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The ConfidentPatient:Opioid Use DisorderTreatment

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Recovery takes courage

If you're thinking about starting your recovery journey for OUD, you've already made a brave and important step. But we know that keeping up with long-term recovery isn’t always simple. Balancing treatment schedules is a lot, and if you’ve dealt with stigma in the past, talking to a doctor about what you need can be tough.

The good news: this guide can help you prepare for those appointments. By charting out what you do (and don’t) want to discuss ahead of time, you can zero in on the topics that matter most to you.

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Build your team

The longer you are in recovery, the more experience you have advocating for yourself. But just like self-advocacy, asking for help is a sign of strength.

Bringing a family member or friend to your appointment can help you remember questions and keep track of important information. No one available? Your local clinic, hospital, or medical school may have social workers, case managers, or patient navigators who can help. Having someone by your side isn’t necessary, but bringing a teammate to your appointment can build confidence.

There are no wrong questions

You should feel comfortable asking questions in your appointment. In fact, good doctors and trauma-informed programs will encourage you to do so. Be sure to seek out a second opinion if you aren’t being heard or getting the information you need.

Preparing a list of questions ahead of time can help you focus on what matters most. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Exploring treatment options

  • What treatments are available to me at this time?
  • Should I consider inpatient or outpatient treatment?
  • How will you screen and treat other mental health conditions (like depression or anxiety) that might be impacting me?

Understanding your medication

  • Can you explain the differences between oral medications and long-term injectables?
  • If I decide to try a long-acting injectable, how long will it last?
  • Will this medication make it difficult to manage pain in the future if I need surgery or have an injury?
  • How will I know if it’s time to switch to another treatment?

Maintaining recovery

  • How will we monitor my progress and adjust my treatment plan over time?
  • What support services can help my family or loved ones understand OUD and support my recovery?
  • What resources or referrals can you provide for housing or employment to support my long-term stability?
  • What is the plan if I start using again? What should be my first step?

Symptom Check-in

What have you noticed lately?

Between appointments, be sure to jot down any symptoms you want to discuss. Sharing what has changed can be an important piece of the puzzle that helps you maintain your recovery.

In the last month, have you experienced any of the following?

☐ Constipation, nausea, or stomach pain
☐ Trouble sleeping or daytime sleepiness
☐ Headaches or brain fog
☐ Joint pain
☐ Excessive sweating
☐ New tooth sensitivity, mouth sores, or dry mouth
☐ Cravings or thoughts about using

The Check-up

Advocate for yourself

Your care team should meet you where you are. It can be frustrating when a doctor focuses on your past instead of your health.

Feeling judged? Try these scripts to get the conversation back on track:

  • "I know my history is in my chart, but can we focus on how I’m feeling today? I need help with what’s happening right now."
  • "Even though this symptom may seem mild to you, it is affecting my daily life, and I need help addressing it."

Remember, you’re the expert on your body. You deserve a care team that respects your recovery journey.

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