Treatment for Trazodone Addiction

While the drug trazodone is widely considered to be nonaddictive as well as non-habit-forming, there is still a potential for abuse, as there is with any medication. The risk is highest for individuals who have a prior history of substance abuse.

What Treatment Options Are Available for Trazodone Addiction?

When it comes to addiction treatment, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, there are proven methods of treatment that will help an individual get sober while equipping them with tools to avoid relapse.

Since trazodone is normally prescribed to treat major depressive disorder, it’s likely that some who abuse the drug are dealing with co-occurring mental health conditions. Treatment must effectively address all co-occurring disorders in order to be successful on all fronts.

Here are some of the treatment options to expect for trazodone addiction:

Detox

The first step in treatment is often detox, which entails abstaining from the drug long enough for it to exit the body’s systems. This can take anywhere from a few days to a week or longer. However, with certain types of medications (trazodone included), it is not a good idea to detox on your own suddenly.

If you have used trazodone for a prolonged period of time, and the body and brain have become dependent on the drug, medical supervision is recommended for detox. Often, your doctor may recommend that you gradually taper your dose to avoid acute withdrawal symptoms. 

Your doctor will be able to observe symptoms, manage any discomfort, and provide any treatment or supplemental medication if needed. If uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms are experienced, medication may be used to reduce pain and discomfort.

Inpatient & Outpatient Rehab

Rehabilitation centers provide a structured environment where an individual can come to understand their condition as well as the consequences of their drug use. Rehab programs provide therapy and counseling where clients can gain tools to deal with relapse triggers once they exit treatment. 

Rehab programs are either inpatient or outpatient, and they often offer care for 30-day, 60-day, or 90-day increments. However, there are programs where individuals can remain enrolled for a longer period of time.

The specifics of your treatment will be determined by your situation. If you have been abusing multiple substances in addition to trazodone, more intensive treatment may be recommended. The same is true if you are dealing with co-occurring disorders, such as depression and substance abuse.

Aftercare

Aftercare is a key component of sustained recovery. Often, the early days of recovery are when you are most vulnerable, so it’s important to have a solid aftercare plan in place to give yourself the best chances of success.

Ongoing therapy is important. Most often, people continue therapy on an outpatient basis after exiting a formal treatment plan. This gives them the opportunity to check in and discuss current issues. They can also get a refresher on lessons learned while in more intensive treatment.

Support groups are also a crucial component of living in recovery. While you might not find support groups specifically for trazodone addiction, most people attend general addiction support group meetings. People in these groups are in recovery from various forms of substance abuse, and they all provide support and encouragement to each other.

If you continue to use any antidepressant, you’ll need a plan with your care team to ensure you don’t abuse that medication.

Therapy Options in Addiction Treatment

Primary types of therapy offered in trazodone addiction treatment programs include the following:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT)
• Contingency management (CM)
• Family therapy
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy
• Alternative therapies, like art therapy, music therapy, or equine-assisted therapy

Supporting a Life in Recovery

The importance of what you do after you complete rehab is pivotal in determining if you will maintain your recovery. Since addiction is a chronic condition, it requires a focus on managing the condition for the rest of your life. Over time, the intensity of that focus generally lessens as you gain a stronger foothold in a sober life.

Here are some tips that can help you to resist relapse:

New Habits

You might find that you have a lot of free time now that you aren’t abusing trazodone or other substances. This can be a relapse trigger. Fill that time with healthy habits, like exercise, reading, or socializing with sober friends. Consider taking up a new hobby, like crafting, hiking, or writing.

Wellness Groups 

Joining some sort of fitness group or class has also been shown to help individuals remain sober. A yoga class or a martial arts class will put you in contact with new kinds of people who share similar interests and life goals. Since the focus is on wellness, you’ll leave sessions feeling good.

Mindfulness Practices 

Practicing mindfulness and meditation is a good way to combat drug cravings and adjust to living a life without resorting to substances. Mindfulness has also been shown to reduce the risk of relapse for those in recovery.

Support Group Participation

Joining a support group, such as Narcotics Anonymous, has also helped countless individuals achieve sobriety, remain sober, and live productive and happy lives. There are various kinds of support groups, so you can find one that suits your personal preferences. Some people don’t like the religious underpinnings of the 12-step model, so secular opinions might be a better choice in those instances.

Continued Effort

After detox and addiction treatment, there is still work that needs to be done in order to maintain sobriety. It’s important to make a plan for your life after trazodone addiction treatment. 

If you have a solid plan, you’ll be less likely to return to trazodone abuse when triggers arise. In the process, you’ll also simply build a healthier, more fulfilling life.