Signs & Symptoms of Opioid Addiction

The opioid crisis continues to be ever-present across the United States. These drugs are often prescribed to treat serious medical conditions, but when misused, people can quickly become dependent on these potent substances. View the signs and symptoms of opioid addiction to learn how to spot red flags and assist someone who has become dependent.

Magnolia Recovery is a safe, temptation-free environment outside of Charleston, SC for women to work through the 12-steps. Contact us to learn more. 

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a real disease that makes dramatic changes to the brain. When you use an addictive substance, your brain is flooded with dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that controls feelings of pleasure. After repeatedly using an addictive substance, your brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine that are being released, hence dulling its effects. When your tolerance for the drug increases, your brain requires more and more of the substance to feel the pleasurable effects of the dopamine. Soon, it will need an extremely high amount in order to function “normally.”

How to Spot Opioid Abuse

Many signs of opioid abuse become apparent when the affected is not on the drug. They may be experiencing withdrawal or cravings, as their brain requires the rush they receive from the instant dopamine release. Here are some symptoms that may indicate someone is abusing opioids:

· Sporadic and intense mood swings

· Significant weight lost

·  Isolating from loved ones

· Withdrawing from activities they used to enjoy

· Flu-like symptoms such as nausea and sweating

· Changes in sleeping and exercise habits

· Changes in their usual schedule

· New financial problems

When someone is high on opioids, signs include:

· Drowsiness

· Slurred speech

· Poor coordination

· Small pupils

· Constant scratching or itching

How You Can Help

If you believe that a loved one is struggling with an opioid addiction, there are ways that you can help them begin their journey to recovery:

· Calmly confront the addicted. Sit down with your loved one and gently let them know you are aware of their condition and are concerned for them. Do not get angry with them—this will only come across as criticism rather than willingness to help. It’s important that you not only address the issue, but also tell them how you will help them moving forward.

· Don’t enable them. After your discussion, ensure that you do not enable their addiction. This means you should no longer make excuses for their behavior, hide their addiction from others, or take over their responsibilities for them.

· Help them seek assistance. A critical step is helping your loved one find professional assistance to deal with their addiction. This may be the only way that they can truly recovery from opioid abuse. Finding help is difficult to do alone, and they likely won’t seek treatment without someone to assist them.

Seek Assistance from Magnolia Recovery

We hope you better understand the signs and symptoms of opioid addiction. If you believe that you or a loved one is addicted to opioids, Magnolia Recovery can assist you. We offer women a safe, temptation-free environment to work through the 12-steps. Start getting the help and support that you need—contact us today to learn more.