How to Quit Taking Pain Killers

Drug addiction takes many forms. Pain killers are one of the easiest to become addicted to, because many people start off innocently, taking pills prescribed to them by their doctor. When you become dependent on the effects of the pain killers to function, long after the source of pain has healed, you have become addicted. This article will show you how to get the help you need to quit taking pain killers and reclaim your life.

Instructions

• 1

  Admit that you are addicted to pain killers. While difficult to do, you cannot quit taking pills until you realize that there is a problem. Tell your family that you believe that you need help to quit and need their emotional support.

• 2

  Talk to your doctor immediately. Although your doctor may be the one who has supplied your pain killers, you will need medical help to quit. If your current doctor believes you still need the drug prescription, seek out a new doctor who is able to help.

• 3

  Find a drug rehabilitation program to help you quit. Depending on the severity of your addiction, you may need to go through detoxification. "Detox" is a process where you are weaned off of your pain killers gradually to minimize the effects of withdrawal symptoms. Drug rehabilitation may also include group therapy, psychotherapy, and possibly a stay at the program's facilities.

• 4

  Keep a journal to record your progress. Dealing with drug addiction is a lifelong process, and some days are harder to cope with than others. Write down how you did each day to bolster your confidence and to see how well you have improved.

• 5

  Join a drug addiction support group. Narcotics Anonymous is one such group where former addicts can come together to share their stories and provide encouragement on their path to sober living. Groups such as these will keep you accountable and on track as you strive to improve your life.