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Families of drug or alcohol abusers go through a lot of painful feelings as they struggle with their loved ones’ addiction. Sometimes these family members are overlooked as help is being offered to the person with the drug or alcohol problem. New initiatives have been formed in recent years that focus on <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/rehab-guide/">substance abuse treatment</a> and family therapy, and it has proven to be a benefit to not only the user, but also to his or her family as well. Support groups have also been organized that help family and friends deal with those with addictions.1
<h2>Support for Spouses of Individuals Struggling With Addiction</h2>
It has been said that <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64258/">alcoholism is a family disease</a>, affecting the entire family.2 Perhaps spouses are the first to notice a problem with addiction, and their lives may change the most. A once-loving spouse and parent to their kids becomes withdrawn, depressed, unreliable, and hard to spend time with. It is very painful to watch someone you love wreck themselves over substances.
<h2>Support for Parents of Individuals Struggling With Addiction</h2>
<a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07347324.2019.1633978?journalCode=watq20">Parents go through much pain also as they watch a child struggle with addiction</a>.3 Feelings of helplessness, failure, and embarrassment are common in these situations, and often parents question where they went wrong and don’t know how to fix it.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15067" src="https://admin.treatmentsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/support-for-families-of-addicts.jpg" alt="family therapy &amp; involvement in substance abuse treatment" width="500" height="334" />
<h2>Support for Children of Individuals Struggling With Addiction</h2>
Children, however, may often suffer the most. To not have the parent around to care for them properly or to spend time with them takes its toll on children. Abuse and neglect commonly go along with parents that do drugs or are alcoholics, and these kids suffer greatly. It is common for these <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3676900/">kids to go on to abuse substances themselves</a> one day.4

In fact, it has been shown that <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/blog/children-of-addicts/">children of parents struggling with addiction</a> are <a href="https://nsuworks.nova.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&amp;context=cps_facarticles/">more than twice as likely to develop a drug and/or alcohol use disorder</a>by young adulthood than their peers.5 Moreover, these children may also be at risk for a variety of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2249558/">additional negative outcomes</a>, such as social, behavioral, and emotional problems, as well as cognitive and educational challenges.6 Considering the debilitating effects of substance abuse on children and their development, it is crucial for treatment facilities to offer appropriate family support to mitigate the associated risks.
<h2>Substance Abuse Treatment and Family Therapy</h2>
Many drug and alcohol treatment facilities also offer <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64260/">help to families and encourage family therapy</a>.7 This offers benefits to family members, and it may improve treatment for the individual struggling with addiction. Often, families can provide support and resources to help the user live without the substance. Sometimes the family is even motivation for an abuser to succeed in treatment, such as a mother who works extra hard to overcome addiction in order to be with her children again.
<h3>Al-Anon</h3>
Because addiction has such a strong effect on the family of an individual struggling with addiction, it is important for families to receive support themselves.<a href="https://al-anon.org/"> Al-Anon and Alateen</a> (for younger family members) offer help and hope to addicts’ families. Al-Anon holds regular meetings throughout the country for family members to share their experiences, learn from other people’s stories, and be encouraged to find their own strength and happiness.
<h2>The Importance of Family Therapy in Substance Abuse</h2>
Family involvement has a crucial role to play in substance abuse treatment and a complex one at that. Family members can be a source of support and help to the addiction treatment process. however, they should also be provided with adequate resources for managing the consequences of their loved one’s addiction. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64269/">Offering support for the entire family can be of immense benefit</a> for the overall effectiveness of treatment.8

For those family members suffering in silence while a loved-one abuses drugs or alcohol, there is help out there for both the user and the family. It is important to encourage the user to get treatment and counseling to overcome the addiction. It is also important for the family to receive treatment in order to move on with their lives. And even if the drug user or alcoholic won’t free themselves from the substance, their family members can and should get help so they aren’t left suffering alone with the problem.

[vob]

[cta-helpline title="Not Sure How to Help a Family Member Struggling With Addiction? Get in Touch Today "]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline]

[faq-custom][accordion title="How Does Addiction Affect the Family?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Substance abuse is associated with a great number of social and family problems which may create a significant burden for the user, their family, and society. Some of the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4158844/">adverse effects of addiction on the user’s family and friends</a> may include:9
<ul>
 	<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
 	<li>Emotional burden on the family, such as anger, anxiety, fear, worry, frustration, guilt, and shame.</li>
 	<li>Economic burden on the family caused by spending money on the substance or money problems related to job loss.</li>
 	<li>Relationship dissatisfaction or distress caused by tension and conflict resulting from substance abuse.</li>
 	<li>Family instability resulting from abuse, violence, or family breakup due to divorce or separation.;</li>
 	<li>Effects on child development caused by substance use during pregnancy (neonatal abstinence syndrome), as well as an increased risk for neglect or abuse, poor emotional regulation, poor impulse control, behavioral issues, impaired academic performance, mental health issues, and the development of substance abuse.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
 	<li>Effects on parents of children struggling with substance abuse may include feelings of guilt, helplessness, anger, frustration, or depression.</li>
</ul>
The effects of substance abuse on the specific family or concerned friends of the user can vary depending on the severity of the disorder. They can also depend on the presence of other issues such as psychiatric illnesses, available support, and the coping mechanisms used by the family and other concerned individuals.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Is the Role of the Family in Substance Abuse Treatment?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Since substance abuse tends to affect the entire family, joint treatment of family members is often required. In fact, family involvement can play an essential role in the diagnosis of substance abuse and follow-up treatment.;Considering that substance abuse may be a response to a variety of fluctuations in the family system,<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16594934/">involving the family in the treatment process can help solve the underlying conflicts</a>that may have given rise to substance abuse. This may help prevent relapse and extend clean time for the individual struggling with substance abuse, as well as provide the necessary treatment and support for all family members affected by it.10</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Is Parental Substance Misuse?"]
<ul>
 	<li>The term “parental substance misuse” is used to refer to <a href="https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/children-and-families-at-risk/parental-substance-misuse#:~:text='Parental%20substance%20misuse'%20is%20the,related%20health%20problems%20or%20accidents)">parents or caregivers who struggle with long-term misuse of alcohol and/or drugs</a>. This may include:11
<ul>
 	<li>Parents who consume excessive amounts of alcohol that lead to accidents and health issues.;</li>
 	<li>Parents who are dependent on using alcohol.;</li>
 	<li>Parents who use drugs excessively and regularly.</li>
 	<li>Parents who are dependent on using drugs.;</li>
 	<li>Parents who are unable to supervise children due to their substance abuse.;</li>
</ul>
Parents and caregivers who struggle with substance abuse often lead unpredictable and chaotic lives. This may render them unable to recognize and meet the needs of their children, which may put the children at risk.;</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Does Substance Abuse Affect Parenting?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Parental substance abuse may cause lifelong issues if the child is not provided with adequate treatment and support, including<a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/therapies/family-therapy-programs/">appropriate family therapy options</a>. <a href="https://ncsacw.samhsa.gov/files/TrainingPackage/MOD2/EffectsofSubstanceAbuse.pdf">Common effects of substance abuse on parenting</a> include the following:12
<ul>
 	<li>A parent may neglect or forget parenting responsibilities because of substance abuse.;</li>
 	<li>A parent may leave their child alone in order to seek, obtain, or use the drug.;</li>
 	<li>A parent may be impatient or angry with their child because of substance abuse and its effects.;</li>
 	<li>A parent may fail to provide for the child’s basic hygienic, medicinal, or nutritional needs.</li>
 	<li>Parents may go out and stay all night due to intoxication, leaving their children alone.</li>
 	<li>If the drug requires preparation, e.g. “cooking”, the child may be at an additional risk of fire, explosions, and unintentional absorption of the drug.</li>
 	<li>A parent struggling with addiction may have depressive episodes or anger outbursts and create an unstable home environment for their children.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Can Parents Help a Child Struggling With Substance Abuse?"]
<ul>
 	<li>A <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/samhsa_families_family_support_guide_final508.pdf">parent or a caregiver of an individual dealing with substance abuse can play a crucial role</a> in getting them the treatment and support they need. Here’s how they can help:13
<ul>
 	<li>Communication: as a parent or caregiver, you may be able to help an addicted individual by expressing your concern, offering support, and creating a loving, judgment-free environment.;</li>
 	<li>Compassion: being patient and expressing a willingness to provide a loved one with the resources they need can be of great help in their recovery process.;</li>
 	<li>Openness: if relevant, discussing family history of substance use and/or mental illness may help the individual struggling with addiction feel less alone.;</li>
 	<li>Education: parents and caregivers can learn how to better support their adult or teenage children struggling with substance abuse by educating themselves on the nature of substance abuse itself and the available forms of therapy and treatment.;</li>
 	<li>Seeking support: family interventions and <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64269/">whole-family involvement in substance abuse treatment have shown great promise in achieving long-term recovery</a> and mitigating the effects of addiction.14</li>
</ul>
Family therapy can help not only the individual struggling with substance abuse, but also the family as a whole. It can help the family make the necessary intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental changes to improve family functioning and help the loved one who is abusing drugs or alcohol.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][/faq-custom]
<h3>Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment</h3>
Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed 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. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.

[self-assessment phone="(877) 640-1943"][/self-assessment]

[cta-helpline-image title="Learn More About Substance Abuse Treatment &amp; Family Therapy"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline-image]

[sources title="Sources"]

1. Ameral, V., Yule, A., McKowen, J., Bergman, B. G., Nargiso, J., &amp; Kelly, J. F. (2020) <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07347324.2019.1633978?journalCode=watq20">A naturalistic evaluation of a group intervention for parents of youth with substance use disorders</a>. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, 38:3, 379-394.

2. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2004). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64265/">Substance abuse treatment and family therapy</a>. Rockville (MD): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

3. Chassin, L., Pitts, S. C., DeLucia, C. (1999). <a href="https://nsuworks.nova.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&amp;context=cps_facarticles/">The relation of adolescent substance use to young adult autonomy, positive activity involvement, and perceived competence</a>. Development and Psychopathology, 11(4), 915-932.

4. Daley D. C. (2013). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4158844/">Family and social aspects of substance use disorders and treatment</a>. Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 21(4), S73–S76.

5. Hussong, A. M., Flora, D. B., Curran, P. J., Chassin, L. A., &amp; Zucker, R. A. (2008). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2249558/">Defining risk heterogeneity for internalizing symptoms among children of alcoholic parents</a>. Development and Psychopathology, 20(1), 165–193.

6. National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. (2020). <a href="https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/children-and-families-at-risk/parental-substance-misuse#:~:text='Parental%20substance%20misuse'%20is%20the,related%20health%20problems%20or%20accidents)">Parental substance misuse</a>.

7. Saatcioglu, O., Erim, R., &amp; Cakmak, D. (2006). <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16594934/">Role of family in alcohol and substance abuse</a>. Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, 60(2), 125–132.

8. Solis, J. M., Shadur, J. M., Burns, A. R., &amp; Hussong, A. M. (2012). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3676900/">Understanding the diverse needs of children whose parents abuse substances</a>. Current Drug Abuse Reviews, 5(2), 135–147.

9. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/samhsa_families_family_support_guide_final508.pdf">SAMHSA families: Family support guide</a>.

10. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. <a href="https://ncsacw.samhsa.gov/files/TrainingPackage/MOD2/EffectsofSubstanceAbuse.pdf">The effects of substance of abuse on behavior and parenting handout</a>.
[/sources]

About Family Involvement in Substance Abuse Treatment

When someone is addicted to drugs or alcohol, many things in their life suffer because of it. Not only can a career and finances go down the drain, but relationships with family can also be affected.

Spouses may feel abandoned and betrayed, but they may be able to get through the pain caused by the addict because they can understand what is happening. Children of individuals struggling with addiction also have the potential to one day start fresh and make a new life for themselves, but they may still carry with them the scars of childhood.

ACoA stands for the adult children of addicts or alcoholics. They often carry troubling feelings from their childhood into adulthood, and they can affect them for the rest of their lives. They may have a hard time building relationships with others, feel fearful of getting too close to anyone, experience self-esteem issues, and may get caught up with drugs or alcohol themselves.

However, ACoA treatment can be helpful in coping with these problems. Recovery from childhood trauma is possible with the commitment to a dependable ACoA treatment plan.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15130" src="https://admin.treatmentsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/children-of-addicts.jpg" alt="acoa treatment plan" width="500" height="334" />
<h2>How a Parent's Drinking Affects a Child</h2>
The child of a drug addict or alcoholic is likely to face many feelings, none of which are healthy in large doses, but that change and impact them differently over time.
<h3>Fear</h3>
Children of addicts are afraid for many reasons. They fear getting beaten or hurt physically or abused sexually by a parent who is too wasted to know or care. These kids are afraid of getting yelled at and screamed at for the smallest offense, or sometimes for no reason at all. They are also afraid that their parent is going to get caught, and their life will get turned even more upside down.
<h3>Confusion</h3>
A child of an addict may have a hard time seeing the big picture of their life. They don’t know what a normal life is like, or that something is really wrong with how they are treated. These kids live in very unstable homes and can’t predict what each day will bring – will they be treated poorly again, or will mom or dad be having a good day? These kids fail to see that their parent is sick and is not behaving as a parent should.
<h3>Regret</h3>
A child will often feel like their family’s problems are their own fault. They think if they would have just been a better kid, their parent wouldn’t have to get upset with them or treat them like they do, and maybe their family would still be together.
<h3>Anger</h3>
As children of addicts get older, they start to get angry about their situation. They may hate their parent for the way their life is, and become withdrawn and upset about the harm the parent has done to them.
<h3>Insecurity</h3>
Starting from a young age and continuing as they get older, these children may suffer from insecurity, feeling as though they are not good enough and don’t deserve better. They may see themselves as worthless, and not someone that anyone should waste time on.
<h3>Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment</h3>
Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed 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. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.

[self-assessment phone="(877) 640-1943"][/self-assessment]

[drug_list]

[cta-helpline title="Are You or a Loved One Looking for Adequate Support?"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline]

[vob]

[faq-custom][accordion title="What Are the Characteristics of a Child of an Alcoholic?"]
<ul>
 	<li>According to the Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization, there are <a href="https://adultchildren.org/literature/laundry-list/">14 traits commonly exhibited by an adult child of an alcoholic</a>:1
<ol>
 	<li>A fear of authority figures</li>
 	<li>Approval seeking and conforming to others</li>
 	<li>A fear of confrontation and criticism</li>
 	<li>Proneness to addictive behaviors and forming relationships with people who exhibit similar tendencies. They <a href="https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-use-disorder/genetics-alcohol-use-disorder">have a higher chance of suffering from alcohol use disorder themselves, due to both genetic and environmental factors</a>.2</li>
 	<li>Perceiving oneself as a victim and forming relationships that put one in this role</li>
 	<li>A keen sense of responsibility toward other people and always putting others’ needs before one’s own. Alternatively, they <a href="https://books.google.rs/books/about/Adult_Children_of_Alcoholics.html?id=S4qjAgAAQBAJ&amp;redir_esc=y">may be extremely irresponsible</a>.3</li>
 	<li>Blaming oneself when they’re assertive and stand their ground</li>
 	<li>Thrill-seeking or <a href="https://books.google.rs/books/about/Adult_Children_of_Alcoholics.html?id=S4qjAgAAQBAJ&amp;redir_esc=y">difficulty having fun</a>3</li>
 	<li>Choosing romantic partners who one feels sorry for and who they wish to rescue</li>
 	<li>Denying and burying the distressing memories from one’s childhood</li>
 	<li>Low self-worth, a tendency to be hard on oneself, and <a href="https://books.google.rs/books/about/Adult_Children_of_Alcoholics.html?id=S4qjAgAAQBAJ&amp;redir_esc=y">judging oneself without mercy</a>3</li>
 	<li>Codependency and a fear of abandonment</li>
 	<li>Becoming para-alcoholic by taking on emotional aspects of alcoholism although they don’t drink</li>
</ol>
Reacting instead of acting as well as <a href="https://books.google.rs/books/about/Adult_Children_of_Alcoholics.html?id=S4qjAgAAQBAJ&amp;redir_esc=y">overreacting to events they have no control over</a>3</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Do You Overcome ACoA Experiences?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Growing up with an alcoholic parent can have far-reaching consequences. However, adult children can deal with these adverse effects with a professionally devised ACoA treatment plan. According to the National Association for Children of Addiction, adult children may <a href="https://nacoa.org/families/adult-children-of-alcoholics/">benefit from following these four steps</a> when handled alongside an experienced professional in a safe setting:4
<ul>
 	<li>Explore past history: The goal is to identify and acknowledge hurtful past situations without placing blame. It is about being honest about the pain that was inflicted upon the person. To break their ties with the past, one may need to overcome denial and see their experiences for what they are.</li>
 	<li>Connect the past to the present: The next step involves recognizing how past experiences influence the person now in various spheres of life. Uncovering this link between the past and the present steers ACoA in the direction of recovery. It gives them clear ideas of what they should work on.</li>
 	<li>Challenge internalized beliefs: Negative past experiences lead to forming certain negative beliefs about oneself and the world. After ACoA have pinpointed these detrimental beliefs, they can start overcoming them and adopting new, more helpful ones.</li>
 	<li>Learn new skills: An adult child often learns behaviors and forms beliefs on the foundation of fear, anger, or confusion caused by growing up in a dysfunctional family. They can learn new coping mechanisms and adopt new behaviors that will be more beneficial to them.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Is an ACA Group?"]
<ul>
 	<li>ACA, short for <a href="https://adultchildren.org/">Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional Families</a>, is a Twelve Step, Twelve Tradition program for people who grew up in dysfunctional homes.5 ACA is an international organization with a large network of members and group meetings taking place around the world. This makes it easy to find a meeting in a number of different locations. Anyone who is interested in joining an ACA meeting can use the practical <a href="https://adultchildren.org/meeting-search/">Meeting Search tool</a> to find one in their area.6</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Is the Difference Between ACA and Al-Anon?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Both of these groups provide support for families of people who struggle with substance abuse. However, ACA is aimed specifically at adult children of addicts, alcoholics, or otherwise dysfunctional families, while Al-Anon works with any family member of people dealing with alcohol abuse.7</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Is an ACA Group?"]
<ul>
 	<li>ACA, short for <a href="https://adultchildren.org/">Adult Children of Alcoholics/Dysfunctional Families</a>, is a Twelve Step, Twelve Tradition program for people who grew up in dysfunctional homes.5 ACA is an international organization with a large network of members and group meetings taking place around the world. This makes it easy to find a meeting in a number of different locations. Anyone who is interested in joining an ACA meeting can use the practical <a href="https://adultchildren.org/meeting-search/">Meeting Search tool</a> to find one in their area.6</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Is an ACA Meeting?"]
<ul>
 	<li>ACA meetings are therapeutic group sessions where adult children come together to <a href="https://adultchildren.org/">share their experiences in a safe, non-judgmental environment</a> and overcome the obstacles imposed on them by childhood trauma.5In general, meetings take place i<a href="https://westgreatlakesaca.org/faqs/">n groups of between 6 and 20 regulars</a> and anyone who had alcoholism or another type of dysfunction in their family is welcome to join at any time.8 Everyone can determine whether they could benefit from ACA meetings by going over the <a href="https://adultchildren.org/newcomer/am-i-an-adult-child/">Am I an Adult Child questionnaire</a>.9</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Are ACoA 12 Steps?"]
<ul>
 	<li>The Twelve Steps of ACoA treatment plans and recovery are based on those used by Alcoholics Anonymous with slight adaptations to reflect the fact that they are meant for adult children of alcoholics. <a href="https://adultchildren.org/literature/steps/">The steps are</a>:10
<ol>
 	<li>We admitted we were powerless over the effects of alcoholism or other family dysfunction, that our lives had become unmanageable.</li>
 	<li>Came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.</li>
 	<li>Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understand God.</li>
 	<li>Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.</li>
 	<li>Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.</li>
 	<li>Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.</li>
 	<li>Humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings.</li>
 	<li>Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.</li>
 	<li>Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.</li>
 	<li>Continued to take personal inventory and, when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.</li>
 	<li>Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, as we understand God, praying only for knowledge of God’s will for us and the power to carry that out.</li>
 	<li>Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others who still suffer, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="Overcoming childhood trauma is possible"]
<ul>
 	<li>Dealing with ongoing consequences of a dysfunctional nuclear family is a reality for many people. Although the healing process is always a challenging experience, it may help one finally break away from unresolved trauma and undergo positive change.ACoA treatment helps adult children learn how to achieve well-being and <a href="https://adultchildren.org/literature/solution/">recovery through becoming their own loving, supportive parent</a>.11 For anyone who is struggling with the impact of painful childhood experiences, learning to re-parent oneself with care and kindness can be the most powerful act of self-love.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][/faq-custom]

