Should I go to opiate rehab?
- Heroin
- Morphine
- Hydrocodone
- Oxycodone
- Propoxyphene
- Fentanyl
Whether opiates were prescribed to treat a medical condition or were initially used recreationally, addiction can develop quickly, sometimes within a matter of weeks.
Addiction is a disease that occurs because a user’s brain changes to adapt to the presence of a drug. The user’s body has come to see taking the drug as normal, and when they are not regularly consumed withdrawal symptoms occur, and the person feels a sense of deprivation. Continuing to take the drugs, however, is even more harmful than the discomfort of withdrawal.
Detoxification and Counseling for Opiate Addiction
There are many reasons to enter an opiate rehab program when dependence is recognized. The first is that the initial period of detox can be supervised and withdrawal symptoms treated in a supportive and caring environment. Opiate withdrawal symptoms that can be expected during detox include the following:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Muscle pain
- Sweating
- Depression
Detox is only the first stage in opiate addiction treatment. The next stage is counseling, which will involve education, support and accountability. Patients can expect compassionate assistance from clinicians who are well-trained, experienced and focused on helping clients reach their goals. These professionals will do the following:
- Explain what patients can expect during the recovery process
- Help patients increase their motivation for remaining clean
- Work with patients to identify beliefs and situations that may contribute to continuing drug use
- Prepare relapse prevention strategies
Both inpatient and outpatient programs can be good options for receiving this care. Residential programs allow clients to focus completely on the goal of recovery with no distractions or temptations. Support is always available when needed. Outpatient programs allow clients to maintain elements of their everyday lives, such as employment or child care. Outpatient programs can be either full-day affairs similar to what would be encountered in a residential treatment environment or evening-only programs for those with daily jobs.
Medications and Integrated Therapies for Opiate Addiction Rehabilitation
The most effective treatment for opiate addiction is a combination of behavioral and medication-oriented therapies. An opiate rehab program can dispense medications which help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. A clinician can carefully monitor dosages and help the client with decisions regarding how long to stay on such medications and how quickly or slowly to taper off of them.
It is common for those who are addicted to opiates to have co-occurring physical conditions (for which an opioid drug may have been originally prescribed) or mental health conditions (such as anxiety or depression). A quality rehab program will do a thorough assessment and will address all of a client’s needs simultaneously. Research has shown success rates to be much higher when patients receive integrated treatment of this type, especially if it is offered in the same facility.
Things to Consider
Finding the Opiate Rehabilitation Program Right for You
If you are looking for an opiate rehab program for yourself or a loved one, give us a call. We can help match you to the program that meets your needs. Our number is toll-free and staffed 24 hours a day, so call now. We can help.