Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment Center Ohio Â
It can happen to anyone. You have a medical issue or disorder, perhaps chronic pain, anxiety, or adult ADHD. So, you go to your trusted healthcare provider for help. The provider prescribes medication for your situation. For most people, taking prescription medications as directed leads to relief and a better quality of life. But what happens when you have to take medication for the long-term management of a chronic condition and find yourself dependent on the pills just to feel normal? Worse yet, what if you become addicted to the very thing that promised you freedom from pain?Â
White Light Behavioral Health is a place where you can find real solutions when life throws you curveballs. Our facility in Columbus, Ohio offers programs that are meant to wean you off of prescription medications. When indicated and possible, we’ll also introduce alternatives for treating co-occurring health and mental health conditions.Â
Our compassionate setting provides you with a comfortable space where you can get to the root of the problem away from the stressors and situations that contributed to it.Â
The Scope of Prescription Drug Use in the U.S.Â
Prescription drugs are controlled substances that can only be obtained through a prescription from a licensed medical professional, usually a medical doctor or psychiatrist. They can only be dispensed from a doctor’s office or at a licensed pharmacy.Â
Because many of these substances also come with a high risk for misuse, patients are carefully monitored. Refills are also limited.Â
That’s how it’s supposed to work, anyway.Â
Take the First Step with White Light Behavioral Health
Recovery from addiction starts with a decision to seek help. At White Light Behavioral Health, we’re here to guide you through every step of that journey, offering a comprehensive treatment program that respects your individuality and addresses your specific needs. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we invite you to learn more about our detox and treatment options in Ohio. Let us be part of your journey to a healthier, sober life.
In 2020, there were reportedly 16 million people routinely misusing prescription drugs. During that same year, there were more than 28,800 deaths due to prescription drug overdose. The demographic most likely to misuse prescription medications are young adults aged 18 to 25 according to SAMSHA.Â
Fortunately, not all prescription drugs are addictive, nor are all people who are prescribed medications likely to become dependent or develop a use disorder.Â

Most Misused Prescription Drugs Â
Prescription medications that are considered at high risk for misuse fall into three classifications: opioids, CNS depressants, and stimulants.Â
Let’s begin with opioids. A lot has been written about the opioid crisis in the United States. Ohio is one state that has been especially hard hit. However, few people understand how easily opioid addiction can happen. It causes people to veer into a lifelong struggle of use, abstinence, and relapse that so often leads to an early death.
According to data gathered in 2020, more than 9 million of those misusing prescription drugs were taking opiate-based medications. What’s more, 16,500 of the above-mentioned overdose deaths were linked to opioids.Â
Opioids work on the brain in two ways. First, they block neurotransmission from pain receptors in the brain. This is why they’re prescribed so often for mild to severe pain. They also affect dopamine production and release.
Dependence starts when tolerance to opiates builds up, requiring more medication to get the same effect. People also take their medications more often, take them longer than necessary, or take more than the prescribed dosage. When they can no longer obtain their medications legally, they resort to desperate measures, such as trying dangerous illegal street drugs like heroin or fentanyl.Â
These drugs are most commonly used to treat some mood disorders, insomnia, and muscle spasms. Because CNS drugs depress your central nervous system, they also slow your heartbeat and decrease respiration. They were linked to 12,300 of the 28,800 overdose deaths recorded in 2020.Â
Symptoms of CNS depressant use include:
Risk Factors For Prescription Drug Use Disorder
Signs of Prescription Drug Dependence

The signs that someone has become dependent on their prescription meds include:
- Pill counting and obsession with their meds
- Watching the clock for their next dose
- Becoming anxious when their prescription is running low
- Faking symptoms in order to obtain a new prescription
- Running out of medications before a refill is available
- Taking someone else’s medication
- Purchasing street drugs
- Becoming angry or irritated when questioned about their use
- Sudden changes in habits or behavior
- Diminished performance at home, work, or school
The Importance of Getting Professional Help and Support

Prescription Medication Detox and Withdrawal
This is best done under medical supervision in a secure facility like White Light Behavioral Health due to the potential dangers of withdrawal and the risk of relapse. Once your condition is stabilized and you’re lucid again, our staff will work with you to decide on a course of treatment.Â
Treatment options after detox include inpatient care or outpatient treatment.
Inpatient care involves a stay at our treatment center for a period of time. The length of stay will depend on the length and severity of the problem and your readiness to maintain sobriety.
During your stay, you’ll receive individual counseling with a licensed therapist who specializes in treating the root causes of substance use disorder. You’ll also receive a diagnosis and options for managing comorbidities. Many people who are dealing with prescription medication use disorder have co-occurring health or mental health conditions that need attention.Â
- While you’re here, we’ll help you understand the nature of addiction and what led to your stay at our center. You’ll also learn what your triggers are and develop new coping skills to prevent a recurrence of the problem.Â
- Outpatient clients will receive all of the same treatment options and techniques. The only difference is that you’ll be able to attend sessions during the day and return home at night. There are also usually fewer sessions. Outpatient options are ideal for those who have a stable home environment and work or family obligations that prevent a stay at our facility.
- Since the issue is prescription drug addiction, medications will only be used in cases of opioid withdrawal and medical maintenance when indicated. This is due to the severity of withdrawal symptoms and the high rate of relapse with opiates.Â
How to Get Help For Prescription Drug Addiction in Ohio Â
No one sets out to become dependent on prescription medications. Most of us are simply looking for a way to feel better and participate fully in life again.
At White Light Behavioral Health, we understand your struggle. Our goal is to provide our friends and neighbors in Columbus, OH with options when it comes to treating substance use disorders.
It’s never too late to start again. Contact White Light Behavioral Health to learn more or arrange treatment.