addiction Archives - Page 19 of 27 - Enlightened Solutions

Stay Away From Trigger Drinks

Written by enlightened solutions on December 29, 2017. Posted in Alcoholism, Sober Living. Leave a Comment

Those with the disease of addiction have many habits that must be broken to move forward in recovery. There may be the need to pick up a non-alcoholic beverage that acts as the replacement to fill the void. This might work at first, but eventually, the void needs to get filled with love and acceptance. However, the mind of addiction has been chemically altered to prioritize drugs and alcohol. As a result, addiction can seemingly sneak around corners to pounce on those with addiction or alcoholism at vulnerable moment. The addicted mind will quickly rationalize and justify an excuse to fall into old behaviors. Those in recovery are suggested to stay away from any practice that gives off any similar feelings which portray old obsessions- namely, self-sabotaging behaviors.

There are beverages such as non-alcoholic beers and wines, which some might find to be a safe option. Although these beverage choices might work for some people, experimenting with them is not recommended. The very action of pouring a glass of beer or wine can be a trigger for the addicted mind. Even if the substance itself doesn’t give the same reaction, the mind begins to act as if it does. This can be the start to a mental or a subconscious relapse- meaning, the brain begins the process of obsessing and craving. If anyone in recovery finds a desire for a faux cocktail, it might be a good time to look at what’s really going on inside. This behavior is too risky in early recovery. Its likely that if this is avoided, there would be less of an urge to partake later in sobriety. Kicking this ritual to the curb will be better in the long run couple possibly give the person more of a chance at staying sober.

Drinks containing 0.5% alcohol are considered to many, to be non-alcoholic. Beverages such as kombucha, have been taken off of shelves and put back on with a 21 and over age limit label- due to this specific alcoholic content. All legalities aside, if there is any trace of alcohol at all in any drink, those with addiction will want to stay away. Any action that allows for the people to act as if they are engaging in addictive behavior can lead to relapse if that person is not well enough equipped to act without relapse.

Enlightened Solutions clinical, holistic, and 12-step approach to addiction can help you! If you are ready to take back your life and understand the root of the cause of addiction don’t waste any more time. Call today for more information: 833-801-5483.

Public Health Emergency

Written by enlightened solutions on December 27, 2017. Posted in 12 Step Program, Drugs & Alcohol. Leave a Comment

There is an opioid epidemic happening right now and it’s killing people at an unprecedented rate. The President of the United States has made the declaration that this is a Public Health Emergency. However, there is still much to be done to receive actual results. While critical funding is being slashed from Medicaid and The National Institutes of Health, effort was put forth to tap the accounts dismal $57,000 of funding.

On average an inpatient treatment center cost $12,000-$60,000 for a 30-day stay. This is simply isn’t enough for the task at hand. To put things into perspective, in 2016 there had been 64,000 overdoses. Families across America are losing loved ones daily to this rampant disease.

Pain management can be a problematic for prescribing doctors across the US. The DEA has been cracking down doctor shopping yet the problem hasn’t slowed down. Prescription opioid deaths have quadrupled since 1999. However, the amount of pain reported has not seen much of any change. There’s something to say for personal responsibility, but something has to be done here to save some lives.

The federal government will be investing in non-addictive painkillers, and prevention. However, there progress has been minimal so far. Meanwhile, addicts are gaining tolerance for medications and having to find the drug on the streets. Often times, abuse starts off with legitimate use, followed by a slow progression of addictive behavior.

When opioids are combined with benzodiazepines and/or alcohol the rate of overdose increases. For those who cannot afford the pill form will resort to using heroin. This can either be administered orally or for faster relief through snorting crushed up pills, or intravenously. By sharing drug paraphernalia addicts transfer HIV, hepatitis, STDs, and other blood-borne diseases. These are only a few of the opioid risk factors and statistics that have shown to be the epitome of what’s going on without any real solution. Get help before it’s too late.

