Understanding and Treating the Opioid Epidemic

The U.S. has declared a state of emergency over the current rate of overdose deaths associated with heroin and opioid addiction. Overdose is currently the number one reason for accidental deaths in the US.

This is an alarming statistic and one that has the left the nation searching for an answer to the addiction problem. Many states are losing entire generations to the opioid epidemic, and communities are attempting to overhaul their rehab programs and treatment options available to those suffering from this disease.

What is Addiction?

The American Psychiatry Association defines addiction as, “a complex condition, a brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence.”

People who have an addiction are not weak; addiction is not a choice that somebody consciously makes. Far too many social stigmas surround this disease, making it even more difficult for those suffering from it to seek help.

This is a disorder that centers on compulsion. This means that people who have an addiction will seek out their drug of choice regardless of negative consequences. They may understand that a substance is illegal, but this won’t stop them from purchasing and using it.

Physical addiction to opioids leads to severe withdrawal symptoms. This happens when chemicals in the brain become dependent on opioids like prescription painkillers and heroin to stimulate pleasure centers.

The body stops creating certain chemicals and becomes completely dependent on the drugs to create those feelings of euphoria; before long, the person is dependent on opioids to feel normal. As soon as the drug start to fade from the body, they experience intense physical pain and a myriad of other unpleasant symptoms.

It’s these withdrawal symptoms that often keep opioid-addicted people coming back, regardless of how badly their addiction has damaged their lives. In some instances, withdrawals can become physically dangerous, sometimes even fatal, after prolonged dependence on a drug.

This is why it’s important to seek out professional help prior to attempting any sort of independent detox.

The Effects of Opioids

Opioids mimic natural chemicals within your body. As in opioid is metabolized, it binds to opioid receptors and releases feelings of pleasure and euphoria. This can make someone feel as if everything is all right and release extreme feelings of contentment.

Unfortunately, this is a false feeling. Prolonged use of opioids and related drugs can cause a person to stop following through with their commitments and to neglect their friends and family. The release of chemicals associated with our bodies reward system will become more important than anything else in life.

Many people continue to use drugs and alcohol in an effort to avoid the serious withdrawal symptoms. For people addicted to opioids like heroin or Fentanyl, these withdrawals can start within a matter of hours after their last use of the drug.

Withdrawal Symptoms can include (but aren’t limited to):

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Body Aches
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Seizures
  • Tremors
  • Insomnia
  • Restlessness
  • Psychosis
  • Numerous Other Individual Symptoms

For some, opioid addiction may start with a legitimate prescription. Doctors often prescribe narcotic painkillers, like hydrocodone and oxycodone, for those suffering from acute or chronic pain. Once the need for this medication has ended, some people find that they’ve become physically or mentally addicted to the drug.

When they are no longer able to get the drug via prescription, some people will turn to illegal methods of supplementing their addiction. Others may feel that they suffer from continued pain and make an attempt to self-medicate but find that they become addicted to medications instead.

This is another example of why it’s important to seek out the help of a medical professional before the disease reaches this point.

Treating Opioid Addiction

There are several different methods for treating addiction to opioids and other drugs. Opioid addiction treatment requires a facility that really understands withdrawal symptoms, and what the addicted individual is going through during detox.

Many people who suffer from an addiction to heroin or other opioid’s will require a fully functional medical facility that’s able to monitor them while the drug leaves their bodies. This is the best way to deal with things like seizures or unforeseen consequences from a sudden stop in drug use.

If the withdrawals become too much to handle, they will often relapse and turn back to drug use. Developing an understanding of opioid addiction and Methadone as a treatment option has improved things for many. This has led to the use of certain medications like Methadone and Suboxone to manage to the withdrawal symptoms, and to allow the addict to free themselves of their addiction to illegal drugs as painlessly as possible.

Inpatient treatment facilities are generally the best option for those suffering from an addiction to opioids. These are residential programs that can allow someone to learn to restructure their life without using drugs and alcohol.

Addiction is a disease that impacts the entire family, and this leads to a need for a wider range of therapies. Being in an inpatient facility allows the individual suffering from addict to develop new and better coping mechanisms for the stresses that they’re going to face when they’re released.

They are able to slowly reintegrate themselves into society with the help of trained therapists and ongoing counseling. Some people find that an outpatient facility is beneficial when leaving inpatient treatment. This is a program that still provides many of the same therapies but allows the addict to go home at the end of each day.

Each and every addict experiences this disease in an extremely personal way; no two people will require the same type of treatment to achieve sobriety. Different combinations will work best for different people. Addiction professionals understand this and can customize your treatment plan to accommodate your specific needs.

Developing a strong support network is imperative when trying to stay free of drugs and alcohol. Many addicted individuals discover that they need to completely reorganize their lives away from users that they thought were their friends.

They discovered that they need to change everything from who they associated with to the places where they enjoyed spending time. For some, this is a small price to pay for living a sober and happier life.

Medication Therapy

Medications like Methadone and Suboxone (among others) have been used for decades to help those suffering from prolonged opioid addiction to stop their illegal drug use while avoiding the worst of the withdrawal symptoms.

These medications can only be prescribed by a licensed physician who is fully apprised of the addicted person’s history with drugs and alcohol. The majority of patients taking these medications will need to participate in a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program.

Methadone works by binding to many of the opioid receptors that are used to receiving their chemical cues from other illegal drugs. This stops the symptoms from withdrawals, and also prevents the addict from getting the same type of high if they should try to use illegal drugs again.

The only way that a MAT program can effectively work is if the person suffering from addiction is absolutely willing to participate in every aspect of it. Some people have attempted to abuse drugs like methadone and Suboxone in the past, and lost access to them for their treatment.

The goal of medication created to assist in treating addiction is to help the addict to eventually become completely free of any chemical dependency. They will start out at a certain dosage, and slowly be weaned off of the methadone or other medication as their body becomes accustomed to the levels of the drug.

This acts as a deterrent for withdrawal symptoms and stops the addict from feeling the extreme urge to seek out illegal opioids. For many who are unable to quit without facing strong drug cravings or constant triggers, this method has been proven highly effective.

More communities are working to create these programs and to make them accessible to addicts who would benefit from them.

Recovering from Addiction

The relapse rate for many suffering from an addiction to heroin or other strong opioids still sits between 60 and 90%. This may seem like a bleak number, but relapse does not equate to failure. It’s important to remember that a relapse can be considered a normal part of the recovery process.

As long as the person suffering from addiction is willing to be honest about their drug use, and to constantly seek help when they backslide, there is hope for them to live a sober and productive life. Drug use doesn’t have to be a death sentence, and there are professionals willing and ready to help.

The most important thing that a person suffering from addiction can do is recognize that they have a problem and reach out for help. No one can force an addict to get sober or to understand the way that their problem has impacted their life.

Someone suffering from this disease must recognize the negative implications for themselves, and be prepared to take the first step on their journey to a better life.

cold turkey withdrawal

Heroin Addictions – 8 Reasons Why You Should Never Quit Heroin Cold Turkey

/0 Comments/in /by

Are you or a loved one struggling to overcome addiction and trying to quit heroin cold turkey? Heroin can create such a strong dependence that it can seem impossible to break free. Withdrawal symptoms, like vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, tremors, body aches, and chills can make the process even more difficult.

With all these barriers standing in the way to regaining your pre-addiction life, you may start to feel unmotivated or depressed. However, there are ways that you can quit addiction and get back to living a healthy, drug-free life.

