Suncoast Rehab Dispels Top Three Myths Fueling Surge in Prescription Painkiller Addiction

Spring Hill, FL (PRWEB) May 13, 2013

Prescription painkiller addiction is dominating headlines todayone in five Americans report misusing a prescription drug at least once in their lifetime (1). Though an overwhelming majority of people are able to use painkillers with no lasting harm, experts agree that pain pill addiction is on the risepartly because of the availability, but also because the general public has incorrect ideas about what constitutes painkiller addiction. Suncoast Rehab Center (SRC), a Spring Hill drug rehab facility with a 76% success rate, dispels the foremost falsehoods that are fueling the growth of addiction.

Prescription painkiller abuse is what some deem a silent epidemic (2). Many people begin to take prescription pain medication for legitimate reasons and become addicted slowly, not recognizing the red flags until they are completely hooked. Suncoast warns that while many people dont intentionally abuse painkillers, there are inaccurate beliefs that often influence a dependency on legally acquired painkillers.

Suncoast debunks the following myths about prescription painkillers abuse:

1. My doctor prescribed these pills, so they must be okay. Just because a doctor prescribed the pills doesnt mean that you are safe from addiction. Many prescribed medications have a risk of dependency. It is important to keep your eyes open for signs of cravings, pill-seeking behavior or doctor shopping.

2. Im a strong-willed person. I wont become addicted. Becoming addicted to substances is not an issue of willpower. Addiction is often physical, and can strike anyone at any time.

3. I need to get rid of my pain at all costs. Feeling pain can keep you from daily activities and can affect your life negatively. However, abusing prescription pain medication is not the solution. Simply taking a pill to reduce pain does not fix the underlying cause of the pain. Talk to your doctor about your pain, and explore other types of therapies that could help. (3)

Many people struggle to come to terms with their addiction, and dont seek help until its a last resort. Suncoast urges addicts and their loved ones to seek treatment immediately upon any signs of addiction. If any of the following ring true, addiction may be a developing problem:

Youre using your painkillers for reasons other than pain relief. Taking your painkillers because it makes you energized, helps you fall asleep, or relieves your stress and anxiety are red flags. Taking the pills to change your mood instead of relieving pain is getting high. Thats a slippery slope to addiction.

You want an increase in your painkiller dosage, even though your doctor hasnt recommended it. Wanting an increase in dosage in order to alter your mood is a sign that you are crossing into addiction.

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Suncoast Rehab Dispels Top Three Myths Fueling Surge in Prescription Painkiller Addiction