What kinds of questions do you need to ask to find the right drug rehab for you?
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide
https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide
Memphis Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers
https://www.rehabs.com/local/memphis-tn/
https://www.rehabs.com/local/memphis-tn/
Find a Drug and Alcohol Abuse Rehab Center in Tennessee
https://drugabuse.com/usa/drug-abuse/tennessee
https://drugabuse.com/usa/drug-abuse/tennessee
Understanding a Veteran with PTSD
https://online.maryville.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/psychology/understanding-a-veteran-with-ptsd/
https://online.maryville.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/psychology/understanding-a-veteran-with-ptsd/
What Veterans Should Know About Sleep
www.mattressclarity.com/blog/what-veterans-should-know-about-sleep/
www.mattressclarity.com/blog/what-veterans-should-know-about-sleep/
Faith Based Drug & Alcohol Rehab
Of the more than 4 million Americans who misuse prescription opioids, more than half also binge drink, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Put another way, people who binge drink are two times more likely to misuse opioids than non-drinkers, the agency reveals in a new study.
"We are losing far too many Americans each day from overdoses," CDC director Dr. Robert Redfield said in an agency news release. "Combining alcohol and opioids can significantly increase the risk of overdoses and deaths."
For women, binge drinking is having four or more drinks on a single occasion. The threshold for men is five or more drinks. Prescription opioid misuse is defined as taking powerful painkillers like morphine or OxyContin (oxycodone) without a prescription or to get high.
Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency medicine physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, explained that "the simultaneous use of alcohol and prescription opioids is dangerous because both types of substances act as central nervous system depressants." This interaction significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and death, he said.
Glatter called the new study a "major wake-up call."
"We need to educate those who drink excessively about the added dangers of misusing opioids, which can be a recipe for respiratory depression and death," he said.
For the report, the CDC analyzed 2012-2014 data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Those who combined prescription opioid use and binge drinking were likely to be 26 or older. They also tended to be less educated and have lower incomes. Furthermore, prescription opioid misuse rose as binge drinking increased, the researchers found.
What's needed? According to the CDC, a comprehensive effort to tackle excessive drinking and prescription opioid misuse could help to reduce the risk of drug overdoses.
Communities can limit the number of places where people can buy alcohol, restrict the hours when it can be sold and take legal action against places that sell alcohol to minors, the agency advises. Better strategies to prevent and treat opioid disorders would help, too, the agency suggested.
The study was published June 11 in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2019-06-11/opioid-misuse-binge-drinking-often-go-hand-in-hand
Put another way, people who binge drink are two times more likely to misuse opioids than non-drinkers, the agency reveals in a new study.
"We are losing far too many Americans each day from overdoses," CDC director Dr. Robert Redfield said in an agency news release. "Combining alcohol and opioids can significantly increase the risk of overdoses and deaths."
For women, binge drinking is having four or more drinks on a single occasion. The threshold for men is five or more drinks. Prescription opioid misuse is defined as taking powerful painkillers like morphine or OxyContin (oxycodone) without a prescription or to get high.
Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency medicine physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, explained that "the simultaneous use of alcohol and prescription opioids is dangerous because both types of substances act as central nervous system depressants." This interaction significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and death, he said.
Glatter called the new study a "major wake-up call."
"We need to educate those who drink excessively about the added dangers of misusing opioids, which can be a recipe for respiratory depression and death," he said.
For the report, the CDC analyzed 2012-2014 data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Those who combined prescription opioid use and binge drinking were likely to be 26 or older. They also tended to be less educated and have lower incomes. Furthermore, prescription opioid misuse rose as binge drinking increased, the researchers found.
What's needed? According to the CDC, a comprehensive effort to tackle excessive drinking and prescription opioid misuse could help to reduce the risk of drug overdoses.
Communities can limit the number of places where people can buy alcohol, restrict the hours when it can be sold and take legal action against places that sell alcohol to minors, the agency advises. Better strategies to prevent and treat opioid disorders would help, too, the agency suggested.
The study was published June 11 in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2019-06-11/opioid-misuse-binge-drinking-often-go-hand-in-hand
What is Co-Occurring Disorder?
People who have substance use disorders as well as mental health disorders are diagnosed as having co-occurring disorders, or dual disorders. This is also sometimes called a dual diagnosis.
Substance use disorder
A substance use disorder includes
Alcohol or drug dependence is a more severe condition than alcohol or drug abuse. In addition to facing more negative consequences, people with dependence have failed in their attempts to abstain from or control their use of substances. In some cases, physiological dependence may also exist, which is indicated by heightened tolerance (needing more of a substance to get the same effect) and withdrawal (experiencing symptoms such as tremors or nausea when substance use has stopped).
Mental health disorders
Some of the most common mental health disorders found in chemically dependent people include mood- and anxiety disorders. An even higher percentage of people with severe mental illness also have co-occurring substance use disorders. Called severe because of the severity and length of episodes of illness, these mental health disorders include schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. (These latter two disorders with their symptoms of hallucinations or delusions are also sometimes called thought disorders.)
Mood-related disorders
Two entwined problems
Co-occurring disorders can sometimes be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms of substance abuse or addiction can mask symptoms of mental illness, and symptoms of mental illness can be confused with symptoms of addiction. People with mental health disorders sometimes do not address their substance use because they don't believe it is relevant to their problems.
However, some typical patterns do emerge among those with co-occurring disorders:
A worsening of mental health symptoms even while receiving treatment. Those diagnosed with mental health disorders often use substances to feel better. People who are anxious may want something to make them feel calm; people who are depressed may want something to make them feel more animated; people who are fearful of others may want something to make them feel more relaxed and less inhibited; and people who are in psychological pain may want something to make them feel numb.
Using alcohol or other drugs not only fails to repair the mental health disorder but also prevents a person from developing effective coping skills, having satisfying relationships, and feeling comfortable with themselves. Alcohol also interferes with medications prescribed for mental health disorders. In short, drug and alcohol use makes mental health disorders worse.
Alcohol or substance use problems that seem resistant to treatment. People with co-occurring disorders may stop using alcohol or other drugs, but they will find difficulties as the symptoms of their mental health disorders persist. Treatment centers and clinicians and addiction specialists may not be prepared to address both conditions. And some traditional peer recovery groups may insist on abstinence from all drugs - even medications prescribed for mental health disorders. As a result, people with co-occurring disorders find it very difficult to treat their substance-use problems without also treating their mental health disorders.
Integrated Treatment
Although in the past, mental health disorders and addiction problems were often treated separately, we now know that co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders impact one another and must be treated together. Treating just one disorder will not cause the other to automatically improve. And separate, parallel care for the disorders does not result in one, effective treatment plan. To be effective, both disorders must be treated at the same time, in the same place, by the same treatment team. This is called integrated treatment.
How Common Are Co-occurring Disorders?
Being diagnosed with a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder is often referred to as having a dual diagnosis. The disorders together are called dual disorders or co-occurring disorders. Co-occurring disorders are common among people seeking treatment in the mental health or addiction treatment settings.
Although people with this diagnosis may not have received treatment for both disorders, co-occurring disorders are, in fact, common. In a 1990 survey of over 20,000 U.S. adults, over half (53%) of those with a drug use disorder also had a co-occurring mental health disorder. A little over a third (37%) with an alcohol use disorder also had a psychiatric disorder (Regier et al. 1990). Among people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, the rates of co-occurring disorders appear to be even higher. About half of people with these diagnoses also have substance use disorders. According to the 2006 National Survey of Drug Use and Health, 5.6 million people in the United States have co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders.
Causes of co-occurring disorders
There appear to be genetic risk factors for substance use and certain mental health disorders, but genes alone cannot explain all cases of these disorders. Scientists cannot fully explain why some people develop mental health disorders and others do not. One theory that has received support is the stress-vulnerability model. This model holds that both stress and biological vulnerability work together to contribute to symptoms of mental illness.
Biological vulnerability refers to a tendency to develop a condition. People are born with or acquire this sensitivity very early in life. Vulnerability also refers to what a person has been exposed to early in life, such as exposure to a virus in the womb. Stress or environmental factors can trigger the onset of symptoms. "Stress" refers to the challenges faced in our lives. It is affected by our coping skills, social support, and involvement in meaningful activities.
