Local Rehab Shares How Life Looks After Opioids

Abingdon, VA – ReVIDA® Recovery recently published an article that shares how life after opioids can look for their patients. They offer resources and tips for those who are new in recovery as well as those who are integrating back into society.

“One of the first stages of finding recovery from opioid use disorder is seeking treatment. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) along with therapies and skill-building classes are the basis of treatment and where recovery begins. Opioid use disorder is a mental health condition and oftentimes coincides with conditions such as depression and anxiety. Treatment programs for opioid use disorder can address these conditions and provide proper medical and emotional care. This can help you discover where your opioid use disorder stemmed from and how to cope moving forward.

"Treatment for opioid use disorder does not have a specific timeline. Many MAT programs last as long as the patient needs, which can vary between months, years, and even a lifetime. It is important to attend support groups and therapies regularly, especially early in recovery. This increases the chances of success and prevents the risk of return to use. Life stresses can always pop up at the most inconvenient times, and having support to turn to is key,” the article states.

In the article, Britany Lawson, an RN with ReVIDA® Recovery, added her insight on employment options:

“Mountain Empire Community College is one of our career partners. They specifically have masonry classes and construction classes, and they provide meals and gas tickets to get to the school. They provide all the tools needed for the classes and the program is 8 weeks. They [patients] can get certificates and start jobs. Another partner we work with is the Southwest Virginia Workforce Development Board. The R.O.P.E.S. program specifically helps those in recovery find jobs, get their driver’s license reinstated, and pay for legal fees impending to get their license back.”

Many patients are re-entering the workforce after years of possible homelessness and opioid use. After applying for jobs, the next step is the interview process. The general rule of thumb is to dress professionally for an interview. This would mean khakis or dress pants, a button-down shirt or polo, and dress shoes for males. For females, skirts or dresses between knee and ankle length paired with a blouse or sweater with dress shoes are common. Clothes should be neat and tidy as the goal is to impress the employer, making presentation important.

Some employers require drug screens before offering employment. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, opioid use disorder is a classified disability. This protects patients from discrimination from employers for taking Suboxone. Legally, a company cannot deny employment solely based on medication-assisted treatment, and they also cannot terminate for the same reason. However, it does not protect against those who are currently taking illegal opioids. This includes taking Suboxone without a prescription. Employers do have the right to ask for proof of a valid prescription, and being cooperative can help make the process easier.

ReVIDA® Recovery has helped many find their success in recovery from opioid use disorders. They can connect patients with job resources, housing, and food assistance. With medications like Suboxone and regular therapy sessions, they have established their role in combating the opioid epidemic.

To learn more about ReVIDA® Recovery, call 423-631-0432 or visit their website.