Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR): How Medication Can Support Long-Term Recovery

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)/Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) helps so many people in their recovery from substance use disorders (SUDS).  There is no singular journey to recovery, and MAT/MAR is just one way to help those struggling with alcohol or opioid addiction.

What Is MAT/MAR?

MAT/MAR is an evidence-based treatment program that assists individuals who struggle with opioid use disorders, stimulant use disorders, and alcohol use disorders. Treatment programs can use FDA approved medications such as Naltrexone or Buprenorphine to aid with reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms once an individual stops using substances. For a successful treatment program, these medications are used in combination with individual therapy, group therapy, peer support, and case management services. MAT/MAR is not merely a pharmacological solution; it encompasses a holistic approach to recovery.

How MAT/MAR Works

MAT/MAR is holistic, meaning just taking medications does not encompass the whole picture. Individuals benefit greater when a treatment plan also includes counseling or therapy, peer support, group therapy, and case management services. This has been proven to reduce cravings, prevent withdrawal symptoms, lower the risk of overdose, and support your long-term recovery.

At Starting Point Behavioral Healthcare, we offer MAR programs to help you in your recovery. To learn more and get support, you can visit us during our Open Access Hours.

Common Medications Used in MAT/MAR

·         Buprenorphine (Suboxone®, Sublocade®)

·         Naltrexone (Vivitrol®)

·         Methadone*

To find out what medication may work best for you, talk to a medical practitioner.

*Starting Point Behavioral Healthcare does not use Methadone in our MAR treatment program.

Benefits of MAT/MAR

·         Improves treatment retention

·         Reduces illicit opioid use

·         Reduces overdose deaths

·         Improves employment and family stability

·         Supports recovery goals

·         Reduces criminal justice involvement

Is MAT/MAR Right for Everyone?

An important component of recovery is that every journey is unique. If you believe that MAT/MAR way work for your recovery, talk to a healthcare provider and find a treatment program that works for you. Treatment is individualized for each person, and it is important to always have medical supervision with consistent check-ins to make sure your program is working for you.

Common Myths About Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Despite decades of research demonstrating the effectiveness of MAT/MAR Programs, misconceptions continue to prevent many people from seeking care. Understanding the facts can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to explore treatment options that support long-term recovery.

Some myths include:

“MAT/MAR is replacing one drug with another.”

Realistically, these medications work differently than illicit opioids by helping to stabilize brain chemistry, reduce cravings, and prevent withdrawal symptoms without producing the same euphoric effects when taken as directed. Rather than replacing one addiction with another, MAT/MAR helps people regain stability so they can focus on rebuilding their lives. Many individuals are better able to maintain employment, strengthen relationships, participate in counseling, and work toward their personal recovery goals while receiving medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

"Recovery isn't real if you're taking medication."

Recovery is about improving health, wellness, and quality of life, not about whether someone takes medication. Just as people may take medication to manage diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic health conditions, medication can be an important part of treating opioid use disorder.

Find Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)/ and Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) in Nassau County, Florida

Starting Point Behavioral Healthcare can help you with your recovery. To learn more, head to our website and visit us during our Open Access Hours to establish care. We look forward to meeting you!