Finding a job will allow you to build self-esteem and confidence as you acquire your own income and work toward goals like securing your own housing or paying for a vehicle. A job also gives you a sense of purpose every day. Rather than wondering what to do with your time, you have the ability to work hard and feel proud of your efforts and contributions. 

Benefits of Employment in Recovery

Getting out into the workforce is something that can be transformative for a recovering addict. When your life has revolved around substance use for so long, it’s easy to lose touch with all the other things life has to offer. This includes the sense of pride, fulfillment, and confidence you can achieve by going to work each day and being a contributing member of society. 

Jobs provide much-needed structure and stability for individuals in recovery. They give you a reliable schedule that helps you stay consistent with other goals and lifestyle changes as well. For example, because you may have a job that starts at eight in the morning, you are more encouraged to prioritize a nightly routine and get enough sleep. 

Jobs also provide social connections. You can interact with your coworkers and possibly customers each day to experience a sense of connection and belonging. It may sound extreme, but you shouldn’t rush to underestimate how even a casual “How are you?” and short conversation about the weather can impact your mood.  

Another major benefit of a job while in recovery is financial stability. Rather than rely on loved ones or struggle through poverty, you can feel proud for having your own income. A paycheck also opens the door to other essentials like housing, food, clothing, and transportation. 

A job also helps you stay committed to long-term sobriety. When you have something you are a part of, it becomes a source of motivation and inspiration. When cravings strike, you’ll have a strong reason to fight them and avoid relapse. 

Assessing Readiness for Employment 

The first step of career development in recovery is self-assessment. You should be willing to acknowledge when you are or are not ready to work. This is important because individuals who enter the workforce too soon may have a higher risk of relapsing due to stress.  

Once you’ve gained a foothold on your addiction, it becomes easier to manage work stressors, and you’re less likely to be overwhelmed by strong emotions that feel out of your control. 

There are several factors to consider when deciding if you’re ready to find a job during recovery:  

• How long you’ve been sober. The biggest thing to consider is whether you’ve been sober long enough to confidently say you can work without recovery being impacted. Sustained recovery is considered one to five years after quitting. It may take several months or even a year or more before you are ready to work. You could also consider starting a part-time job or contract work before moving into a full-time position.
• Your skills. Sobriety is built on skills. Have you developed the emotional regulation strategies and stress management skills you need to work confidently and comfortably? Do you feel you have the skills to communicate well with others? Do you have self-awareness of your triggers and strategies in place to cope with them? 
• Recovery habits. During your recovery, you should regularly attend meetings and actively work with a support group, therapist, or counselor. They can offer support and be a valuable source of feedback as you navigate your job search.
• A record of success. It’s best for people to wait to re-enter the workforce until they have a proven record of sobriety without relapse. Once you’ve achieved a certain level of stability, then you can consider looking for work. 

It takes time to be ready for employment. Go easy on yourself, and have the courage to admit when you still need to work on some skills before you’re able to work. The time, energy, and honesty you invest in improving yourself and maintaining your sobriety will be worth it. 

Exploring Employment Opportunities 

Navigating the job market in sobriety can feel overwhelming. If you’ve been out of work for quite some time, you may not even be sure where to begin. The first step is writing a resume. Many rehabs help with this as part of their aftercare services; you can also ask your therapist, counselor, or support group members if they would be willing to help. 

There are also amazing free resources online to help you write a resume. Indeed, one of the top job search sites online has a detailed guide on how to write a resume with examples. The guide offers tips for choosing the right resume format so that you can highlight your strengths, skills, and experience appropriately. It also walks you through every part of a resume so that you can confidently write your own.  

If you are worried about entering the workforce with little or no experience, Coursera can help. Coursera is an online education site that offers classes through colleges and universities around the world. Their no-experience resume guide can help you identify a new job, even if you’ve never worked in an industry before. 

You have plenty of options for exploring employment opportunities, including using online job boards such as Indeed and Glassdoor, networking with people you know or on LinkedIn, using a staffing agency, or attending a vocational training program. 

Choosing the Right Industry 

To help you succeed, make sure you explore your career options before applying. This can help you avoid submitting job applications to positions that do not align with your career jobs.  

Ask yourself what type of job you would like. Do you enjoy interacting with people, or do you want a job that is more self-directed? Are you comfortable sitting in an office setting for most of the day, or would you prefer to work in a more fast-paced, energetic environment? Do you have any interests that could guide you toward a career, such as cars or beauty?  

Remind yourself that the first job you get during recovery does not have to be your forever career. Accepting a position as you develop skills and career goals, expand your education, or earn certifications is okay. What matters most is finding roles that allow you to earn an income, build self-confidence, gain experience, and grow as a person through recovery. 

Building a Strong Resume and Cover Letter 

Your resume outlines your work experience, education, skills, and objectives as a job candidate. Don’t worry if you do not have an extensive work history or any relevant experience. There are many entry-level positions you can apply for with the right resume. 

Building a strong resume requires: 

• A clear objective statement that describes who you are and what you want to achieve. Frame this through the lens of how you can apply your skills and strengths to improve a business’s operations.
• A list of relevant skills you have to offer. You should have a combination of technical skills that relate to a job and soft skills that everyone needs to succeed, such as teamwork and good communication. 
• Any accomplishments you may have, such as being on the honor roll in school, achieving a certificate, or past achievements in previous jobs. 
• Your work history and a short description or bulleted list of what your roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments were at each position. 

As a general rule, you do not need to include any work history beyond the last 10 years. You should also not list your high school if you have a college degree, but you can include it if you have completed your diploma, earned a GED, and/or are currently attending a community college or vocational school. 

Writing a Cover Letter 

A cover letter should only be one page long. In it, you want to express your personal interest in the role and why you feel you would be a good candidate. To end the letter, you can say something like, “I am excited about the opportunity to discuss this position further.” Thank the reader for their time, and sign with your name. 

