Opiate addiction causes pain and suffering to those using the drug and the lives of everyone around it. Opium is the main ingredient in many universally abused drugs such as: Vicodin, oxycodone, morphine, Fentanyl and heroin. Addiction to this narcotic painkiller can develop within the first use. Because of its euphoric characteristics and emotionally numbing ability, opiate addiction is almost instant. With long-term use, tolerance develops and within little time the addict loses all ability to manage or quit using. The severe withdrawals that result make quitting an almost unfeasible possibility. Opiate addiction can bring a person down quick, to a level of hopeless isolation. In most cases an intervention for opiate addiction is almost the only hope for the suffering addict.
The Intervention
The goal of an intervention for opiate addiction is to put the weight of what the addiction is doing to the addict and those that suffer around the addiction. Depending on the level of use, an intervention for opiate addiction should probably be performed by a professional. Talk to a professional for guidance and assistance. A professional interventionist is the best bet for a successful intervention for opiate addiction.
Family and Friends: Collaborate all members involved in the life of the addict, the more people the stronger the voice.
Co-dependency: One may think that caretaking for the addict is to ensure that they stay alive. This is just enabling them to use, and destroying the lives of the caretakers.
Prepare a Script: The easiest way is writing a letter. List the ways they are destroying their life and those around them. Express how the enabling will stop.
The Gift of Treatment: Present it as a gift to them, because it is.
Now or Never: Generally if they don't choose to go that day, they may never go. The message is clearest and loudest at the moment of intervention. Boundaries must be set if the addict decides against entering treatment.
Everyone suffers in an opiate addiction, especially those who have to witness it. Opiate addiction is a lonely place to be and asking for help can feel like an impossible task. Put an end to the suffering. Seek professional advice for an intervention to end opiate addiction.
