Fentanyl Rehab Center

Written By

Amanda Stevens

Updated On : August 1, 2024

Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has become a nightmare fueling the opioid crisis ravaging communities across America.[1] What started as a powerful painkiller has rapidly evolved into a highly addictive substance, destroying lives. In fact, nearly 75,000 people died of a fentanyl overdose in 2022.[2]

At Engage Wellness Acton, we understand the complexities of fentanyl addiction and are committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate treatment to help our clients break free from this vicious cycle.

Fentanyl’s Deadly Grip: How Addictive Is It?

Fentanyl’s potency makes it incredibly addictive — a staggering 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.[3] Its ability to rapidly cross the blood-brain barrier and induce intense euphoria is what drives its rampant abuse among those battling opioid addiction. But its strength is a double-edged sword — even tiny doses can cause life-threatening overdoses.

Culture of Crisis

Heroin seizures decreased by almost 70 percent between 2019 and 2023, and fentanyl seizures increased by a staggering 451 percent over the same time period, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).[4]

This synthetic opioid is increasingly being mixed into other drugs like heroin or counterfeit prescription pills, unknowingly exposing more users to its dangers. Statistics showed that by June 2021, synthetic opioids were involved in an estimated 87% of opioid deaths and 65% of all drug overdose deaths.[5]

Unfortunately, accessibility to effective treatment is still a major obstacle. In 2022, an estimated 54.6 million people aged 12 and older needed treatment for a substance use disorder in the past year.[6] Only 26% of those received any help for substance use disorder.

With fentanyl’s stranglehold on the illicit drug market showing no signs of letting up and huge gaps in treatment access leaving millions struggling, the crisis rages on – a devastating path of overdoses, shattered families, and lives cut short. Tackling this immense public health emergency won’t be easy. It’s going to take a multi-pronged approach, from cracking down on the poisonous drug supply to making evidence-based addiction treatment more widely available and accessible for those who desperately need it.

Recognizing the Signs: A Cry for Help

Identifying fentanyl addiction’s red flags is crucial for timely intervention. Common warning signs include:[7]

Physical Signs

  • Excessive drowsiness and sedation
  • Constricted pupils
  • Slurred speech
  • Poor coordination and dizziness
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Volatile mood swings
  • Intense, uncontrollable cravings

Behavioral Signs

  • Missing school, work, and other commitments.
  • Drop in performance at work or school.
  • Withdrawing from family, friends, and hobbies.
  • Change in friends and routine.
  • Isolation and secretive behavior.

If you notice these symptoms in a loved one, don’t delay. Professional help could be the difference between life and death.

Body and Mind Affects: The Shattering Impact of Fentanyl Abuse

The devastation brought on by fentanyl addiction spans both physical and psychological domains. On the physical side, the effects can be catastrophic:

  • Respiratory depression and failure, potentially fatal during overdose.[8]
  • Liver and kidney damage from long-term use.
  • Increased risk of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis from intravenous use.
  • Bowel obstruction and constipation.
  • Muscle weakness and cramping.
  • Impaired coordination and dizziness.
  • Fluctuations in blood pressure.

Psychologically, fentanyl’s assault on the brain chemistry is equally destructive, manifesting in:

  • Intense drug cravings and compulsive use.
  • Mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
  • Cognitive impairments are affecting memory, attention, and decision-making.
  • Potential for psychosis and paranoia.
  • Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction

With a deep understanding of each client’s needs and challenges, we create a supportive, judgment-free environment that fosters healing and growth. Our evidence-based treatment modalities are designed to empower clients with the tools and strategies necessary for lasting recovery:

  • Address root causes of addiction: Through individual and group therapy sessions, we dive into the psychological, emotional, and environmental factors that may have led to substance abuse, helping clients develop self-awareness and identify triggers.
  • Develop coping strategies: By incorporating techniques like CBT and DBT, we equip you with healthy coping mechanisms to manage cravings, stress, and negative thought patterns.
  • Build a sober support network: We know how crucial it is to have a solid support system in recovery. That’s why we prioritize connecting you with peer support groups and getting your family involved. We’ll ensure you’ve got a reliable crew to turn to, both during treatment and beyond.
  • Fostering self-discovery: Through methods like motivational interviewing, we’ll guide you in exploring your own values, beliefs, and motivations. This process helps ignite your inner drive for positive change and fuels your commitment to recovery.
  • Leveling up your life skills: Kicking addiction is just the beginning. We want to set you up for long-term success. Our programs go beyond the basics, teaching you crucial life skills like stress management, goal-setting, relapse prevention, and job readiness. We’ll give you the tools to not just stay sober but to truly thrive in every aspect of your life.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at Engage Wellness Acton

Fentanyl addiction is a beast, but you don’t have to battle it alone. If you or someone you love is struggling and needs treatment for fentanyl addiction, reach out to Engage Wellness Acton today. Our compassionate team will walk alongside you on the path to healing and renewal.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Levels of Care

Fentanyl addiction requires comprehensive, individualized care due to its potency and the complexity of withdrawal. Treatment typically progresses through several levels, allowing people to move between more and less intensive care as their recovery strengthens.

