Codeine rehab

Codeine can be an effective painkiller which provides much-needed relief for those suffering from chronic pain or recovering from surgeries. However, like many medications, codeine also carries a potential for misuse and prescription drug addiction. If you or your loved one are facing the struggles of dependency, know that there is help available. Codeine rehab provides a welcoming, supportive environment where you can safely overcome codeine addiction and start your journey towards recovery.

What is codeine rehab?

Codeine rehab is a specialised form of opioid rehab and is widely accepted to be the most effective form of treatment to overcome addiction. It is based on well-established, proven recovery principles and involves a number of stages, including detox, therapy and aftercare.

Oasis Runcorn’s codeine rehab treatment is provided as an inpatient programme where you will stay in our centre for the duration of your treatment. There are a number of advantages to inpatient codeine rehab, including:

• Sanctuary from everyday stressors and addictive triggers
• Access to medical professionals who can help manage your codeine withdrawal symptoms, Therapeutic support to help you understand and cope with your addiction
• Tools to prevent relapse in the future
• A community of other people in recovery, providing both immediate emotional support and the opportunity to foster lifelong friendships

Codeine rehab challenges

Codeine rehab, like any significant lifestyle change, will undoubtedly present challenges. Let’s take a look at some common obstacles and how to navigate them:

• Codeine withdrawal symptoms: Codeine withdrawal symptoms can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally challenging. However, these symptoms are temporary, and with medical supervision, they can be managed effectively.
• Emotional ups and downs: Addiction often serves as a coping mechanism for underlying emotional issues. Confronting these without the crutch of codeine can be tough, but therapy and support groups can help you navigate these emotions.
• Codeine cravings: The desire to use codeine, particularly during stressful times, can be incredibly strong. Coping mechanisms learned in therapy, along with the support from your rehab community, can be invaluable in managing these cravings.
• Lifestyle changes: Rehab may require significant changes to your daily routines, social circles and even hobbies. Embrace these changes as positive steps towards a healthier, codeine-free life.
• Fear of failure: It’s natural to fear relapse, but in codeine rehab, your therapists will help you to devise a relapse prevention plan to prepare you for the transition back to your everyday life.

Do you need codeine rehab?

Determining if you need professional help can be a challenging step. Take this self-check quiz to help clear up any doubts or denial that may be preventing you from reaching out:

• Do you find it difficult to stop using codeine, even when you want to?
• Have you ever lied about or hidden your codeine use?
• Has your use of codeine negatively impacted important relationships or responsibilities?
• Do you experience cravings, physical discomfort or codeine withdrawal symptoms when you stop using codeine?
• Do you keep using codeine despite these issues?

If you’ve answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it may be time to consider codeine rehab.

Codeine detox and its physical health benefits

Codeine detox is the first phase of your recovery journey and involves the removal of codeine from your body. This is when you will experience codeine withdrawal symptoms; however, a supervised detox at a rehab facility like Oasis Runcorn will ensure you are safe and as comfortable as possible during this challenging phase.

Detoxing from codeine not only serves to break the physical dependence on the drug but also sets the foundation for improved physical health. Once the drug is eliminated from your system, you will begin to notice physical improvements such as better sleep, increased energy levels, improved appetite and digestion and overall improved health and vitality.

How to detox from codeine safely

Detox from codeine usually starts with a thorough medical assessment. This helps the medical team understand your physical health, the extent of your codeine use and any potential complications that might arise during detox.

Following this, a personalised detox plan is developed, which may involve a gradual reduction of codeine to minimise withdrawal symptoms, alongside medical monitoring to ensure your safety. Codeine detox can vary in length, depending on your history of codeine use and overall health.

Medication can also be provided to ease the discomfort of codeine withdrawal symptoms, allowing you to focus more fully on your recovery journey.

Codeine withdrawal symptoms

Codeine withdrawal can be an uncomfortable process, but understanding what to expect can make it less daunting. Withdrawal symptoms of codeine and timeline can vary but typically include:

• Restlessness and anxiety
• Irritability
• Increased heart rate
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Chills

How long does codeine withdrawal take?

While there are variations from person to person, a typical codeine withdrawal timeline will look something like this:

• First 24 hours: Codeine withdrawal symptoms typically begin within a few hours of your last codeine dose and can include anxiety, restlessness and body aches.
• Days 2-3: This is often the peak of codeine withdrawal symptoms which may include the above, as well as nausea, vomiting and insomnia.
• Days 4-7: During this period, the physical codeine withdrawal symptoms typically begin to subside, but you may still experience psychological symptoms like anxiety and cravings.
• Week 2 and beyond: Almost all physical codeine withdrawal symptoms should now be over, but some lingering cravings and psychological symptoms may still exist. These can continue for weeks or months but tend to decrease in intensity over time. If your symptoms persist, a condition known as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), ongoing medical support will be needed.

Keep in mind that this codeine withdrawal timeline is a rough guide and that it’s always best to detox under medical supervision to manage these symptoms and any potential complications.

Codeine rehab therapy

Codeine dependency often has deep psychological roots, which is why therapy forms a critical part of codeine rehab. At Oasis Runcorn, our codeine rehab programmes involve a diverse range of therapies to address the various aspects of codeine use and reliance. These include:

• Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) – This therapy technique combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to your codeine use to prevent relapse.
• Group therapy – Under the guidance of a trained therapist, group therapy allows you to connect with others on the same journey. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can be incredibly beneficial for mental health and long-term codeine recovery.
• Family therapy – These special sessions can help rebuild damaged relationships and create a supportive home environment, which is crucial for maintaining sobriety post-codeine rehab.

Holistic codeine rehab therapies

Holistic therapies aim to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms of codeine abuse and dependence. They often play an essential role in codeine rehab by helping to manage stress, reduce cravings and improve overall well-being.

Yoga, mindfulness and meditation can promote relaxation and self-awareness, helping you manage triggers and cravings. Art therapy and music therapy provide creative outlets for expressing emotions and can be incredibly therapeutic. Physical exercise, like daily walks can boost mood, reduce stress and improve physical health.

These holistic approaches, combined with traditional therapies, create a well-rounded treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your well-being.

Effective tips for preventing codeine relapse

Relapse prevention is integral to codeine rehab, as returning home after treatment can be a difficult transition. Here are some tips to help you maintain your sobriety:

1. Develop healthy coping strategies…

Stress can be a significant trigger for codeine relapse. Learn and practise healthy coping mechanisms like deep breathing, exercise, meditation or speaking to a supportive friend.

2. Avoid codeine triggers…

Identifying situations or individuals that trigger your codeine use and finding ways to avoid them can be a proactive step towards preventing relapse.

3. Stay active in aftercare…

Regularly attending aftercare sessions provides ongoing support and reinforces your recovery skills. Oasis Runcorn offers group therapy sessions every week for a year to help you stay the course and extend the sense of community after codeine rehab.

4. Maintain a balanced lifestyle…

Ensuring a balanced lifestyle, including a healthy diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep and time for leisure, can all help keep codeine cravings at bay.

5. Reach out for help…

If you feel yourself on the brink of relapse, don’t hesitate to reach out to your support network or a healthcare professional. It’s okay to ask for help; you don’t have to face these challenges alone.

Get started with codeine rehab today

Recovery can be a difficult journey, but with the right help, support and tools, you can move towards a healthier, happier life free of codeine. Contact us at Oasis Runcorn today and begin codeine rehab at a time that is convenient for you. Our dedicated team can help you make meaningful changes and build a future full of opportunities.

Frequently asked questions