Are You Addicted to Narcotic Painkillers?

Opioid prescription medications are highly effective at reducing short-term and chronic pain. But their effects are also dangerously seductive because they generate a feeling of euphoria. If you take your doctor-prescribed pain medication as directed, your chance of “getting hooked” is lowered. But someone who constantly takes opioids for recreational use, misuse and use without medical supervision can become severely dependent on them, with the risk of overdose and death.

A psychiatrist can help his (or her) patients overcome addiction disorders. From diagnosis to treatment, the office of Vibrant Integrative Psychiatry is here for you every step of the way. We give all our patients kind and respectful care to help them rectify their issues as soon as possible. 

Addiction to a drug is more than just physical; it’s emotional, too. You continue to use the drug even though it’s causing you serious problems at work or school, in your family or in your social life. Do any of these warning signs apply to you? 

Though the pain for which it was prescribed has subsided, your leftover medication is frequently on your mind. You’re preoccupied with when you can take your next dose and if you have an adequate supply.

You take a larger dose than the prescription says and/or you take it more often. 

You ask your doctor for a refill even though you don’t need one. 

You doctor-shop. You see multiple treatment providers during a single episode or to get prescription medications when you don’t need them. Your mission is to stock up on your supply. 

You “score” painkillers by buying them over the internet, pilfering them from an ailing friend or relative, looking through other people’s medicine cabinets, buying the pills from a street dealer, illegally writing scripts for yourself on a prescription pad you stole from doctors’ offices, and injuring yourself on purpose so a hospital ER will prescribe you some. 

You get angry and defensive if someone close to you confronts you about your habit. 

You can break free from this debilitating and life-threatening stranglehold! The office of Vibrant Integrative Psychiatry is passionate about treating all aspects of mental health, including substance abuse. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment. We look forward to helping you!