Opiate addiction is a growing problem in the US. The drugs, especially heroin, are easy to get and offer a euphoric high, creating a desire for more. When the high starts to wear off, many opiate users take another dose of the drug to create that high again. It is a vicious cycle that can be hard to break. The unfortunate truth is, even after opiate addicts overcome their physical addiction and start feeling better physically, they often still struggle with depression, anxiety, and other mental problems. For many addicts who have been abusing opiates for a long time, withdrawal from the drug can be traumatic and lead to feelings of depression.
Ways To Deal With Depression From Opiate Withdrawal
So, how do you deal with depression when you are overcoming opiate addiction? There are many ways to deal with depression. If you have already overcome the physical addiction, chances are your depression will start to lift as well. You may have been traumatized by the addiction and withdrawal from opiates but taking some positive steps will help you overcome the mental problems. Here are some ideas to help with depression from opiate withdrawal:
Get involved in fun activities
If you are having trouble finding things to do, try contacting your friends. You may be surprised that some of the people you used to do opiates with are now trying to get clean as well.
Make sure you are getting enough sleep each day
Sleep deprivation can lead to depression, so getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night ensures you get enough sleep at night. It goes without saying that exercise is good for you. It gets the blood moving and the endorphins going. You will feel better after a workout.
Eat healthily
Junk food and fast food can lead to depression. Eating a diet high in sugar and sodium will leave you feeling worse than before.
Take vitamins
Vitamin deficiencies can lead to depression, especially B-12. Getting your daily requirement of vitamin B-12 will help you feel better.
Take antidepressants
Antidepressants are used to help people deal with depression. If you feel like you need medication, talk to your doctor about it.
Don’t give up
Even if you do not feel better right away, know about options. There are people you can talk to if you have trouble getting better.
Stay hydrated
Getting plenty of fluids in your body is one of the most important things you can do. Dehydration can lead to depression and many other issues. Many times, when people feel depressed, they stop drinking fluids. Try to stay hydrated with water or a sports drink.
Use holistic techniques to complement conventional medical detox procedures
Massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation may help with depression. Both massage and acupuncture have been shown to release dopamine in the brain. Yoga and meditation have both been linked to increased serotonin levels. Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into targeted areas on the body and has been approved by the World Health Organization for use in clinical depression, alcohol, and opiate addiction. Massage therapy involves manipulating the soft tissue in the body to release built-up stress. It has been linked to decreased depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Some studies have even indicated that massage therapy is just as effective as medication for depression.
Participate in relaxation techniques
Learning to relax the body can help you deal with depression. Mentally, knowing how to relax can help you get through stressful or depressive times. There are many relaxation techniques to try. Here are some ideas:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing exercises
- Yoga
- Getting a massage or acupuncture treatment
- Writing in a diary
- Play a musical instrument
Consult With Your Doctor
Finally, do not forget to consult with your doctor. Some people may need medication while detoxing from opiates or heroin. Opiate withdrawal is uncomfortably difficult, and you do not have to go through it alone. Your doctor can help you feel better during your opiate detox. Have you been suffering from opiate withdrawal’s depressive effects? We can assist you. Call us at 833-680-0165 and speak with a helpful representative.