Understanding Ibuprofen Addiction Potential
Is ibuprofen an addictive drug? No, ibuprofen is not considered addictive in the traditional sense. It does not produce euphoria, create physical dependence, or trigger withdrawal symptoms in most users. However, rare cases of ibuprofen misuse meeting the criteria for substance use disorder have been documented.
| Quick Facts: Is Ibuprofen Addictive? |
|---|
| ✓ Not classified as a controlled substance by the DEA |
| ✓ Does not activate brain reward pathways like addictive drugs |
| ✓ Rarely causes psychological dependence (only 0.04% of users) |
| ✓ Physical addiction is extremely uncommon |
| ✓ No withdrawal syndrome typically occurs upon discontinuation |
| ✓ Misuse is usually driven by inadequate pain relief, not addiction |
When most people think about drug addiction, they picture substances like opioids, alcohol, or cocaine. Ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter pain reliever that millions use daily, rarely enters this conversation.
Ibuprofen belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) class. It’s widely available without a prescription under brand names like Advil and Motrin. Though generally considered safe when used as directed, concerns occasionally arise about potential misuse.
While ibuprofen doesn’t produce the “high” associated with addictive substances, a small subset of users may develop problematic use patterns. In a 2003 survey of over 36,000 adults, only about 0.04% met criteria for substance use disorder involving NSAIDs like ibuprofen. This makes ibuprofen addiction extremely rare compared to other substances.
The medical community recognizes that some individuals might misuse ibuprofen by taking higher-than-recommended doses, using it for longer periods than advised, or continuing use despite harmful effects. This behavior doesn’t typically stem from seeking euphoria but rather from attempting to manage persistent pain or other symptoms.
What Is Ibuprofen and How Does It Work?
When you reach for that bottle of Advil or Motrin in your medicine cabinet, you’re grabbing one of the most widely used pain relievers in the world. But have you ever wondered what’s actually happening in your body when you take it?
Ibuprofen belongs to a family of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Its magic happens at the cellular level, where it blocks special enzymes called cyclooxygenase (COX). These enzymes normally help produce prostaglandins—hormone-like substances that trigger inflammation, pain, and fever in your body. By reducing prostaglandin production, ibuprofen helps calm inflammation and ease discomfort.
Your body processes ibuprofen quite efficiently. After swallowing a tablet, it gets absorbed through your digestive system within 1-2 hours. Your liver then metabolizes it, and your kidneys eventually filter it out. This entire journey typically takes just a few hours, which is why you might need to take another dose for ongoing pain.
Unlike medications that can lead to addiction, ibuprofen doesn’t activate your brain’s reward pathways. As Dr. Richard Saitz, a physician who studies substance use disorders, explains: “Unlike opioids or benzodiazepines, ibuprofen does not activate the brain’s reward pathways, which is a key factor in the development of addiction.”
Common Medical Uses
You’ve probably reached for ibuprofen to soothe a throbbing headache, but its uses extend far beyond that occasional tension in your temples.
Fever reduction is one of ibuprofen’s most valued benefits, making it a medicine cabinet staple during cold and flu season. It’s also the go-to for many types of pain—from headaches and toothaches to menstrual cramps and muscle aches.
For those living with inflammatory conditions like arthritis, ibuprofen can be a daily companion that helps manage joint pain and stiffness. Athletes and weekend warriors alike appreciate its ability to reduce swelling and discomfort from sports injuries like sprains.
Many doctors recommend ibuprofen first for mild to moderate pain because it effectively addresses both the pain itself and the inflammation often causing it—all with fewer risks than some stronger pain medications.
Recommended Dosage & Duration
Taking the right amount of ibuprofen is crucial for both safety and effectiveness. Think of it as finding that “sweet spot” where you get relief without unnecessary risks.
For over-the-counter use, adults typically take 200-400 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, with a maximum daily limit of 1,200 mg (usually six standard tablets). If your doctor prescribes higher-strength ibuprofen, you might take 400-800 mg doses with a maximum daily limit of 3,200 mg under medical supervision.
Following these guidelines isn’t just about playing by the rules—it’s about protecting your health. A Cleveland Clinic study found that about 15% of NSAID users take more than the recommended amount, which increases risks without improving pain relief.
