Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment in Knoxville

Tennessee Prescription Drug Rehab Center

When used correctly, prescription drugs effectively treat and manage a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. Unfortunately, many of these medications also have a high potential for abuse. Prescription medication misuse is one of the most common types of drug abuse in the United States—and for those struggling with it, the future can seem hopeless.

At Tennessee Wellness Center, we are here to tell you that there is hope. At our Knoxville prescription drug treatment center, we provide a personalized, family-oriented approach to recovery. We understand the immense toll prescription drug abuse can take on individuals and their families.

Continue reading to learn more about prescription drug misuse and addiction, as well as how our family can help you on the road to recovery. Call us at (865) 205-2770 today. 

On This Page:

• What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?
• Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction
• Commonly Abused Prescription Medications
• Treating Prescription Drug Abuse & Addiction
• How to Help a Loved One Get Treatment for Prescription Drug Abuse
• Take the First Step Toward Healing
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?

Many prescription medications are specifically designed to alter the way the brain works. Painkillers, anti-depressants, sleep aids, and other prescription drugs have powerful effects that can quickly lead to increased tolerance and abuse. Often, people who are prescribed medications by their doctors do not realize that they have begun misusing the medication or they do not think it is a big deal. However, misuse often spirals into abuse and addiction. Once the cycle has begun, it can be incredibly difficult—nearly impossible—for people to quit on their own.

Prescription drug misuse and abuse can take many forms, including but not limited to:

• Taking a medication without a prescription
• “Losing” a prescription and requesting another
• Requesting early refills or refills on a non-refillable prescription
• Taking or “borrowing” someone else’s prescription medication
• Visiting multiple doctors to obtain several prescriptions
• Taking a prescription drug for longer than instructed
• Stockpiling a “backup” supply of a medication
• Taking more than the prescribed amount/dosage
• Buying a prescription drug illegally from someone else

Signs You Or Your Loved One is Addicted to Prescription Drugs

Signs of prescription drug abuse can vary depending on the specific drug being abused. However, there are some common signs that may indicate someone is misusing or abusing prescription medications:

• Changes in behavior: Sudden changes in behavior, such as increased secrecy, mood swings, irritability, or aggression, may be indicators of prescription drug abuse. The person may also exhibit noticeable changes in their social interactions and relationships.
• Physical symptoms: Prescription drug abuse can cause various physical symptoms, including drowsiness, slurred speech, poor coordination, and impaired judgment. The person may display changes in their appearance, such as bloodshot eyes, dilated or constricted pupils, or weight loss/gain.
• Increased tolerance: Over time, a person may develop a tolerance to the effects of prescription drugs, requiring larger doses to achieve the desired effect. They may start taking higher doses than prescribed or taking the medication more frequently without medical supervision.
• Withdrawal symptoms: When someone is dependent on prescription drugs, they may experience withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop or reduce usage. These symptoms can include nausea, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and flu-like symptoms.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Prescription drug abuse can lead to a decline in performance at work, school, or home as the person becomes preoccupied with obtaining and using the drugs. They may neglect important responsibilities and activities that were once important to them.
• Financial difficulties: Misusing prescription drugs can be expensive, leading to financial strain. The person may start borrowing money, selling possessions, or engaging in illegal activities to support their drug habit.
• Doctor shopping: People who abuse prescription drugs may visit multiple doctors or pharmacies to obtain multiple prescriptions, a behavior known as "doctor shopping." This allows them to acquire a larger supply of drugs without detection.

Commonly Abused Prescription Medications

Any type of prescription medication has some potential for misuse. However, certain medications are more commonly abused due to their brain-altering properties. Prescription drugs that produce a euphoric high are most likely to be misused and lead to addiction.

Some of the most commonly abused prescription medications in the United States include:

• Benzodiazepines: Collectively referred to as tranquilizers, benzodiazepines are a type of sedative used to treat numerous anxiety and sleep disorders. Examples of benzodiazepines include Ambien®, Ativan®, Klonopin®, Xanax®, and Valium®.
• Opioids: Opioids are powerful medications used to treat and manage pain. Unfortunately, they also have a very high risk of abuse. Examples of common prescription opioids include codeine, fentanyl, morphine, Norco®, OxyContin®, Percocet®, tramadol, and Vicodin®.
• Stimulants: Prescription stimulants—such as Adderall®, Dexedrine®, and Ritalin®—are used to treat a variety of conditions, including attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep disorders, and more.

Unfortunately, because of the way these medications affect brain chemistry, people can easily build tolerance, meaning they must take more of the drug to achieve the same effects. They may ultimately develop a dependence on the drug which can easily spiral into addiction.

Treating Prescription Drug Abuse & Addiction

For those struggling with prescription drug abuse and addiction, acknowledging the need for professional help can be embarrassing, overwhelming, and immensely challenging. But it is a critical first step in the healing process. Remember prescription drug addiction is a disease like any other; there is no shame in seeking and accepting help.