You might want to quit heroin cold turkey, but there are so many risks associated with this method. Instead, seeking professional help is the best way to ensure you safely detox and recover from your heroin addiction.

Do you want to know more? Keep reading to discover the 8 reasons why you should never quit heroin cold turkey.

1. Lack of Methadone

The process of detoxing your body from heroin can be long and awful. Withdrawal can last over a week and include a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms. Among the most common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and anxiety.

These symptoms can make it harder for you to finish the detox process. But, by seeking professional help, you will have easier access to methadone. This can help dull these symptoms and make it easier for you to complete your detox.

2. Increased Risk of Relapse

Without proper professional help and access to methadone, many people trying to detox end up relapsing. Since taking heroin will stop all the withdrawal symptoms, 40-60% of people will relapse at some point during this process.

However, as soon as you discontinue heroin, your tolerance for it decreases. Many people are unaware of this and jump back into doing heroin at the doses they did before attempting to detox. This can lead to an increased risk of overdosing since your body doesn’t have the same tolerance it did just a few days ago.

3. Increased Risk of Dehydration or Malnutrition

Two of the most common physical withdrawal symptoms of quitting heroin are vomiting and diarrhea. What do these both have in common? They are purging your body.

In the process of trying to detox your body from heroin, you are also losing a lot of liquid. This, coupled with nausea, makes it harder for you to stay hydrated and keep food down. Because of these symptoms, you have an increased risk of suffering from dehydration during detox or malnutrition which could require hospitalization.

Quitting drugs cold turkey could put you at an increased risk for this by not having the proper professional help to ensure that you are eating and drinking enough to stay healthy during your detox process.

4. Increased Risk of Suicide and Self-Harm

While the physical symptoms may seem more frightening, there are also some terrifying psychological symptoms to quitting heroin.

You may feel more emotionally unstable while detoxing. This could lead to suicidal thoughts or self-harm. In fact, substance abuse can make you 75% more likely to commit suicide.

If you try to quit heroin cold turkey, you are putting yourself in danger. With no professionals on-call to help you combat these suicidal and self-harm feelings, you will be more likely to act on them.

However, by checking in to a rehab center, you will have access to counselors who are trained to help you handle these psychological symptoms.

5. More Likely to Partake in Risky Behaviors

But an increased risk of suicide and self-harm aren’t the only psychological side effects if you try to quit heroin cold turkey.

Many people going through detox begin to feel emotionally distraught, and their decision-making skills become clouded. Those who are not in the safe environment of a rehabilitation center, may venture out of their house and partake in risky behaviors.

Sharing needles, taking too much heroin, committing criminal acts, and getting into car accidents are all examples of risky behaviors that you may be more likely to partake in. Not only are they risky, but many could result in disease or even death.

6. Dangers of Staying the Same Environment

One risk of quitting heroin cold turkey that you may not have thought of is the danger of staying in your own home.

Staying at home while detoxing can make it harder to stay clean as you probably associate it with where you’ve done heroin before. The best way to successfully detox is to take yourself out of the environment and away from the people you associate heroin with.

7. Less Support and Professional Help

One consequence of heroin addiction is strained relationships with family and friends. However, when trying to detox and recover from addiction, it’s vital that you have the proper support.

All the of negative side effects we’ve listed above can make quitting heroin cold turkey impossible to do on your own. You will need someone to help you avoid drugs, stay hydrated, and make sure you stay safe during this process.

While you may have family and friends who are willing to help, it’s always best to seek professional help. Your family and friends will be a great support system to help you while you’re in rehab, but they have likely never dealt with withdrawal symptoms.

The professional help that’s available at rehab centers can help ensure that you successfully detox and stay safe while doing it.

8. Less Likely to Seek Long-Term Help

Detoxing may seem like the biggest hurdle to overcome on your quest to get clean and stay clean.

However, it’s just as important to partake in a long-term aftercare program. In fact, people who detox from heroin but don’t try to address their underlying substance abuse issues have almost a 100% chance of relapsing.

People who quit heroin cold turkey are less likely to seek these vital aftercare programs.

Instead, detoxing in a rehab center will give you the motivation to continue your journey to sobriety with either an inpatient or outpatient program to address your problem and learn how to deal with it in your daily life.

Should You Quit Heroin Cold Turkey?

Quitting heroin is a long and difficult process that simply can’t be done alone. When you quit heroin cold turkey, you have an increased risk of relapsing, overdosing, becoming dehydrated or malnourished, committing suicide, partaking in risky behaviors, and failing to seek long-term help.

Instead, you should seek professional help where you can have access to methadone, trained counselors, and a safe environment to ensure you successfully detox. To find addiction help near you contact us at (855) 976-2092.

Did you find this article helpful? Check out our detox blog page for more informative blogs such as this one.

 

Sources

[1] Dehydration – Symptoms and causes. (2018, February 15). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086

[2] Drug Addiction as Risk for Suicide Attempts. (2015).  Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4499285/#

Methadone Take Home Privileges – What You Need to Know

/0 Comments/in /by

For the millions of Americans who are in unfortunate situations involving drugs, methadone take home treatment stands out as a beacon of hope. There are plenty of positives surrounding this treatment method, which is particularly useful for those suffering from addiction to heroin and other opiates who struggle to get through the withdrawal symptoms.

There are many wonderful options for methadone near me, with local clinics specializing in this treatment plan that can have a powerful influence on the future of patients’ lives, especially when they’re drowning in their drug addiction and don’t see another way out. Methadone treatment can lay the groundwork for a bigger, better and brighter future.

What are Methadone “Take Home” Privileges?

Whether you or someone you love is considering methadone treatment, it’s in your best interest to be aware of all the aspects of this recovery method. The more you know, the more comfortable you’ll feel and the better chance you’ll have of succeeding in this pathway to sobriety. A great place to start is with “Take Home” privileges, which patients can earn as they prove themselves to be committed and determined to kick their drug habits to the curb. At many methadone clinics, these privileges may include things like a particular dosage or supply of methadone that they’ll be able to use once they return home.

While every clinic may have slightly different rules, and it’s crucial to understand all of the information and guidelines during their stay, or even prior to becoming a patient, generally speaking, most clinics will have take-home privileges of some kind. The ADS Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) – Client Handbook is a prime example, as it explains how patients can earn trust at their methadone clinic and receive take-home privileges. When a patient wants to reduce his or her clinic visits by getting take-home does, the primary counselor will take a closer look to decide whether or not this particular patient meets eligibility requirements. A decision will eventually be made as to award none, or up to thirteen, take-home doses.

How Do I Gain Trust and Earn More “Take Homes” Privileges?

There are more than 14,000 addiction treatment facilities across America, and many of these places operate methadone clinics as well to allow more people access to potentially life-saving treatment. It’s the sad truth that not nearly enough Americans struggling with addiction actually get the treatment and professional help they need, with only 11% of those with an alcohol or drug dependence problem heading to rehab in 2013. This goes to show how essential methadone clinics are in the fight against drug addiction.

Take home privileges are a huge part of this, as doing a good job in rehab and showing one’s commitment and dedication to getting better can result in rewards, and it’s certainly a goal for people to work toward. The more that an individual tries in rehab, and really gives themselves up to the process, the better. In order to gain trust and earn more take-home privileges in the process, people need to follow the guidelines for on-site dosages at the beginning of their stay, as well as participate in face-to-face sessions with healthcare professionals at the clinic.

