Menu Close

Recovery Blog

sterling crossroads icon

Start Your Recovery Today

divider

Dangers of Opioid Abuse

young woman leaning against her wall in a dimly lit room conteplating the dangers of opioid abuse

The opioid crisis continues to be a significant health issue affecting communities nationwide, and Mount Sterling, KY, is no exception. The dangers of opioid abuse are profound, impacting individuals, families, and the broader community. It’s important to recognize the signs and seek opioid addiction treatment to combat this growing epidemic.

Sterling Crossroads offers substance use disorder treatment to residents of Mount Sterling and the surrounding Kentucky communities. Call 888.991.1476 today to learn more.

What Are Opioids and Why Are They Dangerous?

Opioids are a class of drugs that include both prescription pain relievers, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, and illegal drugs, like heroin. These substances interact with the brain’s receptors to relieve pain but also produce a sense of euphoria, leading to potential misuse and addiction.

The dangers associated with opioid abuse include:

  • Addiction – Regular use can lead to dependence, where individuals feel unable to function without the substance.
  • Overdose – High doses can suppress breathing, leading to fatal overdoses.
  • Health risks – Long-term abuse can cause severe health issues, including cardiac damage and mental health disorders.
  • Social consequences – Opioid abuse can lead to the deterioration of relationships, job loss, and financial instability.

Opioids are a serious threat to the public health of both rural and urban Americans.

Recognizing the Signs of Opioid Abuse

Understanding and recognizing the signs of opioid abuse can save lives. Key indicators include:

  • Sudden mood swings and changes in behavior
  • Increased secrecy and isolation from family and friends
  • Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
  • Unexplained financial problems or frequent requests for money
  • Physical signs such as drowsiness, weight loss, and poor personal hygiene

Because opioids are often legally prescribed, dependency can be a gradual and insidious process. What begins as taking medication as prescribed can transform into taking it more frequently or in larger doses and ultimately creates a cycle of needing more and more as the addiction and dependency take hold.

The Role of Professional Opioid Addiction Treatment in Mount Sterling, KY

Professional addiction treatment is vital in tackling opioid abuse. We offer comprehensive addiction treatment tailored to individual needs at Sterling Crossroads, located in Mount Sterling, KY. Our approach includes:

  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – Using medications like methadone or buprenorphine to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
  • Therapeutic approaches – Evidence-based therapies such as group therapy to address underlying issues and develop coping strategies.
  • Supportive services – Programs that include topics such as anger management, relapse prevention, and life skills training to foster recovery and personal growth.

At Sterling Crossroads, we understand the complexity of addiction and that everyone’s experience is unique.

Why Choose Sterling Crossroads?

Sterling Crossroads is dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. We believe that restoring individual health contributes to stronger families and communities. Our services include:

  • Outpatient treatment – This structured treatment approach, which includes an intensive outpatient program (IOP) and traditional outpatient treatment, allows patients flexibility to balance recovery with daily life.
  • Community support – We are committed to inspiring change and improving lives, offering support to both individuals and families.

At Sterling Crossroads, we are committed to helping individuals and families affected by opioid abuse.

Contact Sterling Crossroads Today for Hope and Healing

At Sterling Crossroads, we’re here to support you and your family. Overcoming opioid addiction is possible with the proper treatment and support. If you or a loved one needs help, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our compassionate specialists are ready to guide you through your recovery journey, providing the care and resources you need to reclaim your life.

Call 888.991.1476 or contact us online today.