April 1, 2021

Health Observance

Mental Health Awareness Month

How does Mental Health & Addiction relate? While there are stereotypes in popular culture about what a person suffering from addiction may look like, the reality is much different. Addiction can happen to anyone-even those in our society who we perceive as the happiest, wealthiest, and most successful. The victims of addiction are parents, children, siblings, and spouses. They are often productive, law-abiding citizens who have no experience with crime or drug abuse. Even still, the addictive effects of opioids, drugs and/or alcohol on the brain are often so powerful that many people become physically dependent without intention.

With the recent expansion of our Addiction Medicine Services, Delhi Community Health Center is proud to offer a promising approach to addiction recovery with Medication-Assisted Treatment. This outpatient treatment option uses medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole patient” approach to the treatment of opioids, alcohol & substance use disorders.

Medication-Assisted Treatment consists of three elements:

1) Medications used to manage cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms

2) Therapy or Counseling, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to address underlying issues, specific causes of chemical dependency, and provide the patient with skills to aid in recovery

3) Connection to long-term support that will encourage patients to stay engaged in treatments, reducing the risk of relapse and/or overdose

This comprehensive approach is largely why Medication-Assisted Treatment works so well. It addresses many of the roadblocks that can lead to relapse, while allowing patients to focus on the inner, personal work of recovery.

Dr. Cesar Gonzales, Medical Director

DCHC’s Addiction Medicine Services are led by Dr. Cesar Gonzales, who is a Board-Certified Physician in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Gonzales is committed to providing caring and effective treatment of individuals and their families and to reducing drug use and drug overdoses in our community. He is passionate about helping his patients recover and go on to live healthy and productive lives.

Begin Your Journey to Recovery Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, remember that you are not alone and there is hope. Here at Delhi Community Health Center, we understand that a substance use disorder can happen to anyone- and fortunately, so can recovery.  Our Addiction Medicine Team wants to help you regain your life and freedom.  Call us today at 318-878-8656 to schedule your private and confidential consultation. Lasting recovery is possible. Learn more about our Addiction Medicine Services at www.dchc-delhi.com.