In today’s modern world, the topic of addiction is nothing new. On a worldwide scale, drug and alcohol abuse has been an ongoing problem since practically the beginning of time. Recently, however, prescription drug addiction—specifically opioid addiction—has skyrocketed to become one of the country’s most common afflictions. Exactly what is opioid addiction?
What is Opioid Addiction?
Doctors and physicians prescribe opioids and synthetic opioids to provide pain relief. This includes various forms of hydrocodone and oxycodone. When taken exactly as prescribed, these painkillers offer effective pain relief following surgery or an injury. When individuals take these drugs more often or in higher doses than prescribed, however, they put themselves at higher risk of developing an opioid addiction.
Opioids activate the brain’s reward center and make it practically impossible for these “feel good” sensors to shut off. Once the body and brain become accustomed to these effects, it’s difficult for the brain and body to function properly.
What is Opioid Addiction: Identifying the Symptoms?
Addiction impacts people differently, but there are some classic signs and symptoms to look for. Some of these signs and symptoms include:
- Feelings of euphoria/elation
- Appearing sedated or lethargic
- Confusion
- Constricted pupils
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Consistently nodding off or being unable to stay conscious
- Continuing to use opioids despite negative consequences to one’s physical or mental well-being
Help for Prescription Drug Addiction
If you find yourself struggling to overcome the dangerous and recurring cycle of opioid addiction, Crestview Recovery in Portland, Oregon, has the tools and resources to get you clean and back on your feet. Our 30-bed rehab facility provides individuals with a safe, therapeutic haven where they can receive the compassionate treatment and individual attention needed to successfully combat their addiction.
We provide multiple levels of opioid addiction treatment, including:
- Extended care
- Partial hospitalization
- Intensive outpatient
- Outpatient
- Detox Referrals
In these opioid addiction treatment options, there are also a variety of addiction therapies. These are essential in the process of treating addiction. We use a combination of holistic and evidence-based therapies to help you. Our evidenced-based therapies may include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- 12 Step Treatments
Along with these evidence-based therapies, we also provide experiential therapies such as white water rafting, skiing, and snowboarding, ensuring that individuals get the most out of the recovery process.
We understand that making the decision to seek professional addiction help can be overwhelming—and even a bit frightening. Our staff goes to great lengths to take the discomfort and stress out of the recovery process. Our top priority is to help individuals become independent and capable of living a substance-free life.
To learn more about our programs and how to get started on your own path to successful sober living, give Crestview Recovery a call today at 866.262.0531.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