Other ways to check off the criteria for take-home privileges include being current on any and all financial obligations, as well as maintaining employment, education, volunteer work or home duties. Attending all of the required regular individual and group sessions is a must, too! Behavior is also a large indicator of whether or not a person should be receiving take-home privileges. Those who have aggressive outbursts, negative attitudes, and even recent criminal records may not meet the standards for take-home privileges.

How People Lose their Privileges

In the same way that people can earn their take-home privileges, it’s also quite possible to lose these privileges, depending on how they behave and act during the rehabilitation process. Clinic staff is very cognizant of the importance of only providing take homes to those who are in control and able to handle this, and they will not allow those who are struggling or not taking the process seriously to have take-home doses.

Some of the common ways in which people may lose their privileges include participating in criminal activity, failing to turn up to therapy sessions or counseling and misbehaving or causing trouble at the clinic. Those who show instability in their home environment or personal relationships may be at risk of losing their take-home privileges as well. An individual who refuses to take regular urine tests or fails one of these tests is also likely to lose their take-home privileges.

Time in treatment is perhaps one of the most important rules of all. If a person isn’t coming to the clinic as regularly as required, and it doesn’t seem like they are taking the process as seriously as they should, then they won’t be able to receive take-home doses. It can’t and shouldn’t be understated that take-home privileges are exactly that – a privilege – and they can and will be taken away if people do not follow the rules. This may sound strict, but it has to be in order to protect the health and wellbeing of patients and give them the best chances of success and sobriety in the long run.

Why It’s Important to Follow the Rules and Take Your Methadone as Prescribed

The rules put in place at any methadone clinic are not meant to be stifling and suffocating, but they need to be harsh in many ways so that people truly understand the severity of their problems. Doing drugs and having drug possessions are very serious concerns that can not only harm a person’s health but also their entire future and education, career and family. Methadone clinics and their guidelines are designed with this concept in mind so that patients are forced to confront their demons and understand how dangerous their behavior really was/is.

This is exactly why it’s so important to follow the rules laid out by the rehab center and the methadone clinic. The medical professionals know that these guidelines are necessary for patients to be successful in their recovery journey, and they are also aware that methadone must be taken precisely as prescribed to minimize the risk for addiction and abuse and ensure a smooth transition into sobriety. Patients can always speak to the staff at methadone clinics for answers and clarity surrounding the processes and procedures, but it’s important to respect every step of this pathway to a better life. That way, patients will be more likely to avoid a relapse and come out on the other side, happier and healthier!

Sources

[1] Methadone Program Handbook. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.adsyes.org/methadone-program-handbook/

[2] Results from the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Summary of National Findings. (2014, September). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUHresultsPDFWHTML2013/Web/NSDUHresults2013.pdf

[3] How Do Medications Treat Opioid Addiction? (2018, April 18). Retrieved from https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/treatment/medications-to-treat-opioid-addiction/index.html

How Long Does Opiate Withdrawal Last

Methadone Withdrawal Timeline: How Long Does Detox Take?

/4 Comments/in /by

Congratulations for trying to get off methadone. We wish we could tell you it’s going to be easy, but it’s not. Addictions are a hard cycle to break – but it’s possible.

One of the most common reasons people don’t break the addiction cycle is because they don’t understand what getting sober is really like. They don’t consider the physical withdrawal symptoms.

We’re here to walk you through the methadone withdrawal timeline and give suggestions on how to make it better. We’ll give you tips on each step – but here are some general detox success tips, first.

Detox Success Tips

You’re going to need help when you’re detoxing, in some way. Here’s what we recommend.

1. Tell Someone You’re Detoxing

It’s unlike no one noticed that you were using drugs. Especially if you were on them for a long period of time. Your loved ones or even just one trusted friend will be happy to hear you’re working towards sobriety.

Pick someone (or multiple people) and let them know you’re detoxing. Ask them to come stay with you or check in with you throughout the process so they can provide support.

2. Try to Function as Normal

The first week of detox is the hardest on your body, but also on your mind. Your symptoms are going to make you want to lay on the couch – but you can’t.

If you lay on the couch in discomfort, all you’ll be able to think about is relapsing. Try to go about your daily activities as planned. You can use over-the-counter medication to treat some of your symptoms.

It may not feel great, but it’ll keep you from obsessing over finding more pills.

3. Seek Out Counseling

If there’s an addiction center in your area, it’s a good idea to meet with a counselor there. Many of them have outpatient programs so you can continue to live your life as normal.

Having someone who knows what drug withdrawal is like will help you stay on track.

If there’s not or you have a therapist, make sure they know you’re trying to get sober. They’re there to support you in all your darkest moments.

The Methadone Withdrawal Timeline

Let’s get specific – what happens when that last pill you took wears off and you’re out or you’ve thrown all of them away? Here’s what to expect.

The First Day

Methadone withdrawal isn’t a straight downhill battle. Your first day won’t be quite as hard as the second or third. That’s where the hill peaks when it comes to symptoms.

Your first day you may feel anxious and hazy. It’s normal to experience light flu-like symptoms.

You’ll probably find your heart beating faster than normal, as your body speeds up processes to figure out what’s missing.

If you have chills, a fever, or muscle aches – these are all normal. If your heart or chest starts to hurt – please go to the hospital.

The Second and Third Day (Symptoms Peak)

You’ll probably feel straight-up sick on these days. Whatever happened the first day is about twice as bad on day two or three. This is where most people fall out of the detox process and give in to their cravings.

Don’t be one of them! Use our general tips for success above.

During this stage, not only will you feel feverish, but the psychological issues will kick in. You can expect very strong cravings for the drug and the thought that “it would make all this go away”.

Hallucinations and paranoia are possible, so please make sure you call a trusted companion if this starts to happen. They can keep you from acting on anything if you’re experiencing a lapse in reality.

You may not be able to sleep, either, even though all the mental symptoms will exhaust you. Please don’t take anything strong like Ambien or Nyquil – your body is already trying to process enough.

Finally. you’ll have anxiety and you’ll probably be pretty grumpy. Warn the people you interact with to expect changes in mood. You can always apologize for being snappy later.

While most people peak on day three, it takes others longer. It depends on how long you’ve been addicted and the dosage you’re used to.

Addicts who’ve been on the drug longer or take more milligrams than others have a longer withdrawal period.

Day 4-10

Like we said, you could experience intense withdrawal symptoms for up to 10 days or a week, depending on your usage. But by the end of the first week, you should start to see symptoms subside.

While the physical discomfort goes away, you may find your mental state gets worse. Depression is common among opiate addicts, especially.

You’ve been supplying your brain with an outside-source of dopamine, the happiness chemical. It’s not used to having to make its own.

It’ll take a while for it to kick back into production, and you’ll feel depressed until it does.

Day 10+

We don’t want to scare you, but your depression and cravings can last for months after your last dose. That’s why it’s so important to seek out support.

Family members, people at church or professional counselors are all good people to turn to.

Treating Your Symptoms

Your methadone withdrawal timeline will be different than anyone else. It’s a unique process and you only have to do it once – if you do it right!

Are you about to start detox or are you already uncomfortable? You can make yourself feel a little better with these herbal remedies.

Remember that this is suffering you’re doing for a better future – for you and the people that love you!

