I Think I'm Addicted to Painkillers: Can You Help?

If you're reading this, you’re probably wondering if your relationship with painkillers has turned into something more serious. 

At Revive Holistic Psychiatry in Weymouth, Massachusetts, we understand that painkiller addiction is a complex, deeply personal challenge. Whether you’re struggling with opioids like oxycodone, hydrocodone, or even prescribed medications, we can help.

Painkiller addiction can sneak up on anyone. These medications are often prescribed for legitimate reasons, like relieving post-surgical or chronic pain. Yet, their ability to deliver a rush of “feel-good” chemicals can lead to dependence over time and become a substance use disorder. 

If you’re feeling trapped by this cycle, know you’re not alone, and we have effective ways to help you reclaim control of your life.

What causes painkiller addiction?

Painkillers, especially opioids, interact with your brain’s reward system to relieve pain and create feelings of euphoria. Over time, your body can build tolerance, meaning you need more of the drug to achieve the same relief or high. This process is both physical and psychological, making it hard to simply stop on your own.

You have a higher risk for addiction if you:

• Use prescription opioids for chronic pain for a long time
• Have a family history of or genetic predisposition for addiction
• Have co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
• Live with high stress levels 
• Live with or around those who misuse substances

Sometimes, even the best intentions can lead to dependence. Many people struggling with addiction didn’t plan to misuse their medication but found themselves caught in a cycle they can’t seem to break.

Recognizing the signs of painkiller addiction

If you’re unsure whether your painkiller use has become a problem, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you find yourself using more medication than prescribed over time?
• Do you feel anxious or irritable when you don’t take painkillers?
• Have you tried to cut back, but couldn’t?
• Do you spend significant time thinking about, obtaining, or using the medication?
• Have your relationships or job been affected by your use?

Answering “yes” to any of these may be a sign of dependency or addiction. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but recognizing these signs is a crucial first step toward getting the help you need.

How we can help

At Revive Holistic Psychiatry, we offer a comprehensive addiction recovery program that’s personalized for your unique situation. Dr. Oluranti Adepoju’s approach combines state-of-the-art treatments with compassionate care to guide you toward recovery. Here’s how we support you:

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

MAT is a highly effective and evidence-based treatment for opioid (painkiller) addiction. Medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone®), naltrexone (Vivitrol®), or buprenorphine extended-release injection (Sublocade®) help by:

• Reducing withdrawal symptoms like nausea, shaking, and cravings
• Minimizing the risk of relapse by blocking opioids’ euphoric effects
• Supporting you through the toughest stages of recovery without making you feel “high”

Our team is specially licensed to provide these medications safely and works closely with you to monitor your progress.

Psychotherapy and counseling

Addressing the emotional and behavioral aspects of addiction is just as important as treating the physical symptoms. Our therapy options include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to change thoughts and behaviors that lead to addiction
• Brief psychotherapy to manage stressors that trigger substance use
• Motivational counseling to build your confidence and commitment to recovery

Through regular sessions, we help you develop healthier coping strategies and work through underlying issues like anxiety or past trauma.

Collaboration with other healthcare providers

Addiction often doesn’t work in isolation, and neither should your treatment. 

If needed, we collaborate with your primary care physician, pain management specialist, or other providers to ensure your care is seamless and well-coordinated. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of your physical and mental health are being addressed, setting you up for long-term success.

If you’re struggling with a dependency on painkillers, call us in Weymouth, Massachusetts, at 617-855-9944, or book an appointment online. Together, we can help you find freedom from addiction and start living the life you deserve.