Opioid Use Disorder: A Holistic Guide to Assessment, Treatment, and Recovery

Opioid Use Disorders explores exactly what it says-the increasingly difficult quagmire of Opioid abuse and the impacts on individuals lives. Dr. Atkins describes a consistent approach from the making of a diagnosis, to dealing with different cohorts of patients and how to assist people in their journey toward recovery. Each chapter has an overview of the subject that is being discussed, practical assessment tools and techniques and treatment approaches, including activities that the patient can be highly involved in as a part of their treatment. The patient and family stories used to illustrate a number of different areas of treatment, illustrate both the compelling nature of the addiction and the incredible impact on individual s lives and their families. --Pat Rehmer,, Senior VP, HHC, President of the Behavioral Health Network

Overdoses have lowered the life expectancy in the United States for two years in a row. The leading cause -- opioids. This epidemic has spread through every sector of our country, destroying lives as parents, friends, families, and those entrapped by opioids struggle to find help.

The opioid epidemic is dire, but there are answers -- and recovery is real.

Dr. Charles Atkins, well-known opioids addiction expert, brings together current research, emerging therapies, and non-drug and integrative strategies in a practical guide for both professionals and the public.

- Why a "one-size-fits-all approach" to addiction doesn't work for opioid-use disorders

- Recognizing the signs - when chronic-pain management turns into addiction

- Whole-person treatment plans to help manage cravings, cope with stress, and avoid relapse

- How Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) can save lives

- Opioids across the lifecycle from infants to older adults

- Real stories of recovery, and at times, loss