Addiction Treatment with Spravato®: A Comprehensive Guide to Evidence-Based Recovery Options
Addiction affects millions of people every year, making it one of the most pressing public health concerns. However, recovery is always possible with expert and compassionate support. Evidence-based addiction treatment options, including medications such as Spravato (esketamine), can provide patients with a safe and structured path forward. For individuals who struggle with both substance use and mental health conditions, certain medications may help manage symptoms that make recovery more difficult.
At Sanford Behavioral Health, patients have access to a full continuum of care for substance use and mental health disorders, including medical treatment, therapy, and long-term recovery support. This guide provides the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about recovery, explore proven treatment options, and take the first steps toward lasting wellness.
Understanding substance use and addiction treatment
Addiction is recognized as a chronic brain condition. It’s not a weakness or lack of willpower. Just like chronic illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes, addiction alters normal biological processes and requires medical management.
Treatment is not a one-time “cure.” Instead, addiction is managed through ongoing care, therapies, and lifestyle changes. For patients who also experience depression, anxiety disorders, or panic attacks, medications like Spravato may help ease symptoms that interfere with recovery progress.
Medical supervision is especially important for people with co-occurring mental disorders, since untreated symptoms can raise relapse risks. By addressing both addiction and other mental health conditions, treatment becomes more effective and sustainable. At Sanford Behavioral Health, patients benefit from psychiatrist-led care that integrates Spravato with therapy and holistic strategies for long-term healing.
Types of treatment programs
Addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all. The level of care chosen depends on a person’s symptoms, environment, and mental and physical health. Two common treatment programs are residential and outpatient.
Residential treatment
Residential treatment is highly structured, providing 24-hour care. Patients reside onsite, engaging in individual therapy, group counseling, medical care, and supervised detoxification when necessary. For people with severe depression or intense anxiety, medications like Spravato may be integrated with therapy to help stabilize mood while addressing addiction.
Outpatient treatment programs
Outpatient programs offer greater flexibility. Patients live at home but attend therapy sessions, medication management appointments, and support groups during the week. For many, outpatient care includes medication options to help manage mental health conditions while balancing recovery with work or family responsibilities.
Both residential and outpatient programs may include FDA-approved medications when appropriate. Choosing the right level of care begins with an accurate diagnosis during the intake process.
Evidence-based approaches
The most effective recovery plans rely on therapies that have been scientifically proven. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the best outcomes come from combining behavioral therapies with medication.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
This therapy helps patients recognize harmful thoughts and behaviors. For those with co-occurring anxiety or depression, CBT works hand-in-hand with medication to strengthen emotional stability.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
Spravato is part of a growing list of FDA-approved medications that can support recovery. Unlike traditional antidepressants, it works on glutamate pathways, which may ease mood symptoms that often accompany addiction. For people managing both substance use and mental health conditions, this combination can be especially valuable.
Family therapy
Families often struggle with stress, conflict, and relationship difficulties when a loved one is in treatment. Family therapy provides tools to rebuild trust and establish healthier boundaries, while also educating families about the role of medications in recovery.
By combining evidence-based therapies with medication when appropriate, patients can manage both addiction and co-occurring conditions, creating a stronger foundation for long-term recovery.
What to expect from the treatment process
Recovery begins with a structured process tailored to each patient’s needs:
Assessment and intake
Clinicians evaluate a patient’s medical history, substance use patterns, and recovery goals. This step determines whether medications like Spravato may be appropriate.
Mental health screening
Many people with substance use disorders also live with depression, trauma, or panic attacks. Identifying these conditions means treatment can address symptoms alongside addiction.
Determining care level
Based on evaluation, patients may enter detox, residential, or outpatient care. Medication may be introduced at different levels depending on need, always under close medical supervision.
Sanford Behavioral Health emphasizes integrated treatment that brings together medication, therapy, and lifestyle support—helping patients build resilience while managing both addiction and mental health concerns.
Relapse prevention and recovery
Relapse, or return to use, is common but does not mean treatment has failed. It is often a sign that care needs to be adjusted. Medications such as Spravato may help reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression that could otherwise increase relapse risks.
Patients are supported through:
- Developing coping strategies that include stress management, mindfulness, and daily routines
- Alumni programs and peer support groups that offer connection and accountability
- Ongoing medication management, when appropriate, to help patients maintain balance and reduce vulnerability to triggers
At Sanford Behavioral Health, relapse prevention is built into every stage of care. Patients are encouraged to view recovery as a lifelong journey supported by medical care, therapy, and community.
Family involvement in recovery
Addiction affects entire families, not just the individual. When patients also have co-occurring mental health conditions, family support becomes even more important.
Family therapy and support groups allow loved ones to:
- Learn about treatment options, including the safe use of medications in recovery
- Develop healthy communication skills and set boundaries
- Find their own healing while supporting their loved one’s journey
Sanford Behavioral Health provides structured family education and therapy so families can understand how all aspects of treatment fit into the bigger picture of healing.
Finding quality treatment
Choosing the right treatment program is one of the most important decisions in recovery. Quality programs share common characteristics:
- Accreditation and professional oversight to ensure medications and therapies are used safely and effectively
- Insurance and financial assistance to make care accessible for more families
- A full continuum of care that addresses both substance use and co-occurring conditions, such as depression or eating disorders
Sanford Behavioral Health provides integrated care, offering evidence-based therapies and FDA-approved medications when appropriate, to address addiction and mental health together.
When to seek emergency help
There are times when immediate help is necessary. Overdose or severe withdrawal symptoms can become life-threatening quickly. Families should call emergency services if they notice signs such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or unconsciousness.
In a crisis setting, an accurate diagnosis is essential so medical professionals can stabilize the situation and provide the safest care possible. Immediate evaluation helps determine the right next steps, whether that involves medical treatment, withdrawal management, or mental health support. Reaching out right away is always the safest option.
Moving forward with hope at Sanford Behavioral Health
Addiction may feel overwhelming and complicated, but recovery is always within reach. With evidence-based therapies, professional support, and, when appropriate, medications such as Spravato, patients can find relief from both addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions.
At Sanford Behavioral Health, care is guided by medical expertise, compassion, and a full continuum of treatment options. For those with co-occurring conditions, certain medications may help stabilize symptoms and create a stronger foundation for lasting recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling, call Sanford Behavioral Health at 616.202.3326 or connect with us through our online contact form. We are here to help.