Timing matters too. For fever, limit use to 3 days without medical guidance. For pain, 10 days is the general cutoff for self-treatment. Beyond these timeframes, it’s best to check in with your healthcare provider.
As Dr. Alexander Walley, a researcher in substance use disorders, wisely puts it: “The key principle with ibuprofen is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed. This minimizes the risk of side effects while providing adequate pain relief.”
Remember: when it comes to ibuprofen, more isn’t better—better is better. Finding the right dose for your needs is the safest approach to pain management.
Is Ibuprofen an Addictive Drug?
When we talk about addiction, most people think of substances like heroin or alcohol. But what about that bottle of Advil in your medicine cabinet? Is ibuprofen an addictive drug? This question deserves a thoughtful, evidence-based answer.
Unlike opioids or benzodiazepines, ibuprofen doesn’t trigger the brain’s reward pathways that typically fuel addictive behaviors. It doesn’t create a “high” or feelings of euphoria that make people crave more. However, some individuals do develop patterns of use that might raise eyebrows.
According to the DSM-5 (the manual doctors use to diagnose mental disorders), substance use disorder is identified when someone meets at least two of eleven specific criteria. These include taking more of the substance than intended, unsuccessful attempts to cut down, spending lots of time obtaining or using it, experiencing cravings, and continuing use despite harmful consequences.
Interestingly, a 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health involving over 68,000 people found that only about 0.3% (roughly 190 individuals) reported ever using an NSAID “non-medically,” with ibuprofen being the most common. This tiny percentage suggests that true ibuprofen addiction is extremely rare.
Scientific Definition: is ibuprofen an addictive drug?
From a scientific standpoint, ibuprofen is not an addictive drug in the traditional sense. Addiction typically involves two key components:
Physical dependence happens when your body adapts to a drug’s presence and requires it to function normally, leading to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Psychological dependence involves compulsive drug-seeking behavior and continued use despite negative consequences.
Ibuprofen rarely causes either type of dependence. As Dr. Laura Vercammen, who has studied substance use disorders, explains: “Ibuprofen doesn’t create the neurochemical changes associated with addiction. There’s no euphoria, no high, and typically no withdrawal syndrome. This makes true addiction to ibuprofen extremely uncommon.”
That said, some researchers have observed that certain individuals might develop a form of psychological dependence on ibuprofen, particularly when using it to manage chronic pain. This is sometimes called a “process addiction,” where the habit of taking the medication becomes compulsive rather than the drug itself causing addiction.
Evidence From Case Reports: is ibuprofen an addictive drug?
While rare, there have been documented cases of ibuprofen dependence in medical literature that shed light on how this uncommon situation might develop.
One notable case from 2017 described a 58-year-old HIV-positive woman who met four DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorder related to ibuprofen. Her experience included needing increasingly larger doses to get the same effect (tolerance), failed attempts to quit, strong urges to use ibuprofen, and continued use despite knowing it was causing physical problems.
Another case involved a 17-year-old who showed signs of ibuprofen dependence, including adjusting her dosage herself to relieve withdrawal-like symptoms when she tried to stop taking it.
“These case reports are valuable teaching moments,” notes Dr. Alicia Ventura, a substance use disorders researcher. “They remind us that even medications we consider benign can, in rare instances, be misused. However, they represent extremely uncommon situations and shouldn’t cause alarm for the vast majority of ibuprofen users.”
These rare cases show that while ibuprofen addiction is possible, it’s extremely uncommon. Most people who take ibuprofen as directed never experience anything resembling addiction. Still, understanding the small but real risk helps us use this common medication more wisely and recognize potential problems before they become serious.
Signs, Symptoms & Risk Factors of Ibuprofen Misuse
While ibuprofen is not an addictive drug in the traditional sense, some people do develop problematic patterns of use. Recognizing the early warning signs can help prevent serious health complications down the road.
If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for that bottle of ibuprofen more frequently than recommended, you’re not alone. A surprising Cleveland Clinic study finded that about 15% of people who use NSAIDs regularly take more than the maximum recommended daily dose—often without even realizing they’re putting themselves at risk.