Sources

[1] Biology of Addiction. (2017, September 8). Retrieved from https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2015/10/biology-addiction

[2] Heart failure due to ‘stress cardiomyopathy?: a severe manifestation of the opioid withdrawal syndrome. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3760581/

treating fentanyl addiction with methadone

Methadone’s Effectiveness in the Treatment of Fentanyl Addiction

/0 Comments/in /by

When someone is badly injured, they can sometimes have long term chronic pain that can be hard to manage. Fentanyl is sometimes prescribed for pain management so that the person can live a more productive life. Unfortunately, Fentanyl addiction can happen and the drug is often abused by people who aren’t prescribed to take it – this is where methadone can help. This can lead to illness and even death. Understanding what Fentanyl does, how it should be taken and what can be done if you do become addicted to it is important.

What is Fentanyl & How It is Contributing to the Opioid Epidemic

Fentanyl is a pain medication that commonly prescribed by doctors for people who have had an accident or injury that has left them in intense pain. The pain that cancer patients experience is often treated with the medication, as well. It is taken as a lozenge, pill or even as a nasal spray for cancer patients. Individuals who need constant 24-hour pain management often use Fentanyl in the form of a pain patch or an injection. The pain patch releases the medication in small doses over extended periods of time so that there is constant pain relief provided to patients.

Fentanyl boosts chemical dopamine in the body which creates a euphoric feeling and promotes relaxation, to decrease the pain that someone feels. Unfortunately, the euphoric feeling that is created is sought after by those who are prescribed the medication and those who are not. Many people become addicted to the fact that the drug keeps them from feeling physical pain and to the euphoric mental state it puts them in. People who are addicted to other opioids often start taking Fentanyl because it is easy to access and is much stronger than heroin or other opioids found on the market today.

How Bad is Fentanyl Addiction & Withdrawal

Fentanyl addiction can be quite drastic. If you are battling pain on a regular basis, the intensity of the pain can feel quite dramatic when you stop using because you are not only feeling the pain for the first time in a long time, but your body is also feeling withdrawal symptoms. The symptoms can include insomnia, sweating, nausea, stomach cramping, muscle aches and agitation. Unlike most drugs, the withdrawal symptoms with Fentanyl can last for quite a while.

Many addicts battle the withdrawal symptoms that come from a Fentanyl addiction for two weeks to a month. When people try to overcome the addiction on their own, they cannot always handle the withdrawal symptoms they experience as they detox and end up relapsing. This can lead to an overdose because they make the mistake of using again to ease the pain that they feel. When they do the drugs again after not doing them for a long time, they end up overdosing because their body isn’t used to the drugs anymore.

How Methadone Can Help

Methadone prescription medication that can be taken to ease some of the symptoms that come along with detoxing from Fentanyl. It can be taken as a pill, powder or liquid and is designed to be taken for a short period of time. The great thing about methadone is that it can be taken through outpatient treatment programs. That means that you can take it while you still go about your daily life.

Methadone is great for addicts who have problems with relapsing because it minimizes the pain that they feel as they detox and helps them to not be able to get high if they do try to take any opioids while the methadone is in their system. Methadone is very affordably priced and readily available at just about any drug rehabilitation treatment center near you. It needs to be taken as directed and monitored if Methadone is going to be as effective as it can be. You should only take methadone from medical professionals to ensure that the right dosage is prescribed to you and so that you can slowly decrease the amounts that you take so that you can wean yourself from the drug in a safe manner.

Why You Should Consider Methadone Maintenance for Fentanyl Addiction

Many people are fearful to try methadone because they assume that it won’t help them and because they are fearful that they will become addicted to it in place of the Fentanyl. While addiction to methadone is possible, through proper monitoring and other forms of drug intervention treatment, you can use it as a great way to overcome an addiction to Fentanyl.

When you decide you’re ready to stop using Fentanyl, you need to go to see a psychiatrist, as well as take methadone to overcome the addiction. The methadone relieves physical symptoms of addiction that you feel, but you may still have mental issues that need to be addressed. Learning how to cope with the psychological side of an addiction is the key to success. You can learn how to handle triggers that you may feel throughout life and develop coping mechanisms for battling a relapse. You have to take control of your body and mind in order to be able to overcome an addiction to Fentanyl.

It’s important to realize that overcoming addiction of any kind is a process. Do not get overwhelmed and simply give up on your recovery. If you feel that a relapse may be in your future, seek help from outside sources to avoid it from taking place. You can go to an inpatient treatment program to get help for any addiction that you face. Inpatient treatment allows you to be secluded from not only the drugs but other factors in life that could lead to a relapse. Within the treatment program, you can take methadone to help minimize the withdrawal symptoms that you experience as you detox and get help from medical professionals. To learn how to cope with the stresses that come with overcoming drug addiction reach out (855) 976-2092.

Sources

[1] Methadone Fast Facts. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs6/6096/

[2] NIDA. (2016, June 6). Fentanyl. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/fentanyl on 2019, February 20

[3] Fentanyl Withdrawal | Dual Diagnosis. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.dualdiagnosis.org/fentanyl-risks/withdrawal/

[4] Featured News: Methadone Appears Safe and Effective in Treating Fentanyl Addiction: Study ? Partnership News Service from the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. (2018, July 4). Retrieved from https://drugfree.org/learn/drug-and-alcohol-news/featured-news-methadone-appears-safe-effective-treating-fentanyl-addiction-study/

 

opioid public health emergency

Is Overprescription of Opioids to Blame for the Opioid Epidemic?

/30 Comments/in /by

The overprescription of opioids is a big problem in the USA. Drug overdoses killed 63,632 Americans in 2016 and around two-thirds of these deaths involved opiates.

So why are these drugs still being overprescribed to this day? This is a highly complex problem with a lot of different factors at play.

An Authoritative Source

One of the big factors in the prescription opioids problem is that people are prescribed these drugs from an authoritative source. People trust their doctors to make the right medical decisions. Therefore, they might not be aware of the risks of opiate medication.

Some people who abuse opiate medications might not even realize they have a problem. They might only become aware when something serious happens, such as an overdose or withdrawal.

Another big factor in the opiate epidemic is the fact that these drugs are so easy to consume. Unlike a lot of illicit street drugs, you simply consume these prescription opioids in pill form. This has led to many people assuming these drugs are safe.

Just because you’re not snorting or injecting these drugs doesn’t mean they aren’t dangerous.

Why the Overprescription of Opioids?

There are a few factors that have influenced the overprescription of opioids in the United States.

For instance, many doctors were mistakenly taught that patients who were in pain could not get addicted to pain medication. It was believed that once their pain stopped, a patient would simply stop using the drugs.

Unfortunately, this was not true, and many patients would continue using opiates long after their pain had subsided. If their legitimate supply was cut off, many users would then start looking for opiates on the street. Many heroin users in the USA today started off with prescription painkillers.

Another factor in opioid dependence is the aggressive marketing from the pharmaceutical companies. In recent years, these companies have spent much more money promoting their opioid products.

This kind of “direct to the customer” marketing has only reinforced the belief that these drugs are good for you and won’t cause any problems. Thankfully, steps are now been taken to rein in advertising for prescription opioids.

Easy Drug Availability

Another factor in the epidemic is it’s just too easy to get a hold of these pills. Many users have learned how to fake symptoms in order to get a legitimate painkiller prescription. And other people might go to multiple doctors at once to get more pills.

Some might use these pills recreationally and others may sell them on the street. The wide availability of these pills and the perception amongst the public that they are “safe” has contributed heavily to the opiate problem in the United States.

All Opiates Lead to Heroin

One of the big problems with prescription painkillers is users will eventually switch to more dangerous alternatives, such as heroin. Heroin belongs to the same class of drugs as opiate painkillers and it becomes the drug of choice of most long-term users.

