Opioid addiction has become a major problem in the U.S. and it’s important for people to become more informed. You should learn the main signs of opioid addiction. Doing so will help you learn when a loved one is struggling so you can help them find help.

What Are Opioids?

Opioids are a type of drug that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. They are most commonly prescribed to patients with chronic pain. Opioids are derived from the opium poppy plant. In addition to prescription opioids, there are also illegal varieties including heroin.

Habits are powerful. They can either be healthy or destructive. With a little determination and a great deal of prayer, those who are overcoming addiction are much more likely to remain clean by sticking to a few healthy routines. The key to forming habits is to set SMART expectations: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. And the more you declare your goals and intentions publically, the more likely you will be to succeed.

The summer months are typically when people party hard and let loose. For many young adults, the end of summer signifies returning to school or work and returning to the grind. However, for those addicted to drugs, the party lifestyle may continue for a few weeks before they feel lonely and isolated.

One of the reasons why addicts may find themselves feeling worse in the fall and winter months is because of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that becomes more pronounced in winter.

Going through a drug or alcohol detox can be extremely hard on your body and brain. It can also put you on an emotional roller coaster that you may not want to share. When you’re going through detox, however, you should definitely have someone available to monitor you and call for help if you are in danger.

Environment

Detoxing from any drug can leave you feeling nauseous and may lead to severe mood swings, violent outbursts or even death. Some drugs require a week to 10 days for effective detox to be complete, and your water intake and nutrition must be top-notch to prevent dangerous withdrawal symptoms. You may feel the need for multiple daily showers due to perspiration, and your sleep will be disrupted. You’ll find that a room with dark blinds will help you rest.

The long-awaited football season has arrived, and though it’s an exciting time for football fans across the country, if you’re in recovery, you may be tackling some mixed feelings about the season. The thought of not drinking on game day is sure to spark some feelings of worry and anxiety no matter how much time you have.

For years sporting events have been largely associated with the consumption of alcohol and football is no exception. From tailgates, to stadiums, to bars, and even your own home, the pressure to drink while cheering on your favorite team is prevalent.

You may be dating an alcoholic and not realize it until their habit becomes more detrimental to your relationship. On the other hand, you might be suspicious. You have a feeling that your partner’s drinking has gone a little too far, or they are spending more time drinking or recovering from drinking than sober.

Alcoholism is a progressive disease that can happen to anyone, so if you believe you are dating someone with a drinking problem, do not wait to get help.