After Near-Fatal Heroin Overdose, Assam Man Rebuilds Life Through Rehabilitation

Convener News Desk

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Guwahati, October 23: A 31-year-old man from Assam’s Kamrup Metropolitan district has remained free from substance use for over a year after surviving a life-threatening heroin overdose, highlighting the role of medical treatment, rehabilitation and family support in recovery from addiction.

 

Amit (name changed), a graduate and self-employed individual, was admitted to the emergency department of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Guwahati, with severe respiratory depression following the overdose. He was also diagnosed with Hepatitis C during hospitalisation.

 

According to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, his recovery involved coordinated medical care, opioid substitution therapy, relapse prevention and continued psychosocial support.

 

After initial stabilisation, Amit was shifted to the neuropsychiatry ward, where he was started on opioid substitution therapy using buprenorphine. He also received treatment for Hepatitis C and underwent relapse prevention therapy to address the medical and psychological challenges associated with substance dependence.

 

Following discharge, he continued treatment under medical supervision, including buprenorphine-naloxone medication, counselling, nursing support and regular follow-up consultations. The continued monitoring helped him adhere to his treatment plan and maintain progress towards recovery.

 

The Ministry said Amit’s family played an important role by providing encouragement and practical support throughout the treatment process.

 

A significant milestone came within two to three months of recovery, when Amit secured employment. This helped him resume productive activities, contribute financially to his family and regain stability in his personal and social life.

He has reportedly maintained treatment adherence and abstinence from substance use for more than a year without relapse. As his condition has improved, his medication doses are being gradually reduced under medical supervision.

Amit received treatment and rehabilitation support through the Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) at AIIMS Guwahati. His case highlights the importance of linking emergency medical care with sustained treatment, counselling and rehabilitation to support long-term recovery.

The Ministry said timely intervention, evidence-based treatment, regular follow-up and family involvement can help people overcome substance dependence and rebuild their lives.

Amit’s experience also underscores the importance of accessible addiction treatment services that address both physical health and psychosocial needs, helping individuals regain independence and reintegrate into society. – (PIB)