Alarming Increase in Opioid-Induced Depression in Dallas: What You Need to Know!

MAT Texas is a comprehensive opioid treatment program in Dallas, Texas that is dedicated to helping those who are suffering from opioid-induced depression. We have developed a unique approach that combines medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with evidence-based psychotherapy to treat OID. MAT Texas offers a wide range of services including individual and group counseling, case management, and medication management. MAT Texas is designed to give individuals the support they need to make meaningful changes in their lives.

The goal of MAT Texas is to help individuals to manage their depression in an effective and safe manner. The MAT Texas program combines medication-assisted treatment with evidence-based psychotherapy to address the psychological aspects of depression brought on by opioid misuse. The medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is designed to reduce cravings, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and reduce the risk of relapse. The evidence-based psychotherapy helps individuals to learn new coping skills and to make healthier lifestyle choices.

What is Opioid-Induced Depression?

Opioid-induced depression is a type of depression caused by the use of opioid drugs. These drugs are commonly used to treat pain, but they can also cause a number of side effects, including depression. Depression resulting from the use of opioids is a serious mental health issue that is on the rise in Dallas due to the increase in prescription opioid use. According to the MAT Texas program, OID is a major concern for those who are using opioids to manage chronic pain, as it can lead to a host of other health problems.

Prevalence of Opioid-Induced Depression in Dallas

The prevalence of opioid-induced depression in Dallas is increasing due to the increase in prescription opioid use for pain management. The rate of opioid-induced depression in Dallas has more than tripled in the past decade. In addition, the rate of chronic opioid misuse is also on the rise in Dallas, which is a major contributor to the increase in OID.

Causes of Opioid-Induced Depression in Dallas

The causes of OID depression are largely related to increased prescription opioid use for chronic pain patients. Misusing prescribed opioids can lead to OID, which can cause feelings of depression. In addition, people who are taking opioid drugs for long-term pain management are at an increased risk of developing OID due to the prolonged use of the drugs. The prolonged use of opioids can lead to physical dependence, which can lead to feelings of depression.

Types of Opioids and Receptors Associated with Opioid-Induced Depression

Opioids are a type of drug that is derived from the opium poppy plant. Opioids help with chronic pain work by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and body, blocking the transmission of pain signals and providing a feeling of euphoria. There are three main types of opioids: prescription opioids, semi-synthetic opioids, and street opioids.

Opioid Prescription

Prescription opioid analgesics are drugs that are approved by the FDA and are used to treat moderate to severe pain. These drugs are prescribed by a doctor and include drugs like oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and codeine. These drugs are usually only available with a prescription and are meant to be taken in low doses and for a short period of time.

Semi-Synthetic Opioids

Semi-synthetic opioids are drugs that are created by combining natural and synthetic components. These drugs include drugs like hydromorphone and hydrocodone. They are used to treat moderate to severe pain, but they are more powerful than prescription opioids. They are usually prescribed for short-term pain relief and are not meant to be taken for more than a few days.

Street Opioids

Opioids bought and sold on the street are drugs that are illegally made. They include drugs like heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil. These drugs are highly potent and can be extremely dangerous. They have no medical purpose and are not regulated, so their potency and purity can vary greatly.

Opioids are powerful drugs that can be very dangerous if not used properly. Prescription opioid analgesics, semi-synthetic opioids, and street opioids can all be very harmful if used in excess or without a doctor’s supervision. It is important to understand the risks associated with each type of opioid and to use them only as directed.

Symptoms of OID

Physical symptoms include feelings of sadness and hopelessness, lack of motivation, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, and changes in appetite. Other symptoms may include feelings of guilt and worthlessness, suicidal ideation, psychomotor retardation, and decreased libido. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of OID depression and to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms.

Mental Disorders Associated with OID

Major Depressive Disorder

Major depression, also known as clinical depression or major depressive disorder, is a serious and persistent mood disorder that can interfere with daily activities. It is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest, as well as physical and mental changes such as fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Symptoms can include changes in appetite, sleep, energy level, concentration, and self-esteem, as well as thoughts of suicide or death. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is the use of drugs or alcohol in a manner that interferes with a person’s physical, mental, emotional, or social functioning. It involves using a substance in amounts or by methods that are harmful to the user or to others. Prolonged opioid use can lead to drug addiction, health problems, and social issues, and can have a negative impact on relationships, work, and other areas of life. Common substances abused include alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, cocaine, hallucinogens, opioids, and stimulants. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

