People prescribed Suboxone use the medication responsibly and do not abuse it. If a friend is using Suboxone, they may be abusing the drug by using more than prescribed, using it to get high; or misusing or abusing other drugs while on Suboxone treatment. You should know that some people who use a drug as prescribed might still have difficulty managing their substance abuse problem, and some people are more sensitive to certain medications’ side effects than others.
Here are some insights to help your friend:
Acknowledge That They Feel Okay Using Suboxone
As a friend, you can be helpful in their treatment by understanding that they are using Suboxone as a replacement for alcohol or other drugs. They might choose this medication because it is less addictive and has fewer withdrawal symptoms than other drugs. They may also choose to stay on Suboxone even when not in treatment because it can help them with tolerance issues or cravings. Acknowledging that your friend feels okay about using Suboxone may reassure them that they know the medication’s risks and benefits.
Be Supportive During Treatment
Encourage your friend to talk about their substance abuse problem and to accept help if needed. If your friend wants help, you can be helpful by assisting them in obtaining treatment. If your friend refuses to get help, offer to stay with them while they are withdrawing from the drug. You may want to assist your friend while withdrawing from Suboxone by providing a safe place for them until their withdrawal symptoms subside or by encouraging and helping them during this time.
Stay Concerned
If your friend is not accepting help or has been using drugs while on Suboxone, they may be abusing it. You can still support them by treating them with dignity and respect. Let your friend know that you care and are concerned about their problem. Your friend may still be able to stay on Suboxone, but at this point, you can help your friend by making an appointment for your friend with an addiction treatment professional.
Keep in Touch
Communicate often with your friend about their treatment plan and how you are helping them. If your friend uses the drug illegally, you should let the proper authorities know about the drug use so that they can take action to protect their ability to get treatment or recover from addiction. You may also want to keep in touch if your friend uses other illegal drugs while on Suboxone treatment. If your friend engages in other drug use, they may need more support or treatment services to prevent relapse.
Do Not Guilt-Trap
Your friend is capable of making healthy decisions and is likely not feeling pressured by you to stop using. You do not have to expose your friend’s problem to others unless they ask for help or you want to help them. Keep in touch with your friend if you want, but being a drug counselor is a good example of a job that involves helping people and seeking help for yourself if needed so that you can be the best support you can be for your friend.
Get Professional Help
If you want to help your friend in South East Florida, consider getting help from a professional. This is a good example of seeking help in finishing or starting recovery. It is important to take responsibility and ensure you are doing your part too, so it is not just a one-person solution. Several sober living at-home centers in Florida and other similar rehabilitation programs are available.
Conclusion
Suboxone treatment may be a part of your friend’s recovery. Treatment providers and addiction counselors can help your friend develop a recovery plan. You can also help your friend with their recovery as long as you do what you need to maintain your recovery program and sobriety.
Contact us today at 954-523-1167 if you have any questions or want to ask about Suboxone treatment in South East Florida.