People with a mental health disorder may be more biologically sensitive to the effects of substances. They may also use substances to cope with symptoms or facilitate social connections. In general, people who have a mental health disorder are at much greater risk of also having a substance use disorder.
It is not known why people become addicted to a certain substance and not another. Some research indicates that access and exposure to substances may be the most important reason. That is, the substances people have access to determine the type of substance use disorder they are likely to develop.
People who have substance use disorders as well as mental health disorders are diagnosed as having co-occurring disorders, or dual disorders. This is also sometimes called a dual diagnosis.
Substance use disorder
A substance use disorder includes
- alcohol or drug abuse
- alcohol or drug dependence
Alcohol or drug dependence is a more severe condition than alcohol or drug abuse. In addition to facing more negative consequences, people with dependence have failed in their attempts to abstain from or control their use of substances. In some cases, physiological dependence may also exist, which is indicated by heightened tolerance (needing more of a substance to get the same effect) and withdrawal (experiencing symptoms such as tremors or nausea when substance use has stopped).
Mental health disorders
Some of the most common mental health disorders found in chemically dependent people include mood- and anxiety disorders. An even higher percentage of people with severe mental illness also have co-occurring substance use disorders. Called severe because of the severity and length of episodes of illness, these mental health disorders include schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. (These latter two disorders with their symptoms of hallucinations or delusions are also sometimes called thought disorders.)
Mood-related disorders
- Major depression
- Dysthymia
- Bipolar disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Schizoaffective disorder
Two entwined problems
Co-occurring disorders can sometimes be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms of substance abuse or addiction can mask symptoms of mental illness, and symptoms of mental illness can be confused with symptoms of addiction. People with mental health disorders sometimes do not address their substance use because they don't believe it is relevant to their problems.
However, some typical patterns do emerge among those with co-occurring disorders:
A worsening of mental health symptoms even while receiving treatment. Those diagnosed with mental health disorders often use substances to feel better. People who are anxious may want something to make them feel calm; people who are depressed may want something to make them feel more animated; people who are fearful of others may want something to make them feel more relaxed and less inhibited; and people who are in psychological pain may want something to make them feel numb.
Using alcohol or other drugs not only fails to repair the mental health disorder but also prevents a person from developing effective coping skills, having satisfying relationships, and feeling comfortable with themselves. Alcohol also interferes with medications prescribed for mental health disorders. In short, drug and alcohol use makes mental health disorders worse.
Alcohol or substance use problems that seem resistant to treatment. People with co-occurring disorders may stop using alcohol or other drugs, but they will find difficulties as the symptoms of their mental health disorders persist. Treatment centers and clinicians and addiction specialists may not be prepared to address both conditions. And some traditional peer recovery groups may insist on abstinence from all drugs - even medications prescribed for mental health disorders. As a result, people with co-occurring disorders find it very difficult to treat their substance-use problems without also treating their mental health disorders.
Integrated Treatment
Although in the past, mental health disorders and addiction problems were often treated separately, we now know that co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders impact one another and must be treated together. Treating just one disorder will not cause the other to automatically improve. And separate, parallel care for the disorders does not result in one, effective treatment plan. To be effective, both disorders must be treated at the same time, in the same place, by the same treatment team. This is called integrated treatment.
How Common Are Co-occurring Disorders?
Being diagnosed with a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder is often referred to as having a dual diagnosis. The disorders together are called dual disorders or co-occurring disorders. Co-occurring disorders are common among people seeking treatment in the mental health or addiction treatment settings.
Although people with this diagnosis may not have received treatment for both disorders, co-occurring disorders are, in fact, common. In a 1990 survey of over 20,000 U.S. adults, over half (53%) of those with a drug use disorder also had a co-occurring mental health disorder. A little over a third (37%) with an alcohol use disorder also had a psychiatric disorder (Regier et al. 1990). Among people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, the rates of co-occurring disorders appear to be even higher. About half of people with these diagnoses also have substance use disorders. According to the 2006 National Survey of Drug Use and Health, 5.6 million people in the United States have co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders.
Causes of co-occurring disorders
There appear to be genetic risk factors for substance use and certain mental health disorders, but genes alone cannot explain all cases of these disorders. Scientists cannot fully explain why some people develop mental health disorders and others do not. One theory that has received support is the stress-vulnerability model. This model holds that both stress and biological vulnerability work together to contribute to symptoms of mental illness.
Biological vulnerability refers to a tendency to develop a condition. People are born with or acquire this sensitivity very early in life. Vulnerability also refers to what a person has been exposed to early in life, such as exposure to a virus in the womb. Stress or environmental factors can trigger the onset of symptoms. "Stress" refers to the challenges faced in our lives. It is affected by our coping skills, social support, and involvement in meaningful activities.
People with a mental health disorder may be more biologically sensitive to the effects of substances. They may also use substances to cope with symptoms or facilitate social connections. In general, people who have a mental health disorder are at much greater risk of also having a substance use disorder.
It is not known why people become addicted to a certain substance and not another. Some research indicates that access and exposure to substances may be the most important reason. That is, the substances people have access to determine the type of substance use disorder they are likely to develop.
Ten things you probably didn't know about Addiction
According to some surveys, almost two-thirds of American families have been significantly impacted in some way by addictions to drugs or alcohol. Virtually everyone knows someone with a drinking or drug problem – a family member, a friend, or a coworker.
Despite this, there are a number of misconceptions and little-known facts about addiction that continue to persist. Understanding is one of the main keys to mitigating the damage that addiction can do.
1. Addiction Is a Disease
Alcoholism was identified as a disease several decades ago, and it is now known that all addictions fall into the same category. Yet, many people still think of addiction as a personal weakness or moral failing.
To be clear – when an addiction is active, the alcoholic/addict has virtually no control over their actions. They are just as much a victim of their disease as is someone with diabetes, cancer, heart disease, or any other chronic condition.
Signs of addiction include:
needing to use more and more of the drug/alcohol to achieve the same effect
anxiety or irritation when the drug/alcohol is not available
constant preoccupation about the drug/alcohol
inability to stop using/drinking, even in the face of negative consequences
hiding or lying about one’s usage
2. Addiction Is a Lonely Disease but Addicts Are Not Alone
Because of the deception and denial that, hand-in-hand with addiction, many substance abusers find themselves separate from those around them. This isolation can exacerbate their problem, because they feel alone and unworthy.
However, addicts are far from alone in their suffering. Some estimates report that up to 23 million Americans have an addiction to drugs or alcohol. What this means is that in response, there is help available everywhere. Even tiny communities will hold 12-Step meetings, and towns of any size whatsoever have access to professional drug rehab programs.
3. Addiction Is Incurable
Addiction is a chronic, progressive disease.
Chronic, because it can never be cured. A person who is addicted will always have to be on guard with their thoughts and actions, lest they suffer a relapse.
Progressive, because unless something is done, the disease invariably worsens, even to the point of being fatal.
There is no such thing as a “recovered” addict or alcoholic. A person who has had a substance abuse problem cannot go back to social drinking or recreational drug use without running the risk of picking up right where they left off.
However, the disease can be managed, in much the same way that other chronic afflictions are. Just as diabetics monitor their blood sugars and make adjustments and people with hypertension reduce their salt intake, addicts too can make changes that will halt their disease’s progression.
Time and therapy will allow them to recover from much of the damage – emotional, spiritual, and physical – that the disease has infected over time.
4. Many Addicts Cannot Feel Normal without Their Drug of Choice
Addiction is a disease of the brain. The brain of someone who is actively addicted to drugs or alcohol will actually undergo physical and chemical changes, and these changes are what makes it so hard to overcome an addiction.
When the substance is ingested, the brain floods the body with pleasure-producing hormones. Over time, that person almost completely loses the ability to produce those hormones naturally. This means that when they aren’t drinking or using, they can’t experience normal pleasure or joy.
When that person enters drug or alcohol rehab and totally abstains, this means that (1) they don’t have the substance that they physically need to feel normal, and (2) they can’t feel normal on their own. This is why withdrawal is such an unpleasant experience – the body no longer knows what to do without the alcohol/drug.
It can take several months for the recovering addict’s brain chemistry to come back into balance.
5. There Is No Such Thing as a “Stereotypical” Addict
For whatever reason, many people still have the mental picture of an addict/alcoholic as homeless, dirty, incoherent, and criminal. While there is no doubt that some substance abusers fit that profile, there are many more who appear outwardly as normal, productive, everyday citizens.
