Disclosure: I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Reckitt Benckiser Pharmaceuticals Inc. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.
There is a common misconception when it comes to opioid dependence (also known as opioid prescription painkiller and heroin addiction) that it only happens to people who are weak morals, have bad behavior, or poor judgment. The truth is, it can happen to ANYONE. Many who experience opioid dependence start taking opioid prescription pain killers for severe pain from an injury or surgery and are taking it exactly as prescribed, and they are blind-sided with their dependence.
The truth is opioid dependence is actually a chronic disease, and it affects more and more Americans each year. Over time, the opioid prescription painkillers actually alter the brain’s chemistry. They “reset” the brain so the body feels it needs opioid painkillers just to survive. It’s another common misconception that it is only psychological, but the body also sees it as a physical need as well much like food and water.
I have seen it happen to family members, and I have seen them fight it. I have seen them go back and forth and have ups and downs. It isn’t because of a flawed personality. It’s because they were being treated for legitimate pain problems, and it happened unsuspectedly. Because so much is not understood, though, and the stigma of being “bad” or “wrong” is so strong, many with opioid dependence are afraid to get help.
ResetReality.com is a resource where you can find information about opioid dependence. It has a variety of information to help you learn more about opioid dependence. It also has tools available like a symptom screener and a resource to find a doctor that is certified to treat opioid prescription painkiller and/or heroin addiction.
In addition to resources that provide information, Reset Reality also offers a community by sharing stories in their Words of Reality. Words of Reality shares the story of five people sharing their reality – including the testimonials from reality TV personality spokesperson Michael “The Situation” Sorrentino. It gives others the chance to share theirs as well.
I found Words of Reality to be really touching. It shows others that they’re not alone, that this can happen to anyone, and that they can reset their reality, too! All of the stories offered something unique as each person is unique. I was so inspired by both John’s and Karrie’s stories because I love how they not only reset their realities but then also decided to pursue a career to help others reset their reality as well! I think it’s wonderful that ALL of them are sharing their stories to help others see they are not alone and that they, too, can reset their reality!
If you or a loved one are experiencing opioid dependence, you’re not alone. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking it’s something you should hide. Instead, speak up, and get help! Reset Reality is a good place to start! If you suspect you or a loved one may be suffering from opioid dependence I found it very helpful that Reset Reality offers a Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Dependence page. There is help for this disease, and Reset Reality has information for finding it!