Regardless of the substance of abuse, addiction is difficult to recover from. Due to the many addictive substances available today, many people struggle with the disease of addiction. Fortunately, recovery from addiction is possible. Depending on the drug that had been abused, different treatments may be required.
Dangers of OxyContin Addiction
This powerful painkiller is twice as potent as morphine and, as of 2018, is prescribed over 16 million times per year. As an opioid, OxyContin provides pain relief by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain. OxyContin, along with other synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids, are at the center of the current opioid epidemic due to the high likelihood of dependence. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average of 41 people died each day from overdoses involving prescription opioids in 2018 alone.
Signs of OxyContin Addiction
OxyContin has a profound impact on an individual’s life and health. These signs are unique to OxyContin abuse. The following side effects are indicators that OxyContin use has become an addiction.
Depression
OxyContin abuse causes a chemical alteration within the brain. When an individual is unable to secure more of the drug, they are faced with crippling depression as the neurotransmitters in the brain have become incapable of naturally stabilizing mood.
Lethargy
As a central nervous system depressant, OxyContin slows down cognitive functioning. Individuals under the influence of this strong opioid will often appear drowsy, lose consciousness or be unable to keep their balance. Speech may also often be slurred.
Mood Swings
OxyContin targets the brain’s opioid receptors responsible for the feeling of euphoria when high. Prolonged use of OxyContin eventually causes a shift in brain chemistry, disabling the brain from organically managing mood. Because of this, OxyContin is known to cause abrupt changes in mood and demeanor.
How to Recover from an OxyContin Addiction
If an individual begins exhibiting signs of addiction, such as a desperate need to continue use, change in appearance, or extreme mood swings, professional treatment is crucial. In many cases, the first step in treating OxyContin addiction is withdrawing from the substance. Because of the health complications that may arise during the withdrawal process, it is highly recommended that the individual seeks medical assistance during this stage. Clinically supervised detox can guarantee that the individual can be safe during the withdrawal process.
Once an individual has shed all residual traces of OxyContin, it is important to seek additional care. Research has shown that behavioral therapies are very effective in treating addiction. Professional addiction therapists work with clients to develop healthy decision-making and coping skills to fight future temptations. Treatment within professional addiction treatment centers also reinforces sobriety by providing a support system among like-minded individuals.
Due to Adderall being a highly addictive stimulant, addiction treatment within a qualified center increases the likelihood of maintaining sobriety significantly. Upon graduating from one of these programs, continued support within a 12-step group or aftercare program is very beneficial to maintaining life in recovery. These services help individuals gradually transition into independent, drug-free living.
We’re Here for You
OxyContin is a highly addictive opioid that is life-threatening when abused. It is important to seek help immediately if you or a loved one is struggling with this addiction. At Asheville Recovery Center, treatment specialists have developed a unique, hybrid model of treatment which combines a traditional 12-step program with holistic rehabilitation. A multitude of services, programs, and therapies are offered, including the Partial Hospitalization Program, Residential-style treatment, outpatient rehabilitation, and more.
The founders of Asheville Recovery Center, as well as many of our addiction therapists, have struggled with addiction and now enjoy life in recovery. They understand the struggles of addiction and how difficult it is to overcome alone. If you feel that you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, our specialists are on standby and ready to help. Call (828)518-6996 and speak with an addiction expert today so you can take the first step towards a rewarding life of sobriety.