A person can have all the trappings of success – a good job, high income, nice house, seemingly-happy family – and still be lost to the disease of addiction.
Addiction strikes every segment of the population, and it knows no boundaries. Black, white, Asian, Hispanic – rich or poor – professional or blue-collar – anyone can suffer from substance abuse.
In fact, because up to 20% of the US population suffers from a drug or alcohol dependency, high-functioning addicts may even be the rule, rather than the exception.
6. No One Knows Exactly What Causes Addiction
Addiction is a disease with many contributing factors, but no single identifying cause. Some factors that may play a role include:
Genetics – experts believe that up to half of a person’s risk of developing an addiction is due to their own personal genetic predisposition. It is known that individuals who have close family members who have been addicted to drugs or alcohol are much more likely to suffer from a substance abuse disorder at some point in their life.
Trauma – many people who have suffered from some past emotional upheaval or traumatic experience will try to self-medicate in an attempt to feel better.
Family History – individuals who were exposed to drug or alcohol abuse as a child are at high risk of substance abuse when they become adults.
Social pressure – when a person already has a genetic/familial predisposition to addiction and they are exposed to regular usage, it can precipitate a rapid addiction.
Co-occurring mental disorders – conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD can both partially cause and be partially caused by addiction. During treatment, it is important to address both the substance abuse disorder and the simultaneous mental disorder.
Behavior – even when a person believes that they are inviting recreationally or socially, regular, heavy use can result in the brain changes that dictate addictive behavior. In other words, if a person drinks or uses drugs long enough and heavily enough, they will become addicted.
7. Addiction Can Be Fatal, but so Can Unsupervised Recovery
Most people understand that recovery from addiction means abstaining from drinking and using, and that means unpleasant withdrawal, with symptoms such as:
anxiety/irritability
nausea/vomiting/diarrhea
headaches and confusion
wild mood swings
muscle cramps/bodily pain
insomnia
tremors
As bad as all that is, withdrawal from most drugs is not inherently dangerous. Painful? Yes. That’s why it is recommended that when a person quits drugs, they do so in the safe confines of a professional drug detoxification center. The facility’s staff can help ease the worst withdrawal symptoms.
However, in the case of alcohol or benzodiazepine-class of drugs, it is absolutely crucial that the detox take place under medical supervision. Severe withdrawal symptoms from these two substances can be so severe as to be life-threatening. Often, medication must be administered for the patient’s safety.
8. A Person Can Be Addicted to Anything
When talking about addiction, we usually think in terms and focus upon drugs and alcohol, but those are by no means the only types of addiction. A person can be addicted to:
sex
cigarettes
caffeine
gambling
the Internet
video games
shopping
hoarding
Any behavior that disrupts a person’s life and leaves them powerless to stop may qualify as an addiction, and professional intervention and counseling may be necessary.
9. Recovery from Addiction Can Require Drastic Lifestyle Changes
People in recovery for alcoholism or drug addiction learn that in order to stay sober they will have to avoid the people, places, and things that were a regular part of their drinking and drugging lifestyles.
This means that to avoid risking relapse, the recovering alcoholic/addict must stay away from friends and family members who are still actively addicted, find new places to go, and change their behaviors and mindsets.
This can be difficult, but it is often necessary.
10. Recovery from Addiction Is Possible
With proper treatment by trained professionals, it is possible for a person to recover from alcoholism or drug abuse. Addiction is a highly personalized disease, and it will manifest itself differently from individual to individual.
If you or someone you know is suffering from addiction, call 901-382-8106 ext 218.
Source: https://www.northpointrecovery.com/…/10-things-you-probabl…/
According to some surveys, almost two-thirds of American families have been significantly impacted in some way by addictions to drugs or alcohol. Virtually everyone knows someone with a drinking or drug problem – a family member, a friend, or a coworker.
Despite this, there are a number of misconceptions and little-known facts about addiction that continue to persist. Understanding is one of the main keys to mitigating the damage that addiction can do.
1. Addiction Is a Disease
Alcoholism was identified as a disease several decades ago, and it is now known that all addictions fall into the same category. Yet, many people still think of addiction as a personal weakness or moral failing.
To be clear – when an addiction is active, the alcoholic/addict has virtually no control over their actions. They are just as much a victim of their disease as is someone with diabetes, cancer, heart disease, or any other chronic condition.
Signs of addiction include:
needing to use more and more of the drug/alcohol to achieve the same effect
anxiety or irritation when the drug/alcohol is not available
constant preoccupation about the drug/alcohol
inability to stop using/drinking, even in the face of negative consequences
hiding or lying about one’s usage
2. Addiction Is a Lonely Disease but Addicts Are Not Alone
Because of the deception and denial that, hand-in-hand with addiction, many substance abusers find themselves separate from those around them. This isolation can exacerbate their problem, because they feel alone and unworthy.
However, addicts are far from alone in their suffering. Some estimates report that up to 23 million Americans have an addiction to drugs or alcohol. What this means is that in response, there is help available everywhere. Even tiny communities will hold 12-Step meetings, and towns of any size whatsoever have access to professional drug rehab programs.
3. Addiction Is Incurable
Addiction is a chronic, progressive disease.
Chronic, because it can never be cured. A person who is addicted will always have to be on guard with their thoughts and actions, lest they suffer a relapse.
Progressive, because unless something is done, the disease invariably worsens, even to the point of being fatal.
There is no such thing as a “recovered” addict or alcoholic. A person who has had a substance abuse problem cannot go back to social drinking or recreational drug use without running the risk of picking up right where they left off.
However, the disease can be managed, in much the same way that other chronic afflictions are. Just as diabetics monitor their blood sugars and make adjustments and people with hypertension reduce their salt intake, addicts too can make changes that will halt their disease’s progression.
Time and therapy will allow them to recover from much of the damage – emotional, spiritual, and physical – that the disease has infected over time.
4. Many Addicts Cannot Feel Normal without Their Drug of Choice
Addiction is a disease of the brain. The brain of someone who is actively addicted to drugs or alcohol will actually undergo physical and chemical changes, and these changes are what makes it so hard to overcome an addiction.
When the substance is ingested, the brain floods the body with pleasure-producing hormones. Over time, that person almost completely loses the ability to produce those hormones naturally. This means that when they aren’t drinking or using, they can’t experience normal pleasure or joy.
When that person enters drug or alcohol rehab and totally abstains, this means that (1) they don’t have the substance that they physically need to feel normal, and (2) they can’t feel normal on their own. This is why withdrawal is such an unpleasant experience – the body no longer knows what to do without the alcohol/drug.
It can take several months for the recovering addict’s brain chemistry to come back into balance.
5. There Is No Such Thing as a “Stereotypical” Addict
For whatever reason, many people still have the mental picture of an addict/alcoholic as homeless, dirty, incoherent, and criminal. While there is no doubt that some substance abusers fit that profile, there are many more who appear outwardly as normal, productive, everyday citizens.
A person can have all the trappings of success – a good job, high income, nice house, seemingly-happy family – and still be lost to the disease of addiction.
Addiction strikes every segment of the population, and it knows no boundaries. Black, white, Asian, Hispanic – rich or poor – professional or blue-collar – anyone can suffer from substance abuse.
In fact, because up to 20% of the US population suffers from a drug or alcohol dependency, high-functioning addicts may even be the rule, rather than the exception.
6. No One Knows Exactly What Causes Addiction
Addiction is a disease with many contributing factors, but no single identifying cause. Some factors that may play a role include:
Genetics – experts believe that up to half of a person’s risk of developing an addiction is due to their own personal genetic predisposition. It is known that individuals who have close family members who have been addicted to drugs or alcohol are much more likely to suffer from a substance abuse disorder at some point in their life.
Trauma – many people who have suffered from some past emotional upheaval or traumatic experience will try to self-medicate in an attempt to feel better.
Family History – individuals who were exposed to drug or alcohol abuse as a child are at high risk of substance abuse when they become adults.
Social pressure – when a person already has a genetic/familial predisposition to addiction and they are exposed to regular usage, it can precipitate a rapid addiction.
Co-occurring mental disorders – conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD can both partially cause and be partially caused by addiction. During treatment, it is important to address both the substance abuse disorder and the simultaneous mental disorder.
