes in their lives.</li>
</ul>
Therapists may also help clients by using role-playing techniques to develop a plan for how to deal with potentially problematic situations in the future.1

[segment-cta type="value-prop"]

For example, creating a pros and cons list of reactions to various situations can help people gain an understanding of how their thoughts and actions may make things better or worse. It is important to play out those scenarios in therapy before they need to draw on them in life. Having a plan of action before a person needs this plan can help people feel more prepared and confident. Every person’s challenges in life are unique, so it is up to both the therapist and patient to develop a treatment strategy to address the patient’s needs. What works for one person may not work for another.1

CBT with a trained therapist helps clients take control of their cognition and develop healthier ways to think, emote, and behave independently and through tangible exercises. The therapist and client work collaboratively to develop strategies to not only have an awareness of negative thought patterns and beliefs but to learn to problem solve and change their behaviors.1 It is a solution-based form of therapy focused less on the past and more on the present and what to do now to make things better.1
<h2>Goals of CBT</h2>
The goals of CBT will include developing an awareness of one’s misguided thinking patterns that are creating problems in their life and re-evaluating such thinking in light of reality.1 CBT also encourages people to understand the motivation and behavior of themselves and others, as well as using realistic problem-solving techniques to solve problems.1 As a result, this should build a person’s confidence in their abilities to manage stressful situations.

Another goal of CBT treatment is to help people learn how to calm their mind and body and begin to face their fears instead of avoiding them.1 CBT can be an empowering tool to help people realize that they can manage their emotions and various situations they may encounter throughout their lives in a healthier manner.

[callout]
<h2>Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Substance Abuse</h2>
Cognitive behavioral therapy can be especially effective as a treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs). Some of the primary goals of CBT are to help bring awareness to and correct maladaptive behavioral patterns, enhance motivation for change, and develop healthy coping skills, all of which can be beneficial in substance use treatment.4

Cognitive behavioral therapy treatment models are helpful in relapse prevention since CBT targets cognitive and environmental triggers for substance use and promotes the development of alternative coping skills.4

The use of healthier coping strategies is vital to recovery from substance use disorders and CBT focuses on several elements such as psychoeducation, skills training, and behavioral strategies to avoid triggers.4 Setting goals, social supports (like AA), learning effective communication skills and various forms of exercise are examples of healthy coping strategies often used in CBT treatment.4

[/callout]
<h2>Benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy</h2>
CBT is a practical, goal-oriented form of therapy. It is a collaborative effort between the therapist and patient that can help the patient improve many aspects of their life.2 Treatment is individualized, so cognitive behavioral therapy may look different for different people. CBT has been shown to be beneficial in treating anxiety, depression, and even ADHD.2 It is also a form of short-term therapy, with weekly sessions typically lasting 2-3 months.2
<h2>Is CBT Covered by Insurance?</h2>
The short answer is yes, cognitive behavioral therapy is typically covered by insurance. The Affordable Care Act mandates that health insurance companies must cover mental health and substance use disorders on par with coverage for medical or surgical procedures.5

However, individual plans and coverage will vary depending on carriers. If you have questions about your coverage, call the number on your insurance card to find out more information about your specific plan. Some cognitive behavioral therapists accept insurance, but others may not accept insurance. Others may be out-of-network (OON) but offer patients the option of paying their therapy costs up-front and then sending a superbill to their insurance company for reimbursement. In that case, the therapist gives the client the paperwork necessary to submit their insurance claim directly to their provider.

[vob]
<h2>Is CBT Covered by Medicare and Medicaid?</h2>
Medicaid is the largest payer for mental health services in the United States.6 The Affordable Care Act also expanded Medicaid benefits to millions of Americans that didn’t previously qualify. All Marketplace plans cover both mental health and substance use disorder treatments as “essential health benefits.7

CBT is considered an evidence-based treatment option for mental health and SUDs. To find a provider in your area who accepts <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/insurance-coverage/using-medicaid-to-pay-for-rehab">Medicaid</a> and Medicare, click <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/answers/medicare-and-medicaid/where-can-i-find-a-doctor-that-accepts-medicare-medicaid/index.html">here</a> to be directed to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services webpage, which provides links to various resources and information regarding providers who accept these types of insurance.8

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 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/neurofeedback" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neurofeedback Therapy</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/group-individual" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Group &amp; Individual Therapy</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/yoga" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yoga Therapy</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/rational-emotive-behavior-therapy">Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/dialectical-behavioral-therapy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dialectical Behavioral Therapy</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/addiction-statistics" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Addiction Statistics</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/experiential">Experiential Therapy</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/30-day-rehab-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener">30 Day Rehab Programs</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/overcoming-addiction" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How to Overcome Addiction</a></li>
</ul>
[/link-bank]

[sources]
<ol class="ol1">
 	<li class="li1">American Psychological Association. (July 2017). <a href="https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?</a></li>
 	<li class="li1">Chand, S., Kuckel, D., and Huecker, M. (August 26, 2021). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470241/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cognitive Behavioral Therapy</a>. National Center for Biotechnology Information, Stat Pearls.</li>
 	<li class="li1">Kaczkurkin, A. N., &amp; Foa, E. B. (2015). <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.31887/DCNS.2015.17.3/akaczkurkin" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders: an update on the empirical evidence.</a> Dialogues in clinical neuroscience, 17(3), 337–346.</li>
 	<li class="li1">McHugh, K., Hearon, B. and Otto, M. (September 1, 2011). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2897895/?_escaped_fragment_=po=6.25000" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders</a>. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, Volume 33, pp. 511-525.</li>
 	<li class="li1">National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI). (n.d.). <a href="https://www.nami.org/Advocacy/Policy-Priorities/Improving-Health/Affordable-Care-Act-Coverage-Expansions-Consumer-Protections" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Affordable Care Act Coverage Expansions and Consumer Protections</a>.</li>
 	<li class="li2">Medicaid.gov. (n.d.). <a href="https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/behavioral-health-services/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Behavioral Health Services</a>.</li>
 	<li class="li1">HealthCare.gov. (n.d.). <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/coverage/mental-health-substance-abuse-coverage/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mental Health and Substance Abuse Coverage</a>.</li>
 	<li class="li2">U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/answers/medicare-and-medicaid/where-can-i-find-a-doctor-that-accepts-medicare-medicaid/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Where Can I Find a Doctor That Accepts Medicare and Medicaid?</a></li>
</ol>
[/sources]

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Addiction and Substance Abuse

Marijuana Addiction: Effects, Signs and Rehab Treatment

Cocaine is a <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/stimulant-drugs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stimulant</a> drug made from a naturally occurring plant alkaloid extracted from the leaves of the coca plant.1  Humans have cultivated the coca plant, which is Native to South America, for thousands of years due to its stimulating effects.2

However, only in the last century did people begin to isolate the pure primary psychoactive component, cocaine hydrochloride, from its raw plant extracts to obtain what we now know as cocaine. This purified form of cocaine became an active ingredient in many tonics and elixirs in the early 1900s.2
Cocaine withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity between individuals depending on multiple factors. Though in general, stimulant withdrawal syndromes are relatively less severe than those associated with other substances such as alcohol and opioids. Plus, withdrawal experiences can vary and may in some cases necessitate closer medical attention.3
Cocaine is an addictive drug. With repeated cocaine use, someone may develop a physiological dependence and experience an associated withdrawal syndrome if they try to stop using cocaine.

This page will discuss the causes and symptoms of cocaine withdrawal, the benefits of seeking medical cocaine detox, and treatment options for stimulant addiction.

