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Prescription Drug Addiction Center

Prescription Addiction Treatment Center in San Diego, California

Unlike other addictions, prescription drug dependency often develops in plain sight. For many people, it starts with a routine doctor’s visit, a real medical concern, and a legitimate prescription. 

You may have received medication for pain after surgery, disruptive anxiety, or trouble focusing at work or school. It’s likely that at first, the drug helped with whatever challenge you were facing. However, it’s possible that over time, you may have found yourself needing more just to get the same effect, running out of pills early, or feeling uneasy when you’re without them. This isn’t your fault; it’s just the nature of the medication.

You’re not the only one facing this struggle. Over 16 million people in the U.S. misuse prescription drugs every year, and over 18 million Americans age 12 and up have done it at least once in their lifetime. Unfortunately, it’s more common than it should be.

No matter how long you’ve been wrestling with your addiction, West Coast Recovery Centers can help. We offer nonjudgmental, personalized care to help you break free from prescription drug dependency and build a healthier, more grounded life.

Which Rx Drugs Are Most Commonly Misused?

Opioids

Opioids are painkillers commonly prescribed after a serious surgery or injury. Drugs like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine are highly addictive, even when taken as directed. If you take them for an extended period of time, you may notice that your body builds a tolerance, requiring higher doses just to feel the same relief. This phenomenon is how many people end up accidentally dependent on their prescription medication.

Benzodiazepines

Prescribed to treat anxiety, panic attacks, or insomnia, drugs like Xanax, Ativan, and Valium can quickly create a sense of calm, but they also come with a high risk of addiction. You might find yourself needing more just to sleep or feel “normal,” and stopping suddenly can lead to intense withdrawal symptoms.

Stimulants

Often prescribed for conditions like ADHD, stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin are sometimes misused to boost concentration, energy, or even manage weight. Although these medications can be helpful to many people, misusing them can lead to erratic behavior, heart problems, and more serious mental health issues.

Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Drug Addiction

It’s not always easy to recognize when you’ve become dependent on prescription medication. If you’re worried you may have crossed that line, here are some signs to watch out for:

  • Taking higher doses than prescribed or finishing prescriptions early
  • Visiting multiple doctors or pharmacies to get more medication than what’s necessary
  • Feeling anxious or physically sick when you don’t have your medication
  • Noticing changes in your mood, energy, or how you relate to others
  • Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
  • Pulling away from people you care about

If any of these behaviors sound familiar, you may be experiencing addiction, but you are not beyond help. At WCRC, we help those who have detoxed from prescription drugs and are ready to make lasting change.

How Prescription Drug Abuse Can Affect Your Life

Prescription drug misuse doesn’t just affect your body. It can interfere with all aspects of your life.

 

Hinders your physical health

Long-term use of opioids, benzos, or stimulants can lead to serious health risks, including liver or kidney damage, cognitive decline, and increased risk of overdose. Not only do they disrupt your body’s regular functions, but they can also unexpectedly take your life.

 

Damages important relationships

Addiction can strain even the strongest connections. It can cause you to lie to or even avoid those closest to you in an attempt to keep your drug use a secret. Addiction stirs up conflict that wouldn’t otherwise exist and, in some cases, can even lead to codependency with loved ones.

 

Exacerbates mental health conditions

Prescription drug abuse can amplify underlying mental health conditions and make it harder to cope with everyday stress. When you’re under the influence of your medication, and even afterward, you might feel anxious, depressed, or disconnected from reality.

 

Creates legal and financial issues

Forging prescriptions or buying medication off the street puts you at risk for legal consequences. Meanwhile, the financial burden of maintaining your supply can cause you to overspend, go into debt, or do things you normally wouldn’t to obtain it.

Treatment for Rx Drug Addiction

At West Coast Recovery Centers, we believe that healing is possible for anyone who seeks it. Whether you’re transitioning from residential care or beginning your recovery journey in an outpatient setting, we offer both partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs tailored to meet your specific needs. These are just a few of the main facets of our clinical approach:

Traditional approaches

Evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), group counseling, and one-on-one sessions can provide both structure and insight, helping you build healthier coping skills.

We believe that for lasting recovery, it’s important to tend to every component of your wellness. We incorporate mindfulness, movement, art, nutrition, and other holistic practices to support your whole self.

Many people who struggle with prescription drug addiction are also managing mental health conditions. We treat both at the same time, helping you understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

After you complete your treatment program, we’ll help you develop a plan for the long term, including continued support, accountability, and strategies to stay on track.

Reclaim Control from Prescription Drug Addiction

It might feel like prescription drugs have taken over your life, but consider this a turning point. If you’re ready to reclaim control, West Coast Recovery Centers is here for you. Contact us today to learn more about our programs.

We work with most major insurance companies on an in-network basis.

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