The Emotional Toll of Addiction

Living with opioid use disorder (OUD) is emotionally taxing. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), people with OUD or another substance use disorder often live with a mental health condition as well.¹

The journey to recovery is not just about physical healing. It is also about addressing the emotional struggles that come with addiction. Understanding and learning how to cope with difficult feelings is vital to getting better.¹

Getting treatment for OUD can improve your mental health. And when your mental health is in a stable place, you are more likely to stick to your treatment plan and stay committed to your recovery journey.¹

Mental health support

There is no question that addiction affects mental health. And mental health challenges can lead a person to use opioids. This can result in a vicious cycle.¹

Many people with OUD feel angry, anxious, depressed, or hopeless. These feelings are incredibly common. They can also make recovery harder.¹

Along with taking medications for OUD, also called MOUD, experts highly recommend doing some form of therapy as part of an OUD treatment plan. Therapists and counselors are trained professionals who will listen without judgment. They can teach you ways to manage stress and handle tough emotions.^1,2

Support groups can also be helpful. In these groups, you can share your experiences with others who understand what you are going through. You can also learn from their stories.¹

If you need medicine to help with mental health, talk to your doctor. Medicine can treat depression or anxiety, and it can work well alongside therapy. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your body.¹

Support people

The support people in your life can play a big role in your recovery. Their love and encouragement can make you feel less alone. Research shows that people with family support are more likely to commit to staying sober.³

However, addiction can also strain relationships. Sometimes, family members do not know how to help or may feel hurt by past actions.⁴

Open communication is key. Talk to your family and support people about how you are feeling and what you need from them. At the same time, listen to their concerns. Family therapy can help everyone understand each other better. It can also help repair trust.³

If your family does not feel supportive right now, focus on building a "chosen family." These are friends, mentors, or other support people who care about you and want to see you succeed. Having people you can rely on makes the road to recovery less lonely.⁴

Facing stigma and breaking down shame

Stigma is a huge challenge for people with OUD. OUD is the most stigmatized health condition in the world.^5,6

Stigma means placing unfair and judgmental labels or stereotypes on a person. It is a form of discrimination. Many people do not understand OUD and addiction. That may lead them to treat those who are living with these conditions or in recovery unfairly.^5,6

A common misconception is that addiction is a personal failure. People may think a person with OUD simply lacks the willpower to stop using drugs. In reality, OUD is a serious medical condition that deserves to be treated like any other disease.^5,6

Stigma can come from the general public. But it also can come from healthcare providers treating those with OUD and other substance use disorders. Feelings of pity, anger, fear, or wanting to distance oneself from someone with OUD are common.^5-7

Facing stigma from others can lead to feelings of shame, which can make it harder to seek help. Reducing stigma is critical to getting people living with OUD the treatment they need. They should be treated with dignity and respect. Using person-first language is a crucial step toward destigmatizing OUD.^6,7

Education is key

Remember that opioid use disorder is a chronic medical condition. It is not a moral failing. If you are dependent on opioids, you are not "weak" or "bad."

Educating yourself and others about addiction can undo common misconceptions and help change negative attitudes. Sharing your story, if you feel comfortable, can also break down stereotypes. It helps to show others that recovery is possible.^5-7

Finding hope in recovery

Recovering from OUD is not easy. But it is possible. By addressing your mental health, leaning on supportive relationships, and helping to reverse stigma, you can heal emotionally and physically. Recovery is a journey, and every step forward is something to be proud of. Take things one day at a time.

Remember, too, that you are not alone. Try to surround yourself with people who support your recovery. Avoid those who judge or criticize you. Focus on your progress, and celebrate small victories.⁴