5 Top Risk Factors for Opioid Addiction in Columbus

Opioid addiction can kill, so why do people start to use opioids at all? The unfortunate fact is that opioids lead to temporary feelings of wellbeing, and these feelings can lead to addiction. Why do people become addicted to opioids? Here are a few of the most common risk factors.

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1. Health Issues and High Rates of Opioid Painkiller Prescription

How does opioid addiction begin? It usually starts simply, with a back problem, surgery, or other need for painkillers. Access to alternative painkillers is key to preventing opioid addiction. For instance, if a chiropractic visit could replace or complement painkiller use, this could reduce the risk of opioid addiction. Since access is key, areas that have higher unemployment rates, higher levels of disorders such as arthritis and other disabilities, and a higher number of residents without insurance often have higher levels of opioid addiction.

2. Opioids in the Home

Having opioids in the home can encourage risky behaviors, according to a SAMHSA study. Fifty percent of those who are addicted to painkillers get the drugs from friends and family first. Often, people only use a portion of their prescription and stop. Children and teens who see that opioids are in the house may start using them recreationally, particularly if these drugs are not kept in a secure location.

3. Genes Play a Role

Unfortunately, for some people, genes play a role in addiction. Those who have addiction in the family are more likely to become addicted themselves. Men are also more likely to become addicted than women. All that being said, opioids promote a feeling of well-being and can be very addictive to just about anyone, so you should not feel secure even if family members are not addicted.

4. Co-Occurring Disorders Can Make It Easier to Start and Harder to Quit

If you are depressed or anxious, drugs that promote a feeling of well-being are particularly addictive. This is because these drugs make people feel good at first, until they realize that they are feeling the side effects, are addicted, and need more and more of the drug in order to feel good. It can be more difficult to work through rehab if you have anxiety or depression that is untreated, so it is important to connect with support people who can help you manage both your mental and physical health. Other disorders can also play a role in addition according to NewsMax, which states: “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases the risk of addiction as does attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).”

5. Family Challenges Can Influence Addiction

When you are having a hard time in your life, it is tempting to turn to something that will make you feel better. Drug use is associated with difficult times in life, such as loneliness, family difficulties such as divorce, and peer pressure. If you have other risk factors, this could be the factor that tips you into addiction.

What help is available for those who are suffering from substance abuse in Columbus? Luckily, The Recovery Village is an excellent option for Columbus drug rehab. With inpatient and outpatient treatments including aftercare, supported housing, and treatment for co-occurring disorders, we have the skills and experience that you can rely on to support your recovery. Contact us today to learn about admission.