Opioid abuse is a problem that has acquired extreme proportions. Well, we are not discussing drug abuse in this article but the link between drug abuse and depression. If things are left to themselves, then drug abuse can lead to hidden mental illness that can make recovery quite difficult.

Opioid abuse and depression are linked to each other in such a manner that suffering from one will increment the chances of suffering from the other one. Opioid abuse is often the cause of depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.

Research suggests that using opioids even on a prescription basis can trigger depression in the patient. Ailments such as back pain, headaches, arthritis, etc. require medication with opioid content in them.

Signs of depression 

The following are the signs of depression:

• Lack of interest in  daily activities
• Depressed  mood along with irritability
• Difficulty in sleeping and a change in the pattern of sleep
• Changes in appetite
• Feeling  guilty
• Feeling  fatigued
• Trouble in focusing
• Having Suicidal thoughts or tendencies

Signs of Opioid Addiction:

Following signs show opioid addiction

If you’re uncertain about whether you are abusing opioids or not, then ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you take opioids for a longer time than prescribed?
• Have you been unsuccessful at trying to cut back on your use?
• Do you invest a lot of time in using and obtaining the drug?
• Do you crave for the drug?
• Is the degree of drug use so much that it interferes with work or home life?
• Are you unable to discontinue even though there are problems in relationships due to the drug?

Finding Treatment

We, at Manas hospital, provide Opioid Abuse treatment. We deal with many psychiatric problems as we head a major de-addiction centre in Punjab. We provide comprehensive treatment for both depression and opioid abuse. We treat the condition of opioid dependence with medicines like methadone, naltrexone, and buprenorphine. We also believe in the fact that medication is more effective when it is given along with counseling and behavioral support. Extreme cases may require intensive outpatient or inpatient treatment.

Your inpatient or outpatient treatment programs must include:

• Peer group support
• Counselling on an individual level
• Medication options
• Treatment plan customized according  to the individual needs of the patient
• Counselling of the whole family
• Follow up support

If you intend to start prescription opioids, discuss the issue with your doctor.