Regardless of what you hear on the news and on TV, doctors will rightfully guarantee that prescription opioids are safe if you take them as instructed. After all, medical professionals don’t want to trigger yet another case of addiction, so they will take care to make sure you live a happy, drug-free life. Remember, though, you have to follow the instructions to the tee. If you don’t, you can potentially fall victim to opioid use disorder like any other victim you hear about on the news (if you aren’t recovering from this already). Let’s take a closer look at how these painkillers can scramble the brain.
Rewiring the System
So why do people become addicted to opioids in the first place? The answer is simple: our brains.
After people consume opioids, these painkillers activate multiple systems in our brains, including a section that stimulates the need to take more of the drug. Simultaneously, opioids will stimulate an area that inhibits the ability to stop consuming these substances. With a lack of willpower and intense motivation, these brains easily fall victim to opioids. People might want to stop, but their brains won’t let them.
Hit the “Repeat” Button
Time is of the essence in the case of opioid addiction. The more of these drugs you take, the weaker your ability to self-control will become. You will not be able to find a reason to stop and will lack the ability to make life-saving decisions, reinforcing the prospect that addiction truly is a mental illness.
Think of the opioid-addicted brain as an out-of-control car with brakes that don’t work and a steering wheel that barely works. Consider full-blown addiction a scenario where this same car is plowing downhill. Opioid addicts are runaway trains, and only a major undertaking can stop them from destroying themselves.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
