Drug addiction is a disease, and most people who suffer from it need professional support and therapy to overcome the challenges it creates. Most people who use substances do not set out to develop an addiction to them, yet this happens often. When it happens to you, your doctor should be one of the first people you open up to about what’s occurring.
Will My Doctor Report My Drug Use?
One of the fears some people have is whether or not their doctor will report their drug use. That will not happen. Your doctor is bound to confidentiality, and they’re not likely to risk their medical license for this. To be clear, doctors cannot disclose any information you provide to them to anyone else that is not directly linked to the care you need. You’re safe opening up to your doctor.
Why Does Your Doctor Need to Know?
Are you taking prescription medications not meant for you? Perhaps you’re using cannabis, opioids, or other drugs to help you deal with your day-to-day life. Why does your doctor need to know this?
Sharing this information with your doctor – even if you’re not looking for help to stop using – will give them the ability to provide a better level of care for you. Your doctor can help you to understand the side effects you’re experiencing and how to manage them.
They can also help you get to the bottom of your continued use. For example, some people don’t tell their doctor they are using much more pain medication than what they are prescribed. Yet, your doctor may be able to help you understand why this is happening, offer treatment to reduce the pain, and help you start on the path of wellness.
Also, some types of drugs and alcohol interfere with other medications you may be taking. If you have any other conditions you’re receiving medication for, your doctor needs to know about that to help alleviate some of the risks associated with mixing medications. That includes things like:
- Depression
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting
You also need to know the risks of continued use. In some situations, that could mean an irregular heart rhythm or increased risk of mental health complications.
Don’t Use Substances Often? Still Let Your Doctor Know
You’re not the first person to tell your physician that you are using drugs or alcohol. They are not going to be shocked by this information. However, even if you just drink on the weekends or share a few pills with friends every few weeks, share that information with your doctor. Doing so can help them to better understand your health, blood tests, and treatment options for any underlying health conditions you may have.
If You Tell Your Doctor, Could It Impact Your Health Insurance?
Insurance companies will have information about your health, but they cannot share that with anyone. More so, drug addiction is a disease, and most health insurance plans provide coverage for treatment. It’s not likely that your health insurance will take any steps to change your policy due to your recreational drug use. However, they may be able to provide help to you.
What Can Your Doctor Really Do to Help You with Your Drug Addiction?
Doctors see people with drug addiction and mental health disorders every day. It’s more common than you may realize. What can they do for you, though?
- Provide you with support for complications you are having with your health
- Give you guidance on how to manage withdrawal symptoms when you are ready to stop using
- Point you in the direction of getting help, especially by explaining the benefits that alcohol and drug addiction treatment can offer
- Support you in getting assessments for mental health disorders that could be contributing to your continued use of substances
- Provide a listening ear to help you talk about what’s happening
What If You Can’t Talk to Your Doctor?
Many people find themselves unable or unwilling to talk to their doctor about their alcohol and drug use. No matter why this is, it shouldn’t limit anyone from getting the care you need. If you don’t want to talk with your doctor, seek out treatment from another source. Often, seeking care from a trusted and specialized provider and therapist could make a big difference in your quality of life and overall well-being.
Our team at The Ranch at Dove Tree wants to help you. We offer 24/7 support that could change your future. Contact our team today to learn more about the treatment programs for addiction in Lubbock, Texas, available to you today.
