The road to recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD) is long, and each person needs different types of support along the way. Outpatient treatment centers provide comprehensive care, and some offer virtual treatment options. Your primary care doctor, mental health care providers, and other types of clinics and hospitals can help with many aspects of recovery. There are also 24-hour hotlines that can connect you with the right resources when you’re not sure what to do.
In the moments when you need help most, finding someone you can trust may seem overwhelming. Social support and effective treatments are available, even if you don’t have insurance or financial resources.
In this article, we’ll talk about six trustworthy resources you can access for help with OUD.
6 trusted places to turn when you need help for opioid addiction
The best option for you right now will depend on what challenges you’re facing and what your recovery goals are. If you’re experiencing an emergency that could be life-threatening or lead to permanent disability, you should seek emergency care. Some signs of a medical emergency include difficulty breathing, severe chest pain or pressure, seizures lasting more than a minute, or loss of consciousness. While you’re in recovery, you should also see a physician for ongoing treatment needs. Your insurance, your budget, or eligibility for financial assistance can also factor into care decisions.
Navigating the healthcare system isn’t easy. Some hospitals and organizations offer patient advocate. They can help you find care and get help paying for it.
At Groups, our Recovery Support Specialists help our members find out if they’re eligible for Medicaid, grants, and other programs. They help with the applications, too.
The following are six trustworthy resources you can turn to for help with OUD:
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Specialized addiction treatment centers
Inpatient and outpatient OUD treatment centers provide specialized care for the challenges people face in recovery. At Groups, we provide personalized outpatient treatment for each member based on their recovery goals.
Our program is built on Suboxone and support. You’ll attend weekly group sessions with other people who are in recovery. You’ll work with a qualified prescriber to find a medication that works for you.
You’ll also have access to Recovery Support Specialists. They can help you take steps toward life goals. For example, they may help you provide for your family and find affordable and safe housing. See if there’s a Groups location near you.
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Your primary care provider
Your doctor may be able to help with medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). They can have frank conversations with you about maintaining your health during recovery. They can also help with general health concerns. They may refer you to specialists as necessary.
Primary care physicians have strict rules about patient confidentiality. They’re expected to provide nonjudgmental care. For the most supportive care, you should find a provider you trust and feel safe talking to.
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Mental health professionals
An outpatient therapist can be a great ally in every stage of recovery. And you don’t need a mental health diagnosis to see one. Your therapist can help create some structure in your journey toward personal growth.
They can provide education on how your brain works. They can also work with you on specific goals. A few examples include building your confidence and improving relationship skills. If you have a condition that may require medication, a psychiatrist or other provider can help you with a prescription.
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Hospital emergency departments
Emergency care may be needed if someone is experiencing an overdose or dealing with other urgent health concerns related to OUD. Once you’re stabilized, most emergency departments can refer you to other care providers for follow-up and maintenance.
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Community health centers and clinics
There may be federally qualified health centers or other community health clinics in your area that offer care regardless of your ability to pay. These typically offer services that you would go to a primary care doctor for. They may be able to provide MOUD or refer you to affordable or free mental health care services and other specialized services. Some may offer sliding scale payment options.
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National and state helplines
You can call the SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). They can give instant referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. It’s free and available 24 hours a day, every day.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can connect you with a crisis counselor to help you through moments of distress. Police are also going to be involved. It’s also available at any time of day. See SAMHSA’s website for more help lines.
Find treatment for opioid use disorder at your local Groups clinic
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that help is available. You don’t have to get through this alone. There may be specialized OUD support services available in your area. If not, there may be virtual treatment programs you can access from home. Need help with reliable phone and internet service? We can help with that, too.
At Groups, we provide treatment for the whole person, which includes Suboxone and support. We help you define your own recovery goals so your treatment supports the life you want to live. We provide education and pair you with a qualified MOUD prescriber so you can make informed decisions. Groups treatment helps you build the relationships, skills, and support systems needed for long-term recovery.
Looking for help right now? Call one of the resources listed here or get in touch with our Recovery Support Specialists today.
We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
