Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a chronic medical condition characterized by the uncontrollable use of opioids despite the repercussions. Opioids include prescription medications and illegal drugs. Fentanyl is a prescription medication that is frequently mixed with illicit drugs to increase potency and has become the leading cause of overdose and opioid-related deaths.
The opioid epidemic is a severe public health crisis wreaking havoc in communities across the nation, including Nashville. Successfully overcoming OUD is challenging but possible with expert support and treatment from The Ranch’s opioid rehab in Nashville.
At The Ranch, we offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox through aftercare services, to ensure clients have every resource to achieve recovery. Call 1.844.876.7680 to learn how we can help you or a loved one break the cycle of OUD.
Signs of Opioid Dependence
The signs and symptoms of opioid dependence vary among individuals and depend on the specific type of opioid. However, the following warning signs can be generally applied across all opioids:
- Preoccupation with obtaining opioids – A person may spend meaningful time and effort acquiring opioids, getting prescriptions from multiple doctors, or purchasing opioids illegally.
- Loss of control – An individual may have an inability to control or limit opioid use despite wanting to.
- Neglecting responsibilities – Someone with OUD may prioritize opioid use over other essential aspects of life, including obligations to family, friends, work, and school.
- Increased tolerance – A person may need higher doses to achieve the desired effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms – An individual might experience physical or psychological withdrawal symptoms when not using opioids.
- Changes in mood and behavior – Someone with OUD may demonstrate noticeable changes in behavior and sudden mood swings, hostility, aggression, or irritability.
- Physical changes – A person may experience significant changes in hygiene and weight. They may also exhibit slurred speech, extreme drowsiness, and impaired coordination.
- Social withdrawal – An individual may avoid social situations and previously enjoyed activities or isolate themself from family and friends.
- Financial complications – Someone with OUD may spend significant amounts of money to support opioid use, often instead of paying bills.
Heavy or prolonged opioid abuse can result in numerous health conditions, including cognitive impairments, respiratory issues, cardiac complications, organ damage, and overdose that can result in death. Co-occurring mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, self-harm, and psychosis, are prevalent among individuals with OUD.
The Effects of Opioid Abuse
If you are struggling with OUD, you are certainly not alone. Every day, millions of Americans are also grappling to overcome OUD. Opioid abuse has far-reaching impacts on individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole. Consider the following:
- Physical effects – Tolerance, addiction, withdrawal symptoms, organ damage, infectious disease, overdose, and death are significant physical effects of opioid abuse.
- Psychological effects – Opioid abuse contributes to emotional instability, cognitive impairments, and the exacerbation or development of mental health conditions.
- Social effects – Social isolation, strained relationships, criminal activity, and child abuse and neglect have all been associated with opioid abuse.
Opioid abuse contributes to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and job loss, which affect the overall economy. The costs associated with overdoses, OUD treatment, and health issues related to OUD are a considerable financial burden for our healthcare system. Opioid abuse further contributes to economic strain because of the costs of law enforcement, legal proceedings, and incarcerations related to the opioid epidemic.
What to Expect from Opioid Rehab in Nashville
Knowing what to expect from opioid rehab can help alleviate some of the fears that serve as barriers to treatment. At The Ranch, we provide compassionate, individualized care to meet clients’ unique needs. Addiction impacts all areas of life, so our experienced treatment team utilizes evidence-based therapies and a comprehensive approach to healing the mind, body, and spirit.
Components of individualized treatment plans can include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Family therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Adventure therapy
- Equine therapy
- Mindfulness-based therapies
- Nutritional counseling
- 12-step programs
- Relapse prevention therapy
At The Ranch, our experienced addiction specialists perform a thorough intake assessment to ensure that your treatment plan and level of care match your needs and recovery goals. Treatment is designed to adapt to your changing needs as you progress through treatment.
Reach Out to The Ranch for Opioid Rehab in Nashville
If you or a loved one struggles with opioid abuse, reach out to The Ranch for an opioid rehab program best suited to your needs. Call 1.844.876.7680 or contact us online to begin the admissions process today.
