alcohol addiction Archives - Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

How long does alcohol withdrawal last?

Posted on April 15, 2026April 30, 2026 by Steve Sarin

The acute phase of alcohol withdrawal typically lasts between five and seven days, with symptoms reaching their most intense point between 24 and 72 hours after your last drink.

While the physical timeline follows a set medical path, using medication-assisted treatment in Denver ensures that the most difficult phases are managed safely and with much less discomfort. When you’re wondering how long alcohol withdrawal lasts, it’s a week-long process of your body finding its balance again.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR) offers the expert outpatient support needed to navigate this timeline without the fear of facing it alone.

The First 24 Hours: The Body Starts to Recalibrate

The first day after you stop drinking is often when the brain begins to react to the absence of alcohol. Because alcohol has a sedative effect, your central nervous system can become hyperactive when it’s removed all of a sudden.

Most people start feeling the first signs of withdrawal within 6 to 12 hours.
You might notice shaky hands, a racing heart, or a sudden spike in anxiety.
Common issues during this window include trouble sleeping and an upset stomach.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism notes that this phase is essentially a chemical “rebound” in your nervous system.
Having a medical team check your vitals early can help prevent these symptoms from getting worse.

Early support is so important because your brain is dealing with a significant shift in chemistry. As you look into how long alcohol withdrawal lasts, remember that the first 24 hours are the foundation for the rest of your week.

Our Denver team focuses on keeping you stable and comfortable so you can move into the next phase with confidence.

The 48 to 72 Hour Peak: Managing the Critical Window

The period between the second and third day is usually the most challenging part of the entire process. This is when the risk of serious medical complications is at its highest, which is why professional supervision is so vital.

You may experience a spike in blood pressure or a faster heart rate during this time.
Serious risks like seizures or delirium tremens (DTs) most often occur in this 48 to 72-hour window.
Mental confusion or even mild hallucinations can happen as the brain tries to find its footing.
Using medication-assisted treatment in Denver can significantly lower the risk of these dangerous neurological spikes.
This is the phase where most people require the most frequent clinical check-ins to stay safe.

This peak is the primary reason why doctors advise against quitting “cold turkey” at home. The physical intensity is much easier to handle when you have a medical safety net. Our outpatient detox protocols are designed to dampen these symptoms, making the hardest days of the week manageable and safe.

Days 5 Through 7: Moving Toward Stability

By the five-day mark, the most intense physical symptoms usually begin to fade. Your body has worked hard to clear the alcohol, but your brain chemistry is still adjusting to the change.

Most physical tremors and nausea typically settle down by the end of the first week.
While the “acute” physical crisis is over, you might start feeling more irritable or tired.
Some people begin to notice Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) at this point.
These lingering psychological effects, like mood swings or cravings, can last for a few weeks.
Continuing outpatient support helps you stay on track as physical symptoms subside.

Understanding how long alcohol withdrawal lasts means looking at the full picture. While the first week focuses on physical safety, the following weeks focus on emotional health.

We help our Denver clients through this transition by providing the tools they need to handle the mental shifts that follow a successful detox.

Comparing Withdrawal Stages and Clinical Needs

This table gives a general overview of what to expect as you move through the different phases of the withdrawal process.

Phase	Timeframe	What it Feels Like	Medical Risk Level
Early Stage	6 – 24 Hours	Anxiety, tremors, and trouble sleeping	Low to Moderate
The Peak	24 – 72 Hours	High heart rate, seizure risk, confusion	High (Critical)
Stabilization	3 – 7 Days	Physical symptoms start to ease up	Moderate
Long-term	1 Week+	Cravings and changing mood patterns	Maintenance

Why a Denver Recovery Plan Makes a Difference

Trying to time the withdrawal process on your own can be stressful and dangerous. Accessing specialized care right here in Colorado gives you a structured way to get through the week safely.

