A 2017 report estimated that 201 million people struggled with opioid use disorder (OUD). Around 1.7 million people were addicted to prescription painkillers. Around 700,000 were heroin addicts.
This was way back in 2017. It is 2022 now. Do you think the number may have decreased or increased?
According to newer reports, which came after the Coronavirus pandemic, addictions increased manifold. As per Maine drug rehab specialists, the extreme stress and anxiety that Covid-19 brought, coupled with the easy availability of cheap drugs like fentanyl, addicts became more addicted and the non-addicts became addicts.
Commonly abused opioid prescriptions include:
- Fentanyl: Doctors prescribe it to treat severe pain during treatment of cancer, post-surgery, or due to chronic conditions.
- Codeine: This is a prescription for treating mild or moderate pain. It also serves as an antitussive (cough suppressant).
- Morphine: Doctors give this to patients with chronic and acute pain, both moderate and severe.
- Oxycodone: It is available as controlled-release and immediate-release forms under prescription only to treat moderate and severe pain.
- Hydrocodone: Less potent than oxycodone, but still has the power to make you an addict, if taken more than prescribed. Doctors prescribe it to manage pain that comes with injury or surgery.
People who abuse the above-mentioned opioids need to search for a “drug rehab near me” to go off these prescription drugs safely.
Untreated OUD
If left untreated, OUD can produce serious health complications with time. This is not all. People with OUD experience a disrupted family and work life. If you are a student, your studies get affected. You cannot concentrate on studies, as your brain’s motor and cognitive abilities take a hit.
People with severe OUD become irresponsible, distrustful, secluded, and often paranoid in their behavior.
Why rehab program is important
People who take opioids compulsively must seek professional help. Compulsive use of drugs is a clear sign of addiction. Do not attempt to De-addict at home on your own.
Firstly, you would fail because the cravings are too strong to resist.
Secondly, when you stop taking the drug the body produces terrifying withdrawal symptoms that can be dangerous, even fatal at times.
The best thing to do is call the addiction hotline and seek expert help.
How rehab can help
A typical rehab program begins with a medical detox session. This is to cleanse your system of opioids. A team of medical professionals works upon your physical health. They help you cope with the strong withdrawal symptoms that envelope you at this time.
You need not worry when in in-patient rehab. You are under constant medical supervision. Plus, a team of therapists works with you to deal with your psychological health.
So, it’s an all-embracing program that works on your physical, mental, and emotional issues for a complete recovery. Opioid treatment in a reputable rehab center ensures you stay sober for life. Chances of relapse are almost nil. Rehab gives you a safe, sober, and healthy environment to recover fully.