This is because heroin is cheaper and the high it provides is much more intense. It is also easier to get than prescription painkillers. Someone who’s had their prescription supply cut off is likely to turn to heroin.

Shockingly, there is evidence to suggest that heroin might be a safer alternative. In 2014, for instance, the overdose rates for prescription painkillers were twice as high as the overdoses on heroin.

What Can Be Done?

There are a few steps to take that could help combat the overprescription problem.

One of the main issues is patients need education. No one should be prescribed opiates without understanding exactly what they’re getting into. Patients should be aware of the addictive potential of these drugs.

Another factor is doctors themselves need to be aware of the addiction potential for these drugs. This is a difficult problem to address, as there is a fine line between pain management and addiction. Every case needs to be carefully considered.

Doctors need to consider pain management alternatives. Any patient who is prescribed opiates needs to have their usage levels monitored carefully.

A Complex Problem

When it comes to the overprescription problem, there are many factors at play.

For instance, those from a lower socioeconomic background are significantly more at risk. Level of education has also been shown to be a key factor. Those who’ve attained a higher level of education are significantly less likely to get a prescription for opioids.

It has also been shown that geography has an influence on prescription rates. The more rural areas of the United States, such as the Southeastern States and the Northwest, have much higher rates of prescription painkiller overdoses than other areas.

Non-Opiate Alternatives

So what are some alternatives to prescribing these kinds of pills?

There are many choices other than opioids. Medical marijuana, for instance, can be a less harmful alternative. Cannabis provides patients with effective pain relief but is significantly less addictive than opiates.

Medical marijuana is also a desirable alternative because it can’t be overdosed on. There is even evidence that CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, is a good way to treat opiate addiction.

There needs to be a good support system in place for people who develop opiate addictions. If someone is seriously addicted to opioids, a methadone treatment program might be one of the only ways they can recover.

Methadone treatment allows an addict to safely withdraw from opiates. It also means the addict will not have to experience all of the debilitating withdrawal symptoms.

Avoid the Use of Opioids

There is no question that prescription opiates are being overused in the United States. Despite being legal, these drugs have huge potential for abuse and addiction.

Thankfully, steps are being taken against the overprescription of opioids epidemic. Both the public and healthcare professionals are becoming increasingly aware of the harm these drugs can cause.

Are you or a loved one suffering from opioid addiction and want to turn your lives around? Read about how methadone treatment can help or contact us at (855) 976-2092.

Sources

[1] U.S. drug overdose deaths continue to rise; increase fueled by synthetic opioids | CDC Online Newsroom | CDC. (2018, September 24). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2018/p0329-drug-overdose-deaths.html

[2] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019, January 29). Overdose Death Rates. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates

mindfulness addiction

Why Is Mindfulness Important? How Mindfulness Meditation Can Help You Beat Opioid Addiction

/11 Comments/in /by

Are you curious about the relationship between mindfulness and addiction recovery?

The term “mindfulness” has been tossed around a lot lately. Many people assume that mindfulness is only for Buddhist monks and yoga practitioners.

However, the concept of being mindful can apply to all aspects of our lives. Mindfulness can help us navigate medical issues, relationships, and mental health with greater ease.

But why is mindfulness important when it comes to addictions?

In this post, we look closely at the ways practicing mindfulness can aid in opioid addiction recovery.

What is Mindfulness?

“Being mindful” generally means being more aware. But what does it mean to practice awareness?

We are aware when we are able to closely observe the life around us–including our own. What’s more, true mindfulness is awareness without judgment.

A great way to understand mindfulness is through meditation.

Contrary to popular belief, meditation is so much more than just ‘clearing the mind.’

When meditating, people embody stillness. They do this by physically sitting still (or lying down). They also practice observing the mind’s activity without directly engaging with that activity.

Through this stillness, meditation may actually quiet or ‘clear’ the mind. It can also enable meditators to focus on something else, like their breathing. Meditators may also internally repeat a mantra, a key phrase or word.

Mantras and breathing practices can encourage greater awareness in the present moment–without judgment or emotional attachment.

Mindfulness, then, is much the same. It means moving about our day-to-day lives with more awareness of our actions, our feelings, and our environment.

It also means being more intentional in general. When we are deliberate about our actions, we tend to act from a space of awareness.

You can practice mindfulness in hundreds of ways, including meditation. You can be mindful when eating, for example, or cultivate mindfulness through yoga, tai chi, and exercise.

Indeed, mindfulness is more a lifestyle than an activity!

Mindfulness and Addictions

So why is mindfulness important when it comes to addictions?

Physical and Psychological Dependency

Let’s think about what addiction actually is. When someone is addicted to a substance or a behavior, he or she is said to “depend” on that thing.

When it comes to substance addiction, this dependency is often extremely physical. Addicts may experience severe and painful withdrawal symptoms if they become too dependent on a certain substance.

These withdrawal symptoms launch a vicious cycle of dependency. In many cases, the easiest cure for these symptoms is more of the substance itself.

Yet addictions aren’t always purely physical. In many ways, they also involve psychological elements.

This is especially true when it comes to behavioral dependencies, such as sex addictions.

Being Mindful

Luckily, mindfulness can aid with both physical and psychological dependencies.

One of the first steps to change, after all, is awareness. Recognizing and acknowledging a dependency often has to happen first before an individual can seek help.

Yet it can take time to get to that point. Many addicts experience no small amount of shame in admitting a dependency. Others may not believe help is an option.

That’s where mindfulness comes in. Cultivating greater awareness of how you are experiencing an addiction can make it easier to actually claim that addiction.

Individuals can cultivate awareness in a variety of ways. They can use meditation, for example, or even a vigorous run to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.

They can also learn more about the nature of their dependency–what may be lurking underneath the surface.

All of these actions serve to empower addicts, helping them to understand themselves and their addictions.

How to Be Mindful When Recovering From Addiction

How can you be mindful when you are recovering from an addiction?

Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

1. Practice Awareness Without Judgment

This is essential when it comes to addiction recovery. Addictions often perpetuate or exacerbate self-judgment.

As you recover from an addiction, you may be experiencing negative self-talk.

You may also be questioning your ability to recover. Some people experience judgment from friends and family members as they seek treatment.

Practice mindfulness by observing things without judgment. Meditation practices can help in this regard.

If you do find yourself judging how you are feeling, practice acknowledging that judgment–and then try to let it go.

Avoid the impulse to analyze. Save that for a counseling couch!

2. Use Deep Breathing

There’s a reason why a lot of yoga practitioners emphasize the value of deep breathing. Paying attention to our breath is a great way to stay grounded in the present moment.

It can also help us become more mindful, if only for a handful of minutes.

Use deep, steady breathing to practice mindfulness. This can be valuable when you are experiencing turbulent emotions or intense withdrawal symptoms.

It can also be helpful if you are having trouble falling asleep, curbing cravings, or talking with loved ones.

3. Be Physically Mindful

It’s important to take care of your body as you are recovering from any addiction. Practice physically mindful habits to ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible.

This means eating nourishing, healthy food. It may also mean exercising as much as possible (without overdoing it).

You may wish to do body scans to check in with how you are feeling in any given moment. These can be really useful when it comes to working through emotions or withdrawal symptoms.

Why is Mindfulness Important?

Why is mindfulness important when it comes to addiction recovery? Recovering from an addiction can be psychologically and physically challenging.

