Embarking on a treatment journey with Naltrexone is a significant step towards recovery. While the medication plays a crucial role, a comprehensive support system can greatly enhance your chances of success. This guide provides a thorough list of support options and resources available to patients undergoing Naltrexone treatment, helping you build a robust network of support for your recovery journey.

Table of Contents

Local Support Groups for Naltrexone Patients

Local support groups offer invaluable face-to-face interactions with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of Naltrexone treatment. While not all groups are specifically for Naltrexone users, many welcome individuals using medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

NA is a global organization providing support for individuals recovering from drug addiction.

  • Description: While NA's official stance is abstinence-based, many local groups are welcoming to those using MAT, including Naltrexone.
  • How to Access: Visit na.org and use their meeting locator tool.
  • What to Expect: Meetings typically involve members sharing their experiences, strength, and hope related to recovery.
  • Benefits: Wide availability of meetings, structured program, and peer support.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

AA is primarily for those recovering from alcohol addiction but can be beneficial for individuals using Naltrexone for alcohol use disorder.

  • Description: A worldwide fellowship of people who help each other to stay sober.
  • How to Access: Visit aa.org and use their meeting finder.
  • What to Expect: Meetings follow a similar format to NA, with a focus on alcohol-specific issues.
  • Benefits: Extensive network of meetings, well-established program.

SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery is a science-based addiction recovery support group that is explicitly inclusive of those using MAT, including Naltrexone.

  • Description: Offers tools and techniques for recovery based on scientific research.
  • How to Access: Visit smartrecovery.org and use their meeting locator.
  • What to Expect: Meetings focus on self-empowerment and self-reliance, using cognitive-behavioral techniques.
  • Benefits: Evidence-based approach, tools for managing thoughts and behaviors.

LifeRing Secular Recovery

LifeRing is an abstinence-based support group that welcomes those using MAT, including Naltrexone.

  • Description: Emphasizes personal growth and developing one's "sober self."
  • How to Access: Visit lifering.org and use their meeting finder.
  • What to Expect: Meetings focus on current challenges and successes in maintaining sobriety.
  • Benefits: Secular approach, focus on individual empowerment.

Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous (MARA)

MARA is a support group specifically for individuals using medication-assisted treatment, including Naltrexone.

  • Description: Offers support tailored to the unique experiences of those using MAT in their recovery.
  • How to Access: Visit mara-international.org for meeting information.
  • What to Expect: Meetings focus on the unique experiences of those using MAT in their recovery.
  • Benefits: Specialized support for MAT users, peer understanding of Naltrexone use.

Local Treatment Center Support Groups

Many addiction treatment centers offer support groups specifically for patients using Naltrexone or other forms of MAT.

  • Description: These groups often integrate medical insights with peer support.
  • How to Access: Contact local addiction treatment centers or ask your healthcare provider for recommendations.
  • What to Expect: Groups may be led by healthcare professionals and focus on Naltrexone-specific issues.
  • Benefits: Specialized support, often integrated with medical care.

Online Support Groups and Communities

Online support groups and communities provide accessible, often 24/7 support for Naltrexone users. These platforms can be especially valuable for those who have mobility issues, live in remote areas, or prefer the anonymity of online interaction.

SMART Recovery Online

SMART Recovery offers a robust online community in addition to their in-person meetings.

  • Description: Provides access to SMART Recovery's tools and techniques from the comfort of your home.
  • How to Access: Visit smartrecovery.org/community to register.
  • Features: 24/7 chat rooms, online meetings, message boards.
  • Benefits: Access to SMART Recovery tools and techniques from home.

In The Rooms

In The Rooms is a large online recovery community offering various support group meetings, including those welcoming MAT users.

  • Description: A global recovery community with a variety of meeting types and recovery resources.
  • How to Access: Sign up at intherooms.com.
  • Features: Video meetings, chat rooms, social networking features.
  • Benefits: Wide variety of meeting types, large and diverse community.

r/alcoholism_medication

This subreddit is dedicated to discussing medication-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder, including Naltrexone.

  • Description: A forum for sharing experiences and information about medication-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder.
  • How to Access: Visit reddit.com/r/alcoholism_medication.
  • Features: Discussion threads, personal experiences, peer support.
  • Benefits: Active community, wealth of personal experiences with Naltrexone.

Soberistas

Soberistas is an online community focused on women's recovery from alcohol addiction, including those using Naltrexone.

  • Description: A women-focused community for those seeking to live an alcohol-free life.
  • How to Access: Sign up at soberistas.com.
  • Features: Forums, blogs, chat rooms.
  • Benefits: Supportive environment for women, discussions on various recovery methods.

