A co-occurring opioid addiction can seriously complicate an existing mental health disorder. Opioids affect the brains “reward center” and influence the production of neurotransmitters. This can mask or change symptoms of other mental illnesses and affect the way psychiatric medications work. TruHealing Gaithersburg offers specialized treatment for individuals with mental health disorders who also have a co-occurring addiction to opioids.
What Are Opioids?
Opioids are a class of drugs that function by interacting with opioid receptors in the brain. This process can create an intense feeling of relaxation and pleasure and may also reduce pain. Opioids are most potent when injected and may either be a prescription or illegal drug such as:
- Heroin
- Pain relievers like morphine, codeine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone
- Fentanyl and synthetic opioids
The dangers of opioid use began to be apparent in the late 1990s. Before the 90s, pharmaceutical companies assured the medical community that opioid prescriptions were non-addictive and completely safe. Because of this, healthcare practitioners started to prescribe opioids frequently, sparking the misuse of opioids and the resultant epidemic.
Signs That Someone with Mental Illness is Also Abusing Opioids
There are unique behavioral indications that are associated with opioid addiction. If you or a loved one with a mental health disorder seems dedicated to obtaining and using opioids, this is probably associated with addiction.
Aside from this obvious red flag, other telltale signs can indicate that one may need help from an opioid addiction treatment program. First, if they behave in ways that put themselves or other people at risk, treatment should be pursued. If someone is compromising their values or experiencing problems with relationships, these factors may also be a manifestation of opioid addiction. Other signs of opioid addction include:
- Uncontrollable cravings
- Decreased libido
- Flu-like symptoms
- Weight loss
- Isolation
- Drowsiness
Continued misuse of opioids leads to opioid use disorder (OUD). When this condition is left untreated, those with OUD may continue to abuse the drug despite the onset of health issues. They may also be dealing with personal disruptions, such as the inability to attend work and school or manage other responsibilities.
How Can Treatment Help with Mental Illness and Co-Occurring Opioid Addiction?
A person with a mental health disorder who is also opioid dependent is best served by treatment which addresses both conditions head on. At TruHealing Gaithersburg, that’s exactly what we have to offer. The opioid addiction portion of treatment focuses on managing withdrawal symptoms, which can decrease the risk of relapse. We help people embrace a sober lifestyle along with diagnosing and treating mental health disorders. Among other things, the goal is o move towards life-long sobriety, which in turn makes mental illnesses much easier to manage.
To help clients apply newly-learned healthy lifestyle changes, counseling and therapy are also included in the treatment program. These treatment therapies address the emotional and psychological aspects of dependency. With this support and treatment, those who struggle with opioid addiction can combat this dangerous addiction and live a life free of drugs. Some of the other key components of our mental health and co-occurring opioid addiction treatment program in Maryland include:
- Medical detox
- Holistic therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Substance abuse history assessment
- Mental health and wellness
- Nutritional planning
- Post-rehab planning
It is important to note that the rehabilitation pace varies depending on the person. While there are milestones that signal healing from opioid use, each person’s recovery path is unique and is based on their specific situation and challenges. Thus, depending on their needs, they can participate in rehab programs such as:
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Continuing care
Our treatment program in Maryland will help an individual regain and maintain optimum health and manage withdrawal symptoms while also managing any other mental health disorders.
Help for Your Co-Occurring Opioid Addiction at TruHealing Gaithersburg
Clearing opioids from one’s system is no easy feat, but an effective opioid addiction treatment program ensures that participants are as comfortable as possible in a setting that may otherwise be very difficult. If you know someone dealing with a mental health disorder and a co-occurring opioid addiction, talk to them and encourage them to take action. So to learn more about finding help, contact TruHealing Gaithersburg today at (833) 625-0398.
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