Opioid addiction remains one of the most significant substance misuse issues in the United States. The opioid epidemic persists and, in some ways, has morphed. Addiction to prescription opioids often leads to addiction to dangerous drugs like fentanyl. Moreover, people who believe they are buying a lower-grade opioid may, in fact, be getting a substance laced with fentanyl. The rise of fentanyl as the opioid to watch out for coincides with an increase in opioid-related deaths. This means looking for the signs of opioid addiction in a loved one may be a matter of life and death. The earlier you can intervene, the better. Learn more about our opioid and substance abuse treatment in California by calling 877.279.1777. Located blocks away from the serene waters of the Pacific Ocean, we provide an environment that fosters healing and growth. A healthier life is possible.
What Is Opioid Addiction?
Opioid addiction is a chronic condition where a person compulsively uses opioids, even when faced with negative consequences. Opioids are potent painkillers that come in many forms, including prescription medications (such as oxycodone or hydrocodone) and illicit drugs (such as heroin). People can become addicted to opioids after taking them for a valid medical reason or to achieve a pleasurable “high.”
Opioid addiction causes changes in the brain that can make it difficult for an addict to stop using without help. People addicted to opioids may have difficulty keeping up with work or school, and their relationships may suffer as a result. As opioid addiction takes hold, mental and physical health often deteriorate.
3 Common Signs of Opioid Addiction
What opioid addiction signs should you watch out for? At first, people with an opioid addiction may be able to keep up some semblance of normality. They may continue working and upholding family responsibilities. Yet it is almost impossible to hide an addiction forever.
Ideally, you can spot these opioid addiction signs before your loved one spirals out of control and suffers significant consequences. Here are three common signs of opioid addiction to look for.
Doctor Shopping
When it comes to prescription opioids, doctor shopping is a hallmark sign that your loved one is struggling with an addiction. This is when a person visits multiple doctors to get simultaneous opioid prescriptions. This allows them to take a larger amount more often, thereby fueling a substance use disorder.
Mood Swings
Mood swings are common among those who struggle with an opioid use disorder. Your loved one may go from elation one moment to hostility the next. Or they may seem down for long periods of time and then brighten occasionally for no reason. This could be a result of feeling up in the moments when they have just used opioids and down in the moments between.
Sleep Issues
Drug use often interferes with the body’s sleep cycles. Insomnia is one of the most significant side effects of opioid use. Noticing exactly how much your loved one is sleeping may be hard to pin down, even if it’s your partner who shares a bed. But watch for the ways bad sleep trickles over into the daytime. This can look like fatigue, lethargy, and poor concentration.
Notice Opioid Addiction Signs? Get Help at Oceanfront Recovery
Have you noticed one or more signs of opioid addiction in your loved one? Take advantage of the expert treatment services at Oceanfront Recovery. We offer comprehensive addiction treatment, including:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Inpatient and outpatient programming
- Support groups
Getting help for opioid use can save lives.
Find Healing at Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach, California
At Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach, California, we understand the complex nature of opioid addiction. We use evidence-based and holistic therapies to help people get their lives back on track. Our addiction treatment center offers a safe space for healing so that clients can rediscover themselves and reclaim their lives from the grips of addiction. Discover how we can support your loved one through the recovery process by contacting us at 877.279.1777.
