Patients in opioid use disorder treatment will find themselves going through a rollercoaster of feelings and emotions when they first enroll and begin healing. With the help of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), the most painful parts of transitioning from opioid user to opioid treatment patient are handled, primarily the uncomfortable symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Still, secondary side effects can make the healing process more difficult for some patients, especially when it comes to chronic fatigue.
MAT Effects on Energy
Although medication-assisted treatment uses FDA-approved medicine and is backed by decades of research and successful treatment results, there are still times where patients may feel frustrated by the healing process. The dopamine neurotransmitters in the brain that control the “reward pathway,” allowing the body to feel pleasure or content, have been damaged by excessive opioid misuse, causing an overload created by an external source that creates that “happy feeling” up to 1,000 times or more than the body can supply naturally.
Rediscovering Inner Energy
Studies have shown that dopamine levels can revive within the brain after four months of treatment, but every patient has their own experience. Patients in MAT will not feel too many side effects once their dosage is figured out, but they will begin to rediscover their bodies and minds without being under the influence of the substances they once misused.
However, rebuilding energy can take some time during the healing process. Patients may find themselves napping often and feeling an overall lack of liveliness. That is entirely expected, and there are also a couple of ways patients can learn to regain energy throughout these times.
Tips for Regaining Energy
While medication works to relieve the chemical effects of opioids, patients are encouraged to seek out ways to address secondary side effects like low energy through their own discovery.
Do Nothing. Sometimes the body needs to rest. In opioid recovery, this remains especially true. There is no use in pushing the body to perform while it is deeply healing. Patients are encouraged to listen to their bodies and rest as much as they need to.
Mind Nutrition. The body requires proper nutrients during its healing journey. Without a balanced diet that supplies the brain and body with essential vitamins and minerals, it is likely to feel depleted and not function at optimal levels.
Get Exercise. Although moving around is the last thing on someone’s mind when they are tired, a regular and moderate exercise routine can do wonders for energy levels. Rebuilding physical strength is a vital part of the recovery journey to elevate all-around wellness.
Sleep Deeply. Room temperature, light sources, electronics in the room, and other habits such as napping in the bedroom can affect sleep quality. The body needs REM sleep nightly to recover from the day before and to regenerate and heal.
The journey toward better health in recovery is possible, but the body may require some rest and rejuvenation along the way. Fatigue is a normal feeling, especially in the early stages of treatment, so patients are encouraged to take proactive measures to increase their energy levels in small and achievable ways.
Trust MedMark Treatment Centers for Addiction Treatment
MedMark Treatment Centers offers opioid use disorder treatment based on the most current addiction medicine. Our doctors and care team administer medication-assisted treatment using FDA-approved medications to allow participants to live their lives and engage with counseling and other recovery services. If you or a loved one need help to overcome opioid addiction, contact us today or visit our treatment centers for more information.
