Finding Reputable Iowa Heroin Addiction Treatment

Admitting to yourself that you have an addiction to heroin is a big step, but it’s merely the first on the road to long-term recovery. The next step, finding reputable Iowa heroin addiction treatment, is every bit as crucial—and it can be every bit as challenging.

With so many addiction treatment centers and rehabs to choose from, identifying the one that will provide you with the right tools and support can be daunting. As eager as you likely are to begin, it is essential to take the time to carefully research the available options. The quality of the treatment center that you choose can make or break your odds of achieving meaningful, long-term sobriety.

Here are seven considerations to make when seeking Iowa heroin addiction treatment:

Start With an Assessment

Admitting and accepting that you have an addiction to heroin is a monumental step. However, it can be tricky to know which type of treatment to pursue. Although a stay at a residential treatment center is generally the prescribed course of action, it isn’t suitable for every situation. Therefore, after admitting you have a problem and deciding to seek treatment, get an assessment from a qualified medical professional. This may be a licensed clinical social worker; a psychiatrist who specializes in addiction treatment; or a doctor who is preferably certified by the American Society of Addiction Medicine.

Look for Longevity

In recent years, many fly-by-night treatment centers have sprung up. All too often, they are plagued by unethical or unlawful practices and end up shutting down quickly. Therefore, it is wise to stick with treatment centers that have reasonably long track records. Try to stick with treatment centers and rehabs that have been around for at least five years. If they have lasted that long, they are almost certainly doing decent work.

Ask About the Available Services and Resources

It is crucial to choose an addiction treatment center that offers services and resources that specifically address your needs and symptoms. For example, if you have a dual diagnosis of anxiety, depression or another mood disorder or mental illness—as many people who suffer from addictions do—you will want to choose a facility that offers the right support. Facilities may offer a range of services, including cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, art therapy and other resources that can make your journey more successful. Always ask about each service that is listed on a facility’s website; all too often, services are listed that aren’t actually offered.

Find Out Whether Medication is Offered

If you want the option of using medication to assist you through detoxification and early sobriety, ask if program you are considering offers it. Some programs follow what is known as an abstinence model, which means that no medication is provided under any circumstances. Others provide what are known as maintenance medications to help ease the transition from active addiction to sober living, such as naltrexone and methadone. Still others provide medical detox that includes medications to ease the symptoms of withdrawing from heroin.

Make Sure That You Can Afford Rehab

In a perfect world, you wouldn’t have to worry about financial matters when trying to overcome an active addiction to heroin or other substances. Sadly, however, addiction treatment isn’t free. However, the cost can vary significantly, so it pays to search around a little if you are on a tight budget. Additionally, if you have health insurance, look for a program that accepts your plan to save on out-of-pocket expenses. You’re paying for that insurance, so it doesn’t hurt to see what you can get out of it that will benefit you.

Check Credentials

You can be certain that any addiction treatment center that you look into will claim to be fully licensed and credentialed. Unfortunately, you can’t just take their word for it. Stick with facilities that are licensed by the state as required. Only choose treatment centers that are properly accredited; look for an accreditation from The Joint Commission or CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, for best results. While you are at it, look at reviews online and from places like the Better Business Bureau to find out what others have to say.

Ask About Aftercare Options

Finishing an initial stay at a heroin addiction treatment center is only the beginning of the work that needs to be done to maintain a sober life. The best treatment centers provide aftercare or post-treatment support that is designed to minimize the risk of relapse. Many offer programs that are specifically designed to smooth the transition from rehab to outpatient treatment, which should typically be the next step. The important thing here is knowing that you won’t be left hanging once you have completed your program. You should be able to count on the facility to help you to figure out your next steps.

Finding Suitable Heroin Treatment is Possible

Although it may seem like a lot of work is required to find suitable addiction treatment, it will all pay off when you find yourself in an environment that is truly conducive to helping you to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety. Upon completing treatment at a reputable and suitable facility, you should come away armed with the skills that you need to take the next steps on your journey–and you will be much stronger for it too.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and are ready to take the first step to recovery, contact us. Our professional staff is waiting to help you find the right Iowa heroin addiction treatment today.