Mindfulness means awareness. Practicing non-judgmental awareness of your recovery process can ensure a safe and intentional healing process.

It can also make sure you are giving your body the love it deserves during this difficult time and help to reduce stress. Being mindful can make it easier to transition to a treatment center or program. It can even help with your relationships during this time.

What’s more, mindfulness habits can supplement an existing treatment plan, including using methadone. Curious about how methadone can help you or a loved one recover from opioid addiction?

Learn more here or give us a call at  (855) 976- 2092!

References

Inner IDEA. (n.d.). Meditation 101: Techniques, Benefits, and a Beginner’s How-To. Retrieved from GAIAM.COM: https://www.gaiam.com/blogs/discover/meditation-101-techniques-benefits-and-a-beginner-s-how-to

Astin J, A: Stress Reduction through Mindfulness Meditation. Psychother Psychosom 1997;66:97-106. doi: 10.1159/000289116 Retrieved From: https://www.karger.com/article/abstract/289116

signs of opioid abuse

On Watch: How to Spot Opioid & Opiate Addiction Symptoms

/3 Comments/in /by

The effects of the opioid crisis in America are devastating. In fact, they can quite literally destroy lives.

It’s estimated that 115 people in the US die every day as a result of overdosing on opioids.

If you’re worried that someone you know may be caught in the clutches of opioid addiction, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll tell you what signs to look out for, so that you can take action.

Read on to find out what the most common opiate addiction symptoms are.

Opiate Addiction Symptoms Explained

Here are the main signs of opiate abuse and how to deal with them.

Immediate Side Effects

The first thing to look out for is the immediate side effects of opiates. This way, you’ll be able to identify if someone has taken them recently.

After opiate abuse, the skin appears flushed and becomes irritable. A red, itchy face may not be cause for concern on its own, but combined with some of the following side effects, it could be.

There’s also a sense of euphoria, which can come with hallucinations and impaired judgment. Breathing can become slow and shallow as the heart rate decreases, too.

These side effects also include digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation. If someone is taking opiates in the prescribed dosage, these effects should be minimal. However, if they occur frequently and severely, they can signal abuse or addiction.

Changes in Appearance

Opiate abuse doesn’t always create the drastic physical changes that other drugs, like methamphetamines, do. Still, they can cause a person to look very different over time.

The most noticeable way that this happens is through weight loss.

Since these drugs cause nausea, they suppress the appetite. Vomiting and constipation also mean that the body struggles to process food correctly and absorb the nutrients it needs. Over time, this can cause body weight to drop significantly.

The body can also become fatigued as a result of opiate abuse, and this leads to changes in metabolic rate. If a person doesn’t experience any other side effects, this can cause them to go in the other direction and gain weight instead.

Either way, drastic changes in weight are something to look out for.

If a user is injecting the drugs, you may also be able to notice needle marks on their arms or legs.

Physical Symptoms

There are a number of physical changes that addicts can experience, too.

These drugs can cause increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli. This means that they may become easily irritated by sounds, smells, and physical touch.

In fact, they can cause overall alertness to be dramatically increased. Someone who is using opioid regularly may seem to have increased energy levels and become hyper-vigilant about things that didn’t seem to matter to them before.

This alertness can cause the heart rate and blood pressure to rise, too.

These symptoms can also occur during opioid withdrawal. At this stage, they can be much more dangerous. In the worst cases, the danger of withdrawal can even be fatal.

Sometimes, addicts also experience blurred vision. If you notice that someone you know is complaining of these physical symptoms, look out for some of the following changes in their mood and behavior to get an idea of the bigger picture.

Psychological Symptoms

The effects of these drugs aren’t just physical. The psychological effects of opiates can also have a huge impact on the brain and mental health.

To begin with, people can experience irritability and a lack of motivation. They may stop fulfilling their responsibilities and even completely lose interest in the hobbies and activities that they used to enjoy. Eventually, they may withdraw from social interactions more and more.

There is even a link between depression and opioid use. It’s not just that they can cause it. In fact, people who suffer from depression are more susceptible to opioid addiction. This means that the effects go both ways.

They can also cause anxiety. This may appear in subtle, general ways. However, in some cases, it can lead to anxiety attacks or panic attacks.

One of the pain-killing effects of opioids is euphoria, and this is part of what makes the drugs so addictive. In severe cases, some addicts experience drug-induced psychosis, which can appear similar to the symptoms of mental health disorders like schizophrenia.

Behavioral Symptoms

Opioid addiction often starts as a harmless endeavor to seek relief from pain after surgery. As people take it more, their bodies build up a tolerance and they can start to feel as though they need more in order to get the same effects.

This is one of the ways it can change a person’s behavior. If someone is taking the drugs more frequently or in larger doses, it could be a red flag. They may seek out extra drugs by visiting multiple doctors, claiming to need replacement prescriptions, or even stealing them.

This isn’t the only way opioids can alter a person’s behavior. They can also cause changes in sleeping patterns, causing people to sleep far more or less than usual, or at completely different times to their usual routine.

They can also cause people to become more impulsive, making decisions or taking action without thinking. This can lead to risky behaviors, which can put themselves or the people around them in danger.

An opioid addict’s mood can become very volatile, and they may tend to experience rapid mood swings, seemingly going from one extreme to another.

Get Treatment

If you’ve noticed these opiate addiction symptoms in someone you know, the next step is to take action.

Thankfully, you don’t have to do it on your own.

There are plenty of options available for those who are struggling with addiction. Learn what you need to know about the variety of options by contacting (855) 976-2092. Specialist rehabilitation centers can help with interventions, providing both in-patient and out-patient services.

Therapy, workshops and group counseling, can help to tackle the root of the issue, while methadone can be used to treat the addiction itself.

To find out more, read our post on the methadone treatment success rate.

 

References

[1] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019, January). Opioid Overdose Crisis. Retrieved from DrugAbuse.Gov: https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids/opioid-overdose-crisis

[2] Kathleen Smith, P. (2018, November 25). Depression and Opioid Abuse. Retrieved from Psychom.net: https://www.psycom.net/depression.central.opioid.abuse.html

[3] Purdue University. (2018, October 3). Opioid overdoses, depression linked. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181003162709.htm

opioid brain

This Is Your Brain on Opioids: Your Complete Guide to Opioid Effects on the Brain

/0 Comments/in /by

Every year, millions of Americans receive prescription opioid painkillers to treat pain associated with a variety of conditions. And, every day, an average of 115 Americans die from an opioid overdose.

Clearly, the United States has an opioid issue.

What actually are opiates, though? How do they affect the brain? What can one do to overcome opioid addiction?

Read on to learn more about opiates and opioid effects on the brain.

What are Opiates?

You know that opiates are a type of drug. But, what makes them different from other types of painkillers? Why are they so dangerous?

Opiates are a narcotic drug derived from compounds extracted from the opium poppy flower.

Opiates Vs. Opioids

The terms “opiates” and “opioids” are often used interchangeably, but what is the difference between opioids and opiates?

The term “opiates” refers to drugs that are derived directly from the opium poppy flower.

The term “opioids,” on the other hand, refers to synthetic formulations of these drugs.

Both opiates and opioids are most frequently used to relieve pain (some are also used as cough suppressants). Opiates and opioids are both highly addictive and are frequently abused.

Most Frequently Abused Opiates and Opioids

These days, especially in the United States, opioid drugs are more commonly abused than opiates derived directly from the opium poppy plant.

