The term “dope sick” is a slang expression used to describe the intense and often unbearable symptoms of opioid withdrawal. For people who have become dependent on prescription painkillers, heroin or synthetic drugs like fentanyl, going without them for even a short time can trigger a range of physical and psychological symptoms that make quitting exceptionally difficult.
At PACE Recovery, we understand how overpowering opioid addiction can be. Many young men want to stop using but find themselves trapped in a cycle of withdrawal and relapse. The symptoms are painful, terrifying and can feel nearly impossible to overcome.
Why Opioids Are So Addictive
Opioids bind to receptors in the brain and nervous system, reducing pain and creating a sense of euphoria. Over time, you’ll become physically and psychologically dependent, needing to take more drugs to feel “normal.”
Even if you sincerely want to stop using drugs, your body may send urgent distress signals the moment the opioids begin leaving your system. This reaction is what people refer to as being dope sick.
Symptoms of Being Dope Sick
Opioid withdrawal typically begins within hours of the last dose and can last for several days. The symptoms range from extremely uncomfortable to medically dangerous, and they often mirror severe flu-like illness, combined with extreme anxiety and emotional distress.
- Muscle aches and body pain
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- Chills and sweating
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Increased heart rate and high blood pressure
- Intense anxiety, agitation or panic
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Powerful cravings for opioids
These symptoms are a significant barrier to recovery. Many people relapse because they are desperate to feel relief from the agony of withdrawal.
It’s Dangerous to Quit Opioids Without Help
Trying to quit opioids on your own can be risky for several reasons.
- Withdrawal is unpredictable: Symptom severity can vary based on how long and how heavily you’ve used, plus the presence of any underlying health conditions.
- The cravings can be overwhelming: People who lack appropriate coping strategies are extremely vulnerable to relapse.
- Relapse increases overdose risk: Detoxing decreases your tolerance. Returning to your previous dose might overwhelm your body, leading to overdose or death.
The safest and most effective way to stop using opioids is through medically supervised detox, immediately followed by residential, transitional or intensive outpatient treatment.
Effective Addiction Treatment for Young Men
Overcoming opioid addiction requires a comprehensive, compassionate approach that addresses the underlying reasons for substance use. We take a multipronged approach to helping young men break free from opioid addiction.
1. Safe, Supportive Detox
Medically supervised detoxification lets you begin recovering in a structured, trigger-free environment where professionals will monitor your symptoms and ease discomfort as necessary.
2. Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
Many people who use opioids also struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma or other mental health conditions. We treat addiction and co-occurring disorders with integrated, evidence-based care.
3. Individual and Group Therapy
Through counseling and group support, our clients learn to:
- Manage cravings and triggers
- Develop healthy coping skills
- Rebuild self-esteem and emotional awareness
- Create a new sense of identity beyond addiction
4. Purpose-Driven Living
Recovery requires building a life you don’t want to escape from. PACE provides opportunities for our clients to re-engage with academics, fitness and sober social activities like hiking and surfing in beautiful Orange County, California.
You Don’t Have to Be Dope Sick Forever
Being dope sick is one of the most painful experiences someone can endure – but it doesn’t have to be your future. Reach out to us today and discover a new life free from addiction.
