Prescription drug addiction is extremely common. Typically, those who become addicted to prescription medications do not intend to do so. A person may begin taking medications for an entirely innocent reason such as after undergoing surgery or to treat pain related to an injury. Because of the addictive potential of some medications, especially prescription opiates, once a prescription runs out and a doctor refuses to provide additional refills, a person may have already developed a psychological or physical dependency. This can result in an individual turning to risky behaviors to obtain drugs in order to maintain their habit. Fresh Start Recovery Center knows how to help those who have developed prescription drug addictions. Reach out to us today at 833.625.0398 to speak with a trained representative about our prescription drug addiction recovery program and our personalized treatment plans.
Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction
Those who have developed an addiction to prescription opioids may show some of the following signs and symptoms:
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Excessive fatigue
- Poor coordination
- Increased privacy
- Lack of interest in activities
- Work problems
- Relationship issues
- Social isolation
A person who has developed an addiction to prescription anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines (“benzos”) or sedatives may show some of the following signs and symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Memory problems
- Poor concentration
- Confusion
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in mood
- Sleep issues
- Seizures
Finally, those who have developed an addiction to prescription stimulants such as ADHD medications may show some of the following signs and symptoms:
- Being awake at odd hours
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Aggression
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
- Insomnia
- Shakiness or tremors
- Hallucinations
Common Risk Factors Associated with Prescription Drug Abuse
There are many risk factors associated with all varieties of substance abuse and the potential for addiction. Prescription drugs are often considered “gateway drugs” which is partly due to their availability and easy access. Other common risk factors can include:
- Smoking
- History of addiction
- Family history of substance abuse problems
- Mental health issues
- Environmental issues
- Peer influence
- Lack of education about risk factors associated with prescription drugs
Because prescription medications are considered a “gateway drug” they are believed to have risks and consequences that may not be obvious or expected for someone who believes they are simply experimenting with drugs.
Misuse and abuse of prescription drugs can lead individuals to make poor decisions and engage in risky behaviors. It can also be a gateway to the use of harder drugs. Once a prescription is no longer available, someone may resort to stealing drugs or putting themselves in dangerous situations to obtain illegal drugs. Prescription drug abuse is associated with poor work performance and lack of engagement with family and home life.
Contact Fresh Start Today to Break the Habit
If you or someone you care about is struggling with prescription drug addiction, it may be time to consider the benefits of a prescription drug rehab program. Fresh Start offers a range of programs and services, including:
- Gender-specific rehab center
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Outpatient treatment (OT)
- Aftercare services
- Relapse prevention
Fresh Start offers a range of mental health services to ensure clients are treated for co-occurring mental health disorders. Our therapy services include but are not limited to:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
Reach out to us today at 833.625.0398 to speak with a trained representative about the benefits of our prescription drug treatment program. Our clients work with a team of expert medical professionals to develop personalized treatment plans that provide care designed for individual life circumstances. We look forward to helping you on the path to lasting recovery.
