The Benefits of Telehealth Treatment for Opioid Addiction
Individuals struggling with opioid addiction require proper care and treatment. With online treatment becoming increasingly popular, it’s now easier than ever to receive the help you need and deserve. Through telehealth treatment, also referred to as telemedicine, recovering individuals can receive top of the line treatment from the comfort of their homes. There are many benefits to a virtual rehabilitation program that can make all the difference in an addicted person’s life. There are already many recovering individuals benefiting from telehealth treatment for opioid addiction. A former addict by the name of Nathan Post, needed treatment after a decade-long drug addiction. In an interview with NPR, Nathan goes on to share his story about receiving online treatment in 2018 by signing up for weekly individual and group counseling sessions. Nathan mentions that, “As an addict, it was easy to have excuses not to do stuff, but this was easy because I could just be in my living room and turn on my computer, so I had no reason to blow it off.” This goes on to show that there are countless benefits and opportunities using telehealth treatment for individuals in need of opioid addiction treatment. At Footprints to Recovery, we have a variety of high-quality online treatment resources. What is Telehealth/Telemedicine? The use of telemedicine for opioid addiction treatment gives health care professionals the ability to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients at a distance with the use of telecommunications technology. Telemedicine, also referred to as telehealth treatment, is a fantastic innovation that allows healthcare professionals to reach people and areas that they previously weren’t able to. For example, With the consistent progression of technology, recovering individuals can now receive opioid addiction treatment wherever they are through their phone, tablet, or computer. The Opioid Epidemic: Let’s Look at the Facts Did you know that more than 11 million people misused prescription opioids in 2017? Furthermore, prescription opioids were involved in more than 35% of all opioid overdose deaths, nearly 17,000, in the same year. The opioid epidemic has devastated countless people and communities nationwide. It’s a war that our country has been fighting for decades now. It is vital to help our fellow neighbors and peers recover from opioid addiction through greater access to treatment. Millions of Americans use opioids to manage pain yearly. Although they are prescribed and often appropriate in some cases, the reliance on these opioids has led to the most severe drug crisis in American history. Telehealth Treatment: The Benefits of Taking it Online: There are many benefits to telehealth treatment for opioid addiction. We believe that each person has an enormous potential to not only live a long-lasting sober life, but gain a newfound sense of fulfillment. Kindly see below for a handful of benefits that go alongside telehealth treatment. No more worries about transportation. Many individuals in need of opioid addiction treatment may find themselves worrying about transportation. When you attend treatment through a mobile device or computer, you can save money on gas, parking, and public transportation. Also, you can do everything from the comfort of your own home so a car isn’t even required. Traffic, tardiness, and any vehicle-related issues no longer get in the way of receiving opioid addiction treatment. No need to take time off of work. When it comes to your professional life, you’ll be able to attend work as usual without needing to fret about taking time off. You can simply schedule your online sessions based on your needs and schedule. As long as you have space with some privacy, you’ll be able to receive treatment from just about anywhere. The ability to take care of a child or elder at home. When looking for opioid addiction treatment, it’s common to be hesitant due to responsibilities at home. Many recovering individuals have obligations such as taking care of a child or elder at home. This is one of the biggest benefits of telehealth treatment. You can focus on your priorities at home while receiving the treatment you need. There’s no need to leave your home which allows you to fulfill your responsibilities. Access to the highest quality addiction specialists. Recovering individuals in need of opioid addiction may find themselves unable or reluctant to drive long distances and invest a lot of time for each treatment session. Telehealth treatment for opioid addiction makes it possible to leverage the expertise of addiction specialists and counselors who may not be nearby. This is another major advantage when it comes to telehealth treatment. Hate the waiting room? That’s no longer a problem with telehealth treatment for opioid addiction. We all remember those old magazines that are often lying around in a doctor’s office. Through telehealth treatment, you can save yourself quite some time and page-flipping! Another benefit of telehealth treatment for opioid addiction is that there’s no need to wait around for your appointment. No waiting room, no problem. Improved health and less risk of catching any sicknesses. The ability to attend treatment from the comfort and safety of your home increases your chances of staying healthy. Even better, you can immediately apply what you learned in treatment to live at home. With telehealth treatment for opioid addiction, you can pay closer attention to your health without needing to leave your home. Immediate application of lifestyle changes combined with consistent communication. Telehealth treatment can be enormously beneficial in treating opioid addiction for this reason. Healthy behavior patterns are created through consistent sessions with a therapist. Certain basic behavior-based apps and programs portray to recovering individuals how to take action in their lifestyle changes. As healthier coping mechanisms are formed, the recovering individual will slowly become free from the shackles of addiction. Also, communication and recovering individuals highly benefit from consistent communication and motivation. Online Treatment Options Fortunately, there are many treatment options available through telehealth treatment for opioid addiction. Through video conferencing and phone calls, our addiction specialists are within your reach to help you successfully recover. It’s important to emphasize that
How Do I Find Addiction Treatment During the Coronavirus Pandemic?