Behavior – even when a person believes that they are inviting recreationally or socially, regular, heavy use can result in the brain changes that dictate addictive behavior. In other words, if a person drinks or uses drugs long enough and heavily enough, they will become addicted.
7. Addiction Can Be Fatal, but so Can Unsupervised Recovery
Most people understand that recovery from addiction means abstaining from drinking and using, and that means unpleasant withdrawal, with symptoms such as:
anxiety/irritability
nausea/vomiting/diarrhea
headaches and confusion
wild mood swings
muscle cramps/bodily pain
insomnia
tremors
As bad as all that is, withdrawal from most drugs is not inherently dangerous. Painful? Yes. That’s why it is recommended that when a person quits drugs, they do so in the safe confines of a professional drug detoxification center. The facility’s staff can help ease the worst withdrawal symptoms.
However, in the case of alcohol or benzodiazepine-class of drugs, it is absolutely crucial that the detox take place under medical supervision. Severe withdrawal symptoms from these two substances can be so severe as to be life-threatening. Often, medication must be administered for the patient’s safety.
8. A Person Can Be Addicted to Anything
When talking about addiction, we usually think in terms and focus upon drugs and alcohol, but those are by no means the only types of addiction. A person can be addicted to:
sex
cigarettes
caffeine
gambling
the Internet
video games
shopping
hoarding
Any behavior that disrupts a person’s life and leaves them powerless to stop may qualify as an addiction, and professional intervention and counseling may be necessary.
9. Recovery from Addiction Can Require Drastic Lifestyle Changes
People in recovery for alcoholism or drug addiction learn that in order to stay sober they will have to avoid the people, places, and things that were a regular part of their drinking and drugging lifestyles.
This means that to avoid risking relapse, the recovering alcoholic/addict must stay away from friends and family members who are still actively addicted, find new places to go, and change their behaviors and mindsets.
This can be difficult, but it is often necessary.
10. Recovery from Addiction Is Possible
With proper treatment by trained professionals, it is possible for a person to recover from alcoholism or drug abuse. Addiction is a highly personalized disease, and it will manifest itself differently from individual to individual.
If you or someone you know is suffering from addiction, call 901-382-8106 ext 218.
Source: https://www.northpointrecovery.com/…/10-things-you-probabl…/
Top 10 Most Common Addictions
Tobacco (nicotine) – Over 40 Million
Nicotine addiction may not appear as harmful as many other addictions. This is likely because tobacco products are legal and easy to get, and the worst side effects of abusing them take time to develop. Tobacco use claims more lives than any any other addictive substance. Many smokers cannot quit despite knowing smoking’s impact on their health. Wanting to quit but being unable to is a telltale sign of addiction.
Alcohol – 18 Million
The social acceptance of drinking can make alcohol addiction hard to spot. Despite its legal status, alcohol’s potential for abuse opens users up to many health risks and possible addiction.
Alcohol abuse has numerous negative consequences. In addition to deaths from liver disease and alcohol overdose, drunk driving claims thousands of lives every year.
Marijuana – 4.2 Million
The legalization of marijuana in some states has made the drug’s use more socially acceptable. This trend can distract people from marijuana’s addictive potential. Rates of marijuana addiction might also be growing due to increasing potency (over 60 percent) over the past decade.
Painkillers – 1.8 Million
Drugs like codeine, Vicodin and Oxycontin are commonly prescribed to treat pain. Painkillers’ prescription status does not mean they aren’t addictive. Addiction to painkillers can develop from seemingly harmless levels of use. Most patients who become addicted to prescription painkillers don’t notice they have a problem until they try to stop use. Painkillers are also abused without a prescription, which can also lead to an addiction.
Cocaine – 821,000
Rates of cocaine addiction in the United States are dropping. The decline is slow, however, with an estimated 821,000 Americans still addicted as of 2011. Crack cocaine, which is cheaper and more intense than regular cocaine, is responsible for many crippling addictions and ruined lives.
Heroin – 426,000
Heroin’s severe withdrawal symptoms make beating a heroin addiction a difficult task. Treating heroin addiction typically requires a combination of therapy and medications to help manage symptoms of withdrawal and cravings.
Heroin abuse has been growing in the United States, particularly among young women. There is growing concern over heroin users contracting and spreading diseases like HIV and AIDS by sharing needles for injection.
Benzodiazepines – 400,000
“Benzos” — such as Valium, Xanax, Diazepam and Klonopin — are prescribed as mood-regulating drugs to manage conditions like anxiety and stress. Those developing an addiction to these drugs oftentimes aren’t aware until they can’t function normally without the substance.
Benzodiazepines are especially dangerous because of their powerful impact on the brain’s chemical makeup. Withdrawals can be deadly without medical assistance during detox.
Stimulants – 329,000
Stimulants range from prescription drugs, such as Adderall or Ritalin, to illicit substances like meth. These drugs are highly addictive, and intense withdrawal symptoms make quitting difficult. Stimulant users can quickly build a tolerance to the drug’s euphoric “high,” leading to increased use and risk of overdose.
Inhalants – 140,000
Inhalant addiction is particularly dangerous because inhalants are volatile toxic substances. The effects of these substances — gasoline, household cleaning products, aerosols — are intense and can have immediate consequences including hospitalization or death. Chemicals prevalent in inhalants can linger in the body and brain long after stopping use, making complete recovery more difficult.
Sedatives (barbiturates) – 78,000
Millions of Americans are prescribed barbiturate sedatives, commonly known as sleeping pills, to treat tension and sleep disorders. Every year, thousands of prescription users build a tolerance — and ensuing addiction — to drugs like Lunesta and Ambien. Sleeping pills can produce mind-altering effects that lead to continued abuse.
(Source: https://www.addictioncenter.com/…/10-most-common-addictions/)
Tobacco (nicotine) – Over 40 Million
Nicotine addiction may not appear as harmful as many other addictions. This is likely because tobacco products are legal and easy to get, and the worst side effects of abusing them take time to develop. Tobacco use claims more lives than any any other addictive substance. Many smokers cannot quit despite knowing smoking’s impact on their health. Wanting to quit but being unable to is a telltale sign of addiction.
Alcohol – 18 Million
The social acceptance of drinking can make alcohol addiction hard to spot. Despite its legal status, alcohol’s potential for abuse opens users up to many health risks and possible addiction.
Alcohol abuse has numerous negative consequences. In addition to deaths from liver disease and alcohol overdose, drunk driving claims thousands of lives every year.
Marijuana – 4.2 Million
The legalization of marijuana in some states has made the drug’s use more socially acceptable. This trend can distract people from marijuana’s addictive potential. Rates of marijuana addiction might also be growing due to increasing potency (over 60 percent) over the past decade.
Painkillers – 1.8 Million
Drugs like codeine, Vicodin and Oxycontin are commonly prescribed to treat pain. Painkillers’ prescription status does not mean they aren’t addictive. Addiction to painkillers can develop from seemingly harmless levels of use. Most patients who become addicted to prescription painkillers don’t notice they have a problem until they try to stop use. Painkillers are also abused without a prescription, which can also lead to an addiction.
Cocaine – 821,000
Rates of cocaine addiction in the United States are dropping. The decline is slow, however, with an estimated 821,000 Americans still addicted as of 2011. Crack cocaine, which is cheaper and more intense than regular cocaine, is responsible for many crippling addictions and ruined lives.
Heroin – 426,000
Heroin’s severe withdrawal symptoms make beating a heroin addiction a difficult task. Treating heroin addiction typically requires a combination of therapy and medications to help manage symptoms of withdrawal and cravings.
Heroin abuse has been growing in the United States, particularly among young women. There is growing concern over heroin users contracting and spreading diseases like HIV and AIDS by sharing needles for injection.
Benzodiazepines – 400,000
“Benzos” — such as Valium, Xanax, Diazepam and Klonopin — are prescribed as mood-regulating drugs to manage conditions like anxiety and stress. Those developing an addiction to these drugs oftentimes aren’t aware until they can’t function normally without the substance.
Benzodiazepines are especially dangerous because of their powerful impact on the brain’s chemical makeup. Withdrawals can be deadly without medical assistance during detox.
