Opioid Addiction Treatment in Chattanooga
Enlightening Programs. Compassionate Support.
Opioid addiction has grown across the country into a crisis that can be considered an epidemic. Opioids are a class of drug that includes several prescription medications, as well as illicit substances such as heroin and fentanyl.
The addictive properties and damaging effects of drugs such as heroin are well documented. Prescription opioids were once known as a safe and effective way to manage pain; however, this image of the drugs turned as people began to realize the dark side of the medications. Opioids are one of the most addictive types of drugs. The use of opioids can destroy lives, and often does. You are taking an important step toward your recovery by looking for help.
At Chattanooga Recovery Center, we understand how powerful the grip of opioid addiction is. The use of opioids is a tough habit to break, but with the help of our dedicated team, you can begin living in serenity. We are dedicated to guiding you toward a healthier and happier way of life.
To get in touch with our team and get started on your recovery today, send us a message or call (423) 226-5331.
At Chattanooga Recovery Center, we walk alongside you as you work to overcome your addiction to live a sober life.
Types of Opioids
An opioid is not a single type of drug. Rather, opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription and non-prescription substances. In general, prescription opioids are used to treat pain. All types of opioid drugs are highly addictive.
The word “opioid” can be used to describe a variety of different types of drugs, including:
- Heroin
- Fentanyl
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
Effects of Opioid Addiction
Addiction is the most significant risk of using opioids. As opioid dependence increases and a person uses a greater amount of the drugs, the physical and mental effects of abuse often become severe. In the short term, opioids can cause effects such as drowsiness, nausea and vomiting, and confusion. Opioids can slow breathing to the point that a person becomes unconscious, falls into a coma, suffers from permanent brain damage, or dies. The use of opioids can significantly damage the internal organs.
Another significant effect of opioid abuse is the withdrawal symptoms that can occur when a person attempts to stop using the drugs on their own. Because opioids are so addictive and create a strong mental and physical dependence, attempting to quit usually brings issues such as severe nausea and vomiting, headaches, restlessness, sweating, and other symptoms. Some people who struggle with opioid use require medication-assisted treatment to wean them off the drug. For these reasons, it is crucial to seek professional help to quit using opioids.
Signs of Opioid Addiction
Signs of opioid addiction can be difficult to see clearly in the early stages, especially in someone you love. Perhaps you've noticed small changes in their behavior or mood that don't add up, or your intuition is telling you there's a problem. It is important to be mindful and take stock of your concerns, as speaking up can potentially save your loved one's life. Keep a close eye for the following signs if you suspect someone you know is struggling with an opioid addiction.
- Regularly taking an opioid in a way not intended by the doctor who prescribed it
- The inability to control opioid use
- Difficulty at school or work
- Sudden, unexplained money problems
- Seeing multiple doctors to get "backup" prescriptions
- Taking opioids "just in case," even when not in pain
- Stealing medications from others or "losing" prescribed pills
- Uncharacteristic isolation from friends or family
- Quickly changing moods
Our Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs
We offer multiple addiction treatment programs that can be tailored to your needs. We know that there is no “one size fits all” approach to recovery, so we provide options to our prospective clients that offer a range of different options on methods of treatment and levels of structure.
Due to the highly addictive properties of opioids, you may benefit from a program that is more structured or has a medical component to it. We offer medication assisted treatment for patients who need a detox component as part of their recovery plan. We also have a partial hospitalization program that incorporates medical addiction treatment into a structured recovery program. Our intensive outpatient program provides a less intensive approach to recovery that allows patients to continue living their life while they complete treatment. For people who work full time during the day, we offer night outpatient treatment. We are available to go into further detail about these programs and advise you on which approach to treatment is best for you.
Recovery is a Phone Call Away
We understand how difficult it is to stop using opioids, and are committed to providing the support you need to begin living a life in recovery. Contact us for more information on Chattanooga Recovery Center.
We are available to speak with you — call (423) 226-5331 or complete our contact form to reach us.
