Break Free from Narcotics Addiction: Treatment and Recovery Options 

Substance use disorder is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders affecting many people across the world. Besides the various complications that are reported with interpersonal relationships, dissatisfaction in these relationships is an index of psychological and physiological disorders.  

There are various categories of addictions, including the one that involves different types of substances, which include the normal use substances and the prohibited ones.  

At Cadabam’s, we see the effects of narcotics addiction every day. The damage narcotics cause inspires us to share this struggle. In this blog, we'll explore narcotics abuse, its consequences, the toll on physical and mental health, and the path to recovery. 

What are Narcotics?  

Some of the narcotics can be from prescriptions, and some are unlawful as well, like Opioids. These are naturally occurring and are found in opium poppy plants, which are famous for their anesthetic property. Opioids include some of these drugs, including morphine, oxycodone, heroin, fentanyl, among others, and opiates.  

Opium has been effective in the management of pain but again has the disadvantage of producing addiction and thus is controlled in all countries.  

Effects of Narcotics Addiction on the Body  

Here are the several effects of narcotics on the human body. These effects are primarily seen through their association with opioid receptors in the head that are involved with pain, reward, as well as drug dependency. Narcotics bind to these receptors when taken, producing short-term and long-term changes.  

Short-Term Effects of Narcotics Addiction  

Short-term effects of narcotics addiction on mental health include:  

• Euphoria  

• Drowsiness  

• Confusion  

Physical effects of narcotics addiction that last over a short period include:  

• Slowed breathing  

• Constipation  

• Nausea  

• Constricted pupils  

• Impaired coordination and judgment  

Long-Term Effects of Narcotics Addiction  

Narcotics cause multiple complications when used in the long term; these complications depend on how narcotics are taken, for instance, through injecting, inhaling, or through the mouth. The various effects of narcotics addiction that a narcotic user is likely to experience are respiratory depression, tolerance, physical dependence, and effects on the brain in long-term use.  

Risks of Narcotics Use  

Thus, the devastating impact involving narcotics includes the physical and mental suffering attributed to the strong influence of the said narcotics. Admittedly, narcotics have curative qualities that are useful to the body, but knowing the negative impacts they possibly have on one's body is equally important in determining the appropriate use of the product.  

Physical Risks  

Narcotics physically and habitually incur severe respiratory problems that may result in respiratory failure. More severe problems relate to heavy long-term consumption, which can lead to ulcers, hormonal disorders, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney failure.  

Mental and Emotional Risks  

In the mental aspect, besides using opioids for pain relief, some individuals might have increased anxiety, paranoia, or hallucinations. Long-term consumption, including when taken during the teenage years, is associated with cognitive deficits, memory loss, and a heightened risk of developing chronic mental health issues like depression and anxiety. 

How Narcotics Addiction Develops  

Opioid use disorder usually occurs when an individual's brain becomes dependent on the drug to provide pleasure or to prevent moments of discomfort. They chemically elicit a release of dopamine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that is associated with reward, motivation, and pleasure.  

With time and constant use of narcotics, the brain becomes dependent on the drug to release these high levels of dopamine as it loses the ability to spontaneously do it.  

This dependence can push the user to take more of the substance to generate the same level of stimulation, a phenomenon known as addiction.  

Also, once the body is used to getting narcotics, then various symptoms such as irritation, inability to sleep, and loss of appetite may be felt when use is cut down or halted, thus entrenching the cycle of addiction even more.  

How is Narcotics Addiction Diagnosed  

Assessment of narcotics dependence mostly reverts to a professional or a specialist in the addiction field. Diagnosis is made based on observations of behaviour and experiences as reported by the respective clients.  

Such markers include an inability to stop taking narcotics even when one wants to, spending a lot of time looking for narcotics or using them, and even using them despite negative repercussions in one's personal or work life.  

This is because they manifest themselves physically through such factors as increased tolerance to the stimulus and withdrawal symptoms because of abstaining from the substance. There is currently no specific test that conclusively identifies narcotics addiction, and multiple assessments, behavioural, physical, and mental testing offer a thorough assessment of the condition.  

Narcotics addiction early identification and intervention are paramount in enhancing the assessment and rehabilitation through comprehensive narcotics addiction treatment focused on substance use and risk factors.  

When to Seek Help for Narcotics Addiction?  

The identification of the early signs of narcotics addiction is crucial in improving the recovery process.  

One should consider seeking help if he or she identifies that the drug use is increasing in quantity and frequency and the person cannot function adequately during normal activities without the drug. Other warning signs include behavioral changes associated with failing to meet obligatory commitments, avoiding office or social activities, and continued substance use despite adverse effects on a user's health or interaction with others.  

Intense hunger or onset of such withdrawal signs as mood swings, nervousness, or changes in appetite may indicate the need for a dose as well. 

In addition, if earlier efforts to minimize or stop consumption have been unsuccessful or if narcotics use starts to negatively affect one's well-being, it is crucial to seek help.  