What does ibuprofen misuse actually look like in everyday life? You might notice someone gradually increasing their dose over time as their body becomes accustomed to the medication. Perhaps they’ve been using ibuprofen for months on end without consulting a doctor. Some people become oddly preoccupied with making sure they never run out, keeping bottles stashed in their car, desk, and multiple rooms at home.
Physical symptoms often tell an important story too. Many people caught in a cycle of ibuprofen overuse develop what doctors call “rebound headaches”—where the pain actually worsens when the medication wears off, creating a vicious cycle of increased use. Frequent stomach discomfort, unusual bruising, or swelling in the hands and feet can also signal that something’s not right.
“Many people simply don’t realize they’re developing a problematic relationship with over-the-counter medications,” explains Dr. Margo Godersky, a public health researcher. “The assumption is that if you can buy it without a prescription, it must be completely safe to use however you want.”
Warning Signs to Watch For
Pay attention if you or someone you care about shows these concerning behaviors around ibuprofen use:
Feeling strangely urgent about taking ibuprofen even when pain is minimal or nonexistent. This sense of craving isn’t typically about getting high, but rather about preventing anticipated pain or discomfort.
Hiding pills or being secretive about how much ibuprofen they’re taking. When people start concealing medication use from family members or healthcare providers, it’s often because they know on some level that their use has become problematic.
Trying and failing to cut back multiple times. Someone might promise themselves “I’ll only take it when absolutely necessary” but find themselves unable to stick to that plan.
Letting ibuprofen use interfere with daily life. When someone starts missing work, school, or family obligations because of their medication use or its effects, that’s a serious red flag.
Experiencing withdrawal-like symptoms when trying to stop. While not a true withdrawal syndrome like with opioids, some people report increased pain, irritability, or other uncomfortable symptoms when they try to reduce their ibuprofen use.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Certain groups seem particularly vulnerable to developing problematic patterns with ibuprofen use.
People living with chronic pain conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or recurring migraines often find themselves in a difficult position. Their pain is real and persistent, making regular use of pain relievers tempting. Yet this same regular use puts them at higher risk for developing problematic usage patterns.
Those with anxiety disorders sometimes turn to ibuprofen to manage physical symptoms of their anxiety—like headaches or muscle tension—rather than addressing the underlying anxiety itself.
Individuals with previous substance use disorders may be more vulnerable to developing problematic relationships with any substance, including over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen.
Athletes represent another high-risk group. Many sports participants take NSAIDs preventively before activities to ward off anticipated pain and inflammation, potentially leading to overreliance over time.
People with somatic symptom disorders who experience heightened concern about physical symptoms might be particularly prone to overusing medications in an attempt to control those symptoms.
Here at Still Water Wellness Group, we’ve noticed that people dealing with both mental health challenges and chronic pain face a particularly difficult road. The physical pain is very real, yet so is the psychological component that can drive medication-seeking behavior. That’s why our approach addresses both aspects simultaneously, helping people find healthier ways to manage discomfort without overreliance on any single medication.
If you’re concerned about your own ibuprofen use or that of someone you care about, reaching out for professional guidance is always a good first step. While ibuprofen isn’t an addictive drug like opioids, problematic use patterns can still develop and deserve compassionate attention.
Health Risks, Side Effects & Overdose
While ibuprofen is generally safe when used as directed, misuse or overuse can lead to significant health complications. Understanding these risks is crucial for safe use.
That bottle of ibuprofen in your medicine cabinet might seem harmless, but when misused, it can cause serious health problems. Many people are surprised to learn that this common over-the-counter medication can affect multiple organ systems.
Gastrointestinal damage is perhaps the most well-known risk. When you take ibuprofen regularly or in high doses, it can irritate your stomach lining, potentially leading to painful ulcers, internal bleeding, or even perforation—conditions that can become life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Your kidneys are also vulnerable. Kidney injury occurs because ibuprofen can reduce blood flow to these vital organs. “I’ve seen patients develop acute kidney problems from taking too much ibuprofen, especially when they’re already dehydrated,” shares Dr. Will Long, an addiction medicine specialist we work with at Still Water Wellness Group.