A clinical assessment can help you decide whether outpatient detox is the right fit for your medical history.
Using medication-assisted treatment in Denver helps calm the brain and reduce the intense urge to drink.
Outpatient care means you can stay in your own home while checking in with your medical team daily.
Data from SAMHSA shows that having a medical plan greatly increases the chances of finishing detox.
Our team at CMAR builds a plan that looks at both your physical vitals and your personal comfort.

We know that every person’s body reacts a bit differently. While the answer to how long alcohol withdrawal lasts follows a general rule, your experience is unique.

We provide the personalized medical monitoring needed to ensure you aren’t just getting through the week, but starting a whole new way of living.

alcohol medication assisted treatment denver

Ready to talk about a safe way forward?

The fear of how long alcohol withdrawal lasts is one of the biggest reasons people put off getting help. You don’t have to face that 72-hour peak by yourself. Our medical team is here to provide the safety net you need to get through the week and start feeling like yourself again.

You don’t need to wait for things to get worse before you reach out. A quick, confidential conversation can help you understand which level of support is right for you. Take the first step toward a safe, comfortable recovery with a simple conversation with CMAR at (855) 281-5588. Let’s start that path to recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does alcohol withdrawal last for a heavy drinker?

For someone who has been drinking heavily for a long time, the physical symptoms usually last about seven days. However, the psychological cravings and “brain fog” can stick around for several months. It’s really important for heavy drinkers to have medical support to prevent dangerous complications like seizures during that first week.

Can you safely quit drinking at home in Colorado?

Quitting “cold turkey” at home can be life-threatening because of the risk of seizures and delirium tremens. However, a supervised outpatient detox allows you to live at home while receiving medical care. Using medication-assisted treatment in Denver is the safest way to manage withdrawal symptoms without staying in a hospital.

When is the hardest part of withdrawal over?

Most people find that the first 72 hours are the most difficult. Once you pass the three-day mark, the risk of serious medical emergencies drops significantly. After the first week, you’ll likely feel much better physically, though you may still experience some emotional ups and downs.

What happens after the first week of no alcohol?

After seven days, your body is mostly clear of alcohol, and your physical health starts to improve. This is often when the “mental” work of recovery begins. You might feel extra tired or have trouble focusing, but continued outpatient therapy can help you work through these feelings as your brain chemistry balances out.

What Is Outpatient Detox?

Posted on April 11, 2026April 30, 2026 by Steve Sarin

Outpatient detox is safe for individuals with mild to moderate alcohol dependence who have a stable home environment and no history of severe withdrawal complications. When researching “what is outpatient detox”, you’ll find it involves medical supervision and medication-assisted treatment in Denver to manage symptoms while you live at home.

This approach allows you to maintain your professional and personal responsibilities while receiving clinical support to clear your system.

Safety at CMAR is ensured through a comprehensive clinical assessment that determines your physical and psychological readiness for this level of care.

Clinical Criteria for Outpatient Eligibility

Medical directors use specific criteria to ensure that a patient can safely detox without 24-hour residential supervision. These guidelines are based on the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) standards for levels of care.

Low risk of severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures or delirium tremens.
Absence of acute co-occurring medical conditions that require hospital monitoring.
A supportive and drug-free living environment in the Denver metro area.
Reliable transportation to attend daily or frequent clinical check-ins.
High level of motivation and a clear understanding of the detox protocol.

Understanding the “what is outpatient detox” question requires recognizing that it’s a medical intervention, not just a lifestyle choice.

Our clinicians at CMAR prioritize your safety by conducting a thorough review of your substance use history.

This ensures that every patient we admit into our outpatient program is medically suited for the environment.

The Components of a Clinical Assessment

Before starting a program, you’ll undergo a detailed evaluation to map out your specific medical needs. This process is the foundation of any safe outpatient detox plan.

