Originally marketed as safe and non-habit-forming, opioids were widespread throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. However, we now know that opioid-based painkillers carry a high risk of addiction, even when used under a doctor’s supervision.
At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we specialize in treating people who have developed a dependence on pain medication. Our Chronic Pain and Addiction Treatment Program addresses the physical discomfort that led to opioid use and the psychological aspects of addiction.
Why Painkillers Are So Addictive
Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord that regulate pain and emotion. When the drug activates these receptors, the brain blocks pain signals and releases a flood of dopamine – a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
Even people who begin taking opioids for legitimate reasons, such as postsurgical pain or chronic back problems, can quickly progress from tolerance through dependence to addiction.
Because health providers prescribe these medications, many people mistakenly assume they are safe. Unfortunately, prescription status does not eliminate the risk of addiction. You may become trapped in a cycle of needing more medication to control your pain, even as opioids become less effective and more harmful over time.
Who Is Vulnerable to Painkiller Addiction?
Painkiller addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their age, background or health history. However, specific factors may increase your vulnerability.
- Chronic pain conditions that require long-term opioid use
- History of substance use disorders or mental health issues such as depression or anxiety
- Trauma or unresolved emotional pain
- High-stress environments or poor coping skills
- Lack of access to alternative pain management strategies
Most people struggling with painkiller addiction never intended to misuse their medication. They may feel ashamed or confused about how quickly they lost control. At Hemet Valley Recovery Center, we meet clients with understanding and compassion, not judgment.
HVRC’s Chronic Pain and Addiction Treatment Program
Hemet Valley Recovery Center fills a critical gap for people who have realized they rely on narcotic analgesics to manage pain and feel pleasure.
Since fear of unmanaged pain is a leading reason people hesitate to seek help, your treatment will begin with medically managed detoxification to safely address withdrawal symptoms while protecting you from breakthrough pain.
After completing detox, you will transition into a structured, multidisciplinary treatment plan that includes:
- Traditional chemical dependency treatment
- Therapeutic groups focused on alternative pain management
- Education about the neurobiology of addiction and pain
- Behavioral therapies to promote emotional regulation and healthy coping
- Supervised introduction of non-opioid pain relief strategies such as mindfulness, physical therapy and non-narcotic medications
Under the guidance of our medical director and clinical team, we help clients develop new ways to manage their pain without relying on opioids – reclaiming their health, independence and quality of life. We understand the complex relationship between pain and addiction and have created a safe place where you can receive the professional attention you need. Contact us today to learn more.