  • Day Treatment/Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Most intensive outpatient option offering full days of treatment five to seven days weekly. Includes medical supervision, intensive therapy, and structured support while allowing you to return home each evening.
  • Intensive Outpatient (IOP): Structured program meeting three to five days per week for several hours each day. Combines group therapy, individual counseling, and recovery skill development while maintaining work or family responsibilities.
  • Outpatient Program (OP): Flexible treatment offering several hours of care per week. Ideal for those who have completed more intensive treatment or have strong support systems. Includes ongoing therapy and recovery maintenance.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Uses FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine or methadone alongside counseling to manage withdrawal and cravings. Medical providers monitor dosage and progress throughout treatment.
  • Veterans Recovery Track: Specialized treatment addressing the unique needs of veterans struggling with fentanyl use. Combines addiction treatment with trauma-informed care and military cultural competency.

Treatment Modalities for Fentanyl Addiction

Engage Wellness utilizes several unique treatment methods to help you or a loved one in the recovery process during fentanyl rehab.

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A focused approach that identifies and changes harmful thought patterns and behaviors related to fentanyl use, with practical strategies for managing triggers.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Core emotional skills development through mindfulness and regulation techniques, leading to better stress management without substances.
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Trauma-focused therapy that reduces the impact of difficult memories, often underlying addiction patterns.
  • Family Program: Structured sessions designed to repair relationships and educate loved ones about addiction while building healthy communication patterns.
  • Group Therapy: A collaborative space where peers share experiences and insights, fostering connection and mutual understanding in recovery.
  • Holistic Treatment: Alternative healing approaches, including meditation, yoga, and art therapy that support overall well-being during recovery.
  • Motivational Interviewing: Gentle exploration of personal values and goals to strengthen commitment to change through supportive dialogue.
  • Relapse Prevention: Strategic planning and skill development that prepares people for long-term recovery success.
  • Twelve-Step Program: Time-tested recovery framework combining peer support, personal growth, and spiritual development through structured steps.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Fentanyl Rehab

Do you provide fentanyl detox services onsite?

While we don’t offer detox services at our facility, we maintain strong partnerships with trusted local detox centers and can provide direct referrals. Our admissions team will help coordinate your transition from detox to our fentanyl treatment program, ensuring continuity of care. We’ll help you find a detox facility that takes your insurance and can begin your treatment planning process while you’re still in detox.

How do you approach treatment for people who relapsed after previous attempts?

We understand that recovery often involves setbacks and creating treatment plans that address what didn’t work before. Our program combines medical support, therapy, and relapse prevention strategies while identifying and treating any underlying issues that may have contributed to previous relapses. Each attempt at recovery provides valuable insights we can use to strengthen your path forward.

Does your fentanyl treatment program offer ongoing support after treatment ends?

Yes, aftercare is a crucial part of our program. We begin planning for life after treatment from day one, connecting you with local recovery resources, outpatient care, and support groups. Our alumni program provides continued connection, and we help coordinate ongoing therapy and medication management as needed. Recovery continues long after leaving our facility, and we ensure you have the support system needed for lasting success.

There is a Better Way to Live. It's Time to Get the Help You Deserve.

Take the first step in getting your life back. Speak with our admissions team today.
Contact Us

The Engage wellness Editorial Guidelines

An editorial policy serves as the foundational framework directing all materials produced and distributed by Engage Wellness, spanning digital and printed formats. We maintain exceptional standards for learning resources, ensuring each publication meets rigorous quality and truthfulness benchmarks for medical content you can trust.

Read More About Our Process

Sources

[1] United States Drug Enforcement Administration. (2021, April 29). Facts about Fentanyl. DEA. https://www.dea.gov/resources/facts-about-fentanyl on February 13, 2025

[2] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2024, August). Drug Overdose Death Rates. National Institute on Drug Abuse; National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates on February 13, 2025

[3] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021, June 1). Fentanyl drug facts. National Institute on Drug Abuse; National Institute of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl on February 13, 2025

[4] Drug Enforcement Administration. (2024). National Drug Threat Assessment 2024 National Drug Threat Assessment 2024 Drug Enforcement Administration Drug Enforcement Administration. https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2024-05/NDTA_2024.pdf on February 13, 2025

[5] American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Opioid Use Disorder. Psychiatry.org; American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Opioid-Use-Disorder on February 13, 2025

[6] Cooper, M., Gyawali, S., Smith, T., & Yan, J. (2023). Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt42731/2022-nsduh-nnr.pdf on February 13, 2025

[7] United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Fentanyl. (n.d.). DEA. https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/fentanyl on February 13, 2025

[8] Hill, R., Santhakumar, R., Dewey, W., Kelly, E., & Henderson, G. (2019). Fentanyl depression of respiration: Comparison with heroin and morphine. British Journal of Pharmacology, 177(2). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6989952/ on February 13, 2025

Go to Top