Professional drug abuse treatment programs have proven extremely effective in helping those struggling to overcome prescription drug addiction. At Tennessee Wellness Center, we provide a range of clinically backed treatments and therapies designed to help you heal your relationship with yourself and others. We believe in a whole-person approach that takes into account the underlying factors, including behavioral and/or mental health conditions that may have led to the initial use of the medication, that play a role in prescription drug abuse.

At Tennessee Wellness Center, we provide you with the tools you need to develop critical skills that allow you to identify triggers, avoid relapse, and manage underlying mental health issues that can affect your recovery.

Our Knoxville prescription drug addiction treatment programs include:

• Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): Our PHP is designed to support those who need intensive treatment for moderate to advanced prescription drug abuse and addiction. With our PHP, you still sleep at home and travel to our center daily or weekly for a variety of treatments and therapies. These treatments are tailored to your specific needs and are designed to provide the personalized support you need to move forward in your recovery.
• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): Like our PHP, our IOP allows you to continue living at home while attending our facility consistently to receive treatment and support. This allows you to maintain employment, develop healthy relationships, and continue taking care of important responsibilities during your recovery.

PHP is typically recommended for individuals who require more intensive treatment than traditional outpatient therapy but do not need 24/7 supervision or inpatient hospitalization. It provides a comprehensive range of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, psychiatric evaluations, and other therapeutic activities. PHP allows individuals to receive intensive treatment while maintaining some level of independence and support from their home environment.

On the other hand, IOP is suitable for individuals who have completed a higher level of care, such as inpatient or PHP, or for those who require more support than traditional outpatient therapy. It includes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, psychoeducation, and other therapeutic modalities to address the specific needs of each individual. IOP focuses on relapse prevention, developing coping skills, and providing ongoing support as individuals transition back into their everyday lives.

Throughout the process, our family of addiction specialists will be there to provide the support you need, including aftercare designed to help you achieve long-term sobriety.

How to Help a Loved One Get Treatment for Prescription Drug Abuse

There are few things more heartbreaking than seeing a son, daughter, parent, relative, or friend struggle with prescription drug addiction. You may be feeling frustrated, angry, stressed, confused, and unsure of how to approach the subject. You may be fearful to say anything and make things worse with your relationship with them. While it may be uncomfortable, know that you could be saving their life by speaking up.

If someone you know is abusing prescription drugs:

• Educate yourself about addiction so you can better understand exactly what they are experiencing and empathize with their situation. Addiction is a complex disease, and you need to learn as much as you can about their challenges.
• Do not delay. You do not have to wait for them to hit "rock bottom" to speak up. The earlier an addiction is treated, the better.
• Approach them from a place of compassion, not judgment. Do not shame them for their struggles.
• Be prepared to encounter resistance as it is possible that they may be unaware or in denial of their addiction.
• If they agree to seek treatment, stay involved throughout the process and check in on their progress. This is the time they will need your support the most.
• If your loved one refuses to acknowledge an obvious problem after being approached multiple times, consider enlisting the help of a trained intervention specialist.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

Seeking help or information for yourself or a loved one struggling with addiction is not easy—but you do not have to navigate this process alone. At Tennessee Wellness Center, we are there for you every step of the way.

Here are the benefits of choosing us for your recovery journey:

• Transparency: We believe in open communication and transparency throughout the treatment process. We are always available to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have.
• Experience: Our founders have devoted their lives to helping individuals on their path to recovery. With their extensive experience, they understand the challenges you face and can provide effective solutions tailored to your unique needs.
• Continuous Support: At Tennessee Wellness Center, we see ourselves as a family. We are committed to providing ongoing support even after treatment is completed. We know that lasting recovery requires a strong support system, and we are here for you every step of the way.
• Attention to Detail: We recognize that every individual's journey to recovery is different. That's why we take the time to learn about your specific needs and desires. With this knowledge, we create a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique challenges and goals.
• Whole-Person Health Approach: We understand the connection between sobriety and mental wellness. Our approach to treatment focuses on addressing both addiction and mental health concerns. We provide the tools and therapies you need to improve your physical health, emotional well-being, and relationships, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your recovery.

Our team offers a family-oriented approach with an emphasis on healing relationships and helping our clients live meaningful, happy, sober lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to recover from prescription drug addiction?

Recovery is a unique journey for each individual. Treatment length varies depending on the severity of addiction, individual needs, and progress.

Is it safe to suddenly stop taking prescription drugs?

Abruptly stopping prescription drugs can be dangerous and lead to withdrawal symptoms. It's essential to taper off under medical supervision.

What can I do to prevent relapse after treatment?

Building a strong support system, attending aftercare programs, practicing healthy coping mechanisms, and identifying potential triggers are essential for preventing relapse.

Is there a connection between mental health and prescription drug addiction?

Yes, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and trauma can increase the risk of developing prescription drug addiction.

Is there treatment available for older adults struggling with prescription drug addiction?

Yes, older adults are at risk for prescription drug addiction. Tennessee Wellness Center provides age-appropriate treatment programs that address the specific needs of this population.

If you’re ready to take the first step in your recovery, or if you would like more information, please call us at (865) 205-2770 or contact us online today.