Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a serious, chronic medical condition—but recovery is possible with the right support. At Mental Health Associates of South Jersey, we’re dedicated to providing evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals facing opioid and other substance use disorders. Through medically informed assessment and modern, personalized treatment, we help patients regain control, stability, and hope.

Understanding Opioid Use Disorder

OUD is characterized by a compulsive need to use opioids, even when it leads to harmful consequences. This condition affects not only the brain’s reward system but also relationships, health, and daily functioning. Like other chronic illnesses, OUD requires long-term management and a supportive, individualized care plan.

How Opioid Use Disorder is Diagnosed

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. OUD is diagnosed using the DSM-5 criteria, which identify patterns of problematic opioid use that cause significant distress or impairment.

Core Diagnostic Criteria Include:

• Using opioids in larger amounts or for longer than intended
• Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use
• Cravings, tolerance, or withdrawal symptoms
• Neglect of responsibilities or increased time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from opioids

To meet the criteria, two or more symptoms must be present within a 12-month period.

Diagnostic Tools and Assessments

• Urine drug screens, saliva tests, and GC-MS confirm opioid presence in the body.
• Clinical evaluations explore co-occurring mental health conditions and medical complications.
• ASAM Criteria (American Society of Addiction Medicine) help assess severity and guide placement in appropriate levels of care.

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Successful treatment of OUD addresses the whole person—not just the addiction. We use a comprehensive, multimodal approach that integrates medication, therapy, and support systems to support long-term recovery.

Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

Methadone

• A full opioid agonist administered in specialized clinics
• Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing euphoria
• Proven to lower overdose risk, reduce illegal drug use, and improve social functioning

Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone®)

• A partial opioid agonist combined with naloxone to deter misuse
• Effective in stabilizing mood, reducing cravings, and promoting long-term recovery
• Available in outpatient settings, increasing accessibility for many patients

Naloxone (Narcan®)

• A life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses
• Rapidly restores breathing by blocking opioid receptors
• Essential for harm reduction and often prescribed as part of relapse prevention plans

Adjunctive Medications

• Clonidine and other non-opioid medications can help manage withdrawal symptoms during detox or early treatment.

Behavioral Therapies

Medications are most effective when paired with therapy that addresses the underlying psychological triggers and lifestyle factors contributing to substance use.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Helps patients identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping skills
• Enhances emotional regulation, stress management, and relapse prevention

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

• A patient-centered approach that helps individuals explore ambivalence about change
• Encourages internal motivation and commitment to recovery

Contingency Management

• Offers tangible rewards (e.g., vouchers or privileges) for positive behaviors such as clean drug tests
• Boosts treatment retention and goal achievement

Recovery Support Services

Peer Support Groups

• Programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide community-based support from individuals who have walked the same path
• Foster accountability, encouragement, and a sense of belonging

Social Services and Case Management

• Address practical challenges such as housing, employment, childcare, and transportation
• Reducing these stressors helps prevent relapse and supports sustainable recovery

Innovative and Emerging Therapies

Advances in neuroscience and clinical research are expanding the possibilities for treating substance use disorders.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

• A non-invasive neuromodulation technique
• Shows promise in reducing cravings and improving mood in individuals with treatment-resistant OUD

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy

• Early trials suggest psilocybin, when combined with guided therapy, may help individuals reprocess trauma and break compulsive behavioral patterns
• Not yet widely available but a potential future option for those with severe, persistent OUD

The Value of Integrated Care

The most effective treatment plans combine medications, therapy, and social support into a coordinated approach. This model addresses the full spectrum of needs: physical dependence, emotional regulation, mental health, and real-world stressors.

By treating OUD as a medical condition—not a moral failing—we create a path toward healing that is rooted in science, compassion, and respect.

When to Seek Help

Signs that it may be time to speak with a professional include:

• Ongoing opioid use despite negative consequences
• Withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop
• Using more opioids than intended
• Isolation from loved ones or loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities
• Multiple unsuccessful attempts to quit

A Message of Hope

Recovery is not only possible—it’s probable with the right support. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, evidence-based treatment can break the cycle of addiction and restore quality of life.

At Mental Health Associates of South Jersey, we’re here to walk beside you. From your first consultation through every stage of recovery, you’ll have a dedicated team working to help you thrive.

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Ready to Take the First Step?
Contact Mental Health Associates of South Jersey today for a confidential consultation and learn more about our personalized treatment plans for opioid and substance use disorders.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.