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Methadone maintenance is one of the most effective treatments for heroin addiction, but entering treatment is just the first step. It takes time to reverse the neurological changes that occur due to addiction, and to unlearn the behavior patterns that became ingrained when you were actively using drugs.

Learning to live without drugs is never easy, and the longer you were addicted, the harder it is. Even if you’re successfully using methadone to manage your physical withdrawal symptoms, you’ll still struggle with psychological cravings. Like many recovering addicts, you may experience loneliness now that you’re no longer hanging out with your drug buddies. You’ll also struggle to cope with the stress of daily life, since you need to develop or re-develop healthy coping skills.

Whether you’ve already entered methadone treatment or you’re still asking yourself, “Where can I find methadone clinics in my area?” sticking with treatment will require a plan. Make sure you have plenty of social support, take good care of yourself, learn how to cope with stress and cravings, and find new hobbies that provide both a sense of purpose and a distraction.

Read more: 5 Tips to Help You Stick with Methadone Treatment