World Mental Health Day is a day set aside to raise awareness of mental health issues and to increase efforts to support mental health. It is observed on October 10th every year. Each year, those with a vested interest in raising awareness talk about their work, what can be done to bring mental health care to all people around the world, and how to help those who end up in a Mental Health Treatment Center.  

World Mental Health Day’s Focus 

Bringing awareness to the issues of mental health is critical to beginning to reduce the stigma surrounding those that have a mental illness. Every year, a different theme or focus is at the forefront of the discussion. This year, the topic is suicide prevention. This is important because someone loses their life to suicide every 40 seconds. Whether they are veterans, a child among the rise in teen suicides, or someone you’d never expect, people that commit suicide may also have a mental illness they’ve been dealing with for some time. The goal of the day will be to take ’40 seconds of action’ where everyone can do something to raise awareness and realize the role that each person plays in helping to prevent suicide. If you or a loved one is dealing with substance abuse and mental illness, our Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program in ME can help.  

The Importance of Raising Awareness 

On World Mental Health Day, one of the goals is to help people become aware of the increasing severity of the issue by getting them to have conversations about it. This can be hard when dealing with such a taboo subject because many prejudices surround the topic. But becoming aware of the risk factors and learning ways to address them can potentially save a life.  

How to Help Raise Awareness 

There are a lot of great ways to impact mental health awareness and suicide prevention from right where you are. It doesn’t take anything special, and anyone can do it. The point is that the more we talk about it, the more it becomes okay to talk about it, and the more people will be willing to get the help they need. When getting help at Liberty Bay Recovery, we provide wholesome therapy services including cognitive behavioral therapy, holistic treatment and trauma therapy. Talking about it also includes talking to those who might be dealing with suicidal thoughts. It’s important to listen to them without judgment. Express your concerns but be reassuring to them. Work with them to create a safety plan and encourage them to get help. And learn the warning signs so that you can be prepared to help when the time comes.  

Knowing the Signs Helps Spread Awareness 

Just like mental illness, there are indicators someone is dealing with suicidal thoughts. But pain isn’t always obvious. Learning the signs can help you become more aware, and sharing them with others can help spread awareness. There are some common signs that someone needs help, with the first three on this list being immediate indicators that you should seek help. They include:  

• Talking about death, suicide, or self-harm 

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live 
• Searching online for self-harm ideas or buying a gun 
• Reckless behavior 
• Increased drug or alcohol abuse 
• Uncontrolled anger 

• No sense of purpose 
• Anxiety or agitation 
• Sudden mood changes 
• Withdrawal or loss of interest in activities 
• Changes in sleep 

What to Do When it’s Time to Seek Help 

Suicide is preventable. When suicide is the result of someone dealing with mental illness, getting them help is essential. They need to know that they aren’t alone and that healing and recovery are possible. We can help, contact Liberty Bay Recovery today. Call us at 855.607.8758 to see how we can help you or your loved one today.  

The post Raising Awareness on World Mental Health Day 2023 appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

In these challenging times, most people experience stress. The difference is in how we cope with trauma and triggers. Some of us can find balance, while others compound their problems through unhealthy coping mechanisms. One of the most significant issues in the United States is the number of people using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. In Portland, Maine, you have a place to turn to when struggling with mental health problems and substance use disorder. Liberty Bay Recovery Center provides several programs designed to get to the root of substance use disorders and get you on the path to sobriety.

Fear Responses and How They Affect Our Mental Health

Fear is at the base of many mental health issues, including PTSD. Fear and anxiety can be related to past events in our lives and triggered by similar circumstances, or they can stem from an inability to achieve balance when dealing with everyday events.

When we experience fear or anxiety, we begin to feel overwhelmed and unable to move forward freely. Sometimes, we try to escape our problems, even briefly, by turning to drugs and alcohol to relax or numb our emotions.

