When it comes to drug abuse in the United States, addiction rates are on the rise in cities across the country. This is especially prevalent in metropolitan areas, where a variety of drugs are easily accessible. Recent data from a nationwide survey shows that almost 10% of people over twelve reported having abused an illicit drug, up from 8% in years prior. New York City is no exception, and the use of opioids has been increasing exponentially in recent years. Prescription opioid use is often seen as harmless because they are prescribed by doctors, but long term use opiates is actually incredibly dangerous due to its addictive properties. Even if opioids are initially used for their intended purpose, users can quickly become dependent and the addiction may escalate beyond the individual's control. This can be harmful to the user's physical, mental, and social wellbeing.
Abuse of opioids often begins with a legal prescription for painkillers such as hydrocodone, morphine, oxycodone, or fentanyl. It is not uncommon for patients who are prescribed these painkillers to become increasingly tolerant to the drug and addicted to the way that it makes them feel. This is where abusive behavior begins- often starting with the seemingly innocent extra pill without a doctor's direction. This can quickly result in development of physical and mental dependence and can cause addicted individuals to turn to illicit opioids or other drugs when their prescription has run out. If you or a family member or loved one has been prescribed an opioid, it is important to be aware of the following warning signs of abuse:
If you suspect that you or someone close to you may be developing an addictive habit, it is crucial that action is taken immediately, as time is of the essence. Prolonged use and abuse of illicit opiates and/or other drugs can have profound and irreversible effects on the life of the user.
New York offers a variety of drug rehabilitation programs which fit the unique needs of individuals struggling with addiction. The goal of the centers is to provide a comprehensive rehabilitation process which involves New York drug addiction detox and continuing therapy to work towards long term recovery and relapse prevention. This is accomplished for each individual through a personalized set of treatment strategies which include both outpatient and inpatient New York drug addiction treatment options, individual and group therapy, and specialized aftercare programs.
Medical detoxification is the first step taken towards recovery. During the process of detoxification, brought about by the lack of the addictive drugs, serious withdrawal symptoms arise because of the physical dependency the body develops upon them. This can be the most difficult and dangerous stage of rehabilitation- but it doesn't have to be. With supervision of qualified medical professionals in a clean and secure environment, a detoxification process that is both safe and effective can be achieved. The process is tailored to the needs of each person, depending the type and severity of their addiction. Individuals will often receive appropriate medication which helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms and the discomfort associated with them. New York drug addiction detox may seem intimidating, but it is a necessary step if recovery is going to be achieved.
After the physical dependency to the drug(s) is overcome, the next step focuses on addressing the psychological aspect of the addiction. Outpatient and inpatient drug treatment is offered, each providing a different style of New York drug addiction treatment based on individual needs.
The outpatient program is an option for people who don't have the ability to put their school, work, or other social responsibilities on hold while receiving the treatment they need. This is a more private option for those who are personally motivated to recover. This program provides individual therapy sessions and introduction into local recovery support programs. The support and understanding of peers and loved ones is crucial during this type of treatment.
Inpatient drug treatment is often recommended because it offers individuals a safe place to stay for either short or long periods of time depending on their needs. For the duration of the rehabilitation process, constant support is provided in an environment free of triggers and stress. Staying at a rehabilitation center allows recovering individuals the opportunity to meet others just like themselves- those who are striving to overcome their addictions with the goal of recovery in mind. Inpatient care provides various types of treatments to help the recovering addict mentally overcome their addiction. Often, mental health disorders go hand in hand with addictions and recognition of this is known as Dual Diagnosis. Personalized individual therapies offered at New York drug rehabs help recovering addicts understand the potential underlying causes of the mental health disorder, addiction, and how they are linked. Forms of individual therapy offered at the centers include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Moral Reconation Therapy. These allow one-on-one interactions with a counselor will help them work through complex personal issues relating to their addictive tendencies. Additional types of alternative therapeutic techniques are offered including acupuncture therapy, equine therapy, and yoga.
Even after a full recovery has been made, it is important that you or your loved one are aware of the signs of relapse and prevention techniques. New York rehabs provide training and education on these techniques to help individuals and their families gain the knowledge and skills needed to reduce the risk of relapse.
New York drug addiction treatment is possible with proper treatment. New York drug rehabilitation offers access to the expert care and support systems that you or a loved one needs to achieve sobriety. All you have to do is reach out. You can find help and more information at Drug Rehab New York.
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/nationwide-trends