Veterans, just like other members of the population, are vulnerable to opioid abuse and addiction. Luckily, there is a range of opioid treatment centers that can help veterans find recovery from opioid abuse and addiction.
What Are Opioids and Opiates?
The terms opioids and opiates are often used somewhat interchangeably, though there are some distinctions. In some instances, the term opiates will be reserved to describe the naturally-derived opiate alkaloids such as morphine and codeine, while opioids may additionally refer more broadly to semi-synthetic drugs that are manufactured from these precursors as well as fully lab-made synthetic drugs.
In their various formulations, prescription opioids may be used to treat moderate to severe pain, reduce cough, stop diarrhea, and induce sleep. These drugs interfere with how the body transmits signals and sensations that indicate pain. Their use is also associated with increased activity of a brain chemical known as dopamine, which can result in a rewarding euphoria, thus increasing the potential for abuse and addiction in some people. In addition to their therapeutic pharmacological activity, opioids may have some side effects, including:
Drowsiness.
Confusion.
Nausea and vomiting.
Constipation.
Depressed breathing, which can cause brain damage or death in severe cases.
Opioid Use in Veterans
Veterans may be prescribed opioids to manage pain resulting from a variety of issues. While many veterans safely take opioids for limited periods under medical supervision, others may find opioid use problematic for several reasons. Opioid use to manage many chronic pain has become less widespread, as there may be safer and more effective pain management strategies in some of these situations. Chronic opioid use increases several health risks, and makes tolerance to the effects of opioids much more likely. Over time, a progression from taking opioids as prescribed to needing ever-increasing amount of the medication for it to continue to manage pain can lay the groundwork for problematic patterns of misuse.
Since opioids stimulate the reward centers of the brain, misuse of these medications can dramatically reinforce their continued use—ultimately contributing to the development of an addiction.2 As opioid use escalates in some instances, people may begin to seek cheaper or easier-to-obtain opioid alternatives, such as heroin
Causes and Risks
Veterans may be at greater risk of developing substance use disorders (SUD) than the general population. A range of factors can contribute to this higher risk. In some cases, opioid use disorders (OUDs) develop in veterans for whom prescription opioids were initiated for injuries sustained during deployment that later result in chronic pain. Substance use disorders are also quite prevalent among veterans who struggle with mental health issues, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can be challenging for veterans to reintegrate into civilian life after military service; this can be another contributing factor to the development of SUDs as well. Overall, while the causes and risks of developing an opioid addiction vary depending on one’s circumstances, opioid addiction remains a prescient and growing problem for veteran populations.
Impacts on Veterans
Opioid and other substance misuse can have major short- and long-term impacts on a veteran’s life. Veterans with substance use disorders may be several times more likely to receive a diagnosis of PTSD or depression. These mental health issues themselves are additionally associated with other issues such as sleep disturbances and relationship violence. Veterans with co-occurring SUD and PTSD may also be more likely to experience additional mental and physical health issues, such as HIV, liver disease, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Honorably discharged Veterans, who qualify, will receive substance abuse treatment services at NO COST. Call Thornton and Associates Veteran Services to speak with one of our Addiction Specialists at (626) 482-3478 for a free, confidential consultation to verify if you qualify.
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