In 2023, an estimated 54.2 million people aged 12 and older needed treatment for a substance use disorder, but only 23% received treatment.
Stigma, unawareness of available resources, and lack of financial and emotional support all deter people from getting the help they need.
The first step is often the toughest, but it’s also the most important. See how to find and start treatment and discover that taking that first step can be easier than you think.
Knowing You Need Help
Think about the extent to which substance use disrupts your daily routine or impacts your mental or physical health. Neglecting work, school, or household tasks? Increased isolation and distance from family and friends? Changes in appetite or difficulty sleeping? Those are some of the key signs that it’s time to seek help.
Finding a Treatment Provider
Outside of referrals, navigating the substance use treatment landscape can seem confusing.
A quick online search for “substance use treatment facilities near me” will generate a list of local providers. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is also a great resource for area treatment facilities.
But finding the right treatment provider is about more than simply locating a place near you. It also involves payment options, insurance, and treatment approaches. Certain providers only accept certain insurance plans and others offer higher-priced amenities. You’ll find an array of clinical environments and more residential settings. At ASAC, we work to provide services to any person that needs help. And we strive to keep humanity at the forefront—both with our environment and process—to fit each patient’s circumstances.
After you search, do some research to understand what an individual facility provides in terms of services and philosophy. Consider also asking family, friends, or people you know who have been through treatment about their thoughts and experiences.
Determining the Right Substance Use Treatment Facility for You
The best way to decide if a provider is right for you is to meet and speak with staff.
At ASAC, you’ll initially speak with one of our patient service representatives.
The next step is a thorough and confidential assessment to determine if treatment is needed. You’ll complete a pre-assessment form followed by an in-person assessment with one of our counselors. Assessments typically take 1-2 hours to complete.
From there, we can tailor services to find the most appropriate and cost-effective plan for you. This might include outpatient services, residential treatment, or medication-assisted treatment.
As for cost and payment, ASAC accepts most private insurances and Title 19/Medicaid (Molina Healthcare of Iowa, Wellpoint Iowa and Iowa Total Care). Our mission is to help anyone confronting a substance use disorder, which is why we offer a sliding fee scale for assessments and treatment sessions based on family size and income.
The goal is to offer accessible treatment, a supportive environment, and a pathway toward recovery.
Erasing Stigma. Finding Strength.
More than 17% of the US public aged 12 and over battled a substance use disorder in the past year. That means you’re not alone. There is no shame in seeking help, only strength in rediscovering your power to get better.
Family and friends can help foster this strength through consistent support. Taking the time to understand substance use disorders, offering encouragement without enablement, and realizing treatment is a process are all ways to aid in recovery. This creates an environment that leads to wins everyone can celebrate.
Treatment Changes Lives
We see it daily. The statistics back it up. And our patients prove it. So many people have a “When I Found ASAC” story, and we love hearing them. Here are just a few quotes from recent patients.
“Thank you for helping me realize I can have a happy life without substances. I found a purpose and came to the realization that what I do matters.”
“Some of the practices and content you shared were things that I knew about, but never leaned into enough. I have found them to be extremely helpful in reducing stress and anxiety while finding peace within my life.”
“ASAC changed my entire life. I got my life back.”
We’re Here to Help
ASAC offers a variety of prevention, treatment, and recovery services—from community outreach and education to individual, group, youth, and residential treatment.
With expanded knowledge, increased awareness, and unwavering support, we can improve lives while changing narratives.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can reach out now.
Sources:
American Addiction Centers
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)