It’s ideal to write a fresh cover letter for every job you apply for. If you use a template, make sure to personalize it by highlighting the company’s values and how they align with your own. Tie your own skills and strengths to the responsibilities of the position you’re applying for.  

Navigating the Job Search Process 

Finding a job in recovery is typically done online. You visit online job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, Monster, and ZipRecruiter, search for job listings in your area and industry, and then apply for them one by one. 

Be sure to examine job listings online carefully. Avoid providing personal details such as your Social Security Number or ID, as these are not necessary to apply for a position.  

Once you apply for jobs, you will wait to hear back from companies. They will either request a job interview or let you know they have decided to move forward with other candidates. This is a normal part of the job search process, so don’t let it discourage you when the first rejections roll in. Keep applying, and be persistent. Every denial you get is an opportunity to apply for another position. 

Aim to apply for at least five jobs each day. If you can do more, great! Just focus on applying to jobs that you genuinely feel you can do and would be a good fit for. It isn’t a valuable use of your time to apply for jobs you are uncertain about, especially since receiving more rejections can negatively harm your self-esteem. 

Instead, focus on your own skills, know your strengths, and remember your worth. Network online, build connections, and keep trying until you land a position. 

You can also look for jobs in person. If you are open to working in hospitality, retail, or food service, consider entering local establishments with a copy of your resume and leaving it with management. They may also request you fill out an online application. 

Interview Preparation and Success 

Think of a job interview as a conversation. You are going to discuss your skills, strengths, and goals with a hiring manager to determine if a job is the right fit for you at this time.  

Some jobs have multiple interviews where you meet with management and team members. This can be nerve-wracking, but remember, if you show up as yourself and are authentic, honest, and professional, you can’t go wrong. Even if you don’t get a job you interview for, you can feel confident knowing you did your best. 

Be sure to show up at an interview with curiosity, enthusiasm and a go-getter attitude. You are not required to disclose your sobriety status to anyone, but drug testing may be required in many jobs.  

If the topic of your addiction and recovery arises, address it with honesty and enthusiasm. You have nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, your commitment to getting sober and overcoming addiction are strengths that can further prove you are a dedicated, hardworking person who has the strength and willpower to overcome challenges with positivity.  

Maintaining Sobriety in the Workplace 

It is important to remind yourself that you are always in recovery. This means avoiding triggers and not making exceptions to boundaries you’ve put in place to protect your sobriety.  

Practice self-care by taking short breaks throughout the day. Practice mindfulness, and when you need help, seek assistance. This could be talking to your therapist, support group, or, if necessary, your supervisor. 

While you aren’t required to tell anyone about your recovery or history, it may be helpful in some cases. For example, if you need to schedule accommodations to attend group therapy or an IOP program, it might be helpful to let your employer know why you must work different hours.  

Remember that addiction is your story, and you aren’t forced to talk about it with anyone if you aren’t ready or don’t want to. Many people want to enjoy a fresh start in their new jobs without bringing up substance use, and that is perfectly fine. Disclose things about yourself as needed, on your own time, and only offer as much detail as necessary. There is no need to reveal your personal history in-depth to the people you work with. 

Empowering Recovery Through Employment 

Everyone needs a sense of purpose. A job provides structure and meaning for people in recovery. With the right skills and patience, you can set career goals and begin working toward a bright future that gives you the stability you need to stay sober and enjoy life. If you need help taking the next steps toward recovery from substance abuse, we can help at Liberty Bay Recovery Center with inpatient and outpatient programs. 

The post Empowering Recovery Through Employment appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

Hallucinogens are drugs that change an individual’s perception of their environment, thoughts, and emotions. They are frequently divided into dissociative drugs, such as PCP, and classic hallucinogens, such as LSD. Hallucinogens, sometimes called psychedelic substances, can cause people to perceive things that aren’t real. As a result, they can impair a person’s ability to think logically and occasionally lead to strange and risky behavior.

Some hallucinogens are artificial, while others occur naturally in plants or mushrooms. In ancient times, individuals used hallucinogens in rituals for healing or religious purposes. More recently, people started using these drugs for social or recreational activities. Today people may use them to relieve stress, experience spirituality, feel different, or get high. Hallucinogen-related substance use disorders (SUDs) are less prevalent that involve drugs like opioids.

Hallucinogens: How Do They Work?

Classic hallucinogens change perception by interacting with the neurotransmitter serotonin’s brain circuits. In addition, these substances interfere with the prefrontal cortex, which controls mood, cognition, and perception. Hallucinogens also affect other areas that control arousal and physiological reactions to stress and panic.

How Pervasive Is Abuse of Hallucinogens and Dissociative Substances?

It appears that more Americans than ever are using hallucinogenic drugs. It is estimated that more than 5.5 million Americans aged 18 and older and over 3 million adults 26 and older use hallucinogens.

In a study published in 2022 in the journal “Addiction,” researchers determined that from 2002 to 2019, the number of Americans using hallucinogens has climbed among adults but declined among teenagers. For example, the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that 7.3% of adults aged 18-25 reported using hallucinogens in the previous 12 months.

The market for psychedelic drugs in the United States was estimated to be worth $4.29 billion in 2021, and it’s anticipated to

Short-Term Effects of Hallucinogens

When using hallucinogenic substances, people may experience feelings, noises, and sights that don’t exist yet seem real to them. Some hallucinogenic drugs act quickly, while others take a few hours. The effects can persist for up to 12 hours and usually start 20 to 90 minutes after consumption. Also, the higher the dose of hallucinogenic substances consumed, the more it can affect the user’s personality, attitude, and environment.

Short-term effects of hallucinogens can cause users to have temporarily distorted senses: Seeing, hearing, touching, or smelling can be abnormal. Users can also have intense emotions and perceive time as passing more slowly.