[callout-borders]American Addiction Centers provides cocaine withdrawal management for people suffering from stimulant use disorders across the entire nation. Call [phone][/callout-borders]
<h2>Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms</h2>
Acute cocaine withdrawal symptoms may include:3

<ul>
 	<li class="p2">Anxiety.</li>
 	<li class="p2">Irritability.</li>
 	<li>Depression.</li>
 	<li>Poor concentration.</li>
 	<li>Slowed thoughts and movements.</li>
 	<li>Fatigue.</li>
 	<li>Changes in sleep patterns (e.g., hypersomnia, or increased sleeping).</li>
 	<li>Increased appetite.</li>
 	<li>Cocaine cravings.</li>
 	<li>Paranoia.</li>
</ul>
Though stimulant withdrawal does not usually involve severe physical symptoms (nor does it present immediate medical dangers to a patient), some individuals may be at risk for experiencing a significantly debilitating dysphoria (i.e., depression and overwhelmingly negative thoughts and feelings). This profound dysphoric period could, in some cases, be associated with suicidal thoughts or attempts and could also lead to a patient relapsing on cocaine.3

While many of the symptoms of cocaine withdrawal begin to resolve within several days after quitting, some people may have a more protracted or prolonged course of withdrawal and continue to experience troublesome withdrawal symptoms for several weeks.3,4 Protracted withdrawal is the presence of substance-specific signs and symptoms of withdrawal that persist well beyond the time frame expected after someone stops using the substance.4

The severity of a person’s withdrawal symptoms can vary widely among individuals. These symptoms are influenced by many factors, such as their age and general health, the amount of cocaine they used, and how long they have been using. Other factors include the route of administration and whether there were other substances being used along with the cocaine.3

Withdrawal symptoms can be intense to the point that they lead people to use again simply to seek relief from the pain and discomfort of withdrawal.4
<h2>What Causes Cocaine Withdrawal?</h2>
Cocaine withdrawal is commonly experienced by those who become dependent on this drug. Dependence on cocaine develops when someone uses cocaine over an extended period and begins to rely on this drug to function normally.

Cocaine dependence can develop at different rates in different people; genetics might play a significant role in how quickly someone becomes dependent on cocaine after their initial use of this drug.

Some of the phenomena of both cocaine dependence and withdrawal can be explained by the drug’s impact on dopamine neurotransmission within the brain. Cocaine use can dramatically increase the activity of the chemical messenger dopamine within brain circuits involved with motivation and reward.1

Cocaine-related increases in dopamine activity strongly reinforce continued use of the drug. However, over time and with repeated use, the brain of someone who uses cocaine adapts to the excess dopamine in its system, gradually becoming less sensitive to the effects of cocaine, causing them to require increasing amounts of the drug to avoid the onset of withdrawal symptoms, such as depression and insomnia.1
Additionally, cocaine is characterized as having an “explosive risk” for dependence, meaning that the time it takes someone to become dependent on cocaine after initial experimentation is faster than many other drugs.5

<h2>How Long Does Cocaine Withdrawal Last?</h2>
The onset of withdrawal symptoms for cocaine may depend on the type of cocaine that someone uses. For instance, regular crack cocaine use is associated with relatively faster onset of cocaine withdrawal symptoms, on the order of hours after it was last used. In general, acute cocaine withdrawal symptoms might last around 3-4 days.3 However, some symptoms of cocaine withdrawal can persist for 3-4 weeks in certain people.3

The severity and duration of longer lasting or more protracted withdrawal symptoms may differ between individuals. For example, one study evaluating recovery progress in those who suffer from cocaine addiction found that impulse control had not improved–even after 4 weeks of abstinence.6
More significant cases of cocaine withdrawal can increase a person’s risk for relapse. One study found that patients who scored high on a cocaine withdrawal severity test were four times more likely to resume cocaine use than those with low scores.7 Medically managed cocaine withdrawal provides medical and social support to ensure someone experiences a safe and comfortable withdrawal period, while mitigating their risk of relapse.6

<h2>Cocaine Detox and Withdrawal Management</h2>
Though stimulant withdrawal may not always be severe, it can still be unpleasant for someone enduring it–and could complicate their attempts at recovery. In such instances, cocaine withdrawal can be effectively managed through professional detox interventions.3

A <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox">medically supervised detox</a> protocol allows the body to clear itself of a stimulant while medical professionals monitor withdrawal progress and take any needed action to keep people safe and comfortable in early recovery. There are currently no medications specifically approved for cocaine withdrawal or treatment, but certain medications may be used during medical detox to help people manage troublesome cocaine withdrawal symptoms, such as insomnia.
Symptoms of stimulant withdrawal are often treated with rest, exercise, and a healthy diet. If someone suffers from severe or persistent depression during their withdrawal period, they may benefit from antidepressant treatment and additional psychiatric attention. During withdrawal from cocaine, someone’s drug cravings will likely be quite intense, and therefore they're at a high risk of relapse. Behavioral therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, contingency management, and relapse prevention techniques can help address these issues.7
Detox is often the first step in a substance use disorder (SUD) treatment program, but detox itself is not a substitute for more comprehensive rehabilitation. Instead, detox is often the precursor that prepares individuals to safely transition into a level of care that will help them address the behavioral, social, and psychological aspects of their stimulant use disorder.10
<h2>Cocaine Withdrawal Medications</h2>
No medications currently exist that are proven to effectively manage stimulant withdrawal. Though some researchers have investigated the efficacy of medications such as modafinil and amantadine for their potential benefit in managing cocaine withdrawal, none of these agents are currently FDA-approved for such use.3
However, as part of a withdrawal management program, a patient’s treatment team can administer various medications for symptomatic relief of issues (such as headache and insomnia) to keep the patient comfortable during their early recovery.3
Researchers remain active in the field of pharmacotherapeutic options working to discover how to best treat a variety of substance use disorders, with stimulant use disorders being among these potential targets.

<h2>Benefits of Medical Detox for Cocaine</h2>
Though stimulant withdrawal may not be as severe or immediately dangerous as some other types of acute withdrawal syndromes (such as those associated with alcohol or opioids), quitting cocaine and experiencing cocaine withdrawal can be unpleasant. In more severe cases, stimulant withdrawal can give rise to certain mental health complications, such as a withdrawal dysphoria or depression.3

Having a safe place to detox where healthcare professionals can monitor and manage symptoms can be essential for getting through the detoxification phase of treatment.10 Although some people relapse during any phase of their recovery process, being monitored by healthcare providers who can address relapses immediately can prove vital to helping someone in recovery get back on track.10

Medical withdrawal management carries three essential components meant to be of natural benefit to patients and facilitate their safe and effective withdrawal process. These components include:3
<ul>
 	<li>Evaluation. The detoxification provider should perform a thorough assessment of a patient’s current state of health, evaluate their social support system, and gain an in-depth understanding of what types of interventions may best suit the patient after detox.</li>
 	<li>Stabilization. Withdrawal management should help patients achieve a state of abstinence and medical stability.</li>
 	<li>Fostering a patient’s entry into treatment. Last, withdrawal management should serve to prepare patients for continuing their treatment to address the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of their substance use disorder.[/callout]</li>
</ul>
<h2>Cocaine Addiction Treatment</h2>
Promoting a patient’s entry into treatment is one of the most valuable aspects of professional withdrawal management, as many people benefit from additional substance use disorder rehabilitation efforts, whether it be residential treatment or outpatient care.3 <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Continued cocaine treatment</a> can provide a person in recovery with more focused behavioral therapy and other psychosocial interventions.3

Left untreated, cocaine addiction can be devastating to a person’s health and wellbeing. However, with proper treatment, people can recover from even severe substance use disorders and cocaine addiction.

There is help available, and you don’t have to recover from cocaine addiction alone. Call [phone] to <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">speak to an admissions navigator today</a> and begin getting immediate support for your stimulant recovery.