The Sinclair Method (TSM) Forums

For those using Naltrexone via the Sinclair Method, these forums provide specialized support.

  • Description: A community dedicated to discussing and supporting the use of Naltrexone through the Sinclair Method.
  • How to Access: Visit optionssavelives.freeforums.net.
  • Features: Discussion boards, personal logs, informational resources.
  • Benefits: Focused support for TSM users, experienced community members.

SoberRecovery Forums

SoberRecovery hosts a large online community with forums dedicated to various aspects of addiction and recovery.

  • Description: A longstanding online recovery community covering a wide range of addiction and recovery topics.
  • How to Access: Register at soberrecovery.com/forums.
  • Features: Discussion boards on various topics, including medication-assisted recovery.
  • Benefits: Long-standing community, diverse recovery experiences.

Counseling Options Complementing Naltrexone Treatment

Professional counseling can significantly enhance the effectiveness of Naltrexone treatment by addressing psychological aspects of addiction and providing personalized strategies for recovery.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely-used therapeutic approach that can help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with substance use.

  • Description: Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
  • How to Access: Ask your healthcare provider for a referral or search for CBT therapists in your area.
  • Benefits: Helps develop coping strategies, addresses underlying issues contributing to addiction.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)

MET is designed to help individuals resolve ambivalence about engaging in treatment and stopping substance use.

  • Description: Aims to evoke rapid, internally motivated change rather than guiding the patient through recovery steps.
  • How to Access: Ask your addiction treatment provider about MET options.
  • Benefits: Can increase engagement in treatment, strengthen motivation for change.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT can be particularly helpful for individuals struggling with emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships alongside addiction.

  • Description: Teaches skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
  • How to Access: Search for DBT therapists or programs in your area.
  • Benefits: Helps manage intense emotions, improves relationships, reduces self-destructive behaviors.

Family Therapy

Family therapy can help repair and strengthen family relationships that may have been strained by addiction.

  • Description: Involves family members in the treatment process to address family dynamics that may contribute to or be affected by substance use.
  • How to Access: Ask your treatment provider about family therapy options or search for family therapists specializing in addiction.
  • Benefits: Improves family communication, addresses enabling behaviors, strengthens support system.

Group Therapy

Group therapy provides a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and learn from others in similar situations.

  • Description: Involves regular meetings with a group of individuals in recovery, facilitated by a trained therapist.
  • How to Access: Many addiction treatment centers and mental health clinics offer group therapy sessions.
  • Benefits: Peer support, opportunities to learn from others' experiences, reduced feelings of isolation.

Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP)

MBRP integrates mindfulness practices with cognitive-behavioral relapse prevention strategies.

  • Description: Teaches mindfulness skills to help individuals cope with cravings and negative emotions that can lead to relapse.
  • How to Access: Look for MBRP programs or therapists trained in this approach in your area.
  • Benefits: Increases awareness of triggers, develops healthy coping mechanisms, reduces automatic reactive behaviors.

Telemedicine Counseling Options

Telemedicine has made it possible to access counseling services remotely, which can be particularly helpful for those with transportation or mobility issues.

  • Description: Counseling sessions conducted via video call, phone, or text messaging.
  • How to Access: Platforms like BetterHelp, Talkspace, or local providers offering telehealth services.
  • Benefits: Convenient access to therapy, ability to connect with specialists regardless of location.

Educational Resources for Naltrexone Patients

Educating yourself about Naltrexone and addiction recovery can empower you in your treatment journey. Here are some valuable resources for learning more:

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

NIDA provides comprehensive, research-based information on drug abuse and addiction.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

SAMHSA is a U.S. government agency that provides information, services, and research on substance abuse and mental health.

MedlinePlus - Naltrexone

MedlinePlus provides consumer-friendly medical information about Naltrexone from the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

The Sinclair Method (TSM) Resource Center

This resource center provides information on using Naltrexone according to the Sinclair Method for alcohol use disorder.

Addiction Center - Naltrexone

Addiction Center provides comprehensive information on Naltrexone and its use in addiction treatment.

FDA Medication Guide for Naltrexone

The official FDA guide provides essential information for patients using Naltrexone.

  • How to Access: Available through your pharmacist or at fda.gov.
  • Key Information: Proper use, side effects, warnings.
  • Benefits: Authoritative information directly from the regulatory agency.

Recovery Research Institute

The Recovery Research Institute provides accessible information about addiction recovery.

