Fentanyl addiction emerges as a leading danger, wreaking havoc in the lives of all adolescents and adults. Did you know that fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine and half times that more potent than heroin? This means that even in small doses, fentanyl can be lethal.
According to a study, the number of deaths caused by fentanyl has almost risen three times from 2016 to 2021. Behind these statistics are individuals with stories of struggles, resilience, and desperate need for assistance. This shows the significance of addressing the importance of seeking professional help for fentanyl addiction.
This article aims to explore why seeking professional help is crucial and how it can be a game changer for people struggling with fentanyl addiction. At Nirvana Recovery, we want you to have the knowledge to begin a recovery journey. Let’s dive right into it!
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that affects individuals and the society at large. Fentanyl was initially used as a pain reliever prescribed by medical practitioners. The requirement for a prescription has led to illegal manufacturing of fentanyl, which is used for recreational purposes.
You might wonder how fentanyl addiction occurs.
Fentanyl binds to the opioid receptors in the brain, just like cocaine or heroin. It then leads to the accumulation of dopamine molecules in the synapse. This, in turn, produces an extremely euphoric feeling. These feelings of excitement and satisfaction can push you into dependence.
Fentanyl addiction is common among adults from the age of 26 and among adolescents from about 13 years old. The effect of fentanyl is highly addictive, and once you get addicted, you will continue using it uncontrollably despite its harmful impacts, including:
Since it is highly addictive, fentanyl is commonly misused due to its ability to increase dopamine activity in the brain’s reward system. Fentanyl can be taken through smoking, injection, sniffing, or orally.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, illegally manufactured fentanyl contributes to the most recent fentanyl-related cases of death, overdose, and harm.
Fentanyl has many street names like King Ivory, China Girl, Jackpot, Goodfellas, Murder 8, Great Bear, etc.
It is commonly added to other illicit substances such as MDMA, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. This means that you can use fentanyl without even knowing.
How Does Fentanyl Addiction Compare to Other Opioid Addictions?
The 2022 report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration indicates that fentanyl faces 19% misuse statistics. Other opioids commonly misused include:
Morphine at 7.2%
Hydromorphone at 7.9%
Codeine at 9.3%
Tramadol at 9.4%
Hydrocodone at 10.2%
Oxycodone at 12.3 %
Methadone at 14.8%
Buprenorphine at 19.5%
Why is Professional Help Crucial for Fentanyl Addiction?
Dealing with fentanyl addiction can be daunting, especially since most people never know when they are using fentanyl. Join us to explore why professional help is crucial for fentanyl addiction.
The Risk of Fentanyl Use is Fatal
Whether you are experimenting with fentanyl or using it unknowingly, it can expose you to severe risks. As we have noted, fentanyl is more potent than heroin and morphine, meaning higher chances of fentanyl overdose. It is important to understand the nuances of fentanyl use, potency, and potential harmful consequences. With the domination of illegally manufactured fentanyl in the market and the addition of fentanyl to other substances, awareness of the risks involved is crucial. This is where professional help comes in!
Signs of Fentanyl Addiction Are Not Clear to Layman
The first step in addressing the growing crisis of fentanyl misuse is to recognize the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction. But that is not the only reason. Recognizing the signs of fentanyl addiction is also crucial in navigating addiction through treatment and recovery. Due to unknown use and addiction similarities with other opioids, identifying the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction may be difficult for layman.
Professional help can assist you in identifying and recognizing the various signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction. Whether it be respiratory distress, chest tightness, hallucinations, or mood swings, professional help can offer insights into the physical and behavioral indicators of fentanyl addiction.
The Self-Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction can be Dangerous
The stigma attached to fentanyl addiction may push you to attempt self-treatment. Self-treatment or fentanyl withdrawal is not only prone to dangers but also ineffective. Treatment for fentanyl addiction is full of complexities, necessitating professional care and guidance. Besides, qualified professionals will also help you navigate any other underlying issues unknown to you.
