Opiate addiction affects tens of millions of people today. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that between 26 and 36 million people abuse opioids worldwide, including those who use analgesics like buprenorphine for pain relief and treatment. If you are related to an opiate addict, consider the following points if you want to help them to recover successfully.
It’s a Problem, Not a “Phase”
You may not suspect that your relative has a “problem” with opiates at all. Some may view their relative’s usage as a “phase” – a temporary experiment they just want to “try out” perhaps with close friends. Remember, experimentation and social use are the first 2 stages of addiction. Like with any medical condition, early detection saves lives and prevents future hardships.
Cut Them Off Before Enabling Them
There is a big difference between support and enabling when it comes to family. If your relative suffers with an opiate addiction, make sure you are not enabling them to practice their addiction. Any type of emotional, physical or financial assistance you offer may indirectly maintain their turbulent lifestyle. It is better to cut them off while encouraging them to get professional help, than to accidently influence their avoiding seeking help. Even if they use buprenorphine as part of a treatment program, be cautious with your support because they may still have a long road ahead to full recovery.
Make the Call for Help if They Won’t
Do not wait for your relative to make the call for help, especially if you know they struggle with an opiate addiction. It does not take very long for an untreated addiction to escalate to a level of chemical dependency, which could eventually lead to overdose or death. There is no time to delay. Reach out to The Drug and Alcohol Detox Clinic of South Mississippi at (601) 261-9101 to learn more about exactly what can be done to get your relative the help he or she needs before it’s too late.
