Millions of Americans struggle with addiction to pain medication. Also known as opioid use disorder (OUD), painkiller addiction is a severe and complex condition that can majorly impact people’s lives. Most people who want to quit using opioids find that they need help, and seeking substance abuse treatment is one of the best ways to access that help. Participating in a painkiller rehab program can provide patients with the tools they need to stop using and regain control of their lives. Taking some time to learn about painkiller addiction treatment can allow you to make informed decisions about care for yourself or your loved one.

Painkiller Addiction: Know the Facts

Addiction is a complex condition with many causes and can be impacted by many different life circumstances. Everyone’s experience with addiction and recovery is different, but some of the basic facts about opioids and opiates are the same:

• Most pain medications are derived from the opium poppy. Medications that are made from the actual products of the poppy are called opiates, while those that are synthetic are called opioids. Often, these terms are used somewhat interchangeably.
• All opioids carry a high risk of misuse and addiction. This can be mitigated by strictly adhering to the doctor’s instructions, but it is always wise to be aware of the drugs’ addictive qualities.
• Nearly three-quarters of all fatal overdoses involve an opioid. This could be due to the addition of fentanyl, which is a very dangerous opioid, to other opioids.

  Painkiller addiction is a dangerous substance use disorder, and seeking treatment is essential.

What Happens During Painkiller Addiction Treatment?

Deciding to seek treatment for painkiller addiction can be a difficult decision. Even though you may understand that using painkillers is having a negative effect on your life, the fear of withdrawal can be strong. This is why seeking treatment is so important. Most people who successfully stop using painkillers and stay in recovery do so because of participating in some kind of treatment. Some aspects of treatment are:

• Detox – During detox, patients receive medication to help ease withdrawal symptoms and begin the counseling process.
• Residential treatment – Patients who have completed detox often transition to a longer, more comprehensive treatment program in which they stay at the treatment center full-time.
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP) – In IOP, patients do not stay at the treatment center overnight but still attend daily meetings, therapy, and counseling.
• Outpatient counseling and support groups – This aspect of treatment includes weekly visits with a counselor and meetings like Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous.

While taking that first step towards recovery can be challenging, overcoming substance use disorder is worth it.

The Benefits of Treatment for Painkiller Addiction

Studies have shown that people who participate in substance abuse treatment programs have the best chances of returning to work or school and maintaining their recovery over time. Since addiction is such a complicated condition, it can take time to discover and heal from its root causes. Treatment for addiction can also involve learning new coping skills and strategies for dealing with stress and conflict as a sober person.

Arkview Recovery: Supporting Your Journey to Freedom From Addiction

Our treatment center just outside of Harrisburg offers our patients state-of-the-art treatment for addiction to painkillers. Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan to get the help they need in the way that will work best for them. If you or someone you care about has been struggling with addiction to painkillers, it may seem overwhelming, but the good news is that recovery is very possible with the proper support and care. We encourage you to contact our caring and compassionate staff today at 717.744.0756 or through our online form and let us help you take your first steps on your recovery journey.