Daily concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic continue to rise across the nation. With more restrictions happening regarding anti-socializing, stay home orders being placed, and travel restrictions being implemented, it leaves people wondering if they should even seek help for their addiction in this current state. But the truth is there’s never been a better time to seek addiction treatment. Addiction treatment and rehab facilities have all become exempt from a stay at home orders guidelines, and Footprints to Recovery intend to continue operating and assisting anyone in dire need of treatment services during this difficult time. During isolating times like these, a professional medical treatment center is an excellent place to make new connections while being surrounded by a supportive and safe sober community. Addiction does not discriminate, and it certainly does not wait for the best opportunity for an addict to choose to get help. During this coronavirus global pandemic, the top question individuals struggling with drugs and alcohol ask is, are they still able to attend treatment during this time? It is during these times of crisis which leads to more anxiety and stress amongst people, especially for the individuals struggling with an addiction. Here at Footprints to Recovery, we are still running and are fully prepared to help individuals seeking drug and alcohol treatment during the coronavirus outbreak. As news of COVID-19 continues to be a front-page headline, Americans will continue to stock up on necessities while continuing to anticipate long periods of social distancing. Everybody is at risk, especially the elderly. Grocery stores have required six feet of distance between customers checking out, supply stores have closed non-essential departments, and group gatherings have been discouraged. But what about patients who regularly attend 12 step meetings during the rehab recovery process? How COVID-19 Will Change 12-Step Meetings Daily, millions of U.S. residents rely on 12 step meetings like Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous to sustain recovery. These group therapy meetings serve a few functions; they will provide support, accountability, and a feeling of acceptance for individuals who have overcome their addiction. However, new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and also The World Health Organization had both recommended avoiding large groups. They also encourage everyone to obey social distancing by staying at least 6 feet apart. Social distancing is being near but still a part of the physical distance between individuals who do not live in the same residence. For communities, this will mean closing workplaces, schools, and other significant events previously scheduled. For people, though, this means staying at least 6 feet in between everybody else while in public places. Thankfully though, there are still a few options for individuals who do need or enjoy NA and AA meetings. State-run anonymous groups have started taking action to address COVID-19 self-quarantine therapy sessions. For example, current group meetings are happening via phone calls, group texts, FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, even conference calls. The general service office of alcoholics anonymous has stated that multiple groups across the U.S. have taken steps to protect the group members through many different cautionary measures. A few examples being practiced include: Adapting Your Recovery for Coronavirus The most significant lifestyle change during the coronavirus outbreak is the indefinite period of self-quarantine. As of right now, the government has given orders that all non-essential personnel must stay home and work remotely, if possible. Schools have been shut down to online classes, and all restaurants and resorts have been closed. The idea is to only leave the house for work or necessities like grocery runs or somebody depending on your care for them. It’s quite apparent that isolation becomes very challenging for patients in recovery. Accountability and support are highly necessary to keep recovering addicts on track. There are multiple steps people can take to make their time at home positive rather than stressful. The first method would be to consider listening to a recovery speaker online. There are multiple rehab treatment websites online. They will offer a library of recordings and guest blogs that will cover all aspects of treatment, addiction, and recovery. This content will inspire those looking to start or to continue their sobriety journey. Keep Connected After that, make an effort to stay connected with the critical members of your life. Whether you’re doing a remote anonymous meeting or following up with your sponsor, keep all your positive friends and influencers around during these quarantine times. Be persistent and regular and calling friends and relatives to check-in; this will give you social interaction and let them know that you are OK during this time. It is also highly encouraged to keep busy. Isolation will sabotage all efforts of sobriety if not taking seriously. Keep any substances entirely free from the house and make a list of activities you can do to entertain yourself when needed. Isolation gives you time to do multiple things like learning the instrument, to do a construction job you’ve been putting off, or to start a book series. With an umpteen amount of time on your hands, there are many things you can do that are positive and uplifting. Finally, do not be afraid to ask for help during these trying times. The future is uncertain, and you may find yourself in an unprecedented situation during the recovery journey. It is essential to be prepared to contact the right treatment center, therapist, or sponsor when bad days come about. Our staff at Footprints to recovery are available 24/7 to help you with any questions or concerns you have during this time. Telehealth Addiction Treatment During Coronavirus Pandemic Due to social distancing to help flatten the curve and prevent any further spreading of COVID-19, an avenue that has been catapulted as of lately is the use of telehealth. Telehealth directly influences the theory of flattening the curve for health systems worldwide by still allowing treatment professionals and patients to communicate without physical contact. It has
Should You Hold an Intervention?
