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Opioid Addiction Treatment in Baltimore: Breaking Free from Dependence

Opioid Addiction Treatment in Baltimore: Breaking Free from Dependence

Opioid addiction is one of the most challenging and widespread public health crises in Baltimore and across the United States. From prescription painkillers to illicit drugs like heroin and fentanyl, opioids can create a cycle of dependence that devastates individuals, families, and communities. This article delves into opioid addiction treatment in Baltimore, focusing on the path to recovery for couples, the importance of both residential and outpatient programs, detox options, sober living, and the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). By exploring these facets, we can better understand how those struggling with opioid addiction can break free from dependence.

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Introduction: The Opioid Crisis in Baltimore

Baltimore has been disproportionately impacted by the opioid epidemic, with rising rates of overdose deaths and addiction cases. The availability of opioids, coupled with socio-economic challenges, has left many individuals and couples caught in the web of dependence. Despite these daunting circumstances, Baltimore is home to numerous treatment centers that provide comprehensive care to help individuals regain control of their lives.

For couples facing opioid addiction, seeking treatment together offers a unique opportunity for mutual support, understanding, and healing. Couples Rehab programs allow partners to navigate the complexities of addiction recovery as a team, sharing their progress and setbacks, and ultimately building a stronger, healthier future.

Understanding Opioid Addiction

Opioids, whether prescription-based or illicit, are highly addictive. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, producing pain relief and feelings of euphoria. Over time, the body builds a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects, leading to physical and psychological dependence. When individuals try to quit, they experience intense withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to break free without professional help.

The Need for Comprehensive Treatment

Opioid addiction isn’t just about the physical dependence on the drug; it also involves emotional, behavioral, and social components. A successful recovery approach needs to address these layers through detoxification, counseling, therapy, and ongoing support in environments that encourage long-term sobriety.

Breaking Free from Dependence: The Role of Couples Rehab

Couples struggling with opioid addiction often share similar challenges but may also face unique dynamics in their relationship that can exacerbate substance use. In couples rehab, partners are encouraged to confront their addiction together, which helps strengthen their bond and allows them to hold each other accountable. Treatment programs for couples focus not only on the individual’s needs but also on improving communication, rebuilding trust, and fostering a healthier partnership.

Benefits of Couples Rehab

  1. Mutual Support: Going through treatment together allows couples to motivate and support each other. Witnessing your partner’s progress can be a powerful motivator to stay committed to your own recovery.
  2. Strengthening Relationships: Couples rehab focuses on healing the relationship as well as the individual. By addressing communication issues, emotional pain, and codependency, couples can rebuild a healthy, drug-free relationship.
  3. Tailored Therapy: Many couples benefit from a combination of individual therapy and joint counseling sessions. These dual approaches ensure that both personal struggles and relational dynamics are addressed.

Residential Treatment: A Comprehensive Approach to Recovery

For individuals or couples dealing with severe opioid addiction, residential treatment programs offer the most intensive level of care. In a residential setting, patients live at the treatment facility, away from the triggers and stresses of daily life, allowing them to focus entirely on their recovery.

What to Expect from Residential Treatment in Baltimore

  1. Detoxification (Detox): The first step in recovery is detox, a medically supervised process where the body clears itself of opioids. Withdrawal symptoms can be intense and uncomfortable, but medical professionals can provide medications to ease these effects and ensure a safe detox.
  2. Structured Therapy: After detox, patients begin a series of therapies, including individual counseling, group therapy, and couple’s sessions. These sessions aim to address the psychological aspects of addiction and teach coping strategies.
  3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most effective therapies for opioid addiction. This therapeutic approach helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their addiction. In couples rehab, CBT can also help improve relationship dynamics and reduce the risk of relapse by addressing triggers together.
  4. Holistic Treatments: Many residential programs offer holistic approaches such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, and fitness programs to promote overall well-being and stress management.

Outpatient Treatment: Flexibility in Recovery

Not everyone can commit to a full-time residential program, especially if they have work, family, or other obligations. For couples in this situation, outpatient programs offer a more flexible approach to recovery while still providing essential support and therapy.

