Going through withdrawal is probably the part of getting treatment that is most concerning to people new to their recovery journey. Especially when dealing with opiates, withdrawal can be difficult, but it can be done with the right help and support. If you or someone you love wants to stop using opiates but feels hesitant about the withdrawal process, it can be reassuring and even empowering to learn more about the signs of opiate withdrawal and what to expect during opiate withdrawal symptoms. Our opiate addiction rehab center at Liberty Health can provide the guidance you need.
What Is Opiate Withdrawal?
When a person uses a drug frequently over some time, their body will make changes to accommodate the presence of the drug. Then, when they want to stop using the drug, the body starts to reverse the changes, which can be very uncomfortable and even scary if the person does not know what to expect.
In the case of opiates, the drug operates by taking advantage of the brain’s pre-existing painkilling mechanisms and reward centers. This makes opiates very effective at relieving pain and strongly reinforces the use of the drug, leading to a high potential for abuse and addiction.
What Are the Symptoms of Opiate Withdrawal?
There are many symptoms of opiate withdrawal, and not every person will exhibit all of them. Some people might experience some symptoms more strongly than others, or sometimes not. Some of the most common symptoms of opiate withdrawal are:
- Intense drug cravings
- Stomach pain and upset
- Sweating
- Yawning
- Agitation and restlessness
- Anxiety
- Body aches and pains
- Sleeping problems
- Goosebumps
How Long Will Opiate Withdrawal Last?
Usually, symptoms of opiate withdrawal follow a timeline – at first, the symptoms are somewhat mild, then become more acute and uncomfortable as time goes on. If the person does not use the drug, eventually, the withdrawal symptoms will reduce in severity and then extinguish. However, everyone’s experience with the withdrawal process is different because many personal circumstances factor into how the withdrawal will go. Some of the factors that may affect the course of a person’s withdrawal are:
- Age
- The general state of health
- How long the drug has been used
- How much of the drug has been taken
- Whether or not other drugs or alcohol have also been abused
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
Our addiction treatment experts can provide the support necessary to help individuals no matter what opiate withdrawal signs they are evincing.
Can an Opiate Addiction Rehab Center Help During Opiate Withdrawal?
Yes, studies have shown that people who participate in an addiction treatment program have better outcomes with recovery over time. Participating in an opiate addiction treatment program can help you or your loved one navigate the withdrawal process through medically-assisted detox, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), or some combination of the two.
Another benefit of participation in an opiate rehab program is that clients will receive therapy and counseling to help them address the root causes of addiction in their life and build skills that they will need to support them in their recovery as they move forward. Developing a strong support system is crucial to recovery, so many people who are committed to their sobriety choose to participate in ongoing addiction treatment programs.
Liberty Health Services Can Help With Opiate Withdrawal
At our luxury treatment center in Derry, New Hampshire, we at Liberty Health Services offer proven treatments and therapies and individualized treatment plans. We work with our clients and their families to develop a strategy to help them achieve lasting recovery. If you or someone you care about has been struggling with opiate addiction and you are ready to seek some help, reach out to our caring and compassionate staff today at 855.959.4521. Let us tell you what we can do to help.