While on the surface, an intervention might seem pretty straightforward and easy, it’s actually an incredibly complicated ordeal that involves a lot of moving parts. Not only do you have to get the group together and figure out a time and place that works for everyone, but you also have to convince the person who you think needs an intervention to come to the location where it’s going to take place. So, how do you go about holding an intervention? Well, let’s take a look. What is an Intervention? In the simplest of terms, an intervention is an occurrence in which a person with a problem, such as a drug or alcohol addiction, is confronted by a group of friends or family members. The goal of an intervention is to compel the person to acknowledge and deal with the problem. What Happens During an Intervention? As we discussed in the intro, on the surface, an intervention seems like a pretty straight forward thing. A family member or loved one is suffering from a problem, usually a drug or alcohol addiction, and doesn’t see how it is not only negatively affecting themselves, but others in their lives as well. You gather everyone together, including the person suffering from the addiction, where you sit them down and tell them how their addiction is affecting themselves and others. It seems pretty simple, right? Well, in most cases, it’s anything but simple. First off, it’s likely going to be difficult to convince the addict to even show up for the intervention. You will likely have to figure out a way to get them to show up without them knowing what’s really going on. After you get them there, be prepared for a lot of anger, hostility, and animosity. Chances are the person suffering doesn’t think they have a problem. Or, they think that it’s not affecting others. While you and the others participating know this is not the case, it could cause some disagreements and heated arguments. During the intervention, you and the others participating will take turns sharing how the person’s addiction has either hurt you, hurt themselves, or have adversely affected your relationship. An ultimatum will likely need to be given in order to hammer home just how serious this is. In most cases, the intervention will involve undergoing some sort of addiction treatment. It’s important that everyone participating in the intervention agree to the ultimatum beforehand, and all remain on the same page during the intervention. If one person deviates from the plan, it can ruin the entire intervention. How Do You Plan an Intervention? Like the entire process, planning an intervention is more complicated than it may seem. Here are some things to consider when planning an intervention. Getting a team together The only way that an intervention can be truly effective is to get a group of close friends and family members together. These should be people that not only care deeply for the addict but people that the addict also cares deeply for and respects. If you would like to bring in a professional to help with the intervention, they will need to be included in this team as well. Learn about the process Unless you or someone in the group you have picked has been through an intervention before, then chances are you will need to study up on the process. Many people choose to hire a professional such as a therapist or interventionist who have experience in running interventions to help with the process. If you choose to run it yourself, it is important that you do your homework. Pick a time and place If your intervention is going to involve several people, this can be difficult. You will need to make sure to pick a time and place that works for everyone. When it comes to picking the location, make sure it is somewhere that the person who needs the intervention will feel safe. This will help make them feel more comfortable, which will hopefully help make the intervention more effective. Learn about their addiction If you haven’t already, take the time to learn not just about their addiction, but the recovery process as well. If you go into this with knowledge about not just the addiction, but the options they have as far as treatment and recovery go, they are more likely to take the intervention seriously. Presenting options will make it feel less like you are ganging up on them, and make them realize that you are here to help them. Prepare a statement It’s crucial that all the participants in the intervention prepare a written statement that they will want to read during the intervention. By preparing a statement in advance, this will allow you to put all your thoughts down on paper in a constructive way while taking a lot of the emotion out of it. Written statements about the impact on relationships can help the person struggling with addiction to understand that their struggle does not impact them alone. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst It’s important to remember that, no matter how much planning and rehearsing goes into an intervention, there’s a chance it will not go well. Just because it didn’t go well doesn’t mean that you failed. Many times addicts don’t want to acknowledge that they have a problem. It’s important to have a plan in place just in case the intervention does not go as well as you would have hoped. You may want to give an ultimatum or even stop any enabling behaviors and limit access to finances, housing, or any other support you provide that enables addictive behaviors to continue. What NOT To Do During an Intervention We talked about all the things to focus on doing during an intervention; now it’s time to talk about the things to avoid doing. Because an intervention is such a tricky thing to pull off, it’s important not only to
College Students Can Manage Back-to-School Relapse Triggers
In fall 2019, almost 20 million people will attend college in the United States. A little more than 12 million will go to school fulltime while about 7.8 million will be part-time students, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. For many of these people, heading back to school means a blur of activity colored with the promise of a fresh start. For students who are trying to live free from drugs and alcohol, the chance to start over is a huge gift. But college presents with various triggers for relapse to drug and alcohol use. According to the results from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed Tables (NSDUH) about 33 percent of fulltime college students between the ages of 18 and 22 reported past-month binge drinking, and about 20 percent reported past-month use of an illicit drug. Here are some of the most common triggers for drinking and drug use in college, coupled with healthy coping mechanisms that can turn things around. 1: Academic Pressure Many people fear the perceived pressure that comes with college-level work: both the need to get good grades and the push to become a leader on campus in order to demonstrate expertise. Whether the goal is to transition into the workforce after graduation or to enroll in grad school, the need to get good grades and qualify for competitive academic programs is significant. Many students feel the pressure from the first day of their freshman year. Rather than attempt to relieve this pressure with binge drinking, college students can: Create a written plan for all the work they need to accomplish, starting with mapping out big projects and exams, and breaking down each one into actionable, bite-sized pieces. Get the sleep they need to be awake and aware during class. Recognize when a subject is difficult and ask for help from the professor and teaching assistants. Know when to say “no” to a commitment that is too intensive or will conflict with the ability to achieve higher priority objectives. 2: Social Pressure Feeling accepted by a community of peers on a social level can be just as stressful as academic pressure. If peers regularly drink or use drugs, it can be difficult to abstain and still feel a connection with the group. Instead of feeling like it’s necessary to be like the group and drink or get high, students can: Spend time with their peers when they are not drinking and getting high. Seek out new peer groups where substance abuse is not a focus. Try to connect with new friends on a one-on-one basis, where drinking and drug use will not be part of the experience. Connect with new people based on shared interests, like a sport or an extracurricular group. 3: Curiosity College is a time of exploration, and for many, first time use and/or regular use of substances begins during these years. According to the 2014 NSDUH, on an average day, about 7,000 fulltime college students tried alcohol or a drug for the first time. When substance use begins as a means of managing college stressors, it’s a serious problem. Rather than viewing substance abuse as a rite of passage, students can consider: The potential risks of a single use of any substance, especially one that is purchased off the street, as its makeup is virtually unknown. The high rate of addiction among those who use substances regularly for any reason. The life-changing risks associated with unsafe choices made under the influence. The recovery period after drinking and getting high and how it can impact academic performance. 4: Heartbreak Drugs and alcohol play a big role in the dating scene at college. Many people meet at parties and bars while under the influence, and it can have a significant impact on the value of the connection and the subsequent relationship. In any situation where substances play a role, there is the potential to “medicate” the ups and downs with more drugs and alcohol. Instead, students can: Look for romantic possibility with someone who does not drink or use drugs regularly. Find a commonality in a romantic partner that extends beyond a social group, such as shared interests or beliefs. Maintain strong friendships. Ask for help from a therapist or counselor if feelings become overwhelming. 5: Untreated Mental Health Symptoms Many significant mental health disorders begin during the late teens and early 20s. It is not always easy to identify confusing feelings and difficult responses to life as signs that there is something bigger going on. If life often becomes overwhelming or dramatic, and using drugs and alcohol to manage those feelings is the only way out, it might be time for students to: Seek the support of a therapist. Talk to family members who may be experiencing similar difficulties. Consider whether or not an addiction to drugs and alcohol has developed. Understand that treatment may need to include medication and/or treatment for a co-occurring addiction disorder. Are you concerned that drinking or drug use is becoming a problem? How can you manage triggers more healthfully?