Comprehensive physical exam to check vital signs and overall organ function.
Detailed history of substance use, including frequency, duration, and past quit attempts.
Mental health screening to identify any underlying anxiety or depression.
Blood tests to assess liver and kidney function before prescribing medications.
Review of current medications to prevent any dangerous drug interactions.

This assessment is designed to remove uncertainty by providing a clear medical roadmap. It allows our team to tailor the outpatient detox process to your body’s unique chemistry and withdrawal patterns.

By focusing on the individual rather than a generic template, we enhance the safety and effectiveness of the withdrawal phase.

Why Medication-Assisted Treatment in Denver Enhances Safety

Medication is a critical tool in managing the discomfort and risks associated with alcohol withdrawal. Utilizing medication-assisted treatment in Denver allows clinicians to stabilize your brain chemistry during the most difficult first few days.

Prevents the dangerous neurological rebound that can lead to withdrawal seizures.
Reduces intense physical cravings that often lead to early relapse.
Manages secondary symptoms such as insomnia, nausea, and tremors.
Increases the likelihood that a patient will successfully complete the detox phase.
Provides a bridge to long-term therapeutic recovery programs.

This clinical approach ensures that the “stop signal” in the brain is supported by science rather than just willpower.

It transforms the detox experience from a painful struggle into a managed medical process.

Our Denver-based medical team monitors your response to these medications closely to ensure optimal dosing and safety.

Comparing Detox Settings and Safety Levels

The choice between inpatient and outpatient care depends entirely on the severity of the dependence and your medical history. The following table provides a general comparison of how these services are delivered.

Feature	Outpatient Detox	Intensive Outpatien Detox
Medical Supervision	Daily or frequent check ins	Regular clinical oversight
Living Arrangement	Your own home	Remain at home
Cost	More affordable and flexible	More affordable than inpatient
Best For	Mild to moderate withdrawal risk	Mild to moderate withdrawal risk with a stable
Integration	Minimal life disruption	Maintain work, family, and daily responsibilities

The Role of Ongoing Clinical Monitoring

Outpatient detox is only the first step in a larger recovery journey, and safety depends on what happens after the initial withdrawal. Constant monitoring during the first week ensures that any unexpected symptoms are addressed immediately.

Daily vital sign checks to monitor heart rate and blood pressure levels.
Regular updates to the medication plan based on symptom severity.
Immediate access to medical staff if withdrawal symptoms escalate.
Coordination with therapists to begin addressing the psychological roots of use.
Scheduled breathalyzer or toxicology screens to maintain accountability.

By staying connected to a professional team in Colorado, you reduce the risks associated with trying to stop alone.

This structure provides the necessary safety net for those who want to reclaim their health while staying integrated in their daily lives. It combines the clinical excellence of a hospital with the comfort of your own home.

Is Outpatient Detox the Right Move for You?

The transition to a sober life begins with a single, informed decision about your safety. If you are ready to stop but aren’t sure which setting is appropriate, a professional evaluation can provide the answer. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the most effective and least restrictive environment for your needs.

There is no reason to guess when it comes to your medical safety and long-term health. A quick phone assessment can tell you which setting is right for your situation, and it is completely free. Take the first step toward reclaiming your authority by calling CMAR at (855) 281-5588 to discuss our Denver-based programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is outpatient detox compared to inpatient?

Outpatient detox allows you to live at home while visiting a clinic for medical check-ins and medication management. Inpatient detox requires you to stay at a facility for 24-hour monitoring. When asking what outpatient detox is, it’s important to remember that it is designed for those with low to moderate medical risks who have high support at home.

Is medication-assisted treatment in Denver covered by insurance?

Most major insurance plans, including many Colorado-based providers, cover medication-assisted treatment as it is considered an essential health benefit. This helps make recovery more accessible and reduces the financial burden on the patient. Our team can help you verify your benefits to see how they apply to our Denver services.

How do I know if I am safe for outpatient detox?