Just as our problems are unique, how we react to stress and traumatic events is also. Psychologists term these coping mechanisms the fight, flight or freeze response.

Often, how we respond is linked to our natural personalities and combined with learned behaviors. For example, we see how our parents and other influential figures in our lives deal with problems, and we tend to react the same way.

Fighting Your Way Through Trauma

When feeling afraid or anxious, some of us are natural fighters. When we’re in danger or feeling attacked, we might respond by confronting the problem or antagonist. The trigger can threaten our safety or a perceived slight, such as an offensive comment. However, in the fight response, the reaction is often hostility, anger, or abuse.

The pent-up hostility and anger lead to additional stress without a healthier way of coping with triggers. Eventually, it can negatively affect your mental and physical health.

Deer in the Headlights Syndrome

Have you ever been so scared or surprised by events that you froze? You feel like the proverbial deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming car on a highway at night. You know you’re in danger, but you’re unable to react.

This is known as the freeze response to fear, and it’s very common. It happens when you experience a shock to your system that is so great that your mind cannot understand it and tells your body what to do to avoid the threat. Because of this emotional and physical paralysis, our anxiety is compounded by feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy.

Fleeing From Stress

A natural response to danger or discomfort is to run away from it. This is the flight response, and it echoes how humans have dealt with danger since the dawn of our existence.

The events in our lives don’t necessarily need to be massive to send us into a downward spiral of anxiety, despair, shame, or guilt. Even one traumatic event can set the stage for continued fear-based responses in the future. In addition, a lifetime of negative events and environments, consistent patterns of unhealthy choices, or being shown ineffective coping skills can set us up for learned patterns of unhealthy reactions to trauma and stress.

Stress, Trauma, and Substance Use Disorder

How do you manage stress? For many of us, career, school, or relationship problems manifest as physical and emotional issues, such as sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, and anxiety. Sometimes, we take a drink, pop a pill, or smoke a joint to deal with emotional pain.

For some, the first instinct after a traumatic event is to have a drink. We begin to feel relaxed afterward, and we might believe that we can better cope with whatever is happening around us. This practice is often mirrored in literature and film, and it teaches us to escape physical or emotional pain by self-medicating with drugs or alcohol.

Such self-medicating can lead to a vicious cycle of dealing with outside stressors by artificial means. Rather than developing the tools to manage negative life experiences, we mask our pain and anxiety with intoxicants. Doing this worsens additional problems unless we receive help, guidance, and support to resolve the underlying issues.

According to information presented by the National Library of Medicine, the rates of SUDs among historically traumatized populations, such as those living in urban centers, correlated directly with the levels of trauma suffered, whether through witnessing events like violent crime or personally experiencing them as victims.

Many study participants were victims of childhood sex abuse, domestic abuse, and other violent crimes. Of the participants in the studies:

• 8% used marijuana
• 39% used alcohol
• 1% used some form of cocaine
• 2% used heroin or other opiates

The results were even more far-reaching in a report compiled by the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.

The ISTSS found that:

• Between one-tenth and one-third of those recovering from an illness, accident, or violent crime reported excessive alcohol use. The greater their physical pain, the more likely they were to self-medicate.
• Up to 80% of veterans seeking treatment for PTSD also meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD).
• Victims of sexual assault reported higher incidences of substance use disorder than those who have not experienced such attacks. This statistic was equally true for men and women represented in the report.
• Children and adolescents who have experienced sexual or physical abuse are four times more likely than their peers to develop SUDs.

Moreover, people diagnosed with PTSD are 14 times more likely to be diagnosed with alcohol or substance use disorder. Approximately 20% of those diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression also fit the criteria for AUD/SUD.

Although anyone can experience alcohol and substance use disorders, these statistics don’t mean everyone enduring prolonged stress, or trauma will develop a substance use disorder. It also depends on your background, conditioning, and the amount of support and stability in your life.

