Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month: Breaking the Stigma & Finding Help

As January 1 ushers in a new year and fresh start, it also marks the beginning of Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month. This national event, sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is dedicated to raising awareness about addiction and the importance of treatment.

Substance Use Disorder: A Growing Problem

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex and chronic condition characterized by uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences. It can develop with any addictive substance, including alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, and prescription medications.

According to SAMHSA, nearly 49 million Americans aged 12 or older have a substance use disorder. Tragically, only about 1 in 4 of those who need treatment (or 24%) receive it.

Why Is Treatment Important?

Substance use disorder is a treatable condition. Professional, evidence-based treatment can help people stop using substances, improve their health, and rebuild their lives.

There are many different treatment options available, including:

• Medications for addiction treatment (MAT).
• Behavioral therapy.
• Support groups.
• Detoxification (medically assisted withdrawal).

Helping people better understand the available treatment options and how they can help is a key part of Treatment Month.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment, and the most effective treatment plans are tailored to meet the individual needs of each person.

Breaking the Stigma

One of the biggest barriers to treatment is stigma. Stigma is the negative attitude and discrimination that people with SUD often face. This stigma can prevent people from seeking help.

In 2023, the majority of adults with an SUD who did not get care (about 37 million people) did not seek treatment or think they needed it. Only 0.5% of adults with an SUD (or 189,000 people) actually sought treatment.

Breaking down the stigma that surrounds addiction treatment is a main goal of Treatment Month. It is important to remember that SUD is a disease, not a moral failing. People with SUD deserve compassion and support, not judgment.

Find Addiction Treatment in Mississippi

At Oxford Treatment Center, we are committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based treatment for SUD. Our inpatient drug and alcohol rehab in Mississippi offers different levels of addiction treatment designed to meet the individual needs of each patient.

Our compassionate and experienced staff will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to recover from addiction and live a healthy and fulfilling life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with SUD, please reach out for help and call us at . Our admissions navigators are available around the clock to take your call and answer any questions you may have about our programs, paying for rehab, using insurance to pay for rehab, and the treatment admissions process.

There is hope for recovery. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of people with SUD.