The nature of opioid medications plays a role in how easily they can be abused. Opioids are highly addictive drugs, and it does not take long for the body to become dependent on them. Those who use opioids over a long period of time can quickly become addicted as their body starts to crave more and more for the same effects. Opioid painkiller dependence, abuse, and addiction can even occur unintentionally for those taking them with a prescription for a valid reason.
Fortunately, help is available for anyone struggling with painkiller abuse. If you are seeking painkiller addiction treatment near Columbus, OH, consider Evoke Wellness Ohio. Call 866.430.9267 or reach out to us online to learn how we can help.
Understanding How Painkiller Abuse Begins
The road to painkiller abuse is rarely a linear one. For some, the process of addiction may begin with the recreational use of drugs purchased off the street and taken for their euphoric effects. But in many cases, individuals become addicted to prescription opioids after being prescribed the medication by a doctor for an injury or chronic condition. To understand how painkiller abuse begins, it is necessary to understand the factors associated with it.
One of the most significant risk factors for developing a painkiller addiction is mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. Those who are already struggling with these conditions have an increased likelihood of abusing opioids, in part due to their ability to provide temporary relief from symptoms. Additionally, those who experience trauma or stress are more likely to become addicted to opioids as a form of self-medication.
Other factors that can lead to an increased risk of painkiller abuse include:
- Social environment and peer pressure
- Family history of addiction
- Lack of education about the risks associated with opioid painkillers
- Chronic pain necessitating prescription refills for opioid painkillers
It is important to know the potential risks and side effects of opioid painkiller abuse before beginning a medication regimen or experimenting with them recreationally.
Dangerous Side Effects of Painkiller Abuse
Using painkillers can be beneficial in cases of chronic pain. However, it is essential to remember that even if used as directed, these drugs still carry a risk of addiction and other dangerous side effects.
The most severe risks associated with the misuse of prescription opioids include:
- Respiratory depression – This occurs when breathing becomes shallow or stops entirely due to the effect of the drug on the brain’s ability to control itself. This can be a fatal condition if not treated quickly.
- Overdose – When taken in large doses, opioids can cause a person to experience severe drowsiness, confusion, and even coma. In some cases, an overdose can lead to death.
- Tolerance build-up – Taking painkillers for an extended period of time can cause your body to become tolerant of their effects, requiring higher and higher doses in order to achieve the same results.
- Addiction – Prolonged use of opioids can lead to physical dependence on the drug, which can be difficult to break without proper medical care.
- Other health complications – Long-term misuse of painkillers can lead to various other health issues, such as liver and kidney damage, weakened immune system, and increased risk for certain types of cancer.
It is important to remember that even if taken as directed, opioids still carry a risk of addiction and side effects. It is important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have regarding using painkillers and to ensure that you are taking them safely and responsibly.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Help for Painkiller Abuse and Addiction
The dangers of painkiller abuse and addiction are real, and it is important to seek professional help right away if you think you or someone close to you may be struggling with this issue. Addiction treatment professionals can diagnose the problem and create a personalized treatment plan that best suits the individual’s needs. They also provide support for recovery, including medical monitoring, behavioral therapy, and 12-step meetings. By seeking professional help, you can get on the road to recovery quickly and safely.
It’s also important to remember that painkiller addiction is a complex health condition with physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and economic components. As such, it requires a comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses all aspects of the individual’s life. This approach may include:
- Medical detoxification
- Behavioral therapy
- Individual and group counseling
- Peer support groups
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Lifestyle changes
- Aftercare support
The recovery process is a long journey that can take months or even years to achieve sobriety. It’s important to stay committed to the recovery process and take it one day at a time.
Find Effective Painkiller Abuse Treatment at Evoke Wellness Ohio
Finding the right treatment plan can be a difficult process, especially when it comes to painkiller abuse and addiction. Withdrawal can bring about physical and psychological discomfort, making it hard for individuals to quit without medical assistance. Therefore, seeking professional help is the best option if you or someone you know is struggling with this issue.
Getting help with substance abuse is the first important step toward recovery. Contact Evoke Wellness Ohio today at 866.430.9267 or online to learn how we can help.