Signs of Stress/Trauma-Related Mental Health Disorders

We all have some stress in our lives. It doesn’t need to be a significant life event that brings it on, and it’s not always negative. Planning a wedding or the birth of a child are joyful events that are notoriously stressful. Having a high-pressure career can lead to a chronic state of tension. How can you tell when normal stress levels have transitioned into a full-blown mood disorder?

Johns Hopkins Medical Center lists the symptoms of mood disorders as follows:

• Persistent feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
• Ongoing feelings of anxiety or sadness
• Low self-esteem or feeling unworthy
• Excessive feelings of shame or guilt
• No interest in activities or things that once brought joy
• Decreased energy
• Sleep disturbances or insomnia
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss or gain
• Anger and irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Repeated thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Although chronic stress, anxiety, and depression are prevalent in our society, and many of those coping with these disorders also struggle with substance use, one of the most tenacious culprits is PTSD. This condition can be complex and long-term, often at the root of anxiety and depression.

According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of PTSD include:

• Sudden bursts of anger or irritability
• Problems sleeping, including nightmares
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of emotional numbness
• Avoiding people, places, and activities
• Reliving the trauma or having flashbacks to traumatic events

Attempts to numb the emotional pain of these symptoms often lead to using drugs or alcohol. In addition, repeated use of intoxicating substances can lead to dependence and addiction.

Dependence means that your brain and body have become accustomed to the effects of your substance of choice and need more with each use to continue achieving the desired feeling.

Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

Whether the substance of choice is alcohol, prescription or illegal drugs, or some combination, the symptoms of substance use disorder in any form are quite similar. However, it is important to note that these symptoms can be subtle and easy to hide. Symptoms of addiction or substance misuse include:

• Preoccupation with using or finding drugs/alcohol
• Inability to control, cut down, or stop substance use
• Feelings of panic when alcohol/drugs are unavailable
• Secretive behavior and irritability when questioned about the use
• Making risky decisions while under the influence of alcohol/drugs
• Continued use despite negative consequences
• Entering dangerous situations to obtain drugs/alcohol

There are also many unhealthy behaviors that may indicate a person is struggling with substance use. Distinguishing the behavioral signs of addiction from less server issues can be difficult. Possible behavioral signs of alcohol and drug dependency can include:

• Increased absences and tardiness, declining performance, and unusual disinterest at work or school
• Disregard for personal hygiene and appearance, losing or gaining weight rapidly, decreased energy or motivation
• Avoiding, becoming secretive with, and other drastic changes in relationships with family and friends
• Sudden and unexplained financial problems or asking for money without providing an explanation
• Uncharacteristic arrests and unexpected legal problems

If you recognize these symptoms and behaviors in yourself or a loved one and want to learn more. Contact us today. Our knowledgeable and compassionate Addiction and Recovery Representatives can answer any questions and help you understand substance use disorder better.

Treating SUD and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

At Liberty Bay Recovery Center, we are equipped to help you or your loved one cope with substance use and mental health disorders. Our comfortable setting, compassionate staff, and various programs provide the guidance, support, and real-world skills to manage whatever life throws your way.

Recovery Treatment Programs

We offer several options for drug/alcohol rehabilitation, including:

• • Medical Detox
  • Residential and Inpatient Rehab
  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Alcohol and Drug Detox/Withdrawal

The road to recovery process begins with detox and withdrawal, which can be managed with medications to ease the pain of withdrawal.

The side effects of detox, aka withdrawal symptoms, can vary depending on the type of substances used, but they generally include:

• • Insomnia
  • Mood Swings
  • Irritability
  • Intense drug or alcohol cravings
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Body aches and pain

Therapeutic Options

Each of our treatment programs includes individual and group therapy. Designed to uncover and address the root causes of addiction and any co-occurring conditions related to or worsened by substance use. Our addiction therapy services include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dual Diagnosis Treatment, Trauma Therapy, and Medication Management.

