Rachel George shared her story with NIH MedlinePlus Magazine to help others with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). She participated in OUD-related clinical trials at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) in Baltimore, Maryland. Rachel hopes to support researchers in studying treatments and understanding addiction better.
Rachel started using opioids at the age of 15 in 1997. She initially used weed and LSD but transitioned to opioids like heroin to avoid detection in drug tests. Her only knowledge of opioids came from movies that did not glamorize addiction. Rachel did not realize she had OUD until her 20s when she faced legal issues and withdrawal symptoms.
Living with OUD has been a rollercoaster for Rachel. She has rebuilt her life multiple times after periods of drug use, but each time it becomes more challenging. Rachel has experienced intravenous scars and deteriorating teeth due to OUD. Mentally, she understands the importance of making amends and taking care of her psychological well-being.
Rachel decided to seek help for OUD after a near-fatal overdose in 2013. She entered rehab and committed to recovery for seven years before facing challenges with fentanyl use. Rachel then joined NIDA clinical trials to find alternative treatments for OUD.
Her experience in the clinical trials was positive, and she felt respected and supported by the professionals at NIDA. Rachel qualified for multiple studies and found a sense of purpose in contributing to addiction science. Since participating in the trials, Rachel has become involved in productive activities and shared her story at a NIDA conference.
Today, Rachel’s physical health is good, but she struggles with mental health issues like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. She attends counseling sessions regularly to manage her mental well-being. Rachel encourages others with OUD to seek treatment and not be too hard on themselves during the recovery process.
For those supporting individuals with OUD, Rachel advises seeking help for themselves and understanding that there are different ways to offer support. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and setting boundaries while helping someone with OUD.
Rachel is grateful for the opportunity to turn her addiction struggles into something positive through research participation and advocacy. She dedicates her story to her late cat, McAdoo. Through her journey, Rachel hopes to inspire others to seek help, never give up, and keep coming back to recovery efforts.
