In the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies reassured the medical fraternity that using opioids would not be addictive. These companies wanted to use the drugs as pain relievers. Subsequently, the number of prescriptions for opioids rose steadily, and many people got addicted to these drugs. It was too late when these companies realized that the drugs were causing untold addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, help is available. You can enroll in an opioid addiction treatment program at our Atlanta Detox Center and begin the road to recovery.

Over the years, opioid abuse has become prevalent in our society. The abuse is so widespread that it is now an epidemic. In 2018 alone, 10.3 million people abused prescription opioids, and another two million people in the same year suffered from disorders related to opioid use. The current situation is just a product of the events that took place about two decades ago.

Why People Abuse Opioids

Each person has their own reasons for using a drug, ranging from recreational to treatment purposes. However, the use and misuse of drugs over some time can lead to addiction and dependence. For drugs such as opioids, the chances of addiction are higher. This is because they are highly addictive. Some of the common reasons people give for abusing opioids are:

  • Pain relief: Opioids are primarily pain-relieving medicines, but some people take advantage of this and abuse the drug. These people do not seek a prescription before they buy the drug. Instead, they self-medicate and eventually develop a dependency on the drug.
  • Relaxation: Some people abuse opioids because they make them calm. Opioids can also help some individuals deal with difficult emotions such as pain from losing a loved one.
  • Peer pressure: This is common among young adults and teens. The pressure from friends to experience the effects of the drug may push someone to opioid use. Some of these people might find it difficult to stop once they start.
  • Polysubstance use: People may use opioids to boost the effects of other drugs. These may be individuals who have a high tolerance to some other drugs. To get the high they desire, they combine opioid use with other drugs.

Dangers of Opioid Use

The use of opioids for dealing with chronic pain or pain after surgery is laudable. However, when you misuse opioids, negative consequences are bound to arise. There is a risk that a person can develop a dependence on opioids very quickly.

The dependence will make the person experience withdrawal effects if they do not use the drug. The dependence will also develop into addiction when left unchecked. Addiction is a mental disorder that makes the afflicted person compulsively seek opioids. At this stage, the individual will not care if continuing opioid use is detrimental to their health. Once you discover a person is at this point, it is best to enroll them in a drug addiction treatment program.

Opioid addiction might also push someone into heroin use, because the two drugs are quite similar. A combination of heroin and opioid use is extremely dangerous since the chances of overdosing are higher, and an overdose can culminate in death in a matter of minutes. Be sure to seek treatment in a heroin detox center to start your recovery.

How Atlanta Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs Work

You can find a suitable opioid addiction treatment program for yourself or your loved ones in Atlanta. The opioid addiction treatment program at Atlanta Detox Center in GA offers:

  • Detox – This is the first step towards recovery. At the facility, we will help you to remove the toxins from your body.
  • Co-occurring diagnosis – This program will help determine if you have any mental illness in addition to the addiction. It enables the specialist to provide the appropriate care.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy – This therapy will help to modify your behavior. It seeks to eliminate behavioral tendencies that push you towards drug use.
  • Aftercare – A specialist will keep track of your recovery progress after you complete the full treatment program. Aftercare acts as a support framework for the client. Additionally, you have access to our alumni program which connects you with people who have been in your position.

Join an Opioid Addiction Treatment Program at Atlanta Detox Center

Do not let addiction ruin your life or that of your loved ones. You can overcome it by enrolling in an opioid addiction treatment program. Contact Atlanta Detox Center today at 470.450.2355 or visit our center. Our professional Atlanta Detox staff will steer your drive towards recovery.

Start Your Recovery Today!

If you or someone you care about has been battling addiction issues or having mental health problems, it is worth reaching out to a healthcare professional like the ones at Atlanta Detox.