You Might Miss Out on Early Intervention
Early intervention is crucial in addressing opioid misuse. Professional help can offer insights and guidance through early intervention to prevent addiction from escalating. With the right professional help, you increase your chances of successful recovery.
What Happens When Professionals Treat Your Fentanyl Addiction
If you’re wondering how professionals can help you navigate fentanyl addiction, you are in the right place. Keep reading!
If you are struggling with fentanyl addiction, know that you are not alone. Healthcare professionals can help you by utilizing various strategies to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Professionals help design a holistic approach to fentanyl addiction. Understanding that every individual has unique needs, healthcare professionals tailor treatment plans to your needs. Treatment plans developed by professionals entail a range of interventions that address the physical, emotional, mental, social, and psychological dimensions of fentanyl addiction.
The following are components of comprehensive treatment plans curated by professionals:
Detoxification: Detoxification is crucial in navigating fentanyl dependence. If you need to detox from fentanyl, you should seek professional help. Healthcare experts can help you with medical detoxification. No matter the circumstances, you should never detox at home because you may suffer coma, seizure, or other serious effects. Professionals will initiate and monitor the detoxification process to ensure success and recovery.
Pharmacotherapy: Healthcare professionals know the right medication for fentanyl addiction treatment. They will also give you some medications to help you stabilize during detoxification. Naltrexone, buprenorphine, and methadone are some of the medications commonly used for fentanyl detoxification. With such medications, you will experience less severe withdrawal symptoms.
Counseling and Therapy: Counselling and therapy help address the psychological dimensions of fentanyl addiction. Professional-led individual therapies help you identify the potential causes of your fentanyl addiction. Behavioral therapies will help you change your attitude about the addiction and help you develop healthy coping mechanisms. You can also learn from others with similar experiences and receive emotional support through group therapies. Other therapies, like family therapy, will help you navigate family dynamics. During counseling and therapy, professionals not only focus on treatment but also explore the root causes of fentanyl addiction. As they delve deeper, they will identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to your addiction. Addressing these underlying issues ensures holistic recovery and improves your overall well-being.
Long-Term Recovery Support: Sustainable recovery goes beyond initial treatment. Healthcare professionals provide aftercare services and relapse prevention strategies to guide you through recovery. Recommended services include alumni programs, support groups, and mindfulness meditation in fentanyl addiction recovery. Post-treatment professional help can support your reintegration into society and reinforce healthy coping mechanisms.
Overcoming Barriers to Seeking Professional Help for Addiction
Now, you have learned the importance of seeking professional help for fentanyl addiction. What’s next? Sometimes, you may face certain barriers while seeking professional help. Let’s explore how to overcome these barriers:
Stigma Surrounding Addiction
People struggling with fentanyl addiction often encounter the rippling effects of the pervasive societal stigma attached to fentanyl addiction. Stigma can worsen addiction since it discourages one from seeking professional help for fear of being identified and labeled.
The stigma attached to fentanyl addiction is multifaceted and requires a collaborative effort to counter. We must all work together to create a compassionate environment that encourages those struggling with fentanyl addiction to seek professional help free from fear of judgment. By fostering understanding, debunking myths and misconceptions, and challenging stereotypes, society at large can help fight fentanyl addiction.
The other way to fight the stigma attached to fentanyl addiction is through advancing open communication. It is time to normalize conversations surrounding fentanyl addiction. Safe and open communication provides people struggling with fentanyl addiction with a forum to acknowledge their challenges without fear of judgment. It also encourages them to seek professional help early enough.
Access to Treatment Resources
Accessible and affordable treatment options are vital in the battle against fentanyl addiction. Financial obstacles often bar people from seeking professional help. Some treatment centers are very expensive, while others do not accept insurance.
Logistical challenges such as childcare and transportation costs may also impede people struggling with fentanyl addiction from pursuing professional help or even attending treatment.
We can address these challenges by adopting comprehensive approaches like policy changes and community support. Also, we can all fight obstacles to treatment by expanding affordable treatment platforms so that more people can access relevant treatment for successful recovery.
