7 Signs You Might Benefit from Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a “whole-patient” approach to treating substance use disorders. This evidence-based method has helped countless individuals achieve lasting recovery, reduce overdoseLife-threatening condition from excessive substance use. risk, and rebuild their lives. But how do you know if MAT might be right for you or someone you care about?

In this article, I’ll walk you through seven clear signs indicating MAT would benefit your recovery journey. Understanding these indicators can be the first step toward finding effective, sustainable treatment that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Before diving into the signs that MAT might be right for you, it’s essential to understand what this treatment approach entails. Medication-Assisted Treatment is defined by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as the use of medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a “whole-patient” approach to treating substance use disorders.

The FDA has approved three medications specifically for treating opioid use disorderChronic dependency on opioids with high overdose risk.:

• MethadoneLong-acting opioid agonist for opioid use disorder treatment. – A full opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawalPhysical/mental symptoms when stopping an addictive substance. symptoms
• Buprenorphine (often combined with naloxone as SuboxoneBuprenorphine + naloxone film for opioid treatment.) – A partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms with a lower risk of misuse
• NaltrexoneBlocks opioid receptors to reduce alcohol/opioid cravings. (available as a monthly injection called VivitrolMonthly naltrexone injection for opioid/alcohol use disorder.) – An opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids

For alcohol use disorderInability to control alcohol use despite negative effects., medications like acamprosateReduces alcohol cravings by balancing brain chemistry., disulfiramCauses nausea with alcohol to deter drinking., and naltrexone can be practical components of MAT. These medications don’t simply replace one substance with another—they work to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions.

Now, explore the signs indicating MAT could benefit your recovery journey.

1. Persistent Cravings Despite Attempts to Quit

One of the most common signs that Medication-Assisted Treatment might be beneficial is experiencing persistent, intense cravings despite sincere efforts to quit using substances. These cravings can be overwhelming and often lead to relapseReturn to substance use or behavior after a period of abstinence., even when you’re highly motivated to stop.

Cravings occur because prolonged substance use alters brain chemistry, particularly affecting the reward and motivation pathways. When you stop using, your brain essentially demands the substance it has become dependent on, creating powerful urges that can be extremely difficult to resist through willpower alone.

How MAT Helps with Cravings

The medications used in MAT specifically target these neurochemical imbalances. For example, buprenorphine and methadone work by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids activate, but in a controlled, regulated way that reduces cravings without producing the euphoria or dangerous side effects of misused opioids.

If you’ve made multiple attempts to quit but find yourself repeatedly overwhelmed by cravings that lead back to substance use, MAT could provide the neurochemical support needed to break this cycle and create space for other recovery work to take hold.

2. Multiple Failed Attempts at Abstinence-Based Recovery

Have you tried traditional abstinence-based programs multiple times without achieving lasting recovery? This pattern is extremely common and often misinterpreted as a lack of commitment or willpower. It may indicate that your brain and body need additional support that these programs alone cannot provide.

Research consistently shows that for many people with opioid use disorder in particular, abstinence-based approaches without medication support have high relapse rates, as high as 90% in some studies. This isn’t a moral failing; it’s a reflection of the profound neurobiological changes that occur with substance use disorders.

The Science Behind Recovery Attempts

When someone repeatedly attempts recovery but experiences relapses, it’s often because the underlying neurochemical imbalances haven’t been adequately addressed. Each relapse can be increasingly discouraging, leading to feelings of hopelessness and the belief that recovery might not be possible.

It’s important to understand that MAT doesn’t replace these other recovery approaches—it enhances them. Many people find that once they begin MAT, they’re able to participate more fully in counseling, support groups, and other recovery activities because they’re not constantly fighting cravings or dealing with withdrawal symptoms.

3. Severe Withdrawal Symptoms That Lead to Relapse

Withdrawal symptoms can be one of the most significant barriers to recovery. For many substances, particularly opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines, withdrawal can be not only highly uncomfortable but also potentially dangerous. The fear of these symptoms often keeps people trapped in cycles of use, even when they desperately want to stop.