Other short-term effects can include:

• Restless and dizziness
• Impulsivity and quick emotional changes
• Accelerated heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure
• Dry mouth, lack of appetite, and sweating
• Tremors, numbness, and weakness

Long-Term Effects of Hallucinogens

When users abuse hallucinogens over a long period, tolerance can develop. According to studies, some users may quickly build a tolerance to the potent hallucinogen LSD. As a result, users may need to take progressively higher doses of the drug to get the same results. According to research, a user who becomes tolerant of one drug belonging to the hallucinogen class could also become tolerant of other substances in the same category. For instance, someone with a tolerance to LSD could be tolerant of psilocybin and mescaline. Yet, substances like amphetamines and marijuana that influence different neurotransmitter systems are not affected by tolerance to hallucinogens.

Classic hallucinogens have been linked to two long-term adverse effects: persistent psychosis and hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD), sometimes known as “flashbacks.” Although each illness is uncommon, it occurs unexpectedly, it can happen more than is believed, and the two disorders can co-occur. Although the precise origins are unknown, these diseases occur more in individuals with a history of psychiatric issues. However, they can affect anyone who has used a hallucinogen even once.

Long-term effects of persistent psychosis can include:

• Abnormal vision
• Confused cognition
• Paranoia
• Mood swings

The long-term effects of hallucinogen persisting perception disorder include hallucinations, visual problems like seeing halos or paths connected to moving objects and symptoms that might be misinterpreted for neurological illnesses like a stroke or brain tumor.

Classic Hallucinogens

DMT (N, N-dimethyltryptamine)

Hallucinogenic tryptamine naturally exists in various plants and animals. Because of its potent psychedelic effects, some call it the “spirit molecule.” However, the drug is not approved for medical use and has a significant potential for misuse. It also has no medicinal purpose acknowledged or authorized by the federal government.

LSD (D-lysergic acid diethylamide)

A powerful synthetic substance that causes hallucinations. It is derived from ergot alkaloids. LSD leads to severe abnormal behavior, perhaps because of its capacity to block serotonin’s activity. However, the drug’s precise mechanisms are not known. As recently as the 1960s, LSD was used experimentally in medicine, and some modern researchers hope to use it for therapeutic purposes again.

Psilocybin (4-phosphoryl oxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine)

Chemicals derived from specific dried or fresh varieties of hallucinogenic mushrooms found in Mexico, South America, and the southern and northwestern United States. As an indole-alkylamine, psilocybin is categorized as tryptamine. These chemicals are misused for their hallucinogenic and euphoric properties. They induce a “trip” effect and have a structure comparable to that of LSD. The impact on the central nervous system’s serotonin (5-HT) receptors likely causes hallucinogenic effects. The chemicals psilocybin or psilocin are found in approximately 180 mushrooms.

Peyote (mescaline)

A small, spineless cactus. The hallucinogen mescaline is its main ingredient. Since recorded history, peyote has been a cornerstone of Indigenous peoples’ sacred rituals in northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. Peyote and mescaline abuse can lead to hallucinations, a changed sense of space and time, altered body image, and illusions to varying degrees. Additionally, users may feel a sense of euphoria, occasionally followed by anxiety.

251-NBOMe

Often used as an alternative to LSD or mescaline. NBOMe, often known as “n-bomb” or “smiles,” is a potent synthetic hallucinogen. This drug comes in various forms, but 25I-NBOMe, sometimes known as “25I,” is the most popular. Even a tiny dose of the drug might have effects that last up to 12 hours or more. At low doses, NBOMe has a psychedelic effect comparable to LSD. However, users claim that the drug’s side effects and after-results are worse than those of LSD. 25I-NBOMe’s effects also resemble those of methamphetamine. The size of six little grains of common table salt corresponds to a dosage of 750 micrograms, regarded as a moderate to high dose.

How Do Dissociative Drugs Work?

According to research, dissociative drugs like PCP, ketamine, and DXM impair the brain’s neurotransmitter glutamate functions at certain N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. These receptors are found throughout the brain nerve cells. Glutamate is a crucial component of cognitive functions, including learning and memory, emotion, and pain perception. Additionally, the neurotransmitter dopamine is affected by PCP.

Short-Term Effects of Dissociative Drugs

Dissociative drugs can cause users to experience floating sensations; visual and auditory abnormalities; dissociation, or feeling alienated from reality. Other side effects of dissociative drug use are anxiety, memory loss, and poor motor function, including bodily tremors and numbness. These unexpected side effects depend on the drug’s dosage, which often takes effect minutes after consumption and persists for several hours. Some users claim to have side effects for days.

Low doses of dissociative drugs can cause hallucinations as well as:

• Numbness
• Nausea, vertigo, and vomiting
• Sensory perceptions, including changes in the user’s perception of sight, sound, form, time, and body image
• Detachment from self and surroundings

High doses of dissociative drugs can cause:

• Memory loss
• Severe panic, fear, worry, paranoia, vulnerability, inflated strength, and aggressiveness
• Harmful fluctuations in body temperature, respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure

Long-Term Effects of Dissociative Drugs

Although the long-term use of most dissociative drugs has not been thoroughly studied, research indicates that repeated PCP use can result in tolerance. Also, users can experience withdrawal symptoms, including yearning for the drug, headaches, and profuse sweating when drug use is suddenly stopped. Other side effects of chronic PCP use, which may last for a year or longer after use ceases, include:

• Enduring speech problems
• Memory loss
• Sadness
• Suicidal thoughts
• Anxiety
• Social disengagement

Common Dissociative Drugs

Ketamine

A dissociative anesthetic used in both human and veterinary medicine. Ketamine is a drug that can be used as an injectable liquid and is commonly known as special K, super K, and vitamin K, among other nicknames. When used illegally, ketamine can be ingested or evaporated to create a powder that users can snort. Unfortunately, users can place ketamine in beverages without being noticed because it has no flavor or smell. Ketamine can induce hallucinations, amnesia, and dream-like experiences. The sensations experienced by drug users range from a floating sensation to feeling detached from their bodies.

