Fentanyl is one of the most dangerous drugs in America. Willow Behavioral Health’s Wisconsin-based fentanyl rehab programs offer direct support to help you or someone you love recover with care that’s personal, effective, and grounded in trust.
What Is Fentanyl and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s about 50 times stronger than heroin and even more potent than morphine. In hospitals, it’s used for severe pain and often delivered through a fentanyl patch.
But street fentanyl is a different risk. It’s often made illegally and blended with other substances. These fentanyl laced drugs are now one of the leading causes of overdose in the US.
The rise in these drug combinations is driving the fentanyl crisis. Many people who develop fentanyl use disorder didn’t know they were taking it at all. That’s why fast action and proven treatment are so important.
Signs of Fentanyl Misuse
Wondering how to tell if someone is addicted to fentanyl? These signs can help:
- Unusual drowsiness or drifting off mid-conversation
- Slowed breathing or shallow chest movements
- Avoiding people or spending more time alone
- Irritability or mood changes without warning
- Missing prescriptions or unexplained refills
- Pupils that stay small even in the dark
- Feeling sick or shaky when not using
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at Willow Behavioral Health
At Willow, we look at the full picture: what you’re facing now, and what led you here. Every person gets a unique plan shaped by their goals and needs. We offer:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Dual-diagnosis care for substance use and mental health challenges
- Discreet support options for professionals and public figures
- Programs led by clinicians with lived experience in recovery
- Trauma-informed therapy that respects your history
- Medication support and wellness-based therapies
- Virtual, in-person, and hybrid treatment plans
- 24/7 crisis support and safety planning
PHP gives you full-day care with therapy, medication guidance, and group sessions while still returning home each evening.
IOP is more flexible, including several weekly therapy sessions, giving you strong support without putting life on pause.
Virtual treatment offers recovery from home, with access to individual sessions, group work, and consistent check-ins.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction
We use MAT to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal, including off-label use of Suboxone or Methadone when suitable.
What Are the Effects of Fentanyl Abuse?
Fentanyl changes the way your body works and how your mind responds. In the short term, it can slow your breathing and reflexes before you even notice. An overdose can happen fast, especially if it’s taken with other drugs.
Over time, fentanyl affects memory, mood, and motivation. Many people feel disconnected, anxious, or unable to feel joy without it. This cycle often keeps people using, even when they want to stop.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Fentanyl withdrawal can be overwhelming, especially if the use has gone on for a while. Common symptoms include:
- Muscle pain
- Leg twitching
- Restlessness
- Stomach issues
- Intense cravings
- Trouble sleeping
- Chills or cold sweats
- Mood swings or anxiety
How Long Does Fentanyl Withdrawal Last?
Symptoms often begin within 12 hours and peak during the first week. Some emotional effects, like irritability or sadness, can last longer.
Safe Fentanyl Detox
We coordinate detox placement services, helping you safely transition into care with medical oversight and emotional support.
Can You Overdose on Fentanyl?
It’s very easy to overdose on fentanyl. As little as 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be deadly. That’s about the size of a few grains of sand. Overdoses often happen because fentanyl is illegally mixed into drugs like heroin, cocaine, and meth, or pressed into counterfeit pills that resemble real prescription medications (CDC, 2024).
Watch for these fentanyl overdose symptoms:
- Very small pupils
- Weak or no breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Blue-tinged lips or fingernails
- Snoring, choking, or gurgling sounds
Call 911 right away if you see these signs. Naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the overdose, but it must be given fast.
Continued Support for Long-Term Recovery
Recovery takes time, and we’re here through it all. Willow offers:
- Customized aftercare plans
- Virtual groups and community support
- Referrals for therapy and sober housing
- Alumni programming and peer mentorship
- Life skills training and relapse prevention strategies
- Support with sober living applications and funding sources
Contact Willow for Fentanyl Addiction Help in WI
You don’t have to manage this on your own. Willow Behavioral Health offers thoughtful, experienced care from people who understand what you’re going through. Let’s take this step together toward safety, clarity, and strength.
FAQs About Fentanyl
How long does fentanyl stay in your system?
Is fentanyl more dangerous than heroin?
What does fentanyl look like?
Can you get addicted to fentanyl from one use?
Is fentanyl withdrawal dangerous?
How to stop using fentanyl?
References and Citations
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