Substance abuse

Rehab is the Best Way to Help a Person With Substance Abuse Problems

Everyone wants their family members and friends to have the best possible life, be successful, happy, and healthy. But, sometimes that doesn’t happen. When a family member or friend is having trouble with drugs or alcohol, so much so that their whole life is affected, rehab is probably the best place for them.

Alcoholism is a disease that can not be treated without professional help. It can take over a person’s life and bubble over into the lives of family members and friends. The best way to help an alcoholic loved one is to send them to a rehabilitation center. Typically, an alcoholic will require live-in treatment, where the person stays at the rehab center for 30 to 90 days, sometimes longer. The alcoholic will receive various forms of therapy, including individual and group therapy, and sometimes art therapy or other non-traditional forms of treatment. Every center has a different approach and philosophy, so it’s important to research rehab options prior to choosing one for your loved one.

Drug abuse is also a condition that many people require the assistance of professionals. Some people say drug abuse is worse than alcohol abuse, some say it’s not. But, one thing is clear and that is that drug abuse should not be taken lightly. A person abusing drugs not only has to have help kicking the habit, but it is imperative that the underlying problem that caused the person to turn to drugs is also resolved.

Many people turn to substances to self-medicate and forget their problems. Then, the person becomes hooked on the drugs or alcohol. Having a couple drinks on the weekend to unwind, or a glass or two of wine with dinner isn’t bad. It’s when drugs or alcohol interferes with a person’s life, that there is a problem. When a person can’t hold down a job, or spends their salary on drugs instead of food, or they can’t get out of bed in the morning or they scream and possibly hit their kids. The best way to help a person abusing substances is to send them to rehab.

Filed Under: Substance Abuse Treatment Tagged With: Addiction Psychiatry, Alcoholism, Substance abuse

Life after Drug or Alcohol Rehabilitation

Completing a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program literally gives a person an opportunity to start his life over again. However, once the rehabilitation program has ended, there are several steps the person must take in order to get his life in order. These steps are necessary in order to allow one to continue in a successful rehabilitation process as well as prevent or reduce the opportunity for a relapse to occur.

The most important ones are finding a place to live and finding a job. There are many resources and agencies which can help with both of these.

However, during the job search, a person may discover that a college is necessary or at the very least gives one a distinct advantage in obtaining a job. Because of this, many people who have finished rehabilitation may feel that their opportunities for going back to school may be limited, if they even exist at all.

This is not true. Resources such as earnmydegree.com provide information on going back to school through online programs that can be tailored to one’s needs and schedule. This allows a person to work and support himself while attending school, something that might not be possible or as easy with attendance at a traditional college or university.

Besides offering more opportunities in the job market, going back to school online also has other benefits. Taking the initiative to return to school through programs offered through earnmydegree.com or other resources helps prove to the person as well as others that he is willing to take on responsibilities.

Further, taking online classes will give a person other things to focus on. Not only does this help with preventing or diminishing relapse possibilities, but it also lets the person and others know that he is interested in bettering himself, thus once again becoming a productive member of society. Earnmydegree.com wants to provide one means of directing one’s focus towards something positive.

Filed Under: Substance Abuse Recovery Tagged With: Addiction Psychiatry, Addictions, Centers and Counseling Services, Los Angeles, Phil McGraw, Professions In Addiction, Substance abuse, Ted Williams

Substance Abuse: Why Marijuana is a Good Bad Substance

Marijuana might have medicinal value. The Chinese used marijuana to cure chronic migraine. It is also used to treat breathlessness in cancer patients after chemotherapy. These are among some of the benefits of marijuana. Yet, it is a good bad substance. In other words, in spite of it having some good sides to it, it is still regarded as a narcotic killer of a substance. Thousands of substance abuse victims have fallen prey to marijuana and still are.