Advantages of Outpatient Treatment

  1. Flexibility: Outpatient programs allow individuals to receive treatment while maintaining their daily responsibilities. They can attend therapy sessions during the day or evening and return home afterward.
  2. Continued Support: While outpatient treatment doesn’t require staying at the facility, it still offers access to therapy, medical support, and peer groups to maintain accountability and focus.
  3. Individualized Care: Like residential programs, outpatient treatment can be customized to fit the needs of each patient, whether that includes detox, counseling, or ongoing therapy.
  4. Gradual Transition: For those completing a residential program, outpatient treatment serves as a transitional phase to help individuals reintegrate into their daily lives while still receiving professional support.

Detox: The Crucial First Step

Detox is the critical first phase in opioid addiction treatment. Given the physical dependence opioids create, abruptly stopping their use can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, anxiety, and insomnia. In a medically supervised detox program, patients receive care to manage these symptoms and make the process more tolerable and safe.

Medication-Assisted Detox

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is often used during detox to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone help by stabilizing brain chemistry, reducing cravings, and blocking the effects of opioids. This approach can greatly increase the chances of a successful detox and long-term recovery.

Opioid Addiction Treatment in Baltimore: Breaking Free from Dependence

Sober Living: A Supportive Environment for Lasting Recovery

After completing residential or outpatient treatment, transitioning to sober living homes can offer additional support. These environments provide a drug-free space where individuals and couples can continue their recovery journey surrounded by peers who share similar experiences.

The Importance of Sober Living Homes

  1. Structure and Accountability: Sober living homes offer a structured environment with curfews, chores, and rules, promoting responsibility and discipline in daily life.
  2. Community Support: Living with others who are also in recovery fosters a sense of community and shared understanding, making it easier to stay on track.
  3. Bridging the Gap: Sober living acts as a bridge between intensive treatment and fully reintegrating into society, giving individuals the time and space to rebuild their lives and relationships.

The Role of CBT in Opioid Addiction Treatment

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a cornerstone of effective opioid addiction treatment. This evidence-based therapy helps patients understand the link between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By recognizing and challenging negative patterns, patients can develop healthier ways of coping with stress, cravings, and triggers.

How CBT Helps in Recovery

  1. Changing Thought Patterns: CBT teaches individuals how to identify and modify thoughts that lead to destructive behaviors, helping them regain control over their decision-making processes.
  2. Addressing Triggers: A key component of CBT is learning to recognize and avoid triggers—whether emotional, environmental, or relational—that could lead to relapse.
  3. Improving Communication for Couples: In couples rehab, CBT focuses on improving communication between partners, addressing codependency issues, and creating a supportive environment that reduces the risk of relapse.

FAQ’s

1. What is opioid addiction?

Opioid addiction is a dependence on opioid drugs, which include prescription painkillers, heroin, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl. It is characterized by a strong craving for the drug, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug.

2. How can couples rehab help with opioid addiction?

Couples rehab provides joint therapy for partners dealing with opioid addiction. It helps improve communication, rebuild trust, and offer mutual support, making it easier to tackle addiction together.

3. What is a residential treatment program?

A residential treatment program involves living at a facility while receiving intensive care for opioid addiction. It includes detox, therapy, and holistic treatments in a structured environment to support recovery.

4. What is outpatient treatment?

Outpatient treatment allows individuals to receive therapy and support while continuing with daily responsibilities. It provides flexibility and includes counseling, medication management, and group therapy sessions.

5. What is detoxification (detox)?

Detox is the process of clearing opioids from the body under medical supervision. It helps manage withdrawal symptoms and ensures a safe transition to further treatment.

6. How does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help in addiction recovery?

CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with addiction. It teaches coping strategies to manage cravings, triggers, and stress.

7. What is sober living?

Sober living refers to a supportive, drug-free housing environment for individuals in recovery. It provides structure, accountability, and a sense of community as individuals transition from treatment to independent living.

8. Can couples rehab work if one partner is not addicted?

Yes, couples rehab can be effective even if only one partner is addicted. The non-addicted partner can learn how to support their loved one and address relationship dynamics that may impact recovery.

9. What should I look for in a rehab program?

Look for a program that offers a comprehensive approach to treatment, including detox, therapy options like CBT, and support for both individual and relationship issues. Ensure the program is licensed and has a good track record of success.

10. How long does treatment typically last?

Treatment duration varies based on individual needs. Residential programs generally last 30 to 90 days, while outpatient programs may extend for several months, depending on the person’s progress and recovery goals.

