Opioids are some of the most commonly abused substances in the United States. They are a kind of drug that acts on the opioid receptors in your brain to block feelings of pain. There are prescription opioids, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and others that are prescribed to treat acute pain. This can include post-surgery or injury symptoms, chronic pain, and cancer treatments. While prescription opioids are effective in providing pain management and relief, they also have a high potential for abuse and addiction. In addition to prescription drugs, there are street opioids, including heroin and fentanyl, that have a reputation for being dangerous. Regardless of whether they are prescription or illicit opioids, abuse can wreak havoc on more than just your physical well-being. Opioid addiction and mental health go hand-in-hand, too.

When someone struggles with opioid abuse, they can easily become physically and psychologically dependent. This makes quitting challenging and makes trying to detox by yourself nearly impossible. It is not uncommon for individuals with an opioid addiction to also struggle with a co-occurring mental health condition. At California Centers for Recovery, we provide dual diagnosis treatment in Los Angeles to help clients heal their mental health and overcome addiction.

Understanding the Connection Between Opioid Addiction and Mental Health

When someone struggles with opioid addiction, they are often dealing with underlying issues. There is a strong connection between opioid addiction and mental health problems. In some cases, people have an untreated or undiagnosed mental health condition and self-medicate with substances to cope with symptoms. They may experience temporary relief, but continued drug abuse will only lead to further complications. It is also possible for individuals with an opioid addiction to develop a mental health condition. Depression can be typical because opioids are a central nervous system depressant and can lead to depressive symptoms.

Some of the signs that someone is living with opioid addiction and mental health issues are:

• Extreme mood swings
• Persistent feelings of worry
• Social withdrawal from friends and family members
• Intense feelings of despair, hopelessness, and worthlessness that do not go away
• Difficulty keeping up with family obligations or work responsibilities
• Developing insomnia or other sleep issues
• Relationship problems

When someone is dealing with opioid addiction and mental health issues, they should seek a dual diagnosis treatment program. Individuals receive professional treatment for both conditions, which fosters physical and mental healing. Addressing both conditions is crucial for lasting recovery and maintaining sobriety.

The Effects of Opioid Abuse

The effects of opioid abuse are severe and can cause significant health complications. A professional detox and rehab program is essential for safe and successful recovery. Without proper medical attention and support, an individual puts their health, safety, and overall well-being at risk.

Some of the physical and mental side effects of opioid abuse are:

• Chronic constipation
• Slowed or irregular breathing
• Heart rhythm abnormalities
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Overdose

When struggling with the effects of opioid abuse, it can feel hopeless, especially when dealing with mental health problems. Co-occurring disorders are not easy to treat because the two conditions can enhance each other in negative ways. However, help is available, and recovery is possible.

Get Started with Dual Diagnosis Treatment at California Centers for Recovery

If you are dealing with opioid addiction and poor mental health, our dedicated team can offer the support you need. We can tailor our treatments and programs to fit each client’s needs. In addition to our dual diagnosis treatment program, we also provide clients with the following programs and services:

• Detox programs
• Residential treatment
• Luxury rehab
• Men’s rehab program
• Women’s rehab program
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Holistic healing
• 12-step treatment

Contact us online or by calling 877.328.5682 for more information and to get started on your path to a brighter and healthier future.