&nbsp;

[cta-helpline-image title="Find Specialized Support &amp; Start Your Recovery Process."]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline-image]

&nbsp;

[sources title="Sources"]

1. Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization. <a href="https://adultchildren.org/literature/laundry-list/">Laundry List</a>.

2. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. <a href="https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-use-disorder/genetics-alcohol-use-disorder">Genetics of Alcohol Use Disorder</a>.

3. Woititz, Janet. G. (1990). <a href="https://books.google.rs/books/about/Adult_Children_of_Alcoholics.html?id=S4qjAgAAQBAJ&amp;redir_esc=y">Adult Children of Alcoholics: Expanded Edition</a>. Deerfield, Florida: Health Communications, Inc.

4. National Association for Children of Addiction. <a href="https://nacoa.org/families/adult-children-of-alcoholics/">Adult Children of Alcoholics</a>.

5. Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization. <a href="https://adultchildren.org/">Home Page</a>.

6. Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization. <a href="https://adultchildren.org/meeting-search/">Meeting Search</a>.

7. Al-Anon Family Groups. <a href="https://al-anon.org/">Home page</a>.

8. Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families. <a href="https://westgreatlakesaca.org/faqs/">Frequently Asked Questions</a>.

9. Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization. <a href="https://adultchildren.org/newcomer/am-i-an-adult-child/">Am I an Adult Child</a>.

10. Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization. <a href="https://adultchildren.org/literature/steps/">Steps</a>.

11. Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization. <a href="https://adultchildren.org/literature/solution/">Solution</a>.
[/sources]

A Guide to ACoA Issues and Treatment Plan

Although the number of heroin users in the general population is lower compared to other drugs, heroin abuse is more deadly.1 After the spread of the opioid epidemic in the U.S., the number of new heroin users started to decrease in 2017, but the number of heroin-related deaths has continued to increase, with heroin claiming over 15,000 lives per year.2 Moreover, the percentage of people who seek treatment for heroin use is higher than for any other illicit drug, except marijuana.1

Due to its highly addictive nature and severe effects that this drug has on people’s health and lives, it is of vital importance that people who are struggling with heroin addiction enter heroin drug treatment that can help them detox and prevent relapse.
<h2>What Is Heroin?</h2>
Heroin is an illicit, highly addictive opioid drug made from morphine, which is a natural substance obtained from opium poppy plants.

Heroin usually appears as a white or brown powder that can be injected, smoked, or sniffed/snorted. Injecting the drug is the most effective way to get high from low-purity heroin, but injecting heroin also carries serious health risks. The sharing of needles leads to the spread of both HIV/AIDS and hepatitis in heroin users.

The threat from infectious diseases spread through needles has led some heroin users to snort a higher-purity form, but snorting the drug does not prevent the possibility of a fatal overdose. <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin">The National Institute on Drug Abuse</a> researchers have confirmed that all forms of heroin are addictive.3

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15330" src="https://admin.treatmentsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/opioids-heroin.jpg" alt="when do heroin addicts typically enter treatment?" width="500" height="282" />
<h2>What Are Heroin’s Short-Term Effects?</h2>
Heroin rapidly binds to opioid receptors of the nervous system and heroin users experience the feeling of euphoria (also known as the “rush”) soon after a single dose, with the feeling disappearing a few hours later. After the rush, heroin users can experience the following short-term effects:3
<ul>
 	<li>Warm flushing of the skin</li>
 	<li>Dry mouth</li>
 	<li>Heavy arms and legs</li>
 	<li>Nausea and vomiting</li>
 	<li>Itching</li>
 	<li>Drowsiness</li>
 	<li>Slow breathing</li>
 	<li>Clouded mental functioning</li>
 	<li>Back-and-forth state of being conscious and semiconscious referred to as going "on the nod"</li>
</ul>
<h2>What Are Heroin’s Long-Term Effects?</h2>
Long-term, continued heroin addiction has serious health consequences. These include:3
<ul>
 	<li>Insomnia.</li>
 	<li>Vein damage in users who inject heroin.</li>
 	<li>Nose tissue damage for people who sniff or snort heroin.</li>
 	<li>Heart, liver, and kidney damage.</li>
 	<li>Abscesses.</li>
 	<li>Constipation and stomach cramping.</li>
 	<li>Pulmonary complications, including pneumonia.</li>
 	<li>Mental disorders.</li>
 	<li>Reproductive system issues in both men and women.</li>
</ul>
Heroin users quickly develop tolerance, which means that a person needs to take a larger amount of drug to achieve the same effects. After the drug is used for a certain period of time, the body adapts to the presence of the drug. This means that if the person does not take the drug, they experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.3

When a person develops heroin use disorder, their behavior is characterized by continual drug-seeking that they cannot control. This can put them in risky and potentially life-threatening situations, which is another reason why getting treatment for heroin as soon as possible is so important.
<h2>What Does Heroin Withdrawal Look Like?</h2>
A key reason many heroin users fail in their attempts to quit is that the drug carries serious withdrawal symptoms so unpleasant that many users return to heroin just to make the feelings of sickness go away. Heroin withdrawal symptoms include:4
<ul>
 	<li>Nausea and vomiting.</li>
 	<li>Diarrhea.</li>
 	<li>Anxiety.</li>
 	<li>Insomnia.</li>
 	<li>Cold flashes and goosebumps.</li>
 	<li>Muscle cramps.</li>
 	<li>Watery eyes and nose.</li>
</ul>
These withdrawal symptoms can begin as early as a few hours after the last dose of heroin, and symptoms usually peak between 48 and 72 hours after the last dose. Symptoms often completely subside after about one week.4 Since these symptoms can be quite severe, heroin addiction treatment programs may include medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help patients detox safely.

[vob type="in-content"]
<h2>Heroin Overdose</h2>
Heroin overdose is a condition in which the drug slows down the heart rate and breathing in such a way that the drug user cannot survive unless they get immediate medical help. The drug that is used to reverse this condition is called Naloxone. This medicine works by rapidly binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effect of the opioid drug.3

Naloxone is a medicine that can treat an opioid overdose when given right away. It works by rapidly binding to opioid receptors and blocking the effects of heroin and other opioid drugs. Sometimes more than one dose may be needed to help a person start breathing again, which is why it’s important to get the person to an emergency department or a doctor to receive additional support if needed. Read more in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Opioid Overdose Prevention Toolkit.

Overdose sometimes happens because heroin is often “cut” with other substances such as sugar, starch, powdered milk, or quinine. If a user does not know how much actual heroin is being used, this increases the likelihood of overdose. In addition, using heroin along with drugs or alcohol also increases the risk of overdose.3
<h2>Heroin and Other Drugs</h2>
Heroin is often used in combination with other drugs and alcohol. <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/heroin/statistics/">According to the heroin-related statistics</a> of the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/heroin/">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>, over 9 out of 10 heroin users use at least one other drug.5

A factor that may lead to heroin abuse is <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/">the misuse of prescription opioids</a>. Opioid painkillers such as OxyCotin and Vicodin have similar effects to heroin and some people tend to switch to heroin as a cheaper and more easily obtainable alternative.3

[accordion title="Learn more about different types of opioids"]
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/codeine/">Codeine</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/darvocet/">Darvocet</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/demerol/">Demerol</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/dilaudid/">Dilaudid</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/morphine/">Morphine</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/heroin/">Heroin</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/lortab/">Lortab</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/oxycontin/">Oxycodone</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/hydrocodone/">Hydrocodone</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/percocet/">Percocet</a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/percodan/">Percodan</a></li>
</ul>
[/accordion]
<h2>How Does Heroin Addiction Treatment Work?</h2>
Treatment for heroin addiction usually involves medication and behavioral therapy.

<a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/heroin/medication-assisted-treatment/">The medications used in heroin addiction treatment</a> may include lofexidine, buprenorphine, and methadone. The purpose of medicines is to reduce the need for heroin and help overcome withdrawal symptoms.

Medically-assisted <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/heroin/detox/">detox should be seen as the first stage in heroin addiction treatment</a> and it is hardly sufficient without behavioral counseling. In addition to medical stabilization, <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin">behavioral therapy is an important element of heroin addiction treatment</a>. It has the potential to help the person change patterns of thinking and behavior that have resulted in heroin addiction.3 The approaches that have been reported to be effective in heroin drug treatment are contingency management and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Working on the causes of addiction and developing healthy habits prevents a former heroin user from turning to alcoholism or some other form of drug abuse.3
<h2>Additional Heroin Treatment Considerations</h2>
In some cases, a person may have some other psychological issues such as depression and anxiety. These co-occurring disorders are often connected to drug abuse and they should also be addressed in treatment for heroin addiction.

