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opioid detox

When pursuing opioid addiction treatment, clients require a structured recovery program, allowing them to replace their dependence on controlled substances with healthier coping mechanisms. Although opioid addiction treatment is rarely dangerous or life-threatening, withdrawal can be terrifying, even impossible to endure alone.

During opioid detox, a person’s body flushes out opioids. This process can be highly uncomfortable and painful as the body goes through withdrawal symptoms. An opioid detox center provides medical assistance, support, and monitoring to ensure the safety and comfort of clients during this challenging process. It also offers resources and therapy to help clients cope with the psychological aspects of detox and prepare them for ongoing treatment.

Gulf Breeze Recovery understands the complexity of addiction and the importance of individualized treatment plans. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to helping you achieve lasting recovery and fulfilling life free from opioids. With our evidence-based treatments, including psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and experiential therapies like yoga and equine-assisted therapy, we can help you address the underlying causes of your addiction and develop healthy coping skills to maintain sobriety.

Contact our team at 833.551.2304 to learn more about our detox treatment program and how we can support you through opioid detox.

What Are Opioids and How Do They Work?

Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and producing feelings of pleasure and relaxation. However, opioids also have side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and sedation, which can lead to dependence and addiction.

Long-term opioid use can also cause changes in the brain’s reward system and dopamine production, making it difficult for individuals to experience pleasure without the drug. This can result in cravings and compulsive drug-seeking behavior, leading to a vicious cycle of addiction. Additionally, opioids can suppress respiratory function, potentially causing a fatal overdose if taken in high doses.

What Are the Symptoms of Opioid Abuse?

If you experience physical and psychological symptoms as a result of prolonged or excessive opioid use, you may have developed a dependency. These symptoms may include but are not limited to increased tolerance, persistent cravings, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It is essential to seek professional help if you suspect that you or someone you know may be struggling with opioid dependency.

The following are common signs of an addiction to opioids:

  • Perceived inability to function without the opioid or prescription drug in question
  • Symptoms of illness that seem relieved with increasing dosages of opioids
  • Changes in sleep habits
  • Unstable moods
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Lowered motivation
  • Reduced attention to personal hygiene
  • Digestive ailments, including loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or cramping
  • Weight loss
  • Resorting to drastic measures, such as stealing or other illegal activity, to procure more opioids or medication
  • Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school

The longer the problem progresses, the greater the risk of overdose and health complications, including accidental death. If you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms, it is crucial to seek professional help and begin the process of opioid addiction treatment. Remember, recovery from opioid addiction is possible with the proper support and resources.

The Rise of Opioid Overdoses in the U.S. Given the prevalence of opioid use disor-der in the U.S., it is crucial to comprehend the indications and effects of opioid abuse on long-term health. Equally important is access to high-quality treatment and opioid detox programs that offer evidence-based therapies, empowering individuals to achieve and maintain sobriety. Sources National Academy of Medicine – "National Academy of Medicine Action Collaborative on Combatting Substance Use and Opioid Crises" CDC – "Opioids: Data Overview" Each day, hundreds of Americans lose their lives to drug-related over-doses, causing immense devastation to families and communities. The opioid crisis remains an enduring challenge, and overdose rates have risen dramatically: Since 1999, over one million lives have been lost due to drug overdoses, with opioids being involved in over 75% of overdose deaths in 2021. The number of opioid-related overdose deaths in 2021 was 10 times higher than in 1999. This includes prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl. In 2021 alone, opioid overdoses claimed the lives of more than 80,000 individuals, and synthetic opioids were responsible for nearly 88% of these fatalities.

What Are the Side Effects of Opioid Withdrawal?

Opioid and prescription drug detox may involve experiencing various symptoms, some mild and some severe. In addition, because many individuals began their cycle of opioid abuse as a means to manage co-occurring physical or emotional pain, treatment may require a temporary re-emergence of other undesirable sensations. The good news is that the professional medical team at an opioid detox center can help people safely and comfortably manage the opioid detox process, reducing the risk of relapse or complications.

