Do you know how fentanyl use affects your body and brain? Fentanyl is an addictive and dangerous substance that can lead to serious addiction and a high rate of overdose and death. If you or someone you know is taking fentanyl and may have an addiction, the best way to get the support you need is through an accredited addiction treatment program. 

The Right Step is a full-service addiction treatment center that welcomes anyone who is struggling with the effects of fentanyl abuse. Our inpatient and outpatient treatment programs utilize behavioral therapies, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in combination with holistic therapy and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This whole-person recovery experience can support your recovery no matter how severe the addiction. To enroll in our fentanyl addiction treatment program, call 17135283709 today to speak with someone from our team. 

How Does Fentanyl Affect the Body and Brain?

Fentanyl is a dangerous synthetic opioid that is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin as an analgesic. How does fentanyl affect the body and brain? Here are some of the long-term effects of fentanyl addiction:

• Physical effects — When you abuse fentanyl, you will experience pain relief, relaxation, sedation, and euphoria. It can also cause confusion, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and pupil restriction. 
• Psychological effects — The effects on the brain can be very disruptive. They include hallucinations and visual disturbances, strong cravings for fentanyl, depression, anxiety, and psychosis.

If you are taking fentanyl and abusing this narcotic, symptoms of fentanyl addiction include an increased tolerance to the drug, experiencing withdrawal when not using, neglecting work and school responsibilities, and attempting to quit but not succeeding. 

Treating Fentanyl Abuse

Fentanyl is safe to take when you receive a prescription for low-dose fentanyl. When you abuse fentanyl, that is when you run the risk of developing an addiction to this dangerous drug. If you are struggling with fentanyl abuse, here are some of the best methods for treating the effects of fentanyl.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Other types of behavioral therapies include:

• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
• Motivational interviewing (MI)
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)

CBT is one of the best methods of treating all types of addiction. It works by uncovering your symptoms and triggers and identifying which coping skills work best for you. You will have time to practice these coping skills in group therapy with others who are going through the same experience. 

Medication-Assisted Treatment

To ease fentanyl withdrawals, medication is used to reduce addiction withdrawals, cravings, and other disruptive symptoms. Medical staff will administer medications based on your treatment program and monitor you for any adverse reactions. As your symptoms fade, so will the need for the medication, and you will be tapered off until no longer necessary. 

Life Skills Training

Addiction is a challenging disease that can deeply impact your life, often creating further obstacles to recovery. Life skills training plays a crucial role in overcoming these challenges by equipping individuals with practical tools for daily living. This includes guidance on nutrition, meal planning, and cooking healthy foods, as well as essential skills like managing finances and securing stable employment.

Family Therapy

Family therapy is included in your treatment plan to address any issues that may still be ongoing at home. All family members will have a chance to talk with a therapist to resolve any lingering issues and how they can become part of the recovery experience. They will even learn how to create a stable and supportive home environment for your continued recovery. 

Enroll in Our Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Program Today at The Right Step

If you are struggling with an addiction to fentanyl or other opioids, The Right Step offers the treatment program that you need. Enroll today in our fentanyl addiction treatment program by calling 17135283709 or contacting our team online.