Marijuana has high addiction properties for substance abuse

Marijuana is a substance that is a Schedule 1 drug. It is classified as an additive by the Controlled Substances Act. People addicted to marijuana find it difficult to come out of its addiction. Even though alcohol is also a highly addictive substance, it is still a legal substance, unlike marijuana. Quite ironically. Certain sections of the medical fraternity are fighting for the legalization of marijuana. It will quite an event if the government decides to make marijuana legal.

It has unconfirmed medical benefits

Although there have been claims about marijuana’s effect on alleviating people’s pain, nausea, and a lot of the symptoms, there has been no substantial medical proof on the same. It is now being debated if marijuana does alleviate people’s symptoms. It has been used in cases of glaucoma, cancer, migraine and so on. But there is no lab-tested research-driven medical literature that acts as proof.

It is a bad lifestyle substance

Marijuana has the infamous distinction for being consumed in nightclubs to give people a ‘high’. Its use has been abused. Almost a majority of substance abuse victims in rehabilitation centers are marijuana addicts.

It has always been a psychoactive substance

Historically speaking, marijuana has never been a medicine. It has always been used in recreational activities and lifestyle activities. So it is difficult to give it a new identity. And it is difficult to convince others to use it the right way.

Filed Under: General Rehab & Addiction Tagged With: Substance abuse

Recognizing a Substance Abuse Problem

The signs and symptoms of substance abuse are many. They can generally be recognized and alert people to an addiction than an individual may have.

The emotional or psychological symptoms of substance abuse can include insomnia, anxiety or panic attacks. Drug abuse can cause changes to the central nervous system or brain chemistry that can alter mood or perception. These changes can resemble mental illnesses. Some hallucinogens have been known to trigger hallucinations long after a person has stopped taking the drug. Psychological symptoms can also include depression that can lead to suicide.

Some of the physical symptoms of a drug abuse problem can include sickness and a physical dependence on the substance which can cause periods of severe withdraw. An addict’s eating habits and sleep schedule may change.

The symptoms of a substance abuse problem can not simply be broken down into emotional and physical symptoms as they can often overlap. Naturally, an emotional problem can cause a physical reaction. For example, a person with lowered inhibitions or psychological trauma may have unprotected sex or commit a violent crime – possibly while not even being aware of the event. Someone with altered perceptions may have a motor vehicle accident or injure themselves or others in some other way.

The substances to which people can become abusively addicted are far too numerous to list here, but at lease one should be mentioned. Alcohol is perhaps one of the easiest to acquire and one of the most often abused substances – even among adolescents. Depression is common with alcohol abuse and can be severe enough for a person to commit suicide.

A person abusing a substance might not always be aware of their problem. They may think that they have it under control or nothing bad will happen. In that case, it may be up to others – friends or family – to recognize the problem and takes steps to help the addict.

Filed Under: Types of Substance Abuse Tagged With: Addiction And Recovery, Mental disorder, Substance abuse, Substance dependence

Treating a Substance Abuse Problem

A substance abuse problem is a serious issue that people often needs help to resolve. They may feel that their addiction is stronger than them or they may have become physically dependant on the drug and trying to quit causes the pain of withdraw. In some cases, they may not even believe they have a problem. Gaining control of or beating a substance abuse problem is a difficult undertaking that generally requires some sort of rehabilitation or treatment.

Medical treatments or pharmacotherapies are widely used to treat substance abuse problems. Methadone is one drug used to treat patients addicted to heroin and similar substances. Methadone can be used to stabilize the biochemistry of addicts and even eventually wean them off the substances to which they are addicted.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends a combination of medication and behavioral therapy to help rehabilitate addicts. Counseling is often used to combat addiction – either independently or in conjunction with medication. Drug counselors help addicts identify problems in their life and try to build patterns of healthy behavior. The recovering addicts are taught ways to cope with their problems without falling back into their addictions.

Counseling is occasionally done in a group setting and addicts can participate in each others efforts to rid themselves of an addiction. Including addicts’ families or friends in the counseling can provide extra support.

