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Apr 2008 Issue
by Debbie Tretiak
Question: How did I get to where prescription drugs are controlling my life?
Answer: There are many reasons why people get addicted to prescription drugs. As with many things, Satan can take something beneficial and make it his tool. Drugs that are medically necessary, and have been prescribed by a doctor to help, can easily become overused and abused. Sometimes people “self-medicate.” This means, they go beyond the legitimately prescribed purpose of a drug, and use it to “self-treat” some emotional issue.
In such a case, there is often some kind of emotional or physical pain involved. If this is the case, it is important to do an assessment to identify the problems and come up with a solution. See your Bishop. Take it to the Lord in prayer. Choose to follow the Word of Wisdom.
When necessary, get assistance from a mental health professional that is trained in helping you stop the substance abuse, as well as in focusing on finding the appropriate means of helping yourself.
For example, one of my patients went to the dentist and was prescribed Loritabs. The Loritabs not only took care of the pain with the dental situation but, she found that she liked the experience of taking the pain pills because it alleviated the anxiety and other emotional distresses she was going through at that time. If one is not aware, addiction can happen almost before they realize it.
In addition to the physical pain, there is often some genetic pre-disposition, coupled with environmental factors, which fosters the addiction process. The individual ends up taking prescription pills to alter their mood in such a way that their pain is somewhat relieved.
Prescription drugs such as Valium and other sedating chemicals, including alcohol, are usually the choice when this is the underlying purpose.
In an October 1988 General Conference address, Elder Russell M. Nelson stated: I am impressed to speak out on a problem of deep concern—the worldwide epidemic of drug addiction. I raise my voice with others throughout the world who warn against abuse of drugs beyond prescribed limits. We may choose for ourselves. Those choices may bring addiction or freedom. For freedom and joy, choose to “be faithful in Christ.” He will lift you up. May “the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever” (Moro. 9:25).
Next month’s Ask Debbie article:
What is my prescription drug addiction doing to my family and relationship with my spouse?
E-mail your questions to dtretiak@prodigy.net
Debbie is in private practice in Summerlin as a Nevada Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She is a Las Vegas native and lifelong member of The Church. For appointments, call 702-644-6463 (644-MIND).
