Many Americans are facing the adverse effects of having an opioid use disorder. While efforts are being made to battle the ongoing opioid pandemic, there are still some persistent and common opioid myths. These misconceptions can hinder the effectiveness of outreach and treatment efforts. It’s necessary to debunk certain myths about opioids and addiction broadly so individuals who need support can get it. There is no reason for opioid use disorder to be a stigma. Addiction, like any disease, needs professional support to heal properly. Sierra Sage Recovery Services offers a comprehensive opioid addiction treatment program that can help people heal and make a lasting recovery.
Opioid Use Disorder Myths
Opioids are effective prescription drugs used to treat chronic pain by binding themselves to specific receptors in a person’s central nervous system, decreasing feelings of pain. However, because the medication is so potent, a person can develop an opioid dependency or addiction through no fault of their own. When this medication adversely alters brain chemistry, individuals will find their ability to function normally without the drug may be hindered. Dependency is the first sign of an opioid use disorder.
Knowing and understanding the facts about opioid use disorders goes a long way in battling the condition and limiting the spread of opioid myths. However, with the available information on opioids continuously growing, differentiating fact from fiction can be challenging. Here are five common opioid use disorder myths.
Those with an Opioid Use Disorder Are Weak
Unfortunately, this is a myth that is common with every substance abuse disorder. Some people view the development of addiction as a moral failing, character flaw, or a lack of willpower. This cannot be any further from the truth—various factors, such as environment, past trauma, mental illness, and more, influence addiction. Furthermore, prolonged opioid use alters a person’s brain, affecting their behavior and ability to make decisions. This could make it difficult for them to quit.
You Can Avoid Addiction by Following the Prescription
Some believe that those who developed an opioid use disorder abused their medications. However, opioid addiction often begins with innocent intentions. Many people who wouldn’t have used opioids start taking them for pain relief after an injury or medical operation and end up developing dependence and addiction. Today doctors are cautious with opioid prescriptions, often screening, monitoring, and offering guidance to those using them.
The Higher the Opioid Dose, the Better the Pain Control
Less is more. Though a person who hasn’t taken opioids before first takes a high dose would feel considerably less pain, this is not always the case. After several months, a higher dose is not more effective than lower doses. Higher doses also come with increased risks of addiction, side effects, and accidental overdose.
Only Those with a History of Addiction Develop Opioid Use Disorders
There is some truth to this. Coming from a family with a history of substance abuse can make you predisposed to developing an addiction. Also, those in recovery are more likely to develop new addictions. However, opioid use disorders are not only limited to those with a history of addiction. Even if a person doesn’t have a history of substance abuse, they can still develop an addiction and dependence on opioids.
You Can Go Through Opioid Detox on Your Own
Several factors determine your detox experience. These factors include the nature of your addiction and your body makeup. For your detox to be successful and safe, you should seek medical intervention from a hospital or rehab facility. This allows medical professionals to monitor your condition and help alleviate some of the withdrawal symptoms. Also, seeking help goes a long way in providing you with the motivation to see your recovery through.
Reach Out to Sierra Sage Recovery To Learn More
Being aware of the truth helps debunk the present opioid use disorder myths. Most of all, it allows you to confidently seek treatment either for yourself or a loved one battling opioid addiction. At Sierra Sage Recovery Services, we offer a wide range of treatment programs, such as:
- Residential treatment
- Long-term rehab program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Outpatient treatment
- Relapse prevention
- Aftercare
With Sierra Sage, you can get the tailor-made treatment that your recovery demands. Reach out to us at 833.922.2884 to learn more about opioid use disorder myths and seek treatment today.
