Fentanyl addiction is a growing health concern throughout the United States. According to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, “Utah is particularly affected by prescription opioids, which are responsible for 38% of the unintentional and undetermined drug poisoning deaths in the state, although illicit opioids, specifically fentanyl, are increasing more rapidly.” Painted Desert Recovery provides women with essential addiction recovery resources and treatment services. Clinicians help clients heal from fentanyl addiction and build a healthy foundation for a sober future.

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a prescription medication primarily used to relieve chronic pain. The drug is a highly addictive synthetic opioid and up to 100 times more potent than morphine. Illicit versions of the drug are sold on the street. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Some drug dealers are mixing fentanyl with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA.” Abusing fentanyl is highly dangerous and may result in severe illness, injury, or death. “This is especially risky when people taking drugs don’t realize they might contain fentanyl as a cheap but dangerous additive.”

Some forms of prescription fentanyl include:

• Actiq
• Duragesic
• Sublimaze

Most overdose deaths are caused by illegally made and distributed fentanyl.

Risk Factors for Fentanyl Addiction

The risk factors for developing fentanyl addiction include:

• Chronic pain or other chronic health conditions
• Misusing prescription fentanyl
• Chronic stress
• Mental health disorders
• Family history of substance abuse
• Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
• Trauma

The risk factors vary slightly for prescription and illegally produced fentanyl. For example, multigenerational drug abuse may play a more significant role in the development of illegal fentanyl addiction.

Signs of Fentanyl Addiction

Fentanyl abuse has a direct effect on a person’s physical and mental health. People display distinct changes in behavior and temperament when under the influence of fentanyl or other addictive drugs. Substance abuse significantly impacts relationships and family dynamics. Early intervention and treatment is the best way to avoid severe side effects.

Some potential signs of fentanyl addiction include:

• Changes in appetite
• Uncharacteristic agitation or irritation
• Anxiety
• Irregular heartbeat
• Sleep disturbances
• Mood swings
• Changes in energy level

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), “Similar to other opioid analgesics, fentanyl produces effects such as relaxation, euphoria, pain relief, sedation, confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention, pupillary constriction, and respiratory depression.” Some people may experience rare physical side effects, including swelling or bloating, itching or numbness, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. The effects depend on the type of fentanyl and dose.

How Does Fentanyl Addiction Impact Relationships?

Fentanyl addiction affects all members of a family unit. The symptoms and side effects have the potential to cause physical, legal, financial, and mental health issues for loved ones. Painted Desert Recovery helps clients and their families better understand the effects of fentanyl addiction and provides referrals, education, and resources to people in recovery. Personalized care plans ensure all clients receive the support they need to repair and strengthen relationships impacted by fentanyl abuse.

Treatment Options at Painted Desert Recovery

People recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) face multiple challenges. Painted Desert Recovery helps women heal from fentanyl addiction by providing a safe and welcoming space where they can work through the underlying issues causing the addictive behaviors. Clinicians use trauma-informed therapy and other evidence-based methods.

Some of the treatment modalities and services offered at Painted Desert Recovery include:

• Case management
• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Support groups
• Peer engagement through community activities
• Family therapy
• Aftercare planning
• Skill development
• Alternative holistic therapies

People in treatment learn to manage their condition and cope with everyday stressors effectively. Studies have shown that treatment programs “normalize or improve the treated individual’s overall health, longevity, and psychological well-being.” The care team collaborates with clients and their loved ones to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Treating Dual Diagnosis

Many people who abuse fentanyl have co-occurring chronic health issues causing physical pain or emotional distress. Treatment programs must address dual diagnosis to reduce the risk of relapse. Painted Desert Recovery offers personalized care to ensure clients have the level of support they need to achieve sobriety successfully and manage co-occurring health issues. Clinicians take into account personal and cultural preferences to increase the effectiveness of treatment for SUD and co-occurring conditions.

How to Support a Loved One Struggling With Fentanyl Addiction

Friends and family show their support by actively participating in family therapy and other services designed to improve family relationships. Many people benefit from having the support and encouragement of their loved ones during the early stages of recovery.

Individuals support loved ones in recovery by doing the following:

• Providing motivation and inspiration
• Holding loved ones accountable for their choices
• Providing practical support, including transport to medical appointments
• Being compassionate and empathetic

The involvement of loved ones in the recovery process can significantly reduce the risk of relapse and help women heal more quickly from the effects of substance abuse. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for helping a family member who is drinking too much, using drugs, or dealing with a mental illness, research shows that family support can play a major role in helping a loved one with mental and substance use disorders.” Often, the family bond provides comfort, strength, and motivation for people in recovery.

Painted Desert Recovery uses evidence-based treatments, including psychotherapy and prescription medications, to provide people with the support they need to overcome fentanyl addiction and build a healthier life. The care team works with clients and families to reduce the damage caused by fentanyl addiction. To learn more about our programs and services, call our office today at (844) 540-0353.