In the United States, an average of one in 20 people in the U.S. (12 and older) admits to non-medical use of prescription painkillers. Misuse of painkillers represents more than three-fourths of the overall problem of prescription drug abuse. The pain pill hydrocodone is the most commonly diverted and abused controlled pharmaceutical in the US.
Pain Pill Addiction is a Serious Issue
With doctors prescribing thousands of painkillers each year, access is easier than ever for adolescents and adults. Prescription drug abuse is also climbing in older Americans, particularly involving anti-anxiety drugs such as Xanax and painkillers such as OxyContin. Like abuse of any other substance, it can be important to act quickly if you believe you or someone you know needs help. In fact, prescription painkillers cause 60% of overdose deaths. Pain pill addiction is a serious issue, but it can be effectively fought with professional treatment.
Specific Pain Pill Addiction Signs
According to the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, misuse of painkillers represents 75% of the overall prescription drug abuse in the US. If you believe someone you know has begun to abuse pain pills, you may be curious about what signs you can look for.
Often, individuals suffering from addiction to pain pills will appear drowsy with constricted pupils. Also, they frequently complain of itchy skin and have a tendency to nod off, or you may find short straws nearby that are an indicator they have been crushing their pills to snort them. Other items such as syringes, droppers, or large rubber bands are likely an indication of addiction as well.
Identifying the Signs Pain Pill Addiction
Individuals who abuse opiates often display reduced social interaction, anxiety and drowsiness. Additionally, they may also have slowed breathing, mood swings, or overall apathy and depression. Some signs can be more serious than others and are more likely to be present in the event of an overdose.
Pain Pill Addiction Signs Have Consequences
Eventually, individuals who abuse opiates for an extended period of time can become physically dependent. Overall, this dependence may lead to lifestyle changes that result in destructive behaviors.
Some pain pill addiction signs may include:
• Neglecting work or school
• Asking to borrow money
• Wearing clothes that have heavy coverage
Any of these behaviors indicate an urgent need for rehabilitation and lifestyle change.
Also, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH) research suggests that long-term opiate abuse can lead to brain damage. Consequently, this can greatly affect an individual’s decision-making abilities, behavior regulation, and stress response.
Your Best Choice Of Action
If You Have Identified That Pain Pill Addiction Is Occurring
The best thing to do if you or someone you know is suffering from pain pill addiction is to seek treatment. A professional rehabilitation facility will be able to help you or a loved one step away from your harmful habits and work toward sobriety. Professional rehabilitation centers will offer evidence-based techniques that can offer you a real chance at sobriety. These techniques often include:
- Medically Monitored Detox
- Residential Treatment for Men and Women
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment
- Medication Assisted treatment (MAT)
- Alumni Programs
D’Amore Healthcare offers quality detoxification and drug treatment to adult men and women. Located in the beach communities of southern California, our fully accredited treatment facility specializes in providing care that can fully tailor your needs. With staff available who will work hard to help you get better, rest assured that D’Amore Healthcare will stop at nothing to help you or someone you know overcome addiction. In fact, our approach to detoxification is proven to bring you relief faster than other programs. You will not have to spend time and money on maintenance suboxone or methadone after you complete our 30 – 45 day program. Faster recovery means freedom and a high quality of life are closer than you think.
You don’t need to let addiction control your life or the life of a loved on. Reach out to us today at 714.375.1110 to verify your insurance and get started on the road to recovery.
