Opioid addiction treatment is a serious issue. Opioids are highly addictive drugs that need immediate treatment when addiction sets in. Drugs like this have a powerful effect on the brain and body, changing how it responds to pain and decreasing the likelihood of breathing. Opioids are a significant cause of overdose deaths, and long-term use increases the risk of addiction. Opioid addiction treatment must be sought before the drug takes a grip on life. Contact Ashwood Recovery today at 888.341.3607 to learn more about the dangers of opioids and how opioid addiction treatment can help.
What to Know About Opioid Addiction
Opioids are pain relievers made from the opium poppy plant. These drugs are prescribed to patients to relieve pain but are highly addictive and can cause severe harm. Opioids can be short-acting or long-acting, meaning they can begin to work immediately or take longer to take effect. Short-acting opioids can be prescribed to patients with acute or postoperative pain, while long-acting opioids are reserved for patients with chronic pain.
Several types of opioids are commonly abused, including:
- Fentanyl
- Heroin
- Oxycodone
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that can be 50-100 times stronger than morphine. Heroin is an illegal opioid that is highly addictive and can lead to overdose death. Oxycodone is a pain reliever that can be prescribed to patients with severe pain, but it is also highly addictive when abused.
Dangers of Opioid Abuse
Opioid abuse can begin when a patient has been prescribed the drug for pain management and becomes dependent on it. Dependence can lead to addiction when the patient craves the drug and exhibits compulsive drug-seeking behavior. Opioid abuse can also develop when someone takes the drug recreationally or illegally obtains it. Opioid abuse can have severe negative effects, such as:
- Respiratory depression
- Overdose
- Addiction
The withdrawal symptoms of opioid abuse can be severe and difficult to overcome without addiction treatment.
Signs of Opioid Addiction
Signs of opioid addiction can include physical symptoms such as constricted pupils, nodding off, itchy skin, and slowed breathing. Other signs can include social and behavioral changes such as missing work or school, isolating oneself, lying or stealing, and experiencing financial difficulties.
How to Help a Loved One Deal with Opioid Dangers
If a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction and other negative effects of opioid abuse, it’s essential to approach them with empathy and understanding. Let them know they’re not alone and that you’re there to support them throughout the recovery process. Please encourage them to seek help from a professional opioid addiction treatment center like Ashwood Recovery, which offers individualized treatment programs that address addiction’s physical and emotional aspects.
At Ashwood Recovery, we understand the dangers of opioids and provide comprehensive, evidence-based addiction treatment services to help patients overcome their addictions and reclaim their lives. Our treatment programs include:
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Individual and group therapy
- Family therapy
- 12-step programs
- Alternative therapies
- Aftercare support
Our staff is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to help patients get back on track. We aim to satisfy all our patients, achieve lasting recovery, and lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Find Opioid Addiction Treatment in Idaho at Ashwood Recovery
Opioid abuse is a severe problem that can lead to addiction, overdose, and death. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Ashwood Recovery, we offer compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatment services to help you overcome your addiction and start living your best life. Contact us today at 888.341.3607 to learn more about our opioid addiction treatment programs and start your journey to recovery.