Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are opioids?

Opioids are prescription pain medication like morphine, codeine, methadone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, hydromorphone. Illegal drugs like heroin are also opioids.

 

How do I know if I might be addicted to Opioids?

Opioids, from pain killers to street drugs like heroin, are highly addictive. Over time, you may need more and more of the drug to feel ok. These drugs make you feel like you need them to survive. Addiction looks different for everyone. If you feel or experience any of the following and have been using opioids, it is time to get help.

 

What should i do if I missed my first appointment?

If you have missed your first appointment that was scheduled prior to discharging, there are walk-in clinics available to obtain your medication!

 

Where CAN i get help?

Recovery is a journey. There are people ready to help you at every step.

 

Where I can find Community Centers available to everyone?

Local organizations offer a wide range of services in support of sobriety, mental health, community health and behavioral health. Individuals and family services are available for people of all ages and backgrounds. 

 

What to do if I relapsed?

Recovery is ongoing and sometimes you can have a slip or a relapse. In the event that you have a slip or relapse, here are simple steps to help you get back to your recovery. 

 

What to expect when you begin medication treatment for opioid use?

The first step in recovery treatment is to meet with a doctor or clinician. They’ll ask questions to create a treatment plan right for your needs.

The process may take 30 minutes, but it could also take a couple hours. Try to stay relaxed and answer honestly. Remind yourself that you are ready for treatment. 

Next, you will probably talk about medication to help you with withdrawal.

 

How to Maintain Sobriety?

Detox and recovery are parts of getting clean, but they’re different from one another.

Detox is your body getting rid of the chemicals from any substance(s) you’ve used.

Recovery is an ongoing process. It’s recognizing the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that cause you to use a substance. It’s also learning how to change your thoughts, manage your feelings and emotions, and adjust or change your behaviors. You’ll need the support and coping skills you get from counseling and group therapies to deal with the mental challenges and physical cravings.

 

Need access to recovery information but don’t have a computer?

If you are looking for free computer and internet access, there are several local organizations that can help. Find a location near you and check to see if you need an ID to use their computers.

 

Questions & Answers About Opioids

 

Opioids are:

  • Prescription pain medication like morphine, codeine, methadone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, hydromorphone

  • Illegal drugs like heroin

 

How do opioids Affect the body?

  • Reduce pain and create a sense of euphoria

  • Slowed breathing

  • Reduced energy

  • Sleepiness 

  • Confusion

  • Pin-point pupils

  • Constipation

  • Altered mood

  • Nausea and vomiting

 

What are the signs of an overdose? 

  • Face is extremely pale and/or clammy to the touch

  • Limp body

  • Fingernails or lips have a blue or purple color

  • The person is vomiting or making gurgling sounds

  • The person cannot be awakened from sleep or cannot speak

  • Breathing is very slow or stopped

  • The heartbeat is very slow or stopped

 

How to treat a suspected overdose?

  • Call 911. Say “Someone is unresponsive and not breathing” and give a specific location description or address.

  • If you have access to Narcan (also called Naloxone, an opioid reversal medication), administer it while waiting for paramedics to arrive.