September is National Recovery Month. During this month we celebrate those who are in recovery and those who have helped them. We also support those who are struggling with a substance use disorder (also known as addiction) and may be working towards treatment and recovery.
Addiction is a treatable medical disorder. Addiction occurs when someone’s regular use of drugs or alcohol over a long period of time creates serious, negative changes in their life, and they continue using despite health problems and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home.
When someone uses substances for a long time, the brain gets used to the substance and ends up needing the substance to work. If a person who is dependent on substances, or has a substance use disorder, were to suddenly stop taking it, they would likely experience withdrawal. Withdrawal can be incredibly painful and can make it feel impossible to stop using.
So, how can you recognize the signs of a substance use disorder? Many people are able to hide their addiction from even their closest friends and families. But there are many different ways that an addiction can show up. Here are some signs to look for:
- Strong desire to use drugs.
- Inability to control or reduce use.
- Continued use despite health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school or home.
- Use of larger amounts over time.
- Secretive behavior/disappearing for hours without explanation.
- Nodding off/drowsiness.
- Small pupils (specific to opioid use).
- Slurred speech.
- Weak memory and attention.
- Developing the need to use more to not get sick and/or go into withdrawal.
- Spending a lot of time to get and use drugs.
- High levels of spending and/or frequent need for money.
- Withdrawal symptoms that occur after stopping or reducing opioid use, such as: Negative mood/mood swings, nausea or vomiting, muscle aches, diarrhea, fever, sleep problems.
Dealing with substance use disorder yourself, or having a loved one with an addiction, can be a scary experience. But you are not alone — there are many treatment resources out there, and people to help. Lift The Label tells the stories of people in the community who have overcome addiction themselves. Many of them have become advocates for removing stigma from addiction and getting help. You can learn more about their stories and about treatment resources at LTLSouthernUte.org.
The Southern Ute Behavioral Health Office is a huge support system itself and provides many different treatment services. Call 970-563-5700 for more information, and to schedule an appointment. Addiction is treatable, and recovery is always possible. Your support and compassion can make a huge difference in someone finding treatment and recovery.