Welcome! Talking about opioids is a challenge. They are drugs with various therapeutic uses, but unfortunately, they have gained notoriety for their association with chemical dependence, overdose, and even death.

In this article, the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis invites you on a journey into the world of opioids, seeking to understand their history, effects, risks, and impacts on public health.

We will clarify concepts and demystify prejudices. We will cover what opioids are, explain their main types and applications, and provide a detailed analysis of the risks and impacts of these substances on public health. And more: what we can do to help those who struggle with dependence on these substances.

We hope to contribute with clarifications on a topic that is often shrouded in mystery and misinformation.

You might be wondering: what does Clinical Hypnosis have to do with all this, right? Get ready to discover how this powerful tool can be an ally in treating opioid dependence.

If you are looking to help people who are in an intense battle against opioid dependence or want to deepen your knowledge on the subject, this article is for you! Shall we begin?

Clarifying What Opioids Are

Before we start talking about hypnosis in the fight against opioids, it is essential to understand what these compounds are. Opioids are a class of medications used primarily to relieve pain. They act on the nervous system, helping to reduce the physical discomfort of patients in various situations.

Their discovery dates back thousands of years, with the use of the opium poppy by different civilizations. This natural plant is rich in opioid compounds, and its analgesic effect has been used since ancient times to alleviate pain.

In a medical scenario, opioids can be prescribed for managing acute pain, post-operative pain, chronic pain, and even terminal pain, as seen in cancer patients. These compounds are powerful allies of medicine, but if used improperly, they can trigger dependence and a series of other health problems.

Opioids have a specific biochemical action: they bind to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing the perception of pain. Patients undergoing proper opioid treatment can resume daily activities, relieved from painful discomfort.

However, besides the analgesic effect, opioids can induce feelings of euphoria and well-being. Unfortunately, it is this characteristic that facilitates the abuse and dependence on these substances.

Now that we know what opioids are and how they work, it’s time to reflect on their complex relationship with public health and how clinical hypnosis can be a useful tool in this scenario. And, of course, remembering that the ethical and responsible use of tools like opioids and hypnosis is essential to promote patients’ health and well-being.

The History and Origin of Opioids

Opioids have been known to humanity for millennia. Their history begins in Mesopotamia around 3400 BC, where the poppy, the plant from which opium is extracted, was cultivated. This was the first record of the use of opium for pain relief and recreational purposes.

Around 330 BC, Alexander the Great took opium to India. The substance continued to spread throughout Europe during the Roman Empire. During the Middle Ages, opium was used in Arabic medicine, but its use in Europe was restricted due to the fall of the Roman Empire.

In the modern era, the first synthesis of an opioid, morphine, was made by Friedrich Sertürner in 1803. It was a powerful analgesic used to treat severe pain. And during the American Civil War, the administration of morphine to relieve war wound pain resulted in what is believed to have been the first drug epidemic.

Since then, several synthetic opioids have been developed, such as heroin and methadone. In the late 20th century, other medications were synthesized, such as fentanyl and carfentanil, which are considered the most potent and dangerous opioids available today. Thus, the warning remains: although opioids play an important role in pain relief, their misuse can lead to dependence and even death.

Understanding the Effects of Opioids on the Nervous System

When we talk about opioids, it is crucial to understand how these substances directly affect our central nervous system. They function as true keys that unlock a door called the opioid receptor, found in nervous system cells, the brain, and the gastrointestinal tract.

The “key” of an opioid fits perfectly into this cellular receptor. When this connection is made, a cellular communication occurs that results in the release of dopamine. This neurotransmitter, responsible for the sensation of pleasure and reward, makes the body feel an intense sense of euphoria and well-being.

But here comes a delicate issue: it is not only physical pain that activates these receptors. Negative emotions such as sadness, anxiety, and stress can also trigger this same response. It is here that lies the risk of developing dependence, resorting to opioids as a way to escape these emotions.

The functioning of opioids may seem simple, but their complexity lies in the effects they can cause on our body. Detailed understanding of these impacts is essential for those, like us, who seek to assist people in controlling and overcoming dependence on these substances through clinical hypnosis. Here at the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis, we always aim to expand scientific knowledge to provide the best possible assistance, basing our practice on evidence.

Main Types of Opioids and Their Applications

When we address the term opioids, we are talking about a group of medications with varied effects. Among the main ones, three categories stand out.

Natural opioids: These are substances derived directly from opium, a sap produced by a type of poppy. In this category, morphine and codeine are included, mainly used for treating intense pain.