Furthermore, as heroin abuse puts people at high risk of infectious diseases, heroin drug treatment programs should test patients for the presence of HIV, hepatitis B and C, and other infections, as well as link them to treatment for these conditions if needed.6
<h3>Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment</h3>
Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed 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. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.

[self-assessment phone="(877) 640-1943"][/self-assessment]

[cta-helpline-image title="Do You Need More Information About Heroin Treatment Options?"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline-image]

&nbsp;

[faq-custom][accordion title="How Widespread Is Heroin Use Disorder?"]
<ul>
 	<li>According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the number of people who have used heroin in the US has been on the rise since 2007. In 2016, 948,000 people reported using heroin during the past year. Heroin users are more common among adults aged 18-25, while the number of heroin users among teens aged 12-17 has declined.7</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Are the Signs of Heroin Use?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Some of the signs that can indicate that a person is a heroin user are the following:8
<ul>
 	<li>Small eye pupils</li>
 	<li>Needle marks on the skin</li>
 	<li>Unusual sleeping schedule</li>
</ul>
As heroin starts to wear off, the user may also show the following symptoms:9
<ul>
 	<li>Insomnia</li>
 	<li>Muscle and bone pain</li>
 	<li>Feelings of nervousness</li>
 	<li>Itchiness across the skin</li>
 	<li>Vomiting and getting chills</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Are Treatment Options for Heroin?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Since not everyone has the same treatment needs, treatment plans will vary for individual patients. There are several heroin treatment options: some patients benefit from inpatient programs, while others may opt for outpatient services in order to be able to carry on with their activities during treatment.There are programs that place emphasis on spirituality and religion, and there are also those that pay special attention to gender-related issues. There are also treatment options designed for particularly vulnerable groups such as teens and pregnant women. Sessions are done in groups or individually, and in some situations, family therapy is also an important element of treatment.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Long Does Heroin Treatment Last?"]
<ul>
 	<li>The length of heroin addiction treatment is not the same for everyone because people progress through treatment at various rates.9 However, positive treatment outcomes correlate with longer treatment, so it is <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/principles-effective-treatment">recommended</a> that the treatment program lasts for at least three months.10</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="Is Heroin Addiction Treatment Possible During Pregnancy?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Yes. It is generally recommended that <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/opioids/basics.html#:~:text=As%20an%20example%2C%20for%20mothers,see%20below)3%2C4">pregnant heroin users should seek professional help since using heroin</a>, trying to quit heroin use, and experiencing withdrawal during pregnancy can harm the mother and the baby. Using heroin during pregnancy may result in poor fetal growth, birth defects, preterm labor, stillbirth, and maternal death. Babies can also become dependent on the substance during pregnancy and experience withdrawal after birth.11</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="When Should Heroin Users Seek Help?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Heroin users are <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/download/675/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition.pdf?v=74dad603627bab89b93193918330c223">encouraged to enter treatment when</a> the first signs of opioid addiction are noticed. Unfortunately, the gap among those who need substance abuse treatment and those that receive it is quite significant. In fact, only 2.3 million of individuals seeking treatment received it, out of 21.6 million persons who needed it in 2011. Because of this, it is important that individuals and their families be aware of the available heroin treatment options and encouraged to seek treatment before serious problems develop.10</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What to Look for in Treatment for Heroin?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Since every person has unique treatment needs, they should always consult a professional to find the optimal treatment option that suits their individual case.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][/faq-custom]
[accordion title="Payment Options For the Addiction Treatment"]

<ul class="ul1">
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/">Treatment Types</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/paying-for-treatment/">Payment Options</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/aetna-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Aetna</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/anthem-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Anthem</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/bluecross-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Blue Cross Blue Shield</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/unitedhealth-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by United Health Insurance</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/cigna-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Cigna</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/kaiser-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Kaiser</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/humana-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Humana</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/tricare-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Tricare</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/molina-healthcare-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Molina</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/">Other Insurance Providers</a></li>
</ul>
[/accordion]
[sources title="Sources"]

1. United States Drug Enforcement Administration. (2015). <a href="https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2018-07/hq052215_National_Heroin_Threat_Assessment_Summary.pdf">National Heroin Threat Assessment Summary</a>.

2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. (2017). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/nsduh-ppt-09-2018.pdf">The National Survey on Drug Use and Health: 2017.</a>

3. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin">Heroin DrugFacts</a>.

4. World Health Organization. (2020).<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/#_NBK310652_pubdet_">Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings.</a>

5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/heroin/">Today’s Heroin Epidemic</a>.

6. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/download/675/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition.pdf?v=74dad603627bab89b93193918330c223">Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)</a>.

7. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/heroin/scope-heroin-use-in-united-states">What is the scope of heroin use in the United States?</a>

8. National Institute on Drug Abuse. <a href="https://easyread.drugabuse.gov/content/signs-heroin-use">Signs of Heroin Use</a>.

9. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/how-long-does-drug-addiction-treatment-usually-last">How long does drug addiction treatment usually last?</a>

10. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/principles-effective-treatment">Principles of Effective Treatment</a>.

11. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/opioids/basics.html#:~:text=As%20an%20example%2C%20for%20mothers,see%20below)3%2C4">About Opioid Use During Pregnancy</a>.

[/sources]

Heroin Abuse & Addiction

OxyContin Abuse & Addiction

Abuse of pain relievers is a major public health concern in the U.S. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health from 2017, around 11.1 million people in the US abused prescription drugs in the past year. Out of this number, it is estimated that 3.7 million people misused oxycodone products, which is the category that includes the pain reliever Percocet. Out of the 19.7 million people who develop substance use disorders, 1.7 million people suffer from a disorder that includes a prescription pain reliever.1 Individuals struggling with addiction or have a loved one who is, should consider seeking specialized Percocet treatment options.
<h2>What Is Percocet and What Does It Do?</h2>
Percocet is the brand name of a prescription pain reliever used to treat moderate to severe acute (or short-term) pain.2 It is manufactured by Endo Pharmaceuticals and it was officially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1976.3

The active ingredients of Percocet are:2
<ul>
 	<li>Oxycodone, a semisynthetic opioid agonist whose main effect is analgesia. In addition to reducing pain, it decreases anxiety, relaxes the user, and may cause euphoria.</li>
 	<li>Acetaminophen, a non-opiate substance that reduces pain and fever.</li>
</ul>
The drug is also referred to by the nickname “Percs.”4

Percocet is classified as a Schedule II drug, which means that it has high potential for abuse and physical and psychological dependence.5 Due to the fact that <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/">oxycodone, one of the components of Percocet, is a morphine-like opioid,</a> this medication is attractive to drug abusers and people suffering from AUDs.2 Percocet abuse can lead to overdose and require immediate Percocet overdose treatment and assistance.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15538" src="https://admin.treatmentsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/opioids-percocet.jpg" alt="percocet headache treatment" width="500" height="334" />
<h2>How Is Percocet Used?</h2>
Percocet is intended for oral use. However, when diverted, it may also be crushed and then snorted, or crushed and dissolved in water and injected like heroin.6

Percocet pills are available in six combinations of oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen, with different appearances (yellow, blue, or pink tables for example) with oxycodone strength ranging from 2.5 mg to 10 mg.2

It is prescribed when pain is severe enough to require an opioid analgesic, in cases when alternative non-opioid treatment options are inadequate.7 They are commonly used to treat migraines. Over 50% of emergency department migraine visits are treated with opioid medication. However, Percocet headache treatment carries a risk of medication overuse headache, as it happens when opioid drugs are used more than ten times per month. If the person uses opioid drugs frequently, they can become dependent.8
<h2>What Are the Signs of Percocet Overdose?</h2>
Percocet overdose happens when someone intentionally or accidentally takes too much medicine. The patient may accidentally take too much of the medicine if they do not feel that they are getting satisfactory pain relief from the normal dose. This can happen with patients undergoing Percocet headache treatment. On the other hand, the person may intentionally take too much of the medicine in order to get high or hurt themselves.9

The symptoms of Percocet overdose are:10
<ul>
 	<li>Slow heartbeat.</li>
 	<li>Slow or shallow breathing.</li>
 	<li>Coma.</li>
 	<li>Nausea and vomiting.</li>
 	<li>Loss of appetite.</li>
 	<li>Increased perspiration.</li>
 	<li>Abdominal/stomach pain.</li>
 	<li>Tiredness.</li>
 	<li>Dark urine.</li>
 	<li>Yellowing eyes/skin.</li>
</ul>
Although symptoms such as nausea or sweating may appear earlier, it is not possible to obtain clinical and laboratory evidence of liver toxicity before 48 to 72 hours after drug ingestion.2

Severe overdose may cause stopped breathing and cardiac arrest, as a result of which the person can die. Another directly life-threatening effect of Percocet overdose can be liver damage (hepatonecrosis). These fatal outcomes are rarely reported with doses of less than 15 grams, but even if not immediately life-threatening, overdose effects are dangerous and require Percocet overdose treatment.2
<h2>How Does Percocet Overdose Treatment Work?</h2>
In cases of life-threatening overdose, the FDA-approved medication naloxone is used for reversing the severe effects of opioid overdose. It is an opioid antagonist used against respiratory depression that occurs when too much oxycodone is present in the body.2

Percocet overdose treatment may involve supportive measures in order to reestablish normal breathing and circulation. These include cardiac massage, defibrillation, assisted or controlled ventilation, oxygen, intravenous fluids, and vasopressors.2

To remove the unabsorbed drug from the body, stomach pumping is used even when the patient has already vomited spontaneously. Activated charcoal is also used for this purpose, but never prior to stomach pumping.2

[vob type="in-content"]
<h2>Percocet Dependence</h2>
Physical dependence on Percocet means that the person’s body adapts to the presence of the drug after regular use and experiences withdrawal symptoms when suddenly reducing or ceasing to use the drug. Clinically significant dependence can be detected after several weeks of high dosage therapy.2

