According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, and morphine. People who use opioids may develop a tolerance to the drug, which means they need larger and larger doses to get the same effect. They may also develop physical dependence, which means they feel withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug. Both tolerance and dependence can lead to addiction.
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, it’s important to know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you through this difficult time. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of getting professional help for opioid addiction and some of the most important opioids drug rehab resources.
How Do People Get Addicted to Opioids?
Opioid addiction can happen to anyone. It does not discriminate. People of all ages, genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds can become addicted to opioids. You may be wondering how someone gets addicted to opioids in the first place. Here are some of the most common ways:
- Taking opioids for a long time/using them more often than prescribed
- Taking higher doses of opioids than prescribed
- Crushing pills and snorting or injecting them
- Using someone else’s prescription
- Getting opioids from multiple doctors (“doctor shopping”)
- Buying opioids from a dealer or online
- Using opioids with other drugs or alcohol
Once you have determined that you or someone in your life is addicted, it is essential that you seek out an opioid rehab center.
Important Opioids Drug Rehab Resources
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, there is help available. Here are some important opioid rehab resources:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free confidential information service that provides 24/7 treatment referral and information about mental health and substance abuse disorders in English and Spanish. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
NIDA offers publications about drugs of abuse for both clinicians and patients as well as general information about drugs of abuse for the public. Call 1-888-NIH-NIDA (644-6432).
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator
This website allows you to search for substance abuse treatment facilities near you.
12 Step Programs
These programs follow a set structure and provide peer support. Examples include Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
Local Mental Health Centers
Many local mental health centers offer substance abuse counseling services. You can find a mental health center near you by searching online or calling your insurance company for a list of covered providers.
Local Hospitals
Some hospitals have programs specifically designed for people struggling with addiction. You can search online or call your insurance company for a list of covered providers in your area.
Crisis Text Line
This is a free 24/7 crisis text line for people in crisis in the United States. Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the US to text with a trained crisis counselor. Standard messaging rates apply.
Emergency Rooms
If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical emergency related to opioid use, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Learn More About Opioids Addiction Resources Near You
There are many benefits to getting professional help for opioid addiction including but not limited to: decreasing drug use, improving mental health, improving physical health, increasing employment opportunities, improving social relationships, and reducing criminal activity involvement. If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, please reach out for help today!