Reading about others' experiences and expert insights can provide valuable perspective and knowledge for your recovery journey. Here are some recommended books related to Naltrexone use and addiction recovery:

"The Cure for Alcoholism" by Roy Eskapa

  • Description: Explores the use of Naltrexone and the Sinclair Method for treating alcohol use disorder.
  • Key Topics: Science behind Naltrexone for alcohol use disorder, implementation of the Sinclair Method.
  • Benefits: Detailed explanation of how Naltrexone works in alcohol addiction treatment.

"Beyond Addiction" by Jeffrey Foote et al.

  • Description: Guide for families dealing with addiction, includes information on medication-assisted treatment.
  • Key Topics: Practical strategies for supporting a loved one in recovery, understanding of various treatment approaches.
  • Benefits: Helpful for both patients and their support systems in understanding the recovery process.

"Unbroken Brain" by Maia Szalavitz

  • Description: Explores addiction as a learning disorder and discusses various treatment approaches.
  • Key Topics: New perspective on understanding addiction, exploration of different recovery methods.
  • Benefits: Offers a fresh, science-based view on addiction and recovery.

"The Craving Mind" by Judson Brewer

  • Description: Examines the mechanisms of habit formation and addiction from a mindfulness perspective.
  • Key Topics: Mindfulness techniques for managing cravings, neuroscience of addiction.
  • Benefits: Provides practical mindfulness strategies that can complement Naltrexone treatment.

"In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts" by Gabor Maté

  • Description: Explores the nature of addiction and various treatment approaches.
  • Key Topics: Compassionate look at addiction, discussion of various treatment methods including medication-assisted treatments.
  • Benefits: Offers a holistic view of addiction and recovery, including biological and social factors.

Helplines and Emergency Support Services

Having access to immediate support can be crucial in maintaining recovery. Here are some helplines and emergency support services:

SAMHSA's National Helpline

  • Description: 24/7 information service for individuals and families facing mental health and/or substance use disorders.
  • How to Access: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline.
  • Services Offered: Referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

  • Description: 24/7 crisis support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts.
  • How to Access: Call 1-800-273-8255 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
  • Services Offered: Immediate crisis support, referrals to local resources.

Crisis Text Line

  • Description: 24/7 text-based crisis support.
  • How to Access: Text HOME to 741741 or visit crisistextline.org.
  • Services Offered: Immediate support via text, crisis intervention.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine

  • Description: Information, resource referrals, and support for people living with mental health conditions and their loved ones.
  • How to Access: Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or email [email protected]. Visit nami.org/help.
  • Services Offered: Peer-support, information on local NAMI programs.

Partnership to End Addiction Helpline

  • Description: Support for parents and caregivers concerned about a loved one's substance use.
  • How to Access: Call 1-855-378-4373 or text 55753. Visit drugfree.org/get-support/helpline.
  • Services Offered: Peer support from trained specialists, help navigating treatment options.

Your Prescribing Doctor or Treatment Center

  • Description: The medical professional who prescribed your Naltrexone or your treatment center can provide support and guidance.
  • How to Access: Use the contact information provided by your healthcare provider.
  • Services Offered: Personalized medical advice, ability to adjust treatment if needed.

Local Emergency Services

  • Description: For immediate, life-threatening emergencies.
  • How to Access: Dial 911 in the United States (or the appropriate emergency number in your country).
  • Services Offered: Immediate emergency response.

Mobile Apps for Recovery Support

Mobile apps can provide on-the-go support, tracking, and resources for individuals in recovery. Here are some apps that can complement your Naltrexone treatment:

Sober Time - Sobriety Counter

  • Description: Tracks sobriety time, provides motivational quotes and a community forum.
  • How to Access: Download from your device's app store.
  • Key Features: Visual sobriety tracker, community support, motivational tools.

I Am Sober

  • Description: Sobriety tracking app with pledges, motivation, and community features.
  • How to Access: Available on iOS and Android app stores.
  • Key Features: Daily motivations, milestone tracking, community support.

Nomo - Sobriety Clocks

  • Description: Sobriety tracking app with multiple clock feature for various habits.
  • How to Access: Download from app stores.
  • Key Features: Track multiple recovery goals, share progress with accountability partners.

Calm Harm

  • Description: App designed to help resist self-harm urges, useful for managing cravings.
  • How to Access: Free download from app stores.
  • Key Features: Distraction techniques, relaxation exercises, activity log.

Recovery Path

  • Description: Comprehensive recovery support app with tracking, journaling, and resources.
  • How to Access: Download from app stores.
  • Key Features: Daily check-ins, trigger tracking, personalized insights.