A licensed medical professional must determine your safety through a formal clinical assessment. They look at your drinking history, previous withdrawal experiences, and current physical health. If you have a high risk of seizures or a history of delirium tremens, they will likely recommend an inpatient setting for your protection.

Can I work while doing an outpatient detox?

Yes, many people find they can continue working or attending school if their withdrawal symptoms are managed effectively. However, your medical director may suggest a few days of rest during the peak withdrawal window to ensure your safety. The flexibility of outpatient care is one of its primary benefits for busy professionals.

Effective Therapies for Alcohol Addiction

Posted on May 4, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When a person becomes addicted to alcohol, getting help is critical to their health and well-being. While recovery is not always easy, there are many counseling programs geared toward alcohol dependence that can help. Understanding therapy for alcohol addiction can make choosing which type of program to enter easier.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we know how challenging it can be to stop drinking. We offer alcohol addiction treatment in Colorado that can help. Learn more by calling 833.448.0127 today.

What Constitutes Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol-related issues have become some of the most significant public health issues in the United States. While many people might struggle with their drinking at some point in their life, that doesn’t mean they have an alcohol use disorder.

An alcohol use disorder is characterized by the following:

The individual feels like they have to drink – Compulsive cravings mean they can’t control their consumption. The individual is unable to stop drinking once they’ve started, even though they may try.
They can’t control how much they drink – People living with alcohol addiction might be able to limit when they drink to non-working or non-school hours, but once started, they find it hard to moderate the amount of alcohol consumed.
They feel bad when they can’t drink – Withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and depression can occur when someone stops drinking.
They develop a tolerance – To get the same level of satisfaction, people with an alcohol use disorder may need to drink more and more.

For millions of adults, alcohol use turns into an addiction that they must overcome. Fortunately, targeted therapy has been shown to help most people that seek out help for an alcohol use disorder, with many remaining in recovery for the rest of their lives.

How Alcohol Addiction Therapy Can Help

Most therapists utilize various behavioral therapy modalities, and there are many evidence-based treatment options that have proven effective for addiction. Therapy for alcohol addiction helps change a person’s behaviors through education, analysis, planning, tool development, and exposure. These methods are used to accomplish the following:

Education – Understanding behavior, rewards, and consequences can help clients plan and create goals toward recovery.
Analysis – Reflecting on what caused the addictive behavior and what is currently reinforcing it can help clients avoid triggers and relapses.
Tools – Different tools to help clients relax, center themselves, avoid challenging moments, and stay on the path to recovery are explored.
Exposure – Impulses to use are reduced as exposure to situations related to the addiction is worked through.

Every person entering alcohol addiction treatment will benefit from a unique mix of therapies. Addiction treatment specialists conduct thorough assessments to help clients understand their cravings, symptoms, triggers, and goals so they can develop effective therapy plans.

Effective Therapies for Alcohol Addiction

Most often, a combined behavioral therapy approach is used in therapy for alcohol addiction. While 12-step programs are very popular, the focus here is on individual treatment. This can include integrated cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement, dialectical behavior therapy, EMDR, and other techniques. Below are the most commonly used therapies for alcohol addiction that have proven effective.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is used to reduce behaviors connected to alcohol abuse. By anticipating situations that can trigger use and developing strategies that help clients cope, they can learn to avoid damaging behavior. CBT transfers to real-life situations well and is useful for alcohol use disorders.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT helps clients regulate their feelings, develop tools to cope, and accept their situation. It helps clients deal with intrusive thoughts and overcome them. Relaxation techniques such as meditation and breathing techniques are beneficial. Using DBT reduces recovery dropout rates and is helpful for co-occurring disorders.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

When trauma is involved as one of the main reasons behind alcohol use, EMDR is especially helpful. It reduces the stress that stems from the traumatic memories and targets the symptoms of PTSD. It teaches the brain to reframe the memories as less negative so that the client can cope more effectively.