If you are struggling with opioids or you know of someone who is, there is help for you! Enlightened Solutions is a facility that will save your life. Don’t hesitate and call today: 833-801-5483.

Treating Bipolar Disorder

Written by enlightened solutions on December 26, 2017. Posted in 12 Step Program, Mental Health. Leave a Comment

It is a common occurrence for those with bipolar to have the idea of going off prescribed medication when things seem to be going well. This is unfortunate because the medication is working and the person is stable at that time. The high from the mania can feel more freeing than the stability of baseline behavior.

Life during a manic episode can reach levels of complete unmanageability. There are greater highs and lows with longer periods in between. Those with bipolar II also have episodes that are disrupting in life, but the ups and downs are more consistent waves between baseline.

There needs to be acceptance of the diagnosis for there to be consistent medication management. One of the biggest issues with this diagnosis is the inconsistency of the regulating medication. If needed there should be someone to moderate and administer the medication. This may not be ideal, but until there is cooperation, there needs to be someone involved who understands the severity of the situation.

Manic-depressive episodes will interrupt a person’s whole life if medication is not taken properly. There are episodes that cause people to act out in ways that are not out of sync with their normal state. When stable again, there can be a feeling of dissociation to this “other” person. This is commonly linked to addiction due to the lapse in judgment.

For loved ones, there are ways that you can recognize bipolar disorder and begin to seek help. During a manic period, there may be a lack of sleep and increased amount of energy. Many times there will be a surge of unfinished projects and excessive goals. Sexual behavior is also something to look out for as well.

These amongst other strange behaviors are all reason to check into a facility to begin balancing out on a mood stabilizer. There’s no need to live life with these unnecessary ups and downs when there is treatment. This particular untreated mental disorder is preventable if there is a willingness to get help. Sometimes all it takes is a second to look back at the erratic history to come to a realization and see clearly what’s the next right step.

If you are struggling with addiction, alcoholism, and/or mental health, do not lose help! Enlightened Solution’s partial program is designed to help you lead a full life with the love and joy you deserve. Don’t hesitate and take back your life today: 833-801-5483.

Some History on Homelessness

Written by enlightened solutions on December 25, 2017. Posted in Healthy Living, Mental Health. Leave a Comment

Mental health can sometimes get portrayed in a negative light. There are many stigmas that have become very harmful with those who have mental disorders. The lack of care amongst those with mental disorders has skyrocketed throughout the past century. The deinstitutionalization of those receiving help in state hospitals had originally sparked the mass migration of the people onto the streets. By the 1950s, state-funded hospitals had emptied the wards and sent the patients to group homes across the states. The poor living conditions and lack of proper medication management led to patients leaving houses and inevitably wandering the streets with nowhere to go.

In 1967, while Reagan was governor of California, passed the Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act, which made it almost impossible for involuntary hospitalization except in extreme cases. This made this dire situation and soon thereafter, thousands of people with mental disorders became a threat to the public. Violence and police intervention had increased and still, nothing was being done. People who were sick were being locked up instead of getting much-needed help.

Although the magnitude of the situation was still not seen for what it was, President Jimmy Carter signed the Mental Health Systems Act which would lend aid to prevention of mental illness and “promotion of positive mental health.” However, when Reagan came into office, the act was never set into place. Under Reagan, the those with mental illness never had a chance. Similarly to Nixon, Reagan associated psychiatry with communism therefore never addressing the issue in an appropriate context.

Due to the lack of options for those with mental disorders, statistics have shown a rise in homelessness, violence, and deaths. Untreated mental illness had been the cause for these unfortunate numbers but still, there hasn’t been much progress. All over the country, people who are sick are being thrown out on the streets to fend for themselves. Once homeless, they are ostracized and looked down on for their lack of ability to get a job like everyone else. There is a lot of compassion and effort to get these people help they so desperately need, but it’s a long way from a real solution.

If you are suffering from addiction, alcoholism and/or mental health, there is hope for you! Enlightened Solutions clinical, holistic, and 12-step approach is designed to transform patients lives within the body, mind, and soul. Call today for more information: 833-801-5483.

