It is somewhat common for people to use terms like drug addiction and drug abuse interchangeably. Even drug dependence, which describes a very specific condition, is not always understood. It’s important for those using prescription drugs to know these differences, especially if your habits for using those medications have changed. At Fresh Start Recovery Center, we offer addiction treatment and education to help our clients learn more about prescription drug addiction and heal.
Dependence on Prescription Drugs
Prescription drugs for pain, anxiety and seizures can be addictive, habit-forming drugs if used outside of doctor recommendations. Dependence occurs when the brain and body become reliant on the drug to function. This occurs because of the way the drugs interact with and ultimately change the communication process between the cells of the brain. Over time, the brain recognizes the drug as a pleasurable experience and seeks it out with increasing intensity.
If you think you might be dependent on prescription medication, ask yourself the following:
- Do you feel the need to use the drug before you are supposed to?
- Do you run out of the drug before you can refill the prescription?
- When the drug is not available, do you feel physical pain, insomnia, or anxiety?
- Without the drug use, do you have intense cravings for it or think about it often?
- Are mood swings common when the drug is not available?
These are signs of drug dependence. Treatment for this condition often involves medication, counseling, and, in some cases, a detox process.
Abuse of Prescription Drugs
Drug abuse is a term used to describe a pattern of behavior. A person may be using these medications in a way that is harmful to them. That may lead to symptoms such as needing to use the drug to feel normal or hiding how much is being used. They may be using more of the drug than they should at a safe level. This may lead to some physical signs of damage.
Addiction to Prescription Drugs
Drug addiction refers to a person’s need to compulsively use a drug without regard to the recognized risks of doing so. A person with addiction typically prioritizes that drug over other people or responsibilities. They realize there is danger or risk in using it, but they feel they need to use it. Addiction leads to out-of-control behavior. The decisions a person is making are not necessarily good for them but often are related to their need to use.
Are You Struggling with Substance Use Issues?
If you feel compelled to use drugs or find it painful not to use them, it may be time to talk to your doctor about addiction treatment. The type of therapy you need is dependent on the level and severity of your condition. For that reason, it is best to have a formal diagnosis and treatment plan created for you. Any of these three conditions warrant professional help.
At Fresh Start Recovery Center, we offer treatment for all three conditions. We do this through a wide range of treatment programs such as:
- Men’s rehab center
- Women’s rehab center
- Intensive outpatient program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Outpatient treatment program
With the use of medication as well as psychotherapy, it is possible to reclaim your health and start working towards building a healthy future. Our goal is to ensure you have the tools to achieve this and to maintain it long-term.
Explore Your Treatment Options at Fresh Start Recovery Center
You can change the future. If you are struggling with dependence and addiction to prescription drugs, reach out to us. Let Fresh Start Recovery Center provide you with the tools you need to thrive again. Call 833.625.0398 or connect with us online to learn how.
