How to Deal with Addiction to Pain Meds

• 1). Support of family and friends:
  You should always talk with your family and friends about your addiction if you can. Let them know how you are feeling from day to day. Don't be afraid to tell someone if you are struggling with your addiction on a particular day. Addiction is a hard pill to swallow (no pun intended). If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, talk to a close friend and let him talk you through your bad moments.
  
  
• 2). Detox/treatment center:
  There are lots of treatment centers that have the knowledge and expertise to handle drug addictions. Try searching the Internet or getting a referral from your physician. Centers offer options such as inpatient, outpatient and residential treatment. Short-term and long-term stays are also available, depending on what your needs are and how you progress in the program. Also, most insurance programs now pay for drug rehabilitation. Check with your insurance carrier for more information.
  
  
• 3). Therapy:
  There are different types of therapy that can help you overcome addiction. You can ask your regular physician about pain management, holistic or acupuncture therapy. These types of therapy usually start with a detoxification process to treat withdrawal symptoms associated with your addiction. You will also be able to discuss alternative methods and techniques to help end your addiction, therefore replacing the use of narcotics.
  
  
• 4). Addiction/support groups:
  Join a group in which you can share your ordeal with others. It helps if you talk to people that are experiencing the same type of issue you are. To find the resources available to you in your area, call a drug treatment center or get a referral from a physician. Narcotics Anonymous is a well-known support group for people with drug addictions. Take the first step by calling and finding out meeting times. Addictions to pain medications are strong, but you can overcome them with the knowledge and support of those who have gone through the same situation.