[sources]
<ol>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021, April 8). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/cocaine">Cocaine drug facts.</a></li>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022, May 2). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/cocaine/what-cocaine">What is cocaine?</a></li>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2015). <a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma15-4131.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TIP 45.</a></li>
 	<li class="li1">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2010, July). <a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma10-4554.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Protracted withdrawal.</a> Substance abuse treatment advisory, 9(1), 1–7.</li>
 	<li>Walsh, S. L., Donny, E. C., Nuzzo, P. A., Umbricht, A., &amp; Bigelow, G. E. (2010). <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871609002877" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cocaine abuse versus cocaine dependence: cocaine self-administration and pharmacodynamic response in the human laboratory. Drug and alcohol dependence, 106(1), 28–37.</a></li>
 	<li class="li1">Fox, H. C., Axelrod, S. R., Paliwal, P. J., Sleeper, J., &amp; Sinha, R. (2007). Difficulties in emotion regulation and impulse control during cocaine abstinence. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 89, 298–301.</li>
 	<li class="li1">Miller, S. C., Fiellin, D. A., Rosenthal, R. N., &amp; Saitz, R. (2019). The ASAM Principles of Addiction Medicine, Sixth Edition. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer.</li>
</ol>
[/sources]

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 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/how-long-in-system" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How Long Does Cocaine Stay in the Body?</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/differences-with-crack" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How is Cocaine Different from Crack?</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/effects-on-the-brain" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Effects of Cocaine on the Brain</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/how-to-help" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How to Help Someone Addicted to Cocaine</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/overdose-symptoms-and-dangers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Signs of a Cocaine Overdose</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox/same-day-admittance" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emergency Rehab</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/outpatient-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Outpatient Rehab</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/couples" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Couple's Rehab</a></li>
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[/link-bank]

Cocaine Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline, and Detox Treatment

<div class="row">
<div class="small-12 columns">
<h2>What is Fentanyl Withdrawal?</h2>
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but up to 100 times more potent.1 Prescribed to treat severe pain—such as that experienced immediately following surgery—<a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/fentanyl-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fentanyl</a> and other synthetic opioids are also manufactured and used illicitly.1

Fentanyl can be highly addictive due to its potency.1 It is among the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths in the United States.1 In fact, new data shows that overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids—and primarily fentanyl—increased from an estimated 70,029 in 2020 to 80,816 in 2021.2
<h2>Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal</h2>
Individuals who become addicted to fentanyl and try to abruptly discontinue use of the drug or drastically reduce their dose can experience fentanyl withdrawal symptoms, which may range from mild to severe, and include:3,4
<ul>
 	<li>Diarrhea and vomiting.</li>
 	<li>Nausea.</li>
 	<li>Tachycardia (increased heart rate).</li>
 	<li>Muscle or bone pain.</li>
 	<li>Hypertension (high blood pressure).</li>
 	<li>Insomnia.</li>
 	<li>Anxiety.</li>
 	<li>Increased body temperature.</li>
 	<li>Sweating.</li>
 	<li>Chills.</li>
</ul>
While typically not life-threatening, fentanyl withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, and the severity of symptoms depends on the amount, duration, type of <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/opiates" target="_blank" rel="noopener">opioid drug</a> used, and any underlying physical and mental health conditions.3 
In some cases, complications from <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/withdrawal-timelines-treatments/opiate" target="_blank" rel="noopener">opioid withdrawal</a> can occur. For instance, detoxing at home or without medical oversight can leave a person severely dehydrated, causing elevated sodium levels in the blood, and potentially leading to heart failure if persistent vomiting and diarrhea go untreated.5
Additionally, there is an increased risk of overdose for individuals who return to fentanyl use after a period of abstinence due to reduced opioid tolerance.6
<h2>Fentanyl Withdrawal Timeline</h2>
The severity of fentanyl withdrawal symptoms and the onset and duration of those symptoms depend on the extent of fentanyl use (how long it was used), the dose taken, and the frequency with which it was used.7,8

Short-acting opioids, such as morphine, and immediate-release formulations of medications like fentanyl, hydrocodone, and oxycodone result in the onset of withdrawal symptoms 8 to 24 hours after the last use.3 These symptoms usually peak in intensity 36 to 72 hours after the last dose and typically continue for 7 to 10 days but may last for a few weeks.8,9

Medications such as methadone and buprenorphine can help alleviate some of the symptoms of acute opioid withdrawal. Discuss options with your healthcare provider if you or a loved one is ready to get help for an opioid use disorder (OUD).8

</div>
</div>
<h2>Take Our Substance Misuse Self-Assessment</h2>
Take our free, 5-minute substance misuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance misuse. The evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are intended to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of a substance use disorder. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result.

[self-assessment]
<h2>Risk Factors and Causes of Fentanyl Withdrawal</h2>
Like many opioids, fentanyl’s reinforcing effects can make misuse—among illicit and prescription forms of the drug—more likely. That’s because fentanyl binds to the body’s opioid receptors, which are found in areas of the brain that control pain and emotion. Prolonged use of fentanyl can cause the brain to adapt to the drug and lead to tolerance (needing more of the drug to achieve the desired effect) and dependence.10 As an individual builds a tolerance to fentanyl, they require larger doses to get the same sensations, which leads them to take higher doses of fentanyl.10 Eventually, an individual may become physically dependent on fentanyl.11

Dependence is a physiological adaptation of the body to a substance, wherein the body becomes so used to the drug in the system that when the individual cuts back on their use or quits, withdrawal symptoms emerge. With significant levels of physiological dependence, a person may continue to compulsively drink or use drugs to avoid unwanted withdrawal symptoms.

Research indicates that several factors impact fentanyl withdrawal and put individuals at a greater risk of repeated withdrawal episodes and more severe symptoms. These factors include:3,12
<ul>
 	<li>The frequency of fentanyl use, the dose, and the duration of use.</li>
 	<li>The method of administration.</li>
 	<li>Polysubstance use, meaning fentanyl was taken in conjunction with other substances.</li>
 	<li>Underlying medical and/or mental health conditions.</li>
</ul>
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<h2>Fentanyl Detox and Withdrawal Treatment </h2>
Detoxification, or medically managed withdrawal, ensures an individual stays safe and remains as comfortable as possible while their body rids itself of fentanyl and any other substances.13

<a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Medical detox</a> from opioids is often the first step in a more comprehensive treatment plan since detox alone is not typically sufficient to sustain long-term recovery.13

Treatment varies depending on the unique needs of each person and the severity of their opioid use disorder but addresses the multiple needs of the individual and utilizes evidence-based behavioral therapies, individual and group counseling, and medications for addiction treatment to help individuals find lasting recovery beyond detoxification and withdrawal.4,8,13
<h3>How Long is Fentanyl Detox?</h3>
The length of time it takes the body to detox from fentanyl differs from person to person. Many variables affect symptom severity, including the amount, frequency, and duration of one’s use as well as the potency of the fentanyl used.14
<h3>Medications Used in Fentanyl Detox</h3>
There are safe, effective ways to manage the symptoms of withdrawal and help control cravings.

Healthcare professionals may prescribe medications to alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal but also long term to help keep cravings under control, maintain abstinence from prescription and illicit opioids, and reduce the risk of overdose.9 These medications include:9
<ul>
 	<li>An opioid agonist, methadone stimulates the same receptors in the brain as fentanyl but does not create the high associated with fentanyl. Instead, when taken as prescribed, methadone blocks cravings and alleviates withdrawal symptoms.</li>
 	<li>A partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine attaches to the same receptors that fentanyl does but only partially activates, which helps ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings.</li>
</ul>
Additionally, lofexidine hydrochloride, a non-opioid treatment, approved by the FDA in 2018, can lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms to help facilitate the discontinuation of fentanyl.15

If you or someone you love struggles with fentanyl misuse or addiction, don't wait. Call American Addiction Centers today [phone].

