Medications such as Methadone and Suboxone are the gold standard for opiate dependence. They allow the person to cease drug use and return to a normal level of functioning. However, opponents of medication assisted treatment believe that these medications numb emotions, and therefore prevent them from addressing core emotional issues in recovery. Listen in to a group of former opiate addicts discuss what they believe constitutes “true” recovery.

Discussion Guide:

How do you define recovery?

What are the necessary components of recovery?

Has your medication (Methadone, Suboxone, Vivitrol) blunted your emotions and ability to examine the cause of your addiction?

Have you addressed the core issues that may have led you to opioid dependence, such as trauma and emotional distress?

Do you believe that you have to stop your medication in order to address these issues more fully?

Supplemental Reading:

Desanto, Joseph, MD, Do Suboxone and Methadone Prevent Us From Experiencing True Recovery? https://www.thefix.com/do-suboxone-and-methadone-prevent-us-experiencing-true-recovery