Embracing Recovery and Breaking Free

Opioid addiction is a powerful and complex challenge, but recovery is possible with the right treatment, support, and determination. Whether through residential or outpatient programs, detox, or the use of therapies like CBT, individuals and couples in Baltimore have a wide array of resources to help them break free from dependence.

Ready to take the first step toward recovery? At Couples Rehab Baltimore, we’re here to support you and your partner through every stage of your journey. Reach out to us today to learn more about our specialized opioid addiction treatment programs, including residential and outpatient options, detox services, and therapy sessions like CBT.

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Drug Rehabs That Take Cigna Insurance in Huntington Beach, California

Drug Rehabs That Take Cigna Insurance in Los Angeles

Huntington Beach Cigna Drug Rehab Centers

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, finding the right drug rehab center can be a daunting task. It can be even more challenging if you have Cigna insurance and are looking for drug rehab centers that accept it. Fortunately, there are many drug rehab centers in Huntington Beach, California that accept Cigna insurance. In this article, we will discuss Cigna drug rehab coverage, drug rehab that accepts Cigna, and Cigna drug rehab centers in Huntington Beach, California.

Cigna Drug Rehab Coverage

Cigna is a health insurance company that offers coverage for addiction treatment. The coverage for addiction treatment varies depending on the plan you have. Cigna offers different plans that cover different levels of addiction treatment. Some plans may only cover outpatient treatment, while others may cover inpatient treatment as well. It is important to check your plan to see what is covered.

Does Cigna Cover Drug Rehab?

Yes, Cigna does cover drug rehab. Cigna understands the importance of addiction treatment and offers coverage for it. However, the coverage for drug rehab varies depending on the plan you have. It is important to check your plan to see what is covered.

Drug Rehab That Accepts Cigna

There are many drug rehab centers in Huntington Beach, California that accept Cigna insurance. Here are some of the drug rehab centers that accept Cigna:

  • Broadway Treatment Center
  • Couples Rehab
  • Innovation Recovery

These are just a few of the drug rehab centers in Huntington Beach that accept Cigna insurance. It is important to do your research and find the right drug rehab center for you or your loved one.

Cigna Drug Rehab Centers

In addition to the drug rehab centers that accept Cigna insurance, there are also Cigna drug rehab centers in Huntington Beach, California. These drug rehab centers are specifically designed to provide addiction treatment to those with Cigna insurance. Here are some of the Cigna drug rehab centers in Huntington Beach:

  • West Coast Rehab
  • Orange County Detox
  • California Behavioral Health
  • Pure Life Recovery
  • Recover Integrity for Men

These Cigna drug rehab centers offer a variety of addiction treatment programs, including inpatient and outpatient treatment, detox, and therapy. They are staffed with experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping those struggling with addiction.

Conclusion

Finding the right drug rehab center can be a challenging task, especially if you have Cigna insurance. However, there are many drug rehab centers in Huntington Beach, California that accept Cigna insurance. It is important to do your research and find the right drug rehab center for you or your loved one. Remember, addiction treatment is a crucial step towards recovery, and with the right support, it is possible to overcome addiction.

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Drug Rehabs That Take Cigna Insurance in Los Angeles

Drug Rehabs That Take Cigna Insurance in Los Angeles

Los Angeles Cigna Drug Rehab Couples Programs

Drug addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people across the United States, including in Los Angeles, California. Fortunately, there are drug rehab centers that accept Cigna insurance, making it easier for individuals to get the help they need to overcome their addiction. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about drug rehab centers that take Cigna insurance in Los Angeles.

What is Cigna Insurance?

Cigna is a health insurance company that provides coverage to individuals and families across the United States. Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans, including plans that cover addiction treatment. If you have Cigna insurance, you may be able to get coverage for drug rehab treatment in Los Angeles.

Does Cigna Cover Drug Rehab?

Yes, Cigna does cover drug rehab treatment. However, the amount of coverage you receive will depend on your specific insurance plan. Some Cigna plans may cover the full cost of drug rehab treatment, while others may only cover a portion of the cost.

It is important to check with your insurance provider to determine what your specific plan covers. You can also contact drug rehab centers in Los Angeles that accept Cigna insurance to find out what your coverage options are.