[link-bank title="You Might Also Be Interested In"]
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/fentanyl-treatment/side-effects" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fentanyl Side Effects &amp; Dangers</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/fentanyl-treatment/how-long-in-system" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How Long Does Fentanyl Stay In Your System?</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/fentanyl-treatment/rehab-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fentanyl Rehab Treatment Centers</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Drug Detox Facilities</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/inpatient" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Inpatient Rehab Treatment</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Substance Abuse Treatment</a></li>
</ul>
[/link-bank]

[sources]
<ol>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fentanyl drug facts.</a></li>
 	<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2022/202205.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">U.S. Overdose Deaths in 2021 Increased Half as Much as in 2020—But are Still Up 15%</a>.</li>
 	<li>Pergolizzi, J., Raffa, R., &amp; Rosenblatt, M. (2020, January 27). <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jcpt.13114" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Opioid withdrawal symptoms, a consequence of chronic opioid use and opioid use disorder: Current understanding and approaches to management.</a> Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 45(5), 892-903.</li>
 	<li>Shaw, M. &amp; Huecker, M. (2022). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526012/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Opioid withdrawal.</a> StatPearls Publishing.</li>
 	<li>Darke, S., Larney, S., &amp; Farrell, M. (2017, February). <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.13512" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yes, people can die from opioid withdrawal.</a> Addiction: Society for the Study of Addiction, 112(2), 199-200.</li>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/about-nida/noras-blog/2022/01/making-addiction-treatment-more-realistic-pragmatic-perfect-should-not-be-enemy-good" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Making Addiction Treatment More Realistic and Pragmatic: The Perfect Should Not be the Enemy of the Good</a>.</li>
 	<li>World Health Organization. (2009). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/?report=classic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Clinical guidelines for withdrawal management and treatment of drug dependence in closed settings</a>.</li>
 	<li>Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). <a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma15-4131.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Treatment improvement protocol (TIP 45): Detoxification and substance abuse treatment</a>, 66-67.</li>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). <a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/SAMHSA_Digital_Download/PEP21-02-01-002.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Medications for Opioid Use Disorder: Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP 63).</a></li>
 	<li>Kosten, T. R., &amp; George, T. P. (2002). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2851054/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The neurobiology of opioid dependence: implications for treatment</a>. Science &amp; practice perspectives, 1(1), 13–20.</li>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/prescription-opioids" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Prescription opioids: DrugFacts</a>.</li>
 	<li>Bluthenthal RN, Simpson K, Ceasar RC, Zhao J, Wenger L, Kral AH. (2020). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7259345/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Opioid withdrawal symptoms, frequency, and pain characteristics as correlates of health risks among people who inject drugs</a>. Drug Alcohol Depend, 211:107932.</li>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/675-principles-of-drug-addiction-treatment-a-research-based-guide-third-edition.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Principles of effective treatment.</a></li>
 	<li>Kleber, H. (2007). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3202507/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pharmacologic treatment for opioid dependence: Detoxification and maintenance options.</a> Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 9(4), 455-470.</li>
 	<li>U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018, May 16). <a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-non-opioid-treatment-management-opioid-withdrawal-symptoms-adults" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FDA approves the first non-opioid treatment for the management of opioid withdrawal symptoms in adults.</a></li>
</ol>
[/sources]

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, and Detox Treatment

Does Medicaid Cover Drug and Alcohol Rehab?

[content-overview]It should come as no surprise that college drinking can become problematic, especially since many students are still underage. However, this issue may be more serious than many people realize. According to a national survey, more than half of full-time college students ages 18­ through 22 drank alcohol in the past month, and one-third engaged in binge drinking during the same period of time.1[/content-overview]

The various dangers associated with those statistics can have lifelong consequences. The purpose of this page is to educate readers about the realities and risks of college drinking and to provide resources to turn to if you or someone you know needs help.

[callout-borders]American Addiction Centers provides targeted young adult addiction treatment services at each of our nationwide treatment centers. Call [phone][/callout-borders]
<h2>College Drinking Statistics and Prevalence</h2>
Some alarming statistics regarding college drinking include:1
<ul>
 	<li>Over 1,500 students between the ages of 18 and 24 die from alcohol-related, unintentional injuries each year.</li>
 	<li>Approximately 1 in 5 college women are sexually assaulted during their time in college and the majority of those assaults involve alcohol or drugs.</li>
 	<li>Almost 700,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 are assaulted by another student who has been drinking each year.</li>
 	<li>In 2019, almost 10% of full-time college students met the criteria for an <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">alcohol use disorder (AUD)</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Why Do College Students Drink?</h2>
The reasons why college students drink vary since individual students are unique. For some, drinking is a coping mechanism or a way to deal with the stress and pressures of daily life. For other students, drinking helps them feel less inhibited and more comfortable in social situations. Some students who drink might just be exploring pushing previously-forbidden boundaries while living on their own for the first time. It can be easy to forget that many college students are still teenagers, after all, and just want to fit in with their peers (and sometimes push the status quo).

Social camaraderie, in particular, is frequently cited as a reason for drinking amongst college students, with most college drinking done in social settings.2 Drinking has become such a part of college culture that it is normalized for many students.2 However, what often causes more negative consequences than social drinking is the act of drinking to relieve stress and anxiety; drinking as a coping mechanism for mood enhancement or to reduce tension is associated with greater long-term problems than social drinking.2

[segment-cta type="value-prop"]
<h2>Binge Drinking and Alcoholism</h2>
In order to identify problem drinking, you must first understand what an AUD is. AUD is characterized by an inability to control or discontinue the use of alcohol, despite it having a negative impact on one’s occupational, social, emotional, or physical health.3 It is considered a brain disease and is on a spectrum of mild, moderate, or severe.3

<a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/binge-drinking-problem" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Binge drinking</a> is a pattern of drinking that raises a person’s blood alcohol concentration to .08%. For men, that is approximately 5 drinks in two hours, and for women approximately 4 drinks in two hours.4 Binge drinking, or any type of habitual drinking, is considered a problem when it begins to negatively impact a person’s life.
<h2>Consequences of College-Age Alcohol Abuse</h2>
For college students, some of the consequences of heavy drinking to be aware of include:1
<ul>
 	<li>Poor classroom performance.</li>
 	<li>Putting one’s self in high-risk situations such as drinking and driving.</li>
 	<li>Having unsafe sex.</li>
 	<li>Becoming the victim of sexual assault.</li>
 	<li>Vandalism or other criminal activities.</li>
</ul>
[callout]
<h2>How to Address Drinking in College</h2>
First-year students, and those involved in athletics or the Greek community, especially students who live in fraternity or sorority houses, are considered high-risk student populations for alcohol use.

The most successful efforts to address college drinking involve a mix of strategies that target individual students, the student body, and the community.1 Education and awareness programs, behavioral health interventions by counselors or therapists, and motivation and feedback related approaches to drinking can be effective. Policies related to sales and access to alcohol also need to be addressed in order to help change the environments where drinking most often occurs.1

Parents and university administrators can benefit from keeping the lines of communication open with students. Students need to be educated about the warning signs of alcohol overdose, as well as what the campus (and legal) penalties for underage drinking are. Resources like counseling services and other campus outreach programs to address problem drinking should be easily accessible to students who are concerned about their own drinking habits or about the habits of their friends. Providing education about low-risk choices for students who do choose to drink, such as safe-ride programs, should be part of the conversation as well.5[/callout]
<h2>Alcohol Poisoning and Overdose</h2>
Thousands of college students are taken to the hospital each year for alcohol poisoning or overdose.1 <a href="/alcoholism-treatment/overdose">Alcohol overdose</a> occurs when a person consumes so much alcohol that the parts of the brain that control basic life-support like breathing and heart rate begin to shut down.1

Warning signs of alcohol overdose can include:1
<ul>
 	<li>Mental confusion.</li>
 	<li>Inability to stay awake.</li>
 	<li>Vomiting.</li>
 	<li>Seizures.</li>
 	<li>Slowed or irregular breathing.</li>
 	<li>Slowed heart rate.</li>
 	<li>Clammy skin.</li>
 	<li>Low body temperature/pale-bluish skin.</li>
</ul>
Alcohol overdose can lead to permanent brain damage or death, so if you suspect someone might be at risk, call 911 immediately.