Some of the most commonly abused opiates and opioid drugs include:

  • Codeine
  • Demerol
  • Dilaudid
  • Fentanyl
  • Heroin
  • Hydrocodone
  • Lortab
  • Morphine
  • Oxycodone
  • Oxycontin
  • Percocet
  • Tramadol
  • Vicodin
  • Zydone

No matter what they’re being used to treat, all of these drugs are highly dangerous and habit-forming.

What are Opioid Effects on the Brain?

What makes opioid drugs so addictive? The main reason opioid drugs seem to be so addictive is the fact that they affect the brain differently than other types of painkillers.

Opioid Receptors in the Brain

Everyone has opiate receptors in their brains, spinal cords, and in other locations throughout the body. These receptors function as active sites for various types of opiates.

Why does the brain have these receptors? Because the body produces its own endogenous neurotransmitters that bind to them to help relieve pain.

In most cases, these endogenous neurotransmitters are sufficient for blocking pain signals. Sometimes, these neurotransmitters are not enough, though.

The body isn’t able to produce enough natural opioids to provide relief for severe or chronic pain. If someone is struggling with either of these issues, their doctor may prescribe them an opioid drug like OxyContin to minimize their pain.

Opioids and Opioid Receptors

Opioid drugs activate the brain’s opioid receptors because their chemical structure mimics the structure of the body’s endogenous neurotransmitters.

Because the structure is so similar, it tricks the opioid receptors and relieves pain.

Opioids do more than just bind to the opioid receptors, though.

Regular opioid use also leads to an increase in the availability of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that leads to increased feelings of pleasure.

Many people who consume opioids find that they enjoy this increase in dopamine availability. As a result, they continue to seek it out and continue taking opioid drugs.

It’s true that opioids are highly effective at treating pain. But, because they increase dopamine availability, they’re also very habit-forming.

Many people find that they develop a tolerance to the drugs over time. This, in turn, creates a need for a larger dosage in order to experience the same effects.

Signs of Opioid Addiction

Once an individual has become dependent on opioid drugs, when they go too long without using them, it’s common for them to experience a range of withdrawal symptoms.

Some of the most frequently experienced withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Abdominal cramps
  • Nausea
  • Digestive issues like diarrhea and vomiting
  • Excessive sweating
  • Fatigue
  • Seizures
  • Fever
  • Muscles aches and pains

The experience of withdrawal symptoms is one of the most common signs that an individual is dealing with addiction to opiates. Some other signs of addiction include:

  • Mood swings
  • Changes in judgment
  • Changes in energy levels
  • Sleep changes

If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to know that opioid addiction can be overcome. It may not be easy, but it’s definitely possible.

Overcoming Opioid Addiction

What does one do to overcome opioid addiction?

There are several different approaches people use to overcome their addiction, including the following:

Long-term Treatment

In a long-term treatment facility, an individual who is struggling with opioid addiction will receive 24-hour care.

Long-term treatment usually lasts for several months and takes place in a non-hospital setting.

During long-term treatment, an addict will work with medical and mental health professionals to safely detox and learn new ways to cope with stress and triggers to prevent relapse.

Short-term Treatment

As the name suggests, short-term treatment takes less time and usually lasts several weeks instead of several months.

It is typically modeled along the lines of the 12-step addiction recovery approach.

Most people who go through short-term treatment for opioid addiction also need to continue their treatment in an outpatient program.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is typically less expensive than other treatments methods. It’s a good option for those who can’t afford long- or short-term care. It also works well for individuals who work full-time or have extensive familial responsibilities.

Some outpatient programs involve just drug education. Others involve more intensive treatment options, including counseling and access to medication.

Medications

There are many medications that help minimize withdrawal symptoms and lessen the risk of relapse.

Some of the most well-known medications include:

  • Methadone
  • Buprenorphine
  • Naltrexone

No matter what type of treatment program an addict goes through, medication can be a helpful component.

Want to Learn More?

For many people, being informed about opioid effects on the brain is very empowering.

It can help them recognize signs of addiction and figure out when they or someone they love needs to seek help.

Do you want to learn more about opioid effects on the brain? Or, do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction in general?

No matter what kind of information about opioids you’re looking for, our site is a great resource.

Start by checking out our opioid addiction blog posts today.

 

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018, December 19). Understanding the Epidemic. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov: https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/epidemic/index.html

Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission. (2019, February). Opiates or Opioids – What’s the difference? Retrieved from Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission: https://www.oregon.gov/adpc/Pages/Opiate-Opioid.aspx

 

 

celebrity eminem in recovery

Celebrities on Heroin: How They Kicked the Habit

/20 Comments/in /by

Two years ago, in 2016, around 948,000 Americans used heroin.

The drug makes users forget their pain and feel warm and relaxed. However, heroin is highly addictive and many people quickly find themselves addicted.

Although many of us hold a very harsh view of heroin addicts, there are many high-functioning users who go unnoticed by society.

People often start taking the drug as a way to feel better and escape reality. Unfortunately, recovery can feel nearly impossible.

In this article, we’ll look at celebrities on heroin and what these famous addicts did to recover.

1. Eminem Started Running

This American rapper has often spoken about his drug addiction and canceled a tour in 2005 to go to rehab. Eminem later revealed that at one point during his addiction, every single day, he was taking around sixty Valium and thirty Vicodin pills.

In 2007, for Eminem methadone overdose almost took his life, when he passed out in his own home and almost died.

He explains: “The doctors told me I’d done the equivalent of four bags of heroin… They said I was about two hours from dying… Had I got to the hospital about two hours later, I would have died.”

Even after this experience, Eminem relapsed one month later. But, it was this that helped him decide to radically change his life. His love for his three children also ultimately inspired him to get clean and be a good father.

Recovery wasn’t easy and he explains that he still had an “addict’s brain.” His chosen way to overcome addiction was to turn to exercise.

Eminem explains how he would wake up in the early morning and run for eight and a half miles before going into the studio. He would then do the same in the evening.

This year, he celebrates 10 years drug-free.

2. Nicole Richie Made a “Difficult Decision”

Reality TV star and daughter of Lionel Richie, Nicole Richie’s cocaine use started at the age of 18. She believes that growing up privileged led her to a life of drug-taking as nothing excited her anymore.

As well as being an addict, Richie also suffered from an eating disorder. Although she went to rehab and received treatment, she soon relapsed.

Not long after this treatment, Richie began using heroin. The situation only got worse when she was arrested for being in possession of the drug in 2003.

However, she explains that she made the difficult decision to come off the drugs herself. She also began seeing a doctor and nutritionist.

It seems that she successfully turned her life around. In 2008, Richie became pregnant with her first child and her second came along in 2009.

However, she now has the problem of how to explain her drug addiction to her children. She said: “We’re starting with, ‘Mummy got grounded a lot.'”

3. Angelina Jolie Became a Humanitarian

Actress Angelina Jolie’s dark past isn’t news to anyone. Most will remember the time she and her then-boyfriend, Billy Bob Thornton, wore vials of each other’s blood in necklaces.

But, she now believes herself to be very lucky to be alive. She told 60 Minutes: “I went through heavy, darker times and I survived them. I didn’t die young, so I’m very lucky. There are other artists and people who didn’t survive certain things.”

Jolie now believes that part of her problem was that she was self-absorbed and naive of the world. This realization helped her kick the drug habit for good.

What changed her life for the better was becoming a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR).

She now works as a humanitarian and filmmaker. She is also mother to six children, three of whom she adopted.