The factors that have an impact on the severity of withdrawal symptoms are:2
<ul>
 	<li>Daily dosage of the opioid.</li>
 	<li>Duration of therapy.</li>
 	<li>Medical status of the individual.</li>
</ul>
The symptoms of withdrawal are:2
<ul>
 	<li>Anxiety and restlessness.</li>
 	<li>Nervousness and irritability.</li>
 	<li>Insomnia.</li>
 	<li>Yawning.</li>
 	<li>Increased heart rate and blood pressure.</li>
 	<li>Muscle aches.</li>
 	<li>Tremor and goosebumps.</li>
 	<li>Sneezing, rhinorrhea, lacrimation.</li>
 	<li>Excessive sweating.</li>
 	<li>Abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.</li>
</ul>
If a person is addicted to Percocet, they seek ways to illegitimately obtain drugs. In the case of prescription medication, examples of such drug-seeking behavior involve tampering with medical records or avoiding testing and examination.2
<h2>Treatment for Percocet Addiction</h2>
Since Percocet contains an opioid agonist, Percocet addiction is treated as other opioid addictions. <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/medication-assisted-treatment/">The standard approach to treating opioid use disorders is medication-assisted treatment</a>, which involves combining medications and behavioral therapy to help the patient recover from addiction both physically and psychologically. This approach has been shown to have <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/addiction-treatment-success-rate/">the highest success rates in opioid abuse treatment</a>.11

In addition to standard FDA-approved medications used in addiction treatment, there are also some <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/opioids/withdrawal-otc-medication">over-the-counter medicines that are helpful in overcoming unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as nausea or pain.</a>12

&nbsp;

[cta-helpline title="Do You Need Help Fighting Percocet Addiction?"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline]

&nbsp;

[faq-custom][accordion title="How Often Can I Take Percocet?"]
<ul>
 	<li>The usual daily dosage of Percocet is one or two tablets every six hours, depending on the strength of the medication. For example, for Percocet 2.5 mg/325 mg, the maximum daily dosage is 12 tablets, while for Percocet 10 mg/650 mg it is 6 tablets.2</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Long Does Percocet Stay in the System?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Although the drug can remain in the body longer than its effects may last, blood concentrations of oxycodone are practically nonexistent after 24 hours. It is possible to trace it in urine samples a bit longer, between two and four days following the last use. Hair tests are the most sensitive ones and can identify oxycodone even several weeks after the person has stopped using the drug. Of course, this all depends on the dosage and individual metabolism.13</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What to Do in Case of Percocet Overdose?"]
<ul>
 	<li>In cases of severe intoxication, it is necessary to call an emergency to receive specialized Percocet overdose treatment. Help is also provided by local poison centers which can be reached by calling the toll-free helpline (1-800-222-1222). In situations when naloxone is available, it should be applied immediately, to reverse the dangerous effects of overdose.14</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How to Wean Off Percocet?"]
<ul>
 	<li>If the person needs to be weaned off Percocet, this process should be carried out gradually. The rapid discontinuation may cause severe withdrawal symptoms and the person may resort to other drugs. It is advisable that the tapering schedule is agreed to by the patient and that mental health support services are provided in addition to medical supervision.7</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Long Does Percocet Withdrawal Last?"]
<ul>
 	<li>When a person is dependent on oxycodone (the opioid component of Percocet), withdrawal begins 8-12 hours after the last drug use. The symptoms peak in the period 36-72 and most of them subside in 7-10 days.12 Percocet withdrawal treatment provided by certified addiction treatment facilities may help the patient go through this challenging period and not resume using the drug.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Are the Risks of Percocet Use During Pregnancy?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Pregnant women should avoid the use of Percocet, as the drug could cause narcotic withdrawal symptoms in the infant after delivery. Percocet is classified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a Category C medication, which means it should only be given to pregnant women if the healthcare provider believes that the benefits to the woman outweigh any possible risks to the unborn child.2</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][/faq-custom]
<h3>Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment</h3>
“Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed 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. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.”

[self-assessment phone="(877) 640-1943"][/self-assessment]

[cta-helpline-image title="Are You Looking For an Effective Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment?"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline-image]

&nbsp;

[sources title="Sources"]

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. (2018). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/cbhsq-reports/NSDUHFFR2017/NSDUHFFR2017.pdf">Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health</a>.

2. Endo Pharmaceuticals. <a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2006/040330s015,040341s013,040434s003lbl.pdf">Oxycodone and acetaminophen tablets</a>.

3. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Health and Medicine Division; Board on Health Sciences Policy; Committee on Pain Management and Regulatory Strategies to Address. (2017). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK458660/?report=reader">Pain Management and the Opioid Epidemic.</a>

4. National Institutes of Health. (2018). <a href="https://www.nihlibrary.nih.gov/resources/subject-guides/opioids/street-commercial-names">Street &amp; Commercial Names</a>.

5. United States Drug Enforcement Administration. <a href="https://www.dea.gov/drug-scheduling">Drug Scheduling</a>.

6. Food and Drug Administration. (2017). <a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/106279/download">Oxycodone Extended-Release Tablets.</a>

7. DailyMed (2020). <a href="https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=4dd36cf5-8f73-404a-8b1d-3bd53bd90c25">PERCOCET- oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen tablet</a>.

8. American Headache Society. <a href="https://americanheadachesociety.org/news/opioids-migraine/">Opioids and Migraine</a>.

9. Medline Plus. <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007285.htm">Hydrocodone/oxycodone overdose</a>.

10. WebMD. <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7277/percocet-oral/details">Percocet Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings &amp; Dosing</a>.

11. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. (2021). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment">Medication-Assisted Treatment</a>.

12. Providers’ Clinical Support System. <a href="http://pcssnow.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PCSS-MAT-Opioid-Detox-Overdose-Sullivan-new-date.pdf">Management of Opioid Treatment and Overdoses</a>.

13. Medical News Today. (2020). <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-long-does-oxycodone-stay-in-the-system#how-long-does-it-stay-in-the-system">How long does oxycodone stay in the system?</a>

14. Medline Plus. (2019). <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007285.htm">Hydrocodone/oxycodone overdose</a>.

[/sources]

Percocet Addiction & Overdose Treatment

Prescription Drug Abuse Addiction and Treatment Options

An intervention is a method that families and loved ones can use to try and help a person struggling with problematic substance abuse. The primary purpose of interventions is to encourage the individual to enter into a treatment program and start the path to recovery. Loved ones can often struggle to communicate with those who struggle with substance abuse and this is where interventions can be particularly helpful.
<h2>What Is an Intervention?</h2>
An intervention is a structured, well-planned, and focused meeting between an 'intervention team' and an individual struggling with substance abuse. An intervention team may be made up of family members, friends, neighbors, teammates, clergy members, coworkers, classmates, or whoever else is impacted by the individual’s substance abuse, and the person needing help. Interventions should only be led by trained and qualified professionals in order to promote recovery.
<h2>The Importance of Interventions</h2>
Over 20 million Americans battle addiction; however, the American Society for Addiction Medicine (ASAM) publishes that only one out of every 10 people who need help for drug and/or alcohol abuse receive it.1 Addiction is an all-encompassing disease that negatively impacts not only the individual struggling with it, but also their families, loved ones, coworkers, teammates, and anyone else in a person’s social circle.

The cost to society for substance abuse is staggering, as the <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/drug-addiction-treatment-worth-its-cost">National Institute on Drug Abuse</a> (NIDA) estimates expenses of around $600 billion each year in crime, healthcare, and lost workplace production.2 Substance abuse treatment programs can greatly lower both the personal and societal cost of addiction, but individuals battling the disease may be resistant to enter into a treatment program. In many cases, interventions organized by professionals and the families of the struggling individual can greatly increase their chances of entering treatment.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15102" src="https://admin.treatmentsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/interventions.jpg" alt="intervention america drug treatment service" width="500" height="334" />
<h2>Types of Intervention Models for Treatment &amp; Recovery</h2>
There are several different types of intervention models, all of which strive to help a person realize how their drug and alcohol use affects those around them and recognize that a problem exists. The most common models for a substance abuse intervention are outlined below:
<h3>The Johnson Model</h3>
The Johnson Model is likely the most typical form of intervention for substance abuse, as it is a traditional and confrontational method. The<a href="https://www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/caregivers/practice-settings/intervention/johnson-intervention.aspx"> American Psychological Association</a> (APA) publishes that the Johnson Model typically involves a person’s primary caregiver initially. This person will then form the intervention team out of the individual’s social network, along with a professional interventionist.3

They will then host several meetings, planning the intervention with professionals without the knowledge of the person in question. The actual intervention is carried out by the intervention team with a specific plan in place, goals for treatment solutions, and consequences if the loved one refuses to get professional help.
<h3>ARISE Intervention</h3>
The<a href="http://www.arise-network.com/overview/"> ARISE</a> method for interventions is an alternative to traditional confrontational methods and involves the person struggling with addiction right from the beginning. There are no secrets with this model, and the interventionist, support network, caregiver, and individual in need all work collaboratively to get help.4
<h3>ARISE Model Levels</h3>
An ARISE model, as explained by the<a href="http://www.associationofinterventionspecialists.org/what-is-arise-intervention/"> Association of Intervention Specialists</a> (AIS), has progressive levels from one to three.5
<ol>
 	<li>Level 1 is the initial phone call by a concerned loved one to a certified ARISE interventionist who helps set up a planned meeting between the support group and the person requiring help.</li>
 	<li>Level 2 involves the entire intervention team working together through 2-5 sessions to motivate the individual to enter into a treatment service program.</li>
 	<li>Level 3 is the formal intervention. The ARISE intervention method is respectful, gentle, and offers a full continuum of care.</li>
</ol>
<h3>Family Systemic Intervention</h3>
The Family Systemic Intervention Model also includes the whole family and the person battling drug and/or alcohol abuse right from the start. AIS publishes that this method includes several meetings, where individuals and family members talk about how addiction has impacted them personally in an attempt to motivate change.

