Overdosing can be a frightening and life-threatening experience. It affects not just the person overdosing but also those around them. Knowing the signs and taking immediate action can make the difference between life and death. If you are fortunate enough to survive, understanding how to recover from an overdose can make all the difference. Recovery is possible, and help is always available when you want to overcome substance use and addiction.
What Is an Overdose?
An overdose happens when a person takes too much of a substance, overwhelming the body’s ability to cope. This can result in harmful or even fatal reactions. The substances involved can include alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription medications. Overdoses may be accidental or intentional, but all require emergency medical attention.
What Does an Overdose Feel Like?
People experiencing an overdose might feel lightheaded, confused, or intensely anxious. They may lose coordination or have trouble breathing. Some report terrifying hallucinations or feel as though their body is shutting down. Many are unaware they are overdosing, which makes a fast response from others critical.
Signs and Symptoms of an Overdose
Overdose symptoms vary by substance. Recognizing them quickly is vital.
Alcohol
- Vomiting
- Confusion or stupor
- Seizures
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Blue-tinged or pale skin
- Unconsciousness
Opioids
- Slow or stopped breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Unconsciousness
- Limp body
- Cold, clammy skin
- Bluish lips or fingernails
Stimulants
- Rapid heartbeat
- High body temperature
- Seizures
- Chest pain
- Paranoia
- Agitation or hallucinations
Benzodiazepines
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Slurred speech
- Poor coordination
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion
- Unconsciousness
Tolerance, Addiction, and Increased Risk of Overdose
With regular substance use, the body builds tolerance, needing more to achieve the same effect. This leads to increased use and greater overdose risk. Addiction pushes people to ignore warning signs and take more than is safe. Using substances after a period of sobriety also increases the danger, as tolerance often decreases.
What To Do If Someone Overdoses
Quick response saves lives. Always call emergency services right away, as immediate medical intervention is the critical first step in how to recover from an overdose.
Alcohol
- Call 911 immediately.
- Keep the person awake and sitting up if possible.
- Please do not leave them alone.
- Do not let them “sleep it off.”
- If unconscious, place them on their side to prevent choking.
Opioids
- Call 911 immediately.
- Administer naloxone if available.
- Keep them breathing. Give rescue breaths if needed.
- Stay with them until help arrives.
- Try to keep them awake.
Stimulants
- Call 911.
- Keep the person calm and cool.
- Move them to a quiet place.
- Do not try to restrain them.
- Monitor breathing and heart rate.
Benzodiazepines
- Call 911 without delay.
- Keep the person awake and breathing.
- Do not give them anything to eat or drink.
- Stay calm and reassure them.
- Monitor for slowed breathing or unconsciousness.
For any substance overdose, always remain with the person until emergency responders arrive. You should also share information about the person and their substance use history.
How Long Does Recovering From an Overdose Take?
The timeline for overdose recovery varies based on several factors. These include the substance, amount taken, and person’s health. Physical symptoms may resolve in a few days, while emotional healing takes longer. Mental health support and addiction treatment speed up long-term recovery.
How to Recover From an Overdose
Recovering from an overdose initially begins with emergency medical care to stabilize the person. Doctors may use medications, fluids, or oxygen to treat the effects. Once stable, the focus shifts to rest, nutrition, and hydration to support physical healing. Emotional recovery is just as important, and therapy can help manage trauma or fear.
Bridging the Gap From an Overdose to Addiction Treatment
An overdose often signals a deeper issue that needs addressing. It is an opportunity to enter addiction treatment and prevent future crises. Treatment helps uncover the root causes of substance use and teaches healthy coping strategies. With guidance, people can transition from surviving to thriving in recovery.
What Happens If Someone Does Not Start Addiction Treatment After an Overdose?
Addiction takes hold of the mind and body, making it hard to see a way out. Even after an overdose, the pull to keep using can feel stronger than the will to seek help. The brain becomes wired to prioritize the substance over everything else, including safety, health, and relationships.
When someone continues to use after recovering from an overdose, their risk of another overdose increases significantly. The next one could be fatal. Without treatment, the cycle continues, and the chance to recover slips further away. Taking that first step into addiction treatment is the best way to break free and protect one’s life.
Life After an Overdose: Addiction Treatment Options
Addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all. It offers a range of services to support long-term overdose recovery. Each option provides unique tools and healing opportunities.
- Psychiatry Services: These services diagnose and treat mental health disorders with medications and ongoing care. They are essential for people with co-occurring conditions.
- MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment): MAT uses FDA-approved medications to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is most effective for opioid and alcohol use disorders.
- Individual Therapy: This therapy provides one-on-one support to explore personal challenges and emotional needs. It helps individuals create lasting change.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps people recognize negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier ones. It strengthens problem-solving and emotional control.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT teaches skills to manage strong emotions and improve relationships. It is especially helpful for those with emotional instability.
- Relapse Prevention: This approach teaches coping skills to avoid relapse in high-risk situations. It helps build long-term recovery confidence.
- Trauma Therapy: Trauma therapy helps people process painful memories that may contribute to substance use. It fosters emotional safety and recovery.
- Holistic Therapies: These include practices like yoga, meditation, and art therapy. They promote relaxation, mindfulness, and emotional balance.
- Equine Therapy: Guided activities with horses build trust, self-awareness, and emotional growth. This therapy supports healing through non-verbal connection.
- Mental Health Counseling: This counseling treats anxiety, depression, and other emotional struggles. It plays a key role in a balanced recovery.
Discover How to Recover From an Overdose in Tennessee Today
Have you or a loved one experienced an overdose? At Tennessee Valley Recovery, we help people learn how to recover from an overdose through our comprehensive treatment programs. Our caring and compassionate team creates personalized care plans and provides a supportive environment that promotes long-term recovery. Contact us today to start your recovery journey to a brighter, healthier, substance-free future.