Dextromethorphan (DXM)

Over-the-counter (OTC) cough suppressants commonly used in cold treatments. Unfortunately, teenagers and adults sometimes misuse DXM in excessive doses to induce euphoria and auditory and visual hallucinations. Robo-tripping or “skittling” are slang terms used to refer to illicit DXM consumption. These words are taken from two of the most frequently abused remedies: Coricidin and Robitussin. Abusers of DXM claim to have increased perceptual awareness, distorted temporal perception, and visual hallucinations.

PCP (Phencyclidine)

A common illicit hallucinogenic street drug. It is a white powder that can be dissolved in alcohol or water. You can get PCP as a powder or liquid. PCP is a drug that affects your brain and mood, conduct, and perspective on the world around you by acting on your central nervous system. Scientists believe that PCP prevents specific brain chemicals from functioning normally.

Salvia (Salvia Divinorum)

An herb from the mint family and is used frequently for its hallucinogenic properties. It originates in southern Mexico and other regions of Central and South America. The Mazatec tribe has long used it in ceremonial rituals. Salvinorin A, the main hallucinogenic component of salvia, has made it one of nature’s most potent drugs. This drug has several side effects, including hallucinations, vertigo, and visual abnormalities. Salvia, Sally-D, and Maria Pastora are some of its street names.

Dangers of Hallucinogen Use

Intoxication from hallucinogens might result in accidents, strange or unsafe conduct, or suicidal thoughts; abuse or misuse can be detrimental with any drug or medication. Overdoses of classic hallucinogens like LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline are uncommon. However, dissociative substances like phencyclidine (PCP) or ketamine have a higher overdose risk. Additionally, high doses can cause other bodily harm. For example, using DXM in substantial amounts to produce hallucinogenic effects can harm the cardiovascular and neurological systems.

Treatment for Hallucinogen Use Disorder

Although there are no drugs with FDA approval for treating hallucinogen misuse, multiple forms of therapy are accessible. The most popular treatment is behavioral therapy, which has excellent potential for treating drug use disorders.

Additional methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational enhancement, can help increase drug users’ motivation for sobriety. It can also improve their coping and communication skills, hone their problem-solving abilities, and increase their capacity to function in different spheres of their life while reducing the likelihood of relapse.

Hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPPD), in which flashbacks may occur spontaneously, has no known treatment. To treat psychoses, a medical specialist can administer several antidepressant and antipsychotic medications. Another excellent treatment option is psychotherapy, which may assist patients in overcoming any anxiety or bewilderment they may be experiencing because of visual disturbances or long-term side effects of LSD use.

Liberty Bay Recovery Center

Liberty Bay Recovery Center in Portland, Maine, is a top drug and alcohol detox facility. We provide safe and supportive medical detox services. Our professionals have years of experience helping people detox from alcohol and drugs. We know that the fear of the withdrawal process is one of the main barriers to recovery because we have recovering addicts on our staff.

Many drug and alcohol abusers won’t stop using even if they’re ready to stop because they want to avoid the severe side effects of the withdrawal process. Some individuals even attempt to recover from addictions at home, going through days of misery and harsh withdrawal before giving in and returning to drug use. Our team is compassionate and understands what it takes to be on the road to recovery. Trust us to guide you to your best quality of life.

The post What are Hallucinogens? appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

When Does Your Drinking Become an Issue?

For moderate drinkers, one or two drinks a day will suffice (a drink refers to 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of spirits). Moreover, they rarely exceed their limits even if they attend a party where drinks are freely available. This is not the case with an addict, who would want to drink until the alcohol supply is depleted or until they are thrown out of the party.

The problem with alcohol is that you can start drinking moderately but eventually progress to becoming an alcoholic. When you become an alcoholic, your life will revolve around drinking. You are said to have alcohol dependence at that stage and will start abusing alcohol.

Alcohol abuse is an uncontrollable drinking pattern resulting in adverse and recurrent consequences. As an added risk, you may fail to honor your school, family, or work obligations. Eventually, you may start having alcohol-related conflicts and legal problems like drunk driving, theft, or involving yourself in unnecessary fights. Your relationships may also break down, and you may end up in jail.

Alcohol dependence means you have lost control of your drinking. Alcohol addiction means you cannot stop drinking when drinks are still available. You may try stopping, but you find yourself slipping back. Worse still, you may struggle to talk, walk, or eat without a drink. In addition, you will become shaky and sweaty in the morning before drinking and, in some cases, may suffer from hallucinations and delirium tremens (DTs) when you try to withdraw from drinking.

Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol

If you are an alcoholic, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is one of the best ways to solve your problem and break your drinking patterns. Medication-assisted treatment uses a combination of physical therapy and medications. It is a safe and effective way to help you stop drinking and start working to improve your health.

The medications used to treat SUD will affect your brain and restore the chemicals disrupted by alcohol. MAT will clear your body of all alcohol-related chemicals and help you achieve sobriety. The program can also help you maintain recovery and prevent future risks like overuse of alcohol or even death. MAT can not only help alcohol abusers but also treat disorders resulting from nicotine or opioid use.

The main aim of MAT is to limit cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms related to alcohol. Withdrawal symptoms are the main reasons that people relapse. So, by addressing them through MAT, you will regain your control over alcohol and eventually stop drinking. As a result, your cravings will decrease, and you will finally live an alcohol-free life.

MAT does not mean substituting alcohol with another drug. The treatment only corrects your body’s chemical imbalances to restore it to a healthy state. A qualified medical practitioner must oversee the treatment so you do not become addicted to the drugs. MAT heavily relies on medications combined with professional therapy sessions. With both behavioral therapies and counseling, medication-assisted treatment will address your well-being and health.

As you continue drinking, you will develop an alcohol tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effect. Moreover, the more dependent you are on alcohol, your withdrawal symptoms will be more severe. These symptoms may include convulsions, hallucinations, tremors, irritability, restlessness, sweating, and nausea.

Although excessive alcohol consumption gets public attention and concern, even moderate or mild alcohol-related problems can cause severe damage to an individual’s life, community, and immediate family.

