About Prescription Pain Medication Addiction
You may want to help them to get prescription drug treatment, and at the same time you may feel an overwhelming sense of anger because they can’t seem to stop. Perhaps you’ve urged, even begged them to go to rehab for a painkiller addiction. On the other hand, you might have been turning a blind eye in the hopes that things will get better on their own. Sadly, many people who are addicted to painkillers, and other drugs, don’t realise the extent of their addiction until something has gone wrong (i.e. loss of a relationship, health problems, overdose, etc.).
At Siam Rehab, a leading prescription painkiller rehab in Thailand, we know of families whose first reaction is to get angry and accuse their loved one of being addicted to painkillers. Often, this results in the person to become defensive and actually resist any help. It’s a psychological defence that is normal, but not necessarily useful for the situation. Part of this defensive behaviour usually comes from the fact that the person doesn’t believe they have an addiction; therefore may disagree with their loved ones accusations. Regardless of what you might think, the individual should be assessed by a qualified physician to determine whether or not they have an addiction to painkillers.
Bear in mind, some people do take painkillers as prescribed and are not addicted to them. This does not mean there is no possibility of an addiction either! Furthermore, it could be that they are dependent on them. The accepted difference between addiction and dependency is that an addiction is a continued use of a drug despite the negative consequences; whereas, a dependency occurs when the body is reliant on the drug to function. It is possible for a dependency to turn into an addiction. Therefore, if you suspect something is not right, you should be concerned.
So, if you’re thinking that something like “Someone I know is addicted to prescription drugs.”, and you’re wondering what you can do to support them and even encourage them into getting prescription drug treatment at rehab, take into consideration the following tips and advice.
How To Help Someone Who is Currently Abusing Painkillers
Remember to remain supportive and maintain positivity. Voice your concern about their use and wellbeing, but avoid using harsh criticism or judgement. Make an effort to willingly show your support, but avoid dictating the course of action you think they should take. This often leads to concerns being accepted in a more positive way.
Be sure to remain empathetic and compassionate. Think of a possible addiction just as you would a chronic disease illness. In general, telling a person what they should do does not go very far. Rather, if you empathise with them and let them know you’re on their side, you may get farther. Avoid phrases such as “you really need to…”, or “you can’t do…”. These words are often met with anger, resistance, and hostility. Instead, try phrases such as”I want you to know that I will help you with…”, or “It would make me feel better if you tried to….”.
Encourage balance and stability. Try to create a more structured environment that encourages balance of the mind and body. Predictable routines around the house can reduce stress and chaos that tend to encourage use.
Ask a doctor for an assessment. If you are unsure about whether or not someone has an addiction and would benefit from prescription drug treatment, you might consider seeking a medical professional for an assessment. If you don’t know how to do this, or have further questions, you could call a rehab for painkiller addictions, such as Siam Rehab.
Educate yourself about the possibility of an overdose. If you are concerned about a loved ones use of prescription painkillers, it may be a good idea to get Narcan. This is a medication that can counter the effects of an overdose. Depending on the country, you may be able to purchase Narcan over the counter. If not, you will need to get a prescription for the drug. In general, Narcan cannot be self administered, so make sure you learn how to use it.
Do your research about possible options for prescription painkiller drug treatment. You never know when your loved one might come to you for help. If that time ever comes, you should have a plan of action ready to go. Included in this plan should be a prescription drug rehab that will be able to accept him or her immediately. In the event your loved one is resistant for help, you might also want to consider staging an intervention. These can be effective in encouraging individuals to get treatment for an addiction to painkillers.
Help for a Prescription Painkiller Addiction is Available
If you would like to know more about Siam Rehab, and our prescription drug treatment programmes in Thailand, please contact us or call us today.
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