What many people don’t realize is that cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes can be linked to long-term, high-dose ibuprofen use. This risk is particularly concerning for those who already have heart conditions or high blood pressure.
While not as common as with acetaminophen, liver damage can occur with excessive ibuprofen use, especially when combined with alcohol. Your liver works hard to metabolize medications, and overloading it with too much ibuprofen puts unnecessary stress on this vital organ.
Hypertension is another potential consequence. Ibuprofen can raise your blood pressure by affecting kidney function and causing fluid retention. For the millions of Americans already managing high blood pressure, this added complication can be serious.
In rare but severe cases, extreme overuse has been linked to rhabdomyolysis—a dangerous condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing proteins into the bloodstream that can cause kidney failure.
Short-Term & Long-Term Side Effects
Even when taking recommended doses, ibuprofen can cause side effects that range from merely annoying to potentially serious.
In the short term, you might experience nausea and stomach pain after taking ibuprofen. That burning sensation of heartburn and indigestion is also common. Some people report dizziness and headaches—ironically, when taking medication often used to treat headaches.
Mild allergic reactions like rashes and itching can occur, and you might notice some fluid retention and swelling, particularly in your ankles and feet. Your blood pressure might also tick upward temporarily.
The long-term picture can be more concerning. Regular use over months or years can lead to gastric ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding that might go unnoticed until they become severe. Chronic kidney disease can develop gradually, with symptoms appearing only after significant damage has occurred.
Your cardiovascular risk increases with extended use, and you might develop tinnitus—that annoying ringing in your ears that can be difficult to treat. For those taking blood pressure medications, ibuprofen can reduce their effectiveness, and chronic blood loss from stomach irritation can lead to anemia.
“The risk-benefit calculation for ibuprofen changes dramatically with long-term use,” explains Dr. Long. “What’s safe for occasional use can become problematic when taken regularly over months or years.”
Overdose: Symptoms & Emergency Steps
Unlike with opioids, people rarely think about overdosing on ibuprofen—but it happens more often than you might think. A severe overdose is typically defined as more than 800 mg per kilogram of body weight (that’s roughly 40 tablets for an average adult).
If someone has taken too much ibuprofen, they’ll likely experience nausea and severe vomiting first. Stomach pain and gastrointestinal bleeding may follow. They might seem drowsy and confused, complain of a headache and dizziness, or mention a ringing in their ears.
In more serious cases, their vision may blur, they might develop metabolic acidosis (too much acid in the body), or even experience seizures. In extreme overdoses, coma is possible.
If you suspect an ibuprofen overdose, don’t wait—seek emergency medical attention immediately. Unlike with opioid overdoses, there’s no specific antidote for ibuprofen. Treatment typically involves:
- Gastric lavage (stomach pumping) if the overdose was recent
- Activated charcoal to absorb the medication
- Supportive care for symptoms
- Monitoring of kidney function and acid-base balance
At Still Water Wellness Group, we emphasize that any medication, even those available over-the-counter, should be used with caution and according to guidelines. Our treatment programs in Orange County include education about safe medication use as part of our comprehensive approach to recovery.
Prevention, Safe Use & Treatment Options
When it comes to ibuprofen, prevention is truly the best medicine. Using this common pain reliever wisely can help you avoid developing problematic use patterns while still getting the relief you need.
Safe Use Guidelines
Think of ibuprofen like any other tool—it works best when used correctly. To keep your use in the safe zone, remember a few simple guidelines.
Always follow what the label tells you. It might seem obvious, but many of us skim past those instructions, assuming we know best. Take only what you need to manage your symptoms—often a lower dose works just as well as a higher one.
“Most people don’t realize they can get effective pain relief with less medication than they think,” explains Dr. Amanda Stevens, who specializes in pain management. “Using the lowest effective dose not only reduces risks but often works just as well.”
Time matters too. For over-the-counter use, don’t take ibuprofen for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever without checking with your doctor. Taking it with food can help protect your stomach lining from irritation.
Be particularly careful about mixing medications. Avoid taking multiple NSAIDs at once—combining ibuprofen with naproxen or aspirin increases your risk of side effects without adding benefits. And that glass of wine? Maybe reconsider when you’re taking ibuprofen, as alcohol significantly raises the risk of stomach bleeding and liver strain.
