Recognizing Fentanyl Addiction

What are the Signs of Fentanyl Addiction?

Fentanyl addiction is a serious health problem that can have devastating consequences. It is characterized by a number of signs, including significant changes in sleeping patterns, unexpected weight loss, poor concentration, slowed reflexes, mood swings, cravings for fentanyl or other opioids, and problems with personal relationships and social activities. Continued use despite adverse effects on physical health and mental well-being is also a common sign.

• Changes in Sleeping Patterns: One of the first signs of fentanyl addiction is a significant change in sleeping patterns. This could mean sleeping too much or too little, or having problems sleeping altogether.
• Unexpected Weight Loss: Fentanyl can suppress appetite, leading to sudden and unexpected weight loss. This is often a clear indicator of substance misuse.
• Cravings for Fentanyl: An intense desire or craving for fentanyl or other opioids is a strong sign of addiction. This often leads to continued use despite negative consequences.

How Does Fentanyl Affect Mental Well-being?

Fentanyl can have a profound impact on mental well-being. It can cause mood swings, depression, and agitation. These changes in mood and behavior can strain personal relationships and social activities, further isolating the individual and exacerbating the addiction.

• Mood Swings: Fentanyl can cause drastic mood swings, with individuals feeling euphoric one moment and extremely depressed the next. This can be very distressing for both the individual and their loved ones.
• Depression: Long-term use of fentanyl can lead to depression. This is because the drug alters the brain’s chemistry, disrupting the natural balance of mood-regulating chemicals.
• Agitation: Fentanyl can also cause agitation. This can manifest as restlessness, irritability, or even aggressive behavior.

What are the Physical Signs of Fentanyl Addiction?

Physical signs of fentanyl addiction include poor concentration, slowed reflexes, and continued use despite adverse effects on health. These signs are often noticeable to others and can serve as a warning that the individual is struggling with addiction.

• Poor Concentration: Fentanyl can affect cognitive function, leading to poor concentration and focus. This can impact an individual’s ability to perform tasks and engage in daily activities.
• Slowed Reflexes: Fentanyl can slow down the body’s reflexes, making the individual appear sluggish or uncoordinated. This is a clear physical sign of fentanyl misuse. Fentanyl often causes drowsiness and confusion.
• Continued Use Despite Adverse Effects: Despite experiencing negative health effects, individuals addicted to fentanyl often continue to use the drug. This is a clear sign of addiction.

Britney Elyse

Britney Elyse has over 15 years experience in mental health and addiction treatment. Britney completed her undergraduate work at San Francisco State University and her M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University. Britney worked in the music industry for several years prior to discovering her calling as a therapist. Britney’s background in music management, gave her first hand experience working with musicians impacted by addiction. Britney specializes in treating trauma using Somatic Experiencing and evidence based practices. Britney’s work begins with forming a strong therapeutic alliance to gain trust and promote change. Britney has given many presentations on somatic therapy in the treatment setting to increase awareness and decrease the stigma of mental health issues. A few years ago, Britney moved into the role of Clinical Director and found her passion in supervising the clinical team. Britney’s unique approach to client care, allows us to access and heal, our most severe cases with compassion and love. Prior to join the Carrara team, Britney was the Clinical Director of a premier luxury treatment facility with 6 residential houses and an outpatient program