When a Doctor Needs Help with Addiction
Drug abuse among the population is on the rise as is well known, especially with the recent problems with prescription painkillers often leading to heroin overdose and even death.
What most people don’t realize is that doctors, per statistics are prone to drug and alcohol abuse. The addiction rate of the general population is estimated to be from 8-10%; and among physicians, the rates start at 10% and rise to 15%. What makes the difference it seems is the stress of their profession as well as the abundant access to addictive drugs.
Seeking Relief Like Anyone Else
There has been much said about physician burnout, as well as the depression and anxiety that can come with the pressures of their job. The urge to find relief for what ails you is a common mechanism in all populations. In the case of doctors, that’s often prescription medication. A 2013 study in the Journal of Addiction Medicine revealed that 69% of doctors abused prescription medicine to “relieve stress and physical or emotional pain.” As with all addiction, the effects of the “relief” from these medications wear off quickly and one is tempted to use them again and again and again. Once one goes down this road he or she is hooked before they know it.
Unlike other professions, a doctor has access to many medications that are not only addictive but can be life threatening. Whether they are from endless samples that pharmaceutical companies are handing out to them, old prescriptions that people bring in to dispose of or, worse case scenario, the doctor writes his own prescriptions. It is unfortunate if that occurs as he will get into criminal charges and probably risk his license. But before they go that route, they can usually get a “colleague” to write them a prescription.
Taking Action Could Save Lives
Addiction is deadly in any profession, but when one is entrusted with the health and safety of the public, it can have deadly consequences for more then just one. When such addiction happens in this profession, one should get help immediately. However, it appears that they do not come forward, as is obvious from numerous headlines in the media of drug addicts in the profession. Perhaps it is the risk of losing their license coupled with other liability issues. However, it is no excuse, if you find yourself wondering about your recent doctor’s visit, or ignore the smell of alcohol on his breath, you are not only doing yourself a huge disservice, but potentially hundreds of others. The solution could be as simple as letting someone close to him know of your suspicions, so they can be assisted with the utmost care and confidentiality.
At Narconon Ojai, we have helped many professionals in the medical field with addiction issues. They, like any other individual, need help and deserve it. With our experience in handling such cases, we understand the compassion needed to give them the helping hand needed to come to realize their addiction can be handled.
One must realize no matter what profession, gender, race or religion, never be too proud to ask for help for yourself or a loved one. You are not alone. Hope is just around the corner. There are trained professionals standing by to answer your questions and offer that helping hand. Call now for a confidential interview to see what can be done, today! Call 866-292-4503.