Group therapy offers peer-to-peer support and accountability. Clients can also learn new coping skills and tools to help them manage stress or trauma in the future. Medical detox is a technique that uses approved medications to ease the pain of withdrawal and prevent cravings that can lead to relapse.

Supplemental Therapies

Because holistic approaches to wellness support long-term recovery, we offer a range of supplementary therapies. Such as yoga classes and art therapy.

These practices will help you find peace and balance while you’re in the program and help you maintain balance and deal with stress when you return to the outside world.

Nutritional support in the form of healthful meals and snacks will provide a structured daily routine. This offers a way of returning to healthy habits like eating well while regaining strength.

Help Is Close at Hand

When you can cope with stress and trauma in a balanced, holistic way, you’ll unshackle yourself from self-harming behaviors. At Liberty Bay Recovery Center, we invite you to experience the power of freedom.

Contact us to learn more about our programs or arrange treatment.

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It’s no secret that recovery from drug and alcohol addiction is a long and challenging process. It takes a lot of courage and strength to face and overcome addiction and even more to stay committed to recovery. So, if you’re seeking an extra boost in your recovery journey, consider using positive affirmations. They might be the thing that helps you to achieve lasting sobriety finally.

What Are Positive Affirmations and Why Do You Need Them?

Positive affirmations are short, powerful statements that you repeat to yourself regularly. They help change negative to positive thinking and, ultimately, help you achieve your goals. If you are feeling doubtful about your ability to stay sober, remember that you can always turn to your affirmations for a much-needed boost of positivity. Take advantage of the power of positive affirmations to do the following.

Boost Self-Esteem

Substance use and addiction can affect your self-esteem, making it hard to believe in yourself. Positive affirmations can help to change that. By repeating positive statements about yourself, you can start to accept them. And when you believe in yourself, you are more likely to succeed in recovery.

Stay Motivated

When you’re feeling low, finding the motivation to stay on track with your recovery can be challenging. But staying focused and committed is easier if you regularly remind yourself of your goals and what you’re working toward.

Develop a Positive Mindset

Positive affirmations can help to create a positive mindset. A positive mindset is essential for recovery success. If you think positively about your ability to recover, you’re more likely to achieve your goals. Also, you’re better equipped to deal with difficult situations and setbacks when you have a positive mindset.

Believe in Your Ability to Recover

The road to recovery can be challenging. There will be ups and downs, and there will be times when you feel like giving up. However, positive affirmations can help you to believe in your ability to recover, no matter how difficult things get.

Obtain Motivation to Attend Rehab

Finally, one of the most challenging decisions you’ll ever make is whether or not to enter rehab. It’s a big step, and feeling scared and unsure is natural. Fortunately, positive affirmations can remind you of your goals and what you’re working toward, and it’s easier to decide to seek help.

10 Examples of Positive Affirmations to Use in Recovery

The following are ten examples of positive affirmations that you can use in your recovery journey. Remember, the key is finding affirmations that resonate with you and make you feel good. Doing this will help you get one step closer to achieving your goals.

1.  “I Am Capable of Overcoming Anything”

You’ve faced a lot in your life and overcome it all. You can handle anything that comes your way, including addiction recovery.

2.  “I Deserve to Be Happy and Healthy”

You are worthy of a happy and healthy life, free from the clutches of addiction. Recovery is possible, and you deserve it.

3.  “I Am Strong Enough to Do This”

You might not feel strong all the time, but you are. You have the strength within you to fight for your recovery.

4.  “I Believe in Myself”

It’s time to start believing in yourself again. You can do this, and you will succeed.

5.  “I Am Worthy of a Good Life”

You deserve to live a good life, free from the pain of addiction. Recovery is possible, and you are worthy of it.

6.  “I Can Do This”

You might not feel like you can do this right now, but you can. Just take it one day at a time and believe in yourself.

7.  “I Deserve to Be Sober”

Sobriety is possible, and you deserve it. You are worthy of a life free from addiction.