Stimulants – 329,000
Stimulants range from prescription drugs, such as Adderall or Ritalin, to illicit substances like meth. These drugs are highly addictive, and intense withdrawal symptoms make quitting difficult. Stimulant users can quickly build a tolerance to the drug’s euphoric “high,” leading to increased use and risk of overdose.
Inhalants – 140,000
Inhalant addiction is particularly dangerous because inhalants are volatile toxic substances. The effects of these substances — gasoline, household cleaning products, aerosols — are intense and can have immediate consequences including hospitalization or death. Chemicals prevalent in inhalants can linger in the body and brain long after stopping use, making complete recovery more difficult.
Sedatives (barbiturates) – 78,000
Millions of Americans are prescribed barbiturate sedatives, commonly known as sleeping pills, to treat tension and sleep disorders. Every year, thousands of prescription users build a tolerance — and ensuing addiction — to drugs like Lunesta and Ambien. Sleeping pills can produce mind-altering effects that lead to continued abuse.
(Source: https://www.addictioncenter.com/…/10-most-common-addictions/)
Day 5 | Finding Hope & Healing
Drug addiction can’t be wished away or banished by sheer willpower. Those who suffer from chemical dependency need trained, expert assistance from addiction specialists who rely on the latest in evidence-based medicine to treat this dangerous condition.
We believe God can bring peace and healing to seemingly impossible situations. We believe there is hope for everyone, and every follower of Christ has an obligation to use their gifts to help improve the lives of others. Our programs include transitional housing, drug and alcohol recovery support, transportation, and a back-to-work program that prepares individuals to re-enter the workforce and pairs them with local employers who give them a chance to prove themselves.
Our program is intended to help individuals overcome addiction and return to their home communities sober, employed, capable of independent housing, and engaged in helping others as they were once helped. We believe we can help people re-enter society after imprisonment and make a meaningful contribution to their communities, and, over time, regain the trust of others. Our vision is to one day expand our Nehemiah Program to cities across the United States, as well as worldwide.
If you or someone you know needs to find hope & healing please contact us. You can call 901-382-8106 ext 218
Drug addiction can’t be wished away or banished by sheer willpower. Those who suffer from chemical dependency need trained, expert assistance from addiction specialists who rely on the latest in evidence-based medicine to treat this dangerous condition.
We believe God can bring peace and healing to seemingly impossible situations. We believe there is hope for everyone, and every follower of Christ has an obligation to use their gifts to help improve the lives of others. Our programs include transitional housing, drug and alcohol recovery support, transportation, and a back-to-work program that prepares individuals to re-enter the workforce and pairs them with local employers who give them a chance to prove themselves.
Our program is intended to help individuals overcome addiction and return to their home communities sober, employed, capable of independent housing, and engaged in helping others as they were once helped. We believe we can help people re-enter society after imprisonment and make a meaningful contribution to their communities, and, over time, regain the trust of others. Our vision is to one day expand our Nehemiah Program to cities across the United States, as well as worldwide.
If you or someone you know needs to find hope & healing please contact us. You can call 901-382-8106 ext 218
Day 4 | The Effect of Drug Addiction on Family & Friends
As they track the descent of their loved one into drug addiction, family members and friends often experience the same emotions as the addict: anger, fear, guilt, helplessness, depression, and resignation. Addiction is an anchor on the families it affects, leaving them adrift in hostile and unfamiliar seas with safe land nowhere in sight.
Uncertainty about the future is another emotion experienced by the loved ones of drug addicts, and that uncertainty can at times be difficult to endure. Drug addiction can be a fatal illness, and people who live with or love drug addicts can never really be sure about what news the next phone call or knock at the door will bring. Living with an addict produces constant insecurity, accompanied by anxiety that never fully relents.
Some drug addicts can become emotionally or physically hostile while under the influence, and it can be highly stressful—or even dangerous—for spouses or children who must deal with that explosive and unpredictable temperament. Drug addicts can sometimes become involved with unsavory people, and having these individuals around can add to the stress and fear loved ones are already experiencing.
The damage done by drug addiction can be subtle yet pervasive. The addiction distorts everyone’s life it touches, manipulating their emotions and crushing their hopes time and time again. For the family members and close friends of an addict, nothing will ever be the same as long as drugs continue to exert their pernicious influence.
(Credit: Alta Mira)
As they track the descent of their loved one into drug addiction, family members and friends often experience the same emotions as the addict: anger, fear, guilt, helplessness, depression, and resignation. Addiction is an anchor on the families it affects, leaving them adrift in hostile and unfamiliar seas with safe land nowhere in sight.
Uncertainty about the future is another emotion experienced by the loved ones of drug addicts, and that uncertainty can at times be difficult to endure. Drug addiction can be a fatal illness, and people who live with or love drug addicts can never really be sure about what news the next phone call or knock at the door will bring. Living with an addict produces constant insecurity, accompanied by anxiety that never fully relents.
Some drug addicts can become emotionally or physically hostile while under the influence, and it can be highly stressful—or even dangerous—for spouses or children who must deal with that explosive and unpredictable temperament. Drug addicts can sometimes become involved with unsavory people, and having these individuals around can add to the stress and fear loved ones are already experiencing.
The damage done by drug addiction can be subtle yet pervasive. The addiction distorts everyone’s life it touches, manipulating their emotions and crushing their hopes time and time again. For the family members and close friends of an addict, nothing will ever be the same as long as drugs continue to exert their pernicious influence.
(Credit: Alta Mira)
Day 3 - The Emotional Life of a Drug Addict
When someone becomes addicted to any type of illicit drug, or to prescription medications they’ve misused, it plays havoc with their emotional stability. They may have turned to drugs to help them escape or forget troubling feelings, but their dependency has its own unique impact on their emotional wellbeing.
Some of the emotional reactions created bysubstance abuse include:
- Guilt. Denial aside, addicts are usually aware of the stress and heartache their behavior causes for their loved ones, and their guilt at not being able to stop using can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, guilt and shame chip away at a person’s self-esteem, and a lack of self-esteem can make it more difficult for addicts to find the courage to quit using drugs.
- Fear. People with drug addictions fear the stigma of exposure, and the possible loss of relationships, employment, and sense of personal dignity that can result from others discovering the truth. Ultimately, their greatest fear is that they’ll lose everything they value most, including their own health and freedom.
- Helplessness. Most drug addicts try to quit on their own many times but are unable to make sobriety stick. After a while they begin to feel helpless against their addiction, which is yet another emotion that damages their self-esteem and feelings of personal power.
- Depression. Drug abuse haunts those it affects. It prevents them from achieving their goals, meeting their personal responsibilities, and controlling their fate. All of this can contribute to feelings of deep sadness and depression, and the changes in the brain caused by drug abuse can bring on or reinforce depression as well.
- Anger. Drug addicts are angry at themselves for their behavior, angry at others who try to confront them about that behavior, and angry at the world for abandoning them and leaving them without hope for a better future.
- Resignation. At a certain point, many drug addicts simply give up on themselves and their lives. This is an especially perilous stage of addiction, and it is imperative that people who’ve reached these depths get some kind of help quickly, before they drown in their own despair.
(Credit - Alta Mira)
When someone becomes addicted to any type of illicit drug, or to prescription medications they’ve misused, it plays havoc with their emotional stability. They may have turned to drugs to help them escape or forget troubling feelings, but their dependency has its own unique impact on their emotional wellbeing.
Some of the emotional reactions created bysubstance abuse include:
- Guilt. Denial aside, addicts are usually aware of the stress and heartache their behavior causes for their loved ones, and their guilt at not being able to stop using can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, guilt and shame chip away at a person’s self-esteem, and a lack of self-esteem can make it more difficult for addicts to find the courage to quit using drugs.
- Fear. People with drug addictions fear the stigma of exposure, and the possible loss of relationships, employment, and sense of personal dignity that can result from others discovering the truth. Ultimately, their greatest fear is that they’ll lose everything they value most, including their own health and freedom.
- Helplessness. Most drug addicts try to quit on their own many times but are unable to make sobriety stick. After a while they begin to feel helpless against their addiction, which is yet another emotion that damages their self-esteem and feelings of personal power.
- Depression. Drug abuse haunts those it affects. It prevents them from achieving their goals, meeting their personal responsibilities, and controlling their fate. All of this can contribute to feelings of deep sadness and depression, and the changes in the brain caused by drug abuse can bring on or reinforce depression as well.