What Is Relapse, and Why Does It Happen?
Relapse is a return to alcohol or drug use after being sober for a period of time. It is not unusual to relapse one or more times during recovery. It doesn’t mean addiction treatment didn’t work or that the individual is back to square one in their sobriety. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease, which means that a return to substance use after an attempt to get sober can be part of the recovery process. According to some research, 40 – 60% of people in recovery will relapse, which is around the same rate as other chronic, relapsing diseases such as hypertension or asthma. Like other chronic diseases, treatment is not a cure-all, but it can help manage addiction through therapies, medication, and healthy coping skills that may counteract effects on the brain and change destructive behaviors. Even with treatment, some people will relapse. Being aware of the reasons behind a return to drug and alcohol abuse is an important part of relapse prevention. Here are eight common causes of relapse: #1 Addiction Is a Chronic Disease Addiction has been misunderstood for many years as a choice instead of a disease. Becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol involves biological, behavioral, and environmental factors. Repeated substance abuse changes the brain. Some addiction experts have described it as the brain being hijacked by drugs or alcohol. Substance abuse works on the reward center of the brain. A healthy brain rewards us when we do healthy things that support our survival. A brain that’s been exposed to substance abuse rewards us for giving it more drugs and alcohol. The “rewiring” of some of the brain’s structural and functional parts makes it believe it needs substances for survival, just like it would food, water, and connections with others. That is why people who are addicted may act out of character, like stealing to support their drug or alcohol use. They have tunnel vision. Getting more substances to either experience the high or ward off withdrawal in the absence of drugs or alcohol is their focus above all else. Thankfully, the brain has neuroplasticity, which means it can change, adapt, and create new neural pathways. However, it takes time to repair the physical and mental damage of addiction. The longer an individual is in recovery, the more time for the brain to adjust to sobriety and return to a healthier reward system. However, the risk for relapse will always be present. Without treatment, aftercare, and a relapse prevention plan, biological addiction factors can lead to relapse. #2 Encounters With Triggers Substance abuse changes the brain in ways that make triggers feel impossible to walk away from. After repeated alcohol and drug abuse, the brain develops strong links between people, places, and things associated with substance use. These associations are so strong that just encountering addiction triggers activate the brain’s reward center in a way that creates powerful urges and cravings. Common relapse triggers include: #3 Withdrawal Symptoms Research shows that withdrawal symptoms can play a significant role in addiction relapse. This is the case when people try to go through drug or alcohol detox on their own as well as after longer periods of abstinence. Withdrawal symptoms depend on the substance abused, duration of abuse, and physical makeup, but can include uncomfortable, painful, and even dangerous conditions like: Without the help of medical professionals to ease withdrawal symptoms with research-backed medications and other approaches, it’s very hard to resist the urge to use drugs or alcohol to stop the discomfort that can accompany alcohol and drug detox. Though physical discomfort from drug or alcohol withdrawal usually gets better within days or weeks, psychological symptoms can linger for some time. This is known as post-acute withdrawal symptoms, or PAWS. The nervous system can take several months to rebalance itself. The result is sometimes symptoms like: The severity of these symptoms varies for people recovering from drug or alcohol abuse. Research shows that people can be more susceptible to triggers during this period and are at the highest risk of relapse. #4 Lack of Recovery Support Addiction recovery is a life-long pursuit that requires permanent lifestyle changes and healthy practices to keep up. People without critical support are more vulnerable to relapse. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends components of drug addiction treatment and recovery practices that can be part of a comprehensive relapse prevention plan, which supports long-term sobriety. Some of these include: Supportive Loved Ones Research shows that when people in recovery perceive they have the support of family, it decreases their risk of relapse. In the absence of family support, close friends and peers in recovery can play a significant role in long-term sobriety. Recovery Groups Support groups like 12-step based Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous provide accountability and peer support in sobriety. This same type of support can be found in alternatives to the 12 Steps like SMART Recovery or Refuge Recovery. Continued Care Research shows people that continue with some form of aftercare upon completing addiction treatment are more likely to stay sober. However, many individuals who complete rehab do not follow through with aftercare treatment recommendations, putting them at risk for relapse. Aftercare resources provide extended care after treatment and may include: Therapy Individual therapy sessions with a behavioral health professional helps people in recovery continue working on underlying issues that contribute to substance abuse. Trauma, unhealthy attachment styles, and other behavioral health issues can take several years to identify, manage, and change. Being aware of these challenges and continuing to work on them can mitigate the drive to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. Research has shown that a cognitive behavioral therapy approach is particularly beneficial for people recovering from substance abuse. #5 Poor Self-Care Lack of sleep and other poor self-care habits have been linked to addiction relapse. Poor self-care can also serve as a relapse warning sign to loved ones, as people in active addiction often let hygiene, nutrition, and other healthy habits go by the wayside.