The goal of a Family Systemic Intervention is to get the entire family into some form of counseling and the person battling addiction into a formal rehab program. With this model, families all go to therapy together to improve the family unit as a whole. The Family Systemic Intervention Model involves several meetings, and it can be a longer and more drawn-out process.

[vob type=''in-content'']
<h2>Staging an Intervention &amp; Seeking Drug Treatment Service</h2>
Regardless of which type of intervention families and loved ones decide to use, it is essential to enlist the help of a professional interventionist to carry out a formal intervention. The<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK424859/"> National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence</a> (NCADD) reports on studies showing that an intervention, when carried out with the help of a professional interventionist, is successful in getting people into treatment programs around 90% of the time.6

Families are advised to always consult a professional when planning an intervention, but especially when:
<ul>
 	<li>Their loved one has a history of violence, aggression, or self-harm.</li>
 	<li>There is polysubstance abuse.</li>
 	<li>There is a history of mental illness or mental health concerns.</li>
</ul>
A professional interventionist is trained to guide families and loved ones through the entire process, offering support and guidance along the way. It is important to note that families should never try and organize interventions on their own, but rely on experienced professionals who can make sure that the entire process goes safely and smoothly.

An intervention will provide specific details and examples of<a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/when-a-loved-one-has-an-addiction"> how drug and/or alcohol abuse has negatively affected each member of the intervention team</a>, include prearranged treatment options, and dictate specific consequences that will occur if the person refuses to enter into treatment.7The intervention is designed to help a person become motivated on their own to seek treatment. They need to agree that treatment is the right thing to do, and the goal of the intervention is to help them see that substance abuse and addiction hurt the people close to them.

[cta-helpline-image title="Find More Help and Information Before Staging an Intervention"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline-image]

[faq-custom][accordion title="What is the Role of an Interventionist?"]
<ul>
 	<li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3978031/">An interventionist is a valuable person who provides assistance</a> for the user, especially the one that might be reluctant to address their substance abuse problems. Professional interventionists play many roles in the treatment of the individual. They need to:8
<ul>
 	<li>Identify the user’s family members in order to form a recovery team.</li>
 	<li>Provide support for the user and their family.</li>
 	<li>Educate the user and a recovery team.</li>
 	<li>Provide guidance, direction, and training.</li>
 	<li>Facilitate the intervention and aftercare.</li>
</ul>
It is essential for families and loved ones to refrain from organizing any kind of intervention without the help of a professional. If you wish to maximize the chances of your loved one entering treatment, it is crucial that you receive the right kind of guidance, advice, and support, which can only come from a qualified professional.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Makes an Effective Intervention?"]
<ul>
 	<li>In order for an intervention to be effective, <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/how-effective-drug-addiction-treatment">the treatment needs to be available immediately</a>. Since alcohol and substance abusers might not be certain about entering treatment and recovery, it is crucial to provide them with available services. The earlier the treatment is offered, the greater is the likelihood of positive outcomes.9Also, intervention should focus on the user as a person and their numerous needs, not just on their substance and/or alcohol abuse issues intervention and drug treatment service should also be appropriate to the individual’s age, gender, ethnicity, and culture.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Is the Success Rate of Intervention?"]
<ul>
 	<li>According to<a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/product/TAP-33-Systems-Level-Implementation-of-Screening-Brief-Intervention-and-Referral-to-Treatment-SBIRT/SMA13-4741">SAMHSA</a>, an intervention is the most likely to be successful if an individual can understand how their alcohol and/or drug abuse puts them at risk. It is crucial for them to understand that the intervention is staged out of care and concern for their wellbeing.10Supposing that the intervention team members have researched treatment programs and services before staging an intervention, it would be beneficial if they provided the user with several options. It is important for the individual to have a say in finding a suitable choice since that might give them a sense of autonomy. That way, they would be more invested in the treatment process and there would be a greater chance of a successful outcome.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][/faq-custom]
[accordion title="Payment Options For Addiction Treatment"]

<ul class="ul1">
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/">Treatment Types</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/paying-for-treatment/">Payment Options</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/aetna-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Aetna</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/anthem-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Anthem</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/bluecross-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Blue Cross Blue Shield</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/unitedhealth-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by United Health Insurance</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/cigna-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Cigna</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/kaiser-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Kaiser</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/humana-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Humana</a></li>
 	<li class="li2"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/tricare-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Tricare</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/molina-healthcare-covered-drug-rehab/">Treatment by Molina</a></li>
 	<li><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/insurance-information/">Other Insurance Providers</a></li>
</ul>
[/accordion]
&nbsp;

[sources title="Sources"]

1. American Society of Addiction Medicine. (2017). <a href="https://www.asam.org/Quality-Science/publications/magazine/read/article/2017/04/19/addiction-treatment-gap-awareness-week-starts-april-24th">Addiction Treatment Gap Awareness Week Starts April 24th.</a>

2. National Institute of Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/drug-addiction-treatment-worth-its-cost">Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition): Is drug addiction treatment worth its cost?</a>

3. American Psychological Association. (2011). <a href="https://www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/caregivers/practice-settings/intervention/johnson-intervention">Johnson Intervention.</a>

4. Arise Network. (2020). <a href="https://www.arise-network.com/overview/">Services Overview.</a>

5. Association of Intervention Specialists. (2017). <a href="https://www.associationofinterventionspecialists.org/what-is-arise-intervention/">What is an Arise Intervention?</a>

6. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. (2016). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK424859/">Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General's Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health.</a>

7. Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/when-a-loved-one-has-an-addiction">When a loved one has an addiction</a>.

8. Emmerton, L.M., Hoti, K., Hughes, J.D. and Lee, K. (2014). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3978031/">Interventions to Assist Health Consumers to Find Reliable Online Health Information: A Comprehensive Review.</a>

9. National Institute of Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/how-effective-drug-addiction-treatment">Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition): How effective is drug addiction treatment?</a>

10. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2013).<a href="https://store.samhsa.gov/product/TAP-33-Systems-Level-Implementation-of-Screening-Brief-Intervention-and-Referral-to-Treatment-SBIRT/SMA13-4741"> TAP 33: Systems-Level Implementation of Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT).</a>
[/sources]

Drug and Alcohol Addiction Intervention, Treatment, and Recovery

Xanax is the brand name for the anti-anxiety medication generically referred to as alprazolam. When used correctly in the short-term, Xanax treatment for anxiety can be helpful in most cases. However, long-term or improper use can lead to dependence and addiction, with potentially dangerous effects.1

According to the National Survey on Drug Abuse and Health from 2015, as many as 17.6 million people in the US use alprazolam products, including Xanax, which makes it the most commonly used benzodiazepine in the country. The high rate of prescriptions for this drug does have an effect on the number of people who may be likely to abuse it or develop addiction related to it based on the development of tolerance through long-term use or misuse.2

In the same year, more than 4.1 million people abused alprazolam. This represents about 1.6% of the population, and it is approaching one-quarter of the number of prescriptions given.2

Of course, not everyone who abuses Xanax has a prescription. For people who are at risk of becoming addicted to this medication or who are already struggling with addiction, professional treatment for Xanax addiction can be a lifeline to help with recovery and management of both the anxiety and the addiction.
<h2>Xanax: A Short-Term Benzodiazepine</h2>
Alprazolam is a <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/benzodiazepines/">type of many benzodiazepine drugs</a>. These drugs are commonly prescribed to manage a host of nervous system and mental health conditions, such as:3
<ul>
 	<li>Anxiety.</li>
 	<li>Panic disorders.</li>
 	<li>Seizures.</li>
 	<li>Insomnia.</li>
 	<li>Depression.</li>
</ul>
Like <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/benzodiazepines/klonopin/">other prescription benzodiazepines such as Klonopin</a>, Xanax works by increasing the activity of certain neurochemicals in the brain, including gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA. This means that Xanax treatment for anxiety consists of relaxing the signals traveling through the brain and nerves, resulting in a calming effect.3

Because of how Xanax acts on the brain, using it for a long period of time can cause long-term changes in the brain, including the potential for addiction. For this reason, it is recommended to be used only in the short-term and seek professional treatment for Xanax addiction should it develop.1

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15544" src="https://admin.treatmentsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/benzodiazepines-xanax.jpg" alt="xanax treatment for anxiety, overdose &amp; addiction" width="500" height="334" />
<h2>Xanax Abuse</h2>
The brain changes that occur from Xanax use can result in the individual developing tolerance for the drug. This means that, over time, more of the drug is needed to produce the original effect. Caused by repeated use of the drug over time, tolerance often results from the brain trying to compensate for the drug’s action on the nervous system by adjusting the production of the neurochemical that is affected by the drug.1

Because of tolerance, legitimate medical use of Xanax can lead to abuse. Most often, people may begin to abuse Xanax because it seems like the drug is no longer working well. This is a sign that tolerance has started to develop. If the individual then increases the dose or frequency of drug use, tolerance can develop at the higher dose, leading to a spiraling cycle that becomes drug abuse.4

There are instances where individuals use Xanax specifically to experience the “high” that it creates, without having a medical prescription for it. In this case, addiction can develop if the drug is used regularly for this purpose, building up tolerance in a similar manner.5
<h2>How to Know If Someone Is Abusing Xanax?</h2>
Usually, the signs of Xanax abuse can be spotted fairly easily. Since Xanax is a nervous system depressant, use of the drug results in a general slowing of bodily functions and more lethargic, fatigued physical and mental symptoms. These can include:6
<ul>
 	<li>Fatigue.</li>
 	<li>Insomnia.</li>
 	<li>Slowed reflexes.</li>
 	<li>Difficulty concentrating.</li>
 	<li>Slurred speech.</li>
 	<li>Slowed breathing and heart rate.</li>
</ul>
If a person is abusing Xanax through a legitimate medical prescription, another sign may be missing pills from the bottle, running out of the medication sooner than expected, or obtaining multiple prescriptions from multiple doctors or pharmacies.