Data from the NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism) shows that 6.2% of U.S. adults aged 18 and older have an alcohol use disorder. This is a considerable number by all standards. For instance, in one governmental survey, it was found that 20% of U.S. citizens aged between 12 and 20 years are users of alcohol, about 40% of young adults aged between 18 and 25 years are binge drinkers, and about 10% are heavy drinkers.

What Medicines Are Used in Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol?

Seeking medical intervention for alcohol addiction is crucial because quitting without medical help can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures and delirium tremens. Without medication-assisted treatment, some symptoms can be fatal. MAT will ease these symptoms so you can stop drinking safely.

Withdrawal from alcohol use is life-threatening, anxiety-ridden, and excruciating. Therefore, the withdrawal process must be gradual and supervised by an experienced doctor. The FDA approves four medications for the treatment of alcoholism. It is worth mentioning that these medications do not treat alcoholism instantly but will help you gradually withdraw until you recover.

Benzodiazepines (Librium and Valium)

Librium (chlordiazepoxide), Valium (diazepam), and other long-acting benzodiazepines are used to detox alcohol addicts since these medications act on the same brain receptors as alcohol. These drugs can be prescribed immediately if the doctor realizes you are in danger of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

The doctor will taper them off gradually as your condition improves and you leave the dangerous stage. This can take about five days from the time you had your last drink. However, the time taken to escape the danger zone varies from person to person. People may stay longer on benzodiazepines, whereas others can be switched to other FDA-approved alternatives.

Naltrexone (Revia and Vivitrol)

Naltrexone is a popular drug for opioid addicts but is also effective for alcohol abusers. The drug blocks the brain’s opioid receptors, thus decreasing drug cravings and preventing the person from getting high when they use alcohol or opioids. Initially, this drug was only used to treat opioid addicts, but it was later discovered that naltrexone could also be used to treat alcoholics.

To date, many doctors do not understand the mechanism of its action, but they believe the brain responds to opioids the same way it responds to alcohol. This means naltrexone can suppress the pleasurable and euphoric effects that alcohol brings.

If you are on naltrexone, you will not feel high even if you drink alcohol. Naltrexone does not eliminate withdrawal symptoms, meaning you must undergo detox before naltrexone is administered. The doctor will determine the stage where you will be fit enough to start using naltrexone.

Acamprosate (Campral)

Acamprosate reduces alcohol-related cravings and alleviates withdrawal symptoms. Doctors in the U.S. like to prescribe it for the treatment of alcoholism. This drug will reduce the dependence of your brain on alcohol and restore your brain’s functionality and chemistry. Acamprosate interacts with brain neurotransmitters to help normalize and modulate the brain’s activity, which excessive alcohol consumption has thrown into disarray.

Immediately after you stop consuming alcohol, your brain will start functioning differently, triggering withdrawal symptoms in your body. This is the process that acamprosate will control so that you can get relief. This drug is usually administered after detoxification. It is commonly prescribed alongside other medications like disulfiram and naltrexone.

Disulfiram

Disulfiram is another popular medication for the treatment of alcohol dependence. When you use this drug, you will have a strong, unpleasant hangover-like experience when you drink alcohol. The undesirable effects include sweating, weakness, chest pain, vomiting, nausea, headache, and facial flushing.

These symptoms will begin after 10 minutes of consuming alcohol and can last up to 60 minutes. Disulfiram is not meant to treat SUD but to deter you from drinking. That is why it is a good option for you when you still have alcohol cravings.

Causes of Alcohol Use Disorders

Alcoholism has many causes, with social, psychological, physiological, and genetic factors playing the most significant roles. These factors affect people differently. For example, certain alcoholics’ disorders are caused by psychological factors like low self-esteem and impulsiveness. For some drinkers, alcohol provides them with a way to cope with emotional problems.

Still, a group of people drinks because of environmental and social factors like the need to fit in (peer pressure) and the ease of access to alcohol. For example, people who grow up in areas where alcohol is readily available are likely to start drinking at a tender age. Other causes of alcohol use disorders are sexual abuse, physical abuse, and poverty.

Genetic factors have also been found to make some people highly likely to become alcoholics, although this happens only to a small percentage. For example, some children born to alcoholic parents may lead alcohol-free lives, and those born to sober parents can become alcoholics.

Once you start drinking excessively, the problem will perpetuate itself. Excess alcohol will cause changes in your body that make you feel comfortable only after drinking. As a result, you may sometimes find yourself drinking to avoid suffering from alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

How Will Substance Use Disorders Affect You?

Some research has found that using alcohol in small quantities has some health benefits, like positive cardiovascular effects. On the other hand, excessive drinking has been found to have adverse health effects. Heavy alcohol consumption has both short-term and long-term effects.

The short-term effects include blackouts, hangovers, and memory loss. On the other hand, heavy alcohol consumption’s long-term effects may include liver cirrhosis, severe cognitive impairment, brain damage, cancer, heart problems, and stomach ailments.

Alcoholism also increases an individual’s chances of committing suicide or dying from homicide, accidents, and fights. Interestingly, men are more likely to develop alcoholism than women, but women suffer more from alcoholism than men.

Alcohol has been found to negatively affect mental health because it acts directly on the brain. Alcoholism and alcohol abuse can worsen anxiety and depression and create these conditions if they never existed.

Often alcoholics do not only hurt themselves. You will also hurt your children and spouse. You can expose them to family violence, deprivation of a good life, and, in the worst-case scenario, physical or sexual abuse. In addition, when your children see you in your drunken state, they can develop serious psychological problems.

Children who cannot face you when drunk may attempt to run away from home. Then there is the problem of stealing. Most broke alcoholics still sell household items to get money for a bottle or two. This can plunge your family into poverty. Alcohol also leads to job loss, which can hurt all your dependents. Furthermore, drinking while pregnant can damage your fetus. You may also cause the same family problems caused by men.

When Should You Seek Help?

The problem with alcoholism is that it develops gradually, so it is a big challenge to know when to seek help. Another problem is that most alcoholics live in denial. They cannot believe they are alcoholics. Most alcoholics only seek help when they have hit rock bottom.