7 Books to Read If You Want to Understand Addiction Better and Build a Better Life
One of the best ways you can help yourself—or someone else—amidst addiction is to read. Learning from others can help you know what works and what doesn’t. (That’s partly why support groups and an alumni community are so important in recovery!) While no two peoples’ recoveries are exactly the same, there’s no getting through addiction alone. There’s no roadmap for overcoming substance abuse, so learning from each other is crucial. And books are a great way to do that! Whether you are in search of answers to your questions about addiction, support and encouragement, or simply comfort, give these a try. 1. Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs by Johann Hari Author Johann Hari explores the topic of addiction in a viral TED Talk titled “Everything you think you know about addiction is wrong.” (Watch it here.) Hari’s TED Talk came from his personal exploration and research, which went into his book Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs. In this book, Hari looks for answers to the causes of addiction and treatments for it. He views addiction treatment through a broad, socio-political lens, examining how society treats addicts. Filled with anecdotal and research evidence, this is a thought-provoking read on how people view and treat those fighting alcohol addiction and drug use. Are You Trying to Quit Using Drugs or Alcohol? We offer an array of addiction treatment services & therapies 2. Clean: Overcoming Addiction and Ending America’s Greatest Tragedy by David Sheff If this author sounds familiar, it’s probably because you’ve heard of his other well-received book about addiction: Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction. In Clean, Sheff digs into why people use drugs and alcohol to begin with. He explains how addiction progresses and details methods for getting and staying clean. In doing so, Sheff explores specific issues like: The result is a well-informed, comprehensive look at individualized and program interventions. Sheff walks the reader through the problem of addiction and the solutions. 3. Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change (A Guide for Families) by Jeffrey Foote, Carrie Wilkens, Nicole Kosanke, and Stephanie Higgs Families of those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction often have questions that are difficult to answer. The age-old question of how to support an addict without enabling them is especially tough. Learning from someone else’s expertise can help. Beyond Addiction answers the impossible-seeming questions about how to love someone with an addiction. This book contains material specific for the family (including a list of “Things You Can Change” and various worksheets), as well as information on what addiction is and what motivates people to change. There aren’t many books out there specifically for family members, making this an invaluable resource. 4. Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions by Russell Brand There are many well-known autobiographical books about people’s own struggles with addiction. These books often provide a close look at what addiction is and what it’s like to live with it. Russell Brand’s book isn’t one of them. It focuses more on recovery. Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions is the comedian/actor’s perspective of recovery as he walks the reader through his interpretation of the 12 steps. Brand’s book is especially useful as a tool in facilitating 12-step-group discussion. It conveys the important message that developing your own understanding and deep personalization of the 12 steps is key to making them work for you. 5. Drinking: A Love Story by Caroline Knapp This memoir is a deeply personal account of Knapp’s 20 years as a successful, Ivy-League-prepared, secretly alcoholic editor and columnist. Drinking: A Love Story shines a light on how pervasive addiction is, especially alcoholism, in places where people least expect it. If you struggle or know someone who struggles with high-functioning alcoholism, this is the book for you. Knapp also examines the unique experiences of being a woman and an addict. This is a great read for anyone struggling with alcoholism who may not realize the powerful, devastating effects something so normal and accepted in society can have. 6. A Very Fine House: A Mother\’s Story of Love, Faith, and Crystal Meth by Barbara Cofer Stoefen This is another great read for family members—especially parents—of someone facing addiction. In A Very Fine House, Cofer Stoefen chronicles her journey from idyllic Norman Rockwell family life to being the parent of an unlikely meth addict. This personal story takes a gut-wrenching look at the grief that goes along with a child’s substance abuse: grief for the person your child was, who you thought they’d become, and your own future as you envisioned it. It recounts the brave act of caring for yourself while caring for an addicted loved one. It ends with Cofer Stoefen’s daughter’s recovery, as well as the author’s, and what it took for them both to get there. 7. The Big Book and the Basic Text (AKA Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous) Although these books may seem obvious, they’re iconic for a reason. The Big Book and the Basic Text, titled by the names of their given fellowships, are must-reads for anyone who identifies as an alcoholic and/or addict. They’re also highly recommended for anyone close to or who works with someone who struggles with substance abuse. The insights found within The Big Book and the Basic Text are unlike any you’ll find in other books. If you attend an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meeting, you’re sure to hear excerpts that proved life-changing for someone in the grip of addiction. Many can attest to feeling these books were written just for them. Once you start reading about addiction and recovery, you have almost no choice but to understand it better. And when you understand something better, you’re in a much better position to change it, whether it’s for yourself or someone else. Don’t miss these seven great books about addiction!
