Narcotics Anonymous: Facts About the Group

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Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope

For countless individuals across the country, experiencing physical pain is a reality that is dealt with on a daily basis. A common method of effectively treating physical ailments and pain is through the use of narcotic medications. Narcotics are a type of prescription painkiller that is used for the management of severe pain that may not be helped by other types of painkillers.

Also known as opioid pain relievers, narcotics function by blocking the sensation of pain by binding to receptor sites in the brain. Common types of narcotics that may be available by a physician prescription include the following:

  • Oxycodone drugs, including Percocet, OxyContin, and Percodan
  • Codeine
  • Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
  • Morphine
  • Fentanyl
  • Tramadol
  • Hydrocodone

Painkillers Can Be Extremely Addictive

While narcotic prescription medications can be helpful in managing severe pain, these drugs are also highly addictive. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, painkillers are one of the most abused types of prescription medications1.

A person struggling with pain may become both physically and psychologically dependent on these powerful medications, forming an addiction that is extremely difficult to break.

If you or a loved one has been dealing with an addiction to narcotics as a result of underlying pain, it is important to know that there is hope for healing and restoration in you life. One essential aspect of recovery from addiction is becoming connected to a support group and to other individuals who can encourage you in your journey.

Recovering From Narcotics and Maintaining Recovery

Friends Meeting in City SquareNarcotics Anonymous is a twelve-step based program that provides help for recovery from peers as well as an ongoing support network for addicts who wish to pursue and maintain a drug-free lifestyle2. Membership in a Narcotics Anonymous support group is completely free, and meetings are available across the world.

While support groups are not a substitute for professional treatment for narcotic addiction, having ongoing support can be a practical way to ensure the continuation of your recovery journey and sobriety.

Being able to connect to other peers and mentors who understanding the struggles, joys, challenges, and obstacles you may be facing can be your key to a strong foundation in recovery from narcotic addiction.

Community Discussion – Share Your Thoughts Here!

What has been your experience with Narcotics Anonymous? How has this support group helped your recovery from Narcotics?

 
References:

  1. “Popping Pills: Prescription Drug Abuse in America”, National Institute on Drug Abuse, http://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/infographics/popping-pills-prescription-drug-abuse-in-america
    Accessed 15 April 2015
  2. Narcotics Anonymous Support Grou,p, https://www.na.org/?ID=PR-index
    Accessed 15 April 2015

Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on May 1st, 2015
Published on AddictionHope.com