8.  “I Am Capable of Change”

You can change, and you will. Addiction recovery is possible, and you are capable of achieving it.

9.  “I Will Get through This”

The recovery journey might be challenging, but you will make it through. Just keep taking it one day at a time.

10.  “I Deserve to Be Happy and Healthy”

You are worthy of a happy and healthy life, free from the clutches of addiction. Recovery, health, and happiness are all possible.

Tips to Get Started with Positive Affirmations in Your Life

There are endless ways to use positive affirmations. Whichever method you choose, make sure you’re consistent with it. The more often you repeat your affirmations, the more likely you are to believe them. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some tips for incorporating them into your life:

Pick Affirmations That Resonate with You

You’re more likely to believe an affirmation if it feels true. So, when choosing affirmations, make sure to pick ones that resonate. Also, try to focus on affirmations that are specific to your goals.

Keep It Short and Simple

When it comes to positive affirmations, less is more. So, keep your affirmations short and to the point. This will make them easier to remember and believe.

Repeat Them Daily

Repetition is vital when it comes to positive affirmations. The more you say them, the more likely you are to believe them. So, make a point of saying your affirmations aloud multiple times daily.

Write Them Down

Writing down your affirmations can also be helpful. Writing has a powerful effect on our brains and can help to change our thinking and behavior.

Post Them Where You’ll See Them

If you need help remembering to say affirmations, try posting them where you’ll see them regularly. For example, you could put them on your bathroom mirror, car, or fridge.

Say Them with Conviction

The way you say your affirmations is essential. Each time you say them, really believe in what you’re saying. Putting feeling into it and meaning will help make them more powerful.

Use “I” Statements

When crafting your affirmations, make sure to speak in the first person. For example, instead of saying, “you will succeed,” say, “I will succeed.” Speaking in the first person will make your affirmations more personal and believable.

Visualize What You Want

For even more power, try visualizing what you want while saying your affirmations. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, imagine yourself at your goal weight. Or, for recovery, if you’re trying to quit using drugs and alcohol, visualize yourself living a sober life.

Be Patient

Changing your thinking patterns takes time, so don’t expect miracles overnight. Just keep at it and be patient. Remember, small changes can lead to significant results.

Repeat Them Out Loud

Repeating affirmations out loud is another excellent way to incorporate them into your life. Speaking the words out loud can help you to believe in what you’re saying, and it can also be helpful in moments of doubt or negativity.

Listen to Affirmation Recordings

Listening to affirmation recordings is another great way to incorporate positive affirmations into your life. Listening to recordings can be helpful if you need help remembering or want to hear them differently.

Create a Vision Board

Creating a vision board is a great way to visualize your affirmations and goals. If you need help creating one, there are plenty of tutorials online, or you could even ask our counselors for assistance.

Get Support

If you struggle to make positive affirmations work for you, consider getting professional help. Our counselors and recovery advisors can assist you in changing your thinking patterns and reaching your goals.

How to Overcome Any Doubts or Negative Thoughts About Affirmations

Negativity and self-doubt are common barriers to using positive affirmations. If you’re struggling with these issues, here are some tips to help you overcome them:

Recognize Your Negative Thoughts

When you are able to recognize negative thoughts, it’s easier to let them go. Pay attention to your inner dialogue, noticing when you think negatively about yourself or your ability to achieve your goals.

Reframe Your Negative Thoughts

Once you’ve recognized your negative thoughts, it’s time to reframe them. For example, if you’re thinking, “I’m not good enough,” try reframing it to “I’m doing my best, and that’s good enough.”

Practice Self-Compassion

Being gentle with yourself is also important when overcoming negative thinking patterns. Remember, change takes time and patience. So be patient with yourself, and keep practicing self-compassion.

Remember That You’re in Control

Ultimately, you’re in control of your thoughts and emotions. Remembering that you can choose how you think and feel makes it easier to let go of negative thoughts and embrace positive ones.