9 Reasons People Continue to Use Drugs and Alcohol
The path to recovery is a slippery slope. You must maintain contact with each moment to ensure you’re moving away from behaviors that contribute to substance use. This means paying attention to feelings and experiences that can trigger you in recovery. These can be different than the ones that prompted substance use in the first place. Often people start using drugs or alcohol to “feel good,” which may evolve into using substances to avoid “feeling” altogether. Emotional and social vulnerability can be one of the most terrifying experiences while also serving as the key to escaping the locked prison of your mind. The decision to pursue recovery is usually not made in haste. It’s often a decision that’s entertained, then dismissed for another day. In the world of Motivational Interviewing – a behavioral change approach used in substance use treatment — the stage where people tend to get stuck is called “ambivalence.” Ambivalence about change is a normal reaction when you’ve invested an immense amount of energy, time, and commitment to a behavior — particularly one that’s rewarding at times. The nine reasons listed below are common themes I’ve seen during my time working with people struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions: 1. Lack of Coping Skills to Manage Mood and Recovery People using drugs or drinking alcohol can feel instantly gratified by substance use and see it as a solution to difficulties. The problem is that over time, alcohol and drug use lower your ability to tolerate stress and triggers. This can cause you to feel unprepared to deal with whatever emotional crises or trigger you’re experiencing. The short-term solution of using alcohol and drugs evolves into a long-term problem that’s difficult to change. In times of stress, your mind attempts to find the quickest solution to the problem. Therefore, in recovery, it’s critical to practice healthy coping skills like mindfulness and other grounding techniques to empower yourself to be proactive and not reactive in triggering situations. 2. Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions The co-occurrence of addiction and mental health disorders is the norm, not the exception. It makes sense that if you’re struggling with your mental health, you would look for a way to alleviate the emotional pain. Substance use may initially start out as a way to solve the “problems” associated with difficult feelings, but it may quickly spiral into its own separate problem. The initial mental health problems that substance use was self-medicating may feel even more overwhelming when you stop using drugs and alcohol. The intensity of the emotional experience can trigger feelings of hopelessness that your situation will never improve. That’s why it’s important to enlist the support of a therapist and/or group in recovery. They can help you identify effective tools to cope with a mental health diagnosis instead of using drugs and alcohol. 3. Medical Diagnosis Medical issues can be a huge deterrent to seeking addiction treatment, especially chronic pain. If you rely on prescription medication to manage medical conditions, you must find alternative ways to ease pain. Successful pain management for people struggling with drug or alcohol use provides unique challenges for primary care physicians. However, pain control can be successful if physicians follow guidelines by leaders in the industry such as those from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. 4. Lack of Resources Identifying a place to get sober from drugs and alcohol can feel overwhelming. Not every community has a surplus of resources dedicated to substance use and dual diagnosis treatment. This leaves very limited options that do not fully address all of your clinical needs. Barriers to attending an addiction treatment program can include: Often, apprehension is a barrier as well. Not knowing what actually happens at an addiction treatment center can fuel ambivalence about seeking help. This further delays the steps needed to enter treatment. Internet searches may produce an endless amount of detox facilities and countless drug and alcohol rehab centers. Many of them promising the world yet delivering on very few of their promises. Narrowing the search can feel impossible. The first step begins with picking up the phone to educate yourself on the available resources out there. 5. Guilt/Shame People with substance use disorders can feel overwhelmed by shame or guilt. Shame is a chronic feeling that eats away at you, often filling the mind with thoughts like: “I am no good,” or “I will fail regardless of how hard I try.” Feelings and thoughts associated with shame create additional hurdles to overcome in early recovery. Shame robs you of the healing power of self-compassion. Self-compassion is what holds the key to letting you release the pain and suffering that you’ve not only caused others but also yourself. Being present and treating yourself as worthy of recovery has a powerful impact on your journey. 6. Lack of Confidence Most people do not obtain long-term recovery with their first attempt. The disease of addiction will test you and your ability to believe that you can be successful in your recovery journey. A lack of confidence stops many people from even attempting to pursue recovery, even when they think recovery is something they want. The overall goal of sobriety can be broken down one day at a time – to focus on the present and what you’re pursuing. Each day in recovery is an additional affirmation that recovery is possible and that you possess the ability to sustain it! In a society where substance use is an acceptable behavior, it can be difficult to view drugs and alcohol as a problem and can discourage people from seeking treatment. 7. Family Dynamics Addiction is a family disease. When an individual in the family system is in active addiction, it can throw the entire system off balance. Often loved ones of the family member with an addiction compensate for them by making up excuses or “cleaning up” the damage they cause. These relationship patterns can reinforce drug and alcohol use. Likewise, it
What is Person-First Language?