Jolie now focuses on living a healthy lifestyle and has reportedly taken up kickboxing to help her deal with the split from Brad Pitt.

4. Russell Brand Takes One Day at a Time

British comedian, actor, and activist regularly speaks about his addiction. He has recently written a book called Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions which runs through the 12 steps followed by Alcoholics Anonymous in an entertaining manner.

Brand started using drugs when he was a teenager. He has famously been addicted to heroin, crack, alcohol, chocolate, and sex.

Describing what it’s like to be a heroin addict Russell Brand says: “I cannot accurately convey to you the efficiency of heroin in neutralizing pain. It transforms a tight, white fist into a gentle, brown wave. From my first inhalation 15 years ago, it fumigated my private hell and lay me down in its hazy pastures and a bathroom floor in Hackney embraced me like a womb.”

Now, he has now been sober for 15 years. However, it has by no means been easy to “kick his habits” and Brand often speaks candidly about his own experiences in the hopes of helping others.

He explains that giving up drugs and alcohol requires “incredible support and fastidious structuring” and that recovery can only be taken one day at a time.

Brand explains how support fellowships were his lifeline during recovery and he has found new ways to deal with reality, rather than turning to heroin.

He is now advocating for people to view addicts compassionately and has worked on drug policy reforms in the UK to avoid “unnecessary criminalization”.

Brand now lives a very different life compared to 15 years ago. He is married and reportedly now the father of two.

5. Robert Downey Jr. Received an Ultimatum

Actor Robert Downey Jr. is one of the highest paid in Hollywood thanks to films such as Ironman.

However, for a while, he was completely broke due to his heroin, cocaine and alcohol addiction. His behavior was also widely reported in the media.

Downey Jr. spent years in and out of prison and was fired from multiple jobs due to his addiction.

Robert Downey Jr.’s drug addiction came to a halt after receiving an ultimatum from his producer and actress wife, Susan Downey.

The full support of his wife helped him kick the habit for good as well as 12-step programs, therapy, and yoga.

Many Celebrities on Heroin Successfully Kick the Habit

These stories of celebrities on heroin who have managed to successfully kick the habit and turn their lives around are no doubt inspiring.

Are you, or someone you love, living with heroin addiction? Make sure you are getting the help you require. If you aren’t getting the help you need, reach out so we can help (855) 976-2092.

It may feel impossible, but you can find help, read more on the blog about the ways to overcome addiction for good.

 

References

[1] NIDA. (2018, June 8). Heroin. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/heroin on 2019, February 13

[2] United States Government. (2018, November 30). usa.gov. Retrieved from Mental Health and Substance Abuse: https://www.usa.gov/mental-health-substance-abuse

heroin intervention

Help for Heroin Addicts: How to Stage an Intervention That’ll Get Them Back on Track

/4 Comments/in /by

If someone you love is addicted to heroin, you know how heartbreaking it can be. The cycle of addiction is painful no matter what side of it you’re on, which is why help for heroin addicts in important. You’re probably dealing with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.

But there’s hope. You’ve already got the tools you need to stage an intervention, which is all you can do when someone you love is in the throes of addiction.

If you’re unsure how to get help for heroin addicts, keep reading. We’ll walk you through what you need to know to stage a successful intervention.

The Truth About Interventions

If you’ve spent any time watching A&E, you probably think you have a good idea of what an intervention looks like. But the truth is, there’s much more to them then what you see on TV.

Interventions are all different and they take a lot more to orchestrate than you would think. It takes a lot of big feelings, and oftentimes big personalities, coming together to make a plan that benefits everyone, but most of all the addict.

Pick Your Partners Well

The first thing you want to consider is who you will be including in the intervention process. You want to stick to the people who are closest to the person suffering from addiction, but you also want to pick people who you know will be able to keep their cool.

An intervention isn’t about making an addict feel guilty or bad. It’s about showing them an outpouring of love and support. If you think there’s someone in the group who won’t be able to do that, tell them they need to sit it out.

Time is of the Essence

You want to also make sure that you pick the right time to stage an intervention. If you know your loved one’s using habits, pick a time that they’re sober. You want them to be as sober as possible when everyone starts to talk.

When someone uses drugs, their ability to think clearly is impaired. But it can also limit the number of violent outbursts, making everyone safer in the meantime.

It’s generally a good idea to go first thing in the morning and, if possible, after a huge incident related to drugs, like a DUI.

Private and Formal

If you can avoid it, don’t hold an intervention in someone’s home. You want your loved one to be comfortable, but there’s something about a formal, public place that could make them think twice about acting out.

If you give an addict an out, they’re going to take it. Something like a bedroom where they’re comfortable could be the end of your intervention before you even start. So stick to somewhere formal and public, like a hotel’s banquet space or a therapist office.

Decide Who Goes First

When you’re planning the intervention, you want to give careful thought to who is going to go first. The intervention is over the second your loved one agrees to go to treatment, so you want to make sure that the hardest hitting people go first.

If you know of friends or people who your loved one doesn’t talk to any more thanks to their addiction, consider asking them to speak too. Hearing from the same family over and over again can make an addicted person irritable.

Rehearse

This isn’t the sort of thing that you want to take lightly. It’s not something that should be ad-libbed. You want to make sure that the exact events are laid out for you, no matter what they are. Know who is going to speak, when, what they’re going to say, what you’ll do if your loved one agrees or refuses, and what to do if a problem arises.

Don’t Deviate From the Script

As much as you might want to go off script, don’t do it. Stick to what you rehearsed. If you decide to change things up, it will throw off the whole thing and could result in disaster.

Be Open and Warm

Again, interventions are about showing an addict how loved and supported they are. You want to make sure that you maintain a body language that spells this out clearly. Make sure your arms and legs are uncrossed and make eye contact with your loved one. Try not to bounce your leg, even if you’re nervous or anxious. Lean in, reach out, let them know you care.

Keep Your Emotions Under Control

It’s also important to make sure that you keep your emotions in check. If you cry, it’s okay. This is an emotional subject and it’s going to take a toll on you and everyone else in the room. But the last thing you want to do is react in anger.

No matter what anyone believes, addiction is not a moral flaw. It’s not a character defect. It is a scientifically proven chemical change in the brain. Try to keep your temper under control.

Likewise, try to keep your loved one away from anger too. Don’t let them start a fight with you or change the subject. Don’t blame and don’t argue.

Have a Plan B

Trying to get help for heroin addicts can be difficult. They can be unpredictable. They might try to leave or scream and cry or tell lies. But you need to be able to prepare, no matter what the situation calls for.

It’s also important to remember that flexibility is key here.

Keep Trying

At the end of the day, if you’ve managed to get your loved one into treatment, you’ve won. However, there’s a very real possibility they might refuse. And there’s also a possibility that they might go to treatment and then fall back to their old habits.

That’s okay. Don’t give up. This is all a part of the addiction and recovery process.

Getting Help for Heroin Addicts

Getting help for heroin addicts can be a difficult process. It’s full of emotion and hard feelings and you never know what you can expect. But it’s worth it.

For more information about helping heroin addicts, take a look at our resources on addiction treatment today. You can also reach out and speak to someone at (855) 976-2092. Get help for heroin addiction today.

 

Sources

NIDA. (2017, April 24). Trends & Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics on 2019, February 13

Joel Young. (2014, August 27). Drug and Alcohol Interventions: Do They Work? . Retrieved from Psychology Today : https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/when-your-adult-child-breaks-your-heart/201408/drug-and-alcohol-interventions-do-they-work