Seek Professional Assistance

Lastly, if you’re still struggling to overcome your negative thoughts, consider getting professional help. Our counselors can assist you in changing your thinking patterns and reaching your goals.

Get Help for Addiction Today

If you or someone you love has a problem with drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. More than 21 million people in the United States suffer from substance use disorder. This issue affects people from all walks of life. Fortunately, help is available. Liberty Bay Recovery Center offers detox and inpatient and outpatient programs to help you get sober. We also provide counseling services to help you build the skills and mindset needed to avoid relapse. Contact our caring team today to get started on the path to recovery.

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Experts have identified some specific signs that indicate codependency. Their research shows that addictions and codependency often go hand-in-hand. It may be difficult to determine which came first, but the concerns should be treated concurrently to ensure the best outcome.

At Liberty Bay Recovery, we offer a multimodality treatment program that addresses the underlying causes of codependency and addiction. Contact us at (855) 607-8758 to learn how our evidence-based program can help you and your loved one.

Codependent Relationships and Addiction

Codependent relationships often have one passive partner and one who is dominant. The passive person may struggle to make decisions, and the dominant one gains a sense of control by making the other person’s decisions for them.

When one partner in a relationship has a substance use disorder, codependency is common. This individual with drug problems depends on their partner to accept their excuses, give them another chance, come to their rescue, or ignore the substance use altogether.

In other codependent relationships, one partner may feel compelled to care for the other. When addiction is part of the equation, one person becomes an enabler by providing food, shelter, or money. This arrangement makes it easier for the addicted person to continue their behavior because they have few responsibilities to keep them on track.

Simply put, codependency means two people are dependent on one another to the point that they can’t function independently.

What Are the Signs of Codependency?

Codependency is so common that few people notice that something is unhealthy about their relationship. According to researchers, patterns of codependent behavior can involve the following:

• A tendency to minimize personal needs
• Taking blame to avoid conflict
• A need to earn praise and approval
• The habit of taking charge
• Excessive concern about a loved one’s needs
• Idealizing loved ones or partners
• An overwhelming fear of rejection
• Guilt or anxiety about self-care
• Inability to set boundaries
• People-pleasing behavior
• Excusing abusive behavior
• Fear of being alone

Identifying the subconscious motivations behind codependent relationships is the key to resolving the behavior. It involves learning to look at personal wants, needs, and desires. People must learn to set healthy boundaries between themselves and others that demonstrate what will and will not be tolerated.

Finding Help for Codependency

Rebuilding relationships with friends and family and finding ways to resume activities you once enjoyed can be a great start toward reclaiming independence. Also, learn what you can about relationships and addiction, and encourage your partner to seek treatment.

To change codependent relationships, you need to change the way you live your life, how you relate to others, and how you relate to yourself. Professional guidance can help you accomplish those goals.

Regain Your Sense of Self at Liberty Bay Recovery

At Liberty Bay Recovery, you will find a compassionate team of addiction specialists who can help you regain your sense of self. With our comprehensive approach to treatment, you’ll take part in mental health counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and life skills training, among other therapies and activities.

In our program, you’ll enjoy various activities that will help you learn how to focus on yourself. We provide a weight room, musical instruments, motivational interviewing, yoga, and 12-step sessions. Former clients rave about the amazing recovery community we foster.

Contact us at Liberty Bay Recovery if you recognize any signs of codependency in your relationship. You can reach us at (855) 607-8758 to speak with one of our codependency treatment professionals.

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The Risk Factors for PTSD

Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Most people won’t. Anyone can develop the disorder at any age. However, surviving a shocking or dangerous event is the number-one risk factor.

Some of the most common groups who suffer or are more likely to have PTSD are survivors of accidents or natural disasters, physical or sexual assault survivors, rescue workers, war veterans, and civilian survivors of war.

