Recovery
Recovery is possible
Get into recovery
Treatment saves lives and strengthens communities across Alaska. To find treatment, contact 1-800-662-4357 or visit Findtreatment.gov.
Statewide bed availability and treatment locations
Treatment and withdrawal management
People who have been using substances for a long time, in large amounts, or are dependent on a substance may need medical help to safely stop using opioids or other drugs. Not everyone needs withdrawal management services, but these services can help make the withdrawal process safer and more comfortable. To get withdrawal management treatment, a person must be currently feeling intoxicated or experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of withdrawal can include irritability, nausea, vomiting, fast heart rate, fever, and more.
If someone isn't intoxicated or having withdrawal symptoms, the best next step is to see a healthcare provider for an assessment to decide what kind of treatment is needed. Depending on the severity of symptoms, treatment options might include substance use education, outpatient care, residential care, or inpatient treatment. Reach out to your local primary care provider, village health aid, or mental health provider for help finding the right treatment.
Voluntary or Involuntary Treatment
No treatment facilities in Alaska are designed to hold people against their will.
Medications for Addiction Treatment (MAT) and Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)
Medications for Addiction Treatment (MAT) and Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) use FDA-approved medications that are prescribed and supervised by a health care provider.
MAT/MOUD supports people on their recovery journey by blocking cravings, reducing or eliminating withdrawal symptoms, and improving overall health and well-being. MAT/MOUD along with social services and support, foster health and resilience to help people with OUD improve their quality of life.
According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Medications for Addiction Treatment (MAT), and Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) are the gold standard for treatment of OUD.
The medications approved for use with MAT/MOUD are:
- Buprenorphine/Buprenorphine products: (Suboxone®, Zubsolv®, Sublocade®, Buprenex®, Butrans®, Subutex®)
- Methadone: (Methadose®, Dolophine®)
- Naltrexone: (Vivitrol®)
Find out more about these medications and how they work by reading the MAT for OUD section in the MAT guide (see page 36)
Paying for treatment
Private insurance is now federally required to cover substance use disorder and mental health treatment. Many providers accept Medicaid, and some providers also offer payment on a sliding fee scale.
If you don't have insurance through your employer, the fastest way to apply for health care coverage, including Alaska Medicaid, is through healthcare.gov.
If you have coverage questions, call your insurance provider or the Alaska Division of Insurance, 907-269-7900.