Fentanyl: Understanding
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times
more potent than morphine.
Because of its potency, even small amounts of fentanyl can cause severe harm or death. It is often used medically as a pain reliever for cancer patients and as an anesthetic during surgery. However, it is also frequently abused as a recreational drug, and its potency makes it extremely dangerous.
Fentanyl is often added to other drugs, such as heroin and cocaine, without the user’s knowledge, which can lead to an increased risk of overdose and death. The rapid onset and intense high associated with Fentanyl use to make it a popular drug of abuse, but it can also be extremely deadly.
Symptoms of Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl abuse can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
Drowsiness &
fatigue
Nausea &
vomiting
Confusion &
disorientation
Constricted pupils
Respiratory
depression
Coma & death
(in severe cases)
Hazards of Fentanyl
There were over 70,000 overdose deaths from fentanyl and synthetic opioids in 2021, according to the Center for Disease Control. The opioid epidemic is devastating, relentless, and seemingly everywhere. It touches every American family deeply and personally. Here are some of the specific hazards that fentanyl abuse can bring:
#1
Overdose: Fentanyl is highly toxic, and even a small amount can cause an overdose. Overdose symptoms of fentanyl can include extreme drowsiness, shallow or slow breathing, blue or purple skin or lips, and cold, clammy skin. A fentanyl overdose can be fatal, and it’s important to take prompt action if you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose.
#2
Addiction: Fentanyl is highly addictive, and repeated use can lead to physical and psychological dependence. People who struggle with fentanyl addiction often experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit, including nausea, vomiting, and muscle aches.
#3
Health problems: Fentanyl use can cause a range of health problems, including damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Long-term use of fentanyl can also weaken the immune system and make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections.
#4
Increased risk of infectious disease: People who use fentanyl intravenously are at increased risk of contracting infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. This is because they may share needles with others, or use unsanitary injection techniques.
#5
Interactions with other drugs: Fentanyl can interact with other drugs, including alcohol and other opioids, to increase the risk of overdose. This can be especially dangerous if the person is unaware of the increased risk.
Overcoming addiction to heroin is one of the most rewarding things a person can do for themselves. By taking the next step towards sobriety, you can start the process of building a better future for yourself. Remember that recovery is a journey, not a destination and that setbacks are a normal part of the process. With determination and support, you can overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.
Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction at Paramount Wellness
Retreat in Connecticut
At our drug and alcohol recovery campus in Connecticut, we understand the dangers of Fentanyl abuse and are committed to helping individuals overcome their addiction. Our comprehensive treatment programs are designed to address the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of Fentanyl abuse.
Our team of experienced professionals provides a range of services, including:
- Medically supervised detox helps individuals safely and comfortably withdraw from the drug.
- Therapy and counseling to address the underlying psychological and emotional issues that may have contributed to addiction.
- Support groups and aftercare services to provide ongoing support as individuals transition back to their daily lives.
Paramount Wellness Retreat’s Integrated
Care Approach
Recovering from fentanyl addiction can be a challenging and complex process, but there are many best practices and groundbreaking techniques that a drug and alcohol recovery campus can implement to help people achieve and maintain recovery. Here are a few that are effective:
#1
Medically-assisted treatment: (MAT) involves the use of medication, such as methadone or buprenorphine, to help people manage their withdrawal symptoms and cravings. MAT is effective in reducing the risk of overdose and helping people achieve and maintain recovery.
#2
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that can help people address the underlying psychological and behavioral issues that contribute to their addiction. CBT can help people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, and develop the skills and strategies needed to maintain their recovery.
#3
Dialectical-Behavior Therapy: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy that can be used to support recovery from fentanyl addiction. DBT can help individuals in recovery by teaching them skills to manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and by providing them with a supportive and structured environment to practice these skills.
#4
Mindfulness-based therapies: mindfulness meditation and yoga can help people reduce stress and increase their ability to manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms. These therapies can also help people improve their overall well-being and enhance their ability to participate in other aspects of their recovery program.
#5
Family and group therapy: Family and group therapy can be extremely beneficial for people recovering from fentanyl addiction. Family therapy can help repair relationships and improve communication, while group therapy can provide a supportive and empowering community of peers who are also in recovery.
#6
Ongoing support: Ongoing support is an essential component of a successful recovery program. This may include regular individual and group therapy, support groups, and participation in recreational and social activities.
#7
Complementary Evidence-based Modalities and holistic therapies: Alternative and holistic therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and art therapy, can help people manage their withdrawal symptoms, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. These therapies can also enhance the effectiveness of traditional addiction treatments.
Contact Our Team to Start Recovery Today
Our drug and alcohol recovery campus implements these best practices and groundbreaking techniques to create a comprehensive and effective recovery program that meets the unique needs of each person. By offering a range of evidence-based treatments and therapies, and by providing ongoing support and resources, a drug and alcohol recovery campus can help people achieve and maintain a successful recovery from fentanyl addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Fentanyl addiction, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our restorative treatment programs and how we can support you on the road to recovery.
All of the substances we treat:
Alcohol
Heroin
Fentanyl
Cocaine
Opioids/Opiates
Adderall
Benzodiazepines
Methamphetamines
Ketamine
Spice/K2
Flakka / Bath Salts
LSD / Psilocybin / Hallucinogens
Kratom
DMT
Cannabis / Weed / Synthetic Cannabis