When to Seek Help for Fentanyl Addiction
You must recognize the appropriate time to seek help for fentanyl addiction for a successful recovery. The following may be indicators that you need to seek help:
If your tolerance to fentanyl is increasing, requiring you to use higher doses for similar effects, you need to seek help. Seeking professional help may help prevent escalation to addiction.
Withdrawal symptoms when not using fentanyl is another red flag indicating the need for help.
If you notice that fentanyl use is starting to interfere with your daily activities, relationships, and responsibilities, it’s time to seek professional help.
Failed attempts to quit fentanyl use may also be an indicator of the need for professional assistance.
In addition to these indicators, you should also be watchful for the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction. Glaring signs are top indicators of the need for professional assistance. Some of the signs and symptoms to look for include
Respiratory distress
Social isolation
Hallucinations
Loss of consciousness
Sweating
Nausea
Vomiting
Where to Find Professionals For Fentanyl Addiction in Arizona
As you embark on the journey to recovery, it is important to consider the treatment options available and choose the right support system. Here’s a guide to selecting the right professional help:
Options for Treatment
Fentanyl addiction may be treated via inpatient or outpatient interventions. The best approach is to curate a comprehensive treatment option that ensures holistic recovery. Medication and behavioral therapies are among the most effective treatment options for fentanyl addiction. These options are evidence-based and proven.
Medications
Medications for opioid use disorders have been proven to be effective in treating fentanyl addiction. These medications can similarly interact with the opioid receptors. The only difference is that the medications do not have the same euphoric effects as fentanyl.
Among the medications used is methadone, which is a full agonist drug that attaches to opioid receptors, activating them to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist and also works similarly to methadone. On the other hand, naltrexone is an antagonist that prevents fentanyl from attaching to the opioid receptors in the brain, thereby blocking its activity.
Counseling and Therapies
Behavioral therapies are very effective when used together with medicines in treating fentanyl addiction. These therapies focus on altering the patient’s attitude and behaviors associated with fentanyl use. They help the patients develop healthy coping mechanisms and life skills.
Here are examples of behavioral therapies used for fentanyl addiction treatment:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: It helps you identify the root causes of your addiction. Professionals then guide you in developing healthy mechanisms to manage your behaviors and expectations to deal effectively with your stress and triggers.
Motivational Interviewing: This therapy is patient-centered. It involves self-reflection to help you navigate your mixed feelings and emotions to change.
Contingency Management: This approach is reward-based. It acknowledges and rewards a patient’s progress and good behavior. In this therapy, patients earn points for negative drug tests. They can redeem their points for items and activities that encourage healthy living.
The Multidisciplinary Team at Nirvana Recovery
At Nirvana Recovery, we boast a multidisciplinary team of professionals dedicated and committed to ensuring personalized and comprehensive treatment for all. Our focus is holistic healing led by a group of experts who not only treat fentanyl addiction but also address any underlying issues. We also have recovery coaches who provide guidance, ongoing support, and motivation throughout the treatment and post-treatment to ensure lasting and sustainable recovery.
Below are some of our treatment programs that can help those struggling with fentanyl addiction:
Group Therapy
One or more psychologists hold our group therapy sessions. The groups consist of about 15 people and run at least once a week. In our group therapy sessions, patients share with people undergoing similar challenges and receive emotional support. We combine our group therapy with individual therapies for optimum results.
Individual Counseling
Due to the unique challenges faced by every individual, we provide individual therapies to help every individual identify the root causes of their addiction and how to overcome them. Individual therapy provides a safe and private platform to share your struggles with a professional therapist without fear of judgment.
Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP)
Our PHP targets people with various mental health issues. Here, you will meet various professionals ranging from therapists and psychiatrists to other practitioners. Our PHP runs five days a week, with at least eight hours daily committed to treatment.
Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP)
IOP is commonly used for mental health issues and addiction. It is important if you don’t need detoxification or maximum supervision. In our IOP, you will continue your daily activities and receive outpatient treatment. It offers you control over your recovery.
If you are looking for a treatment center that offers holistic healing, Nirvana Recovery is the place for you! Don’t hesitate to contact our admissions consultants for more information!