A simple trick many of our clients at Still Water Wellness Group find helpful is keeping a medication journal or using a pill tracking app. As one client told us, “I had no idea I was taking ibuprofen almost every day until I started tracking it. Seeing the pattern in black and white was eye-opening.”
Self-Monitoring & Doctor Guidance
Becoming your own health advocate means paying attention to how and when you use medications like ibuprofen. Try keeping track of how many pills you take each day—a simple note in your phone works wonders. Some people find a pain journal helpful, where they document not just medication use but also pain levels, triggers, and how well the medication worked.
Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are essential, especially if you’re managing chronic pain. Be honest about your ibuprofen use—healthcare providers aren’t there to judge but to help you find the safest, most effective approach to managing your health.
If you’ve been taking higher doses regularly, don’t stop suddenly. Work with your doctor on a gradual tapering plan to avoid rebound pain or other uncomfortable symptoms.
“The relationship between you and your healthcare provider should be a partnership,” we often tell clients at Still Water Wellness Group. “The more transparent you are about your medication use, the better they can help you find the right balance.”
Professional Help & Recovery Pathways
If ibuprofen use has become problematic for you or someone you care about, know that help is available and recovery is possible. The journey typically begins with a thorough medical evaluation to check for any health complications and develop a safe plan for reducing use if needed.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) often proves extremely effective in addressing problematic medication use. This approach helps identify thought patterns that lead to overreliance on medications and develops healthier ways to cope with pain or discomfort.
Many people find that exploring alternative pain management techniques opens up a whole new world of relief. Physical therapy, acupuncture, massage, and even certain types of exercise can significantly reduce pain without the risks of medication.
Group therapy provides something uniquely powerful—connection with others who truly understand your experience. As one of our clients at Still Water Wellness Group shared, “Hearing others talk about their journey made me feel less alone and gave me hope that I could change too.”
Holistic approaches like mindfulness meditation, yoga, and stress reduction techniques can complement traditional treatment by addressing the whole person, not just the symptom.
At Still Water Wellness Group in Orange County, we understand that dependency on any substance—even one as seemingly harmless as an over-the-counter pain reliever—deserves compassionate, professional care. Our treatment programs blend evidence-based approaches with personalized attention in a peaceful environment that supports healing.
“Recovery isn’t just about stopping something,” our clinical director often reminds us. “It’s about starting something new—a healthier relationship with pain management and with yourself.”
Our serene setting throughout Orange County, including locations in Irvine and Newport Beach, creates the ideal space for this transformative work. If you’re concerned about your ibuprofen use or that of someone you love, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Learn more about our prescription drug addiction treatment center and how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ibuprofen and Addiction
Can long-term daily use lead to withdrawal?
If you’ve been taking ibuprofen regularly for a long time, you might wonder what happens when you stop. Unlike opioids or benzodiazepines that cause classic withdrawal syndromes, ibuprofen doesn’t typically create the same kind of dependence. However, stopping suddenly after long-term use can still be uncomfortable.
Many people experience what feels like withdrawal but is actually the return of their original symptoms:
- Your pain may come back, sometimes feeling worse than before (rebound pain)
- Headaches might return with greater intensity, especially if you were taking ibuprofen for headache management
- Inflammation that was being suppressed may flare up again
- You might notice changes in your mood or feel more irritable
“What some people interpret as withdrawal may actually be the return of symptoms that were being suppressed by the medication,” explains Dr. Richard Saitz. “However, we should take patients’ experiences seriously, as the distinction may not matter in terms of their discomfort.”
In rare documented cases, some individuals have reported experiences that more closely resemble true withdrawal, including cravings and psychological distress. These experiences, while uncommon, shouldn’t be dismissed.
If you’ve been taking ibuprofen daily and want to stop, consider tapering down gradually under a doctor’s guidance rather than quitting cold turkey. This gentler approach can help minimize any uncomfortable effects.
Is it safe to mix ibuprofen with alcohol or other NSAIDs?
Mixing ibuprofen with alcohol or other pain relievers might seem harmless, but these combinations can create serious health risks that many people don’t realize.