Religion can also provide an extra layer of support and is part of some rehabilitation programs. Addicts involved in certain Twelve-Step programs are meant to acknowledge a Power higher than them and pray for help in their efforts to remove or resolve their addictive behaviors.

Filed Under: Substance Abuse Treatment Tagged With: Addiction And Recovery, Professions In Addiction, Substance abuse

Finding a Substance Abuse Support Group

Addiction to alcohol is one of the most common in the world. Due to easily accessible substances in a variety of products, many people struggle with this addiction and fear help is not available. There are several items to be aware of regarding substance abuse support. Here are a few:

- Most cities have substance abuse support groups that meet regularly. In most instances, the group meets in a central location that many are aware exists. Town halls and other buildings offer their facilities to assist those in need.
- A variety of times and locations are typically scheduled to meet the needs of those affected. Morning, afternoon, and evening gatherings are flexible and encourage people to attend one or multiple sessions whenever support is needed.
- Easy access to meeting times or support groups can be found in local newspapers or online. Many people access these schedules by simply searching for support groups in their cities or nearby towns. Because the newspaper is readily available as well, many can purchase these at local gas stations or simply read them in restaurants, shops, or other public locations.
- Once meetings are confirmed and one is attended, members often choose to carpool or offer support outside of the group. This is especially helpful to new members and makes them feel at ease.

Filed Under: Support Tagged With: Addiction And Recovery, Professions In Addiction, Substance abuse, Support group

Avoiding Relapse With LaPalomaTreatment.com

As much as we would like to think that once we kick the addiction, we have overcome it for good, there are always opportunities where relapse or recurrence may result from our behaviors or our encounters. The holidays, for example, are a period of time that can unfortunately seem to drive many people back into their old habits, habits that cause them to self medicate, or otherwise to turn to drugs. Unfortunately, if you have dealt with addiction in the past, then a single taste can overwhelm you quickly, causing you to escalate back into a drug addicted state.

You may have overcome your addiction in the past, but that does not automatically mean that you are immune from the possibility of relapse. As such, it is important for you to consider potential triggers that would cause you to turn back to your old lifestyle, old habits and your issues with addiction. The holidays are a common trigger, potentially creating instances where someone who is recovering may want to relapse. It is important to consider the options that are available when you feel a relapse coming on, such as contacting someone at LaPalomaTreatment.com for help.

The right support is capable of helping you to avoid the potential for relapse. If you feel yourself slipping in any way, shape or form, then it is vitally essential that you seek help from trained professionals. Trained professionals in the rehab industry will help you find lifestyle changes and smart systems for getting through the holidays without turning to drugs and alcohol in the process. All it takes is the right level of support from individuals with training and expertise in drug addiction recovery, and you will find yourself feeling stronger and more capable than ever in your fight against addiction.

Filed Under: Relapse Tagged With: Addiction And Recovery, Alcoholism, Centers and Counseling Services, Professions In Addiction, Relapse, Substance abuse, Substance dependence, United States

Drug Abuse Assistance Options

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Drug addiction, with its destructive nature and serious consequences, is underestimated by many. Fortunately, this type of substance abuse is combated by support groups. Information about drug addiction is becoming more available and readily communicated to those in need. Many who are or have been addicted are making strides to change their lives and those of others in the same situation. Several options are available for people looking for support regarding substance abuse:

- Informational websites can begin to point addicted individuals in a helpful direction. With many blogs, chat groups, and simple conversations available for viewing, one can find support and help by reading about others’ circumstances and how they recovered. Some people may be able to offer medical suggestions, healthy options, and other useful information on how to get started on the path to recovery. Since some questions may be answered in the convenience and privacy of one’s home, many who are seeking help choose to begin here.
- Finding and checking in with support groups can assist by allowing addicted individuals to talk through their feelings and current circumstances. Since many meetings are available in convenient locations, people in need can continue receiving help here and relate to others in similar situations. Since this offers face-to-face conversation, people may feel more at home during these meetings. Relationships and friendships form and allow those who are struggling to learn from trusted group members.
- Rehabilitation, although costly, is highly effective for individuals with drug addictions. No matter how the addiction developed, rehabilitation facilities use science, medicine, and other holistic techniques to assist patients in the recovery process. Patients receive the support that they need in order to make great changes to their habits and surroundings. Most facilities are open 24 hours a day and can house patients on campus if needed.

