Fentanyl Addiction

Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction in New Jersey

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that’s been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. It was originally developed for pain management, especially in surgery or for cancer patients. Now, it’s at the center of a growing addiction and overdose crisis.

While fentanyl can be effective when used as prescribed, unfortunately, many are finding themselves caught in a web of fentanyl abuse without realizing how quickly it can take hold.

What makes fentanyl particularly dangerous is its potency, estimated to be anywhere from 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. This strength not only heightens the overdose risk associated with fentanyl but can also lead to a rapid descent into addiction. It’s a serious issue and one impacting not just those struggling with addiction but their families and communities.

Fentanyl addiction is a substance use disorder that can manifest in various ways, from physical dependence to emotional struggles. At New Jersey Behavioral Health, we offer tailored treatment options supporting recovery.

Understanding Fentanyl Addiction

Fentanyl addiction occurs when someone develops a compulsive need to use fentanyl despite the negative consequences it brings. This might start with legitimate use as a prescription for pain management, but it then quickly spirals into misuse. When someone becomes addicted to fentanyl, their body develops a tolerance, and they need more of the drug to get the same effect.

The cycle leads to physical dependence in most cases, where withdrawal symptoms emerge if the drug isn’t taken. The effect is a deepening of the addiction.

How Fentanyl Differs from Other Opioids

While all opioids work by binding to the brain’s receptors to relieve pain, fentanyl is unique in its potency and speed of action. As a synthetic opioid, it’s man-made instead of being derived from the opium poppy like codeine or morphine.

The synthetic nature contributes to why fentanyl is so powerful. It can act within minutes, and because it’s often mixed with other substances like heroin or counterfeit pills, users may not even be aware they’re consuming it, heightening the chances of addiction and fatal consequences.

Statistics on Fentanyl Abuse and Addiction In New Jersey

Fentanyl abuse is a pressing issue across the United States, and New Jersey is no exception. According to recent statistics, the state has seen a dramatic rise in fentanyl-related overdoses.

Thousands of residents lose their lives in New Jersey every year, and it highlights the urgent need for education, prevention, and effective treatment options for those grappling with fentanyl addiction.

Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of opioid addiction is crucial for early intervention and support.

Physical Symptoms

Fentanyl addiction, also known as an opioid use disorder, can lead to physical symptoms indicating a growing dependence on the drug, including:

• Drowsiness or sedation: Users might experience lethargy or extreme fatigue, often appearing excessively sleepy or unable to stay awake.
• Respiratory issues: Fentanyl can depress respiratory function, leading to breathing that’s slow or shallow. That can be life-threatening in severe cases.
• Nausea and vomiting: People who use opioids, including fentanyl, often experience stomach discomfort, nausea or vomiting.
• Declines in physical health: Unexplained weight loss or deterioration in overall health can be red flags that substance use is affecting the body’s well-being.

Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes are often some of the most noticeable signs of fentanyl addiction and may include:

• Secrecy: Individuals may grow increasingly secretive about activities, whereabouts and relationships, hiding substance use from family and friends.
• Withdrawal from activities: People may lose interest in hobbies, social interactions, or activities they once enjoyed and choose to isolate themselves instead.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Work, school, or home responsibilities may be neglected, with a person prioritizing fentanyl use over other obligations and commitments.
• Changes in social circles: Users could start to associate with different friends or groups who share similar drug use patterns and distance themselves from peers who don’t use them.

Emotional Symptoms

Emotional symptoms can stem from the impacts of fentanyl on mental health and include:

• Anxiety: A person may experience heightened anxiety, especially when they aren’t using fentanyl, or they’re trying to cut back.
• Depression: Feelings of sadness or hopelessness can be prevalent, often worsened by the impact of addiction on personal relationships and life circumstances.
• Mood swings: Rapid shifts in mood can occur, leading to irritability or aggression, especially when the person is seeking the drug or experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Options

Fentanyl addiction is overwhelming, but effective treatment options are available. At New Jersey Behavioral Health, we provide a range of programs to help individuals reclaim their lives from addiction.

Treatment Programs Available at New Jersey Behavioral Health

Our levels of care for addiction to fentanyl include:

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Our PHP is for individuals requiring intensive support but not 24-hour supervision. The program lets clients engage in structured therapeutic activities during the day and return home in the evenings, providing a solid recovery foundation through a combination of therapy, education and support.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

The IOP is flexible for those who may have work or family commitments while still needing comprehensive treatment. Participants attend sessions multiple times a week so they can focus on their recovery while gradually reintegrating into their daily lives. The program emphasizes building coping skills and addressing the root causes of addiction.

Traditional Outpatient Programming

For those who have completed a higher care level or have milder addiction, our traditional outpatient program offers ongoing support and therapy. Clients can attend regular sessions tailored to their needs, providing the opportunity to continue building on their recovery in a less intensive setting.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy plays a critical role in fentanyl addiction treatment, offering a confidential, safe space for clients to explore thoughts, experiences and feelings related to their addiction.

Through one-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist, individuals can work on developing coping strategies, addressing underlying issues like trauma or mental health disorders and setting personal recovery goals. The personalized approach allows for deeper healing and fosters a strong therapeutic alliance.

Group Therapy

Group therapy is another essential component of our treatment programs. It offers clients the chance to connect with others who are going through similar challenges for a sense of community and shared understanding. In a supportive environment, group therapy participants share what they’ve gone through, learn from each other and develop interpersonal skills.

Group therapy also provides a platform to discuss relapse prevention strategies and practice coping mechanisms in real-time.

Reach Out Today for Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in New Jersey

At New Jersey Behavioral Health, we believe in a comprehensive, personalized approach to fentanyl addiction treatment. Our holistic approach focuses on not only the physical aspects of fentanyl addiction but also the emotional, social and psychological factors. If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl addiction, reaching out is the first step to a better life.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Fentanyl
2. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management: Fentanyl
3. NIH: The rising crisis of illicit fentanyl use, overdose, and potential therapeutic strategies
4. BMC Health Services Research: Opioid use disorder and treatment: challenges and opportunities