Supporting Recovery When Nicotine Use Co-Occurs With Alcohol or Drug Addiction.
While our primary focus is comprehensive drug & alcohol treatment, our clinical team can address nicotine use as part of an integrated recovery plan.
What is Nicotine Addiction?
Nicotine addiction is a complex condition characterized by a physical and psychological dependence on nicotine, the addictive substance found in tobacco products such as cigarettes or vapes. Around 8.5% of individuals 12 and older struggle with nicotine dependence in the US.
Nicotine use is especially prevalent among individuals with alcohol and other substance use disorders, often reinforcing addictive patterns and making recovery more challenging without coordinated care.
In treatment settings, nicotine dependence is best understood not in isolation, but as part of a broader pattern of substance use and behavioral conditioning that can affect stress response, mood regulation, and relapse risk.
What To Expect During Nicotine Withdrawal
Nicotine withdrawal begins after stopping or significantly reducing nicotine intake. It typically begins within a few hours after the last use and peaks around two to three days before, gradually subsiding over several weeks.
The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal alone are often not dangerous or life-threatening. However, quitting can still be difficult, especially when recovering from co-occurring substance use disorders such as alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines.
- Irritability/Restlessness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Cravings
- Trouble Focusing
- Insomnia
- Mood Swings
- Increased Appetite
Why Address Nicotine Use During Addiction Treatment?
Medical Supervision
Our clinical team monitors withdrawal symptoms that may arise during treatment and can support nicotine-related discomfort when it impacts recovery from alcohol or other substances.
Personalized Care
Nicotine use is evaluated alongside substance use history, mental health needs, and overall wellness, ensuring it does not interfere with primary treatment progress.
Integrated Behavioral Support
Counseling focuses on stress management, emotional regulation, and behavioral triggers that often occur with nicotine use alongside alcohol or drug cravings.
Temptation-Free Environment
Addressing nicotine use in a structured, substance-free environment can help reduce relapse vulnerability during early stages of substance use treatment.
Nicotine Support Within Our Residential Addiction Treatment Program
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) may be used to reduce withdrawal-related discomfort for individuals enrolled in residential treatment for alcohol or other substance use disorders. Options such as patches, gum, or lozenges are selected based on clinical need.
Prescription Medication
FDA-approved medications may be considered when nicotine withdrawal significantly affects mood, focus, or recovery engagement. Medication use is always coordinated with the individual’s overall treatment plan.
Behavioral Therapy
Therapies such as CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing help clients understand how nicotine use intersects with stress, emotional regulation, and other substance use, supporting healthier coping strategies across recovery.
Peer Support Groups
Connecting participants with peer support groups creates an invaluable network of shared experience and encouragement. Peer support encourages accountability and shared insight, particularly among individuals managing multiple substance use behaviors during treatment.
Co-Occurring Treatment
Nicotine use is often linked with alcohol use disorders, other substance dependencies, and mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Treating these together improves long-term recovery stability.
Integrated Wellness
Services such as massage therapy, yoga, and access to an on-site gym support holistic healing during nicotine cessation and substance use recovery. These help reduce stress, anxiety, and physical tension that often accompany withdrawal and addiction recovery.
Stories of Hope and Recovery
Kevin Carlisle
Rushton Recovery is the best of the best. I have been in Recovery for almost 20 years and have been to several rehabs throughout the years and Rushton is the complete package.
Cassie Williams
As the wife of a client who recently completed treatment at Rushton Recovery, I can’t say enough about the impact this place has had on our lives. From the very beginning, the staff made both of us feel supported, heard, and respected. The environment is warm, professional, and truly focused on healing, not just for the individual, but for the whole family. You can tell the owners and team genuinely care and are in this for the right reasons. My husband came out stronger, more grounded, and filled with confidence and hope. Rushton gave us our life back, and for that, I’m forever grateful. Thank you Rushton!!
Elizabeth
Spending a month at Rushton Recovery was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but the people there made me feel welcome right away. Everyone was super down-to-earth and real. The staff genuinely cared and I never felt judged for sharing my truth with them. I left clear-headed with way more confidence and tools to handle the stresses of life than I had when I walked in. The place itself is clean and calming more like a luxury retreat than a facility. The online pictures don’t do it justice. I am so thankful for the time I spent there to turn my life around. An unexpected bonus is the clients-turned-friends who I now have in my recovery support system. A true win all the way around.
Erik Frost
If you’re ready to make a real change in your life, look no further than Rushton Recovery. This place is, without a doubt, the best in the state. From the moment I arrived, I was met with compassion, professionalism, and a level of care that far exceeded my expectations.
