Opiate overdose deaths are currently being classified as an epidemic. This is in part because opiate withdrawal is one of the most difficult types of withdrawal that a person can go through. It is not necessarily deadly but it is extremely painful and unpleasant. Fortunately, there are varieties of things that you can do for opiate withdrawal that can make it a little bit easier.

Recognize the Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of opiate withdrawal is one easy thing you can do. Although sometimes being aware of what is coming is difficult, it can also be comforting. According to the National Library of Medicine, some of the more difficult symptoms are:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Cramping
• Muscle and joint pain
• Diarrhea

Although these symptoms might not seem like much, many of them are severe enough to require hospitalization for relief. For help dealing with these symptoms simply call 888-959-0638.

Recognize that the Symptoms will End Eventually

Opiate withdrawal often causes anxiety and depression.

Just knowing the symptoms is not enough. Sometimes the most comfort is found in knowing that the symptoms only last a few weeks. Most of the severe symptoms peak between 36 and 72 hours and disappear within two weeks.

If you find you have post acute withdrawal symptoms, these can last months but there may be weeks in between reoccurrences. This is a reason why many people seek treatment instead of attempting to go through withdrawal alone.

Find a Treatment that Works for You

Finding the right treatment is one of the best things you can do for opiate withdrawal. Everyone’s body reacts to medications differently so it may take more than one type to get away from your particular addiction.

Taper off Your Opiates

According to the Veteran’s Administration, one way to get off opiates is to taper off them. This means weaning off the opiate slowly to avoid opiate withdrawal. This is best done while in a treatment center or in a doctor’s care. This way is not recommended for those with severe addictions or those that need treatment for chronic pain.

Use Medication Assisted Treatment

Medication assisted treatment is one of the most popular and effective ways to leave opiates behind. Medication assisted treatment may be conducted on an inpatient or outpatient basis. During medication assisted treatment a doctor may prescribe:

• Methadone
• Suboxone
• Buprenorphine
• Clonidine
• Supportive medication

Opiate Withdrawal Treatment Programs

While these medications block withdrawal symptoms, you can start behavioral treatment to correct the behaviors that cause you to use drugs. Several types of behavioral therapy are common when you are in opiate withdrawal. These are:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Contingency management
• Multidimensional family therapy
• Motivational enhancement therapy
• Dialectized therapy

Each type of therapy is modified to suit your individual needs and goals.

Find a Treatment Center

One of the absolute first things you should do for opiate withdrawal is to find a treatment center. The right treatment center can make all the difference when you are recovering from your addiction. We can help you find the treatment center that works best for you, all you have to do is call 888-959-0638.