We often don’t consider drug abuse with painkillers. After all, painkillers are designed to make us better and can be prescribed by doctors. So how could they do us any harm?
Well, the truth is when misused they can have devastating consequences and, unfortunately, more and more people are finding themselves utilising the support of drug addiction rehab treatment due to the abuse of painkillers.
Often it can go unnoticed or you may not even think about how many painkillers your loved one is taking. However, it’s important to notice the signs of misuse and provide them with support before things spiral out of control.
Understanding Painkiller Misuse
Firstly, it’s important to understand what painkiller misuse actually is. This can range from taking higher doses than a loved one’s been prescribed to using the medication for non-medical reasons. That could include for stress or perhaps to improve mood. Alternatively, if the drugs are being sourced illicitly that can be a huge red flag.
What’s important to note is that often misuse will start as legitimate pain relief, but it can evolve into something more problematic, which puts both physical, mental and emotional health at risk.
Key Warning Signs
1. Changes in Behaviour and Mood
One of the main things you’ll notice is a change in behaviour. You may find that your loved one becomes unusually irritable, anxious or lethargic, while mood swings can become regular without any real reason for them. Often people also feel withdrawn or less interested in the activities they once enjoyed too.
2. Secretive or Deceptive Behaviour
With many forms of addiction, behaviour starts to become secretive. There are many signs a partner or loved one is hiding something from you, and when it comes to painkillers you may notice them being evasive about doctor’s visits, their prescriptions or, indeed, how quickly they’re going through their medication. You may find they even visit multiple doctors or pharmacies, known as “doctor shopping”, something that’s common with addicts to gain extra prescriptions.
3. Physical Symptoms
The physical signs of painkiller misuse can vary depending on the drug but may include drowsiness, slurred speech, constricted pupils, or sudden weight changes. They might also suffer from constipation, nausea, or frequent flu-like symptoms due to withdrawal between doses.
4. Financial Irregularities
Addiction can quickly become expensive. You might notice money going missing, unexpected borrowing, or even selling of possessions. If your loved one is facing financial strain without a clear reason, it could be tied to substance misuse.
5. Neglecting Responsibilities
As dependence grows, responsibilities often fall by the wayside. Work performance may drop, household duties may be neglected, and social relationships can suffer. You might hear frequent excuses for missed commitments or notice them isolating themselves from family and friends.
Addressing the Issue
It’s important to approach the situation with empathy rather than judgement. Many people who misuse painkillers do so not out of recklessness but because of unaddressed pain – physical, emotional, or psychological. Express your concerns calmly and privately, using specific examples of behaviours that have worried you. Avoid accusations; instead, focus on how much you care and want to support them.
Encourage them to speak to a GP or addiction specialist. In the UK, organisations such as Talk to Frank, NHS Drug and Alcohol Services, and Addaction offer confidential help. If they’re open to it, you could even offer to attend a consultation with them.