Synthetic opioids: These are medications created in laboratories, designed to mimic the effects of natural opioids. Among them are fentanyl and methadone, used for treating acute and chronic pain, as well as maintaining heroin dependents.

Semisynthetic opioids: Medications that are a mix of natural and synthetic parts. Examples include heroin, widely known for illicit recreational use, and oxycodone, frequently used in chronic pain management.

Each of these opioids has its exclusive applications, mainly in pain management. However, their correct use requires knowledge and responsibility, considering the risk of developing dependence.

Considering the effects of opioids on the human body is a complex task. As professionals in the clinical field, we must always seek to improve our understanding and management of these substances to provide the best possible care to patients.

Risks and Impacts of Opioids on Public Health

Opioids represent a significant risk to global public health. Their high potential to cause dependence and the ease of overdose lead to severe consequences, such as overdose and death.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2017, it was estimated that 40 million people worldwide suffered from opioid dependence, with 110,000 deaths occurring due to the abuse of these substances. These numbers place opioids at the top of the list of the deadliest drugs.

Along with dependence and health risks, there is another important impact: social and economic costs. Treating opioid dependence, loss of productivity at work, legal challenges, and the consequences for health services increase the annual costs for governments by billions.

Opioids also promote the emergence of associated diseases, such as HIV and Hepatitis C, linked to the shared use of syringes for drug administration.

It is vital to understand and address the problem of opioid dependence to protect public health. The search for effective treatment alternatives is crucial in this process, and clinical hypnosis emerges as a strong ally in this context.

Opioids and Dependence: Demystifying the Problem

There is a widespread stigma related to opioids associating them strictly with dependence, ignoring the complexity of the issue. Yes, it is true that the use of opioids can lead to dependence, but it is important to demystify this automatic association and understand that, in many cases, it is directly related to factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and treatment duration.

When prescribed and administered correctly by healthcare professionals, opioids can be vital components of an effective treatment plan. Dependence often results from the inappropriate use of these medications, being associated with prolonged use without medical supervision or recreational use.

Therefore, it is crucial to distinguish between the responsible use of opioids, aimed at relieving pain and promoting the patient’s quality of life, and opioid abuse, which can result in dependence and bring severe health consequences.

In this line, clinical hypnosis emerges as a powerful tool for pain management, potentially contributing to more controlled medication use and, eventually, reduction. Additionally, hypnosis techniques can help treat dependence, acting in conjunction with other evidence-based practices.

The Positive Side of Opioids: Medical and Therapeutic Applications

For many years, opioids have played a crucial role in pain relief. They are frequently used to control pain in cancer patients, as well as in post-surgical procedures.

Besides acting directly on the nervous system to reduce pain, these medications can also induce an intense state of relaxation and provide a sense of well-being to patients. This, combined with pain relief, can significantly improve the quality of life for people with chronic health conditions.

Opioids are also fundamental in palliative care, alleviating physical and emotional suffering in patients with terminal illnesses. They allow these individuals to live their last days with dignity, being essential in end-of-life treatments.

Another therapeutic application of opioids can be seen in treating specific illnesses, such as chronic cough and diarrhea. Codeine, for example, is often used to combat persistent cough, while loperamide is effective in stopping acute diarrhea episodes.

However, to achieve these benefits, the use of opioids must be done responsibly. Constant medical supervision is essential to avoid the development of dependence and other health risks.

The Use of Opioids and the Role of Clinical Hypnosis

In general, opioids are prescribed by doctors to relieve pain. However, the continuous use of these medications can cause dependence, leading to a vicious cycle that is difficult to break. Here comes the role of clinical hypnosis, a tool that can be used ethically and responsibly in treating opioid dependence.

Often, those who consume opioids seek relief from some physical or emotional discomfort. In this context, hypnosis acts by altering our perception of pain. It is not a magic cure, but a technique that can help reduce the perception of pain and increase tolerance to it.

It is important to emphasize that clinical hypnosis does not replace conventional medical treatment. It acts as a complement, enhancing results. The idea is that, over time, the use of opioids can be progressively reduced under medical supervision as hypnosis techniques take effect.

Of course, each case is unique. Some people may respond better to hypnosis than others. However, scientific evidence shows us that hypnosis can be a valuable tool in the field of health, especially when combined with evidence-based practices. After all, as we always reinforce: everything that stress and anxiety can worsen, scientific hypnosis can help.

Therefore, if you work in the healthcare field and are interested in helping people with clinical hypnosis, know that this can be an interesting and promising path.

