Rachel George, a recovery advocate for opioid use disorder (OUD), shares her personal journey through addiction, treatment, and participation in clinical trials at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Her story aims to provide hope and support to others facing similar challenges.
Early Opioid Use and the Onset of OUD
George began using opioids at the age of 15, initially as a substitute for other drugs. "Once I felt the effects of opioids, I had no reason or motivation to stop using them until the legal issues, and later the addiction issues, started," she recounts. It wasn't until her 20s that she recognized the extent of her problem, marked by extreme behaviors to obtain drugs and the onset of withdrawal symptoms.
The Realities of Living with OUD
Living with OUD, according to George, is a constant rollercoaster. She describes repeatedly rebuilding her life only to have it disrupted by relapse. While she has avoided severe long-term physical health issues beyond intravenous scars and dental problems, the mental toll has been significant. "Mentally, I’ve learnt I will need to make amends for the things I’ve done during my active addiction, especially to myself," she explains.
Seeking and Finding Treatment
George's turning point came after an overdose while driving in 2013. This incident led her to rehab, where she initially found success with methadone and 12-step recovery programs. However, she later relapsed with fentanyl, prompting her to seek treatment again due to the drug's inconsistent quality and severe withdrawal symptoms.
Participation in NIH Clinical Trials
George's involvement in NIDA clinical trials has been a positive experience. She describes being treated with kindness and respect, which contrasted with previous experiences. "The studies allow me to feel like I am contributing to making the world better for people with OUD," she says. One notable study involved a 21-day inpatient stay with moderate methadone withdrawal, during which she felt supported by the medical staff.
Current Health and Future Outlook
Today, George describes her physical health as good, but acknowledges ongoing mental health challenges, including anxiety related to post-traumatic stress disorder. She continues to manage her OUD with a high dose of methadone and attends counseling sessions. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to recovery, stating, "It would be easy to fall back into using every day to avoid what I am dealing with, but I choose to climb instead of fall."
Advice and Support for Others
George emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support for individuals with OUD. "You are not alone," she advises, urging those struggling to consider treatment and to avoid being alone while using due to the unpredictable nature of street drugs. She also encourages self-compassion and allowing time for recovery and healing.
For those supporting individuals with OUD, George recommends seeking support as well. She highlights the importance of recognizing one's own limits and prioritizing personal health, whether that means providing support from a distance or actively assisting in the recovery process.
George's story underscores the complexities of OUD and the potential for positive change through treatment, support, and participation in research.
