What is Opioid or Prescription Painkiller Addiction?

An addiction to prescription opioids or painkillers is a medical condition defined by not being able to stop using opioids and allowing that opioid use to interfere with daily life. Being physically dependent on an opioid can be characterized by withdrawal symptoms such as cravings and sweating.

However, a person can misuse opioids and not have physical dependence. When a person has physical dependence, it can be extremely hard to stop taking opioids and that dependence can greatly interfere with personal relationships or finances.

Signs of Addiction to Prescription Opioids

Someone who is addicted to painkillers or opioids may experience the following:

• Inability to control opioid use
• Uncontrollable cravings
• Drowsiness
• Changes in sleep habits
• Weight loss
• Frequent flu-like symptoms
• Decreased libido
• Lack of hygiene
• Changes in exercise habits
• Isolation from family or friends
• Stealing from family, friends or businesses
• New financial difficulties

This list does not include every sign and symptom of addiction to painkillers or prescription opioids. However, if you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms to any degree, please contact a professional.

Treatment for Opioid Drug Addiction

How Long is an Opioid Addiction Rehab Program?

The length of a treatment program for an opioid or prescription drug addiction is dependent on the individual patient and treatment plan prescribed. Factors such as history of abuse, professional license or court-ordered requirements, co-occurring disorders, and other conditions may also be considered. A typical inpatient or residential stay could be anywhere from 10 to 30 days, with Long-Term or Extended Care rehab programs being longer.

What Can Be Expected from an Opioid Addiction Treatment Program?

Evaluating the type of care and services needed is a critical step in the early stages of treating an addiction to prescription opioids or painkillers. A thorough assessment will ensure that the course of treatment adequately addresses the patient’s needs.

Bradford’s caring professional staff will ask some critical and detailed questions to learn the patient’s abuse history and also determine possible sources of support during and after treatment.

While in treatment at Bradford, our patients learn about the 12 Steps and begin working through them. They also start attending 12-Step meetings. We help patients discover the value of getting a sponsor who can help them, post treatment, gain experience working through each of the Steps.

What Does an Opioid Addiction Treatment Program Cost?

One of the most frequently asked questions from those seeking treatment for addiction to opioids or painkillers is: “How much will this cost?”

Paying for treatment is often less of a barrier than many people think. Our programs are in-network with most insurance providers and plans such as Veterans Choice Program (VCP), TRICARE, and TennCare.

Private pay, or paying out of pocket, is another option. Most addiction treatment facilities, such as Bradford, offer flexibility in paying through payment plans or via a loan.

In some areas, recovery non-profit groups, religious organizations, or government agencies may provide grants to attend a rehab program to those who qualify.

Programs at Bradford

Bradford Health Services offers treatment programs at all levels of care for prescription opioid addiction. Our team of highly-qualified professionals provide a comprehensive approach to address each the unique physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of each patient.

We offer:

• Medical detox and stabilization available 24/7
• Inpatient or residential, outpatient, extended care, and continuing care programs
• Access to our free Family Program
• Long-term and transitional living programs
• Specialty programs for those in healthcare, military and veterans, and legal fields
• State-of-the-art tools and methods for addressing trauma
• Treatment based on proven medical, clinical and 12-Step principles