Cigna Drug Rehab Coverage

Cigna drug rehab coverage varies depending on the plan you have. Some plans may cover the full cost of drug rehab treatment, while others may only cover a portion of the cost. In general, Cigna insurance plans that cover addiction treatment will cover the following services:

  • Inpatient drug rehab
  • Outpatient drug rehab
  • Detoxification
  • Medication-assisted treatment
  • Individual and group therapy sessions
  • Aftercare services

It is important to note that some Cigna plans may require pre-authorization for drug rehab treatment. This means that you will need to get approval from Cigna before you can start treatment. To find out if your plan requires pre-authorization, contact your insurance provider.

Drug Rehab That Accepts Cigna

There are several drug rehab centers in Los Angeles that accept Cigna insurance. Here are a few options:

1. Broadway Treatment Center

Broadway Treatment Center is a luxury drug rehab center in Los Angeles that accepts Cigna insurance. The center offers a range of addiction treatment services, including detoxification, inpatient and outpatient treatment, and aftercare services. 

2. Innovation Recovery

Innovation Recovery is a drug rehab center in California that accepts Cigna insurance. The center offers a range of addiction treatment services, including detoxification, inpatient and outpatient treatment, and aftercare services. Innovation Recovery is located in a peaceful, natural setting in the Santa Monica Mountains.

3. Couples Rehab

Couples Rehab is a drug rehab center in Los Angeles that accepts Cigna insurance. The center offers a range of addiction treatment services, including detoxification, inpatient and outpatient treatment, and aftercare services. Couples Rehab r is located in a modern, comfortable facility in Los Angeles.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one is struggling with drug addiction in Los Angeles, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. There are drug rehab centers in Los Angeles that accept Cigna insurance, making it easier for individuals to get the help they need to overcome their addiction. Contact your insurance provider or a drug rehab center that accepts Cigna insurance to find out what your coverage options are.

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Couples Addiction Treatment in Anaheim, California

Drug Rehabs That Take Cigna Insurance in Los Angeles

Anaheim Couples Addiction Treatment

When it comes to addiction, it can be a difficult journey for anyone to overcome. But for couples struggling with addiction, the journey can be even more challenging. Addiction can strain relationships, lead to financial problems, and cause emotional turmoil. That’s why couples addiction treatment is so important. In Anaheim, California, there are several rehab centers that offer specialized treatment for couples struggling with addiction.

What is Couples Addiction Treatment?

Couples addiction treatment is a form of rehab that is specifically designed to help couples overcome addiction together. This type of treatment can be beneficial for couples who are struggling with substance abuse, alcoholism, or other addictions. During couples addiction treatment, couples will work together to address their addiction issues and learn how to support each other in recovery.

Why Choose Couples Rehab Centers?

There are several benefits to choosing a couples rehab center for addiction treatment. First and foremost, couples rehab centers offer a safe and supportive environment for couples to work on their recovery together. This can be especially helpful for couples who may be hesitant to seek treatment on their own. Additionally, couples rehab centers offer specialized treatment programs that are tailored to the unique needs of couples. This can include couples therapy, family counseling, and other forms of support that are designed to help couples rebuild their relationship and overcome addiction.

Couples Addiction Treatment Centers in Anaheim, California

If you’re looking for couples addiction treatment in Anaheim, California, there are several rehab centers to choose from. Here are a few options:

  • Couples Rehab – Couples Rehab is a rehab center that offers specialized treatment for couples struggling with addiction. Their couples rehab program includes individual and group therapy, family counseling, and other forms of support to help couples overcome addiction together.
  • 2. Broadway Treatment Center – Broadway Treatment Center is a rehab center that offers a couples addiction treatment program that is designed to help couples overcome addiction and rebuild their relationship. Their program includes individual and group therapy, family counseling, and other forms of support.
  • 3. Innovation Recovery – Innovation Recovery of Southern California is a rehab center that offers a couples addiction treatment program that is focused on helping couples overcome addiction and learn how to support each other in recovery. Their program includes individual and group therapy, family counseling, and other forms of support.

