Painkiller Addiction

Find Painkiller Addiction Treatment in Maryland and Break the Cycle

Prescription painkillers are supposed to help you heal. But for many people, they quietly take over.

At TruHealing at Rutherford, we understand how painkiller addiction can start with a real medical need and spiral into something much more serious. Whether it began with an injury, a surgery, or chronic pain, you’re not alone, and you’re not to blame.

We offer addiction treatment that’s built on medical expertise, mental health care, and compassion. Our painkiller addiction treatment can help you heal and restore the connections in life that matter. Here, healing doesn’t come with judgment. It comes with support. Reach out today.

What started as a prescription to relieve pain is now a problem. Your life is fraying at the edges. You are not alone. We can help you regain control and find recovery.

What started as a prescription to relieve pain is now a problem. Your life is fraying at the edges. You are not alone. We can help you regain control and find recovery.

What Are Painkillers, and Why Are They Risky?

Painkillers are a type of medication often prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Almost all painkillers are opioids, although some people can become addicted to medications like gabapentin, which is used to treat nerve pain.

Commonly abused painkillers include:

  • Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
  • Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)
  • Morphine
  • Codeine
  • Fentanyl (including prescription patches)
  • Tramadol

These medications are powerful. They change how the brain perceives pain and how it experiences pleasure. Over time, the brain can stop producing its own pain relief chemicals, making you feel like you need the drug just to function.

How Does a Person Get Hooked on Painkillers?

Most people don’t plan to misuse prescription drugs. It can start with following a doctor’s orders, like taking painkillers after surgery or for back pain. But over time, your body builds tolerance. You might need more to feel the same relief. You may start taking pills more often, or in higher doses than prescribed.

Some people may begin using painkillers for emotional pain. Others may find themselves turning to pills to get through the day, avoid withdrawal symptoms, or simply feel “normal.”

It’s not a moral failure. It’s how these medications work. The brain adapts, and soon, it feels impossible to stop.

Signs and Symptoms of Painkiller Addiction

Understanding the signs and symptoms of painkiller addiction might help you determine when you or a loved one needs help. Here are some warning signs:

  • Taking more pills than prescribed or running out early
  • Going to multiple doctors for prescriptions (known as “doctor shopping”)
  • Hiding pill use from family or friends
  • Withdrawal symptoms like sweating, shaking, or nausea when not using
  • Changes in mood, sleep, or appetite
  • Losing interest in hobbies, work, or relationships
  • Feeling anxious or desperate when you don’t have access to the medication

If any of this sounds familiar, know that professional treatment and support can make recovery possible.

How Painkiller Addiction Affects the Whole Person

Addiction isn’t just about the drug. It affects every part of your life:

Physical

Long-term painkiller use can slow breathing, cause chronic constipation, increase the risk of overdose, and weaken your immune system.

Mental and Emotional

Opioid misuse can lead to mood swings, depression, anxiety, or emotional numbness. Over time, you may feel trapped in a cycle of guilt and hopelessness.

Social and Professional

You might isolate yourself from loved ones or struggle to keep up with work, school, or parenting responsibilities. Legal issues, job loss, or financial strain are common when addiction goes untreated.

But no matter how far things have gone, you can get your life back. Treatment works.

What Are the Benefits of Painkiller Addiction Treatment?

Getting professional help is one of the most important decisions you can make. With support and structure, you can:

  • Safely stop using painkillers without the fear of withdrawal
  • Regain control over your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
  • Improve physical and mental health
  • Reconnect with the people you love
  • Learn new ways to handle stress and pain
  • Build a future that doesn’t rely on pills

Here at TruHealing, we believe every person has the capacity to recover. We’re here to walk with you, step by step.

Levels of Care for Painkiller Addiction Treatment in Maryland

At TruHealing at Rutherford, we offer a full continuum of care so you can start where you are—and grow from there.

Medical Detox

For most people, treatment begins with medical detox. We help you stop using painkillers in a safe, supportive setting. Our 24/7 team can use medication assisted treatment (MAT) to reduce withdrawal symptoms and keep you comfortable during this first critical step.

Residential Treatment

Once detox is complete, some people benefit from a structured, live-in program. Residential treatment gives you time and space to focus completely on recovery. You’ll attend individual therapy, group sessions, and activities that help you rebuild your life from the inside out.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Our PHP program offers intensive treatment during the day but allows you to return home or to sober housing in the evenings. This level is ideal for those stepping down from residential care or needing more support than weekly therapy can provide.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

IOP is a flexible option that fits into your schedule. You’ll attend several therapy sessions per week while keeping up with work, school, or family life. It’s a powerful tool for building long-term recovery skills while staying connected to your everyday responsibilities.

Why Choose TruHealing at Rutherford

We don’t just treat addiction; we treat people. Our team includes licensed therapists, addiction specialists, and mental health professionals who understand the complex nature of painkiller misuse.

We offer:

  • Evidence-based therapy, including CBT, DBT, and trauma-focused care
  • MAT support with medications like Suboxone or Vivitrol when appropriate
  • Dual diagnosis care for co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD
  • Holistic supports like mindfulness, yoga, and creative therapies
  • A warm, welcoming environment rooted in dignity and respect

Whether this is your first time in treatment or you’ve tried before, TruHealing at Rutherford supports Maryland families and communities by providing compassionate, comprehensive addiction treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painkiller Addiction Treatment

Yes. Even when taken as prescribed, opioids like oxycodone or hydrocodone can be habit-forming. Over time, your body can build tolerance, making you feel like you need more to get the same relief.

If you’ve tried to stop but can’t, take more than prescribed, or feel anxious without pills, it may be time to seek help. Other signs include doctor shopping, hiding use, or struggling with work, relationships, or emotions.

Quitting suddenly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms, such as chills, vomiting, anxiety, or muscle pain. Medical detox can help you stop safely with support and medication when needed.

MAT stands for medication assisted treatment. It uses FDA-approved medications like Suboxone or Vivitrol to ease cravings and prevent relapse. Some people use it short-term, while others stay on it longer under medical supervision.

Yes. TruHealing Foundations offers flexible outpatient options like IOP and PHP, where you can attend therapy during the day and return home at night. We’ll help you find the level of care that fits your life.

Get In Touch

REQUEST A CALLBACK

Break the Cycle of Painkiller Addiction Today with TruHealing at Rutherford

You don’t have to live in pain, fear, or shame anymore.

If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription painkillers, reach out. TruHealing at Rutherford offers compassionate, expert care for painkiller addiction in Maryland. We’ll meet you where you are and help you find your way forward.

Call us today or verify your insurance to get started. Healing begins now.