Chronic pain is a tough burden to juggle in everyday life. With constant aches and discomfort, it can easily become difficult to complete tasks that were once easy and enjoyable. To help cope, opioids are often prescribed to people dealing with this type of pain for their ability to provide fast and effective relief.
Currently, there is a growing opioid crisis in Florida, particularly in Tampa. Opioid use may not seem dangerous at first, but what may start out as medication for managing long-term pain can quickly turn into a serious drug addiction.
In fact, an estimated 600,000 people worldwide lost their lives due to drug abuse in 2019. Nearly 80% of these deaths were connected to opioids, with about a quarter resulting from opioid overdose. At Phoenix House Florida, we offer opioid abuse treatment in Tampa that provides compassionate care, personalized therapy, and hope for long-term recovery.
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is pain that has lasted for more than 3–6 months and continues to last even after the original injury or illness has healed. Common causes can include things like back injuries, arthritis, nerve damage, or post-surgery recovery.
Different from short-term pain, the long-term aching and lingering of pain can begin to interfere with daily activities and well-being, leading to extreme frustration and a negative impact on quality of life.
In Tampa, chronic pain is especially noticeable among retirees and workers in physically demanding industries. For many, what begins as a small discomfort can grow into a condition that feels impossible to live with without the help of medication or treatment.
The Connection Between Chronic Pain and Addiction
When chronic pain is treated with opioid use over long periods of time, the risk of addiction starts to grow. Through repeated use, tolerance of the drug begins to develop, and a person taking the drug will eventually need higher doses just to get the same relief.
Over time, the body begins to rely on medication to function normally, resulting in a strong dependence. This can eventually progress into an addiction where cravings, misuse, or compulsive behaviors start to take over.
Once opioids begin to be overused, their side effects can lead to slowing of breath, impaired judgment, and in severe cases, fatal overdoses. For these reasons, recognizing the progression early is essential for preventing misuse and seeking opioid abuse treatment in Tampa before it worsens.
Contact Phoenix House Florida for Opioid Addiction Treatment in Tampa Today
Chronic pain is a tough challenge to manage with everyday life, but turning to addiction will only make things worse. Opioid misuse is dangerous and, if left untreated, can quickly escalate into a serious health risk.
At Phoenix House Florida, we provide compassionate opioid abuse treatment in Tampa that paves the way to a healthier, more fulfilling life. With the right care and support, recovery is always possible.
For more information about supporting yourself or your loved ones with opioid addiction treatment in Tampa, Brandon, and Ocala give us a call at (813) 881-1000 or request an appointment today.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are for general educational purposes only. All content and media on the Phoenix House Florida website do not constitute professional medical advice nor is the information intended to replace the services provided by Phoenix House Florida or other qualified medical professionals. If you believe you are having a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.