Medically Assisted Treatment

The appropriate use of medications for individuals suffering from severe depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, or other behavioral disorders can be extremely helpful in furthering recovery. This is a process of balance, because the inappropriate use of medications can be a major cause of relapse and suffering. The challenge we face, especially in those who are recovering from a chemical dependency, is to identify those who will truly benefit from medication and those who will not.

Get confidential help now: 855.396.1913 or EMAIL US.

Medical Evaluation

All patients admitted to Kansas Drug Rehabilitation will have their medication needs thoroughly evaluated. This includes assessment of the medications patients are taking prior to admission to Kansas Drug Rehabilitation as well as the need for medications during their hospitalization. We often will discontinue all medications, if it is felt to be safe, to allow the patient a “drug washout.” This can often be extremely enlightening when done in a controlled setting, since many patients have problems that were caused by medications rather than relieved by them.

Experts in Medication Management

The medical and psychiatric staff at Kansas Drug Rehabilitation are experts, trained in the management of medications for use in psychiatric illness and chemical dependency. A thorough evaluation is given prior to prescribing any medication. We also talk with patients before a prescription is considered to discover their perspective on medications. Prescribing medications to a patient who is not willing to take them only invites non-compliance and failure. We offer educational sessions on medications in several of our informational lectures. A weekly mental health lecture also discusses the appropriate use of medications by any individual with a mental illness or a chemical dependency problem. Patients are educated about what medications may or may not be helpful. We also provide referrals to sources of information that can answer questions about specific issues.

In the past, patients have been advised that, “In recovery, all drugs are bad and should be avoided.” Although the intent of this message was valid, today it is neither practical nor helpful. Patients will be making decisions on a regular basis with issues regarding medications. Individuals need a process by which they can sort out the good medications (helpful and necessary) from the bad, as well as an environment that continually supports them.

Get confidential help now: 855.396.1913 or EMAIL US.