Jenny Metz 
Addiction carries a wide range of visible and hidden costs that impact not only the individual but also their family, career, and community. These costs extend beyond the financial burden to include emotional strain, job loss, damaged relationships, legal issues, and weakened community stability. Families often face trauma, isolation, and role disruptions, while communities bear … Read more
Methadone modernization is a transformative approach to opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment that aims to expand access, improve flexibility, and integrate care into more community-based and patient-centered settings. By allowing take-home dosing, pharmacy-based distribution, and care outside of traditional opioid treatment programs (OTPs), this model empowers individuals with more autonomy and dignity in recovery. However, … Read more
Resilience in addiction therapy refers to the inner strength and adaptability individuals develop to overcome the challenges of substance use recovery. Its primary purpose is to help people navigate stress, setbacks, and relapse triggers while staying committed to sobriety and personal growth. Building resilience involves a combination of self-management strategies—such as emotional regulation, goal setting, … Read more
Outpatient care is a vital component of addiction recovery, offering flexible, structured treatment that allows individuals to continue living at home while receiving ongoing support. This level of care meets the needs of those who may not require residential treatment but still benefit from regular therapy, medical management, and skill-building. Successful recovery in an outpatient … Read more
Tapering off benzodiazepines slowly is essential due to the drug’s strong effects on the central nervous system and the serious risks of abrupt withdrawal, including seizures, panic attacks, and rebound anxiety. A gradual reduction allows the brain to readjust safely while minimizing withdrawal symptoms. However, this process is not without its disadvantages—it can be prolonged, … Read more
Extended-release (XR) medications for substance use disorders (SUDs) can significantly improve outcomes for individuals in or recently released from the criminal justice system (CJS) by promoting treatment adherence, reducing substance use, and lowering recidivism. These long-acting options lessen the burden of daily dosing, but also present challenges like high costs, limited access, side effects, and … Read more
Denying MAT access is considered both negligent and a civil rights violation under laws such as the ADA. Facilities may face consequences for restricting or withholding MAT. Families can advocate through legal action and support networks, with help from legal aid and peer advocates. The High Cost of Denying MAT: Why Withholding Evidence-Based Addiction Treatment … Read more
Tianeptine, sold under names like ZaZa or Tianna Red, is a highly addictive drug with opioid-like effects. Though marketed as a supplement, it can cause tolerance, withdrawal, and overdose, with symptoms like sedation, slowed breathing, and seizures. Addiction develops through repeated use and brain changes similar to opioid dependency. Treatment includes naloxone, supportive care, and … Read more
The new treatment paradigm targeting brain circuitry in substance use disorders reflects a shift toward addressing addiction as a brain-based condition. It is driven by the need for more effective, precise interventions amid rising overdoses and the limits of traditional care. While promising, this approach faces challenges, including high costs, limited access, and ethical concerns … Read more
Junk food, especially ultra-processed foods high in sugar, fat, and salt, can be addictive by overstimulating brain reward pathways and triggering compulsive eating. Managing this addiction involves behavioral treatments, self-management strategies, and strong family, community, and policy support. Families can use conversational guidelines and role-play scenarios to provide empathy and reduce shame. Community programs and … Read more