The allure of taking a pill to relieve pain and cure illnesses has become widespread and commonplace in our society. That allure has resulted in an overwhelming number of cases of prescription drug dependency. Prescription drug manufacturing is a billion dollar industry due to our dependence upon the quick fix remedy. But there are ways in which one can detox from the chemicals and dependency on prescription drugs.
THE NUMBER OF CASES AND TYPES OF DRUGS
In 2016 The National Study on Drug and Health reported that 28.6 million Americans overused prescription drugs. The National Institute on Drug Abuse lists the following categories as the most commonly abused prescription drugs.
- Depressants
- Barbiturates
- Benzodiazepines
- Sleep Medications
- Opioids and Morphine
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Methadone
- Fentanyl and Analogs
- Stimulants
- Amphetamines
- Methylphenidate
THE PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSER
Prescription drug abuse can affect anyone from any economic or social background. One of the main reason for this is because they are simply easy to get. One of the most common ways a person abuses prescription drugs is to take medicine that was not prescribed to them, but to someone else. Whether a person can afford and have access to luxury health care by the finest doctors, or one seeks medical care from one of our governmental agencies, getting a doctor to write you a prescription for you is a simple as describing a symptom to them.
Studies have shown that more males are addicted to prescription drugs than females. The National Drug Institute states that “men are more likely than women to use almost all types of illicit drugs, and illicit drug use is more likely to result in emergency department visits or overdose deaths for men than women.” https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/substance-use-in-women/sex-gender-differences-in-substance-use
However, the number of female prescription drug abusers is climbing at a fast rate and should not be taken lightly.
Prescription drug abuse can affect anyone and at any age. The question as to why a rational individual becomes dependent on a prescription drug is not easy to answer. Other than, it temporarily fixes the symptoms but does not cure the condition.
LETTING THE PILLS GO
The first step, and often deemed the hardest, is for the drug abuser to admit to having an addiction and dependence on prescription drugs. Once recognized he or she should begin the process of detoxing not only the body but also the mind from this dependence. Speaking with a doctor will begin the process.
One should also seek the support of a rehabilitation center. Many local government agencies offer both inpatient and outpatient rehab centers that will help the abuser focus on recovery. One of the best things a person can do to overcome prescription drug abuse is to seek holistic alternatives to aches and pains of the body.
The process may be long and challenging, but with hard work, dedication and a desire to heal a prescription drug abuser can let go of the pills and function without them.
Asana Recovery provides a safe and comfortable environment for our clients to focus on their recovery. We specialize in medically supervised detox programs. We also offer a residential drug treatment facility near the coast in Orange County. If you or someone you love is suffering from the disease of addiction, we can help. Call us today at 949-438-4504 to speak with one of our compassionate and caring admissions counselors and being your journey towards a clean and sober life.
