Doctors have long prescribed opioids to patients to treat pain. Morphine, discovered in 1805, was the first opioid regularly used to treat chronic pain. Codeine followed soon after, and opium-based drugs were commonly used to relieve pain until the late 1800s. The most common ways doctors prescribe opioids are in the form of pills or in a patch. Opioids are a Schedule II controlled substance, which means they have a high potential for abuse.
Opioids interact with the same parts of your brain as other addictive drugs. They flood receptors in your brain, making you feel a sense of euphoria and relaxation, similar to what occurs when drinking alcohol or doing illicit drugs like heroin. However, opioids change how those parts of the brain function by reducing the production of natural chemicals that make you feel good—leaving many patients reliant on the drug.
Opioid use disorder often begins when patients use opioids even after they are no longer in physical pain from a surgery or injury. If you continue to use opioids even when it’s clear they are causing problems in your life, you are likely addicted and should seek treatment.
You may be suffering from opioid use disorder if you meet at least two of the following criteria in a 12-month period:
Opioid withdrawal symptoms include:
If you notice that you or a loved one has become addicted to opioids, you should seek help from a medical professional.
Rehab is an intensive program that usually lasts 28-30 days, depending on the type you choose.
Inpatient treatment is more intensive and requires you to live at the rehab center for the duration of your treatment. Outpatient treatment allows you to continue living at home while attending therapy sessions daily or a few times a week. Outpatient treatment may be a better option for those who have children or other responsibilities that they cannot leave behind.
During this time, you will begin detoxing, and doctors will decide on an appropriate treatment plan for you.
During this period, you’ll learn about addiction and how it affects your body.
This is the most intensive stage of rehab. You will participate in therapy sessions and learn how to live a sober life at the facility during this stage.
This stage focuses on you transitioning back to your daily life. During this time, you will learn how to continue living a sober lifestyle outside of the treatment facility and practice the skills taught in action stage therapy sessions.
Social environments are critical to someone in recovery.
Spending time with family and friends can be beneficial to your recovery. You can also consider finding a support group with people who are experiencing similar challenges as yourself.
During recovery, you’ll need to maintain proper nutrition. This means eating a balanced diet and avoiding foods that can trigger cravings. It’s also important to exercise regularly because this can help reduce stress levels and improve your mood.
You can help someone in recovery by supporting them during good times and bad. Remember that they may slip up sometimes, but this doesn’t mean their recovery efforts are not working. If someone you love is going through recovery, it’s important to remember that opioid abuse disorder is an illness like any other and should be treated with love and patience.
There are a number of steps you can take to help maintain your sobriety after leaving a recovery center.
Aftercare programs are available for those who have completed rehab. These programs allow you to meet with a therapist regularly and help you adjust to your normal lifestyle without relapse. Aftercare plans usually last around 90 days, but they can be longer if necessary.
Group therapy can be highly beneficial for those in recovery. During these sessions, you will share your experiences and learn from others who have been in similar situations. Group therapy can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide support during difficult times.
It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a relapse. These can include:
In some cases, family members can convince a loved one that treatment is necessary. In other scenarios, courts may mandate addiction treatment for those charged with crimes related to substance abuse.
People seeking treatment should look for a rehab center that offers group counseling, individual therapy, and family sessions.
There are several different FDA-approved medications that can be prescribed to treat opioid addiction and prevent relapses, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
According to National Drug Helpline, rehab can cost between $250 -$80,000 depending on the length and type of treatment. NOLA Detox and Recovery Center is trying to remove financial barriers to treatment by making full and partial treatment scholarships available and accepting most insurance plans as well as private payment plans.
If you are someone you know is suffering from opioid use disorder, reach out to the experts at NOLA Detox and Recovery Center. Contact us at (504) 446-1111 or visit our campus to start your journey towards recovery today.
Addiction is not your fault, but it is your responsibility. If you’re on our site, you’re likely facing a critical situation.
We are here for you and committed to providing the care you need.
Call or Text – available 24/7. Admissions by appointment only.
