Five Winning Strategies to Avoid Getting Addicted to Prescription Drugs

When a doctor prescribes a medication, patients rarely think twice about taking it. Prescription drugs are legal and provided by a physician who presumably has expertise in their field. For the most part, this system functions as it should. The doctor knows which medications and which doses are most effective, and the patient reaps the benefits that prescription drugs can provide.

As we’ve seen in recent years, this system breaks down when people – patients and doctors alike – underestimate the risks of prescription drug use. A doctor may continue to prescribe powerful opiates without recognizing signs that the patient has become addicted to them. In pursuit of greater relief after an accident or injury, a patient may visit multiple doctors for prescriptions and take more medication than was originally prescribed. Eventually the addiction can lead to overdose or serious health consequences, with drug rehab treatment being the only option to try to regain a normal life.

The result has been a culture that accepts “popping a pill” as a solution to every ailment and a nationwide epidemic of prescription drug abuse. While there are many instances when medication is an appropriate intervention, there are a number of strategies that can help you feel better without risking a lifelong battle with addiction.

1. Find Non-Drug Alternatives that Alleviate Pain and Discomfort

There are a number of non-drug alternatives to consider when addressing physical, mental and emotional problems. These include:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Also known as CBT, this form of talk therapy can help people solve problems and improve their lives. The therapist helps the patient replace persistent negative thought patterns and unrealistic beliefs that fuel addictive behaviors and other mental health issues with more adaptive ones. The process takes time, but empirical evidence shows that CBT is effective in treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse and eating disorders, among other conditions.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to correct energy imbalances in the body. Using fine needles at various points along the body, acupuncturists work to prevent disease and promote overall health. A developing body of research supports its efficacy for reducing nausea and treating various types of pain.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback allows patients to change different physiological functions, such as heart rate, brainwaves, skin temperature, breathing and muscle tone, to improve their health. Using sensors and instruments that “feed back” information, patients become in tune with ways to manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Over time, patients can make these changes on their own, without the use of an instrument. Biofeedback has been used to treat various types of pain, ADHD, insomnia, hypertension, substance abuse and other disorders.

Yoga

Chronic stress is often at the root of addictive behaviors. Stress triggers the release of the hormone cortisol, which can impair memory and brain function over time. Yoga is an excellent way to reduce stress, strengthen the mind-body connection, and balance out the emotional highs and lows. A Harvard Medical School study found that yoga, as well as meditation, tai chi, breathing exercises and other stress management techniques, can counteract the cellular damage from chronic stress.

Non-Addictive Drugs

In treating certain conditions, doctors can prescribe a non-addictive medication. While all drugs have some side effects, research has shown that some have far less potential for harm than others. Some of the alternatives may include over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies or non-addictive prescription drugs. Talk to your doctor about all of your treatment options.

Exercise

Study after study confirms the health benefits of regular exercise. Physical activity releases endorphins, relieves stress and promotes well-being. Activities as simple as walking or gardening done three to five days a week can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, boost energy, improve sleep, and prevent stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, certain types of cancer and heart disease. Many forms of exercise can be combined with other mood-boosters such as listening to music, playing with a pet and socializing with friends.

2. Engage in Activities that Bring Meaning to Your Life

Get involved in activities that are fun and rewarding and that give you a sense of purpose. Do something you’ve always wanted to try. If you’re not sure where to start, volunteering can bring meaning to your life and also help foster a sense of gratitude and appreciation.

3. Build a Strong Social Support Network

Humans are social creatures. We rely on our connections with other people to feel whole. Withdrawing from others and isolating yourself are red flags that you are headed in the wrong direction. Instead, build a social support network and reach out in both good and bad times. Social support doesn’t have to be limited to family, friends or co-workers. You can also get involved in your community through volunteer work, a church or other religious organization, or a local club or neighborhood group.

4. Take Care of Yourself

A healthy lifestyle is important for longevity and overall well-being, but it is also a significant protective factor in preventing prescription drug abuse. Get 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity at least three to five days a week, set aside eight hours per night for sleep, and maintain a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. The better you feel, the less likely you will be to look to prescription drugs to alleviate your health concerns.

5. Set Realistic Goals

Drug addiction can take hold when people feel helpless to change their lives. Having achievable goals that you are working toward keeps you occupied in productive pursuits and gives you something to look forward to on a daily basis. The goal can be work- or health-related, or it can be something you’d like to achieve in your personal life. What matters most is that it is important to you and is realistically achievable.

Take Charge of Your Health

Prescription medications were created to help, not harm. When used properly, they can contribute to your health and wellness in valuable ways. If you need to use a prescription drug, follow your doctor’s instructions and request close monitoring and regular check-ups to avoid prolonged and unnecessary use. Educate yourself about the risks of prescription drug use and try a few holistic alternatives, particularly if you have a personal or family history of drug addiction.

Pain and suffering are part of life, but so is finding relief. While prescription drugs are an important option to consider, you should never feel like you’ve run out of choices. Take charge of your health and addiction-proof your life – first by finding balance and meaning and then seeking out those natural pain relievers that carry little risk of side effects or addiction.