The Benefits of Couples Addiction Treatment

There are several benefits to choosing couples addiction treatment over traditional rehab programs. Here are a few:

  • 1. Supportive Environment – Couples rehab centers offer a safe and supportive environment for couples to work on their recovery together. This can be especially helpful for couples who may be hesitant to seek treatment on their own.
  • 2. Tailored Treatment Programs – Couples rehab centers offer specialized treatment programs that are tailored to the unique needs of couples. This can include couples therapy, family counseling, and other forms of support that are designed to help couples rebuild their relationship and overcome addiction.
  • 3. Improved Communication – Couples addiction treatment can help improve communication between partners, which is essential for rebuilding a healthy relationship. By working on communication skills, couples can learn how to support each other in recovery and avoid relapse.
  • 4. Higher Success Rates – Couples addiction treatment has been shown to have higher success rates than traditional rehab programs. This is because couples are able to support each other in recovery and hold each other accountable.

Conclusion

If you’re struggling with addiction as a couple, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Couples addiction treatment can be a great option for couples who want to overcome addiction together and rebuild their relationship. In Anaheim, California, there are several rehab centers that offer specialized treatment for couples struggling with addiction. By choosing a couples rehab center, you can get the support and guidance you need to overcome addiction and build a healthier, happier relationship.

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How Couples Rehab Helps Overcome Addiction

Overcome Addiction With Couples Rehab

Addiction can take a serious toll on a person’s life and those around them, especially their significant other. However, addiction is not something that only one person experiences; it affects both parties involved. That’s why couples rehab is a valuable resource for couples struggling with addiction. In this article, we will explore the benefits of couples rehab and how it can help overcome addiction.

What is Couples Rehab?

Couples rehab is a specialized form of addiction treatment that involves both partners in the recovery process. It is designed to provide a supportive and healing environment where couples can work together to overcome addiction. Couples rehab typically includes individual and couples therapy, support groups, and specialized programs tailored to the unique needs of each couple.

How Does Couples Rehab Work?

Couples rehab programs typically begin with an assessment to determine the severity of addiction and the specific needs of each partner. From there, a treatment plan is created that may include individual therapy, couples therapy, and group therapy. Some couples rehab programs may also offer holistic therapies such as meditation, yoga, and acupuncture.

The Benefits of Couples Rehab

Couples rehab offers many benefits to those struggling with addiction. Here are just a few:

1. Support

One of the main benefits of couples rehab is the support it provides. Couples can lean on each other for support and encouragement throughout the recovery process. This can help reduce feelings of isolation and increase motivation to stay sober.

2. Communication

Addiction can strain communication between partners. Couples rehab can help couples improve their communication skills and learn to work together to overcome challenges. This can not only benefit the recovery process but also improve the relationship overall.

3. Accountability

In couples rehab, both partners are accountable for each other’s recovery. This can help reduce the likelihood of relapse and encourage both partners to stay committed to sobriety.

4. Understanding

Couples rehab allows partners to understand each other’s struggles and experiences with addiction. This can help reduce feelings of blame and increase empathy and understanding between partners.

Is Couples Rehab Right for You?

Couples rehab is not right for everyone, but it can be a valuable resource for those struggling with addiction in a relationship. If you and your partner are both committed to sobriety and willing to work together to overcome addiction, couples rehab may be a good fit for you.

What to Expect in Couples Rehab

Couples rehab programs vary, but here are some common things to expect:

  • Assessment and treatment planning
  • Individual and couples therapy
  • Support groups
  • Holistic therapies (depending on the program)
  • Aftercare planning

Conclusion

Addiction can take a toll on a relationship, but couples rehab can help. With support, communication, accountability, and understanding, couples can work together to overcome addiction and strengthen their relationship. If you and your partner are struggling with addiction, couples rehab may be the right choice for you.

FAQs

Q1. What is the success rate of couples rehab?

A1. Success rates for couples rehab vary depending on the program and the severity of addiction. However, studies have shown that couples rehab can be highly effective in helping couples overcome addiction and improve their relationship.

Q2. Can you attend couples rehab if only one partner has an addiction?

A2. Some couples rehab programs may allow one partner to attend if the other partner is supportive of their recovery. However, it is generally recommended that both partners attend to receive the full benefits of couples rehab.

Q3. How long does couples rehab last?

A3. The length of couples rehab varies depending on the program and the needs of each couple. Some programs may last a few weeks, while others may last several months.

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Drug Rehab for Fentanyl

Drug Rehab for Fentanyl

Fentanyl Drug Rehabs

Drug addiction is a major problem worldwide, and one of the most dangerous drugs out there is fentanyl. It’s a synthetic opioid that’s often used medically to manage pain. However, it’s also become a popular recreational drug due to its potency and easy availability. Unfortunately, fentanyl abuse can quickly lead to addiction and overdose, which is why it’s essential to seek professional help from drug rehab centers.

