Leave Opioid Abuse Problems Behind with Raleigh NC Halfway Houses

Substance abuse is a serious issue in Raleigh, North Carolina that involves the harmful or unhealthy use of any psychoactive substance. This includes illegal drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, as well as misused prescription drugs. Even legal substances like alcohol can be abused if consumed excessively or in risky ways. The use of the substance leads to negative consequences in a person’s life. These consequences can range widely, impacting physical and mental health, relationships, work or school performance, and finances.

In Raleigh, North Carolina, the impact of drug abuse has been significant. Raleigh has seen a rise in opioid overdose deaths. Raleigh-Durham-Cary CSA, 7.4%, equating to 126,000 individuals aged 12 or older, were identified as having a substance use disorder within the past year. Among adults aged 18 or older in this region, 6.2%, totaling 94,000 adults, experienced a major depressive episode in the past year. These rates were similar to the rates in North Carolina and the state as a whole.

Halfway houses can be a powerful tool in the fight against opioid abuse. The benefits of halfway houses for people recovering from opioid addiction are numerous. They provide a stable and sober living environment, free from the temptations of drugs and alcohol. This is crucial during a vulnerable time in recovery when relapse is a significant risk. Halfway houses in Raleigh NC establish structure and routine, which helps individuals rebuild healthy habits and learn to cope with cravings. If you or someone you know is considering a halfway house as part of an opioid abuse recovery plan, take the time to research options and ask questions to find the most suitable one for you.

What is a controlled substance in North Carolina?

A controlled substance is a drug or chemical that is regulated by the government of North Carolina because of its potential for abuse and dependence. This includes both illegal drugs and prescription medications. 

The North Carolina Controlled Substances Act outlines regulatory requirements and guidelines for controlled substances within the state, covering various aspects such as acquisition, storage, security, and more, highlighting the essential need for compliance with both state and federal rules by all users of controlled substances.

Controlled substances are classified into five schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use. The following of which are:

• Schedule I substances have the highest potential for abuse and little to no accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. These substances include heroin, LSD, marijuana (in some states), and ecstasy.
• Schedule II substances have a high potential for abuse, but they also have a currently accepted medical use in treatment with severe restrictions. These substances include oxycodone, hydrocodone, cocaine, and methadone.
• Schedule III substances have a moderate potential for abuse and have a currently accepted medical use in treatment. These substances include codeine, some anabolic steroids, and some barbiturates.
• Schedule IV substances have a low potential for abuse and have a currently accepted medical use in treatment. These substances include Xanax, Valium, and some stimulants.
• Schedule V substances have the lowest potential for abuse and have a currently accepted medical use in treatment. These substances include cough syrups that contain codeine and some antidiarrheal medications.

The regulation of controlled substances is important for public safety. It ensures that these substances are only used for legitimate medical purposes and that they are not diverted to illegal use.

Are there halfway houses specifically made for drug rehabilitation?

Yes, there are halfway houses specifically designed for drug rehabilitation. In fact, the concept of a halfway house originated from the addiction recovery field. For individuals leaving rehab, reintegrating directly back into society can be overwhelming. Halfway houses offer a more gradual transition with a supportive environment. The structure is less rigid than inpatient treatment, but it provides more guidance and accountability than living alone.

This supportive environment is key for a complete recovery. Halfway houses offer a safe and drug-free space where residents can focus on staying sober. Surrounded by others who are also recovering from addiction, they build a sense of community and hold each other accountable. This sense of belonging and shared experience is important during this vulnerable stage.

Halfway houses go beyond simply providing a safe space. They also equip residents with the necessary skills to live independently. This includes practical skills like budgeting, developing healthy relationships and learning relapse prevention techniques. By focusing on these areas, halfway houses empower residents to manage their lives after they leave the program.

Some examples of halfway houses that help deal with drug rehabilitation and other substance use disorders may include:

1. 1. Fellowship Home of Raleigh: Provides a structured home environment in the early months of recovery from alcohol and/or drug addiction.
   2. Emmaus House of Raleigh NC: Provides safe, affordable housing for working, homeless men recovering from alcohol and substance dependency. Offers a stable support system for long-term sobriety.
   3. Hope House: Provides transitional housing for individuals who have completed treatment programs. Residents receive support in maintaining sobriety, finding employment, and rebuilding their lives.

These halfway houses serve as stepping stones for individuals seeking stability, sobriety, and a fresh start.

What is a high intensity halfway house? 

A high-intensity halfway house is a specialized type of residential facility designed to support individuals with multiple complex needs. Their target population are individuals with multiple issues such as substance use disorders, mental health disorders, impaired functioning, and difficulty adapting to societal norms.  High-intensity halfway houses could be suitable for individuals with a history of severe addiction, co-occuring mental health conditions, or those having difficulties in maintaining sobriety in a less structured environment.

Some differences from a traditional halfway house may be:

• Increased supervision and support: Residents in a high-intensity program might benefit from more frequent monitoring, check-ins, or individual therapy sessions compared to a standard halfway house. This additional support can be useful for individuals with a higher risk of relapse or those requiring more intensive intervention.
• Stricter rules and expectations: High-intensity halfway houses have stricter rules and curfews to ensure a more controlled environment. This can be helpful for individuals who need additional external structure to maintain sobriety.
• Specialized Programming: The program may offer a wider range of specialized therapy sessions, focusing on addressing co-occurring mental health issues, trauma, or addiction triggers.
• More frequent drug testing: Residents in a high-intensity program are subject to more frequent or random drug testing to monitor progress.
• Emphasis on relapse prevention: The program’s curriculum places a stronger focus on relapse prevention strategies, equipping residents with the skills and resources to identify and manage triggers effectively.

There isn’t a universally standardized definition for a high intensity halfway house,  but it refers to a halfway house program with a more rigorous level of support and structure compared to traditional halfway houses. Since the term “high intensity” isn’t universally defined, program details can vary. It’s important to research individual halfway houses to understand their specific structure, support systems, and eligibility criteria.

Start Your Recovery Journey from Opioid Abuse with Raleigh NC halfway houses

Given the widespread presence of opioids, addressing the opioid crisis in Raleigh, North Carolina demands a comprehensive strategy. As the fight against addiction intensifies, halfway houses serve as pivotal hubs, furnishing a nurturing environment that fosters recovery, delivers essential guidance, and reinforces community connections critical for breaking the cycle of substance abuse.

In 2020, an average of nine North Carolinians died each day from a drug overdose, marking a 40% increase compared to the previous year. The number of drug overdose deaths in North Carolina, from both illicit substances and medications, rose by nearly 1,000 deaths, reaching 3,304. In the 

From 1999 to 2017, more than 13,169 individuals residing in North Carolina lost their lives to unintentional opioid overdoses. In 2017 alone, over 2,000 North Carolinians died of opioid overdoses, a 32% increase from the previous year. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has noted a significant rise in deaths related to fentanyl, with 1,517 deaths attributed to synthetic opioids excluding methadone in 2020.

Halfway houses in Raleigh NC offer more than just stability. They help build a strong sense of community. Residents connect with peers who understand their struggles, creating a network of belonging and accountability. This support system is vital not only during their stay in the halfway house but also after they transition back into society. By working together, we can empower halfway houses to be even more effective against opioid addiction. Recovery is possible, and halfway houses offer a beacon of hope for those seeking a path back to a healthy life. Give us a call today!

Resources:

[1] North Carolina Controlled Substances Act – NCDHHS

[2] North Carolina Reports 40% Increase in Overdose Deaths – NCDHHS

[3] Substance Use and Mental Disorders – SAMHSA