The first step in seeking help is acknowledging your drinking problem. There are many questions you can ask to gauge your condition. You can be on the lookout for the effects discussed above to indicate whether you have slipped into alcoholism.

For instance, do you find it easy to stop drinking? Have you ever sworn you would never drink again, only to find yourself drunk the next day? Have you missed classes or work because of alcohol? Have you begged for alcohol? Do you have an alcohol-related medical condition?

Such questions can help guide you in deciding to start seeking help. But please do not wait until it is too late. Alcohol addiction can be fatal. Instead, consider visiting a professional rehabilitation facility such as Liberty Bay Recovery Center for medication-assisted treatment.

Do You Need Other Treatments With Medication-Assisted Treatment?

MAT is a comprehensive treatment option that combines different therapies and medications. However, you can combine it with other treatment options, which your doctor should approve. For example, you can take other drugs for other mental health problems like anxiety and depression. You can also join support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

The post Medication-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

The Role Food Plays in Our Health

Food plays a significant role in our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Think of your body as a high-performance engine; using substandard fuel in a luxury vehicle would inevitably result in engine malfunctions and breakdowns. Likewise, when given substandard building blocks to work with, your body responds by creating mental and physical dysfunction that may make overcoming addictions and unhealthy habits more difficult.

Nutrition plays a vital role in recovery from drug and alcohol use. Essential vitamins, minerals, and enzymes in nutritious foods can reduce withdrawal symptoms and give your body what it needs to heal. So why is nutrition important to recovery, and what should you eat as you embark on your healing journey? Read on to discover why it all matters.

Malnutrition Caused by Substance Abuse

Any form of substance abuse can cause malnutrition. People in the throes of addiction care less about how they are fueling their bodies than about getting the next fix. A person may skip meals or forget to eat due to a preoccupation with their addiction. Over time, this failure to fuel results in a loss of critical nutritional building blocks that will eventually show as signs of malnutrition. Classic signs of malnutrition include:

• Reduced Appetite
• Weakness
• Chills
• Poor Cognitive Memory
• Slow Wound Healing
• Weakened Immunity

The recovery process does little to erase the effects of malnutrition. On the contrary, detoxing can make things temporarily worse for people experiencing exaggerated withdrawal symptoms that make it difficult to continue.

The Struggle to Rewire the Brain

Substance abuse takes over the mind, with substances triggering the brain’s reward center. As someone uses their chosen substance, the reward center is flooded with “feel good” chemicals, repeatedly causing one to seek out that same feeling.

With every subsequent high, the need for more substance to feel the same effect grows greater, and this is where the roots of addiction take hold in the brain. Since the human body is so adaptable to stimuli, the brain requires more significant amounts of the substance to create the same amount of “feel good” substances that keep a person coming back for more.

Feeding the Brain During Recovery

Unhealthy foods also stimulate parts of the brain, releasing chemicals that temporarily help us feel good. Processed foods high in preservatives, sugar, and fat contribute to the same type of brain chemistry in people struggling with addiction. Feeding the brain the right food during recovery is essential to success and long-term health. Changing your diet by incorporating healthy foods that promote healing will significantly and positively impact recovery.

Foods to Eat During Detox

Recovery is a whole-body endeavor; making deliberate and positive diet and lifestyle changes makes it easier for the mind and body to heal. When the body is nourished with adequate vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, cravings for unhealthy foods and patterns are significantly reduced. The body embarks on its natural healing process, provided you continue properly nourishing it. Below we identify some of the best foods to incorporate into your diet for optimal health and healing.

Fresh or Frozen Berries

Fresh or frozen berries enhance any snack with a boost of healthy, natural sugar to help you fight unhealthy cravings. In addition, berries are rich in vitamins C, A, and B and antioxidants that promote cellular health and renewal—snack on delicious berries alone or in combination with yogurt or nuts for a satisfying snack.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are an essential part of any healthy diet. The body craves fiber-rich foods, and fiber helps to eliminate toxins and harmful free radicals that can damage organs and tissues as they circulate. Foods rich in whole grains also help to facilitate a slower release of sugars, keeping blood sugar levels stable and helping to prevent mood swings and irritability, which are common during detox.

Garden Greens

Garden fresh greens are among the most nutritious foods consumed on this planet. Greens are excellent for adding a boost of vitamin B and binding to heavy metals and toxins to flush them out of the body. Greens also provide you with antioxidant protection as your body continues to heal. In addition, they support optimal brain function during recovery. Look for leafy greens such as spinach, arugula, chard, and kale to incorporate into meals to reduce cravings for unhealthy food and drink.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper helps to regulate the metabolism and fight cravings for unhealthy foods. It can also help to reduce flu-like symptoms and nausea, which are common in the initial stages of detoxification. Adding a pinch into a cup of tea or favorite foods can boost immunity, easing detoxification symptoms.

Nuts and Seeds

Dopamine is one of those “feel-good chemicals” that is present and circulating in a healthy brain. Unfortunately, brains subjected to unhealthy patterns of addiction are severely depleted in dopamine, so finding foods that naturally raise and release this chemical back into the brain will improve the detoxification experience. For example, nuts and seeds naturally raise dopamine levels, which can help reduce cravings for alcohol and other substances that produce the same feeling. Nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts, and flax seeds are also excellent sources of fiber and antioxidants that help naturally balance dopamine levels in the brain.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel are excellent sources of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to mood and brain health. In addition, these fish are incredibly high in protein, which helps you to recover from the adverse effects of alcohol and drugs on the body and brain. Consuming quality protein is also an excellent way to trigger that satiated feeling, making it easier to resist the temptation of unhealthy foods and other substances.

Foods High in Zinc

Zinc is a powerhouse mineral, providing excellent healing capabilities for the body and mind. Foods high in zinc include:

• Fresh Seafood
• Red Meat
• Vegetables
• Legumes
• Nuts and Seeds
• Fruit
• Whole Grains
• Full-Fat Dairy

Choosing foods from this list will boost immunity, promote cellular health and renewal, and give you the building blocks needed for proper nutritional recovery.

