Prescription drugs are powerful tools when used correctly, and we all have a responsibility to be aware of the potentially dangerous consequences when they are abused. By understanding the risks, signs of abuse, and how to approach loved ones who may be struggling with addiction, we can help make a difference in our communities and create a healthier tomorrow free from prescription drug abuse.
Virtue Recovery Houston can help. If you are seeking prescription drug addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one in Texas, reach out to us today. Call us at 866.457.4811, or connect with us online for more information.
Understanding How Prescription Drug Abuse Starts
When used correctly, prescription drugs can be a powerful and safe tool. However, if taken in higher doses than prescribed or with other substances such as alcohol or street drugs, they can be highly addictive and dangerous to one’s health. Individuals may start to use the drug recreationally due to curiosity, peer pressure, or as an escape from emotional problems. If you suspect someone close to you is struggling with prescription drug abuse or addiction, it’s essential to approach the issue in an understanding and compassionate manner.
It is also important to remember that prescription drug abuse affects individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and social classes. By increasing awareness and understanding of this growing issue, we can help combat it in our communities. Together we can work towards creating a healthier tomorrow without the negative consequences of prescription drug abuse.
What Are Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse?
Although abuse of these drugs can start innocently, it can quickly spiral into a dangerous addiction and even potentially fatal consequences if not caught early. Knowing the signs of potential abuse and how to approach the topic with loved ones are important steps in fighting against the rise in prescription drug abuse.
Signs of prescription drug abuse can include:
- A sudden increase in doctor visits or pharmacy trips
- Secretive behavior or a change in social circles
- Complaints of physical ailments that have no medical basis
- Changes in appearance, such as a disheveled look or an unwillingness to engage in personal hygiene
- Neglecting responsibilities at work or school
- Financial problems due to excessive spending on drugs
- Erratic behavior and mood swings
- Refusal to address the issues that are causing them stress
- Obtaining prescriptions from multiple doctors
- Hiding pills in strange places or taking more than prescribed
- Increasing tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when not using drugs
If you think someone may be struggling with prescription drug abuse, it’s important to reach out and offer support. Encouraging loved ones to seek professional help can be a difficult process, but it is a crucial first step in getting them on the road to recovery.
The Importance of Seeking Help for Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drugs can be great tools for relieving pain and treating certain illnesses. However, if misused or taken beyond the prescribed amount, these medications can be dangerous and even life-threatening. When used this way, it is important to understand that prescription drug abuse should not be treated lightly. This type of misuse comes with numerous health risks, including addiction and overdose.
If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug abuse, seeking help is the best option. Addiction treatment centers can provide individualized care for those struggling with these issues. They are also equipped to support loved ones who may have a family member dealing with an addiction.
It is important to remember that no one should feel ashamed to seek help with prescription drug abuse. Addiction affects people from all walks of life, and often the people suffering are unaware of how serious their issue is. Seeking professional help can be a positive step toward recovery and provide the necessary resources to get back on track. Following detox, a treatment plan customized to your unique needs and goals is the best way to break the cycle of prescription drug abuse.
Find Effective Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment at Virtue Recovery Houston
Although prescription drug misuse is an ever-growing problem in our communities, we can make a difference by increasing awareness and understanding. By educating ourselves and our families and supporting those who are struggling with addiction, we can help create a safer environment free from the negative consequences of prescription drug abuse.
And by providing effective treatment, we can help individuals overcome prescription drug abuse and lead happier, healthier lives. Call Virtue Recovery Houston at 866.457.4811 or connect with us online to get started on your path to recovery today.
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Gigi Price holds licenses as a Master Social Worker and Clinical Drug Counselor. She completed her master’s degree in Social Work at Texas State University. Over the last decade, Gigi has been dedicated to utilizing evidence-based practices to enhance patient care and treatment planning, resulting in positive, long-term outcomes for patients and their families. Her passion lies in creating a treatment environment where professionals collaborate to bring about positive change and provide a safe, trustworthy therapeutic experience. Patients can be confident in receiving top-quality care under her leadership.
In her role as the Clinical Director of Virtue Recovery Houston, Gigi conducted research to identify the most effective approaches for treating patients with acute mental health diagnoses, PTSD, and Substance Use Disorder. She then assembled a team of skilled clinicians who could offer various therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
(DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Gigi takes pride in overseeing the development and implementation of Virtue Houston’s Treatment Program, which includes two specialized therapeutic curricula tailored to the unique needs of individuals struggling with mental health issues, addiction, and PTSD.