Motivational Therapy

Motivational therapy is widely used in rehab. It is based on finding the motivation to get treatment, incentives for refusing alcohol as a coping mechanism, and behavioral therapy techniques to ensure recovery. By conducting motivational interviews, doubts surrounding quitting alcohol use are reduced, and positive changes are encouraged. It is especially helpful for alcohol and nicotine addiction.

Other Methods

Other addiction therapy methods might involve yoga, meditation, art or music therapy, wellness and nutrition, contingency management, or family therapy.

Alcohol Addiction Therapy at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, clients can benefit from therapists who vary their treatment approach based on both proven techniques and behavioral insights. Understanding the different ways to treat alcohol use disorder means that we are able to provide a complete recovery to clients. Options such as telehealth and outpatient are available to ensure everyone can get the help they need. Visit our website or contact us at 833.448.0127 for more information.

What You Learn During Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Posted on April 20, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Alcoholism can take so much from you and your future. Yet, in alcohol addiction treatment, you learn how to embrace life and heal again. If you are unsure if you need a recovery program like this or you’re unsure how it can help you, make the call. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we are helping people to thrive in treatment. Contact us at 833.448.0127 today to learn how our alcohol addiction treatment near you can help you or a loved one live a healthy, happy life.

What Happens in Alcohol Addiction Treatment?

Men and women with alcoholism face several challenges to their health and mental well-being. In alcohol addiction treatment, the goal is to stop the ongoing damage and to start the healing process for both your body and brain. There is a lot to learn to achieve this. After providing an assessment to determine what your needs are, our recovery program in Colorado begins for you. You’ll learn a great deal, including:

Why you have alcoholism
How to manage the underlying causes of alcohol misuse
How drug and alcohol addiction happens
What you need to do to improve your physical health
How to get support for mental health
How to get sober and stay sober long term

That sounds like a lot to learn, and there’s much more. The goal of alcohol addiction treatment is to ensure you have the right skills and tools to make better decisions for your future.

Learning How to Manage Alcoholism in Real Life

There’s no benefit to making alcohol addiction treatment seem easy. It’s a complex process. Once you get your addiction under control with medication, if available to you, the next step is to work with you to heal your brain. We can do that in several ways.

Controlling Negative Thoughts

One of the first steps of alcoholism treatment is controlling negative thought patterns, often leading to poor decisions. You’ll learn to recognize these thoughts as they happen and then how to change them.

Living in the Moment

You’ll learn how to focus on what you can control at the moment. This is an essential concept for many men and women with alcoholism because it can alleviate the stress and anxiety that often drives them to use alcohol.

Communication

You’ll learn how to communicate your needs, thoughts, and concerns. You’ll also learn how to get help when you need it, whether that is from your family or friends or even from a professional therapist.

Live a Sober Life

Another component of alcohol addiction treatment is giving you the tools to build a sober life. There may be relationships to heal or walk away from. You may need help getting back to work. You may need new skills.

How Can Our Colorado Recovery Program Help You?

When you’re faced with the challenges of alcoholism, you need to learn how to overcome them to rebuild your life. Our alcohol addiction treatment program is designed to do that for you. Located in Colorado, our recovery program is an individualized opportunity for you to work on healing your body, mind, and spirit from the damage alcoholism has created for you. We offer a range of programs to help you do that, including:

Our medication-assisted treatment programs also assist you in managing the physical cravings associated with alcohol use disorder. Our recovery program is designed to help you build new skills for living a life of sobriety and enhancing your overall well-being. We provide guidance and support in developing a comprehensive plan to enable you to live a healthier, more productive lifestyle after completing treatment. By utilizing our combination of evidence-based approaches, you can learn how to create new and healthier habits while still managing life’s challenges. Our goal is to help you find balance in recovery.