At our Couples Rehab and private drug rehab center partners, we understand the challenges of overcoming fentanyl addiction. Our experienced and compassionate team of professionals is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to achieve lasting recovery. If you or your partner is stuggling with substance abuse contact our addiction helpline now.

The Dangers of Fentanyl Addiction

Fentanyl is a potent opioid that’s about 50-100 times more potent than morphine. Even a small amount of fentanyl can be deadly, which is why it’s become a leading cause of overdose deaths in recent years. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that more than 36,000 people died from overdoses involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl in 2019 alone.

Fentanyl addiction can also cause a wide range of physical and psychological problems, including:

  • Respiratory depression
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Seizures
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Insomnia
  • Heart palpitations

The longer someone uses fentanyl, the more likely they are to develop a tolerance to the drug, which means they need higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can quickly lead to addiction, as individuals begin to prioritize obtaining and using fentanyl over all other aspects of their life.

How Our Drug Rehab Partners Can Help

At our drug rehab center, we offer a comprehensive approach to fentanyl addiction treatment that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease. We provide a range of evidence-based therapies and treatments that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Rehab programs include:

  • Medical detoxification: This is the first step in the recovery process and involves removing fentanyl from the body safely and comfortably under the supervision of medical professionals.
  • Inpatient treatment: Our residential program provides 24/7 care and support in a safe and structured environment.
  • Outpatient treatment: Our outpatient programs are designed for those who require more flexibility and can continue to receive treatment while living at home.
  • Individual and group therapy: We offer a range of therapy options, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and motivational interviewing, among others.
  • Holistic therapies: We provide a range of holistic therapies, such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy, to help individuals heal on a physical, mental, and emotional level.

Couples Rehab’s goal is to help individuals achieve lasting recovery from fentanyl addiction and develop the tools they need to maintain sobriety long-term. We also provide aftercare services and ongoing support to help individuals transition back into their everyday lives.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl addiction, don’t wait to get help. Contact Couples Rehab today to learn more about our drug rehab center and how we can help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery from addiction.

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Heroin Epidemic in America

opiates in america

by Danica Barnett

When heroin gained notoriety in the 1960s, the typical image of a “junkie” was someone who lived in a big city. Unlike other substances, the drug wasn’t thought of as a drug that impacted the average American. However, as heroin use began to spread, heroin has become a big issue in suburban and rural areas, as well as within cities.

Many people think that the heroin epidemic began with an increase in opioid prescriptions like Oxycodone in the 1990s, where doctors would prescribe opioid painkillers to treat anything from dental pain to post-surgery pain. Like heroin, prescription painkillers are highly addictive and those that take them have a high risk of developing a physical dependence on them. As prescriptions increased, people began using opioid painkillers with or without a prescription, which led to the DEA making it harder to obtain prescriptions for opioid painkillers and harder for users to crush pills to snort or inject.

Opioid painkillers give users a high that is similar to heroin, which is why opioid painkiller users began to turn to heroin, which can be cheaper and easier to obtain. Heroin can also be easier to use. Unlike prescription opioids, heroin is a fine powder that is easy for users to snort or inject.

Heroin addiction has become a major problem in the United States, which is currently in the middle of an opioid epidemic. Let’s take a look at what heroin is, signs and symptoms of heroin use, and how the opioid epidemic is affecting America.

What is heroin?
Heroin is a member of the opiate family, which means it is derived from the opium poppy plant, that was invented in 1874. Heroin was created from morphine in the hopes that it would be less addictive and used in cough medicines, to reduce pain during labor, and during surgery. However, when it was found to be just as addictive as opium and morphine, heroin was banned under the Heroin Act of 1924.

Heroin can appear several different forms–a white or brown powder and a solid sticky substance, known as black tar or sticky tar. The color of the substance denotes the purity of the heroin–white powder has the highest levels of purity. Typically, the appearance of heroin can vary by geographic location. White or off-white heroin is most common in the eastern United States. Brown powder and black tar heroin is most commonly sold in the western United States.

