Blue Hills Hospital-Substance Abuse Division

Hartford, Connecticut is a small city that is making big strides in treating addiction. The city’s efforts to tackle the opioid epidemic is admirable given that the state saw 1,200 opioid related deaths in 2017, a 5% increase from the previous year. Addiction treatment in Hartford has been tailored to meet specific needs of patients at different stages of addiction. This ranges from interventions, detox, and rehab to counseling and support groups. The goal of addiction treatment in Hartford is to provide a holistic approach by addressing the physical, mental and social aspects of the addiction.Intervention is the first step in helping an addict accept that they have a problem and need treatment. Loved ones, family members, friends or concerned professionals organize interventions to confront and offer support to the addict. A trained specialist is usually present to help mediate conversations and offer insights. Since most addicts deny that they have a problem, interventions can help break their denial and lead them towards seeking help.Detoxification, or detox, is the process of getting drugs and other substances out of the body. This can be a dangerous and often painful process, and hence detox should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional. This is especially true for opioid addictions as the withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life threatening. Medical detox can help manage withdrawal symptoms and also minimize the risk of other medical complications.Rehabilitation or rehab is the next phase of addiction treatment in Hartford. This process can take several months but is worth the time investment as it increases a patient’s chance of long-term recovery. It involves an intensive program that focuses on therapies and evidence-based treatments that target the root causes of addiction. This includes individual and group counseling, behavioral therapies, relapse prevention and ongoing support. Rehab provides a safe space for patients to focus on their recovery without any outside distractions.Counseling is an important part of addiction treatment in Hartford. It helps patients address emotional and mental health issues that may have contributed to their addiction. Counseling can be done on an individual basis or as group sessions. Individual counseling sessions usually focus on addressing the root causes of addiction whereas group therapy sessions provide support and encouragement to each member.Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can be found throughout Hartford. These groups offer a safe environment where patients can share their experiences and seek support from others in similar situations. Being part of a support group is vital for sustaining long-term recovery.In conclusion, addiction treatment in Hartford operates on the principle that addiction is a disease that requires holistic treatment. Treatment is tailored to meet the specific needs of patients at different stages of the addiction. The city is also tackling addiction through various initiatives like reducing opioid prescriptions, increasing access to naloxone, and educating the public on the dangers of addiction. Addiction is a complex and chronic disease, but with the right treatment, it is possible to live a drug-free life.