Invest in Your Future – Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today

Alcohol addiction treatment provides you with the comprehensive care you need to overcome your addiction and build a sober future. Alcoholism does not have to limit your future when you truly embrace treatment. Our recovery program in Colorado is designed to give you the tools you need to achieve improvements. To learn more, call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery today at 833.448.0127 or connect with us online.

Finding a Treatment Center for Alcohol Addiction in Thornton, CO

Posted on February 6, 2023 by cmarnew

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, you are in good company. Millions of Americans grapple with this form of substance abuse. Matters are complicated by the fact that alcohol is legal, easy to obtain, and its use is broadly socially accepted. Sadly, the chemical reality of alcohol is that it is also extremely habit-forming and has numerous serious impacts on physical, emotional, and mental health.

The good news is that, since alcohol addiction has been a widespread concern for decades and even centuries, doctors understand it well. Effective treatment is available to you or your loved one if you’re looking for help regaining sobriety and control of your life. Call 833.448.0127 or contact us online to speak to a staff member from Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. We’re located in Thornton, Colorado, on Fox Drive just north of West 88th Avenue. Reach out today for help finding alcohol addiction treatment near you.

Alcohol Poses an Especially Great Danger on Adams County Highways

As a recent news release by the Colorado Department of Transportation makes clear, problematic alcohol use is taking a major toll statewide. According to the Department, deaths due to drunk driving are especially troubling. In 2021, 255 lives were lost in accidents occurring involving DUI. Sadly, that number climbed to 271 in 2022. Adams County, where Thornton is located, ranked highest among all Colorado counties.¹

While the state is, fortunately, addressing the prevalence of DUI through a stricter enforcement period, the core of the issue is, of course, the disease of alcohol use disorder itself. It’s thus key for those living with alcohol dependence to seek professional help through an accredited recovery program like the one at Colorado Medication Assisted Treatment. Through proper care, and safe, monitored recovery, Coloradans can and must bring down the state’s traffic fatality numbers as well as other tragic impacts of alcohol use.

Signs that Alcohol Addiction May Be Present

Alcohol use disorder is a formal diagnosis with several specific requirements and different levels of severity. It’s worth noting that people may also struggle with alcohol dependence, informally called alcoholism, which may not warrant a formal diagnosis. In these cases, some form of treatment may still be advisable. Looking at alcohol use disorder specifically, a patient must have experienced at least two of the following symptoms for at least a year to receive the diagnosis:

Rising tolerance to alcohol with increases in the amount consumed to reach the same effect
Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and nausea when alcohol is absent for even a short period of time
Inability to reduce the amount of alcohol one consumes
Drinking a greater volume or for a longer period of time than intended
Experiencing extended illness as a result of excessive drinking
Loss of concentration because of alcohol cravings
Damage to everyday functioning, such as inability to succeed at school, keep a job, or provide for a family
Ongoing drinking in spite of issues it causes with family and friends
Reduced engagement with activities and hobbies that one used to enjoy
Getting into dangerous situations, such as unsafe sexual encounters or drunk driving, due to intoxication
Drinking even when one realizes it is worsening another health condition or creating negative symptoms like anxiety, blackouts, or depression

What Happens in Alcohol Addiction Treatment?

In a treatment program, alcohol addiction recovery may begin with medically assisted detox. In this first step of recovery, patients benefit from a doctor’s direct supervision and personalized care while their body purges the harmful substance and adapts to functioning without it. Doctors may administer medication that helps patients manage painful withdrawal symptoms during this period.

Next, those receiving alcohol addiction treatment typically engage with a range of services. Peer support can provide accountability and community, give patients concrete examples of how to cope with stress and triggers, and provide a sounding board for how to make amends with those whom their addiction has harmed. Coupled with family therapy, this social therapeutic model can help to heal relationships damaged by alcohol addiction and create a framework for lasting support in sobriety.

