Heroin Addiction Treatment in Atlanta

Heroin is a highly addictive opioid drug, and the rise in its use has become a critical public health issue in Atlanta, Georgia. The Georgia Department of Public Health reported that from 2010 to 2016, heroin-related overdose deaths increased by 1,000 percent statewide.

Drug treatment options for heroin addiction in Atlanta vary by intensity and methodology and include everything from medical detox and residential inpatient treatment to various forms of outpatient treatment, therapy, support groups, and sober living environments post-treatment.

Medical detox is the first step in treating heroin addiction, where patients are safely weaned off the drug under the supervision of a medical professional to manage withdrawal symptoms. Several Atlanta hospitals and clinics like Peachford Hospital and Emory Healthcare offer detox services.

Residential or Inpatient Rehab Program is another potent way to treat heroin addiction where patients live in the facility throughout the treatment, engaging in various therapy and counseling sessions. Facilities like the Atlanta Recovery Center and RiverMend Health Centers provide this kind of intensive, residential treatment.

Outpatient Treatment is a flexible method for individuals who cannot take time away from their responsibilities. Atlanta's several outpatient clinics like GEORGIA HOPE and New Start Recovery and Wellness Center offer flexibility and comprehensive care.

Heroin addiction is often treated with medication-assisted treatments (MAT) — medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. In Georgia, accredited treatment centers like Tangu and Talbott Recovery offer MAT programs.

Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are also part of the recovery process, providing a community for people recovering from heroin addiction. Georgia has several NA meetings across Atlanta and the state.

Atlanta sober living homes also help those recovering from heroin addiction transition back into everyday life. They provide a drug-free environment for residents and often offer counseling and job placement services.

According to The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), as of 2019, there are 67 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Facilities in Atlanta, Georgia.

In a study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, medication-assisted treatment, in combination with behavioral therapy, reduced the need for inpatient detoxification services for those struggling with heroin addiction by 50%.

Unfortunately, the heroin and opioid crisis continues to grow in Georgia. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation reported that in 2016, out of the 4,598 drug-related deaths, 1,022 were due to heroin or fentanyl, or a combination of both.

In conclusion, heroin addiction is a significant problem in Atlanta, GA, but there are a variety of treatment options available. Combining these resources, from medical detox, rehab programs, and therapy to support groups, can help those struggling with addiction find the path to recovery.