Treatment Options for Narcotics Addiction  

A comprehensive approach is necessary for treating narcotics addiction, which addresses both physical withdrawal symptoms and psychological dependence. Here are some key narcotics addiction treatment options:  

Detoxification  

Detox or detoxification is often the first stage of many narcotics addiction treatment programs, designed to rid the body of narcotics and deal with withdrawal. 

Some of the withdrawal symptoms that might be observed when the body lacks narcotics include mood swings, irritability, sleeplessness, and changes in appetite. In a controlled setting, these symptoms are managed by medical professionals so that the safety and well-being of the patient are not compromised.  

The withdrawal from narcotics can be rigorous, but it must be done under supervision because the psychological symptoms can be tough.  

Therapy and Counseling  

Psychological intervention, known as therapy and counseling, is central to the treatment of narcotics addiction. CBT is an effective approach that can help people learn new behaviors and thought processes to avoid using narcotics.  

In therapy, patients are taught the signs of relapse, strategies for avoiding relapse, and ways of building up their resistance to relapse. This form of therapy in most rehabilitation centers involves several patients where they can learn from each other and share experiences.  

Couples and family therapy are also vital in fixing damaged relationships resulting from substance use and ensuring a healthy home environment for the recovery process. Together, these therapeutic approaches help to navigate the intricacies of narcotics dependency and help a person gain sustained recovery.  

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)  

MAT is a very helpful narcotics addiction treatment program, because it involves the usage of a medication to treat the disease. Some drugs can be prescribed to help manage withdrawal effects or to lessen the urge to gamble. For example, drugs such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are used to treat reliance on opioids.  

These medications assist in regulating chemical imbalances in the brain, reducing the 'high' experienced by opioid users, and specifically targeting and reducing physical withdrawal symptoms. However, it is crucial for individuals to consult with their physicians to figure out how to approach the use of medications most effectively.  

Rehabilitation  

Inpatient and outpatient services encompass narcotics addiction treatment recovery programs that allow efficiency and proper structures to be established. Outpatient rehab is less intensive than inpatient or residential rehab because the addict is permitted to stay in environments that may trigger their addiction.  

In contrast, outpatient rehabs let people stay at their homes and fulfill some obligations while attending treatment sessions. Both focus on education, skills development, therapy, and peer support.  

The primary decision-making criteria in deciding between inpatient and outpatient programs mainly involve the intensity of the dependency, other obligations, and own preference.  

What Type of Doctors Can Treat Narcotics Addiction?  

The rehabilitation of narcotics addiction requires a team effort of clinicians in various disciplines. Substance use disorders can be diagnosed and treated by addiction psychiatrists who can offer medical and therapeutic management.  

Psychotherapists, counsellors , and clinical psychologists can provide behavioral treatments, cognitive approaches, and counseling sessions to manage addiction roots and teach patients how to react to stressors.  

Furthermore, primary care physicians can contribute significantly to the recognition of signs of addiction and to providing referrals to narcotics addiction specialty treatment centers. While in larger treatment facilities ranging from rehabilitation facilities, addiction medicine physicians are in charge of the detoxification process besides medication-assisted treatment.  

Thus, it is crucial that people who need help can turn to doctors who have adequate knowledge of addiction medicine or therapy, which will allow the recovery process to be as effective as possible.  

What are the Effects of Narcotics Withdrawal?  

Withdrawing from narcotic use can cause several physical and psychological effects. These effects are due to the body's reactions when it is deprived of opioids after having taken opioids often enough.  

Some psychological symptoms would be agitation, nervousness, mood swings, and even low feelings. The physical symptoms may include difficulty sleeping and conversion to insomnia or disturbing dreams may occur.  

Weight loss can be experienced due to loss of appetite, which may be indicated by a reduced desire to consume foods. Other symptoms include confusion, nervousness, and even severe conditions like headaches and abdominal pain. In some cases, aggression or sweating may be more than normal because of the drugs that the patient has been using.  

Although such symptoms may be uncomfortable, they are usually transient, with the primary symptoms reaching their highest point in the first week of quitting and fading away within two weeks. It is advisable to look for help during this phase in some medical advice or support groups that may make the process of withdrawal easier.  

How Cadabams Rehabilitation Center Can Help  

Cadabam's can boast of offering services in the sphere of addiction issues for more than 30 years. Cadabam's has a panel of experts with new-age facilities and capabilities, which provide the best experience in recovery for those seeking narcotics addiction treatment. Our sophisticated deaddiction treatment programs are evidence-based and effective so that you are always on the path to recovery.  

If you are looking for a solution to your problem, then Cadabam's Anunitha's De-Addiction Centre is a good place with a team of specialists. For over 30 years, we have been assisting thousands of people to achieve a healthier and happier life. By incorporating research-based interventions and comprehensive narcotics addiction therapy techniques, we assist people in managing narcotics addiction in the best way possible. For our services, please reach out to us today. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949.