When you combine ibuprofen with alcohol, you’re setting yourself up for trouble. This mixture significantly increases your risk of developing stomach bleeding and ulcers, as both substances irritate your stomach lining. Your liver, which has to process both the medication and the alcohol, faces additional stress. Your kidneys can also suffer damage, especially if this becomes a regular habit. On top of all that, you might experience increased drowsiness or dizziness, which can be dangerous if you’re driving or operating machinery.
Taking ibuprofen with other NSAIDs like aspirin or naproxen is equally risky. You won’t get better pain relief, but you’ll double your chances of stomach bleeding and put extra strain on your kidneys. There’s also the potential for dangerous drug interactions that could have serious consequences.
A simple rule to follow: stick to one NSAID at a time, and skip the alcohol when you’re taking any pain reliever in this category. If your pain isn’t being adequately managed, talk to your healthcare provider about safe alternatives rather than adding more medications on your own.
How quickly does tolerance develop?
Unlike addictive substances where you need increasingly larger doses to feel the same effects, ibuprofen doesn’t typically cause true tolerance. However, you might notice that it seems less effective over time, which can happen for several reasons.
Some people experience a phenomenon called tachyphylaxis – a rapid decrease in response after repeated doses. Others find that ibuprofen becomes less effective because their underlying condition is actually getting worse, requiring stronger intervention. With headaches in particular, frequent ibuprofen use can lead to medication-overuse headaches that occur as the drug wears off, creating a frustrating cycle.
If you’re finding that your regular dose of ibuprofen isn’t working as well as it used to, resist the urge to simply take more. Instead, check in with your healthcare provider. This change could be signaling that:
- You need a different approach to managing your pain
- Your underlying condition requires further investigation
- It might be time to consider alternative medications or treatments
At Still Water Wellness Group, we often work with clients who have gradually increased their use of over-the-counter pain medications without realizing the potential risks. Our team in Orange County provides comprehensive assessments to identify when tolerance-like symptoms may be developing and helps create safer, more effective pain management strategies.
Conclusion
Is ibuprofen an addictive drug? After examining the evidence, we can see that traditional addiction to ibuprofen is extremely rare, though some people may develop problematic use patterns. Understanding where the line falls between appropriate therapeutic use and misuse makes all the difference in staying healthy and avoiding complications.
For most of us who take ibuprofen occasionally for headaches or muscle pain, following the dosing guidelines on the label keeps us safely in the “appropriate use” category. The vast majority of people who use ibuprofen as directed for short periods face minimal risk of developing dependency issues.
That said, those rare documented cases of ibuprofen use disorder serve as important reminders that even medications available at your local drugstore deserve respect. The potential health complications from misuse aren’t trivial—gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and increased cardiovascular risks can have serious consequences.
Living with chronic pain presents a particular challenge. Relying too heavily on any single medication, even one as common as ibuprofen, isn’t ideal for long-term management. A better approach combines multiple strategies: perhaps physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles, stress reduction techniques to address the mind-body connection, appropriate exercise custom to your condition, and addressing any underlying anxiety or depression that might amplify pain perception.
Here at Still Water Wellness Group in Orange County, we’ve worked with many clients navigating these complex waters. Our approach always begins with seeing the whole person, not just a medication issue. We believe in:
- Taking time to understand both the physical pain and emotional factors at play
- Creating treatment plans that fit your unique situation, not one-size-fits-all solutions
- Using therapies backed by solid research and evidence
- Incorporating holistic approaches that address the whole person
- Supporting you with genuine compassion throughout your journey
If you’ve found yourself concerned about your ibuprofen use—perhaps you’re taking it more frequently than you’d like, or in higher doses than recommended—please know you’re not alone. Our peaceful facilities throughout Orange County provide a calming environment where healing can begin.
Reaching out for help with medication concerns shows strength, not weakness. It demonstrates self-awareness and a commitment to your wellbeing. With the right support and strategies, you can find effective ways to manage pain while keeping risks to a minimum and maintaining your quality of life.
For more information about our addiction treatment services or to speak with someone who understands, please visit our website or contact us directly. Your wellness journey begins with a single step, and we’re here to walk beside you every step of the way.