College students should also be aware of Good Samaritan laws in the event a friend or someone they are with is in trouble. Many college campuses have Good Samaritan Policies written in their student handbooks or code of conduct that provide amnesty for alcohol and drug violations in the event of a medical emergency.6

[callout-borders]
<h2>Resources for College Students</h2>
Student health services on campus can be a good starting point for students who need resources to address alcohol-related issues. <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol-rehab" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alcohol rehab</a> can also help college students recover from substance abuse and return to a healthy lifestyle. There are also several hotlines that can offer help and resources to anyone with concerns about drug or alcohol abuse 24/7.
<ul>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration hotline: 1-800-662-HELP</li>
 	<li>com hotline: 1-866-361-0367</li>
 	<li>National Council on Alcohol and Drug dependence: 1-800-622-2255</li>
 	<li>Al-Anon and Ala-teen hotline: 800-356-9996[/callout-borders]</li>
</ul>
[link-bank title="You Might Also Be Interested In"]
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/withdrawal-timelines-treatments/alcohol">Signs of Alcohol Withdrawal</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/how-long-in-system">How Long Does Alcohol Stay In Your Body?</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol-rehab/cost">The Cost of Alcohol Rehab</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/how-to-talk">How to Talk to an Alcoholic</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol-rehab/insurance-coverage">Does Insurance Cover Alcohol Rehab?</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/children">Impacts of Alcoholism on Children</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/the-functioning-addict">Signs of a Functioning Alcoholic</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/mental-effects">Mental Impacts of Alcoholism</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/blackout">Signs of an Alcohol Black Out</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/inpatient">Inpatient Alcohol Rehab Centers</a></li>
</ul>
[/link-bank]

Sources:
<ol>
 	<li>National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021, October). <a href="https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/college-drinking" target="_blank" rel="noopener">College Drinking</a>.</li>
 	<li>Labrie, J.W., Hummer, J.F., &amp; Pederson, E.R. (2007). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4214145/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reasons for Drinking in the College Context: the Differential Role of Risk and Social Motivator</a>. Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, 68(3), 393–398.</li>
 	<li>National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021 April). <a href="https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder</a>.</li>
 	<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, December 30). <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/binge-drinking.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Binge Drinking</a>.</li>
 	<li>National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2019). <a href="https://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/CollegeAIM/Resources/NIAAA_College_Matrix_Booklet.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">College AIM Alcohol Intervention Matrix</a>.</li>
 	<li>Gross, L. (2013, December). <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/12/02/good-samaritan-college/3809373/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'Good Samaritan' policy encourages students to dial 911</a>.</li>
</ol>
&nbsp;

College Binge Drinking & Alcohol Abuse: Risks & Impacts

[content-overview]Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) utilizes specific medications, approved by the FDA, in conjunction with counseling and behavioral therapy to aid in the treatment and recovery of substance use disorders (SUD).1 

[/content-overview]Suboxone has been shown to have a similar efficacy rate as methadone for the treatment of opioid use disorders. Because it is less habit-forming, it is a sought-after medication for the treatment of opioid addiction.2

[callout-borders]American Addiction Centers offers <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/addiction-medications" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">medication-assisted treatment</a> at most of our rehabilitation centers across the United States. Call [phone][/callout-borders]
<h2>What is Suboxone?</h2>
Suboxone is a prescription medication often used to help people stop using opioids like heroin. It can also be helpful for people who abuse stronger prescription opioids. <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/suboxone" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Suboxone</a> is the brand name for a combination of two drugs; buprenorphine and naloxone.

Buprenorphine is an opioid medication that produces a weaker effect than drugs like heroin. The effect of buprenorphine also levels off even if the dose is increased, which reduces the risk of both dependency and overdose.3 Naloxone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the euphoric effects of other opioid drugs.2

Suboxone helps reduce cravings in people with opioid addictions. It is becoming a more attractive option than methadone, particularly because there is less risk of dependence.3
<h2>How to Find Suboxone Treatment and Doctors in California?</h2>
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has made it easy to locate Suboxone treatment providers in California. The Buprenorphine Practitioner Locator page on their website lists doctors who can prescribe Suboxone in every state. Just click California on the map and scroll through hundreds of providers throughout the state who can help.4 Note that it is not an exhaustive list. SAMHSA also lists 165 treatment facilities in California for people seeking treatment for <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/opiates" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">opioid use disorders</a>.5

Suboxone treatment is available and can be initiated in hospital emergency departments.6 In response to the COVID-19 global health crisis, Suboxone and other MAT prescriptions can be obtained through a telehealth or phone appointment.7

However, in many cases, you can still receive Suboxone through attending <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers/california" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">rehab in California</a>. Physicians are required to obtain a special license to prescribe Suboxone and other controlled substances that help with opioid use disorders (OUD).7 While telemedicine can have its drawbacks, it reaches a much broader scope of people seeking treatment, especially for those in rural communities where access to healthcare is limited. Many insurance companies now cover telehealth appointments like they do in-person appointments.7
<h2>Suboxone Cost and Insurance Coverage in California</h2>
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 requires health insurers to provide some level of coverage for the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders in the same way they cover medical and surgical procedures.8 State regulations and provider policies may differ, but a certain level of coverage is required. The same is true of Medicaid. All states reimburse for some form of medications for MAT.9 Check with your insurance carrier to find out the specifics of your plan. <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/insurance-coverage/suboxone" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Suboxone treatment insurance</a> coverage depends on your particular policy, your needs, and more.

To determine whether your insurance may cover MAT or another form of addiction treatment in California, use our simple insurance contact form below.

[vob]
<h2>Suboxone Statistics and Laws in California</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>In California, approximately 45% of drug overdose deaths involved opioids in 2018.10</li>
 	<li>Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program, has seen the number of recipients who have been prescribed Buprenorphine nearly quadruple from 2014 to 2018.11</li>
 	<li>The California MAT Expansion Project was implemented in 2017 to increase access to MAT, particularly to those in rural, American Indian, and Alaska Native tribal communities.12</li>
 	<li>The MAT Expansion Project provided care to 22,000 new patients in California between 2017 and 2019.12</li>
 	<li>In addition, the California MAT Expansion Project created 650 new access point locations where people can receive treatment for OUD; it also trained 395 new providers who can prescribe buprenorphine, the main ingredient in Suboxone.12</li>
</ul>
[link-bank title="You Might Also Be Interested In"]
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/suboxone/withdrawal" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Does Suboxone Cause Withdrawal?</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/suboxone/how-long-in-system" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How Long Does Suboxone Stay In Your Body?</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/suboxone/side-effects" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Side Effects of Suboxone Use</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers/california/orange-county" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Orange County Rehab Near Me</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers/california/los-angeles" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Los Angeles Rehab Near Me</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Drug Detox Centers</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/outpatient-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Outpatient Treatment</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/90-day-rehab-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">90 Day Rehab Centers</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/state-funded" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">State Funded Rehab Near Me</a></li>
</ul>
[/link-bank]

[sources]
<ol>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (Updated 1/4/21). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Medication-Assisted Treatment.</a></li>
 	<li>Velander, J. (2018). Suboxone: <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5855417/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rationale, Science and Misconceptions</a>. The Oschner Journal. NCBI.</li>
 	<li>National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). (September 2, 2016). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK385163/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Buprenorphine/Naloxone versus Methadone for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence: A Review of Comparative Clinical Effectiveness, Cost-Effectiveness and Guidelines.</a></li>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/find-treatment/treatment-practitioner-locator" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Buprenorphine Practitioner Locator</a>.</li>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). <a href="https://dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Opioid Treatment Program Directory.</a></li>
 	<li>Donofrio, G. O’conn0r, P. Pantalon, M. (2015). <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2279713" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Emergency Department-Initiated Buprenorphine/Naloxone Treatment for Opioid Dependence.</a> Journal of the American Medical Association.</li>
 	<li>Galewitz, P. (April 22, 2020). <a href="https://californiahealthline.org/news/coronavirus-crisis-opens-access-to-online-opioid-addiction-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Coronavirus Crisis Opens Access to Online Opioid Addiction Treatment.</a>org.</li>
 	<li>S. Department of Health and Human Services. (September 1, 2020). <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/treatment/insurance-coverage/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Does Insurance Cover Treatment for Opioid Addiction?</a> HHS.gov.</li>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2018). <a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/medicaidfinancingmatreport_0.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Medicaid Coverage of Medication Assisted Treatment for Alcohol and Opioid Use Disorders and of Medication for the Reversal of Opioid Overdose.</a></li>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse. (April 3, 2020). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">California Opioid-Involved Deaths and Related Harms.</a></li>
 	<li>Rowan, H. (May 23, 2019). <a href="https://californiahealthline.org/multimedia/use-of-buprenorphine-to-treat-opioid-addiction-proliferates-in-california/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Use of Buprenorphine to Treat Opioid Addiction Proliferates in California.</a>org.</li>
 	<li>California Department of Healthcare Services. (September 29, 2019). <a href="https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Documents/State-Opioid-Response-Grant_Performance-Progress-Report-Year-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">State Opioid Response Grant Performance Progress Report.</a>ca.gov.</li>
</ol>
[/sources]

