Teen girl looking at two prescription bottles in a bathroom

Overcoming Opioid Addiction with Holistic Treatment at Embark Recovery

At Embark Recovery, we understand that addiction extends beyond alcohol and illegal drugs. Our residential treatment center is committed to providing comprehensive addiction treatment, including addressing opioid dependence, through a holistic approach.

Doctor tearing prescription from pad

Understanding Opioids

An opioid is a class of drugs that includes both natural and synthetic substances. These drugs are known for their pain-relieving (analgesic) properties, which are achieved by interacting with opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system. Opioids are commonly prescribed for pain management, particularly for moderate to severe pain that is not adequately controlled by other medications.

There are three primary categories of opioids:

  • 1

    Natural Opioids: These opioids are derived from the opium poppy plant. Examples include morphine and codeine.

  • 2

    Semi-Synthetic Opioids: These opioids are chemically modified from natural opioids. Examples include oxycodone, hydrocodone, and heroin (which is synthesized from morphine).

  • 3

    Fully Synthetic Opioids: These opioids are entirely synthesized in a laboratory and do not occur naturally. Examples include opioids, methadone, and tramadol.

Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body called opioid receptors. When opioids attach to these receptors, they block pain signals sent from the body to the brain, thereby reducing the perception of pain.

In addition to their pain-relieving effects, opioids can also produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and sedation, which can contribute to their potential for misuse and addiction. Prolonged use or misuse of opioids can lead to physical dependence, tolerance (requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects), and addiction.

Due to their potential for abuse and addiction, opioids are tightly regulated and prescribed cautiously by healthcare providers. It’s essential for individuals using opioids to follow their prescribed dosage and duration, as well as to be aware of the risks associated with opioid use, including overdose and respiratory depression.

Older man looks at many prescriptions in a medicine cabinet

Scope of Opioid Use

The scope of opioid use, misuse, and its associated consequences has become a significant public health concern globally. Here are some key aspects of the scope of opioid use:

Opioid use is widespread across various demographics and geographic regions. Both prescription opioids and illicit opioids contribute to the prevalence of opioid use. Prescription opioids are commonly used for pain management, while illicit opioids like heroin and opioid are often abused for their euphoric effects.
Opioids are prescribed by healthcare providers to manage pain resulting from various conditions, including injuries, surgeries, and chronic illnesses such as cancer. While opioids can be effective in relieving pain when used appropriately, there is a risk of dependence and addiction with prolonged use.
Non-medical or recreational use of opioids involves taking opioids without a prescription or in a manner not prescribed by a healthcare provider. This includes using opioids to experience euphoria, relaxation, or to self-medicate for emotional distress. Non-medical use of opioids significantly contributes to the opioid epidemic.
Opioid misuse refers to using opioids in a way other than prescribed, such as taking higher doses, taking opioids prescribed for someone else, or using opioids for non-medical purposes. Misuse can lead to physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction, characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.
Opioid overdose is a severe consequence of opioid misuse and addiction. Opioid overdoses can result in respiratory depression, coma, and death. The opioid epidemic has led to a dramatic increase in opioid-related overdose deaths worldwide, including deaths from prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids like opioid.
The opioid epidemic has far-reaching consequences that affect individuals, families, healthcare systems, law enforcement, and communities as a whole. Communities face challenges related to addiction treatment, overdose prevention, stigma, and social and economic burdens associated with opioid misuse.
Suffering man with his hands on his head

Recognizing Dangers of Opioids

Recognizing the dangers of opioids is essential for individuals, healthcare providers, and communities to address the risks associated with opioid use. Here are some key points to consider:

Opioids, including prescription painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and illicit drugs like heroin, have a high potential for addiction. Even when used as prescribed, opioids can lead to physical dependence and addiction, characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.
Opioid overdose is a severe and potentially fatal consequence of opioid use. Opioids suppress the central nervous system, leading to slowed breathing, decreased heart rate, and loss of consciousness. Overdose risk increases when opioids are misused, combined with other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines, or when potency varies, as seen with illicitly manufactured opioid.
Prolonged use of opioids can lead to physical dependence, where the body requires increasingly higher doses of opioids to achieve the same effects. Dependence can also lead to withdrawal symptoms when opioid use is reduced or stopped abruptly. Psychological dependence, characterized by cravings and emotional reliance on opioids, can also develop.
With continued opioid use, individuals may develop tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same level of pain relief or euphoria. Tolerance increases the risk of overdose and can contribute to escalating opioid use and addiction.
Opioid use can lead to a range of adverse health effects, including respiratory depression, constipation, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, and impaired judgment. Long-term opioid use is associated with an increased risk of opioid-related disorders, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal issues, and hormonal imbalances.
Opioid use can exacerbate mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Chronic opioid use may also impair cognitive function, memory, and emotional regulation, contributing to mental health challenges.
Opioid addiction can have devastating social and economic consequences for individuals, families, and communities. It can strain relationships, lead to unemployment, financial hardship, legal problems, and homelessness. The societal burden of opioid addiction includes healthcare costs, lost productivity, and increased demands on social services and criminal justice systems.

