Understanding Opioid Addiction and Symptoms

Opioid addiction is a serious epidemic that currently affects more than two million Americans. This national problem is growing exponentially, and increased fourfold from 1999 to 2004. If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid addiction, please know that you are not alone. Help is out there.

What are Opioids?

Opioids are pain-relieving medications. They are prescribed to treat moderate or severe pain. Common opioids include:

Codeine
Fentanyl
Hydromorphone
Hydrocodone
Methadone
Morphine

Although opioids are prescribed to treat pain, they can also reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. They impact the body’s limbic system, the brainstem and spinal cord. Opioids attach onto receptors in the brain and send signals that block out pain. Additionally, they induce calm and relaxed feelings. The primary effects of the drug are the same whether it’s heroin or a prescription pill.

What are Opioid Addiction Symptoms?

General symptoms of opioid addiction and abuse include:

Frequent visits to different doctors for prescriptions
Long-term opioid use
Poor performance at school or work
Reduced interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Ignoring responsibilities
Using opioids while driving or in other dangerous situations
Thought and physical movement slow down
Insomnia
Tension
Anxiety
Restlessness
Drowsiness
Suicidal tendencies
Impaired judgement
Continuous opioid cravings
Memory impairment
Attention and focus issues

There are three terms to take a look at when you have concerns regarding a person’s reliance upon opioids: addiction, dependence and abuse.

Addiction

Cravings
Inability to control use
Continuing to use despite negative consequences

Dependence

Increased tolerance to substance’s effects
Withdrawal symptoms when stop using
Failed attempts to quit
Lack of interest in commitments or normal activities
Continuing to use despite negative consequences

Abuse

Regular excessive use of the substance
Legal problems
Putting self in danger
Problems with personal relationships
Neglecting responsibilities

Who Gets Addicted to Opioids?

Opioid addiction can affect people from all walks of life. That being said, some people are at a greater risk for developing an opioid addiction.

Studies have found that women are more likely to become addicted to opioids than men. This is because women experience chronic pain more often than their male counterparts. As a result, doctors tend to prescribe opioids to women for longer periods of time. Therefore, this increases women’s chances of becoming addicted.

Mental health issues also play a role in the likelihood to become addicted. Taking an opioid can help to relieve mental pain. As a result, they are likely to become reliant upon the substance.

Some common mental health conditions that may be at an increased risk for opioid addiction include:

Schizophrenia
Anxiety
Depression
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Bipolar disorder
Alcoholism
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

How Do I Get Help?

Inpatient or outpatient facilities can provide treatment plans to help a person overcome opioid addiction. Depending upon the severity of the addiction, either inpatient or outpatient care will be recommended after an initial assessment.

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction and ready to start feeling better, The Blackberry Center is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our opioid addiction treatment programs.