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The Doctors continue their discussion about involuntarily drug treatment facilities and welcome Robin, who says her son Sean Wallace died after he was civilly committed for heroin addiction. Also, we share how someone seeking treatment can go about finding the best facility for themselves or a loved one.
Robin says after her son was committed for treatment, in a program that did not provide him with a medication-assisted detox, which he had been using to treat his addiction. He attempted to leave the facility and he was placed in solitary confinement and restrained. Robin believes these events caused her son to develop PTSD, and lead to anxiety and nightmares after his release. She believes his experience at the facility contributed to her son later taking his life while in jail for trying to break into someone's home.
Watch: Does Prison-Based Treatment Provide Medication-Assisted Detox?
So how can families and individuals find the right treatment center for addiction and avoid the type of facility that is just looking to financially capitalize on the situation?
Clinical psychologist Dr. Judy Ho says to "ask the hard questions" and suggests:
- Not to be fooled by lavish websites or splashy advertisements
- Find out what types of treatments being are offered
- Ask who is on staff and what their qualifications are
- Determine if "evidence-supported treatments" being offered
- Contact and interview 3 to 4 treatment centers before deciding
Watch: How Can We Better Provide Addicts with Treatment?
The Doctors also stress that after-care and an extensive recovery network is a vital aspect of a treatment center.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction please call the confidential and free National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or visit their website.