Patients coping with alcohol addiction can also strongly benefit from one-on-one therapy. Approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical-behavioral therapy help patients identify their triggers and learn to reframe negative thoughts. Creating a specific relapse prevention plan can also be a game-changer in the work of individual therapy for addiction recovery. Finally, individual therapy can provide vital dual diagnoses. This means it can identify and address underlying mental health disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder that may be present along with alcohol addiction.

Begin Healing from Alcohol Addiction Today at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

If you or a loved one is living with alcohol use disorder or another form of alcohol dependence, there’s no need to suffer alone. This health concern, while serious, is also common, and many effective treatments exist. Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Treatment today to learn about our effective programs. Our center is located just north of Denver in Thornton, CO, conveniently close to the Thornton Park-n-Ride. Our telehealth options may make it easier still to prioritize your recovery. Call 833.448.0127 or reach out online to learn more about our accredited alcohol treatment center and other programs.

Source:

1. Colorado Department of Transportation – Today CDOT kicks off first DUI enforcement period of 2023

The Misplaced Solution

Posted on January 24, 2022 by cmarnew

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Think about a moment in your life that you wanted to bask in. You found a sense of peace, joy, or harmony that you wanted to fully take in and appreciate. Perhaps it was catching up and laughing with an old friend, perhaps it was feeling the warm sun shining down on your skin as you sat on a tropical beach, or perhaps it was the excitement you felt in your team winning the big game. When we encounter these moments, there is a natural tendency to want them to last. We want to appreciate what is happening for us here and now, while also doing what we can to hold onto these wonderful feelings. However, what happens when unpleasant feelings arise?

When feelings of anxiety, sadness, loneliness, and stress show up, we have a natural tendency in the opposite direction. We want to make them go away as they may feel unpredictable, uncontrollable, and unbearable. We want more of the “good” feelings and less of the “bad” ones. Makes sense, right? I mean, who in their right mind wants to feel anxious?

While there are a variety of things we can do to avoid these unpleasant feelings, a particularly common one resides in alcohol and drug use. The use of alcohol and other drugs triggers chemical reactions in our brains that numb unpleasant feelings and boost the pleasurable ones, thus, producing a sense of relief. However, this sense of relief is only temporary. Like all things, it does not last.

The substance wears off, the chemical reaction subsides, and those unpleasant feelings reappear. Well, what happens when these feelings come back? When that sense of helplessness or powerlessness sets in again? You might think about how drinking alcohol or using drugs had previously made those feelings go away and think, ‘Hey, that worked last time! Why not do it again?’ This makes sense. Humans are excellent learners. When we encounter challenges, we look for solutions. In this case, alcohol and drug use seems like an effective solution to this discomfort. When we regularly rely on use to navigate these feelings, we cross into addiction.

With time and repeated use, our brain chemistry changes such that our drug of choice may feel like the only escape from unpleasant feelings. However, as I had mentioned before, the unpleasant feelings will always return. They are unavoidable. However, as we continue using to avoid said feelings, we wander further away from our ambitions, integrity, and sense of purpose. As we do this, the feelings of anxiety, sadness, loneliness, and stress grow. What initially seemed like a sound solution, turns out to have been a misplaced solution.
By Jonathan Fricke, MA[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

More Than Therapy

Posted on March 5, 2021 by cmarnew

As the opioid pandemic surges opioid treatment providers have begun expanding the services they offer. From case management to individual therapy to peer support, opioid treatment is evolving. But no program in Colorado has ever actually integrated treatment…until now!

CMAR is Colorado’s first program to develop a rehab program that offers on-site medication-assisted treatment to treat alcohol & opioid addiction. We built CMAR because we understand that too many opioid treatment providers just prescribe suboxone and send you on your way. That simply is not treatment.

Addiction cannot be treated with just a pill, because addiction impacts us, physically, psychologically, socially, and every other way you can imagine. So although medication is often necessary, but can never be the central guiding force. The central feature of effective treatment is therapeutic care, which provides psychoeducation, gives patients an opportunity to process emotional dysfunction, resolves trauma, reduces the impact of mental-health conditions, helps generate healthy coping mechanisms, and builds trust.

