If you are struggling with opioid addiction, you may be wondering what your first step should be on the path to recovery. At Cascade Heights, we offer the support and care you need to start sobriety on the right foot at our opioid detox center in Washington State. Our facility offers the perfect atmosphere for those in recovery. At our treatment center, you will receive comprehensive care to ensure long-term sobriety.
What Are Opioids?
Opioids are a class of drugs that include both legal prescription medications and illegal substances. They work by mimicking natural chemicals in the brain that reduce pain, as well as produce feelings of euphoria.
Prescription opioids are medications prescribed by doctors to manage moderate to severe pain. Some of the most commonly prescribed include oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and fentanyl.
Illicit opioids, on the other hand, are illegal drugs that are not prescribed by a doctor. This includes dangerous substances like heroin and illegally manufactured fentanyl. Illicit opioids are a major problem in the U.S., contributing to high abuse and overdose rates throughout the country.
Types of Opioid Drugs
There are several types of opioid drugs that are commonly used, both legally and illicitly. It is important to know the most commonly prescribed and abused opioids. This can help you keep yourself and your loved ones safe from the effects of opioid use and abuse.
Heroin
Heroin is a highly addictive opioid drug. It is derived from morphine, a natural substance extracted from the opium poppy plant. Heroin is most commonly sold as a white or brownish powder. It can also come in the form of a black sticky substance known as black tar heroin.
According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, fourteen thousand Americans die every year from a heroin overdose. This is because heroin is a very strong opioid and can quickly lead to overdose when misused.
Oxycodone
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic medication. It is often used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by changing the way the brain and nervous systems respond to pain. While this medication is a common treatment option for those who have proven resistant to other painkillers, it does have its risks.
Oxycodone can be highly addictive, as well as lead to serious health problems, including overdose and death. This is why it is important to only use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid. While similar to morphine, it has been found to be 50 to 100 times more potent in its effects. As a Schedule II controlled substance, Fentanyl has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
Fentanyl is typically used to treat severe pain, such as after surgery or for cancer patients. It is also available as a transdermal patch for long-term pain management. Unfortunately, it is more often used illicitly, contributing to a significant spike in overdose hospitalizations and deaths.
Codeine
Codeine is a common opioid pain reliever. It is most often used to treat mild to moderately severe pain. It is also used in combination with other medications to reduce coughing. As an opioid, codeine can be addictive, even when used as prescribed. As with any other opioid, it is important to take these medications only as approved by a healthcare professional.
What Are the Dangers of Opioid Abuse?
The dangers of opioid abuse are significant and far-reaching. When abused, these drugs can impact various aspects of your life. This includes your physical and mental well-being, as well as your social life, family, and career. Understanding the dangers of opioid abuse can help you realize when it may be time to seek professional help.
High Potential for Overdose and Death
Opioids have a high potential for overdose and death. This is due to their primary mechanism of action: slowing down the central nervous system. In particular, opioids affect the respiratory system, slowing it down. In severe cases, this can lead to respiratory depression, as the body is unable to get enough oxygen. If left unaddressed, this can lead to serious brain damage and even death.
Opioids Are Extremely Addictive
Opioids are highly addictive, and regular use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms because opioids can cause intense feelings of euphoria; those who use them often feel compelled to continue using in order to keep experiencing this high.
With repeated use, it does not take long to become hooked. Unfortunately, once an addiction has developed, it can be incredibly difficult to stop using these drugs without help. This is because opioids can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, which can be dangerous if left untreated.
Building a Tolerance to the Drugs
People build a tolerance to opioids through repeated use. As the body becomes accustomed to the drug, it will begin to require increasingly higher doses to achieve the same effect. This is due to a complex process involving changes in the brain’s chemistry and receptor sensitivity.
Opioids work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. With repeated use, the brain reduces the number of these receptors. This is what makes these drugs less effective over time, causing people to need more of them to continue achieving the same effect.
Health Problems
Opioid abuse can lead to several serious health problems, including both physical and mental health effects. Some of the most common side effects associated with opioid abuse include:
- Organ Damage: Long-term opioid use can damage the liver, kidneys, and heart.
- Weakened Immune System: Opioid abuse can compromise the body’s ability to fight off infections.
- Infections: Injecting opioids increases the risk of infections like HIV and hepatitis C.
- Depression and Anxiety: Opioid abuse can worsen existing mental health conditions or trigger new ones.
- Cognitive Impairment: Long-term use can lead to difficulties with memory, concentration, and decision-making.