Some common side effects of opioid withdrawal may include:

  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Muscle aches
  • Cramping
  • Agitation
  • Irritability

It is essential to remember that everyone’s experience with opioid withdrawal is unique, and the severity of symptoms may vary based on factors such as the duration and amount of opioid use. An opioid detox program is crucial during this stage of recovery.

Additional Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal

Patients undergoing opioid or prescription drug withdrawal may expect the following:

  • Mood swings, from anxiety and agitation to depression and despair
  • Increased heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure
  • Alternating profuse sweating and chills
  • Sleep problems
  • Uncontrolled muscle spasms or twitching
  • Digestive ailments, including stomach cramps, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and vomiting
  • General flu-like symptoms, such as aches, pains, and runny nose

While these symptoms can be distressing, they are temporary. With proper medical supervision and support from a comprehensive treatment program, clients can safely manage the withdrawal process and begin their journey toward recovery. It is important to remember that everyone’s experience with opioid withdrawal may differ, and it is crucial to have a personalized treatment plan.

What Is It Like to Participate in an Opioid Detox Program?

Participating in a prescription drug detox program can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. During this process, clients may experience intense physical withdrawal symptoms as their body adjusts to functioning without opioids. At the same time, they may also confront difficult emotions and memories that have been suppressed by substance abuse.

However, through evidence-based treatments and compassionate care, clients can expect to receive personalized support and encouragement. The goal is to help individuals navigate this challenging process with compassion, understanding, and guidance toward lasting recovery. With the support of experienced staff and comprehensive treatment programs, you can overcome opioid addiction and create a fulfilling life free from drugs.

“I have been to many rehabs. Gulfbreeze recovery is by far the best one I have ever been to. The staff really cares and they take a different approach teaching you the three principles which have honestly changed my life! They have great aftercare options and amazing staff that truly cares. They teach you how to have fun sober and they take you on various outings. One was a dolphin cruise it was absolutely an amazing experience. They have graduates return that have had success to share their stories and encourage current guests. It’s a great program- give it a shot !”

– Alexandria

The Four Stages of Recovery

Opioid and prescription drug recovery takes place over a series of four stages:

  1. When the decision to pursue treatment has been made, some clients experience increased cravings in anticipation of the pending withdrawal.
  2. At the onset of treatment, sometimes even within the first few hours, more acute physical withdrawal symptoms will emerge. At this point, cravings may become highly intense, almost unbearable.
  3. After several days, symptoms will present at peak intensity, as will the desire for opioids or prescription drugs. At this time, medical providers may strategically use pharmaceutical supports such as methadone or clonidine to help patients manage physical discomfort. Although all individuals differ, this stage typically lasts up to three weeks.
  4. After immediate withdrawal symptoms subside, clients may continue to battle with cognitive and psychological symptoms such as moodiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. These may endure for six months to two years following treatment.

To be successful in this process, clients require a safe environment in which their overall health and wellness are maximized, including a combination of physical and cognitive therapies, nutritional guidance, and abundant rest. They must also be supervised 24/7 during the more intense periods of withdrawal.

In addition, because symptoms may last long after a residential program is completed, clients must learn healthy coping mechanisms to avoid future relapse. Clients also benefit from outpatient programs, aftercare, and other supports to successfully transition back to their everyday lives.

With the proper support and resources, clients can overcome opioid addiction and discover a new way of living without dependence on controlled substances. So, it is essential to find a comprehensive treatment program that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction for long-term recovery success.

Contact Gulf Breeze Recovery’s Opioid Detox Center in Florida Today

Since symptoms and timetables vary, individuals seeking recovery require a personalized approach, accommodating their needs. Gulf Breeze Recovery is ready to start developing a customized treatment plan. We can help you learn more about our unique, holistic approach to opioid and prescription drug detox. Our expert staff will guide you through the entire process and support your journey toward lasting recovery.

Remember, it is never too late to seek help and start your path toward healing and wellness. You deserve a life without the burden of opioid addiction, and we are here to help you achieve it. Do not wait any longer to take the first steps toward a healthier, happier life free from opioid addiction. Enroll in our opioid detox center in Florida by calling 833.551.2304 or completing our online form.