[vob type="in-content"]
<h3>Behavioral Signs Someone Is Abusing Xanax</h3>
In addition to these signs, there are some behavioral cues from the individual that can indicate Xanax abuse is occurring, as defined by the <a href="http://gynecology.sbmu.ac.ir/uploads/4_5911178616359616931.pdf">Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders</a>. These include:7
<ul>
 	<li>A focus on seeking out the drug, using it, and recovering from the use of the drug.</li>
 	<li>Difficulties in relationships, responsibilities, and other activities based on drug use.</li>
 	<li>Not being able to control or stop drug use.</li>
 	<li>Participating in risky behaviors while using the drug.</li>
 	<li>Experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon stopping use.</li>
</ul>
[accordion title="Learn More About Benzodiazepine Addiction &amp; Treatment"]
<ul>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/benzodiazepines/xanax/treatment/">Find Effective Treatment for Xanax Abuse &amp; Addiction </a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/benzodiazepines/ativan/">Learn About Ativan Abuse &amp; Addiction </a></li>
 	<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/benzodiazepines/valium/">Learn About Valium Abuse &amp; Addiction </a></li>
</ul>
[/accordion]
<h2>Cognitive and Emotional Effects of Xanax Abuse</h2>
Xanax and other benzodiazepines can have negative effects on both short-term and long-term health.8 In the short-term, the symptoms and signs described above may occur, including sleepiness or insomnia, decreased reflexes, inability to concentrate, and so on. However, over time, these effects can be magnified, leading to more severe effects, including:8
<ul>
 	<li>Loss of memory.</li>
 	<li>Poor cognition.</li>
 	<li>Loss of emotional variation.</li>
 	<li>Depression.</li>
 	<li>Increased anxiety.</li>
</ul>
While a number of these mental symptoms begin to resolve when use is stopped, they may persist for months or even years after quitting Xanax use. In fact, the cognitive effects of benzo use, including memory loss, can persist for six months or longer after stopping the drugs. Obtaining treatment for Xanax addiction as early as possible for abuse or addiction can help to prevent or minimize these symptoms.9
<h2>What Happens if You Overdose on Xanax?</h2>
As with many drugs of abuse, overdose is a major risk with Xanax and other benzodiazepines. As reported by the <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates">National Institutes on Drug Abuse</a>, 8,700 people died of a benzodiazepine overdose in 2015. Such overdose deaths are on the rise, as the 2015 figure is more than four times the number of people who died of a benzo overdose in 2002. In addition, the risk of overdose and death can be increased when benzos are used with other substances that also depress the nervous system, like alcohol and opioids.10

Symptoms of Xanax overdose include:11
<ul>
 	<li>Severely slowed or stopped breathing.</li>
 	<li>Low heart rate and blood pressure.</li>
 	<li>Sleepiness.</li>
 	<li>Unconsciousness.</li>
 	<li>Coma.</li>
</ul>
If a person overdoses with Xanax, they need to receive emergency medical help immediately. With appropriate Xanax overdose treatment, many of the symptoms are reversible.11
<h2>What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Xanax?</h2>
As mentioned above, Xanax withdrawal can be dangerous if undertaken alone. As with many other drugs of abuse, one major risk is that the withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable enough to cause the person to continue using the drug instead of making effort to get treatment for Xanax addiction. However, when it comes to benzodiazepines, this is not the only risk during withdrawal.12

Stopping benzos use abruptly can send the neurological systems affected by the drug into a severe reaction, which may include the following symptoms:13
<ul>
 	<li>Tension and anxiety</li>
 	<li>Panic attacks</li>
 	<li>Nausea</li>
 	<li>Insomnia</li>
 	<li>Tremors</li>
 	<li>Seizures</li>
</ul>
In some cases, these symptoms can be severe enough to be life-threatening. For this reason, quitting cold turkey is never advisable with these drugs. It is important to get appropriate treatments for Xanax addiction that include supervision and support of medical professionals.14
<h2>Xanax Addiction Treatment</h2>
Like any addiction treatment, treatments for Xanax addiction start with detoxification, the purpose of which is to remove the harmful substance from the body. This may happen after the person has overdosed, so they need immediate Xanax overdose treatment, or the person may look for treatment when they realize that they have an addiction issue.

To avoid severe withdrawal symptoms that can occur during detoxification, the drug is typically discontinued gradually over a period of several weeks. It is possible to carry out outpatient detoxification, but inpatient treatment is advised in cases when the patient is going through withdrawal from very high doses.15

In cases when a person uses multiple drugs, the best option may be to switch to only one slow-acting benzodiazepine during detoxification, namely diazepam.15

Psychological treatment makes recovery from Xanax addiction more effective. Treatment options for Xanax addiction that combine psychotherapy with tapering give better results than the treatment that only reduces the drug dose.12 Psychotherapy has three main goals:8
<ul>
 	<li>To facilitate withdrawal</li>
 	<li>To support further abstinence</li>
 	<li>To treat the mental health issues that underlie addiction</li>
</ul>
The forms of psychotherapy can vary but the purpose is the same: to help the patient modify their patterns of thinking and behavior, and enhance their ability to deal with stressors so as to avoid using addictive drugs as a way of coping.16

[cta-helpline title="Are You Looking for a Supportive Treatment for Xanax Addiction?"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline]

[faq-custom][accordion title="How to Prevent Addiction to Xanax?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Since Xanax can be habit-forming, it is important that it is used exactly as prescribed, i.e. not in larger doses, more frequently, or for a longer period of time.17 Xanax should be used primarily in its extended-release formulation for a short period of time. In addition, it should generally not be prescribed to patients with substance use history.15</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Long Does It Take to Deal With Xanax Addiction?"]
<ul>
 	<li>The dose of Xanax is slowly reduced to avoid severe withdrawal. For most patients, this period of detoxification is 4 to 8 weeks long. In order to prevent relapse, patients are encouraged to continue with therapy. This may involve treating co-occurring mental health issues or group or family therapy. Generally, longer treatment retention tends to result in better outcomes.18</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="Where to Get Help for Xanax Addiction?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Treatment seekers can either first contact their physician or immediately look for an addiction treatment facility. A helpful tool may be the <a href="https://findtreatment.gov/">treatment locator</a> of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as it provides information on licensed treatment providers, including the facilities that provide treatments for Xanax addiction.19</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][/faq-custom]
[cta-helpline-image title="Are You or Your Loved One Struggling With Xanax Addiction?"]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline-image]
<h3>Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment</h3>
Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed 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. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.
[self-assessment phone=“(888) 287-0471"][/self-assessment]

[sources title="Sources"]

1. Ait-Daoud, N., Hamby, A. S., Sharma, S., &amp; Blevins, D. (2018). <a href="https://journals.lww.com/journaladdictionmedicine/Abstract/2018/02000/A_Review_of_Alprazolam_Use,_Misuse,_and_Withdrawal.2.aspx">A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal</a>. Journal of addiction medicine, 12(1), 4–10.

2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. (2016). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUH-FFR2-2015/NSDUH-FFR2-2015.htm">Prescription Drug Use and Misuse in the United States: Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health</a>.

3. George T. T., Tripp J. (2020) <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538165/#_NBK538165_pubdet_">Alprazolam</a>. StatPearls.

4. Vinkers, C. H., &amp; Olivier, B. (2012). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3321276/">Mechanisms Underlying Tolerance after Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use: A Future for Subtype-Selective GABA(A) Receptor Modulators?</a>. Advances in pharmacological sciences, 2012, 416864.

5. Reissig, C. J., Harrison, J. A., Carter, L. P., &amp; Griffiths, R. R. (2015). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4326558/">Inhaled vs. oral alprazolam: subjective, behavioral and cognitive effects, and modestly increased abuse potential</a>. Psychopharmacology, 232(5), 871–883.

6. WebMD. <a href="https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/benzodiazepine-abuse#2">Benzodiazepine Abuse</a>.

7. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). <a href="http://gynecology.sbmu.ac.ir/uploads/4_5911178616359616931.pdf">Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders</a>.

8. Ashton, C. H. (2002). <a href="https://www.benzo.org.uk/manual/index.htm">Benzodiazepines: How They Work &amp; How to Withdraw</a>. Newcastle University, The Institute of Neuroscience.

9. Barker, M. J., Greenwood, K. M., Jackson, M., Crowe, S. F. (2004). <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0887617703000969">Persistence of cognitive effects after withdrawal from long-term benzodiazepine use: a meta-analysis.</a>Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology, 19(3), 437-454.

10. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/drug-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates">Overdose Death Rates</a>.

11. Medical News Today. (2020). <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326551#symptoms">Xanax overdose: Symptoms, dangers, and what to do</a>.

12. Brett, J., &amp; Murnion, B. (2015). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4657308/">Management of benzodiazepine misuse and dependence</a>. Australian prescriber, 38(5), 152–155.

13. Pétursson H. (1994). <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7841856/">The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome.</a>Addiction.89(11), 1455-1459.

14.Medical News Today. (2020). <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/benzo-withdrawal#coping-strategies">Benzo withdrawal: Timeline and symptoms</a>.

15.Soyka, M. (2017). <a href="http://www.dickyricky.com/Medicine/Papers/2017_03_23%20NEJM%20Treatment%20of%20Benzodiazepine%20Dependence.pdf">Treatment of Benzodiazepine Dependence.</a>New England Journal of Medicine, 376, 1147-1157.

16. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/misuse-prescription-drugs/how-can-prescription-drug-addiction-be-treated">How can prescription drug addiction be treated?</a>

17. Medline Plus. <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684001.html">Alprazolam</a>.

18.National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/principles-effective-treatment#:~:text=%20Principles%20of%20Effective%20Treatment%20%201%20Addiction,Because%20drug-addicted%20individuals%20may%20be%20uncertain...%20More%20">Principles of Effective Treatment</a>.

19. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. <a href="https://findtreatment.gov/">FindTreatment.gov</a>.

[/sources]

Xanax Addiction, Overdose, & Treatment Options

Alcoholics Anonymous and Working Through the 12 Steps

According to the <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/data/data-we-collect/nsduh-national-survey-drug-use-and-health">National Survey on Drug Use and Health</a> conducted in 2019, 19.3 million people in the U.S. are struggling with addiction.1 This population is diverse both demographically and in terms of the abused substance, health condition, and other co-occurring disorders.

In order to cater to these diverse needs, it is necessary to have several different addiction treatment options, including partial hospitalization programs (PHP). Addiction is a highly individual disease and treatment programs that work for one person may not be the best option for everyone.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-15126" src="https://admin.treatmentsolutions.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/treatment-partial-hospitalization-program.jpg" alt="what is php treatment" width="500" height="334" />
<h2>What Is PHP Treatment?</h2>
PHP treatment programs are a great resource for people who do not require the <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/inpatient/substance-abuse/">strict structure of an inpatient substance abuse treatment program</a>, but require more than traditional outpatient programs offer. These programs have a multidisciplinary team of professionals who can provide or connect patients to a range of services such as medically supervised evaluation, detoxification, and referral. Many PHP treatment programs in the U.S. have close clinical and/or administrative ties to hospital centers.2

A PHP treatment program is often offered as a step-down level of care for those who have just completed a residential treatment program. It may also be a step-up for individuals who suffer a relapse while attending traditional outpatient addiction treatment programs as well. People attending PHP treatment programs continue to live at home during the duration of the program and go to a treatment facility for several hours each day during the week.

PHPs will commonly have similar rules and structure to IOPs or residential programs while the individual is on site. This means that patients in PHP addiction treatment are required to adhere to structured programming and not use smartphones or communicate with the outside world during the time they are at the treatment facility.
<h2>Is PHP Considered Inpatient?</h2>
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a type of outpatient addiction treatment program where a person requires medical care and attention in a structured facility for around 20 hours a week, generally 4-6 hours a day, five days a week.

Individuals in PHP addiction treatment may not require around-the-clock medical care and supervision. However, they may also not be quite ready for a traditional outpatient program either. A PHP treatment program can work as a kind of in-between for these two models of care.

[vob type="in-content"]
<h2>What Is the PHP Level of Care?</h2>
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) encourages both treatment providers and receivers to think about the models of care as a continuum in substance abuse treatment, rather than discrete levels of care. The five main points on this continuum are the following:3
<ul>
 	<li>Level 0.5: Early intervention treatment</li>
 	<li>Level 1: Outpatient treatment</li>
 	<li>Level 2: Intensive outpatient/PHP treatment</li>
 	<li>Level 3: Residential/Inpatient treatment</li>
 	<li>Level 4: Medically managed intensive inpatient treatment</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Components of PHP Treatment Programs</h2>
Components of a PHP may include:
<ul>
 	<li>Detox. Mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms can be managed during PHP addiction treatment. However, more significant withdrawal symptoms may require medical detox in a more secure setting.</li>
 	<li>Medication management. Medications are often a beneficial component of addiction treatment and recovery as they can help to minimize cravings, manage withdrawal, and treat co-occurring disorders.</li>
 	<li>Medical care. Individuals may have medical needs that require attention and care by trained professionals during a PHP.</li>
 	<li>Psychiatric care and evaluation. The <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/disorders/co-occurring">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration</a> (SAMHSA) publishes that 9.5 million people in the U.S. battled both a mental health disorder and addiction at the same time in 2019.4 It is therefore important for addiction treatment programs to screen for, identify, and simultaneously treat any potential co-occurring disorders.</li>
 	<li>Group and individual therapy. Therapy and counseling sessions are some of the most important tools used during addiction treatment programs. Individuals can learn vital skills for improving how they think, feel, and act, which can in turn improve their behaviors, coping mechanisms, communication and relationship skills, and social interactions.</li>
 	<li>Educational programs, relapse prevention, and life skills training. Relapse is a part of addiction as a chronic disease. According to the <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery">National Institute on Drug Abuse</a> (NIDA) reports that 40-60% of those suffering from the disorder will struggle with relapse.5 Prevention techniques, coping mechanisms, learning how to recognize triggers, and education into the disease of addiction and recovery can all help to minimize relapse and help people to lead full and healthy lives.</li>
 	<li>Holistic methods. Things like spa treatments, massage therapy, yoga, mindfulness meditation, equine-assisted therapy, chiropractic care, art therapy, acupuncture, nutrition planning, fitness regimes, and more are all adjunctive and complementary methods that can be helpful during a PHP treatment program.</li>
</ul>
As addiction is individual, the choice of components of PHP addiction treatment may differ as well. <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/">In order to establish which treatment options are optimal</a>, trained professionals first do a thorough mental health and medical evaluation upon or prior to admission into a PHP treatment program to determine which methods should be employed in order to best serve the individual.
<h3>Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment</h3>
Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed 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. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.

[self-assessment phone="(877) 640-1943"][/self-assessment]
<h2>Are Partial Hospitalization Programs Effective?</h2>
A PHP treatment program is generally more cost-effective than a residential program. It may also be covered by health insurance at different rates, depending on the person’s policy and coverage. For instance, <a href="https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/partial-hospitalization-mental-health-care.html">Medicare</a> coverage may be applied to eligible PHP programs. It may be a great resource for those who live in a stable home environment and who are able to safely return home each night.PHP addiction treatment can be ideal when drug or alcohol dependence is not as severe.3 However, it is not the most effective solution in the case of opioid, benzodiazepine, or alcohol dependence and/or addiction. In these cases, individuals should seek out a <a href="https://treatmentsolutions.com/treatment/detox-programs/">comprehensive medical detox program</a>. Since withdrawal symptoms for these substances may be life-threatening, this process should be managed with continuous supervision of vital signs and mental health status. Withdrawal from other substances, or less severe cases of physical dependence, can be managed by a PHP.

&nbsp;

[cta-helpline title="Find Help &amp; Guidance in a Well-Devised PHP Program."]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline]

&nbsp;

[faq-custom][accordion title="Do I Need Partial Hospitalization?"]
<ul>
 	<li>If the assessment shows that 24-hour supervision and medical support are not necessary, then the patient is a candidate for a PHP treatment program. This decision will also depend on the patient’s home situation (support of family members) and access to treatment facilities.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Happens in a PHP Program?"]
<ul>
 	<li>Individuals who have already completed a residential addiction treatment program may benefit from the step down into a PHP treatment programas offered through a full continuum of care. Individuals may transition into a sober living home or community, or another form of transitional housing, after a stay in a residential treatment center and continue on with a partial hospitalization program during the day.Treatment providers may even provide transportation to and from the transitional living arrangements and PHP. This can provide people with a middle ground before returning back to society and everyday life, allowing individuals time to heal and develop healthy habits that can be sustained long-term.People enrolled in PHP treatment programsduring the day may also attend support groups or 12-Step meetings in the evenings or on weekends to further enhance recovery. PHP treatment programs provide more structure and supervision than a traditional outpatient program and can also be a great choice for people wishing to step up into a more comprehensive and structured level of care.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="What Happens After PHP Addiction Treatment?"]
<ul>
 	<li>After completing a short-term PHP treatment program, individuals should transition into outpatient care. Outpatient services that can help to enhance a long recovery following a PHP include the following:
<ul>
 	<li>Group, family, and individual therapy sessions</li>
 	<li>Support group meetings</li>
 	<li>Relapse prevention programs</li>
 	<li>Education and training programs</li>
 	<li>Medication management</li>
 	<li>Alumni and aftercare services</li>
</ul>
Follow-up care and aftercare programs provided by trained professionals within the confines of a specialized addiction treatment facility or program are important for sustained recovery after completing PHP addiction treatment.

Again, partial hospitalization programs are often provided as step-down or step-up programs within a full continuum of care provided by a specialized addiction treatment program. Trained providers can help individuals and families determine placement into an addiction treatment program, and people may move between levels of care as needed.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][accordion title="How Long Is a PHP Program?"]
<ul>
 	<li>According to <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/principles-effective-treatment">NIDA recommendations</a>, the duration of intensive outpatient treatments should be 90 days minimum since a longer period of care correlates to more positive treatment outcomes.6 However, there is no one set standard that fits everyone. The optimal length of treatment will depend on many factors, including the person’s clinical needs, psychological condition, and the support system that they have.</li>
</ul>
[/accordion][/faq-custom]
[cta-helpline-image title="Find a Treatment Program That Works for You."]American Addiction Centers is open 24/7 to help you find treatment.[/cta-helpline-image]

&nbsp;

[sources title="Sources"]

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. (2020). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/data/data-we-collect/nsduh-national-survey-drug-use-and-health">National Survey on Drug Use and Health</a>.

2. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2006). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64109/">Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment (Treatment Improvement Protocol Series, No. 45).</a>

3. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2006). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64088/">Substance Abuse: Clinical Issues in Intensive Outpatient Treatment (Treatment Improvement Protocol Series, No. 47).</a>

4. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration. (2020). <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disorders">Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders</a>.

5. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020).<a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery">Treatment and Recovery</a>.

6. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/principles-effective-treatment">Principles of Effective Treatment</a>.
[/sources]

Partial Hospitalization (PHP) Addiction Treatment

<div>Daniel Hurth is a contributor at Treatment Solutions. He has a bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness and Psychology from Arizona State University and a background in writing and revision. Since he started writing for Treatment Solutions, his focus has been to create informative content based on in-depth research.
</div>

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