Alabama is one of the hardest-hit states in America’s opioid epidemic. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in 2018, physicians in Alabama prescribed 97.5 opioid prescriptions for every 100 people. Not only was this the highest rate in the country, but it was also two times the average rate for the U.S.
Opioids Are Addictive
Many users start with prescription pain medications, such as oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone, and morphine following an accident at work, vehicle collision, surgery, and quickly get hooked. The risk of addiction is significant because opioids relieve pain, which makes the user feel good. They can also create a sense of euphoria and be used as an escape from reality.
Unfortunately, opioid addiction isn’t just psychological. The body forms a physical dependence on the drug, even when using it legally. Additionally, patients develop a tolerance to the pain medication and need more to get the same relief. The higher you raise the dose, the more the risk of an overdose increases.
Also, when a patient is cut off from pain medications by their doctor for whatever reason with no further assistance for their condition, they often turn to the Black Market. Sadly, oxycodone on the street is expensive. Many people dependent on opioids turn to heroin as a cheap alternative. This only fuels their addiction and increases the dangers. Heroin batches are often cut with dangerous substances, such as fentanyl. A bad batch can cause an immediate overdose and death. Opioid addiction leads people to play Russian roulette with their lives.
Addiction Affects Entire Families
Substance abuse isn’t a solitary disease. It’s a family condition. Children grow up watching their parents struggle. Parents try but are often unsuccessful in reaching their children with dependency issues. Emotional and physical abuse can occur in households with opioid addiction.
Additionally, some children experience neglect when their parents are consumed by drugs and alcohol. Despite the difficulties, it’s not the end. Recovery is possible. Anyone can beat addiction and learn to live life without drugs.
Benefits of a Drug Rehab Center
You shouldn’t go through detox alone. You need a strong support system to beat addiction. A drug recovery program can guide you through the detoxification process safely to get you through the first step of your path to living a drug-free life. Trained therapists and addiction specialists work with you through individual and group therapy sessions to work on what leads to your dependency and what steps you can take to avoid a relapse when you complete your program.
Also, the right rehab facility slowly eases you into the next step through partial hospitalization or an intensive outpatient center. Recovery isn’t a couple of weeks or months process—It’s a lifetime commitment. Birmingham Recovery Center is an Alabama drug rehab that can help you or a loved one find their way again. You don’t have to let opioid addiction control your life. We’ll help you find the inner strength necessary to overcome opioid dependence and enjoy life with your loved ones again.