Over half a million Australians are dependent on prescription painkillers, with addiction commencing in less than 2 weeks of regular use.
Prescription medication addiction often begins after someone is prescribed prescription pain relief following an accident or injury.
There are a number of prescription medications that can become addictive, including prescription painkillers, prescription tranquillisers (anti-anxiety), prescription sleeping pills, prescription stimulants (for ADHD) and prescription antidepressants.
Prescription painkiller addiction and withdrawal can be dangerous, and it is important for family members and friends to help those with the addiction to receive treatment.
Painkillers are as addictive and lethal as illicit drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin. Prolonged use can create physiological and psychological dependency.
It is important for family members and friends to help those with an addiction receive treatment.
Untreated prescription medication addiction is dangerous and leaves the individual at risk for worse side effects than they would experience from the original prescription medication alone. It also increases the risk of death from overdose as well as damage to organs such as the liver.
Prescribed and non-prescribed medications cause addiction, behavioural changes and side effects, all of which can be managed and treated.
Painkiller misuse and dependency can have devastating consequences on your physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing.
Anxiety, depression, mood swings, suicidal thoughts and psychosis.
Coordination difficulties, brain fog, memory loss, confusion and disorientation.
Insomnia, irregular pulse, nausea, loss of appetite.
Unable to speak with loved ones. Secretive behaviour.
Loss of job or poor performance.
Doctor shopping and black market for medications.
Our supportive team works with you to understand and evaluate your current painkiller needs and whether you have reached a point of reliance.
From here we work with you to safely taper use, identify and address underlying causes of misuse and achieve long-lasting recovery. No two programs are alike however all include an emphasis on mental health and physical wellbeing working hand in hand with improving relationships and building emotional resilience.
