Opioid Use Disorder Self Assessment

Opioid use disorder is a serious brain disease that affects millions of people across the United States, contributing to the ongoing opioid epidemic. With over 16 million affected globally and 2.1 million in the United States, this condition represents a significant public health crisis. At Crestone Detox and Rehab Austin, we understand that recognizing the signs of opioid dependence can be challenging, both for individuals struggling with substance abuse and their family members. Our comprehensive opioid use disorder assessment is designed to help you better understand your relationship with opioid drugs and determine if professional addiction treatment may be beneficial.

Opioid Use Disorder Quiz

What Is Opioid Use Disorder?

Opioid use disorder is a chronic brain disease characterized by the compulsive use of opioid substances despite harmful health consequences. This condition can develop from prescribed opioids like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl, as well as illicit substances such as heroin. The disorder affects the brain’s opioid receptors and reward system, making it extremely difficult to stop using opioid medications without professional medical intervention.

The opioid epidemic has devastated communities nationwide, with nearly 727,000 people dying from an opioid overdose between 1999-2022. Recent data shows 82,138 drug overdose deaths predicted for the 12 months ending in January 2025, representing a nearly 26% decline compared to the previous year, indicating positive progress in addressing this crisis.

The American Psychiatric Association defines opioid use disorder as meeting specific criteria related to tolerance, withdrawal, continued use despite problems, and unsuccessful attempts to reduce or control use. Understanding these criteria is essential for recognizing when casual use of prescription pain relievers has progressed to opioid dependence requiring addiction treatment.

The Scope of the Opioid Crisis

The opioid epidemic has evolved in three distinct waves. The first wave began with increased prescribing of opioids in the 1990s. The second wave began in 2010, with rapid increases in overdose deaths involving heroin. The third wave began in 2013, with substantial increases in overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, particularly those involving illegally made fentanyl.

In 2022, nearly 110,000 Americans died from drug overdoses. More than 81,000 of these deaths involved either prescription or illicit opioids. The synthetic opioid fentanyl has become particularly dangerous – fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than heroin. As little as 2 mg of fentanyl—the amount of a few grains of salt—can be fatal.

Common Signs of Opioid Use Disorder and Health Consequences

Recognizing the signs of opioid use disorder is crucial for seeking appropriate addiction treatment. Some common indicators include:

Physical Signs:

Increased tolerance requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using opioid drugs
Persistent cravings for opioid substances
Neglecting personal hygiene and self-care
Changes in sleep patterns and appetite
Risk of overdose from opioid medications

Behavioral Changes:

Using opioids in larger amounts or for longer periods than intended
Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control opioid use
Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from opioids
Giving up important activities due to substance abuse
Doctor shopping or seeking multiple prescriptions from different prescribers

Social and Emotional Impact:

Continued opioid use despite relationship problems with family members
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
Isolating from family and friends
Mood swings and emotional instability
Using opioid drugs in dangerous situations

The Connection Between Mental Illness and Substance Abuse

Co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse disorders are extremely common. More than one in four adults living with serious mental health problems also has a substance use problem. According to SAMHSA’s 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 21.5 million adults in the United States have a co-occurring disorder.

According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 35% of adults aged 18 and over in the U.S. who have substance use disorders also have other mental disorders. This connection exists because mental health and substance use disorders share some underlying causes, including changes in brain composition, genetic vulnerabilities, and early exposure to stress or trauma.

Comprehensive Treatment Options for Opioid Use Disorder

At Crestone Detox and Rehab Austin, we offer comprehensive addiction treatment programs specifically designed to address opioid use disorder and co-occurring mental illness. Our evidence-based approach combines medically supervised withdrawal, residential treatment, and ongoing support to help individuals achieve lasting recovery.

Medical Detox Program: Our medically supervised withdrawal program provides safe, comfortable management of withdrawal symptoms using medication for opioid use disorder. Our experienced medical team, including pharmacists and healthcare providers, monitors patients 24/7 to ensure safety during the detoxification process. We utilize medications for opioid use disorder, including buprenorphine, to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
Residential Treatment: Our residential treatment program offers intensive, round-the-clock care in a supportive environment. Patients receive individual therapy sessions, group counseling, and specialized treatments including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and EMDR therapy to address underlying trauma and mental illness.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Many individuals with opioid use disorder also struggle with co-occurring mental illness. Our dual diagnosis treatment program addresses both substance abuse and mental health conditions simultaneously for more effective outcomes. Integrated treatment coordinates mental and substance use interventions by linking people to other providers who can deliver individualized and personalized services.
Family Therapy Program: We recognize that addiction affects entire families. Our family therapy program helps family members understand opioid dependence as a brain disease, learn how to support their loved one’s recovery, and address the impact of substance abuse on family relationships.

Evidence-Based Therapies and Medication for OUD

Recovery from opioid use disorder requires comprehensive addiction treatment that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of this brain disease. Our treatment programs incorporate proven therapeutic approaches:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to opioid use
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Teaches healthy coping skills and emotional regulation techniques
EMDR Therapy: Addresses trauma that may be underlying substance abuse
Group Therapy: Provides peer support and shared experiences in recovery
Motivational Interviewing: Helps individuals find internal motivation for change
Family Therapy: Involves family members in the recovery process
Medication for Opioid Use Disorder: Our medical team utilizes FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder, including buprenorphine and other evidence-based treatments. These medication for OUD options help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse when combined with counseling and therapy sessions.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you’re concerned about your opioid use or that of a loved one, taking our opioid use disorder quiz can be an important first step. Remember that addiction is a brain disease, not a moral failing, and effective addiction treatment is available.

Our compassionate team at Crestone Detox and Rehab Austin is here to support you throughout your recovery journey. We understand that seeking help for opioid dependence takes courage, and we’re committed to providing the highest quality care in a supportive, non-judgmental environment free from discrimination.

Support for Recovery

Recovery from opioid use disorder is possible with the right addiction treatment and support. In addition to professional treatment, consider connecting with local support groups, family programs, and community resources that can provide ongoing encouragement throughout your recovery journey.

Our rehabilitation program emphasizes the importance of addressing substance abuse as a brain disease while supporting family members throughout the recovery process. We work to combat discrimination and provide compassionate care that recognizes the complex nature of opioid dependence.

Get Support Today

Don’t let uncertainty keep you from seeking help. Contact our admissions team to discuss your situation confidentially and learn about treatment options that might be right for you.