In the United States, the Oxycontin Generation is coming of age, and sadly, many are turning to drugs like heroin. As a result, overdoses and addiction to opiates are rising all over the United States. And addiction doesn’t discriminate; Americans of all ages, from all walks of life, are suffering. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, at least 11 million Americans have used Oxycontin recreationally since Purdue released their highly addictive new formula in 1996. And while not all of these users go on to become addicts, for many, Oxycontin was the first step on a long road to heroin addiction.

Now, more and more Americans are discovering the incredible benefits of ibogaine treatment for opiate addiction. Ibogaine is legal in most countries, but strictly regulated by out-of-touch U.S. drug laws. So many people have already discovered the healing effects of ibogaine treatment programs, which can provide a withdrawal free detox from heroin, opiates, and other addictive drugs. Unfortunately, detox is only the first step on a lifelong journey towards recovery.

So how can recovering opiate addicts stay sober after an ibogaine addiction treatment detox program? There’s no one path to sobriety, but millions of Americans in successful recovery programs have found reliable methods for sobriety.

Ongoing Support is Crucial
Doctors increasingly recognize the disease model of addiction, meaning that addiction requires chronic, long-term care to prevent relapse. And one of the most successful ways people stay sober is by finding reliable support in their community. We know that there is a strong stigma for opiate addiction, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find help.

Millions of people use 12-step groups for support; however, others balk at the religion-oriented approach of 12-step models. There are also secular support groups like Save Ourselves, also known as Secular Organization for Sobriety. You can now find 12-step and S.O.S. groups all over the country.

Outpatient and Medical Support
While some people turn to support groups, others enroll in outpatient medical clinics for support. Still others find an understanding therapist or psychiatrist for long-term support. You can also take the “all of the above” approach, and seek out as many supports as possible.

Suboxone Maintenance
In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved buprenorphine for use in opiate maintenance treatment. You probably know it by the name Suboxone, which has already helped countless addicts reclaim their lives. This opiate analgesic not only reduces cravings and withdrawal, it also acts as an opiate blocker, helping prevent relapse.

Already, Suboxone is the standard of care for treating opiate addiction after the conclusion of a detox or treatment program.

Ultimately, getting sober is only half the battle. Staying sober over time is just as hard. The more support you seek out following an ibogaine treatment program, the better your chances are of preventing relapse and reclaiming your best self.