How Painkiller Addiction Starts
There are a number of different ways that painkiller addiction can begin and different reasons that some people are more prone to develop an addiction to a drug while others can safely take a painkiller for a short period without repercussions. Some have co-occurring psychological disorders that they attempt to self-medicate with painkillers. Others seek refuge in drugs and alcohol after experiencing sexual abuse or another serious traumatic event. For others, casual abuse with no other primary cause can mean that painkiller addiction develops for unknown reasons.
Painkiller Addiction May Start with Underlying Psychological Disorders
It is estimated that about 50 percent of those who are living with addiction are diagnosed with a co-occurring psychological disorder. Anything from eating disorders or anxiety issues to schizophrenia or bipolar disorder can mean that a patient seeks painkillers in order to feel better or escape from the emotional issues that define their disorder.
When this is the case, the important thing to remember is that neither disorder will see any progress improvement unless both are treated at the same time. It’s impossible to treat one and then move onto another because a relapse in the untreated disorder will always impede healing.
Painkiller Addiction May Be Triggered by Sexual Abuse or Other Trauma
Those who experience trauma like sexual abuse, attack, domestic violence or war trauma are more likely to develop an addiction to drugs like painkillers in an attempt to stamp out the memories. Anger, depression and PTSD are all common among those who experience a significant event of this nature, and drug addiction treatment should include psychological care and maintenance that addresses that event specifically. It’s not easy and it’s not a process that can be rushed, but the only way to recovery for these patients is to fully address this underlying issue that triggers them to get high.
Painkiller Addiction May Begin Accidentally
There are a number of people who are surprised by painkiller addiction. They are not living with a co-occurring disorder of any kind nor have they experienced a serious emotional trauma. Many take their prescription exactly as prescribed by their doctor after surgery or an accident in order to relieve pain. Rather than simply working through their prescription and getting off the drug without incident, however, they ultimately develop a painkiller addiction characterized by cravings as well as physical dependence.
It’s not always clear why this happens to some people and not others. One individual may have a genetic predisposition to the development of addiction or just have an addictive personality. No matter how or why painkiller addiction develops, however, the best way to handle the problem is to enroll in a painkiller rehab that can help patients learn more positive ways of dealing with cravings than abusing prescription drugs.
Fight Painkiller Addiction with Rehab at Michael’s House
At Michael’s House, we offer a comprehensive, evidence-based treatment program for those who are living with drug and alcohol addiction. Through detox, addiction treatment and a separate sober living estate, we can help those who are ready to stop abusing painkillers to kick-start a new life in recovery. Call now at 1-877-345-8494 to find out more.
Further Reading