Mood disorders

A mood disorder is a mental illness that affects a person’s mood and emotions. Mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder can cause a wide range of symptoms, such as changes in mood, energy level, sleep, and appetite. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

Opioid Use Disorder

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is a chronic disorder characterized by an overpowering desire to use opioids, increased opioid tolerance, and withdrawal syndrome when discontinued. It is a complex illness characterized by compulsive use of opioid drugs even when the person wants to stop, or when using the drugs causes harm. Symptoms of OUD include taking a street or prescription opioid in larger amounts or taking drugs over a longer period than intended, persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control opioid use, spending a great deal of time obtaining or using the opioid or recovering from its effects, continuing opioid use despite having recurring social or interpersonal problems, and using opioids in physically hazardous situations such as driving while under the influence of opiates. Treatment for OUD includes medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), counseling and behavioral therapies, and other supportive services.

Major Depression and Substance Abuse Associated with Opioid-Induced Depression Diagnosis

Opioid-induced depression is a type of depression that is caused by the long-term use of prescribed opioids recreationally or for chronic pain. It is characterized by symptoms such as sad mood, insomnia, feelings of guilt, suicidal ideation, psychomotor retardation, distractibility, and hopelessness. Studies have shown that opioid use is highly comorbid with major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety and stress-related disorders (ASRD). Research suggests that prescription opioid use can increase the risk of developing MDD and ASRD and that individuals with MDD and ASRD may be at an increased risk of developing opioid use disorder. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

Different Types of Medications Used for Treatment

Medications used to treat opioid-induced depression usually include a combination of antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and medications. Antidepressants can help to improve mood and reduce the symptoms of depression, while benzodiazepines can help to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Opioid medications such as methadone and suboxone can help to reduce pain and decrease the cravings associated with opioid use disorder. Non-pharmacological treatments, such as psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, may also be used to help manage opioid-induced depression.

Risk Factors for Opioid-Induced Depression

There are a variety of risk factors associated with opioid-induced depression in Dallas. Risk factors for OID include longer duration of opioid use, higher doses of opioids, misusing opioid medications, comorbid mental health disorders (such as depression and anxiety), a history of substance misuse, a family history of depression, and younger age.

Prevention of Opioid-Induced Depression

To prevent opioid-induced depression, it is important to use opioids only when absolutely necessary and to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible amount of time. It is also important to monitor for signs of depression, such as changes in mood, energy level, sleep, and appetite. It is also important to be aware of the risk factors for opioid-induced depression, to be aware of the medications used to treat OID, and to seek help when needed. Finally, it is important to ensure ready access to naloxone (Narcan), as this can help to reverse the effects of OID in the event of an overdose.

Opioid-Induced Respiratory depression (OIRD)

OIRD is a potentially lethal side effect of opioid use that occurs when opioids depress the brain’s breathing centers. Common symptoms of OIRD include slow and shallow breathing, followed by a decrease in oxygen levels in the body. OIRD can be caused by taking too much of an opioid, taking opioids in combination with other substances that depress the central nervous system, or taking opioids for an extended period of time. Fentanyl-induced respiratory depression is extremely prevalent in the opioid epidemic in America. OIRD can also happen if you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. To reduce the risk of OIRD, it is important to take opioids only as prescribed, not to take them in combination with other substances, and to seek medical attention if breathing problems occur.

Statistics of Opioid-Involved Overdose Deaths

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were nearly 92,000 drug-involved overdose deaths in the US in 2020, with 70.3% of those deaths involving opioids. Synthetic opioids were the primary driver of opioid-involved overdose deaths, accounting for 82.3% of all opioid-involved overdose deaths. Heroin was involved in 42.2% of opioid-involved overdose deaths, and prescription opioids were involved in 31.9% of opioid-involved overdose deaths. Opioid-involved overdose deaths rose from 21,088 in 2010 to 47,600 in 2017 and remained steady in 2018 with 46,802 deaths. This was followed by a significant increase through 2020 to 68,630 overdose deaths.

MAT Texas is Here for you!

If you or someone you love living in Texas is struggling with OID, or new-onset depression while using opioids, contact MAT Texas today. We offer comprehensive treatment and support services for individuals and families affected by fentanyl, opioid prescriptions, addiction, and misuse. Our team of highly trained professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that is tailored to the individual’s needs.