Recognizing these dangers underscores the importance of comprehensive approaches to opioid misuse prevention, including patient education, responsible prescribing practices, access to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders, overdose prevention strategies, and community support services. By raising awareness and promoting safer opioid use practices, individuals and communities can reduce the harms associated with opioid misuse and addiction.

man looking depressed as his wife kisses his head

Signs of Opioid Addiction

Recognizing signs of opioid misuse can help identify individuals who may be struggling with opioid addiction or dependence. Here are some common signs to look out for:

  • Increased secrecy or isolation

  • Withdrawal from social activities or hobbies

  • Mood swings or irritability

  • Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleep)

  • Unexplained absences from work, school, or social gatherings

  • Constricted pupils (small pupils), even in dim lighting

  • Noticeable drowsiness or sedation

  • Slurred speech or impaired coordination

  • Changes in appetite or weight loss

  • Unexplained bruises, needle marks, or track lines on arms (for intravenous drug use)

  • Anxiety or agitation

  • Increased sensitivity to pain

  • Confusion or disorientation

  • Poor decision-making or impaired judgment

  • Hallucinations or delusions (in severe cases)

  • Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home

  • Financial difficulties or borrowing money frequently

  • Relationship problems, conflicts, or distancing from family and friends

  • Legal issues related to drug possession, theft, or driving under the influence

  • Respiratory problems or shallow breathing

  • Gastrointestinal issues such as constipation or nausea

  • Frequent headaches or unexplained chronic pain

  • Increased susceptibility to infections or illnesses

  • Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to obtain prescriptions)

  • Faking or exaggerating symptoms to obtain opioids

  • Running out of prescription medications early

  • Seeking opioids from illegal sources or through illicit means

  • Flu-like symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, chills)

  • Muscle aches and pains

  • Anxiety, restlessness, or irritability

  • Insomnia or sleep disturbances

  • Strong cravings for opioids

It’s important to note that the presence of these signs doesn’t necessarily confirm opioid misuse or addiction. However, if you notice several of these signs occurring together or over time, it may indicate a problem that requires intervention and support. Encouraging open communication, offering support, and connecting individuals to appropriate resources for assessment and treatment are crucial steps in addressing opioid misuse and promoting recovery.

Smiling group of men holding hands in a meeting

Opioid Addiction Treatment at Embark Recovery

Embark Recovery offers comprehensive treatment for opioid addiction, recognizing each client’s unique journey to recovery. Our approach begins with Inpatient Treatment followed by tailored treatment modalities to address physical, mental, and emotional aspects of addiction.

Inpatient Services

Following detox, inpatient residential treatment offers clients a supportive environment for comprehensive recovery. With round-the-clock care, individualized treatment plans, and therapeutic activities, inpatient services provide a focused pathway towards sobriety, shielded from external triggers.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Our outpatient services, including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs), cater to clients balancing recovery with daily commitments. Transitioning from inpatient care, IOPs offer structured treatment while allowing clients to resume aspects of their routine.

Therapeutic Modalities

At Embark Recovery, various therapeutic modalities are employed to address both mental health and substance use disorders. Some of the therapies offered include:

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • SMART Recovery
  • Creative Arts
  • Mindfulness
  • Faith-Based Counseling
  • Anger Management

Family Therapy

We recognize the importance of familial support in the recovery process and offer family therapy to address relational dynamics, promote healing, and strengthen familial bonds fractured by addiction.

Co-Occurring Disorder Care

Many clients grapple with co-occurring mental health disorders alongside addiction. Our holistic approach integrates treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder, addressing the root causes of addiction while fostering healthy coping mechanisms.

Two unrecognizable people holding hands

Why Choose Embark Recovery?

Embark Recovery stands out as a premier drug and alcohol rehabilitation center in Prescott, Arizona, offering unparalleled support for Addiction Recovery since 2013. With a foundation built by individuals who have overcome addiction themselves, this state-licensed and nationally accredited facility prioritizes patient-centric treatment, providing a welcoming family atmosphere, individualized therapy programs, and evidence-based treatment plans in a serene setting.

The center’s approach extends beyond traditional therapy by preparing patients for real-world challenges, including employment readiness, financial education, and fostering healthy relationships, ensuring a holistic recovery journey.

Embark’s clinical team, all holding master’s level education and extensive experience in substance abuse and behavioral health treatment, along with strong partnerships with Residential Services Providers, ensures a safe, nurturing environment. This commitment to excellence is further enhanced by regular family involvement, weekly clinical psychiatrist visits, and voluntary participation in outdoor activities, promoting a positive peer culture and a comprehensive path to recovery.

Understanding the financial hurdles of treatment, Embark Recovery offers 24/7 admissions support to navigate these challenges, truly setting an industry standard for care and service.