Prescription Drug Abuse in Joliet, IL  

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in the United States. The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that 52 million people over the age of 12 admitted to using prescription medications non-medically in their lifetimes. These drugs are frequently prescribed for legitimate medical conditions, but can also have a high potential for addiction. Joliet Drug Rehab Centers offers connections to professional treatment in a quiet region of north-central Illinois for individuals dealing with prescription drug abuse and dependence. With a variety of therapies and skilled staff, Joliet Drug Rehab Centers can help these individuals learn new ways for dealing with stress and emotions so they can live successful lives.

Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

The types of drugs that are commonly abused fall into a number of separate categories:

  • Opiate painkillers – Drugs like OxyContin, Fentanyl, Vicodin and Percocet that are highly effective for managing painful conditions. However, they always have a high risk for addiction because of their euphoric effects. Individuals who abuse opiate painkillers often go on to use heroin, which has a similar effect.
  • Stimulant drugs – Drugs like Adderall and Ritalin are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but they can also be abused for euphoric effects and feelings of confidence and energy.
  • Sedative drugs – Benzodiazepine drugs like Klonopin, Xanax or Valium are used to treat seizures, anxiety and panic disorders. However these drugs are also abused for their calming effects.

Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse and Dependence

Individuals who have fallen into an addiction to prescription drugs generally show a number of characteristic signs:

  • Takes the drugs for nonmedical reasons, long after the medical condition has resolved
  • May “lose” prescriptions, requiring the physician to write additional ones.
  • “Doctor shops” to have other physician write more prescriptions.
  • Steals prescriptions pads or forged prescriptions  
  • Develops a tolerance for the drug and must use increasing amounts
  • Develops changes in personality or mood swings
  • Loses interest in other activities
  • Changes in energy level, ramped up or doped up
  • Problems with finances, relationships, or legal issues
  • Getting Treatment for Prescription Drug Abuse  

When signs of addiction develop, individuals must seek professional treatment to help them regain control over their lives and health. The first step in treatment is detoxification to remove the substance from the body. This process can cause uncomfortable physical and psychological symptoms. Medical detox can provide medications to help reduce the discomfort and cravings that occur. After detox, patients can then begin an individualized treatment program that includes individual and group counseling to gain insights into the reasons behind substance abuse.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help individuals recognize the negative thinking that leads to drug use and how to apply positive behaviors to achieve better outcomes in life. Patients must also learn relapse prevention techniques to learn to recognize the “triggers” that lead to relapse and how to avoid a return to drug use. Developing an aftercare strategy is also part of the treatment program to set up a support system that will help to maintain sobriety when the treatment program has ended.

If you are struggling with a prescription drug problem, contact Joliet Drug Rehab Centers at (779) 333-0829 to discuss treatments that can help you regain control over your life.