Heroin Addiction Treatment in Washington and Oregon

Written by Thomas Christiansen

& Medically Reviewed by Christina Caplinger, RPh

Medically Reviewed

Up to Date

This article was reviewed by a medical professional to guarantee the delivery of accurate and up-to- date information. View our research policy.

Last Updated - 6/17/2022

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Heroin is a strong, addictive opioid. Heroin is stronger and more addictive than most other opioids, and treatment for heroin addiction is usually similar to that of other opioid addictions. Treatment for heroin addiction generally starts with medically-supervised detoxification.

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    Heroin Treatment

    Regular heroin use changes the reward and pain pathways in the brain. Like withdrawal from other opioids, heroin withdrawal is often associated with the following symptoms:

    • Runny nose
    • Sweating, chills and tremors
    • Muscle cramping
    • Nausea, diarrhea and vomiting
    • Anxiety and agitation

    The majority of people who regularly use heroin experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when they stop using the drug. Undergoing the withdrawal process in a facility that provides medically-supervised detoxification services can help reduce discomfort and allow the patient to detox in the safety of medical supervision.

    Sometimes heroin withdrawal and detoxification takes place in a hospital often after being sent to the emergency department for an overdose. Other people may make a planned decision to enter a treatment facility that provides detox services. Better outcomes are usually achieved if inpatient or outpatient treatment is sought after the initial detox process.

    Inpatient vs. Outpatient Heroin Addiction Treatment

    After experiencing a heroin overdose, people may seek inpatient detox services at a hospital or they might look for admission to a specialized treatment facility for medically-supervised detox. Either option can be beneficial, but in many cases, receiving treatment services from a qualified addiction treatment provider allows for the seamless coordination of care.

    Detoxing at a behavioral health facility also allows a person to get more than basic medical care during this critical phase of early recovery. Counseling and other behavioral healthcare services can be offered while undergoing detox at a facility. Early intervention is important as it allows for an easier transition from detox to longer-term treatment on an inpatient or outpatient basis.

    The decision regarding inpatient or outpatient treatment depends on many individual factors, including:

    • Financial means
    • Geographic access to different levels of care
    • Previous episodes of opioid detox/treatment
    • The severity of the substance use disorder

    Recent overdoses, suicide attempts or setbacks after previous treatment are all factors that might indicate a higher level of care is necessary. Similar services are often provided in inpatient and outpatient programs. Some services include:

    • Individual and group therapy
    • Therapy and medical management for co-existing mental health disorders (like depression or anxiety)
    • Recreational and creative therapy
    • Peer support groups and activities

    In residential treatment, people reside in a safe environment where stressors or triggers are minimal. Also, nutrition support and meal planning services are available along with access to recreational and wellness activities.

    How Much Does Heroin Rehab Cost?

    Inpatient rehab is usually more expensive than outpatient treatment because of the costs of more intensive, 24/7 services as well as the cost housing and meals. It’s important to consider what the most effective level of care is, not what is the most affordable level of care. Receiving the appropriate level of care is safe and effective, and it is generally most efficient in addressing addiction.

    Does Insurance Cover Rehab for Heroin Addiction?

    Each person’s insurance plan varies, so individuals will likely need to find out what their plans cover to determine their level of coverage. The Recovery Village Ridgefield accepts several insurance plans for both inpatient and outpatient substance use treatment. Contact a representative at The Recovery Village Ridgefield to discuss insurance plans and addiction treatment in general. Take the first step toward a healthier future by reaching out today.

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    Heroin Addiction Treatment Centers in Washington & Oregon

    Qualified clinical providers and counselors can assist in determining the level of care that is necessary for a particular individual. Many options for heroin addiction treatment are available in Washington and Oregon. Some factors to consider before choosing a program include:

    • Whether the facility is accessible
    • If the facility is a state-licensed facility
    • If aftercare planning and support is available
    • Whether others who have received care at the facility recommend it
    • What services the facility provides
    • The philosophy that the facility follows
    • The availability of treatment for co-occurring behavioral or medical conditions

    Integrated treatment, which involves simultaneous treatment for substance use and mental health disorders, is generally more effective than treating the disorders separately. Those with a co-occurring mental health condition may benefit from receiving necessary mental health care while participating in substance treatment.

    The Recovery Village Ridgefield offers accredited addiction treatment programs for residents of Washington and Oregon. Call to discuss treatment options with an admissions representative. Take the first step toward a healthier future by reaching out today.

    Sources

    National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Heroin.” June 2018. Accessed May 13, 2019.

    Timko, Christine. “Patient and Program Factors that Bridge the Detoxification-Treatment Gap: A Structured Evidence Review.” Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, May 2015. Accessed May 13, 2019.

    Kelly, TM and Daley DC. “Integrated Treatment of Substance Use and Psychiatric Disorders.” Social Work Public Health, August 26, 2013. Accessed May 13, 2019.

    View Sources

    National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Heroin.” June 2018. Accessed May 13, 2019.

    Timko, Christine. “Patient and Program Factors that Bridge the Detoxification-Treatment Gap: A Structured Evidence Review.” Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, May 2015. Accessed May 13, 2019.

    Kelly, TM and Daley DC. “Integrated Treatment of Substance Use and Psychiatric Disorders.” Social Work Public Health, August 26, 2013. Accessed May 13, 2019.

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