Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in Connecticut
Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care for Prescription Drug Dependency
At High Watch Recovery Center in Kent, Connecticut, we understand the complex challenges of prescription drug addiction treatment. As the world's first 12-Step treatment center established in 1939, we've spent decades helping individuals break free from dependency on prescription medicines including prescription opioids, sedatives, stimulants, and other controlled substances. Our comprehensive behavioral health programs address both the physical and psychological aspects of substance abuse.
Understanding Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drug abuse has reached crisis levels across the United States. What often begins as legitimate medical treatment for chronic pain or mental health conditions can evolve into physical dependence and addiction, affecting individuals from all walks of life.
The scope of this crisis extends to Connecticut, where residents face significantly elevated risks. The Connecticut Department of Public Health reports that in 2023, Connecticut's age-adjusted rate for unintentional drug-induced mortality was 33.3 per 100,000 populationโexceeding the national rate of 29.1 per 100,000. These sobering statistics underscore the urgent need for specialized prescription drug abuse treatment in our state.
Why Choose High Watch for Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment?
Historical Excellence in Addiction Medicine
Since 1939, High Watch has pioneered innovative approaches to substance abuse disorder treatment. Our prescription drug addiction treatment program integrates the time-tested principles of the 12-Step approach with cutting-edge addiction medicine, offering you the best of both traditional wisdom and modern clinical interventions that address the brain, body, and spirit.
Comprehensive Medical Detoxification with Medical Supervision
Prescription medicine withdrawal can be medically complex and potentially dangerous without proper medical supervision. Our medically-supervised detox program provides 24/7 medical care, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the withdrawal process. Our experienced medical team carefully reviews your medical history and uses evidence-based protocols to manage withdrawal symptoms from:
- Prescription opioids and opioid painkillers (OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl)
- Benzodiazepines and sedatives (Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Klonopin)
- Stimulants (Concerta, Adderall, Ritalin, prescription amphetamines)
- Sleep medications (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata)
- Other prescription painkillers with dependency potential
Opioid withdrawal can be particularly challenging, with symptoms affecting both the brain and body. Our medical supervision ensures that these symptoms are managed safely and compassionately, significantly reducing discomfort during this critical phase of recovery.
Personalized Treatment Planning
Every individual's journey with prescription drug abuse is unique. Our clinical team creates customized treatment options addressing not only your physical dependence but also the underlying psychological, emotional, and social factors contributing to your substance misuse. We treat co-occurring mental health conditions and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder alongside your addictionโrecognizing that behavioral health requires comprehensive, integrated care.
Our Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment Programs
Residential Treatment Program
Our primary residential treatment provides immersive, structured care on our peaceful 300-acre campus in the Litchfield Hills. During residential treatment, you'll benefit from:
- Individual counseling sessions with licensed clinicians specializing in substance abuse
- Group therapy focused on recovery skills and peer support
- 12-Step education and step work with experienced coaches
- Psychiatric evaluation and medication management for co-occurring mental health issues
- Family therapy to rebuild damaged relationships
- Evidence-based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Holistic healing modalities including our renowned Equine-Assisted Learning Program
PHP - The Hilltop Program
Following residential treatment, many individuals benefit from our partial hospitalization program, The Hilltop. This step-down program is designed for guests who have completed a minimum of 28 days of residential treatment and are ready to transition toward greater independence while maintaining daily clinical support. The Hilltop provides structure and accountability as you practice recovery skills in a more autonomous environment.
Extended Care Program
For those who need additional time to solidify their recovery foundation, our Extended Care Program offers long-term residential support. Research consistently demonstrates that treatment duration significantly impacts long-term success. According to Addiction Help, individuals who remain in treatment for 90 days or longer show substantially better outcomes than those in shorter programs.
Guests who complete our Extended Care Program report feeling more confident and better prepared to maintain sobriety upon release. Approximately 95% of our Extended Care guests successfully complete the programโa testament to the effectiveness of comprehensive, long-term prescription drug addiction treatment.
