Friday, April 28, 2017

Volunteering For Opiate Addiction Treatment Is The Only Solution For Addicts

By Paul Peterson


It is a sad fact that there are numerous people, from every country and culture, that are addicted to some substance. Many people think that addicts exclusively use illegal drugs, but this is not the case. Dependency upon prescription painkillers have become one of the most common problem faced by those treating addicted patients. Treating patients with a dependency problem is always difficult but by agreeing to opiate addiction treatment sufferers can regain control over their lives.

The very fact that treatment programs for those addicted to pain killers have sprung up everywhere is a clear indication of just how serious the problem has become. Far too many doctors write prescriptions because their patients ask them too. Even when they refuse, the addict will not struggle to find pain killers, even in the black market. May patients are convinced that they are only using medication for a legitimate reason.

In many cases the loved ones of people addicted to drugs or alcohol are able to clearly observe the effects of the dependency. In the case of prescription pain killers, however, it is often very difficult to point to any specific signs of dependency. Things to look out for include regular visits to the doctor, often different ones every time and the use of different pharmacies for each prescription. Addicts will often complain of severe pain, thereby justifying their use of medication.

The biggest problem faced by rehabilitation experts is that their efforts will have no effect whatsoever if the patient does not admit that he has a serious problem and that he requires professional help. Patients are therefore only allowed to join a rehabilitation program after they have been assessed thoroughly. If they are not motivated to overcome the dependency precious resources will be wasted.

When a patient is accepted in a treatment program the immediate priority is detoxification. This is a very traumatic experience for most patients. They have to accept side effects such as pain, insomnia and a constant craving for pain killers. Some patients develop psychological problems such as depression and anxiety during this withdrawal phase. In severe cases medication is prescribed.

The next step in the program is to teach the patient how to live a healthy, balanced life. They are taught techniques to cope with stress, pain and anxiety. They learn how to use exercise and a proper diet to prevent a need for artificial gratification from developing. This process can take some time and may require numerous individual and group therapy sessions.

When a patient completes a rehabilitation program he, as well as his loved ones, are warned that a dangerous period awaits. The patient will have to take up life again and all too often they quickly fall back into their old harmful habits. The only solution is to continue with therapy, to become part of support groups and to speak to loved ones when things seem dark and futile.

Addiction to any substance is difficult for all parties concerned. There is no shame in admitting such a problem and asking for help. In fact, admitting that there is a problem is a sure sign of inner strength. The earlier help is sought, the better the chances of living life free of drugs.




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