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Opioid Addiction Treatment 

The opioid crisis continues to claim thousands of lives each year, despite increased public awareness and legislative efforts to curb its devastating effects. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency in 2017, but more than 130 Americans still die of opioid overdose every day, making it our nation’s leading cause of accidental death. At Hope Lodge, we combat the epidemic with compassionate and comprehensive opioid addiction treatment.

group therapy circle using evidence based approaches

What Is Opioid Addiction?

Opioid addiction is a chronic disease that affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age, race, income, or gender identity. Though anyone can develop an opioid use disorder, specific factors can increase your risk.

  • Co-occurring mental health challenges: People with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD are more vulnerable to prescription opioid abuse.
  • Chronic pain: Using prescription opioids to manage chronic pain can lead to dependency and eventual addiction.
  • Substance abuse history: There is often a link between opioid addiction and the misuse of other substances like alcohol.
  • Genetic predisposition: A family history of mental health or substance use disorders can heighten your chances of becoming addicted to opioids.

The Dangers of Opioid Use

One of the most insidious aspects of prescription opioids is that people often underestimate their potential for abuse. Despite widespread awareness of the opioid epidemic, many people believe it is impossible to get addicted to medications like Vicodin or OxyContin when taking them as directed.

Still, opioids carry significant risks. Drug manufacturers promoted these medications as non-habit-forming for years, leading to widespread overprescription. Even under a doctor’s care, opioid users can quickly spiral into dependency, unable to stop using the drugs without severe withdrawal symptoms.

Warning Signs of Opioid Addiction

Recognizing the warning signs of opioid addiction is essential for early intervention and treatment. Some of the behavioral and physical signs to watch for include:

  • Sudden behavioral changes, such as mood swings or loss of motivation
  • Disinterest in previously beloved hobbies or activities
  • Irregular sleep patterns and insomnia
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Frequent nausea or vomiting
  • Financial difficulties or unexplained spending

Health Effects of Opioid Abuse

Opioids are central nervous system depressants that adversely affect your brain and body in ways like these. 

  • Respiratory issues: Slowed breathing or respiratory arrest
  • Gastrointestinal problems: Chronic constipation, nausea, and other digestive issues
  • Liver damage: Especially when combined with alcohol or other substances
  • Heart complications: Increased risk of heart disease and cardiovascular issues

Opioids interfere with your brain’s reward system, making it difficult to experience pleasure without the drug. Long-term opioid use can result in mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

The Need for Comprehensive Treatment

Opioid addiction is a complex disorder involving psychological, social, and environmental factors, making it essential to approach treatment from a holistic perspective. Hope Lodge’s team understands the multifaceted nature of opioid addiction and creates comprehensive treatment programs for each client’s needs.

As the first step in overcoming opioid addiction, detoxification clears your body and mind of the chemicals that contributed to the addiction. However, opioid withdrawal can be severely uncomfortable and potentially dangerous without proper medical supervision. Common withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Flu-like fever, body aches, and pains
  • Severe depression and anxiety
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Profuse sweating
  • Insomnia and sleep disturbances

Given the health risks associated with opioid withdrawal, at-home detox can be dangerous. Medically managed inpatient detox in a qualified facility like Hope Lodge is the safest and most effective way to start your recovery.

How Long Does Opioid Detox Take?

The opioid detox timeline can vary depending on several factors:

  • The specific opioid you used, including its dosage
  • How long you have relied on opioids
  • Whether you combined opioids with other substances
  • Your unique physiology and health status

Each person’s experience is different, so a personalized treatment plan is essential.

Start Healing at Hope Lodge

Hope Lodge’s inpatient treatment center is a home-like environment with comfortable living spaces. Our experienced team of medical professionals and counselors work together to create individualized treatment plans that address each aspect of addiction, from the physical to the psychological.

Substance abuse is a complex challenge, but recovery is possible. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and take the first step toward a healthier, drug-free life.