Carter Redburn
Having had the privilege of spending a considerable time at Rushton Recovery, I can attest to its exceptional quality and transformative impact. To start, the owner, is a truly remarkable leader whose dedication sets an unparalleled standard. She is always staying late, ensuring every aspect of the facility reflects her unwavering commitment to those in her care. Her inspiring presence has profoundly influenced me, as she makes me want to be a better person. Her compassion and authenticity is something you do not find everyday.
Chuck Peters
Rushton is an exceptional facility to detox and work on relapse prevention. The staff philosophy is caring not shame. The wonderful large beds and freedom to be outside with nature walks and delicious food, you will not be disappointed. No long med lines or horrible meetings in a stale basement with 25 others.
Stephen Blake
A Heartfelt THANK YOU to Rushton Recovery!
I can’t express enough how grateful I am to Rushton Recovery! The entire team genuinely cares about their clients, and it shows in everything they do. From the stunning property and home to the exceptional staff—including nurses, interns, life coach, therapists, doctor, and even the chef—every aspect of my experience exceeded all my expectations. They treat everyone like family here, making the environment warm and supportive. I highly recommend this treatment center, as my time there truly made a huge difference in my recovery. Thank you again!
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does nicotine support play in your treatment programs?
Nicotine use is addressed as part of comprehensive treatment for alcohol or other substance use disorders when clinically appropriate. We do not offer nicotine detox or smoking cessation as a standalone program.
How is nicotine withdrawal managed during recovery?
If nicotine withdrawal symptoms interfere with recovery, our medical team may provide supportive care such as counseling or medication to help stabilize clients while they focus on their primary treatment goals.
Do you offer treatment for nicotine addiction alone?
No. Nicotine support is available only in conjunction with treatment for alcohol or other substance use disorders and is not offered as a separate service.
Is professional treatment necessary to quit nicotine?
No. Many people quit nicotine on their own and professional treatment is not required to stop using nicotine.
At Rushton Recovery, nicotine support is offered as part of comprehensive treatment for alcohol or other substance use disorders, when nicotine use may affect recovery progress. We do not provide or bill insurance for standalone nicotine detox or smoking cessation services.
Personalized Recovery Solutions in Michigan
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol or drug use, and nicotine use is part of the picture, our admissions team can help determine the right level of care.
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google reviews
Kevin Carlisle
Rushton Recovery is the best of the best. I have been in Recovery for almost 20 years and have been to several rehabs throughout the years and Rushton is the complete package.
Cassie Williams
As the wife of a client who recently completed treatment at Rushton Recovery, I can’t say enough about the impact this place has had on our lives. From the very beginning, the staff made both of us feel supported, heard, and respected. The environment is warm, professional, and truly focused on healing, not just for the individual, but for the whole family. You can tell the owners and team genuinely care and are in this for the right reasons. My husband came out stronger, more grounded, and filled with confidence and hope. Rushton gave us our life back, and for that, I’m forever grateful. Thank you Rushton!!
Elizabeth
Spending a month at Rushton Recovery was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but the people there made me feel welcome right away. Everyone was super down-to-earth and real. The staff genuinely cared and I never felt judged for sharing my truth with them. I left clear-headed with way more confidence and tools to handle the stresses of life than I had when I walked in. The place itself is clean and calming more like a luxury retreat than a facility. The online pictures don’t do it justice. I am so thankful for the time I spent there to turn my life around. An unexpected bonus is the clients-turned-friends who I now have in my recovery support system. A true win all the way around.
Erik Frost
If you’re ready to make a real change in your life, look no further than Rushton Recovery. This place is, without a doubt, the best in the state. From the moment I arrived, I was met with compassion, professionalism, and a level of care that far exceeded my expectations.
Carter Redburn
Having had the privilege of spending a considerable time at Rushton Recovery, I can attest to its exceptional quality and transformative impact. To start, the owner, is a truly remarkable leader whose dedication sets an unparalleled standard. She is always staying late, ensuring every aspect of the facility reflects her unwavering commitment to those in her care. Her inspiring presence has profoundly influenced me, as she makes me want to be a better person. Her compassion and authenticity is something you do not find everyday.
Chuck Peters
Rushton is an exceptional facility to detox and work on relapse prevention. The staff philosophy is caring not shame. The wonderful large beds and freedom to be outside with nature walks and delicious food, you will not be disappointed. No long med lines or horrible meetings in a stale basement with 25 others.
Stephen Blake
A Heartfelt THANK YOU to Rushton Recovery!
I can’t express enough how grateful I am to Rushton Recovery! The entire team genuinely cares about their clients, and it shows in everything they do. From the stunning property and home to the exceptional staff—including nurses, interns, life coach, therapists, doctor, and even the chef—every aspect of my experience exceeded all my expectations. They treat everyone like family here, making the environment warm and supportive. I highly recommend this treatment center, as my time there truly made a huge difference in my recovery. Thank you again!