Pure heroin is difficult to find on the market because most dealers use other substances to cut the heroin, which allows them to sell more heroin to make a higher profit. However, adding other substances can make heroin more dangerous. Typically, heroin is cut with the following substances:

• Baking soda
• Caffeine
• Fentanyl
• Flour
• Laundry detergent
• Sugar
• Talcum powder
• Rat poison

Heroin can be cut with other drugs, like fentanyl, that make the drug more potent and increases the risk of overdose. However, they can also be cut with substances that appear to be harmless. However, some substances, like caffeine, can mask the symptoms of overdose.

Heroin is known by several street names: dope, horse, junk, and smack. Although there are several ways to ingest heroin, it it typically smoked, snorted, or injected. Heroin can be injected directly into the vein, subdermally (under the skin), or intramuscularly (into the muscle).

Heroin is a schedule I substance, which means it as a high potential for dependence and addiction, and is illegal in the United States.

What are the signs of heroin use?
There are several behavioral and physical signs that someone may be abusing heroin. Behavioral signs of heroin abuse include:

• Loss of appetite
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Weight loss
• Changes in mood
• Intentionally hurting themselves or faking pain to receive painkiller prescriptions
• Avoiding loved ones
• Forgetting responsibilities and commitments
• Becoming violent
• Lying about their behavior

Heroin use can quickly cause a physical and psychological dependence. Physical signs of heroin abuse include:

• Dry mouth
• Flushed skin
• Decreased cognitive function
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unconsciousness
• Sweating
• Constipation
• Constructed pupils
• Lightheadedness
• Euphoria
• Lack of coordination
• Pain suppression
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Hives or rash
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures

What are the long-term effects of heroin use?
Depending on how it is ingested, heroin can have several long-term effects, including:
• Dependence
• Addiction
• Depression
• Antisocial personality disorder
• Abscesses or boils
• Infection of the heart lining or valves
• Collapsed veins
• Damage to the tissues in the nose or perforation of the septum
• Stomach cramping and constipation
• Sexual dysfunction in men
• Irregular menstrual cycles in women
• Pnuemonia
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C
• Bacterial infections
• Arthritis

Can you overdose on heroin?
Large amounts of heroin can drastically slow down the heart rate and breathing, making it impossible to revive someone without medical help. Nalaxone is an opioid receptor antagonist that is commonly used to revive someone that has overdosed. Thousands of heroin overdoses are reported each year, which has led to an increased use of Nalaxone by emergency medical personnel.

It is easy to overdose on opiates and opioids, especially heroin. Potency can vary greatly between batches, which means the amount required to overdose can also vary.

Heroin and co-occurring drug use
Nearly all heroin users use other drugs, with the majority of heroin users using three or more additional drugs.
What is the heroin withdrawal timeline?

Heroin is a fast-acting drug, which means it is typically completely out of the body 5-7 days after use. While heroin detox varies based on the individual and their heroin use, most heroin users have a withdrawal experience similar to the heroin withdrawal timeline. Heroin withdrawal begins up to four hours after the last dose and typically continues for up to a week. Heavy or frequent heroin users may experience withdrawal symptoms for up to four weeks after their last dose.

In the first phase of heroin withdrawal, which can last between 1-3 days after last use, users typically experience the following symptoms:
• Headaches
• Increased aggression
• Irritability
• Muscle pain
• Sweating
• Stomach pain
• Anxiety
• Loss of appetite
• Insomnia
• Panic attacks

In the second phase of heroin withdrawal, which can last between 3-5 days after last use, users typically experience the following symptoms:
• Stomach cramps
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Shivers

Heroin withdrawal can be uncomfortable, but it is very rare for heroin withdrawal to result in death. However, there are several medications that can assist in lessening heroin withdrawal symptoms.

Heroin and the opioid epidemic
Heroin use is growing at an alarming rate all across the United States and many people blame the prescription of opioid painkillers. On an average day, 580 people on the United States use heroin for the first time. Three out of four heroin users claim to have been abusing prescription opioid painkillers before they began abusing heroin. In 2015, opioid overdose deaths hit a record high of 33,000. Every day, opioid overdoses kill about 78 people.

According to researchers, heroin use is increasing among all demographics. With the increase in use comes an increase in dependence and overdose. The effects of the heroin epidemic are being felt across the country, particularly in rural communities. However, as the heroin epidemic continues to expand across the United States, lawmakers are working to increase programs to combat heroin addiction and make opioid receptor antagonists available to the public.

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