Podcasts About Addiction Recovery and Treatment

Podcasts can provide a convenient way to learn about addiction recovery and stay motivated. Here are some podcasts that may be helpful for individuals using Naltrexone:

The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return

  • Description: Covers various aspects of addiction and recovery, including medication-assisted treatments.
  • How to Access: Available on major podcast platforms.
  • Key Features: Expert interviews, personal stories, current addiction research.

Recovery Elevator

  • Description: Focuses on alcohol addiction recovery, often discussing various treatment methods.
  • How to Access: Find on popular podcast apps or at recoveryelevator.com.
  • Key Features: Supportive community, personal recovery stories.

The Bubble Hour

  • Description: Interviews with people in recovery from alcohol use disorder.
  • How to Access: Available on major podcast platforms.
  • Key Features: Relatable stories, focus on women in recovery.

Addiction Unlimited Podcast

  • Description: Covers various addiction topics, including medication-assisted treatment.
  • How to Access: Find on popular podcast apps.
  • Key Features: Practical recovery tips, expert interviews.

SMART Recovery Podcasts

  • Description: Official podcast of SMART Recovery, covering their approach to addiction recovery.
  • How to Access: Available on the SMART Recovery website and major podcast platforms.
  • Key Features: Science-based approach, tools for recovery.

Naltrexone Patient Assistance Programs

For individuals who may struggle with the cost of Naltrexone, patient assistance programs can provide financial support:

Vivitrol® Co-pay Savings Program

  • Description: Offers co-pay assistance for eligible patients using Vivitrol (injectable Naltrexone).
  • How to Access: Visit vivitrol.com/affordability for eligibility and enrollment information.
  • Benefits: Can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for Vivitrol.

NeedyMeds

  • Description: Nonprofit organization that provides information on assistance programs for many medications, including Naltrexone.
  • How to Access: Visit needymeds.org and search for Naltrexone.
  • Benefits: Comprehensive database of patient assistance programs and resources.

RxAssist Patient Assistance Program Center

  • Description: Database of patient assistance programs for various medications.
  • How to Access: Visit rxassist.org and search for Naltrexone programs.
  • Benefits: Information on manufacturer programs and other assistance options.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance

  • Description: Helps qualifying patients without prescription drug coverage get the medicines they need.
  • How to Access: Visit pparx.org or call 1-888-4PPA-NOW.
  • Benefits: Connects patients with assistance programs they may qualify for.

Support for Family and Friends

Support for the loved ones of individuals in recovery is crucial. These resources offer help for family and friends:

Nar-Anon Family Groups

  • Description: Support group for friends and family members of individuals with substance use disorders.
  • How to Access: Find meetings at nar-anon.org.
  • Benefits: Peer support, coping strategies for living with a loved one in recovery.

Al-Anon Family Groups

  • Description: Support for anyone affected by someone else's drinking.
  • How to Access: Find meetings at al-anon.org.
  • Benefits: Shared experiences, strength, and hope among members.

SMART Recovery Family & Friends

  • Description: Support program for those who have a loved one with addiction issues.
  • How to Access: Find meetings at smartrecovery.org/family.
  • Benefits: Tools to help both the loved one and the family member.

Learn to Cope

  • Description: Peer-led support network for families dealing with addiction and recovery.
  • How to Access: Visit learn2cope.org for meeting information and resources.
  • Benefits: Education on substance use disorders, overdose prevention training.

Vocational and Educational Support

Recovery often involves rebuilding various aspects of life, including career and education. These resources can help:

SAMHSA's Supported Employment Evidence-Based Practices Kit

  • Description: Provides information on supported employment programs for individuals in recovery.
  • How to Access: Download from store.samhsa.gov.
  • Benefits: Guidelines for implementing vocational support in recovery programs.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services

  • Description: State-run programs offering employment support for individuals with disabilities, including those in recovery.
  • How to Access: Search for your state's vocational rehabilitation services online.
  • Benefits: Job training, placement services, adaptive equipment if needed.

Federal Student Aid Eligibility for Students with Criminal Convictions

  • Description: Information on federal student aid eligibility for individuals with past drug convictions.
  • How to Access: Visit studentaid.gov for current policies.
  • Benefits: Clarification on eligibility for educational financial assistance.

Individuals in recovery may face legal challenges. These resources offer guidance and support:

Legal Action Center

  • Description: Nonprofit law and policy organization fighting discrimination against people with histories of addiction.
  • How to Access: Visit lac.org for resources and information.
  • Benefits: Know-your-rights resources, policy advocacy.