Conclusion
It can be challenging to deal with fentanyl addiction. But you are not alone in this journey. The complex nature of fentanyl addiction treatment requires professional help. With the necessary expertise, skills, and experience, healthcare professionals can tailor treatment plans to your unique needs. Professional help is also important to prevent the risk of fentanyl use, identify the signs of fentanyl addiction, and prevent the dangers of self-treatment.
If you are struggling with fentanyl addiction, consider Nirvana Recovery. We apply a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring treatment for fentanyl addiction and underlying mental health issues. Contact our admission consultants today to discuss your admission.
Fentanyl addiction prevention strategies include responsible prescription practices, community educational programs, safe disposal of prescription opioids, and the regulation of the medication supply chain.
Communities can help create awareness about the dangers of fentanyl addiction, foster open communication, and offer emotional support through support groups. They can also help create more access to treatment facilities.
Most governments have put in place regulations governing the production and distribution of fentanyl. They have also established initiatives to promote international efforts in battling the rising fentanyl crisis. Governments are also strengthening law enforcement to deal with illegally made fentanyl.
Fentanyl addiction can break family ties and create a toxic family environment. Supporting loved ones with fentanyl addiction includes Family therapy, community support groups, and counseling, which can help navigate family dynamics.
Yes, naloxone is easily available to people. With the right prescription, anyone can administer it in the event of an overdose. Naloxone binds to the opioid receptors and then reverses fentanyl effects temporarily, thus preventing the harmful effects of overdose.
The Importance of Professional Help for Fentanyl Addiction in Arizona
Published On March 23, 2024
Fentanyl addiction emerges as a leading danger, wreaking havoc in the lives of all adolescents and adults. Did you know that fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine and half times that more potent than heroin? This means that even in small doses, fentanyl can be lethal.
According to a study, the number of deaths caused by fentanyl has almost risen three times from 2016 to 2021. Behind these statistics are individuals with stories of struggles, resilience, and desperate need for assistance. This shows the significance of addressing the importance of seeking professional help for fentanyl addiction.
This article aims to explore why seeking professional help is crucial and how it can be a game changer for people struggling with fentanyl addiction. At Nirvana Recovery, we want you to have the knowledge to begin a recovery journey. Let’s dive right into it!
Table of Contents
Understanding Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that affects individuals and the society at large. Fentanyl was initially used as a pain reliever prescribed by medical practitioners. The requirement for a prescription has led to illegal manufacturing of fentanyl, which is used for recreational purposes.
You might wonder how fentanyl addiction occurs.
Fentanyl binds to the opioid receptors in the brain, just like cocaine or heroin. It then leads to the accumulation of dopamine molecules in the synapse. This, in turn, produces an extremely euphoric feeling. These feelings of excitement and satisfaction can push you into dependence.
Fentanyl addiction is common among adults from the age of 26 and among adolescents from about 13 years old. The effect of fentanyl is highly addictive, and once you get addicted, you will continue using it uncontrollably despite its harmful impacts, including:
The Rising Crisis of Fentanyl Misuse
Since it is highly addictive, fentanyl is commonly misused due to its ability to increase dopamine activity in the brain’s reward system. Fentanyl can be taken through smoking, injection, sniffing, or orally.
How Does Fentanyl Addiction Compare to Other Opioid Addictions?
The 2022 report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration indicates that fentanyl faces 19% misuse statistics. Other opioids commonly misused include:
Why is Professional Help Crucial for Fentanyl Addiction?
Dealing with fentanyl addiction can be daunting, especially since most people never know when they are using fentanyl. Join us to explore why professional help is crucial for fentanyl addiction.
The Risk of Fentanyl Use is Fatal
Whether you are experimenting with fentanyl or using it unknowingly, it can expose you to severe risks. As we have noted, fentanyl is more potent than heroin and morphine, meaning higher chances of fentanyl overdose. It is important to understand the nuances of fentanyl use, potency, and potential harmful consequences. With the domination of illegally manufactured fentanyl in the market and the addition of fentanyl to other substances, awareness of the risks involved is crucial. This is where professional help comes in!
