Below are helpful resources for people with a history of substance abuse problems:
medication-assisted treatment
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of FDA-approved medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat opioid or alcohol use disorders. To learn more about this type of treatment, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website.
For information about VADOC’s MAT program, watch the video below – Medication Assisted Treatment Reentry Initiative (MATRI).
naloxone
Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is an opioid antagonist used to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone is a safe antidote for suspected opioid overdose and can save lives if given in time. Naloxone can be given nasally or by injection into a muscle or under the skin to a person suspected of having an overdose.
Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider for information on how to get Narcan. You can also check with your local health department or community office for how and when you can get a free NARCAN® nasal spray kit.
SAMHSA National Hotline – 1 (800) 662-HELP
The SAMHSA National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365 days a year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families dealing with mental health and/or substance use disorders. You can also visit the SAMHSA online treatment finder.
Peer Recovery Services
Certified peer recovery specialists facilitate group programs designed to support parole officers and parole officers in their recovery while in supervision. Peer recovery specialists have lived experience in recovering from drug use and offer their own personal experiences to offer hope to others. For more information, see the following video – VADOC Peer Recovery Specialist Initiative.