Can Tech Improve Rehab?

Although rehab is aimed at ending addiction permanently, many people find that their stay in a treatment center does not have the effect on them that it should. Unfortunately, even for people that have stayed in a rehab program for several months relapse is a reality. Some people may attend a certain treatment program and find that its tactics simply don’t work for them and they end up using again.

The format of rehab can be helpful for many but for those with more complicated issues or very serious addictions they might need extra support in order to quit their problem. Researchers are looking for unique ways to make the rehab experience more effective for everyone so that they aren’t people who are left behind. Some in the field of mental health are even trying to incorporate technology into rehab in a way that they hope with make it more useful in preventing relapse.

Researchers are creating new apps that can be used in connection with a rehab program that will help people curb their addictions. Adding new technological components could help make it easier for people in recovery to stay connected to their goals and fight cravings as they are happening. Apps that keep people on track can be useful when they are away from their therapy program or are dealing with a difficult craving.

Tech Recovery Programs

Clinical researchers have specially designed smartphone apps that can be used as part of an addiction recovery plan. The FDA even recently approved an app called reSET that was created specifically to treat opioid addiction. The approval means that the app was rigorously tested and has been proven effective by the Food and Drug Administration.

The apps are created to help people curb their harmful behavior and give them support in moments where they might not have any assistance. Right now there are only a few apps offering evidence-based treatment but that number is expected to rise dramatically in the next few years. With the opioid epidemic in its current state it is important for people to have as many options as possible to help them end their addiction.

The new Opioid Commission has emphasized the need to use technology to help assist in addiction treatment including mobile apps in order to reach areas of the country with high rates of overdose. Most apps are a part of a normal rehab program but for people with less severe addictions there are some options that are designed to stand on their own. Apps like Annum and Ria health were created to help reduce patterns of heavy drinking.

Other apps are designed to be used after a person completes their rehab program and needs extra support in the period of transition when they return home. Apps like WeConnect and Sober Grid are like social networks where people can stay connected after they have finished their recovery treatment. Other apps like Triggrhealth are designed to recognize an imminent relapse so a patient can get help before the relapse occurs.

Incorporating Apps into Treatment

While not all treatment centers will make use of these types of apps, they can be helpful for people who have just completed rehab or who need some extra help while they are working on their treatment program. Because the apps are pre-programmed they can help protect patients from having a bad or ineffective experience while at rehab. Within the app, the user can set their own goals and work at their own pace so that they don’t feel that they have failed at treatment.

Some apps even incorporate the use of medications like methadone or buprenorphine for people that are struggling with an opioid addiction. Apps like Annum and BioCorRx use medication as an integral part of the treatment approach. Users of the app can connect with a psychiatric board that can remotely prescribe medications for patients that are having issues with cravings.

Many of the apps help you track your cravings and triggers and also provide exercises that can help reduce them. They focus on overall mind and body wellness rather than just the specific goal of abstinence which can be difficult and overwhelming for many people. The apps allow people the opportunity to reach individual goals and have a support system that offers quick solutions in a time of need.

Treating a severe addiction requires lots of support from therapists and counselors in a safe and helpful environment. However, the addition of a treatment app may allow patients more opportunities to focus on their recovery in their moments alone or on the go. Making use of every type of treatment available, including through technology can make it easier for people who are struggling with their addiction to prevent a relapse and stay permanently sober.

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