- Increased Risk of Suicide: Opioid addiction can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
It is important to keep in mind that even prescribed opioids can be dangerous if misused. If you are experiencing any adverse health effects from taking opioids, it is important to seek professional help.
Social Impact
Opioid abuse can have a serious impact on your social life and relationships. Some of the major ways in which opioid abuse can affect your life include:
- Relationship Problems: Opioid abuse can strain relationships with family and friends.
- Financial Difficulties: The cost of obtaining and using opioids can lead to financial hardship.
- Legal Issues: Possession and use of illegal opioids can result in legal trouble.
- Job Loss: Opioid addiction can negatively impact job performance and lead to job loss.
Addiction
Are you struggling with an addiction to substances like drugs and alcohol?
Royal Life Centers at Cascade Heights Recovery is here to help you recover. Because we care.
How Does an Opioid Detox Program in Washington State Work?
Opioid detox is a process of gradually withdrawing from opioid use under medical supervision. It is essential to undergo this process in a controlled environment. Our opioid detox Washington State treatment center helps you manage your withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
Initial Assessment and Treatment Plan
Your first step in the opioid detox process will be to undergo an initial assessment with one of our addiction specialists. They will assess your physical and mental health. This includes your opioid use history and dependence level. They will also identify any underlying medical conditions that may complicate the detox process.
Medication-assisted treatment for Opioids
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves using medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Common medications used in our opioid detox program include:
- Methadone: This synthetic opioid can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
- Buprenorphine: This partial opioid agonist can also help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Naltrexone: This medication blocks the effects of opioids, reducing the risk of relapse.
Evidence-Based Psychotherapies
In addition to MAT, we offer several evidence-based psychotherapies as part of our approach to opioid detox and recovery. Some of the therapeutic interventions you will have access to include:
- Counseling: This can help address underlying emotional and psychological issues that may contribute to opioid addiction.
- Behavioral Therapies: Therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CTB) can help you develop coping skills and strategies to avoid relapse.
- Group Therapy: This can provide support and encouragement from others who are going through similar experiences.
Holistic Therapy Options
Holistic therapy for opioid addiction focuses on treating the whole person. When used in combination with our evidence-based practices, these address your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Some of the holistic therapy options we use at our detox facility include:
- Yoga and Meditation
- Mind-Body Therapies
- Creative Therapies
- Nutritional Counseling
What Happens After Opioid Detox in Washington State?
Opioid detox is just the first step in the journey to recovery. Once your withdrawal symptoms have subsided, you may still face a range of challenges as you work to rebuild your life. It is important to remember that recovery is a lifelong process. There may be setbacks along the way. But, with consistent effort and support, you can achieve lasting sobriety and achieve a happier, healthier life.
Inpatient Treatment for Opioid Detox in Washington State
Inpatient treatment for opioid detox provides a structured, controlled environment. Here, you can safely withdraw from opioids under medical supervision. This level of care is often necessary if you are struggling with a severe addiction or have underlying issues, such as a medical or mental health condition. At Cascade Heights, our inpatient program offers 24/7 medical supervision, individualized treatment plans, aftercare planning, and more.
Outpatient Treatment for Opioid Detox in Washington State
Outpatient treatment for opioid detox offers a more flexible approach to recovery. Our outpatient program allows you to maintain your daily routine while receiving professional care. This option is suitable if you have a milder addiction and a strong support system. As part of our outpatient program, you will be able to participate in regular therapy sessions, support groups, MAT, and various other services designed to help you maintain sobriety.
Aftercare and Recovery Support Groups in Washington State
Aftercare and recovery support groups play a crucial role in maintaining long-term sobriety from opioid addiction. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment where you can connect with others who share similar experiences. They can help you learn new coping strategies, celebrate your successes, and stay committed to your sobriety.
Finding a Reliable Opioid Recovery Program in Washington State
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, it is important to know that you are not alone. In light of the serious consequences caused by opioid addiction, Washington State has made significant efforts to provide effective prevention and treatment options.
Cascade Heights offers extensive support and recovery services to those struggling with opioid addiction. We work with you one-on-one to develop a treatment plan that addresses each of your personal care needs and recovery goals. Our aftercare program can help with relapse prevention after completing our opioid detox program in Washington State.
If you are ready to start your addiction treatment and recovery, our substance abuse and behavioral health professionals are here to help. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to answer any treatment questions you may have about our treatment programs and help you understand what levels of care will be a good fit for you.