Suboxone Treatment and Clinics in California (How to get Suboxone in California)

<h2>What is Short Term Rehab?</h2>
While there is not a specific, pre-determined amount of time that constitutes short-term rehab, there are some basic outlines as to what “short-term” means in terms of treatment. Short-term rehab will usually be less than 30 days and will always be less than 90 days in a residential treatment facility.1

Within that framework, it can range between three-day rehab programs up to ten-day rehab programs or even up to a few weeks.1 <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/30-day-rehab-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener">28-day and 30-day inpatient programs</a> are common and still fall under the umbrella of short-term rehab.
<h3>3, 5, or 7 Day Rehab Programs</h3>
People typically want to know whether there are really short rehab programs like 3 day, 5 day, 7 day or 2 week rehab programs. Due to the nature of addiction, rehab typically lasts much longer than that in order to really help patients overcome their addiction in a long-term capacity. Detox programs, where patients are medically monitored in order to overcome the uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal, may last a few days to weeks depending on the drug, but thereafter <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/inpatient">inpatient addiction treatment</a> is usually the next step in order to learn coping strategies and attend supervised therapies to reinforce long-term recovery. Depending on the needs of the patient, the length of stay will vary in this aspect.
<h3>After Rehab</h3>
Typically, after a person completes even a short stay in an inpatient program, it is recommended they continue treatment in an outpatient setting for a period of time. It is important for people to stay engaged in the treatment process after they leave a residential facility in order to help prevent relapse and reinforce new routines and coping skills.1

Many people find 12-step programs, like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, to be beneficial and a vital source of support. Meetings are free and confidential and plentiful enough to meet most people’s scheduling needs. Others may find that working with a counselor in an outpatient setting is helpful. Often that includes individual and group sessions with a licensed counselor or therapist and can be another way to connect with people who can relate to the challenges of early recovery.
<h2>Pros and Cons of Short-Term Rehab</h2>
There are advantages and disadvantages to various lengths of stay in treatment. There are many factors to consider, like the amount of time away from family and work, the cost and location of the program, and the severity of addiction and <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/withdrawal-timelines-treatments">withdrawal symptoms</a>. Short-term rehab may be the only option for some people. While any type of treatment is beneficial, there is evidence suggesting that remaining in treatment for an adequate length of time is vital to sustained recovery.2

However, not everyone can take time off work or step away from their responsibilities at home for long periods of time, and hence why short-term rehab is an option. It is important to remember that while a primary goal of treatment is to stop using drugs or alcohol, any amount of treatment will likely be a catalyst for a person to examine their relationship to their substance of choice and hopefully make some positive changes in their life.
<h2>Is Short-Term Rehab Effective?</h2>
Admitting that drugs or alcohol are negatively impacting one’s life and seeking help are the first steps in the treatment process, and short-term rehab can be enough to kick start a person’s journey into sobriety. Short-term rehab will begin with a person going through detox, if they haven’t already.2 Detox is the very first step in the treatment process.  A <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox">medically supervised detox</a>, which is a part of many rehab programs, can help manage severe withdrawal symptoms and cravings.2 Patients are monitored by healthcare providers, and sometimes medication is used to manage acute symptoms and help stabilize a person, both mentally and physically, in the early recovery process.2

Remember, any length of treatment can be lifesaving for someone battling addiction. While extended treatment (at least three months) is associated with better outcomes, for many people, continuing with outpatient care after a short stint in rehab is sufficient to maintain recovery.2

<a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/outpatient-treatment">Outpatient rehab programs</a> often use behavioral therapies, including individual, <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/family-therapy">family</a>, or group counseling sessions, to help improve coping skills and interpersonal relationships.2 Building support and accountability is valuable, especially during early recovery, and counseling, peer support, and community support groups like AA can provide that foundation. In addition, as a person continues to grow throughout the treatment process, their immediate needs may change, also making a case for continuing care after rehab. Once they have managed to stop using drugs or alcohol, they may need help with legal issues, vocational training, therapy to address mental health disorders, and more.2
<h2>How Much Does Short-Term Rehab Cost?</h2>
Short-term rehab costs vary, depending on the particular treatment facility, the services provided, and a person's insurance coverage. American Addiction Centers can help you navigate the process by finding out exactly what your individual insurance plan will cover and if there are any state-funded options or payment plans available. Fill out the form below if you are curious about your behavioral health coverage. Don't give up if you or someone you love is struggling with addiction. There is help available.

[vob]

[link-bank title="You Might Also Be Interested In"]
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox/same-day-admittance">Same Day Detox Admissions</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/60-day-rehab-program">60 Day Rehab Programs</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/90-day-rehab-program">90 Day Rehab Programs</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/residential">Long-Term Residential Rehab Programs</a></li>
</ul>
[/link-bank]
[sources]
<ol>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (January 2018). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/675-principles-of-drug-addiction-treatment-a-research-based-guide-third-edition.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Types of Treatment Programs</a>.</li>
 	<li>National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (January 2018). <a href="https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/675-principles-of-drug-addiction-treatment-a-research-based-guide-third-edition.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Principals of Effective Treatment</a>.</li>
</ol>
[/sources]

Short-Term Rehab Addiction Treatment Programs

Despite the potential danger of this condition, women who are pregnant and suffering from OUD can take actionable measures to treat their opioid addiction as well as safely manage NAS, should it arise, to prevent or minimize harm to their newborn infant. Though this condition demands urgent medical attention, women who are pregnant can reduce potential complications with their newborn’s health and birth with the proper treatment interventions. This page will provide information regarding neonatal abstinence syndrome and what pregnant women who are struggling with OUD can do to protect their health and the health of their child.2
<h2>What Is Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome?</h2>
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a collection of physiological and neurobehavioral <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/withdrawal-timelines-treatments">signs of withdrawal</a> that occur in newborns after they are repeatedly exposed to opioid drugs while in utero.2 NAS is a nonspecific term that labels the presentation of various withdrawal symptoms in infants after they’re born.2 More specifically, neonatal abstinence syndrome may now be referred to as neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) in some medical literature.2  Some symptoms of NAS can be serious but this condition is treatable.3
<h2>Causes and Risk Factors of NAS</h2>
Neonatal abstinence syndrome may develop in association with intrauterine exposure to certain drugs and/or medications and the newborn’s abrupt withdrawal from those substances upon birth.4 Though several neonatal withdrawal syndromes may result from various types of drug exposure, the term NAS often designates the abstinence syndrome that specifically arises in connection with maternal opioid drug use.4

Common causes and risk factors of NAS may include:5
<ul>
 	<li>Using illicit opioid drugs during pregnancy (with specific opioid type and average dose used further altering this risk).</li>
 	<li>Concurrent exposure to additional substances during pregnancy—such as nicotine and benzodiazepines—may also alter the onset and severity of NAS.</li>
 	<li>Maternal factors such as poor nutritional status and stress.</li>
 	<li>Environmental factors, such as quality of neonatal care, adequate stimulation, and maternal contact.</li>
 	<li>Genetic variables and other physiological differences such as rates of placental opioid metabolism.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Symptoms of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome</h2>
After intrauterine opioid exposure, many infants will develop symptoms of NAS in the first 24-48 hours after they are born. 6 However, symptoms are sometimes slower to appear, with first presentation as many as 5 to 10 days after birth.6 The severity and length of symptoms will vary based on the type of drugs used during pregnancy, when the last use occurred, and the gestational age of the infant.6

Symptoms of neonatal abstinence syndrome will be closely monitored and graded in terms of severity. Such symptoms may manifest across a variety of organ systems and physiological functions—for example, metabolic, vasomotor, central nervous system, respiratory system, and gastrointestinal issues.4