- Anger. Drug addicts are angry at themselves for their behavior, angry at others who try to confront them about that behavior, and angry at the world for abandoning them and leaving them without hope for a better future.
- Resignation. At a certain point, many drug addicts simply give up on themselves and their lives. This is an especially perilous stage of addiction, and it is imperative that people who’ve reached these depths get some kind of help quickly, before they drown in their own despair.
(Credit - Alta Mira)
Oftentimes, people are driven to excessive use and abuse of drugs by a desire to escape or forget. They may have suffered some type of trauma in the past, or may be undergoing some trauma in the present, that leaves them plagued by feelings of stress and anxiety.
Some of the common emotional risk factors for drug addiction include:
Being subjected to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in childhood
Exposure to distant or neglectful parenting styles
Multiple instances of being bullied
Being a victim of domestic abuse
Suffering through a natural disaster, possibly involving a loss of life
Losing a loved one to death, divorce, or desertion
People who’ve been through such experiences may feel guilt or shame if they somehow blame themselves for the abuse they suffered or the loss they experienced, or the circumstances they created that led to the emotional injuries.
Drug addiction can easily develop among people using illicit substances to numb their pre-existing emotional pain, but this is not a strategy that will work for long (if it works at all). Eventually, tolerance for the drug advances, and users have to take more and more of their substance of choice to experience the same effects—which is the primary reason why these substances are so addictive.
Another problem is that drugs themselves create fresh chemical imbalances in the brain—or reinforce the old ones—which can lead to increased emotional instability. The person may have initially turned to drugs to help them forget or suppress their memories and the feelings of anxiety or worthlessness that accompany them. But once someone develops a drug abuse problem, they can experience dramatic mood swings that cause buried feelings of low self-esteem and low self-confidence to come bubbling to the surface, often with overwhelming intensity.
About 40 percent of people with substance use disorders also suffer from at least one form of mental illness (the percentages may be higher with some drugs). Mood and anxiety disorders are especially common among drug addicts, and the turbulent or disabling emotions they produce explain why many sufferers choose to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.
(Credit source - Alta Mira)
Some of the common emotional risk factors for drug addiction include:
Being subjected to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse in childhood
Exposure to distant or neglectful parenting styles
Multiple instances of being bullied
Being a victim of domestic abuse
Suffering through a natural disaster, possibly involving a loss of life
Losing a loved one to death, divorce, or desertion
People who’ve been through such experiences may feel guilt or shame if they somehow blame themselves for the abuse they suffered or the loss they experienced, or the circumstances they created that led to the emotional injuries.
Drug addiction can easily develop among people using illicit substances to numb their pre-existing emotional pain, but this is not a strategy that will work for long (if it works at all). Eventually, tolerance for the drug advances, and users have to take more and more of their substance of choice to experience the same effects—which is the primary reason why these substances are so addictive.
Another problem is that drugs themselves create fresh chemical imbalances in the brain—or reinforce the old ones—which can lead to increased emotional instability. The person may have initially turned to drugs to help them forget or suppress their memories and the feelings of anxiety or worthlessness that accompany them. But once someone develops a drug abuse problem, they can experience dramatic mood swings that cause buried feelings of low self-esteem and low self-confidence to come bubbling to the surface, often with overwhelming intensity.
About 40 percent of people with substance use disorders also suffer from at least one form of mental illness (the percentages may be higher with some drugs). Mood and anxiety disorders are especially common among drug addicts, and the turbulent or disabling emotions they produce explain why many sufferers choose to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.
(Credit source - Alta Mira)
This week we will cover The Emotional Impact of Drug Addiction
Day 1
Drug addiction exacts an emotional toll on sufferers and their family members. Addiction grows in a bed of pre-existing emotional turmoil, and the feelings of anxiety, shame, guilt, and worthlessness that increase risk for addiction will only become worse as the chemical dependency deepens. Drug abuse also creates fresh emotional complications for everyone it affects. Emotional pain and disruption is inevitable for drug addicts and their loved ones, and only through treatment and recovery can families escape the pernicious effects of chemical dependency.
Drug addiction is a physical disorder with profound emotional ramifications and dimensions. More than seven million Americans are dependent on some type of illicit drug or misused medication, and the effects of their addiction are like ripples in a pond, spreading outward to cause pain and misery for everyone in the addict’s social and family circles.
The emotional devastation of drug addiction is experienced most directly and acutely by addicts themselves. But spouses, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, extended family members, and close friends also feel addiction’s impact, and their emotional reactions range across a broad landscape of pain, stress, and discouragement.
Credit source: Alta Mira
Day 1
Drug addiction exacts an emotional toll on sufferers and their family members. Addiction grows in a bed of pre-existing emotional turmoil, and the feelings of anxiety, shame, guilt, and worthlessness that increase risk for addiction will only become worse as the chemical dependency deepens. Drug abuse also creates fresh emotional complications for everyone it affects. Emotional pain and disruption is inevitable for drug addicts and their loved ones, and only through treatment and recovery can families escape the pernicious effects of chemical dependency.
Drug addiction is a physical disorder with profound emotional ramifications and dimensions. More than seven million Americans are dependent on some type of illicit drug or misused medication, and the effects of their addiction are like ripples in a pond, spreading outward to cause pain and misery for everyone in the addict’s social and family circles.
The emotional devastation of drug addiction is experienced most directly and acutely by addicts themselves. But spouses, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, extended family members, and close friends also feel addiction’s impact, and their emotional reactions range across a broad landscape of pain, stress, and discouragement.
Credit source: Alta Mira
"You will need to take a step back for them to be able to move forward"
Family members should be prepared for what to expect with their loved one during the first 30 days. Continuing to be an enabler may hinder their progress. Many enablers have a co-dependent relationship with their addicted loved one. They may be people who feel the need to solve problems that aren’t theirs to solve, or people who need to feel needed. Things quickly go south for both the addict and the enabler. Remember we are here to help them through their struggles during this time and want the transition to go as smoothly as it can. You will need to take a step back for them to be able to move forward.
You can expect to hear pleas to leave, promises to abstain, how difficult it is, and other requests and/or complaints as well. This is natural! Overcoming addiction and coming to grips with the psychological need to use is tough work. Treatment isn’t a walk in the park, but is necessary to overcome addiction. Denial, resistance, rationalization, lack of motivation, inability to effectively communicate – all of these may be hurdles your loved one needs to overcome.
Keep in mind that some clients adapt quickly, fully committed to doing whatever it takes to overcome addiction. Others take longer. No two clients’ journey will be the same. Support is the best thing that you can provide for your loved one as they go through our program.
Family members should be prepared for what to expect with their loved one during the first 30 days. Continuing to be an enabler may hinder their progress. Many enablers have a co-dependent relationship with their addicted loved one. They may be people who feel the need to solve problems that aren’t theirs to solve, or people who need to feel needed. Things quickly go south for both the addict and the enabler. Remember we are here to help them through their struggles during this time and want the transition to go as smoothly as it can. You will need to take a step back for them to be able to move forward.
You can expect to hear pleas to leave, promises to abstain, how difficult it is, and other requests and/or complaints as well. This is natural! Overcoming addiction and coming to grips with the psychological need to use is tough work. Treatment isn’t a walk in the park, but is necessary to overcome addiction. Denial, resistance, rationalization, lack of motivation, inability to effectively communicate – all of these may be hurdles your loved one needs to overcome.
Keep in mind that some clients adapt quickly, fully committed to doing whatever it takes to overcome addiction. Others take longer. No two clients’ journey will be the same. Support is the best thing that you can provide for your loved one as they go through our program.
The Great Debate
For centuries, addiction to alcohol and drugs has been seen as a moral failing. The person addicted was viewed as lacking in willpower. But while that view is still held by some individuals, a new model for understanding addiction has risen to the forefront in the scientific community. The reality is that addiction is a disease, and the research is there to support it.
What is addiction and is it a choice?
According to DrugAbuse.gov, “Addiction is a chronic, often relapsing brain disease that causes compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences to the addicted individual and to those around him or her.” The key here is that the addicted person will continue using even when they see the harm their addiction is causing. They know it’s bad for them, and they don’t want to be addicted. But addiction is characterized by the inability to stop.
Why is addiction considered a disease?
