Benefits of Speaking Openly about Opiate Addiction

Benefits of Speaking Openly about Opiate Addiction

Benefits of Speaking Openly about Opiate Addiction

Opiates belong to a class of narcotic pain relievers that can be highly addictive. People who use opiates to relieve pain often find themselves needing increasingly high doses of the drug to achieve the desired results. This may mean the body is becoming dependent on the drug for both relief of pain and for the euphoric sensation it produces. People who use opiates can become dependent in a short amount of time, and withdrawal symptoms may occur when the drug use is stopped. Talking openly about your opiate addiction may seem embarrassing or shameful, but acknowledging to family and friends that you need help can be the first step toward finding recovery from the drug. Open conversations about the addiction can be beneficial throughout the rehab process. After exiting rehab, continuing to talk about your experiences can help keep you from relapsing and help others understand how to avoid becoming addicted to opiates.

Speaking Openly about Opiate Addiction in Rehabilitation

Addiction to opiates, especially in the form of prescription painkillers, is a growing problem. Many people who use prescription painkillers after surgery or injury or to manage a chronic pain condition often find themselves addicted. The presence of withdrawal symptoms and the need for increasing amounts of the drug may both be signs of addiction. When you become aware of your drug problem, talking openly about your symptoms can be an important step in getting help. Once you are in a treatment program, the open conversation continues as doctors and therapists work to help you understand your addiction, how it developed and what you need to do to find recovery. Being honest about the severity of your problem without feeling ashamed is beneficial to the recovery process. Understanding that the professionals on your rehab team are there to listen and help you, rather than judge you, can help you feel more comfortable sharing your struggles with them.

Speaking Openly about Opiate Addiction in Support Groups

Once you exit the rehab facility, it can be helpful to continue speaking openly about your opiate addiction and recovery in a support group. Support groups can provide a place where recovering addicts can share their feelings in a safe environment. Speaking openly at support group meetings may help you become confident in your recovery and remind you that you are not alone in your journey to stay drug-free. Talking about your addiction also provides accountability for you and encouragement for others. Others who are working through the opiate recovery process need to know they are not alone, and your willingness to speak openly about your opiate addiction may help someone else find sobriety.

Speaking Openly about Opiate Addiction to Loved Ones

Learning to speak openly about opiate addiction can also help you communicate with your family and friends about your addiction. Relationships can be strained and damaged during addiction, so it is important to rebuild them through an open dialogue about your recovery. Talking with children can be especially beneficial. Adjust your conversations with children based on their ages, their direct contact with the addiction and the relationship they have with the person who is in recovery.

Help for Opiate Addiction

Opiates are powerful drugs intended to help people manage pain, but their highly addictive properties lead many to addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with opiate addiction, call our toll-free helpline now. Our counselors are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions about opiate addiction and help you find the right treatment option for your situation. Please call now.