How Opioid Abuse Affects Personality
Opioids are powerful for controlling pain, but too often they are abused. This can lead to dependence and addiction, and as that happens, a person’s personality can change. At LA Pain Doctor, we help patients and families in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA recognize these changes and find support.
Request an AppointmentWhy Personality Changes Happen
Opioids affect the brain’s reward system by releasing chemicals that create feelings of pleasure and relief. With repeated misuse, the brain begins to rely on opioids to feel normal. Getting and using the drug can become a top priority, crowding out other interests and responsibilities. Over time, these changes in brain chemistry can affect mood, judgment, and behavior.
Common Personality and Behavior Changes
- Mood swings, irritability, or sudden anger
- Anxiety, depression, or emotional numbness
- Secrecy, lying, or defensiveness about medication use
- Loss of interest in hobbies, work, or family
- Withdrawing from friends and social activities
- Poor decision-making and risk-taking
- Changes in sleep, energy, and personal hygiene
- Financial or legal problems
The Impact on Relationships
These changes can strain relationships with spouses, children, friends, and coworkers. Loved ones may feel confused, hurt, or worried. It is important to remember that addiction is a medical condition, and recovery is possible with the right support.
How to Help Yourself or a Loved One
If you notice these changes in yourself or someone you care about, reach out for help. Talk to a healthcare provider, or call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential support 24/7. If someone shows signs of overdose, such as slow breathing or unresponsiveness, call 911 right away.
Safer Pain Management
LA Pain Doctor focuses on treating pain at its source to reduce reliance on opioids. Options include lumbar epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, medial branch blocks, cervical facet radiofrequency neurotomy, and spinal cord stimulator implants. Learn more about opioid misuse, opioids and depression, tapering opioid use safely, and our pain medication management program.
Opioid Abuse and Personality FAQs
Can opioid abuse change someone’s personality?
Yes. Changes in brain chemistry from opioid abuse can affect mood, judgment, and behavior.
What are signs of opioid abuse in a loved one?
Mood swings, secrecy, withdrawal from activities, changes in sleep, and financial problems can be signs.
Are personality changes permanent?
Many changes improve with treatment and recovery, though healing takes time.
How can I help a loved one?
Express concern without judgment, encourage professional help, and contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
Is addiction a medical condition?
Yes. Addiction is a medical condition that can be treated.
What should I do in an overdose emergency?
Call 911 immediately and give naloxone if it is available.
Can LA Pain Doctor help with pain without opioids?
Yes. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to explore non-opioid options at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Find Safer Ways to Manage Pain
Our team can help you explore pain relief that doesn’t rely on opioids. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.