Some people develop PTSD related to incidents that happen to other people. The unexpected death of a loved one or having a loved one go through a traumatic experience can also cause PTSD. Women are at higher risk than men, and genetics may also play a role.

Other factors that increase your chances of having PTSD include:

• Childhood trauma
• Seeing a dead body or seeing someone else get hurt
• Living through a dangerous event
• Being in a situation where you feel extreme fear and helplessness
• A history of substance use disorder or mental illness
• Having no support after experiencing a traumatic event
• Extra stress, such as the loss of a loved one after the traumatic event

If you realize you are at a higher risk for PTSD, it is especially important to understand the early warning signs. Recognizing PTSD as soon as possible can help prevent symptoms from becoming severe.

Recognizing PTSD Early Warning Signs

A doctor who is experienced in treating mental illness is the best resource for receiving a proper diagnosis. Adults must meet specific criteria that include having at least one symptom from each category per month. The categories of symptoms are:

• Re-Experiencing – Flashbacks, bad dreams, frightening thoughts
• Avoidance – Avoiding places, people, events, or feelings that remind you of the traumatic event
• Arousal and Reactivity – Being easily startled, feeling on edge, quick to anger, changes in sleep habits
• Cognition and Mood – Negative thoughts about yourself, loss of interest in hobbies, feelings of guilt and blame, difficulty remembering the traumatic event correctly

PTSD symptoms can become more severe with time, and new ones can develop if left untreated.

Trauma Therapy: Healing from Trauma that Causes PTSD

Trauma therapy is one tool for addressing PTSD symptoms once they’ve occurred and preemptively stopping the development of PTSD. In most cases, treatment cannot happen until a client is experiencing problems adjusting after a traumatic event.

Unfortunately, many people turn to alcohol or substance use when the early signs of PTSD first appear. They may not understand that what they’re experiencing is a mental health issue they can treat. Instead, they seek to numb their uncomfortable feelings by self-medicating.

Trauma-informed therapy may involve both psychotherapy and medication. Certain medications are effective for relieving PTSD symptoms, and psychotherapy can assist in healing from trauma. Without healing, symptoms will continue and can only be managed.

Trauma-Informed Therapy at Liberty Bay Recovery Center

There is help for PTSD. No matter how traumatic the triggering event was or how long you have been suffering from the symptoms of PTSD, trauma therapy can improve your symptoms. If you recognize the early warning signs of PTSD in yourself or someone you love, call Liberty Bay Recovery Center today at (855) 607-8758 and start healing now.

The post Recognizing PTSD Early appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

Rates of Diagnoses

Since women show fewer external signs of ADHD, many go their entire lives not knowing they have it. The prevalence of ADHD in adult males is nearly two times higher than in adult females diagnosed with the disorder. 

Signs of ADHD in Men

Many of the symptoms of ADHD in men are displayed externally, including:

Acting Out and Hyperactivity

Making impulsive decisions and acting out is one of the more common symptoms that men with ADHD display. This symptom occurs less often or to a lesser degree as they age. This usually occurs in the form of excessive talking or physical engagement, such as pacing or fidgeting with things. 

In extreme cases, this can even include physical aggression. This is more so found in male children than adults and is triggered by frustration. Spitting, hitting, and kicking, are common physically aggressive behaviors that somebody with ADHD may exemplify. It is relevant to note that amphetamines, which are often prescribed to treat ADHD, can actually cause aggression.

Inability to Focus

This is probably the symptom that first comes to mind when somebody thinks about ADHD and persists throughout childhood and into adulthood. Some cases are so severe that it negatively impacts their performance at school or work and negatively impacts their ability to function. If this is the case, a doctor can prescribe medication, usually in the form of a stimulant, that allows the person to focus throughout the day.

Interrupting Others

Another common symptom of those struggling with ADHD is a decrease in their ability to follow social standards. Frequently interrupting somebody in a conversation or inserting oneself into a conversation that does not involve them are common examples of this symptom.

