For those who may be vulnerable to addiction, these drugs can sometimes create a worrisome dependency. At 12 SouthRecovery, we fully realize the urgency of this challenge and understand how important it is to address the root causes behind prescription drug abuse.
Understanding Prescription Drug Abuse and Its Impact
Prescription drug abuse involves the use of drugs in ways that are other than intended by the prescribing physician. This can include using doses higher than those prescribed, using the medications for pleasurable purposes, obtaining extra quantities through bogus prescriptions, or any activities aimed at forging prescriptions. Some of the most commonly misused prescription medications include:
- Opioids (for pain).
- Benzodiazepines (for anxiety and sleep disorders).
- Stimulants (often prescribed for ADHD).
Medications are legally available and prescribed by doctors, which can create a misleading sense of safety. This, along with their easy accessibility, has played a significant role in increasing the rates of misuse and addiction.
Prescription drug abuse has far-reaching results. The emotional toll on the family is immense, as well as the economic burden on the community and stress on the healthcare system. Prescription drug abuse treatment costs the healthcare system a lot, including other expenses like hospitalization, emergency department visits, and rehabilitation programs. These medicines bring severe physical and mental health effects on the person addicted, which require particular treatment to ensure sustainable recovery.
Why is Prescription Drug Abuse Increasing?
Several factors give rise to prescription drug abuse: first, the easy access to prescription medications, mainly since more and more prescription drugs using opioids and benzodiazepines have arisen. Though necessary, their excessive amount of prescriptions over and over creates an oversupply that is misused.
Also, the use of prescriptions has become so common that it’s hard to tell when it’s being used appropriately or when it leads to dependency. Social media has also made people more aware of such drugs and even glamorizes their misuse, especially among the youth.
Finally, issues with mental health, such as anxiety and depression, are contributing factors to this problem, as individuals might resort to prescription drugs for coping or escapism, thus entering a dangerous cycle of self-medication and possible addiction.
The Link Between Prescription Drug Abuse and Mental Health
Mental health challenges are often intertwined with prescription drug abuse. People struggling with conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD may rely on medications like opioids or benzodiazepines to numb their symptoms temporarily. However, these drugs do not address the root causes of mental health issues, leading users to seek more frequent or higher doses to achieve the same relief.
It’s entirely understandable to seek medication when dealing with emotional struggles. I know from experience that sometimes it can feel like a safety net you can’t easily let go of. When it becomes difficult to navigate daily life without it, it can unintentionally find its way into our routines, making it a little trickier to break free. As time goes on, some may discover they need higher doses to feel the same effects, which can increase the chances of physical dependence and make it harder to step back from those medications.
The influence on mental health can unfold in different ways. While some may find relief, prescription drug misuse can unintentionally intensify existing mental health struggles. Using drugs can lead to new problems like anxiety, paranoia, and mood swings. When drug use and mental health issues are mixed, getting better can feel challenging. But it’s important to know that reaching out for professional help can make a difference.
The Role of Technology and Social Media
The digital age has also played a role in the rise of prescription drug abuse. Social media, with its vast reach and influence, has made information about drugs more accessible. On some platforms, content glamorizing or normalizing prescription drug misuse is easily found, shaping perceptions and behaviors, especially among young people. Online pharmacies and “dark web” marketplaces have also made it easier for individuals to obtain these drugs without a prescription, bypassing traditional safeguards.
The normalization of drug misuse on social media creates an environment where it becomes socially acceptable and even encouraged. For individuals at risk, these portrayals can make prescription drug abuse seem like a viable, “safe” option, ignoring the significant dangers involved.
The Cycle of Prescription Drug Addiction
Prescription drug addiction often follows a predictable cycle. It begins with a legitimate need or prescription, often for pain management, anxiety, or concentration. Over time, users may find that the medication provides a sense of relief or euphoria, leading them to increase doses or use it more frequently than prescribed. As tolerance builds, dependency forms, leading individuals to take even more to achieve the desired effects.
Once addiction takes hold, users may struggle to stop even as negative consequences appear. Physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and psychological cravings make quitting difficult without professional help. This cycle can lead to significant disruptions in daily life, from impaired work performance to strained relationships and financial issues.
How 12 South Recovery Can Help
Our programs address the physical and mental sides of addiction by offering several therapies and support that bestow recuperation effectively.
We use our knowledge of what makes every person different to devise an individualized treatment plan that includes one-to-one sessions, group talks, and family involvement. One of the most important ways we do this is by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, better known as CBT. It teaches a person how to recognize negative thoughts that lead to addiction.
EMDR treats people with trauma. It resolves past issues that might be the root of the addiction and will make it easier to recover.
We also incorporate holistic therapies such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy. Such practices improve the mind-body connection and introduce new, healthy ways of managing stress, expressing feelings, and maintaining sobriety for longer.
Our aftercare/alumni program extends beyond treatment into a supportive community of peers. Regular meetings, activities, and check-ins help to foster motivation and accountability in maintaining progress as one begins to make one’s way back into daily life.
Get in Touch for More Details
At 12 South Recovery, we are committed to helping individuals break free from prescription drug addiction and regain control of their lives. If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug misuse, reach out to our dedicated team. Our comprehensive treatment programs, compassionate staff, and supportive community are here to guide you toward a healthier, drug-free future.
