Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a long-term, treatable medical condition. Like other chronic illnesses, it often involves a long-term relationship with a healthcare team, adjustments along the way, and setbacks that don’t erase progress.

This guide progresses through four common phases of the recovery journey. For each phase, you’ll find an explanation grounded in trusted health sources, questions you can bring to your next appointment, and a quote from a member of MyOpioidRecoveryTeam who has lived through the same experience.

Keep Reading About Starting Treatment

• Methadone Clinics: Finding One Safely and How They Work
• Opioid Withdrawal and Diarrhea: 8 Things That Can Help

Keep Reading About Switching Treatment

• Opioid Use Disorder Specialists: 4 Questions To Ask

Keep Reading About Coping With Relapse

• What Do Opioids Do to the Brain?
• 8 Facts About Opioid Use Disorder That Debunk the Myths

Keep Reading About Hitting Recovery Milestones

• Opioid Use Disorder in Remission: 7 Signs of Recovery

A Note on Safety

If you or someone you know is at risk of overdose, know the signs (slowed or stopped breathing, blue-tinged lips, unresponsiveness) and keep naloxone accessible. If you’re in crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) is available 24/7 in the U.S., and it can also connect you with substance use support.