Bananas

Bananas help to raise dopamine levels in the brain and fight off cravings for processed sugar and sweets. High in potassium, bananas aid in protecting the heart and cardiovascular system from oxidative stress and damage. Even one banana a day is said to significantly reduce the effects of substance abuse on the heart and promote natural healing.

Whole Wheat Bread

Making the switch from white to whole wheat bread has many health benefits. Whole wheat contains a great deal of fiber and magnesium, which can improve gut health. Magnesium has also been shown to protect muscle and nervous system health, two systems that will be called upon to perform as you go through detox and withdrawal.

Iron-Rich Foods

Iron is a critical mineral that our bodies need but cannot produce. Essential to red blood cell production, this element carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It also aids in improving neurological functioning, balancing hormones, and boosting energy. Foods that are rich in iron include:

• Beef
• Dark Poultry Meat
• Shellfish
• Liver
• Tuna
• Eggs
• Spinach
• Swiss Chard
• Beetroot
• Tofu
• Soy Products

Just a few servings of iron-rich foods weekly will boost energy, safeguard immunity, and increase oxygen levels in the body, contributing to better overall health.

Water

Water is a life force of energy for your body. It facilitates thousands of cellular operations, keeps blood flowing smoothly, and helps to eliminate toxins efficiently from all organs and systems. Without it, you feel sluggish, tired, and sick. Staying hydrated during and after detox gives you an advantage over those who don’t prioritize proper water intake. Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces daily and more if you are in the throes of uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Detoxing with adequate amounts of water in your system will reduce the time you have to go through these symptoms, and you’ll feel better sooner.

You Are a Top Priority

Focus on self-care and better health as you seek to break free from habits and patterns that no longer serve you. Making yourself a top priority will help you achieve a better quality of life. Liberty Bay Recovery Center has a team of addiction specialists and medical professionals ready to serve you and provide you with what you need to get and stay sober. We offer inpatient and outpatient programs, therapeutic services, and medically supervised detox to support your recovery journey. You deserve to create the life that you’ve always wanted, which you can do now with your health and wellness as a top priority. Contact us today to get started on a better path to health and healing.

The post Best Foods for Detox and Recovery appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

There is also a category of illicit stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine, usually taken orally, through injection, or snorting. Stimulant misuse can lead to addiction, inflicting psychological distress on the body. You will require intensive therapy and treatment to overcome stimulant addiction. Start your treatment earlier to increase the chances of long-term recovery. Learning how the drug affects your body and the available treatment options is the first step toward freedom from addiction. Here’s some more information to get you started.

What Is Stimulant Abuse?

Stimulant addiction can begin as a form of experimental drug use. Others develop dependence after prolonged exposure to prescription medication. When taken as prescribed, prescription stimulants are safe and effective. Doctors prescribe them at lower doses and increase the amount gradually while monitoring the patient.

Abusing stimulants increases the risk of developing an addiction. This includes taking higher doses at frequent intervals than recommended or taking someone else’s medicine. Another form of stimulant abuse is crushing the pill or opening the capsule to snort the powder. Some people dissolve the powder in water and inject it into a vein. Stimulant abuse also includes obtaining drugs illegally to create pleasurable effects.

Drug abuse begins in many ways for various people. Some people start taking drugs to fill an emotional void, especially after losing a loved one or due to relationship problems. Others take stimulants to feel high. Teens may abuse stimulants for better concentration due to academic pressure. Others use drugs to boost their confidence and self-esteem or to fit in. Stimulants affect everyone differently depending on the type of drug used, quantity, length of use, method of use, the person’s weight, size, and health condition. In general, a higher dose of a stimulant can lead to:

• Irregular Heart Rate
• Increased Breathing
• Increased Blood Pressure
• Increased Blood Sugar

A user may develop tolerance after continued stimulant misuse. In this state, you must use higher doses to get the desired effects. This increases the risk of an overdose. Deaths involving stimulants have risen in recent years, primarily due to cocaine and methamphetamine overdose. Mixing stimulants with other drugs like opioids increases the risk of an overdose. These substances mask each other’s effects which may encourage the user to take higher doses. Some common signs of stimulants overdose include:

• Difficult Breathing
• Abdominal Cramps
• Paranoia
• Excessive Sweating
• High Body Temperature
• Convulsions

When someone overdoses on stimulants, they may also experience heart attacks and stroke, so call emergency medical services as soon as possible. Seeking treatment once you realize you have a stimulant dependency can also help prevent the risk of overdose.

Warning Signs of Stimulant Addiction

Stimulants work by increasing neurotransmitters’ norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine reinforces pleasurable behaviors in the brain’s reward circuitry. On the other hand, norepinephrine causes physical effects like changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. In general, stimulants result in decreased fatigue and improved concentration.

Repeat use of high stimulant doses changes how the brain perceives pleasure. When functioning normally, the reward system motivates people to repeat healthy behaviors like eating or spending time with family. But a surge in dopamine in the reward system may lead to behaviors like drug misuse. Over time, you lose control over the drug and will need to take the substance for your body to function normally. If your loved ones exhibit most of the signs below, they could suffer from stimulant addiction.

• Taking higher doses of prescription stimulants
• Unexplained change of character
• Neglecting family, work, or school responsibilities
• Getting into legal trouble
• Forging prescriptions
• Requesting early refills
• Frequent dilated pupils
• Sleeping and eating less than usual
• Appearing unusually energetic
• Sudden change in hobbies
• Isolation from friends and family
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Unexplained money problems

While some people may associate drug addiction with a lack of morals, this complex disease can affect anyone. Parental influence and a person’s environment can also expose someone to substance use. Factors that can increase the risk of stimulants abuse include:

• A family history of drug abuse
• Low self-esteem
• Participation in competitive sports
• Family history of mental health illnesses
• Easy access to stimulants
• Expose to trauma
• Stressful working conditions
• Peer pressure

Staging an Addiction Intervention

Unfortunately, only a small number of people suffering from substance use disorder receive the required treatment. Some are afraid of the lifestyle change that comes with recovery. There is also too much stigma surrounding addiction which can deter people from seeking help. Others aren’t ready to stop taking the drug and are afraid that coming out with their addiction problem would affect their job. Whatever your reasons, the benefits of seeking addiction treatment outweigh the fear. Living drug-free will improve your productivity, relationships, and quality of life.