Filed Under: Substance Abuse Recovery Tagged With: Addiction Psychiatry, Substance abuse, Substance dependence, Support group

Drug Abuse Affects Both Mind and Body

Many Americans do not realize that drug addiction is both a mental and a physical problem. Because of the nature of the addiction, those who suffer can become dependent on lifestyles and circumstances that seem beyond their control. As a result, both the mind and the body deteriorate and the lifestyle can become a vicious cycle.

Mentally speaking, drug addictions have a way of lowering the user’s self-respect and self-image while increasing doubt about the possibility of change. Different drugs alter mental processes in a variety of ways, but ultimately, the user can begin to think that the circumstances are unable to improve. Without proper information and perhaps a helpful friend or family member, people in need of assistance may feel alone and vulnerable. In many instances, denial may be one of the first signs of an addiction, and encouragement from others can help people fight this form of doubt. The mind can be a powerful tool in the recovery process, and once it is healthy, individuals can use it to develop a strong sense of self respect and motivation. To help rid oneself of negative thoughts and discouraging ideas, friendly support or medical assistance may be the answer.

The body can clearly become dependent on drugs from a chemical standpoint. By changing the chemical balance within the brain and other organs, drugs alter the user’s sense of equilibrium and wellbeing. Many parts of the body are affected. Aside from the brain itself, the lungs can be damaged by smoked drugs, and airways become restricted by the use of tobacco, cocaine, and other inhaled substances. On a smaller scale, the mouth, tongue, teeth, skin, and eyes are all affected negatively by even the most common drugs. Clearly, more formidable diseases such as cancer and emphysema can develop in the lungs as well as the aforementioned organs. Abuse support can prevent physical ailments.

Filed Under: Substance Abuse & The Body Tagged With: Drug, Substance abuse, Substance dependence

Refocus on Life!

There are many choices to make while battling substance abuse or addiction. Making choices that keep the body and mind busy can help with the addiction. In short, it is best to be slightly busier than usual. Focusing on interests, hobbies, family, work, or children can be an excellent way to keep the mind thinking about more positive life circumstances.

Interests and hobbies can be an creative outlet for those fighting drug addiction or alcohol abuse. No matter the season or time of year, activities can occupy the mind and assist people in recovery. Similar to a form of therapy, gardening, hiking, or spending time reading or drawing can be helpful. Because the mind is busy focusing on the activity, the substance is thought about less often. As a result, those who are addicted can learn more about themselves because they are finally able to engage in wholesome activities and think more clearly about their likes and dislikes.

Up to this point, the family members and children of the affected person may have endured many hardships. It is difficult for a caring family to feel helpless in the world of drug or alcohol addiction. Children may be cared for by people other than the parent, and they may be ready for some individualized time. Choosing an activity such as riding bicycles, going out to eat, or playing video games and doing artwork may delight the child as well as keep the addicted individual engaged in something other than alcohol and drugs.

Finding work may be difficult for someone who has battled a drug or alcohol addiction. If possible, applying at work places can provide these individuals with motivation toward new goals and careers. Presenting oneself to a potential employer can change the path of life for everyone involved, and taking on a new job helps occupy the time. Becoming financially stable is a key factor in recovery as well.

Filed Under: General Rehab & Addiction Tagged With: Alcoholism, Substance abuse, Substance dependence