Person-first language is a way of communicating that respects individuals with issues such as drug and alcohol misuse, mental health disorders, or disabilities. The goal of using person-first language is to recognize the person first rather than their disorder by avoiding terms that can be deemed derogatory. Words can hold a lot of meaning, and simply changing the way we use certain phrases, even when they mean the exact same thing, can make a difference in how people perceive it. For example, if you are addressing an individual with drug addiction, rather than using the term “junkie,” a better alternative you can use is “person with a substance use disorder.” Not only are words like “junkie” and “addict” demeaning to the person, but it also makes it seem like the condition is permanently affecting this individual and that he or she cannot change. We all know that if someone really wants to become substance-free, they will work hard to accomplish that goal. This is something that a person can undoubtedly change about themselves. Individuals that are Seeking Addiction Treatment Also, if an individual is currently receiving treatment for his or her substance misuse, it’s best to refer to that individual as a “patient.” It lets that person know that they are working on becoming substance-free, whereas the demeaning terms are doing nothing other than reminding that person that they have an addiction. Using person-first language is also how you can show respect and let an individual know that you see them for who they are as a person, not their condition. We live in a world where labels can make or break a person. Diagnoses are no different. Fortunately, most physical healthcare providers don’t allow diagnoses to define their patients. They see a diagnosis as a small piece of the individual who is learning to survive, despite a medical battle. Unfortunately, we allow addiction to define approximately 21.5 million Americans each day. Society views those diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, asthma, and other medical conditions as unfortunate victims of a disease that requires treatment, support, and assistance. Why is Person-First Language Important? A person’s mental health disorder or disability does not define who they are, so why would we want to address someone in that way? This is one of the many reasons why it’s important to start using person-centered language, especially in a therapy or rehabilitation setting. There is more to someone than his or her mental health disorder, and using person-first language allows you to put the individual first rather than his or her disorder. A person could have many wonderful skills and talents, but addressing him or her as an addict or junkie makes that negative attribute the center of attention rather than their positive ones. It makes a person feel bad knowing that they have a lot to offer but are only seen as a negative part of society. We live in a world where people are constantly getting labeled. Sometimes those labels are good, but other times they can be quite bad. Labeling individuals has a powerful effect because it’s the first impression you get of that person. Nobody ever likes making a terrible first impression, and the way you address someone can either make them look like a bad person or a wonderful person. How to Address an Alcoholic For example, when people think of an alcoholic, the worst things come to mind automatically, and nobody wants anything to do with that alcoholic because they know how dangerous they can become. If you wanted to use person-first language, you would address that person as “someone experiencing an alcohol problem.” Yes, it means the same thing, but the term “alcoholic” has more of a negative connotation to it. When you see someone as a person who is experiencing an alcohol problem, you begin to empathize with them. You don’t see them as a danger to society, but rather as someone who has a problem and needs help. That is why words matter and why using person-first language is important. Conversely, those who abuse illicit substances are at times viewed as offenders, moral failures, and agents of their illness. The medical community utilizes scientifically proven medications and lifesaving treatments to stabilize and manage those with chronic physical health conditions. On the other hand, the idea of medication to treat addiction, or Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), is oftentimes viewed by society as a crutch or replacing one addiction for another. Medications for other chronic physical health conditions are not referred to as MAT, although they are used to manage physical conditions along with healthy lifestyle changes and behavioral modification the same way MAT is utilized in addiction treatment. Medications to treat substance use disorders such as Buprenorphine, Naltrexone, and Methadone Maintenance should not require a different label. How Using Person-First Language Can Make a Difference Using person-first language may seem like a small thing, but it can make a huge difference in how a person sees themselves. Especially in an addiction therapy setting, putting the person before their addiction is key to helping them recover. It shows that you care about them as a person and that you want them to get better. It lets the person receiving treatment know that they are not their addiction. They are a person who happens to have a substance misuse disorder that they are working on fixing. This individual needs to believe that they matter. Stigma and discrimination, simply stated, are the reasons for the behavioral health disparity. The solution, although a bit more complex, begins with simple changes. To reduce the stigma of substance use disorders, we must support the implementation of clinical language that promotes improved treatment and access to care. To improve care, we must use medically accurate, person-first language that focuses on the individual and not the disorder. We must begin to describe those with the disease of addiction as individuals with substance use disorders. To change treatment outcomes, we must alter the language of treatment.
5 Movies That Paint a Real Picture of What Addiction Looks Like
Movies can make us feel a range of emotions. Sometimes we watch them to de-stress, disconnect, and escape our current surroundings. Other times, movies can be a window into our souls and depict on the screen that which we are dealing with in our current lives. When it comes to addiction, Hollywood tends to dramatize what it can look like but, these five movies paint a more realistic picture. 28 days If you want a realistic portrait of life in treatment, you must see 28 days. It tells the story of Gwen, a New York city journalist who loves to be the “life of the party”. When her partying ways become a problem, she is court ordered to check into rehab for 28 days. With lots of laughs, lots of tears, and some “ah ha” moments, you get to know the characters in this movie and their struggles with staying sober. Gwen goes from all-out denial to complete acceptance and learns to, “accept the things she can not change, the courage to change the things that she can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” When A Man Loves A Woman Examining addiction and the family dynamic, this is the movie that breaks it down from all points of view before and after treatment. Those who have been through it know, addiction doesn’t just affect the using individual, it affects the entire family. Alice is an alcoholic and her family begins to see that her drinking has gone from functioning to frightening. She enters treatment as one person and leaves it an entirely different person, a person, that her husband no longer knows or understands and, they begin to see each other as strangers. The movie begs you to ask the question, “what are life and relationships like when going from active use to living in recovery?” Requiem for a Dream When I saw this movie, I knew two things at the end of it. First, this movie is brilliantly portraited and the second, I never wanted to see it again. If this movie would have come out in the 80’s when the “just say no to drugs” campaign was being pushed, one showing of this movie would have surely scared you straight. In it, you are introduced to Sara, a woman whose obsession with fitting into her favorite dress to appear on a game show leads her to seek out a sketchy amphetamine pushing doctor. Sara’s son, Harry, and friends, Marion and Tyrone, have big dreams to open a clothing boutique but, they can never seem to escape their brain\’s obsession in finding their next heroin fix. You notice the parallel between mother and son in their active addiction that leads them into the most disturbing of circumstances. A raw and dark fall down the rabbit hole is the best way to describe what it’s like to see Requiem for a Dream. A Star is Born Over the years, we’ve seen a huge correlation between musicians and substance abuse. There are those that have said they think that it’s necessary to be under the influence to get the creative juices flowing. A Star is Born shows you that way of thinking couldn’t be further from the truth. We see Jackson, a star musician and all-out alcoholic, meet and quickly fall in love with Ally, an aspiring singer who dreams of making it big. Ally’s career begins to take off just as Jackson’s alcohol addiction sends his life spiraling tragically out of control. An important movie to see to tarnish the glamour that can be paired with fame and alcohol and drug use. You will walk away from this film feeling infected by the music and the message. Beautiful Boy Of all the movies I have seen on addiction, the word REAL is the best way to describe this film. Perhaps that is because this movie is based on a true story. A son, Nick, who seems to have it all; the looks, the grades, and the loving family until he is sucked into a world of substance abuse by way of crystal meth. Even after numerous relapses, his father is willing to do anything to help his son find his way out of his world of addiction. The push and pull dynamic you see between the two, the battle of trust lost, the longing to once again have a “normal” relationship, and the complete sense of desperation is so relatable from the viewpoint of the addict and the loved one. From complete frustration to heartwarming moments, this movie will take you on an emotional roller coaster. While movies about addiction may be difficult to watch, they do not compare to what it is like to go through it in real life. If you or a loved one are struggling, help is only a phone call away. We all deserve to live happily ever after!
