Opiate damage - Trying to help friend

[AJWS6]

Hi,
I have a friend, whom I love and care about very much.  She used Opiates daily for 4 years, and quit 8 months ago.  I don't know what Opiates are, or what type of damage Opiates can do to a person.  

But my friend, stresses me out really bad, cause she will ask me the most simple questions, a 1st grader could answer, or common sense questions, and ask me lots of questions all day long, as if her brain doesn't work.  It's almost as if, her brain was reduced to the mentality of a 5 year old.  

Also she only thinks of herself, she is very self consumed, as if no one else exist in life.  

I would talk to her about something, and she would completely change the subject, she doesn't listen to anything anyone say's to her, family, friends, etc....  it is so annoying.  It's like she is consumed in her own world.  Maybe Opiates taught her to be this way, I don't know.  But she doesn't comprehend anything.  

Such as, I would say something to her, she changes the subject, then 10 minutes later, ask me what I have already told her.      

If we go to the store, and I don't buy her something, she will act like a 5 year old child, start whining, have a temper tantrum, then it's take me home, everytime I don't agree with something, but once she calms down, she's fine.  

I want to help her, but I don't know how ?

It's almost as if, I am raising a child, rather then sharing a friendship.    

I try to be patient as possible, understanding, loving, caring etc.....  But nothing ever changes with her.  

Is this common for Opiate withdrawal ??  How long will her behavior last ?  I cannot find information on Opiate use & damage.  Can someone help with info, so I can understand her behavior better.    

Any help appreciated.  

[AJWS6]

Hi Carrie,
Thanks so much for info, it's a start.  Just trying to understand her recovery process, and help her.  

[carr]

There is articles on PAW's aka Post Accute Withdrawals, its a syndrome we all go through and affects everyone differently. Just google it. It can last up to 18 months. When we use it depletes seratonine and dopamine. It takes awhile to get that back to producing the right amounts. But read PAW's. that should help. Good luck.

Peace and Love,

Carrie