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Opioids are classified as drugs that are commonly used in medicine as pain relievers. These drugs interact with certain brain receptors and the spinal cord to block the transmission of pain signals. According to a report by Mayo Clinic, opioids can be highly addictive as these drugs block pain receptors, they also stimulate the reward system in the brain, boosting dopamine and endorphins, creating an addiction to that feeling. The repeated use of the drug can also possibly create a dependence and users can develop withdrawal symptoms. Because of withdrawal and the desire to be pain-free, some struggle to get out of the addiction without proper therapy and / or treatment.
Impacts of Opioids on the Brain
Opioids can have significant effects on a person’s mental health. Chronic use or abuse of opioids is linked to increased rates of depression and anxiety and even suicidal thoughts. Reports from the National Institutes on Health (NIH) state that opioid abuse has also been known to have long-term effects on cognitive impairments like memory and decision-making, which further shows the effects of opioids on mental health. Because opioid use disorder is a notable public health issue in Alameda County, the impact the drugs have on mental health is a concern.
Psychological approaches play an important role in treating substance abuse by addressing the psychological factors that contribute to addiction. These approaches, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, are found to be effective approaches to treatment and can be used alone or in combination with other therapies and medications. As reported in “Drug Misuse: Psychosocial Interventions” produced by the British Psychological Society, cognitive behavioral therapy helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use while motivational interviewing is a style of communication that helps individuals explore and resolve their different outlook to substance abuse.
Local organizations like Integrated Counseling and Consulting Services and the East Bay Community Recovery Project strive to help adults and adolescents with mental health and substance abuse treatments that use these strategies to ensure well being and psychological stability showing their impact and importance in the community.
Alameda County’s Approach to Drug Therapy and Mental Health
Overall, the statistics in Alameda County, as reported in the Alameda County Behavioral Health 2021-2022 Annual Report, highlight the significant connection between opioid use and mental health challenges, showing the need for accessible treatment and support services to address the issue.
The county is actively working to address these issues of accessibility by providing a range of resources and treatment services like behavioral and cognitive person centered therapy, along with treatments to combat substance abuse and the mental health risks that follow.
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.