National Association of Drug Court Professionals

  • Description: Information on drug courts, which offer treatment-based alternatives to incarceration.
  • How to Access: Visit nadcp.org for resources and local drug court information.
  • Benefits: Information on alternative sentencing options focused on treatment.

Holistic and Complementary Approaches

Many individuals find that complementary approaches enhance their recovery journey. Here are some resources for exploring these options:

Yoga of 12-Step Recovery

  • Description: Program combining yoga and 12-step principles.
  • How to Access: Find classes at y12sr.com.
  • Benefits: Mind-body approach to recovery, stress reduction.

Refuge Recovery

  • Description: Buddhist-inspired approach to recovery.
  • How to Access: Find meetings and resources at refugerecovery.org.
  • Benefits: Mindfulness-based recovery support, meditation practices.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • Description: Government resource on complementary health approaches.
  • How to Access: Visit nccih.nih.gov for information.
  • Benefits: Evidence-based information on various complementary health approaches.

Continuing Care and Relapse Prevention

Ongoing support is crucial for maintaining long-term recovery. These resources focus on continuing care:

SMART Recovery Toolbox

  • Description: Online collection of self-help tools and exercises.
  • How to Access: Available at smartrecovery.org/smart-recovery-toolbox.
  • Benefits: Practical tools for maintaining recovery and preventing relapse.

Addiction Recovery Guide

  • Description: Comprehensive online resource for addiction treatment and recovery.
  • How to Access: Visit addictionrecoveryguide.org.
  • Benefits: Information on various recovery approaches, including continuing care.

My Recovery Plan (SAMHSA)

  • Description: Tool for creating a personalized recovery plan.
  • How to Access: Download from store.samhsa.gov.
  • Benefits: Structured approach to planning ongoing recovery support.

Conclusion

Recovery with Naltrexone is a journey, and having a strong support system can make all the difference. The resources listed here offer a range of options to support your recovery, from peer support groups and professional counseling to educational materials and practical tools. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're just starting your journey with Naltrexone or have been in recovery for some time, there are always resources available to support your continued growth and healing.

Glossary

Naltrexone
An opioid antagonist used to treat alcohol and opioid dependence by blocking the euphoric effects of these substances.
Opioid Antagonist
A type of drug that blocks opioid receptors, preventing the effects of opioids and often used to treat opioid overdose and dependence.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
A treatment approach for substance use disorders that combines medications, such as naltrexone, with counseling and behavioral therapies.
Recovery
A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.
Addiction
A chronic disorder characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences, leading to long-term changes in brain function and behavior.
Substance Use Disorder
A condition in which the use of one or more substances leads to a clinically significant impairment or distress.
Relapse Prevention
Strategies and treatments designed to help individuals avoid returning to substance use after a period of abstinence.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
A type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to mental health issues or substance use.
The Sinclair Method (TSM)
A treatment approach for alcohol use disorder involving the use of naltrexone before drinking to gradually reduce cravings and consumption.
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
A counseling approach designed to strengthen a person’s motivation and commitment to change, often used in substance use disorder treatment.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
A type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that emphasizes mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, often used in addiction treatment.
Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP)
A treatment approach that integrates mindfulness practices with cognitive-behavioral relapse prevention strategies.
Telemedicine
The use of technology, such as video conferencing, to provide medical care and consultations remotely.
Harm Reduction
A set of strategies aimed at minimizing the negative consequences of drug use, without necessarily requiring complete abstinence.
Abstinence
The complete avoidance of alcohol or drug use, often the goal in the treatment of addiction.
Craving
A strong desire or urge for a substance, such as alcohol or opioids, which can be a key factor in addiction and relapse.
Trigger
A stimulus, such as a situation, emotion, or memory, that can lead to cravings and potential relapse in individuals recovering from addiction.
Co-occurring disorders
The presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in the same individual, requiring integrated treatment approaches.
Dual Diagnosis
The co-occurrence of a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder, which requires integrated treatment addressing both conditions.

References

Support and Resources for Naltrexone Patients

Online Support Groups and Communities

Counseling Options Complementing Naltrexone Treatment

Educational Resources for Naltrexone Patients

Recommended Books for Naltrexone Patients

Helplines and Emergency Support Services

Mobile Apps for Recovery Support

Podcasts About Addiction Recovery and Treatment

Naltrexone Patient Assistance Programs

Support for Family and Friends

Vocational and Educational Support

Legal Support Resources

Holistic and Complementary Approaches

Continuing Care and Relapse Prevention