OPIATE INTERVENTION

National Intervention Services

OPIATE INTERVENTION

National Intervention Services

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Opiate Intervention

An opiate is any medication or illegal substance that derives from the opium poppy or that mimics opiate effects. Opiates are often prescribed to help alleviate pain for individuals who are experiencing acute physical pain. Opiates are not recommended for chronic pain. If used for an extended period of time, the user can develop tolerance, then dependence and become physically addicted to the opiate and an increased need for more of the drug.

Examples of commonly abused opiates include the following:

Oxycontin (Oxycodone HCL)

Heroin

Vicodin (Hydrocodone)

Suboxone

Methadone

Morphine

Fentanyl

Codeine

Opium

Percocet

If there is someone in your life who is struggling with opiate use disorder, an intervention may be the very thing they need to realize the extent of their addiction and seek the support they need to break the cycle. If you or someone you know requires an intervention, contact our office today at (312) 625-0024. Our intervention counselors are ready to listen, provide support, and answer any questions you have.

Types of Opiate Interventions

There are generally two types of interventions performed for those addicted to opiates: an intervention for intermittent users whose dependency has reached the level of addiction, and pain management users. While there is some overlap in intervention methodologies, there are subtle differences in the type of intervention supports provided.

Most cases of opiate intervention that we perform are for individuals who began taking opiates intermittently, but over time became physically addicted as a result of tolerance and dependence to the opiate they began using daily. Users who have reached this level are 60% more likely to become IV users within the next three years, which is why it is so important to intervene before your loved one reaches this point. Fortunately, opiate addicts have one of the highest success rates of breaking their addiction following an intervention, provided the individual began using the opiate for recreational purposes and not for pain management.

Opiate addicts who began taking opiates to alleviate pain (joint aches, pulled muscles, following surgery) can be much more difficult to engage with in an intervention because they believe to have a “legitimate reasons” for using opiates. The difficult part of responding to this argument is that it is not necessarily wrong. Because the body gradually increases its tolerance to opiates, the pain that the opiate was relieving will no longer be sufficient, which is why they begin taking more opiates and how they develop an addiction without even realizing it. Our intervention counselors are trained to anticipate and address these counterarguments to help your loved one see past their own denial and agree to seek treatment. Opiates are recommended for acute pain, not for chronic conditions for this reason.

What to Expect During the Opiate Intervention

The intervention process will vary contingent on the drug of choice, though most drug interventions consist of a 2-3-day process. First the clinically trained interventionist speaks with the concerned party to gather information. After initial call, should both parties agree to move forward a customized intervention plan will develop, including but not limited to: who should be involved, where and when the intervention should occur.

Time will be dedicated to prepare the family for the intervention, providing education on the predictable, progressive, chronic disease of addiction. We will also discuss how to practice setting clear boundaries, to support your loved one – though no longer support the addiction.

If the intervention is successful and the addict agrees to accept treatment, they will be transported to the predetermined treatment center as soon as possible. If your loved one refuses to seek treatment, those involved will have no choice but to accept their refusal, and follow through on boundaries established during the intervention process.

Withdrawal Symptoms Following the Opiate Intervention

Although withdrawal from opiates is not life threatening, it may feel like death would be a relief. Symptoms may include, but not limited to:

Anxiety

Restlessness

Sleeplessness

Muscle aches

Severe discomfort

Nausea

Flu-like symptoms

Because of the intense withdrawal effects that can occur following cessation of opiate use, an essential part of the intervention process is to have a system in place to support your loved one during this period and make sure medical care is available if necessary.

Help is Just a Phone Call Away

Staging a drug intervention for your loved one can be a difficult decision to make, but it is important to remember that this intervention can mean the difference between life and death. It is also important to remember that a drug intervention is not just for the wellbeing of the addict, it is also for the wellbeing of you and everyone in your loved one’s life.

Whether you are struggling drug addiction or seeking guidance and support for someone you know, we are committed to providing you and your loved one with the care and support you need. For additional information about support for overcoming drug addiction, please contact us today at (312) 625-0024. Help is just a phone call away.

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Regardless of the type of intervention services you are seeking, our team is ready to provide a highly structured, comprehensive intervention approach. We pride ourselves on designing interventions that help families start the journey towards healing. Whether you or a loved one are suffering, we are here to support you. 

Our approach is aimed at helping clients and their families understand the impact that their condition has on their lives. We are committed to ensuring that everyone in our care receives the support and compassion needed to make changes in their lives. 

If you are in need of counseling services, our team of professionals is ready to provide a safe, supportive environment to help you address your substance use or mental health disorder. At AR Intervention, we are committed to ensuring you receive the care and support to begin your recovery journey. We understand that recovery may seem impossible at times. However, there is always hope for a brighter future free of addiction. Our counselors are ready to listen, provide support, and answer any questions you may have. Start your journey with us today!