Signs of ADHD in Women

The majority of ADHD symptoms experienced by females are internal. This is why many women go through childhood and adulthood without ever knowing they have it.

Appearing Withdrawn

Women with ADHD may tend to be withdrawn in social settings. Since this behavior is not specific to ADHD, it is usually not a direct indicator of it. Apart from being withdrawn, another symptom in females is that they often appear to be daydreaming or not paying attention when somebody is speaking to them – this is more common in young girls than in women.

Anxiety

In more extreme cases, females may experience an increase in anxiety due to living and dealing with ADHD – this is especially true in untreated cases where missing deadlines and falling behind in work are a common reoccurrence.

Treatment Options for ADHD at Liberty Bay Recovery

While some of the symptoms are shared, ADHD generally affects men and women differently. However, treatment is available for men and women in the following programs:

• Intensive outpatient program
• Partial hospitalization program
• Alcohol addiction treatment
• Synthetic drug addition rehab

At Liberty Bay Recovery Center, we understand how ADHD plays a significant role in a person’s life and success, regardless of their gender. Our experienced mental health professionals have made it easy for you or a loved one to receive the support and guidance you need to learn to manage the symptoms of ADHD and successfully navigate life. Admissions are made seven days per week into our motivating, supportive community environment. Discover your treatment options by calling (855) 607-8758 or by scheduling an appointment using the online form.

The post Does ADHD Impact Men and Women Differently? appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

At Liberty Bay Recovery, we understand the codependent relationship that can exist between users and even loved ones and the detriment that these relationships have on long-term recovery goals. We have developed programs and services to treat those who suffer from substance use disorder and codependency. Find out how to recognize signs of codependency and get on the right track to living the life you want by calling (855) 607-8758.

Recognizing Signs of Codependency

Codependent relationships are not healthy, and one or both parties may further develop low self-esteem and a decreased feeling of self-worth. It is important to recognize the signs of a codependent relationship so you can take the necessary steps in ridding yourself of the one-sided situation or helping a friend or family member who may find themselves in a codependent situation.

Avoiding Conflict

A person in a codependent relationship will do everything they can to avoid upsetting or getting into a conflict with the taker in the relationship. The giver may feel like they have to beat around the bush or walk on eggshells to not disturb or upset the other person.

Constantly Checking In

The giver in a codependent relationship may feel the need to constantly check in with the taker. Along the same lines, the giver may feel unable to do anything without first asking for and receiving permission from the controlling one in the relationship.

Frequent Apologies

Another common sign of codependency is when the giver in the relationship frequently apologizes to the taker even if they did not do anything wrong. This can be seen after conflicts between the two where the giver apologizes to avoid further confrontation.

Doing Things They Would Not Usually Do

If you notice that somebody in an unhealthy relationship is doing things that they would not usually do to please the other person, they may very well be in a codependent relationship. This is another sign that generally takes place as a way for the giver to avoid confrontation.

Feeling Sorry

Feeling pity and sorrow toward the taker in a relationship is another sign of codependency. The giver puts their feelings on hold to please and avoid conflict with the other party. This often results in the giver feeling responsible for helping the other person even if there is no way for them to help.

Learn How to Recognize Signs of Codependency at Liberty Recovery Center

Codependent relationships can happen between two or more people and should be recognized by friends or family. When drugs or alcohol are involved, codependency can exacerbate the problem and even prevent users from receiving the drug treatment they need for the following types of substance use disorder:

• Alcohol addiction treatment
• Prescription drug addiction treatment
• Heroin addiction treatment

At Liberty Bay Recovery Center, our experienced counselors and therapists work with family and loved ones in a family and group program to address codependency issues and start everyone involved on the road to recovery. Find out more about the evidence-based therapy options available at Liberty Bay Recovery Center by calling (855) 607-8758 or using the online form.

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