How to Recognize and Get Help for Opioid Addiction

One of the most important factors in successfully treating narcotic drug addictions is to catch them early before they have time to take over the victims’ lives. For this, it is necessary to be able to detect early signs of various narcotic drug addictions. Take opioid addiction for example. Opioids are mostly artificially created chemical compounds that mimic many of the effects of opium on the human body. Common opioids include morphine, fentanyl, heroin and oxycodone. Most people get hooked on the euphoric feeling produced by these compounds as well as their ability to block pain and produce a relaxed feeling, alleviating all anxieties. However, as the victims continue to use these substances, they quickly develop tolerance, requiring greater and greater amounts of the drug to get the same ‘high’ as in their initial days. The attraction of the drug soon turns to craving and finally dependence on the substances and an addict is born. A person who has fallen victim to an opioid addiction soon reveals distinct personality changes. They become anxious and demonstrate sudden mood swings. Many tend to isolate themselves out of an increasing paranoia, as well as to conceal their affliction from friends and family. Physically, they suffer from a loss of appetite and the accompanying weight loss as well as experiencing nausea, headaches and hallucinations whenever the ‘high’ of the drug passes. Many addicts have red, glazed eyes and runny noses since the harsh chemicals affect the delicate balance of these systems. They also tend to have a persistent cough after a while. If a friend or family member exhibits such symptoms then it is a good idea to have a gentle talk with them; especially if they also start to show a loss of interest in grooming and personal hygiene and/or start to falter in their work. It is important to treat these symptoms as what they are: a subconscious cry for help. Take special care not to seem confrontational when you talk with them. If it does seem that they are indeed suffering from narcotic drug additions, encourage them to take professional help. Remember, it has to be their choice if the recovery program is to be successful. Once you have their tacit agreement, contact a de-addiction center. Your family doctor or a psychiatrist should be able to suggest the best one for your needs.