OPIOID DEPENDANCE

What is Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)? Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is a safe, evidence-based treatment for people struggling with opioid dependence (e.gs are Heroine, Codeine, Tramadol, Morphine, Pethidine) MAT combines: Approved medications such as Methadone and Buprenorphine Professional medical supervision Psychosocial counselling and mental health support Harm reduction services MAT helps to: Reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms Prevent relapse and overdose Improve physical and mental health Reduce HIV and hepatitis transmission Restore stability, productivity, and family relationships Opioid use disorder is a treatable health condition ? and recovery is possible. What MAT Entails MAT is more than medication. It includes: ? Clinical Assessment and Safe Induction Clients are properly assessed, screened, and enrolled before starting treatment. Doses are carefully initiated and monitored for safety. ? Ongoing Medical Monitoring Medication doses are adjusted to ensure stabilization and long-term maintenance. ? Psychosocial Support Clients receive counselling, motivational support, relapse prevention guidance, trauma-informed care, and family engagement services. ? Mental Health Screening Depression, anxiety, and psychological distress are assessed and managed alongside addiction treatment. ? Integrated Health Services Clients are linked to HIV testing and treatment, TB services, STI care, and other health and social support systems. ? Human Rights-Based Care MAT services are confidential, non-judgmental, and respectful of dignity. YABS? Role in Expanding MAT Access Youth Awake for Better Society (YABS) plays a key community mobilization role by: Creating awareness about MAT among People Who Use Drugs (PWUDs) Mobilizing individuals who are ready to withdraw from opioids Reducing stigma and misinformation about addiction treatment Providing guidance and referral support Strengthening community?facility linkage We work directly within communities to ensure that those who need treatment know where and how to access it safely. Free and Accessible MAT Services in Ibadan Medication Assisted Treatment services are FREE and accessible at the University College Hospital, Ibadan (UCH), Ibadan. Through outreach and peer engagement, YABS supports willing individuals from first contact through enrollment and continued care. Our Commitment YABS is committed to: Expanding access to evidence-based treatment Supporting harm reduction services Promoting stigma-free, client-centered care Improving health outcomes for people affected by opioid use disorder Recovery is possible. Treatment is available. Support is here.