Nemours DuPont Hospital for Children Division of Behavioral Health

Wilmington, Delaware, is becoming known as an addiction treatment hub. This mid-sized city hosts a range of addiction treatment centers, including detox and residential rehab. Among the reasons that Wilmington has seen such an emergence of addiction treatment centers is due to the opioid epidemic taking over the United States, and Delaware is no stranger to addiction. The state has experienced a high rate of opioid-related deaths, which has led to more attention and action towards addiction treatment. Another reason for the increase in addiction treatment centers in Wilmington is because the city has a younger population, many of whom are struggling with addiction. Young adults are particularly vulnerable to drug and alcohol abuse due to genetics, environment, and risky behaviors. There are a few approaches to addiction treatment in Wilmington. One popular approach is called the 12-step approach, which is modeled on the organization Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The 12-step approach is a spiritual-based system that believes that acceptance and surrender are crucial steps towards recovery. The model is designed to help addicts realize their powerlessness over their addiction and to help them turn their lives over to a higher power. Another model used throughout the area is the medication-assisted therapy approach (MAT). Medication-assisted treatment involves using medication to reduce cravings and neutralize the effects of the substance. For those with opioid addiction, drugs such as buprenorphine and methadone are used. Beyond these two models of treatment, there is a range of addiction treatment options available in Wilmington. Some people opt for residential or inpatient rehab, which involves being admitted to a facility and staying there for a certain period of time. This is typically more intensive treatment and includes everything from detox, to individual and group therapy, to holistic modalities, like yoga and acupuncture. Outpatient treatment is an option that allows individuals to continue to work or attend school while receiving treatment. The outpatient model typically provides a range of treatment types, such as therapy, medication assistance, or both. Intensive outpatient is similar to outpatient, except it involves a more intensive schedule of therapy and medication-assisted treatment. Despite the many approaches to addiction treatment, it’s important to note that successful treatment always includes a comprehensive and individualized plan for the patient. Seeking addiction treatment is a highly personal decision, and success hinges on a patient’s commitment to sobriety, their support system, and the quality of addiction services they receive. Whether patients opt for a 12-step program, MAT, inpatient treatment or outpatient treatment, what’s important is that they receive love, compassion, and high-quality care from those who are working to help them overcome addiction. Finally, the state of Delaware has enacted various measures to help those struggling with addiction in Wilmington, including the implementing medication-assisted treatment in prisons, increasing funding for addiction treatment programs, and expanding access to addiction medication. Addiction is a chronic disease that affects millions of people across the country. Fortunately, with the burgeoning addiction treatment scene in Wilmington, it is now easier than ever for residents to access high-quality treatment and begin their journey towards recovery.