Opioids are extremely addictive. Doctors write millions of prescriptions for them every year, leading to the abuse and dependence we see in today’s opioid crisis. Even people who follow their prescriptions can develop an addiction. No matter how it develops, an opioid addiction treatment center is always available.
An Opioid Overview
Opioids are partially or fully synthetic prescription drugs doctors use to treat moderate to chronic pain. For example, these drugs include hydrocodone, methadone, and oxycodone.
However, some doctors lump opiates into the same category. These are natural, prescription opium derivatives that also treat pain. Examples include codeine and morphine. Heroin is also an opiate, but it’s an illegal drug.
Both types of drugs affect receptors in the central nervous system. By stimulating dopamine production, they change how people perceive pain and how the brain receives pain signals. The result is a calm, relaxing feeling.
What is Opioid Addiction?
The definition of addiction is a mental disease that alters people’s brains and behavior. They also lose control of when and how much they use. Addiction prevents them from stopping even if they want to.
Initially, they make the choice to use opioids, whether for a health condition or not. The pleasurable effects the drugs cause make them want to continue using.
With prolonged use, the brain develops a tolerance to the drug. The dose that people take no longer has the same effect. Because of this, they have to take more pills or a higher dose to achieve the same high.
Over time, the increased dose actually changes the brain. The urge to take opioids becomes compulsive. The addiction takes control, so people have to seek help from experts in order to recover.
Opioid Addiction Treatment Center
Overall, each opioid addiction treatment center offers something slightly different for everyone. No two people have the same experience because they use opioids for different reasons. Therefore, how their bodies react to the drugs varies. Age and health conditions also impact treatment methods for overcoming opioid addiction.
However, the average opioid addiction treatment center focuses its program around a general progression. It includes an opioid detox program, rehab, and a rehab aftercare program.
The detox process is necessary to rid the body of toxins. However, ending drug use often leads to withdrawal. The symptoms that manifest are painful and could cause complications. For these reasons, people need expert help to ensure their comfort and safety.
Rehab with evidence-based therapy focuses on addressing the cause of addiction and teaching skills to prevent relapse. The types of therapy include one-on-one, group, and family counseling. Therapists use various techniques to help people achieve sobriety. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management are two strategies that they may use.
Holistic therapy plays an important role in rehab as well. It helps people relax and engage in traditional counseling. Massage, yoga, and exercise are a few examples. Other treatments such as art and equine therapy can help people open up as well.
Following rehab, it’s important that people continue building support. Reentering society can make many people feel overwhelmed, and aftercare often smooths the transition. An aftercare plan can include a sober living program at a rehab center. Support groups and private counselors are also good options.
Get Opioid Addiction Treatment at Steps to Recovery
Opioid addiction can wreak havoc on your life. It can destroy your relationships, career, and health. Consequently, some people experience overdose and suffer permanent damage. Getting opioid addiction treatment at Steps to Recovery can save your life.
When you visit our facility, we’ll create a custom treatment plan that focuses on your unique needs. Our treatment center provides many programs and services to aid your journey to recovery, including:
- Intensive outpatient program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Group therapy and family counseling
- Holistic rehab center
- Trauma therapy for addiction
- Sober living homes
Don’t hesitate to get addiction help. Visit Steps to Recovery for reliable, compassionate, and honest care. Contact Steps to Recovery at 267.719.8528 to learn more about our methods and services.