Signs of Fentanyl Addiction Are Not Clear to Layman
The first step in addressing the growing crisis of fentanyl misuse is to recognize the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction. But that is not the only reason. Recognizing the signs of fentanyl addiction is also crucial in navigating addiction through treatment and recovery. Due to unknown use and addiction similarities with other opioids, identifying the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction may be difficult for layman.
Professional help can assist you in identifying and recognizing the various signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction. Whether it be respiratory distress, chest tightness, hallucinations, or mood swings, professional help can offer insights into the physical and behavioral indicators of fentanyl addiction.
The Self-Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction can be Dangerous
The stigma attached to fentanyl addiction may push you to attempt self-treatment. Self-treatment or fentanyl withdrawal is not only prone to dangers but also ineffective. Treatment for fentanyl addiction is full of complexities, necessitating professional care and guidance. Besides, qualified professionals will also help you navigate any other underlying issues unknown to you.
You Might Miss Out on Early Intervention
Early intervention is crucial in addressing opioid misuse. Professional help can offer insights and guidance through early intervention to prevent addiction from escalating. With the right professional help, you increase your chances of successful recovery.
What Happens When Professionals Treat Your Fentanyl Addiction
If you’re wondering how professionals can help you navigate fentanyl addiction, you are in the right place. Keep reading!
If you are struggling with fentanyl addiction, know that you are not alone. Healthcare professionals can help you by utilizing various strategies to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Professionals help design a holistic approach to fentanyl addiction. Understanding that every individual has unique needs, healthcare professionals tailor treatment plans to your needs. Treatment plans developed by professionals entail a range of interventions that address the physical, emotional, mental, social, and psychological dimensions of fentanyl addiction.
The following are components of comprehensive treatment plans curated by professionals:
Overcoming Barriers to Seeking Professional Help for Addiction
Now, you have learned the importance of seeking professional help for fentanyl addiction. What’s next? Sometimes, you may face certain barriers while seeking professional help. Let’s explore how to overcome these barriers:
Stigma Surrounding Addiction
People struggling with fentanyl addiction often encounter the rippling effects of the pervasive societal stigma attached to fentanyl addiction. Stigma can worsen addiction since it discourages one from seeking professional help for fear of being identified and labeled.
The stigma attached to fentanyl addiction is multifaceted and requires a collaborative effort to counter. We must all work together to create a compassionate environment that encourages those struggling with fentanyl addiction to seek professional help free from fear of judgment. By fostering understanding, debunking myths and misconceptions, and challenging stereotypes, society at large can help fight fentanyl addiction.
The other way to fight the stigma attached to fentanyl addiction is through advancing open communication. It is time to normalize conversations surrounding fentanyl addiction. Safe and open communication provides people struggling with fentanyl addiction with a forum to acknowledge their challenges without fear of judgment. It also encourages them to seek professional help early enough.
Access to Treatment Resources
Accessible and affordable treatment options are vital in the battle against fentanyl addiction. Financial obstacles often bar people from seeking professional help. Some treatment centers are very expensive, while others do not accept insurance.
Logistical challenges such as childcare and transportation costs may also impede people struggling with fentanyl addiction from pursuing professional help or even attending treatment.
We can address these challenges by adopting comprehensive approaches like policy changes and community support. Also, we can all fight obstacles to treatment by expanding affordable treatment platforms so that more people can access relevant treatment for successful recovery.
When to Seek Help for Fentanyl Addiction
You must recognize the appropriate time to seek help for fentanyl addiction for a successful recovery. The following may be indicators that you need to seek help:
In addition to these indicators, you should also be watchful for the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction. Glaring signs are top indicators of the need for professional assistance. Some of the signs and symptoms to look for include
Where to Find Professionals For Fentanyl Addiction in Arizona
As you embark on the journey to recovery, it is important to consider the treatment options available and choose the right support system. Here’s a guide to selecting the right professional help:
Options for Treatment
Fentanyl addiction may be treated via inpatient or outpatient interventions. The best approach is to curate a comprehensive treatment option that ensures holistic recovery. Medication and behavioral therapies are among the most effective treatment options for fentanyl addiction. These options are evidence-based and proven.