The most effective way to recovery from drug addiction, especially opioid addiction and alcoholism, is a combination of intensive outpatient treatment (IOP), medication management, family therapy and case management. That’s why at CMAR we don’t require that patients take Suboxone, Vivitrol, Sublocade or other opioid replacement or alcohol replacement medications. We simply require that patients engage in individual and group therapy, peer support and case management. We value medications so much that we are the only outpatient addiction treatment program in Colorado to carry a Controlled Substance License so that patients have immediate access to Suboxone inductions, Sublocade and Vivitrol shots and medication management. We just understand that what leads to lasting change starts with an addiction screening and addiction assessment that leads to an individualized plan that combines different amounts and approaches to the following approaches to addiction treatment: addiction therapy, mental health therapy, addiction therapy groups, alcoholism therapy groups, opioid addiction therapy, stimulant addiction therapy, mental health therapy groups, depression therapy groups, family systems therapy, family therapy to treat addiction, peer accountability, peer feedback, 12 step drug treatment, and similar treatments! Opioid Replacement Medications just don’t help resolve social, family, and peer, let alone individual problems.

How Medication-Assisted Treatment Works for Alcohol Addiction

Posted on January 30, 2021 by cmarnew

Substance abuse treatment needs to address your unique needs. For many people with alcohol addiction, a component of that therapy is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This is a method of helping your body to overcome the addiction withdrawal and cravings you feel so you can focus on the mental health challenges present. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our treatment program is designed to support you through this process.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

MAT is one of the substance abuse treatment options our team offers to those who are committed to full recovery. It is not meant to be a replacement for therapy or for working on improving your life. Used properly, these medications can work to eliminate your withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

When a person uses alcohol over an extended period of time, it is likely they will develop dependence. This is a condition in which the way the brain and body communicate changes thanks to the way alcohol triggers the function of neurotransmitters in the brain. Your body becomes dependent on alcohol to function and craves it. As that happens, it becomes harder and harder for you not to use. Medication-assisted treatment helps to trick the brain into believing the substance is here, reducing the risk of withdrawal.

When Can MAT Be Used for Alcohol Addiction?

When you come in to see our team to learn more about our substance abuse treatment, we’ll discuss the availability of MAT for your situation. There are many situations in which it may help you, including in these situations:

Long-term alcohol use
High amounts of alcohol use
Intense withdrawal symptoms when not using
Intense cravings
Relapse or overdose risks

MAT is helpful for a short period of time as your body adjusts to the lack of alcohol in your system. This process gives you the mental health stability you need so you can start to learn how to control your addiction and overcome it.

While we offer medication-assisted treatment, it is not the only component of your therapy. Our goal is to always provide you with the resources you need to truly change your life. That means rebuilding your mental health as well as your physical health.

Because of how challenging alcohol addiction is to overcome, the use of MAT is often encouraged. We offer a range of medications that can be helpful. This may include disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone. Your therapist and doctor will determine which medications are best suited for your specific needs and addiction.

How Can Medication-Assisted Treatment Help You?

Our goal in providing you with access to MAT is to help you overcome that initial withdrawal period. It allows you to gain confidence and some level of mental clarity. Then, you need to start working on the healing process. That incorporates many additional steps, including counseling with our dedicated team of professionals.

Substance abuse treatment is a complex process, but it can be very successful for you in the right environment. Our trusted team of counselors is available to talk to you about how we can help you overcome your addiction. We encourage you to learn more about our therapy options in total, including:

Get the Treatment You Need – Call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery Today

Is medication-assisted treatment right for you? You may not be sure if you need MAT or even substance abuse treatment. If alcohol is controlling your life, it’s time to change. Our team in Colorado has the tools and resources to help you. To learn more about our therapy options, call Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 or connect with us online today.