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Common Signs of Opiate Abuse

young woman consoling her female friend as she explains common signs of opiate abuse and encourages her to seek help

Worldwide, opioid addiction affects millions of people. Opiates are simply opioids that are derived naturally, such as morphine or codeine. The term opioid is the more inclusive term which includes natural and synthetic drugs. A substance use disorder involving opioids affects your mental and physical health and can even be fatal. If you battle an opioid use disorder, get help by turning to an opiate addiction treatment in Asheville, NC. If you display signs of opiate abuse, call Insight Recovery Center at 828.826.1376 to begin treatment.

What Are Opioids?

Opioids can be prescription medications or illicit drugs that interact with the nerve cells that send pain signals to the brain. Prescription opioids are used for the treatment of pain that can occur after surgery, during cancer treatment, and more. Some common opiates are:

  • Hydrocodone
  • Oxycodone
  • Codeine
  • Morphine
  • Fentanyl
  • Heroin

Opioids are highly addictive because they eliminate pain and cause a sense of euphoria. Repeatedly seeking out this euphoria can become a compulsion that interferes with your life and constitutes opiate abuse.

Common Signs of Opiate Abuse

Painkiller addiction can present in many ways. Some people may exhibit more or different signs than others.

Behavioral signs can include:

  • Lying about use
  • Stealing
  • Doctor shopping
  • Isolation
  • Decline in work performance

There can also be cognitive symptoms like:

  • Paranoia
  • Impaired judgment
  • Problems concentrating
  • Problems making decisions
  • Feeling detached

The physical symptoms can include:

  • Changes in hygiene
  • Weight changes
  • Scabs or sores
  • Puncture wound from injections
  • Poor motor coordination
  • Constipation
  • Slow reflexes

The emotional signs of opiate abuse include:

  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Depression
  • Anger

Anyone is at risk of developing an addiction to opioids, but some factors can affect your risk. If you have family members who have experienced substance use disorders, you are more likely to also have this problem.

If you live in an environment that provides easy access to drugs or you have a stressful life, you are also more at risk.

Trauma and abuse can also increase your chances of developing a substance use disorder.

Treatment for Painkiller Addiction

Opioid addiction will not get better on its own. You have to ask for help and begin the journey toward sobriety.

After participating in a detox program, we recommend intensive outpatient treatment programs (IOPs). An IOP can offer a high level of care without requiring that you stay at a center overnight. It can provide individual and group therapy sessions, family counseling, and more.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy sessions are one of the most critical aspects of addiction treatment. These sessions help you understand why the addiction began in the first place so that you can make the necessary changes to start healing.

By working closely with a trained therapist, you can explore underlying issues and triggers that contribute to your addiction. This personalized approach allows for tailored strategies that empower you to cope with challenges more effectively. Ultimately, these sessions play a vital role in fostering self-awareness and promoting lasting recovery.

Group Therapy

Group therapy can help with the isolation that so many people feel while battling an addiction and as they begin recovery. It provides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and feelings, fostering understanding and empathy among participants. Group therapy allows you to meet others with similar challenges, letting you see that you are not alone. Sharing stories and coping strategies can lead to valuable insights that enhance your recovery journey.

These sessions can also make it easier to start building the support system you can rely on once you complete treatment, encouraging lasting connections that extend beyond the therapy room. Ultimately, group therapy not only aids in healing but also empowers individuals to face their challenges together.

Dual Diagnosis

For those who have mental health conditions along with substance use disorders, a dual-diagnosis program can be the best option. It is crucial to treat both conditions at the same time because one can feed into the other. The right program can offer therapies that can help with both conditions.

By addressing both issues concurrently, individuals can achieve a more comprehensive understanding of their challenges. This holistic approach not only aids in recovery but also promotes long-term stability and wellness. Additionally, support from professionals who specialize in dual diagnosis can provide tailored strategies that empower individuals on their journey to healing.

Contact Insight Recovery Center for Help with Opiate Abuse

Dealing with opiate abuse on your own can leave you feeling helpless. You need to know that you can heal from this condition and start living a better life.

Insight Recovery Center provides the care you need when facing substance use disorders or mental health conditions. With our dedicated professionals ready to guide you, you can get the help you deserve. Call Insight Recovery Center today at 828.826.1376 or use our convenient online contact form for opiate rehab in Asheville, NC.