Symptoms of NAS may include the following: 4,5,6
<ul>
 	<li>High-pitched crying.</li>
 	<li>Sleep disturbances.</li>
 	<li>Tachypnea or rapid breathing.</li>
 	<li>Tachycardia or increased heart rate.</li>
 	<li>Sweating.</li>
 	<li>Mottled skin.</li>
 	<li>Projectile vomiting.</li>
 	<li>Diarrhea.</li>
 	<li>Gastric regurgitation.</li>
 	<li>Poor-feeding, possibly leading to weight loss and failure to thrive.</li>
 	<li>Hyper-irritability.</li>
 	<li>Increased muscle tone.</li>
 	<li>Myoclonus (muscle jerks).</li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/shakes-tremors">Tremors</a>.</li>
 	<li>Seizures.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Diagnosis</h2>
Establishing a good relationship with a doctor or midwife who is experienced in working with pregnant women that have substance use disorders will be particularly important for proper diagnosis and treatment of neonatal abstinence syndrome.7

Early prenatal care can help prevent complications, and doctors may also encourage certain behaviors to help women stay healthy throughout their pregnancies.2 Ensuring that a woman with OUD is living in a safe, stable environment can promote success in both recovery and family planning.2

Providing women with information about labor, delivery, and post-natal care before the baby is born can help empower new mothers. Topics they may want to discuss with their doctors include establishing safe options for pain management during delivery, the benefits of breastfeeding, safe sleeping practices for infants, hormonal changes, and the possibility of postpartum depression and how to treat it.2

Benefits of breastfeeding include:2
<ul>
 	<li>A decrease in the severity of withdrawal symptoms.</li>
 	<li>A reduction in the need for medical intervention.</li>
 	<li>A decrease in the length of treatment and hospitalization.</li>
</ul>
Various means of screening or assessment may be used to help evaluate and monitor infant progress when managing NAS. The Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring Tool is one of the most widely used assessments for NAS and is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. 5 It is designed to quantify the severity of symptoms of NAS in a newborn and determine the necessity for pharmacological interventions to help ease withdrawal symptoms.4

Because of the stigma and potential legal consequences often associated with substance abuse, it is important for doctors to take a compassionate, non-judgmental approach when evaluating a mother for risk factors of NAS in her unborn or newborn child.5 Doctors will take a thorough maternal history of substance use; however, in the absence of self-reporting, a doctor may also use toxicology tests for either the mother or infant.5
<h2>Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Treatment</h2>
Treatment for a newborn with NAS will depend on the severity of symptoms, but it may include the following: 4
<ul>
 	<li>Swaddling.</li>
 	<li>Skin-to-skin contact.</li>
 	<li>Gentle rocking.</li>
 	<li>Pacifiers.</li>
 	<li>Frequent small feedings.</li>
 	<li>Massage.</li>
 	<li>Medication.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Finding Help for OUD &amp; Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome</h2>
If a woman is pregnant and struggling with OUD, she should immediately seek the help of a medical professional. To do this, she may begin by contacting her general physician, a psychiatrist, an OBGYN, or a treatment center/clinic specifically designed to treat women who are pregnant.

Certain helplines also exist for mothers who are pregnant and struggling with OUD, including:
<ul>
 	<li>1-800-662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA’s National Helpline for families. This phone line is free, confidential, and will help you find information regarding treatment.</li>
 	<li>1-800-662-4357 (for Medicaid users) or 888-986-7502 (for private insurance users). AAC’s helpline.</li>
 	<li>1-866-942-6466. American Pregnancy Helpline. This line offers free, confidential information and support for young women who are pregnant and using substances.</li>
 	<li>1-800-622-2255. National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD). This provides resources and treatment connections for pregnant women using substances. Resources are also available specifically for underage teens.</li>
</ul>
There are various treatment interventions that may fit the needs of a woman who is pregnant and struggling with OUD, including <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/addiction-medications">medication-assisted treatment</a> with opioid agonist agents such as buprenorphine or methadone to manage her opioid use.3

Women who are receiving OUD medications before or during pregnancy generally do not have to stop their OUD medications during pregnancy. In fact, women in treatment for OUD during their pregnancy, whether with pharmacological medications or medications in combination with behavioral interventions, tend to have healthier pregnancies than women who do not receive treatment for their OUD during pregnancy.3

A treating physician may also prescribe a woman who is pregnant and struggling with opioid addiction other medications for specific health issues, as well as encourage her to engage in behavioral treatment interventions like <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/therapy-treatment/cognitive-behavioral-therapy">cognitive behavioral therapy</a> to address the underlying causes of her OUD. 3

Remember, the treatment regimen prescribed to a someone during pregnancy to treat OUD is entirely specific to that person.3 If you are pregnant and struggling with opioid addiction, be sure to discuss the best options for you and your baby with your physician and follow the medical advice of your provider.

There are programs specifically designed to help pregnant women who are seeking treatment. For example, certain drug and alcohol treatment centers are capable of safely addressing the unique needs of expecting mothers.

The most important step is getting help if you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder. Sometimes rehab is the best option for women who are pregnant and struggling with substance abuse, and American Addiction Centers can help guide you through the process. Call [phone number] or click this link for more information on treatment programs of all kinds, including ones specifically designed for <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/pregnant-women" target="_blank" rel="noopener">pregnant women</a>.

[vob]
<h2>Long-Term Effects and Outlook of NAS</h2>
Though the longer-term impact of NAS/NOWS continues to be an area of study, treatment interventions for both you and your newborn can make a decidedly positive impact on your health and your baby’s development.6

Pharmacological intervention, or the use of medications in treating a pregnant woman struggling with opioid addiction or an infant born with NAS, is a cornerstone in treating NAS and preventing or controlling severe symptoms of this condition. However, non-pharmacological interventions may also be helpful in treating infants born with NAS in conjunction with proper medications.6

Intervening early and offering integrated support and services can build trust between patient and provider and help prevent or reverse any potentially harmful  health effects of NAS.  Creating a safe environment for mother and child, with access to nutritious food, community support like parenting classes or new mother support groups can be protective factors that shape a child’s development throughout their lives.2

[segment-cta]
<h2>Facts and Statistics on NAS</h2>
Key points to remember about NAS include:6
<ul>
 	<li>NAS occurs when babies are exposed to drugs or certain medications while in the womb.</li>
 	<li>Symptoms of withdrawal can begin as soon as 24 hours after birth or as many as 10 days after birth.</li>
 	<li>Some babies will require medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and make them comfortable.</li>
 	<li>Medication is available for infants with severe symptoms of NAS.</li>
 	<li>NAS is also treatable for many infants with a variety non-pharmacological treatment interventions.</li>
</ul>
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 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox/pregnant">Undergoing Detox While Pregnant</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/xanax-treatment/pregnancy">Dangers of Xanax While Pregnant</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/dangers-pregnancy">Dangers of Cocaine While Pregnant</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/heroin-treatment/dangers-pregnancy">Dangers of Heroin While Pregnant</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox/same-day-admittance">Same Day Drug Detox</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/insurance-coverage/using-medicaid-to-pay-for-rehab">Using Medicaid for Drug Rehab</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/alcohol-drug-hotline">Call an Addiction Hotline</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/inpatient">Inpatient Rehab Facilities</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/state-funded">State Funded Rehab</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/co-occurring-disorders">Dual Diagnosis Treatment</a></li>
</ul>
[/link-bank]

[sources]
<ol>
 	<li>Janson, L. M. and Patrick, S. W. (2019, April). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7605356/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome</a>. Pediatric Clinics of North America, 66,(2, 353-367.</li>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). <a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/pre_pregnancy_info_sheet_042219_508_0.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Medications to Treat Opioid Use Disorder During Pregnancy</a>. </li>
 	<li>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). <a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma18-5054.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Clinical Guidance for Treating Pregnant and Parenting Women with Opioid Use Disorder and their Infants.</a></li>
 	<li>Anbalagan, S. and Mendez, M. D. (2021, July 22). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551498/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome</a>. StatPearls Publishing. National Center for Biotechnology Information.</li>
 	<li>McQueen, K., and Muphey-Oikonen, J. (2016, December 22). <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra1600879" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome</a>. The New England Journal of Medicine, 375(25), 2468-2479.</li>
 	<li>Mangat, A. K., Schmölzer, G. M., and Kraft, W. K. (2019, February 5). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6451887/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Treatments for the Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)</a>. Seminars in Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, 24(2), 133-141.</li>
</ol>
[/sources]