Coming Clean About Your Addiction
Admitting you have a problem with drugs or alcohol is one of the hardest things to do. It means admitting that you have made mistakes and that you’re aware of it. It may mean losing friends, jobs, housing and starting life over. Furthermore, talking about your addiction now means you are expected to do something about it. Loved ones will be looking to you to get into treatment and to begin to live a completely sober life. With change comes responsibility, expectations, and vulnerability. Also, it can be hard to admit that we need help, regardless of the circumstances or struggles. Addiction can be an isolating disease which makes reaching out difficult and scary. The feeling of being alone and misunderstood can be overwhelming and often times does prevent individuals from asking for help. The U.S has recently woken up to the seriousness of alcohol and drug addiction and started recognizing addiction as a disease. Until the stigma associated with an alcohol and drug addiction is erased, being open and vocal may prove to be emotionally trying for some. It’s not enough that we must deal with our own demons, we must also deal with a society that at times make us feel like demons. It may seem as though there are many reasons to avoid coming clean to loved ones, friends, or family about an alcohol or drug addiction. However, there are so many MORE reasons to have the conversation. Coming clean about your addiction means you can finally begin working on any physical and/or mental health needs you may have neglected. If you’re coming clean to loved ones, family or friends you can begin to talk about what’s been going on in your life, reduce your isolation and receive perhaps the much-needed support you’ve been searching for. Furthermore, your sober and safe support systems can assist you in finding and securing treatment where you can learn healthy ways to cope and manage emotions. Many report that coming clean about their addictions and getting treatment allowed them to repair broken relationships, advance their careers and improve their well-being. Overall, you can finally start to live the life that you so deserve to live. When you are ready to talk to your family, friends, loved ones, or others the following tips may help you navigate the discussion: Just Say It: Unless you’re living far away from your family, friends or loved ones it’s likely your addiction will come as no surprise. Even if they’ve reached out to help you before, it’s important to again state that you have a problem. Be Honest: If you don’t know where to start, start with the truth. This is not to say that you need to get into every detail of your alcohol or drug use but being honest about your relapse warning signs, triggers and relapse prevention plan can help loved ones hold you accountable. Additionally, admitting to the severity of the addiction will help your loved ones to understand how to better help and support you. Take Accountability: Part of being honest is owning up to mistakes and taking responsibility for the decisions you have made that led you here today. One of the most important things to do to convince your loved ones your serious, is to admit your mistakes without placing blame on others. Give Loved One’s Space: Loved ones may need some time to let the information sink in and figure out what this news means for them. It is important not to rush loved ones at this time, just as you wouldn’t want them to rush you. Let them work through this at their own pace. Discuss Plans: Share your treatment plans with your loved ones throughout your recovery. Including loved ones in your treatment can help you stay strong if you feel like giving up. Sharing plans also helps your loved ones hold you accountable if you start straying from your goals. If you’re unsure of where to start with getting help, share that with them too. Encourage Your Family to Get Help and Support Too: It is important for your loved ones to find a good support system that they can turn to when they need to. What better time to encourage them to seek help as well! Keep in mind there is a good chance your loved ones are aware that something is amiss. They may not know exactly what you are struggling with or the severity, but chances are your struggles have not gone unnoticed. They may be afraid to broach the subject, or they may not feel comfortable asking you about their concerns. In fact, those close to you may be waiting for you to come to them. It’s worth stating that before coming clean to your loved ones about your addiction, you must first come clean to yourself. When you can accept you have an addiction and are willing to get help, you are now one step closer to a better life of your own. Your better life can include improved overall health, healthier habits and repaired relationships. You can exercise, eat healthy food and be part of society again. The people in your world can begin to rely on you to keep your commitments, and you can begin to feel more confident about yourself. Not only will you be a better person, but you will also feel better about yourself, and your self-esteem will start to improve. Taking that first step can be daunting, but it’s so worth it. Author: Beth Grady, LAC – Footprints to Recovery – Intake Clinician Arizona
