The opioid crisis is becoming an even more serious problem as overdose cases, severe sickness, and deaths have skyrocketed over recent years. With the COVID-19 pandemic’s unique stress adding to the everyday lives of people and the myriad of pressures it has caused, people tend to lean more on substance abuse for comfort and escape. The abuse of opioids is also linked with the use of other illicit substances. This combination can be a deadly form of substance abuse that can lead to severe and long-term symptoms if you do not treat it at a drug detox center program.
Entities and administrations worldwide are committed to reducing the spread of opioid abuse, but it is up to professional therapists to eradicate the opioid crisis. Through traditional methods, such as therapy, and alternative modes of treatment, like yoga or acupuncture, dealing with the rise in opioid abuse globally is becoming a top priority in the medical field. Achieving a balanced approach may be an effective and practical way of dealing with opioid abuse at The Detox Center.
What Are Opioids?
Opioids, also commonly referred to as narcotics, refer to drugs prescribed and administered to alleviate chronic or severe pain throughout the body. When appropriately used, opioids are used to treat chronic headaches, back pain, or post-surgery pain. Opioids attach to proteins in our nerve cells to block pain signals sent to the brain by our bodies. So while these drugs provide many valuable functions, opioid use also has its drawbacks, especially the high risk of addiction.
Opioid addiction occurs when this drug is used for a prolonged period. The body and mind will crave for it, treating opioids as a necessity rather than an aid. The higher your tolerance becomes results in the more opioids you would have to consume to experience their effects. And the more opioids you consume, the higher the potential for becoming addicted to the substance and needing to seek help at a residential treatment program. This is what poses a danger in the use of opioids.
Side Effects of Opioids
Used correctly, opioids serve as a beneficial tool to alleviate any pain-related symptoms. However, you have to take note of the side effects. Side effects include:
- Constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Loss of Focus
- Confusion
- Slowed breathing pattern
When opioids are abused, the side effects become more severe and potentially deadly. The more harmful side effects include:
- Short or shallow breathing
- Extreme loss of energy
- Significantly slowed heart rate
- Loss of consciousness
Treatment and Recovery
Drug addiction can lead to life-threatening ailments or death. The consequences to the mind and body are long-lasting, even in the early phases of addiction. Additionally, drug addicts are more susceptible to dangerous situations and are more likely to engage in harmful behavior. More than ever, the opioid crisis must be managed by raising awareness and extending help to those in need.
The path to recovery starts by admitting you have a problem with substance abuse and seeking help from our Boca Raton detox center. After you recognize you have a problem, it is important to seek professional help. Therapists can guide you in making the right decisions regarding your social environment. Certain friends, locations, and events may have to be avoided. Support from family and trusted friends is also a must to build the foundation towards a drug-free life. Recovery will not happen overnight, but proper guidance and care will set you on the right path.
Get In Touch With Experts at The Detox Center and Avoid the Opioid Crisis
Each of us has the opportunity for growth and change for the better. But for many, the opioid crisis gets in the way of living a healthy life and developing into a better person. Eliminate opioid addiction or dependency by consulting with our team of experts. Book an appointment online or contact The Detox Center at [Direct] today for details of our therapy and detox programs now!