Medications
Medications for opioid use disorders have been proven to be effective in treating fentanyl addiction. These medications can similarly interact with the opioid receptors. The only difference is that the medications do not have the same euphoric effects as fentanyl.
Among the medications used is methadone, which is a full agonist drug that attaches to opioid receptors, activating them to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist and also works similarly to methadone. On the other hand, naltrexone is an antagonist that prevents fentanyl from attaching to the opioid receptors in the brain, thereby blocking its activity.
Counseling and Therapies
Behavioral therapies are very effective when used together with medicines in treating fentanyl addiction. These therapies focus on altering the patient’s attitude and behaviors associated with fentanyl use. They help the patients develop healthy coping mechanisms and life skills.
Here are examples of behavioral therapies used for fentanyl addiction treatment:
The Multidisciplinary Team at Nirvana Recovery
At Nirvana Recovery, we boast a multidisciplinary team of professionals dedicated and committed to ensuring personalized and comprehensive treatment for all. Our focus is holistic healing led by a group of experts who not only treat fentanyl addiction but also address any underlying issues. We also have recovery coaches who provide guidance, ongoing support, and motivation throughout the treatment and post-treatment to ensure lasting and sustainable recovery.
Below are some of our treatment programs that can help those struggling with fentanyl addiction:
Group Therapy
One or more psychologists hold our group therapy sessions. The groups consist of about 15 people and run at least once a week. In our group therapy sessions, patients share with people undergoing similar challenges and receive emotional support. We combine our group therapy with individual therapies for optimum results.
Individual Counseling
Due to the unique challenges faced by every individual, we provide individual therapies to help every individual identify the root causes of their addiction and how to overcome them. Individual therapy provides a safe and private platform to share your struggles with a professional therapist without fear of judgment.
Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP)
Our PHP targets people with various mental health issues. Here, you will meet various professionals ranging from therapists and psychiatrists to other practitioners. Our PHP runs five days a week, with at least eight hours daily committed to treatment.
Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP)
IOP is commonly used for mental health issues and addiction. It is important if you don’t need detoxification or maximum supervision. In our IOP, you will continue your daily activities and receive outpatient treatment. It offers you control over your recovery.
If you are looking for a treatment center that offers holistic healing, Nirvana Recovery is the place for you! Don’t hesitate to contact our admissions consultants for more information!
Conclusion
It can be challenging to deal with fentanyl addiction. But you are not alone in this journey. The complex nature of fentanyl addiction treatment requires professional help. With the necessary expertise, skills, and experience, healthcare professionals can tailor treatment plans to your unique needs. Professional help is also important to prevent the risk of fentanyl use, identify the signs of fentanyl addiction, and prevent the dangers of self-treatment.
If you are struggling with fentanyl addiction, consider Nirvana Recovery. We apply a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring treatment for fentanyl addiction and underlying mental health issues. Contact our admission consultants today to discuss your admission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Fentanyl addiction prevention strategies include responsible prescription practices, community educational programs, safe disposal of prescription opioids, and the regulation of the medication supply chain.
Communities can help create awareness about the dangers of fentanyl addiction, foster open communication, and offer emotional support through support groups. They can also help create more access to treatment facilities.
Most governments have put in place regulations governing the production and distribution of fentanyl. They have also established initiatives to promote international efforts in battling the rising fentanyl crisis. Governments are also strengthening law enforcement to deal with illegally made fentanyl.
Fentanyl addiction can break family ties and create a toxic family environment. Supporting loved ones with fentanyl addiction includes Family therapy, community support groups, and counseling, which can help navigate family dynamics.
Yes, naloxone is easily available to people. With the right prescription, anyone can administer it in the event of an overdose. Naloxone binds to the opioid receptors and then reverses fentanyl effects temporarily, thus preventing the harmful effects of overdose.