Before the arrival of fentanyl, the prescription medication OxyContin was perhaps the chief driver of the opioid epidemic. Even today, more than two million Americans continue to misuse this medication or an equivalent product each year. The essence of OxyContin misuse disorders is primarily physical in nature. However, the medication’s psychological effects also have a substantial negative impact. Effective OxyContin addiction treatment addresses both aspects of the problems affecting you. In this way, it provides well-rounded support for your recovery.
The Roots of the Psychological and Physiological Effects of OxyContin
What explains the combined psychological and physiological effects of OxyContin misuse? The answer to this question requires understanding how opioids impact your system. All humans have sites in their bodies called opioid receptors. These receptors are split between locations inside and outside your brain. They all have one thing in common. When you take an opioid, they allow that substance to affect your brain and your body.
It can be challenging to draw a line between the effects of OxyContin on the brain and body. That’s true because your brain and body are part of the same interconnected system. For example, when you take OxyContin, it slows down the nerve function inside your brain. In turn, this slowdown has bodily effects that include:
- Slower breathing
- A slowed heart rate
- Drowsiness
Changes in your brain also make you less sensitive to pain in your body.
Psychological Effects of OxyContin – The Impact of Euphoria
One of the most important psychological effects of OxyContin use is euphoria. This term describes an extreme state of pleasure that exceeds everyday experiences. Euphoria is often a key motivator for recurring OxyContin misuse. In turn, repeated medication abuse is a critical factor in opioid addiction.
Psychological Dependence on OxyContin
Another factor in OxyContin addiction is psychological dependence. This state is the mental counterpart to physical dependence. It makes you feel like you need to keep using the medication to maintain a sense of wellness. That’s true, even though addiction has the opposite effect. Dependence forms the root of classic addiction hallmarks such as:
- A compulsive search for more and more OxyContin to consume
- No longer caring about the damage your search causes you or anyone else
Part of this impact is physical. It’s also psychological in more ways than one.
Additional Psychological Impacts
OxyContin can also alter your psychological state in other ways. For example, misuse of the medication can leave you in a confused state. In addition, it can make it harder for you to pay attention. You may also find yourself feeling unusually depressed or anxious.
In fact, opioid use disorders may overlap with diagnosable depression. They may also coincide with a diagnosable anxiety disorder. If this happens to you, you not only need help with the psychological effects of OxyContin. You also need help with the psychological impact of the other disorder affecting you. You can find the required support in a customized recovery program. This kind of program can improve both your physical and mental well-being.
Learn More About the Psychological Effects of OxyContin at Northpoint Colorado
Want more information on the mental and physical impact of OxyContin misuse? The experts at Northpoint Colorado are standing by to assist you. With our help, you can get a complete picture of the effects of OxyContin on the brain and body.
Need OxyContin treatment? You’ll find it in Northpoint’s opioid addiction program. Our customized services support your attempts to quit misusing this medication. They also support your quest for long-term OxyContin abstinence. To get started, call us today 888.231.1281. We’re also available via our online contact form.