For many newly clean addicts, relapse is a risk that is potentially life threatening. Setbacks and even relapse are often part of the recovery process. Those in early recovery could be risking more than their sobriety with a relapse, especially when opioids (heroin, oxycontin) are involved. The risk of overdose is especially high among newly clean addicts and can lead to serious injury or death.
The Early Days of Recovery
The weeks immediately following a residential or intensive outpatient recovery program are usually the most difficult for any addict. The stress of returning to normal life is a huge catalyst for cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. Thoughts of obtaining and using drugs can be constantly at the forefront of your mind. Many addicts think that using just one time will take the edge off, and then they can get back on track after that. The problem is that even one time can be devastating to your newly clean body and mind.
Healing and Tolerance
Addiction is a disease that causes physical damage to the brain, but fortunately, it has a surprising propensity for healing. Once the brain is free from drugs and alcohol, it begins to repair itself instantly. Being clean for even two weeks will allow your brain to heal dramatically, breaking its dependence on drugs to function “normally.” As your brain heals, your tolerance for your drug of choice decreases, making you once again sensitive to its effects. This is a great sign that you’re getting better, but it also puts you at risk for a dangerous overdose.
Many addicts who relapse following rehab administer the same dose of drugs that they were using before beginning recovery; this amount may be more than the brain can handle now that tolerance has gone down. This can lead to a very dangerous overdose, which can be life threatening. Overdose is one of the leading causes of death among addicts, and it often occurs during a relapse after a period of recovery.
Opioids and Naltrexone
An opioid addiction is the most life threatening in terms of overdose and relapse; this class of drugs causes a cessation of breathing when too much is present in the body. Researchers have worked hard to find a way to protect recovering addicts from death by opioid overdose and have developed a helpful prescription medication called Naltrexone that can help. Naltrexone (Vivitrol) blocks opioids from having access to receptors in the brain, protecting your healing mind from this dangerous drug. This can save your life in a moment of weakness. Working closely with a medically supported recovery program can give you access to this and other life saving recovery tools.
Viewing Yourself as “The One”
As you embark on a newly clean and sober life, your self-perspective is the most important life-saving tool you have at your disposal. Most addicts don’t intend to take their life when they relapse and overdose, but this is sadly the outcome for many. Justifying overdose with the idea that you’ll be okay just this once, and that a dangerous overdose couldn’t happen to you, is self-destructive thinking. Instead, you need to approach recovery with a clear understanding that you could be “the one,” and that a relapse could easily lead to serious health problems or death. Value your own life enough to protect yourself from even one relapse. Get help early, every time you need it.
Michael Webb is a Licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor and has worked in the substance abuse field for over 25 years. Michael brings a wealth of experience and education to Shadow Mountain Recovery. He has devoted most his life to helping people overcome substance abuse addictions.
The post Overdose Risk in Relapse appeared first on Shadow Mountain Recovery Drug Rehab.