How Hypnosis Can Help in Treating Opioid Dependence

For those suffering from opioid dependence, recovery may seem like a long and difficult path. However, clinical hypnosis offers an effective approach to treating this specific condition.

First, hypnosis can contribute to pain management, reducing the need for opioid medications. This occurs because hypnosis can alter our perceptions and experiences, including how we perceive pain.

Additionally, clinical hypnosis is a powerful tool for dealing with withdrawal symptoms, which are often a significant obstacle in the recovery journey. Through hypnotic suggestion, we can learn to control anxiety, depression, and irritability that often accompany withdrawal.

The power of hypnotic suggestions also makes hypnosis an effective therapy for behavior change. With the help of a professional hypnotherapist, people can learn to create new behavior, replacing thought patterns that used to lead them to opioid use.

Finally, but not least, hypnosis is a remarkably useful tool in building self-esteem and strengthening motivation for recovery. The therapeutic bond that forms during hypnosis sessions can give clients not only the skills to overcome addiction but also the confidence to continue on the path to an opioid-free life.

It is important to remember that hypnosis should be used as part of a broader treatment program, under medical guidance. Always consult a professional before starting any new treatment.

Although hypnosis can be an incredibly useful tool, care and ethics are fundamental when addressing such serious issues as opioid dependence.

Paths to a Future Without Opioid Abuse: Prevention and Awareness

There is a future where prevention and awareness about opioid abuse can truly make a difference. A society that understands the risks associated with the uncontrolled use of these medications can minimize its dependence and associated devastating consequences.

By promoting education and awareness campaigns about opioids, we can demystify the misconceptions people often have about them. Showing that these substances, although useful when used appropriately for pain management, also have the potential to damage lives when misused.

In addition to the power of medical entities and health institutions in disseminating this message, we, as citizens, can also play a crucial role in the awareness process. By sharing correct information and using our own examples – whether through personal stories or mediating discussions – we can contribute to preventing opioid abuse.

This fight against opioid abuse is not easy, but prevention and awareness are the paths that lead us to a safer and healthier future. Together, we can make a difference.

Conclusion

Discussing opioids and their implications is a challenge that requires deep understanding and sensitivity. Addressing such a topic, whose issues affect so many individuals and families, is essential for us at the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis.

Opioids, when used correctly, are effective tools in pain management. However, we need to maintain constant vigilance to prevent their misuse and abuse, which can lead to dependence and other serious health problems.

We emphasize the importance of the ethical and responsible use of opioids, as well as any other therapeutic tool. The emotional and physical health of our patients is always our priority. Information and awareness about the risks and benefits of opioids are essential.

Moreover, clinical hypnosis presents itself as a powerful approach to managing pain and opioid dependence. Being useful even for alleviating the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and, above all, helping to create new behaviors, hypnosis is a great ally in this fight.

By considering everything discussed here, our goal is to encourage those who wish to gain more knowledge and assist those who struggle with opioid dependence. Together, we can effect change.

Are you interested in learning scientific hypnosis to apply professionally? Do you want to enhance your results in your current profession or even find a new profession? Learn about the evidence-based hypnosis training and postgraduate courses offered by the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis through the link: https://www.hipnose.com.br/cursos/.

Start making a difference today, promoting well-being, quality of life, and health!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common effects of opioid use?

Opioid use can cause a variety of effects, including pain relief, drowsiness, euphoria, and in some cases, respiratory depression that can be fatal. Additionally, prolonged opioid use can lead to tolerance and dependence.

What is an opioid overdose?

An opioid overdose occurs when a person consumes an amount of opioids that the body cannot adequately process. This can result in respiratory arrest, loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases, death. Signs of an opioid overdose include breathing problems, blue lips and nails, vomiting, and inability to be awakened.

What is opioid dependence?

Opioid dependence is a chronic condition that can result from prolonged opioid use. It is characterized by a strong desire to use the drug despite negative consequences. Opioid dependence is considered a brain disease, not a moral or character flaw.

How can clinical hypnosis help in treating opioid dependence?

Clinical hypnosis can be an effective tool in treating opioid dependence. It can help reduce cravings, improve treatment adherence, and deal with triggers that may lead to drug use. However, it is important to remember that hypnosis is not a cure in itself, but a therapeutic tool that should be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment.

What strategies can prevent excessive use or abuse of opioids?

Preventing opioid abuse is a complex challenge that requires action on multiple fronts. This includes educating doctors and patients about the risks and benefits of opioids, proper monitoring of opioid use, early identification and treatment of opioid dependence, and promoting non-opioid alternatives for pain management.