Addiction is a dangerous condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Opioid addiction, in particular, has become an epidemic in recent years due to its easy accessibility and high risk for dependency.
It’s estimated that over 2 million Americans have opioid addiction from prescription drugs or illicit substances like heroin. Fortunately, like every other disease, addicts can recover and lead healthy lives after seeking treatment. This article explores various tips opioid addicts can use to help get their lives back to a healthy routine.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is more than just using drugs or alcohol; it’s a psychological disorder characterized by compulsive behaviors leading to extreme cravings and dependence upon the drug or activity being abused.
People suffering from addiction may be unable to control their intake of the substance they’re addicted to despite knowing all its negative consequences. In addition, this behavior often leads to physical dependence and mental issues such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
What are the Symptoms of Opioid Addiction?
The symptoms of opioid addiction vary depending on the user, but some common signs include intense cravings for opioids, loss of control over how much is being used; and neglecting responsibilities.
Can Opioid Addiction Be Treated?
Yes! There are many effective treatments available for those struggling with opioid addiction.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is one option that is usually coupled with behavioral therapies such as counseling, group therapy, family therapy, and peer support groups.
This treatment helps individuals manage their physical dependence on opioids while learning coping skills so they can eventually stop using them altogether.
There are other options people can try, such as residential treatment programs, detoxification centers, outpatient clinics, and 12-step programs, which all provide different levels of care tailored towards each individual’s specific needs.
Tips for Patients to Recover from Opioid Addiction
If you or someone from your family or friends is struggling with opioid addiction and willing to seek treatment, these tips can be helpful.
Patient Willingness and Commitment
You cannot force an addict to seek treatment without their consent because they will eventually return to using. Therefore, before starting any recovery program, patients must understand what they’re getting into and be willing to commit to the process. It takes a lot of dedication, hard work, consistency, and determination to recover from opioid addiction.
An Assessment With a Qualified Clinician
Before beginning any treatment program, you need to get an assessment from a qualified clinician who can assess your needs and provide personalized treatment and care recommendations.
And the best part is you can get online help as many recovery centers, such as Recovery Delivered, have an app to access telemedicine sessions and medication.
Rehab
Inpatient or residential rehab is often recommended as they provide 24/7 medically supervised care with access to counseling, support groups, and other therapeutic activities that help individuals focus on recovery from opioid addiction.
Medication and Behavioral Therapy
MAT combines medication, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, with behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and contingency management. These help individuals recognize triggers for drug use and build coping skills to remain abstinent over time.
Support From Families and Friends
Having supportive family members or friends who understand the struggle of addiction is vital to long-term recovery success. They can be great motivators while also providing much-needed emotional support along the way.
Find New Hobbies
Engaging in new activities outside of substance abuse can be a great way to keep busy and distract from cravings. This could include playing an instrument, joining a sports team, swimming, painting, or reading more books.
Enroll in a Gym
Exercise can do wonders for the body and mind regarding recovery from addiction. Regular physical activity has been linked to improved mental health and increased confidence and self-esteem, which are essential in helping someone stay on track with their sobriety goals.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating nutritious foods is essential for your overall well-being but especially during recovery from opioid addiction. Proper nutrition helps restore balance throughout the body while providing the energy needed to participate in activities that promote healing and growth, such as exercise and therapy sessions.
Avoid Triggers
If you are recovering from opioid use disorder (OUD), you must recognize triggers that may cause you to relapse into your old habits. And then do all that is necessary to avoid those situations. This includes staying away from people and places where drugs are available. Also, avoid instances that force you to use drugs. If possible, move out to a new location.
Attend Support Groups
Joining support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide invaluable support and guidance on recovery. In addition, being surrounded by those who have gone through similar struggles can be incredibly motivating and provide a sense of understanding that is often hard to find elsewhere.
Have a Sponsor
Having someone to guide you through recovery can be beneficial when staying committed and motivated, especially when experiencing a challenging time like temptations.
That’s why it’s recommended that people going through recovery must have a sponsor. This must be someone you can trust and with whom you can share your challenges and successes and help hold you accountable for your progress in sobriety.
Give Back to the Society
Most addicts often lose their sense of self-worth in the process and may have difficulty regaining their self-esteem and confidence. Therefore, as a recovering addict, you can try volunteering in your region, as this will make you feel better about yourself. It will also help you make connections and realize that many others have it worse. This will come in handy when you are better, back in society, and seeking a job.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from opioid addiction is challenging but achievable. As long as you are willing, stay committed, and receive support, advice, and the proper treatment & care, you’ll make lasting changes that allow you to live drug-free and experience life more fully and joyfully.
So, if you or someone you know is dealing with an addiction to opioids, please seek help.