The opioid and opiate epidemic continues to rage in the United States. Today, it is especially dangerous for people struggling with an opiate addiction. The rise of fentanyl has dramatically caused rates of overdose and opiate-related deaths to spike. Trying to find help for an addiction can be embarrassing or isolating, leading many people to try treating opiate addiction at home. This method can be extremely dangerous depending on how long someone has been using drugs.
If you or a loved one are considering treating opiate addiction at home, contact Northpoint Seattle. Our team has addiction resources and opiate addiction treatment programs with licensed professionals. We know reaching out for help can be the last thing you want to do—which is why we treat every person with respect and compassion. Call 888.483.6031 or contact our team online today.
The Dangers of Opiates
When used as prescribed by a doctor, opiates and opioids can be helpful in managing pain. However, they also come with a high risk of addiction and abuse. Opiates work by binding to receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which reduces the perception of pain. They also create feelings of pleasure and euphoria, which is why they are often abused.
The risk of addiction is high with opiates because they change the way the brain works. Over time, the brain gets used to the presence of opiates and starts to rely on them to feel normal. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms when someone stops using opiates, which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous.
Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fever
- Muscle aches and pains
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Cold sweats
- Intense cravings for opiates
Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging to manage on your own, so professional help is often necessary to detox from opiates.
Pros and Cons of Treating Opiate Addiction at Home
Opiates are highly addictive drugs that cause severe withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be so intense that people often feel like they need to keep using the drug just to avoid them. This is why treating opiate addiction at home can be extremely dangerous.
Pros
There are a few potential benefits to treating opiate addiction at home, such as:
- You won’t have to detox in a hospital or clinical setting.
- You’ll be able to save money on treatment costs.
- You can be surrounded by familiar people and things.
Cons
However, there are also many risks associated with treating opiate addiction at home, such as:
- Withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening.
- You could relapse and start using again.
- You won’t have access to professional help or resources.
- You could isolate yourself from friends and family.
If you or someone you love is struggling with opiate addiction, it can be dangerous to try to quit alone.
Pros and Cons of Professional Opiate Treatment
At Northpoint Seattle, we offer a variety of opiate addiction treatment programs. Our team is dedicated to helping you or your loved one recover from addiction and get back to living a happy, healthy life.
Pros
There are many benefits to professional opiate addiction treatment, such as:
- You’ll be in a safe, controlled environment.
- You’ll have access to professional resources and support.
- You can focus on your recovery without distractions.
- You’ll be less likely to relapse.
Cons
The only potential downside of professional opiate addiction treatment is that it costs money. However, insurance and other financial plans may be available to help you afford the treatment that can change your life.
If you’re considering professional opiate addiction treatment, call Northpoint Seattle today. Our admissions counselors are available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you get started on the road to recovery. Contact our team online or call 888.483.6031 to get started.