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

<h2>Statistics &amp; Facts on Substance Abuse in Nurses</h2>
<ul>
 	<li>The rate of nurses’ substance use is normative with the general population estimates of substance use; that is, between 6% and 8%.2</li>
 	<li>18% of nurses showed signs of substance abuse problems, while one-third of this population (6.6% of the entire population) qualified for having a full-blown substance use disorder.2</li>
 	<li>Substance abuse is still stigmatized in the field of nursing. Many nurses who recover from substance abuse issues tend to feel stressed about re-entering the healthcare field because of the restrictions placed on them upon reentry (more restrictive schedules, drug testing, monitoring, and required attendance at support meetings, like AA).1</li>
 	<li>Many nurses report using substances to cope with stressors, or watching peers cope with stress by using substances.1</li>
 	<li>Illicit and prescription drug use are most common in home health and hospice nurses and nurses who work in nursing homes.2</li>
</ul>
[segment-cta]
<h2>Signs of Unhealthy Substance Use in Nurses</h2>
Some warning signs of substance misuse are universal, such as tension or conflict within family relationships and changes in work habits like tardiness and absence.3 However, there are also warning signs of substance abuse more specific to healthcare workers, such as nurses, that may include: conflicts with patients or patient’s families, charting errors or omissions, dramatic mood swings, and social and professional isolation.3 Impaired job performance is a clear warning sign of <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/healthcare-professionals">substance abuse in healthcare professionals</a>, but symptoms of impairment are often not as easily apparent as being in a daze or increased sleepiness.1
<h2>Risk Factors for Addiction in Nurses</h2>
Some risk factors for developing addiction may apply to anyone, including a family history of substance abuse and experiencing past emotional or physical trauma.3 Stress, either at work or at home, can also be a contributing factor of substance use, but nurses in particular often cite job stress as a major factor in choosing to use alcohol or drugs.3

<a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/occupational-stress-influences">Workplace stress</a> may be caused or worsened by:3
<ul>
 	<li>Staffing shortages.</li>
 	<li>Excessive workloads.</li>
 	<li>Rotating shifts.</li>
 	<li>Working overtime.</li>
 	<li>Covering multiple units.</li>
</ul>
Nurses who work in the intensive care unit or emergency departments may have other unique risk factors, such as the increased frequency of dealing with death, an unpredictable work pace, and stress and insecurity resulting from heavy work demands, some of which may exceed their scope of practice.3

Nurses who work in the intensive care unit or emergency departments may have other unique risk factors, such as the increased frequency of dealing with death, an unpredictable work pace, and stress and insecurity resulting from heavy work demands, some of which may exceed their scope of practice.3 
<h2>Consequences of Addiction in Nurses</h2>
Substance abuse tends to have a ripple effect, affecting not only the person struggling with addiction but also those around them.  Incorrect charting, forgotten orders, decreased quality of care, and workplace accidents can have devastating consequences for patients.3 However, a fear of punishment or termination may inhibit nurses from asking for help and coworkers from reporting a colleague they suspect of substance abuse.4

In addition to the conflicts between coworkers and family members that can arise when any employed person has a substance use disorder, nurses can potentially be at risk of having  their license temporarily suspended if they are found to be impaired on the job, but this depends on their workplace’s location.3
<h2>Substance Abuse Treatment for Nurses</h2>
Early identification and treatment are the goals of intervention for nurses with substance use disorders.3

Rehab can offer a wide range of treatment options, and some are even specific to licensed medical professionals, such as AAC's Greenhouse Treatment Center, River Oaks Treatment Center, and Recover First Treatment Center. American Addiction Centers' licensed medical professional track is designed to treat individuals suffering from substance use disorders. We offer therapeutic groups and individual therapy sessions tailored specifically towards medical professionals, like nurses.

Greenhouse, River Oaks, and Recovery First, provides a full spectrum of addiction treatment options:
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/drug-detox">Medical detox</a>.</li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/inpatient">Inpatient treatment</a>.</li>
 	<li>Residential treatment.</li>
 	<li>Partial hospitalization programs.</li>
 	<li>Intensive outpatient programs.</li>
 	<li>Standard outpatient programs.</li>
</ul>
In California and many other states, there are also various voluntary intervention programs that are confidential and specifically for RNs with substance use and mental health disorders. You can find one of these programs by visiting .

Data from state monitoring programs show that generally half (48%) of nurses who attempt recovery succeed, and some states show success rates as high as 90%.2 In large part due to monitoring and rehabilitation, an estimated 250,000 nurses have returned to work after recovery from substance use disorders in the past 30 years.2

You can overcome addiction, but it takes time, effort, and the support of multiple treatment providers and interventions. Greenhouse Treatment Center can provide the necessary tools and knowledge to help healthcare providers overcome substance use disorders. Call American Addiction Centers or visit our <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">treatment centers</a> hub for more information about our programs.

If you or someone you know is a healthcare provider struggling with a substance use disorder, please reach out for help today—not only for their own health and safety, but for the safety of the public as well.

[vob]
<h2>FAQ on Drug &amp; Alcohol Rehab for Nurses</h2>
[faqs]
<h2>Find Drug &amp; Alcohol Treatment Centers Near You</h2>
<img class=" wp-image-63704 aligncenter" sizes="(max-width: 421px) 100vw, 421px" alt="" width="421" height="307" data-src="https://admin.americanaddictioncenters.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/state-funded-treatment-300x219.png" data-srcset="https://admin.americanaddictioncenters.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/state-funded-treatment-300x219.png 300w, https://admin.americanaddictioncenters.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/state-funded-treatment-768x560.png 768w, https://admin.americanaddictioncenters.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/state-funded-treatment-1024x747.png 1024w, https://admin.americanaddictioncenters.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/state-funded-treatment.png 1190w" />[columns count="2"]
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#California">California</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#florida">Florida</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#nevada">Nevada</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#rhode-island">Rhode Island</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#texas">Texas</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#massachusetts">Massachusetts</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#mississippi">Mississippi</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/treatment-centers#new-jersey">New Jersey</a></li>
</ul>
[/columns]

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 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/addiction-statistics">Addiction Statistics</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/with-a-job">Going to Rehab With a Job</a></li>
</ul>
[/link-bank]

[sources]
<ol class="ol1">
 	<li class="li3"> Foli, K. J., Reddick, B., Zhang, L., &amp; Krcelich, K. (2020). <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1078390319886369" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Substance Use in Registered Nurses: “I Heard About a Nurse Who . . .”</a></li>
 	<li class="li4">National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (2022).<a href="https://www.journalofnursingregulation.com/article/S2155-8256(22)00014-X/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> The Prevalence of Substance Use and Substance Use Problems in Registered Nurses: Estimates From the Nurse Worklife and Wellness Study.</a></li>
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Drug and Alcohol Rehab for Nurses Near You

Adrienne Webster is an Addiction Counselor Licensure Candidate (ACLC) in Bozeman, Montana. After completing her B.A. in Media Arts from Montana State University, she worked for many years as a freelance writer and photographer. Her curiosity about people and their stories and her desire to be a source of compassion and support to others eventually led her back to Montana State University where she completed her graduate studies in Addiction Counseling.  She currently works with clients individually and in group settings while completing her post-graduate, clinical supervision. She is particularly interested in an integrated approach to treatment and recovery that encompasses nutrition education, exercise, and community involvement. Her goal is to help empower people who are trying to regain their health and arm them with the resources and skills they need to be the healthiest version of themselves possible, both mentally and physically.

Adrienne Webster, LAC | American Addiction Centers

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Adrienne Webster, LAC

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