How to Help on the Road to Recovery

America is falling victim to a drug crisis. The sad part is that so many people remain clueless to the fact, or simply refuse to listen. The word “drug” is such an ugly word and it becomes pure taboo among many middle and upper-class Americans.

If you have been too busy ignoring the issue, it is about time you start researching one of the main killers in the United States: opioids. This drug was originally introduced as a painkiller commonly prescribed post-surgery to patients during recovery. It was thought to be non-addictive, but that was very quickly discredited. In 2017 alone, we lost over 72,000 people to drug overdoses and 70% of those causalities were due to opioid addiction. If you lost your loved one, or you fear you are currently losing your loved one to addiction, you clearly are not alone. Learn more about how addiction happens, the signs of addiction, and the steps to recovery.

Becoming Addicted

There is not one clear answer as to why people become addicted to drugs, but there are a few main identifiable reasons as to why this may happen.

1.Post-Surgery

As we already discussed, prescription painkillers have become a real issue in the United States. What was originally planned for good can quickly go bad. It is best not to take any drugs when you don’t need to. And even if the bottle states to take two pills at a time, start with half of a pill when dealing with powerful pain medications. Most people will not need much medication to relieve their symptoms.

2.Depression

Emotional stress can hit anyone at any time. Depression is not limited to any one household type, income level, or demographic. It can be a silent killer, and chronic sufferers often turn to drugs because the cost of therapy alone is so unaffordable. Drugs create a false sense of hope and happiness for people who unfortunately only feel pain or sadness.

3.Partying

People who party too hard and/or too often find themselves addicted to drugs. Sometimes people are partying because they are depressed. While on the other end of the spectrum, some partiers just wanted to have fun, but could no longer see themselves having any fun without it. Often it can just sneak up on this personality type before they discover that instead of partying without, they simply cannot live without.

Signs of Addiction

Most of those addicted are not going to go up to their loved ones and blatantly state that they have a problem. Usually, the issue must be detected first. While everyone won’t make it noticeable, there are a few things you may notice:

1. The inability to hold a job for any length of time
2. The loss of passion for things they love
3. Trouble using the bathroom
4. Severe loss or increase of appetite
5. Money issues
6. Severe weight loss
7. A distant look in their eyes
8. Disappearance from their place of residence of a long period of time
9. Extreme mood swings
10. Drug paraphernalia

Disclaimer: While these may be signs of addiction, they may also be signs of depression. If you notice this type of behavior, it is important to dig deeper into the root of the issue before jumping to conclusions.

The Steps to Recovery

1.The Attention of Loved Ones

If you watch the award-winning movie Beautiful Boy, you will see just how important family is for recovery. Your loved one may push you away, but they need you now more than ever.

2.A Safer Environment

Remove the negative environment. Addicts need to cut off their friends with bad habits and stop going to nightclubs and parties.

3.The Removal of Bad Substances

If you discover any drugs, discard them. Access to the product is the main issue.

4.Exercise

Working out is good for the body and soul. Exercise may trigger powerful endorphins they are missing.

5.Therapy

If therapy is affordable or covered by your insurance plan, use it. A professional will be able to dig down to the root of the issue.

6.Recovery Centers

For everything under one roof, most people turn to addiction recovery programs. Beyond everything we discussed in this article, many programs offer group therapy, work placement, and sustainable living programs. These are all elements that are crucial in maintaining sobriety.

Remember, anyone can fall victim to addiction, and it is steadily impacting thousands of people across the country. Help your loved ones get help and better their lives today!

Have you or a loved one suffered from drug addiction?

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