Drug addiction follows a similar pattern to other chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes. The patient will go into remission, but may have several relapses before beating the disease entirely. And like these diseases, addiction too can be treated and managed. Many people who combat the disease model of addiction will make the point that the addicted person chooses to start using drugs or alcohol. This is true, but beside the point. Once they begin using, the addiction takes on a life of its own and is much harder to control.
Addiction is also considered a disease because it can cause changes to the brain. Not only does it create a physical dependency in which the individual cannot stop taking the substance without experiencing withdrawals, but it also affects the individual’s ability to make reasonable decisions.
What this means to the addict
Why is it so important to recognize addiction as a disease? The answer is that the way we view a condition heavily influences the way we treat those who have it. When you learn that addiction is a disease, the truths become clear.
It’s not all about willpower
When a person loses their life to a drug addiction, someone undoubtedly says something along the lines of “they made their choice.” While there is an element of choice involved, making the right choice is so much harder for someone with an addiction. The vast majority of addicted individuals are not addicted because they want to be, but because they feel they need the substance. And in many cases, their bodies are so dependent on the substance that they really do.
Credit source: https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/recovery-blog/drug-addiction-disease-choice/?fbclid=IwAR0PQbQLo3P1DggrAxj2NEiuhxXeblVFJoQENfLrACx4-6tn8duJfaXpB_k#gref
For centuries, addiction to alcohol and drugs has been seen as a moral failing. The person addicted was viewed as lacking in willpower. But while that view is still held by some individuals, a new model for understanding addiction has risen to the forefront in the scientific community. The reality is that addiction is a disease, and the research is there to support it.
What is addiction and is it a choice?
According to DrugAbuse.gov, “Addiction is a chronic, often relapsing brain disease that causes compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences to the addicted individual and to those around him or her.” The key here is that the addicted person will continue using even when they see the harm their addiction is causing. They know it’s bad for them, and they don’t want to be addicted. But addiction is characterized by the inability to stop.
Why is addiction considered a disease?
Drug addiction follows a similar pattern to other chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes. The patient will go into remission, but may have several relapses before beating the disease entirely. And like these diseases, addiction too can be treated and managed. Many people who combat the disease model of addiction will make the point that the addicted person chooses to start using drugs or alcohol. This is true, but beside the point. Once they begin using, the addiction takes on a life of its own and is much harder to control.
Addiction is also considered a disease because it can cause changes to the brain. Not only does it create a physical dependency in which the individual cannot stop taking the substance without experiencing withdrawals, but it also affects the individual’s ability to make reasonable decisions.
What this means to the addict
Why is it so important to recognize addiction as a disease? The answer is that the way we view a condition heavily influences the way we treat those who have it. When you learn that addiction is a disease, the truths become clear.
It’s not all about willpower
When a person loses their life to a drug addiction, someone undoubtedly says something along the lines of “they made their choice.” While there is an element of choice involved, making the right choice is so much harder for someone with an addiction. The vast majority of addicted individuals are not addicted because they want to be, but because they feel they need the substance. And in many cases, their bodies are so dependent on the substance that they really do.
Credit source: https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/recovery-blog/drug-addiction-disease-choice/?fbclid=IwAR0PQbQLo3P1DggrAxj2NEiuhxXeblVFJoQENfLrACx4-6tn8duJfaXpB_k#gref
Are you enabling an addict? If you notice these behaviors in yourself or a loved one, then know that they may enable addiction.
- Ignoring the addict’s negative or potentially dangerous behavior – This behavior can involve anything from overlooking problems to denying that a problem even exists.
- Difficulty expressing emotions – Enablers are often unsure how to express their feelings, especially if there are negative repercussions for doing so.
- Prioritizing the addict’s needs before her own – While it is natural to want to help loved ones, enabling takes helping a step too far, where the addict has her needs taken care of while the enabler neglects her own.
- Acting out of fear – Since addiction can cause frightening events, the enabler will do whatever it takes to avoid such situations.
- Lying to others to cover the addict’s behavior – An enabler will lie to keep the peace and to present a controlled, calm exterior.
- Blaming people or situations other than the addict – To protect the addict from the consequences of drug abuse, the enabler might accuse other people of causing drug abuse.
- Resenting the addict – The result of the above behaviors is that the enabler will likely feel angry and hurt. She may act on these feelings by resenting the addict all while continuing to enable the addiction.
- Leave messes as they are - Leave the addict to clean up the messes she makes while intoxicated
- Weigh your options for short-term and long-term pain - Will helping the addict one more time cause more pain in the long run?
- Get back autonomy - When possible, you should not allow the addict to put you in situations which may endanger yourself or others
- Follow through with plans - Even if the addict refuses to participate in a planned activity, you should go through with it without them
People in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction need to take steps to protect their sobriety every single day. This often involves severing ties with people who drink or use drugs, even if they're longtime friends or family. Continuing friendships or relationships with active substance abusers can put you in very difficult situations that trigger cravings and lead to relapse.
Cutting ties is another part of recovery that you will have to face, but surrounding yourself with the right people and support will help you stay on the new path you have started.
Cutting ties is another part of recovery that you will have to face, but surrounding yourself with the right people and support will help you stay on the new path you have started.
“Why can’t you just stop using?”
“You need to be stronger to resist doing drugs.”
“Just use your willpower and you can stop.”
These are just some of the statements that those suffering from addiction often hear from others. There is a misconception that a person who continues to give in to their temptations to use drugs or alcohol is “weak” or has no willpower. But that is not necessarily true.
In fact, relying on willpower alone is simply not enough to fight the power of addiction. Many may believe that willpower is at the crux of beating addiction, but it can actually make things worse in many situations.
For starters, addiction is not a choice. People who develop a substance use disorder do not willingly do so. Somewhere along the line of using, choice disappears, and willpower no longer has an influence on whether or not a person can stop using. Further, willpower can actually push any underlying trauma down, which can make it even more difficult to overcome addiction. Substance use disorder often stems from some sort of trauma that the person experienced in the past, and drugs or alcohol are often turned to in an effort to numb any negative feelings as a result. Willpower can actually cause a person to suppress these traumatic feelings and memories, which can make the addiction even worse.Without dealing with trauma in a healthy way and exposing the issues that have caused addiction in the first place, recovery is much more of a challenge and people stay buried in their addiction.
Addiction to drugs or alcohol changes a person’s brain pathways. After a long period of time of heavily using drugs or alcohol, it can be nearly impossible to reverse these changes without proper medical intervention and cognitive support. When someone is fighting addiction, it is not enough to rely on willpower. What they need is an effective addiction treatment program that can help them safely and effectively detox and build the tools needed to achieve and maintain sobriety.
If you are tired of being a slave to your addiction, there is help! You do not need to do this alone. With the right support and guidance, you can be free of living in bondage to go on to live an addiction-free, fulfilling life.
If you are ready to start living a life free of bondage call 901-382-8106 ext 218 or message our page.
Article source: https://www.columbusrecoverycenter.com/blog/is-willpower-enough-to-fight-addiction/?fbclid=IwAR13qkuedZJgxZ17y1BG2ycfyXA2ddGxJCc3Jjn-dHqaHuWXxDUTQ7asZl8
“You need to be stronger to resist doing drugs.”
“Just use your willpower and you can stop.”
These are just some of the statements that those suffering from addiction often hear from others. There is a misconception that a person who continues to give in to their temptations to use drugs or alcohol is “weak” or has no willpower. But that is not necessarily true.
In fact, relying on willpower alone is simply not enough to fight the power of addiction. Many may believe that willpower is at the crux of beating addiction, but it can actually make things worse in many situations.
For starters, addiction is not a choice. People who develop a substance use disorder do not willingly do so. Somewhere along the line of using, choice disappears, and willpower no longer has an influence on whether or not a person can stop using. Further, willpower can actually push any underlying trauma down, which can make it even more difficult to overcome addiction. Substance use disorder often stems from some sort of trauma that the person experienced in the past, and drugs or alcohol are often turned to in an effort to numb any negative feelings as a result. Willpower can actually cause a person to suppress these traumatic feelings and memories, which can make the addiction even worse.Without dealing with trauma in a healthy way and exposing the issues that have caused addiction in the first place, recovery is much more of a challenge and people stay buried in their addiction.
