Did you know that the Opioid Crisis partially stems from a group of drugs that are highly addictive and 100% legal? Over the course of several decades, doctors have prescribed a flood of painkillers called opioids to patients suffering from chronic pain or recovering from severe injuries. Although some people can easily wean themselves off these drugs after they feel better, some individuals are not so lucky and become physically dependent or addicted to these dangerous chemicals. So, for a moment, imagine if you suffered from a severe injury, and your doctor provided you with a prescription for opioids. Would you take the prescription or opt for an alternative form of relief? Perhaps you have been in this boat and have already suffered through opioid problems. Let’s take a closer look at the connection between athletic injuries and drug addiction as an example.
Athletic Injuries and Painkillers
Generally, when you hear about the world of sports and drug addiction, you will probably picture anabolic steroids as the poison of choice. However, under these circumstances, these performance-enhancing drugs actually take a backseat to opioids. While they are enduring endless bouts of physical activities, athletes’ brains experience a rush of dopamine, which also happens to take place when opioids enter the bloodstream.
Likewise, a life of pain due to incessant injuries is also a precursor for many athletes to experiment with these drugs. Due to overwhelming pain and early retirement, some athletes may also feel unfulfilled and turn to drugs and alcohol as a means of coping with their seemingly hopeless situation. In fact, 52% of retired NFL players admitted to taking prescription opioids, while 71% of these players revealed they had abused these drugs at some point during their careers.
Which Opioids Are Abused the Most?
Overall, research indicates that, within the landscape of powerful painkillers, athletes generally prefer Vicodin (a softer and less dangerous opioid), OxyContin (also known as oxycodone), and Percocet. However, these men and women may also indulge in some drugs that are used to treat ADHD, specifically Adderall and Ritalin.
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
