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It might seem like consuming opioids isn’t as dangerous as many would say.
But opioids can quickly become addictive without realizing it.
According to The US Department Of Labor, a person can get addicted to opioids as quickly as in a few days. It can become especially harmful to those who suffer from certain conditions like sleep apnea, asthma, stress disorder, older adults, and people who suffer from a history of alcohol or substance abuse.
It is essential to be aware of friends and family, as some might not know that they could easily fall into this trap. Johns Hopkins Medicine Help Center states that some of the symptoms of misuse include drowsiness, a change in sleep habits, weight loss, and isolation from family members or friends.
Some other symptoms to be aware of include new financial issues, chronic flu-like symptoms, and stealing from family members and friends.
If you believe a friend or a loved one might be misusing opioids, there are several things you can do to help them. The most important thing after identifying the problem is dealing with addiction. This is the hardest step, but the most essential one.
The American Society of Anesthesiologists recommends, “If you or a loved one is ready to seek help for an addiction, the first step is to find a health professional who specializes in addiction medicine.”
It can take from three to five days, or even 10, for symptoms of withdrawal to emerge. The OPEN (Prevention. Treatment. Recovery) is a free website created by young people where teens or adults can learn about symptoms of opioid misuse and withdrawal, how to start a conversation with a friend or loved one who might be misusing opioids, steps to take in case of an overdose and other valuable information.
Falling into relapse is normal for those struggling with addiction, but with support from family and friends, they can quickly achieve success.
This article was written as part of a program to educate youth and others about Alameda County’s opioid crisis, prevention and treatment options. The program is funded by the Alameda County Behavioral Health Department and the grant is administered by Three Valleys Community Foundation.
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