Common withdrawal symptoms include:

If you’ve experienced severe withdrawal symptoms that have led you back to substance use, MAT could provide crucial support during this vulnerable period. The medications used in MAT can significantly reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms, making the transition to abstinenceRefraining from addictive substances or behaviors completely. much more manageable.

How MAT Addresses Withdrawal

Different MAT medications work in different ways to address withdrawal:

• Methadone and buprenorphine prevent withdrawal symptoms by providing a controlled, medically supervised amount of opioid medication that can be gradually reduced over time
• Naltrexone doesn’t address acute withdrawal, but can be started after the withdrawal period to prevent relapse
• Acamprosate helps reduce alcohol withdrawal symptoms and cravings

4. History of Overdose or High-Risk Use Patterns

Suppose you or someone you care about has experienced an overdose or engages in high-risk use patterns. In that case, this is perhaps the most urgent sign that Medication-Assisted Treatment should be considered. Overdose risk is particularly high for people who use opioids, especially in today’s environment where the drug supply is increasingly contaminated with powerful synthetic opioids like fentanylSynthetic opioid ~50x stronger than heroin; fatal in tiny doses..

High-risk use patterns that significantly increase overdose danger include:

• Using alone
• Mixing substances (particularly opioids with alcohol or benzodiazepines)
• Injecting drugs
• Using after a period of abstinence (when toleranceNeeding more of a substance to achieve the same effect. is lower)
• Using substances from unknown sources

MAT as Overdose Prevention

Research consistently shows that MAT significantly reduces overdose risk. A 2018 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that treatment with methadone or buprenorphine after a nonfatal overdose was associated with a 40-60% reduction in mortality at one year.

MAT works to prevent overdose in several ways:

• Reduces or eliminates illicit drug use
• Provides a stable, known dose of medication
• Prevents the extreme highs and lows that can lead to risky use
• Maintains some level of tolerance, which can be protective if relapse occurs
• Connects individuals to healthcare systems and support

For those with a history of overdose or high-risk use patterns, MAT isn’t just beneficial—it can be lifesaving. The stability provided by MAT creates a foundation for longer-term recovery work while immediately reducing the risk of fatal outcomes.

5. Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions and substance use disorders frequently occur together. According to SAMHSA, approximately 9.2 million adults in the United States have co-occurring disorders. Common mental health conditions that often accompany substance use disorders include:

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Bipolar disorder
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

When mental health conditions and substance use disorders co-occur, they can create a complex cycle where each condition exacerbates the other. Many people use substances as a form of self-medication for untreated mental health symptoms, while substance use can worsen existing mental health conditions or triggerStimulus sparking cravings or relapse. new ones.

How MAT Supports Mental Health Recovery

For individuals with co-occurring disorders, MAT offers several important benefits:

Research shows that integrated treatment approaches that address both substance use and mental health simultaneously are more effective than treating either condition alone. MAT can be a crucial component of this integrated approach, providing the stability needed to effectively address underlying mental health concerns.

6. Impact on Daily Functioning and Responsibilities

When substance use begins to interfere with your ability to fulfill daily responsibilities—at work, school, or home—it’s a significant indicator that additional support like MAT might be beneficial. This impact often develops gradually, making it difficult to recognize until problems become severe.

Signs that substance use is affecting your functioning might include:

• Declining performance at work or school
• Difficulty maintaining relationships
• Financial problems related to substance use
• Neglecting self-carePractices to maintain health and well-being, encouraged in coaching. or household responsibilities
• Legal issues resulting from substance use
• Increased conflicts with family members or colleagues

How MAT Improves Functioning

One of the most remarkable aspects of MAT is how quickly it can help restore normal functioning. When the brain is no longer in a constant state of cravingIntense urge to use a substance, triggered by cues or stress. or withdrawal, cognitive function improves, emotional regulationManaging emotions to improve mental health, coached skill. becomes easier, and people can begin rebuilding the areas of life that have been affected by substance use.

Research consistently shows that MAT improves employment outcomes, reduces criminal activity, and enhances overall quality of life. A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that patients receiving MAT were more than twice as likely to be employed compared to those not receiving medication support.