Addiction to drugs or alcohol changes a person’s brain pathways. After a long period of time of heavily using drugs or alcohol, it can be nearly impossible to reverse these changes without proper medical intervention and cognitive support. When someone is fighting addiction, it is not enough to rely on willpower. What they need is an effective addiction treatment program that can help them safely and effectively detox and build the tools needed to achieve and maintain sobriety.
If you are tired of being a slave to your addiction, there is help! You do not need to do this alone. With the right support and guidance, you can be free of living in bondage to go on to live an addiction-free, fulfilling life.
If you are ready to start living a life free of bondage call 901-382-8106 ext 218 or message our page.
Article source: https://www.columbusrecoverycenter.com/blog/is-willpower-enough-to-fight-addiction/?fbclid=IwAR13qkuedZJgxZ17y1BG2ycfyXA2ddGxJCc3Jjn-dHqaHuWXxDUTQ7asZl8
6 Effective Methods To Talk To A Loved One About Their Addiction
Watching a loved one endure addiction can be terrifying and taking action to talk about it can be just as nerve-wracking. It may feel like you’re walking on eggshells around them, or that the pink elephant in the middle of the room is staring you down. You probably feel angry, confused, frustrated, scared and hopeless as you see them drudge down a dark road of despair. The good news is, you’re not alone and many others have come before you. The bad news is there’s no easy way to do it.
Use “I” statements
Symptoms of drug or alcohol use are not only physical but emotional, and defenses can rise when bringing up a double life that someone may or may not be hiding.
“I” statements can make a world of difference and will have you take responsibility of your emotions. They can change the entire tone of a conversation without placing direct blame on the person. This can soften the rhetoric and shift the focus from them to you, emphasizing your feelings and emotions rather than pointing fingers. Understanding things from your perspective can possibly plant the seed to help the addict see things a certain way.
Here are a couple of examples:
“You make me upset when you drink.” VS “I feel concerned when you drink.”
“You need to go to treatment.” VS “I feel frustrated that you won’t accept help.”
“You are killing yourself” VS “I feel angry watching you hurt yourself.”
Listen effectively
Addiction is on the rise and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, “drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the U.S.” The conversation that you have with your loved one can be potentially life-saving, and even the non-verbal behavior you display can be pivotal. Listening can be an art in itself and in today’s world genuine listening is rare. Here are a few to powerful ways to make the most of it:
Maintain a positive posture
Keep eye contact
Listen to the words and picture what the speaker is saying
Accept the ideas and feelings of the person
Don’t interrupt or jump to conclusions
Ask questions to better understand
Keep your cool
Tread lightly!
One of the most powerful tools we use instinctively is “mirroring.” Mirroring is a social phenomenon that happens when one person subconsciously imitates the gesture, speech, or attitude of another person. If someone smiles at you, chances are, you’ll smile back, right? This is a prime example of mirroring. You as well as your loved one are in a vulnerable state and if you go into things as a ball of anxiety, chances are the person will be able to subconsciously recognize that and things could escalate. We all play off each other’s emotions, and some addicts can do this like an Olympic sport.
Have a plan
Make sure you talk to your loved one at a time when they are sober and be prepared to take action!
If the person you’re talking to is receptive to your thoughts and concerns, have a plan. It is encouraged to seek the help of professionals when dealing with such an undertaking, so it may be wise to have a couple of treatment centers or the location of a 12-step meeting on hand.
If the person is not receptive to your feedback, have another plan.
A good start would be setting boundaries. Boundaries establish guidelines for suitable behavior and actions, and in this case, your loved one’s substance abuse. Sometimes boundaries can help a person get to their “bottom” and increase the chances of them getting help. These can be easy to set, however putting them to practical use is the tough part. As long as they continue to use it is important that these boundaries are set to so you can get off your emotional roller-coaster ride.
Here are a couple of sample boundaries you could use:
“I will not allow you to live here if you continue to use.”
“I will not give you any more money.”
“I will not bail you out of jail again.”
“I will not support you in your addiction, but I will support you in your recovery.”
Don’t take it personally
“Hurt people hurt people” and if there is a negative reaction, it has nothing to do with you. If the conversation doesn’t end well and you’ve been open and honest with your emotions, you did what you intended to do.
Take care of yourself
Addiction is a family disease that can wreak havoc on all lives it touches, and if you’re close with the addict, there’s no doubt you may have been exposed to lying, cheating, or manipulative schemes. It can take a toll on your well emotional well-being and sometimes feels like you care more about your loved one than they do themselves. It would be wise to seek outside support such as therapists, or support groups like Al-Anon. Just like the addict needs to recover, so do you!
Watching a loved one endure addiction can be terrifying and taking action to talk about it can be just as nerve-wracking. It may feel like you’re walking on eggshells around them, or that the pink elephant in the middle of the room is staring you down. You probably feel angry, confused, frustrated, scared and hopeless as you see them drudge down a dark road of despair. The good news is, you’re not alone and many others have come before you. The bad news is there’s no easy way to do it.
Use “I” statements
Symptoms of drug or alcohol use are not only physical but emotional, and defenses can rise when bringing up a double life that someone may or may not be hiding.
“I” statements can make a world of difference and will have you take responsibility of your emotions. They can change the entire tone of a conversation without placing direct blame on the person. This can soften the rhetoric and shift the focus from them to you, emphasizing your feelings and emotions rather than pointing fingers. Understanding things from your perspective can possibly plant the seed to help the addict see things a certain way.
Here are a couple of examples:
“You make me upset when you drink.” VS “I feel concerned when you drink.”
“You need to go to treatment.” VS “I feel frustrated that you won’t accept help.”
“You are killing yourself” VS “I feel angry watching you hurt yourself.”
Listen effectively
Addiction is on the rise and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, “drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the U.S.” The conversation that you have with your loved one can be potentially life-saving, and even the non-verbal behavior you display can be pivotal. Listening can be an art in itself and in today’s world genuine listening is rare. Here are a few to powerful ways to make the most of it:
Maintain a positive posture
Keep eye contact
Listen to the words and picture what the speaker is saying
Accept the ideas and feelings of the person
Don’t interrupt or jump to conclusions
Ask questions to better understand
Keep your cool
Tread lightly!
One of the most powerful tools we use instinctively is “mirroring.” Mirroring is a social phenomenon that happens when one person subconsciously imitates the gesture, speech, or attitude of another person. If someone smiles at you, chances are, you’ll smile back, right? This is a prime example of mirroring. You as well as your loved one are in a vulnerable state and if you go into things as a ball of anxiety, chances are the person will be able to subconsciously recognize that and things could escalate. We all play off each other’s emotions, and some addicts can do this like an Olympic sport.
Have a plan
Make sure you talk to your loved one at a time when they are sober and be prepared to take action!
If the person you’re talking to is receptive to your thoughts and concerns, have a plan. It is encouraged to seek the help of professionals when dealing with such an undertaking, so it may be wise to have a couple of treatment centers or the location of a 12-step meeting on hand.
If the person is not receptive to your feedback, have another plan.
A good start would be setting boundaries. Boundaries establish guidelines for suitable behavior and actions, and in this case, your loved one’s substance abuse. Sometimes boundaries can help a person get to their “bottom” and increase the chances of them getting help. These can be easy to set, however putting them to practical use is the tough part. As long as they continue to use it is important that these boundaries are set to so you can get off your emotional roller-coaster ride.
Here are a couple of sample boundaries you could use:
“I will not allow you to live here if you continue to use.”
“I will not give you any more money.”
“I will not bail you out of jail again.”
“I will not support you in your addiction, but I will support you in your recovery.”
Don’t take it personally
“Hurt people hurt people” and if there is a negative reaction, it has nothing to do with you. If the conversation doesn’t end well and you’ve been open and honest with your emotions, you did what you intended to do.
Take care of yourself
Addiction is a family disease that can wreak havoc on all lives it touches, and if you’re close with the addict, there’s no doubt you may have been exposed to lying, cheating, or manipulative schemes. It can take a toll on your well emotional well-being and sometimes feels like you care more about your loved one than they do themselves. It would be wise to seek outside support such as therapists, or support groups like Al-Anon. Just like the addict needs to recover, so do you!
Understanding Drug Use and Addiction
https://www.drugabuse.gov/…/understanding-drug-use-addiction
Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse; National Institutes of Health; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
https://www.drugabuse.gov/…/understanding-drug-use-addiction
Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse; National Institutes of Health; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
