Addicts Don’t Wear Labels: Opioid Addiction Can Be Closer Than You Think

Let’s be honest. Addiction doesn’t discriminate. It can happen to anyone at any time. Most of us have been touched by it at some point in our lives. Whether it be a family member, neighbor, friend or even us, opioid addiction cuts across all levels of society. The disturbing part is it may be right under your nose and you don’t even know it.

Removing the stigma

It’s important to understand that opioid addiction doesn’t always prey upon those with risky lifestyles. In fact, a good portion of opioid addiction began with an innocent prescription to manage pain. According to an article published in U.S. News earlier this year, approximately two million Americans are addicted to opioids. From parents and teens to educated professionals and corporate executives, opioids can grip onto the innocent without intention. Whether you’re old or young, black or white, rich or poor, male or female – the risk is real.

Not always a choice

No one wants to become dependent on drugs. It’s not always a choice. Dependency may have started out innocently with a prescription for pain medication to treat a bad toothache or an injury. The problem, however, is there’s a fine line between treating the pain and knowing when to stop. Opioids are so highly addictive, that patients often crave the high long after they’ve treated their pain. We find that in many cases, addiction is exacerbated when prescriptions run out and patients turn to even more dangerous “street drugs” such as heroin or fentanyl. If it’s determined by the patient’s doctor that pain medication is necessary, here are some important steps that can be taken:

• Determine the risk and benefit to taking pain medication
• Do not use opioids for long-term pain management, as this can be risky
• Always take the lowest dose and never mix with alcohol or use any other recreational drugs
• Never consume drugs or medications that are not properly prescribed by your doctor or other healthcare professional.

Functioning addicts

Addicts don’t come with a label. Whether it’s your neighbor mowing his lawn or the mom pushing her child on a swing at the park – it can be anyone. But how would you know? And how do they function? Bad things can happen to good people. You would be surprised how well functioning addicts hold down good jobs and meet their responsibilities, only to hide behind their addiction. Here are some ways you can spot a functioning addict. They:

• Associate with other addicts
• Drink or do more drugs than others
• Make excuses for their behavior
• Lose interest in hobbies
• Feel sick in the morning

A solution to the problem

At Victory Recovery Partners (VRP), we believe there’s hope for everyone. We understand how difficult beating addiction can be. That’s why our priority is to help patients overcome substance use; specifically, opioid addiction. We offer proven solutions to the problem with medication-assisted treatment programs and behavioral health services to help patients who are ready to face their opioid addiction and begin the road to recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. Victory Recovery Partners is here to help. We’re here to provide you with the convenient, high-quality medical care you need and deserve. Visit our website or contact us at 631-696-HELP (4357) to begin your journey to recovery today.