Suppose substance use affects your ability to function in critical areas of life. In that case, MAT can provide the stability needed to begin rebuilding while you develop the skills and support systems for long-term recovery.

7. Physical Health Complications Related to Substance Use

Substance use disorders often lead to serious physical health complications that can be life-threatening if left untreated. These complications vary depending on the substance used, route of administration, and duration of use, but they signal that medical intervention—including MAT—may be urgently needed.

Common physical health complications include:

Beyond these specific complications, substance use disorders often lead to general health neglect. Regular medical care, dental care, nutrition, and exercise frequently fall by the wayside when substance use becomes central to a person’s life.

MAT as Part of Comprehensive Health Recovery

MAT programs typically include comprehensive healthcare services that address both the substance use disorder and its physical complications. This integrated approach can be lifesaving for those with serious health issues related to their substance use.

For many patients, addressing physical health concerns becomes possible only after the chaos of active addiction is stabilized through MAT. The regular medical monitoring that comes with MAT programs also helps identify and address health issues before they become severe.

If you’re experiencing physical health complications related to substance use, MAT can be an essential part of your recovery, addressing both the addiction and its health consequences simultaneously.

Addressing Common Concerns About MAT

Despite the strong evidence supporting Medication-Assisted Treatment, many people have concerns or misconceptions that prevent them from considering this approach. As an addiction medicine specialist, I hear these concerns regularly and want to address the most common ones:

If you have other concerns about MAT that aren’t addressed here, I encourage you to discuss them with a healthcare provider who specializes in addiction medicine. Getting accurate information is essential in making decisions about your recovery journey.

Finding the Right MAT Provider

If you’ve identified with several of the signs we’ve discussed, you may be wondering how to find appropriate Medication-Assisted Treatment. Finding the right provider is crucial for successful treatment, as the quality and approach of MAT programs can vary significantly.

Types of MAT Providers

MAT is available through several different types of providers and settings:

• Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) – Federally regulated programs that can provide all three FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder
• Office-Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT) – Primary care or psychiatry practices where physicians prescribe buprenorphine
• Addiction specialty clinics – Facilities specifically focused on addiction treatment that may offer comprehensive services
• TelehealthBroad use of technology for health services, education, beyond clinical care. providers – Virtual services that can prescribe buprenorphine and provide counseling remotely
• Integrated healthcare systems – Hospital-based programs that offer MAT alongside other medical services

Questions to Ask Potential Providers

When researching MAT providers, consider asking these questions to find the right fit:

Resources for Finding MAT Providers

Several resources can help you locate MAT providers in your area:

• SAMHSA’s Treatment Locator – Search for facilities that offer MAT
• FindTreatment.gov – Government resource for finding substance use treatment
• National Alliance of Advocates for Buprenorphine Treatment Provider Locator – Find buprenorphine providers
• Your primary care provider Can often provide referrals to trusted MAT providers
• Local health departments Often maintain lists of treatment resources

Remember that finding the right provider may take some persistence, but it’s worth the effort. The right MAT program can make a tremendous difference in your recovery journey.

Taking the First Step Toward Recovery with MAT

Throughout this article, we’ve explored seven key signs that might indicate Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) could benefit your recovery journey. From persistent cravings and failed recovery attempts to health complications and co-occurring mental health conditions, these signs aren’t indicators of personal weakness—they’re valuable information about what your brain and body need to heal.

MAT represents a scientifically validated approach to treating substance use disorders that addresses both the biological and psychological aspects of addiction. By combining FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies, MAT provides comprehensive support that can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

If you’ve recognized several of these signs in your own experience, I encourage you to consider exploring MAT as an option. Remember that seeking help isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a courageous step toward reclaiming your health and life.

As an addiction medicine specialist, I’ve witnessed countless patients transform their lives through MAT. People who had lost hope after multiple relapses have gone on to achieve stable recovery, rebuild relationships, advance in their careers, and find joy in living again.

Recovery is possible, and you deserve access to all the tools to help you achieve it. If you’re ready to take that first step, reach out to a healthcare provider specializing in addiction medicine to discuss whether MAT might be right for you.