Intensive Outpatient Program - Hope House
Our Hope House intensive outpatient program provides continued support for individuals transitioning from residential care. Set on our working farm, Hope House allows you to maintain employment or return to daily responsibilities while receiving ongoing clinical care, counseling, and 12-Step support.
Sober Living - Eden Hill
Eden Hill, our women's transitional living program, serves as a bridge between residential treatment and fully independent living. With stays typically lasting four to six months, residents practice recovery skills in a supportive, structured environment while gradually reintegrating into their communities.
Evidence-Based Therapies for Prescription Drug Recovery
Successful meth addiction treatment in Connecticut extends beyond residential care. High Watch offers a comprehensive continuum of care and recovery system designed to support long-term recovery through various levels of care:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change thought patterns and behaviors in the brain that contribute to prescription drug abuse. CBT is particularly effective for addressing the triggers and coping mechanisms associated with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches emotional regulation skills, distress tolerance, and mindfulnessโessential tools for managing cravings and preventing relapse.
- 12-Step Integration connects you with a worldwide fellowship of individuals in recovery, providing ongoing support that extends far beyond your time at High Watch.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) when clinically appropriate, combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies to treat opioid use disorder. Our psychiatric team carefully evaluates your medical history and current needs to determine whether MAT could benefit your recovery journey, particularly for those recovering from prescription opioid dependency.
- Trauma-Informed Care recognizes the connection between unresolved trauma and substance abuse disorders, addressing underlying trauma through specialized therapeutic approaches.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions
Many individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse also experience co-occurring mental health conditions. High Watch specializes in treating substance abuse disorders alongside psychiatric illness. Our Director of Psychiatric Medicine and licensed clinical staff provide comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment, recognizing that lasting recovery requires addressing both behavioral health conditions simultaneously.
Common co-occurring mental health issues we treat include:
- Major depressive disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
Our integrated approach ensures that you receive coordinated care for both your prescription drug abuse and any underlying mental health conditions.
The High Watch Campus: A Healing Environment
Recovery happens in an environment that supports healing of both body and mind. Our 300-acre campus in Kent, Connecticut offers:
- Serene, rural setting away from triggers and distractions
- Private and semi-private accommodations
- Nutritious, chef-prepared meals supporting physical recovery of the body
- Fitness facilities and outdoor recreational opportunities
- Spaces for reflection, meditation, and spiritual growth
- State-of-the-art clinical facilities for counseling and medical supervision
What to Expect During Treatment
Initial Assessment and Detoxification
Upon arrival, you'll undergo a comprehensive medical and psychiatric evaluation, including a thorough review of your medical history, current medications, and any co-occurring mental health conditions. If medically necessary, you'll begin medically-supervised detoxification with 24/7 nursing care, physician oversight, and medicines to ease withdrawal symptoms. For those withdrawing from prescription opioids, our team provides specialized care for opioid withdrawal management.
Active Treatment Phase
Following detox stabilization, you'll engage fully in our residential treatment program. Days include individual counseling, group sessions, 12-Step meetings, recreational activities, and holistic therapies. Weekends incorporate community recovery meetings and restorative activities that support healing of body, brain, and spirit.
Transition Planning and Aftercare
As you near discharge, our team works with you to develop a comprehensive continuing care plan. This may include recommendations for step-down treatment options, connection with local recovery resources, ongoing counseling, and aftercare support through our Alumni Program.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug abuse, prescription painkiller dependency, or opioid addiction, compassionate, expert help is available. Whether you're misusing prescription opioids like oxycodone or Percocet, sedatives, stimulants like Concerta, or other prescription medicines, our comprehensive treatment options can help you reclaim your life. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs.
โI wasnโt sure when I arrived if I would do the program, now I am positive I have a new chance to make the years I have left to be sober, useful and enjoyable. I am very lucky to have spent three weeks at High Watch.โ
-Bill R.