As soon as you note that your loved one shows signs of addiction, try convincing them to seek treatment. Approach the person calmly with no judgment when they are sober. Point out how the drug affects their lives. Offer to support your loved one when going through treatment. If your loved one doesn’t accept help, stage an intervention with a professional for more guidance.

Stimulants Addiction Treatment Process

Only a medical professional can diagnose stimulant use disorder. First, the doctor will evaluate the client to see if they have been using copious amounts of the substance for a long time. To be considered addicted, the user should also show signs like an inability to reduce consumption, intense stimulant cravings, and continued substance use, even when it causes harm to the client and their loved ones. After diagnosis, your doctor should guide you through the right treatment plan for your needs.

Your doctor may recommend the inpatient treatment program if you have a severe substance use disorder. For this option, the client stays in the rehab facility for close monitoring and care for 30 to 90 days. Consider this treatment option if you previously relapsed or live in a trigger-filled home. When preparing to get into inpatient treatment, speak to your employer and inform them that you will be away for some time. You also need to make living arrangements for your children.

People with less severe cases of stimulant use disorder, good physical health, a stable living environment, and a sound support system may consider outpatient treatment. You will have to attend various treatment sessions in the rehab center for a few hours and then head home. Outpatient rehab allows you to continue caring for your family, attend school, or work while on treatment.

Clients requiring more intense treatment than the outpatient program offers but still need to live at home can consider partial hospitalization. For this program, you receive high-level care during the day for about four to six hours, five days a week. Irrespective of your chosen treatment plan, stimulant addiction treatment entails the following processes.

Detoxification

After an extended period of use, your brain becomes reliant on stimulants to function. If you cease using the drugs, your body will have difficulty readjusting to function independently. This may result in some unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, which can be challenging to cope with. In the first few hours after your last stimulant dose, you may begin to experience the following withdrawal symptoms.

• • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Intense cravings
  • Mood swings
  • Fatigue
  • Depression

About 24 hours later, you experience sleepiness, depressed mood, increased appetite, and low energy levels. Heavy stimulant users also experience hallucinations and paranoia. Most of these symptoms start to subside within the first week, but drug cravings may become more intense at this time. You may also experience extreme depression and fatigue. Acute withdrawal symptoms, including cravings, insomnia, and depression, continue weeks later.

Without professional assistance, withdrawal symptoms like mood swings and depression could lead to self-harm and suicidal thoughts. People with an underlying mental illness may struggle with severe depression during withdrawal. It’s often challenging to withdraw from stimulants alone in your home environment. A professional will safely flush simulants out of your body during medical detox. The doctor will offer medication to make depression, insomnia, anxiety, and other withdrawal symptoms more manageable. You will also receive emotional support and professional guidance during this potentially turbulent phase.

Therapy

Most people struggling with substance use disorder also have an underlying mental health issue. For example, based on a study, amphetamines use can result in psychosis, suicidality, and depression. This is where therapy comes in to help modify a person’s behavior, feelings, and drug use expectations, which helps reduce stress and effectively manage triggers. Some effective therapy approaches to treat stimulant addiction include the following.

Individual Therapy

Through individual therapy, a counselor will help you find the root cause of your addiction. You will better understand how addiction impacts your health, learn how to recognize triggers, and develop coping techniques to help you navigate life without drugs.

Group Therapy

Group therapy connects you with peers going through similar problems, which gives you a safe space to share your experiences. It reduces isolation and gives you a chance to witness other people’s recovery, which instills a sense of hope.

Family Therapy

Addiction affects each family member differently, from emotional distress, impaired attachments, and violence to economic hardships. Family therapy will help address conflicts, improve communication, and rebuild trust in a family. This will lead to improved health and well-being in the entire family.

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing strengthens the client’s motivation to maintain sobriety. Your therapist will help you understand the motive behind certain behaviors and emphasize the importance of change to help you overcome internal battles that affect your willingness to quit drugs.

Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT makes you more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to help you understand how they can lead to unhealthy patterns like drug abuse. In addition, it enables you to take a more practical point of view when faced with difficulties to avoid negative emotions that cause anxiety, depression, and addiction.

Contingency Management

Contingency Management involves giving tangible rewards to the client to reinforce positive behaviors. For instance, you may receive a gift card or voucher upon confirmation of a negative urine screen.

Aftercare

Addiction treatment doesn’t stop after detox and rehabilitation. You will need ongoing treatment to maintain long-term sobriety. Talk with your therapist to help you develop an effective aftercare plan tailored to your needs and circumstances. You can join a 12-step program to receive encouragement and resources to help you build better-coping skills. Alumni programs are another terrific way to stay connected with the former staff and colleagues in the rehab center. A sober living home will help you safely transition from the rehab center into the community with minimal risks of relapse. These residential facilities have strict rules and offer a supportive environment for people recovering from addiction.

Get Help Today

Deciding to quit drugs and enrolling in a rehab facility like Liberty Bay Recovery are some of the most critical steps in addiction recovery. Once at Liberty Bay Recovery, your doctor will recommend the most effective treatment plan for stimulant use disorder that involve medications, rehabilitation, support groups, and therapy. While working on recovery, some days will feel more difficult than others. But, despite the challenges, continue showing up for counseling, build on healthy habits, follow through on your aftercare plan, and eventually, you will attain long-term sobriety.

The post Stimulants: Addiction Symptoms & Treatment Options 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.

The post Stress Responses: Fight, Flight, or Freeze appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.

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.

The post The Power of Positive Affirmations appeared first on Liberty Bay Recovery Center.