The Rooms of AA

Written by enlightened solutions on December 22, 2017. Posted in 12 Step Program, Alcoholism. Leave a Comment

Becoming sober means more than getting the substance out of the someone’s system. To be given the gift of sobriety comes with a balance of giving back to those still in the disease. While someone is still abusing substances, there is a fair amount of disregard for others. Whether or not a person has the disease of addiction, there must be respect for all humankind alike if true happiness will ever exist. It is taught in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous how to begin down this path.

When people come into the AA program in all walks of life. Some have been beaten down to the core, while others unscathed. What all of its members have in common is the way the mind justifies and rationalizes its self-sabotaging actions. Often times, those with mental health also struggle with addiction. There are millions of personalities who come together in the rooms and relate to one another. There is a saying, “some are sicker than others.” This is true to some extent. However, all members are the same in the capacity that they seek the same solution.

Although different groups have different rules, there are one set of traditions. One of the more common rules is asking members to refrain from crosstalk. Unsolicited advice will not be tolerated in the group to help with conflicting personalities. Everyone has the right to their own opinion and there is no need to have members arguing about various matters. Despite members being asked to share experience, strength, and hope, people do get off topic. Having compassion for others is all apart of the process.

Members of AA who frequent meetings, will often find a group of friends who can relate on a deeper level. This is part of the reason to keep coming back. Seeing that it works for others who are going through similar circumstances, can spread hope and wisdom. When there are new members, it’s imperative for them that it is a comforting and welcoming experience. While learning how to live sober, members of AA will find themselves living more functioning and peaceful lives. Sobrieties a gift but a gift that must be reciprocated.

Enlightened Solutions clinical, holistic, and 12-step approach is a life-changing experience for people struggling with addiction, alcoholism and/or mental health. Come begin transforming your life in our partial program in New Jersey. Call now for more information and take back your life today! 833-801-5483.

When it is Time to Leave a Relationship Behind

Written by enlightened solutions on December 21, 2017. Posted in Relationships, Sober Living. Leave a Comment

Patient. Acceptance that addiction has power is vital in understanding the next step in how to execute change. If the enabling remains part of the person’s life with addiction and/or alcoholism, there will be no real reason to get help.

Using friends are the first to go on the path to recovery. Cutting off contact with all bad influences will guide the person away from those who do not and will not support their recovery.

Romantic relationships can be complicated. While it is recommended that there shouldn’t be any big changes in the first year of sobriety, it should be pretty clear when this does not apply. When a relationship is based on the substance, it’s time to go. Unless both parties enter treatment and begin work on themselves, the person attempting to recover could be drawn back into old habits by the person still in the disease. Often times, after sobering up, people in recovery have different perspectives in regards to romantic feelings. It can be painful but for a better future, one must walk away from the past.

Under certain circumstances, the identified patient may only have the option to go back into old neighborhoods and environments. Being sober will be difficult around all of the unavoidable triggers. Becoming involved in support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous is beneficial because of the new healthy friendships formed. When times are tough, it’s important to have a sober support network, other than a therapist. As time passes, life will have a brighter outlook and things tend to fall into place.

Enlightened Solution’s holistic, clinical, and 12-step approach is the treatment for anyone whose life is out of control. Begin to heal the body, mind, and soul with our amazing staff here in New Jersey. Don’t wait any longer and contact us today for more information.

Are Vaporizers Bad for your Health?

Written by enlightened solutions on December 20, 2017. Posted in Addiction, Healthy Living. Leave a Comment

It is commonly known that when patients enter treatment facilities, they may give into the temptation of nicotine. The fact that nicotine releases dopamine to the brain is one of the reasons why there is a strong craving for the substance. Since vaporizers have come onto the market, the product has become known as less harmful than cigarettes.

Vaporizers have less carcinogenic products and less smoke inhalation than cigarettes which is a good thing. However, even though vaporizers have been approved by the FDA, there are still zero regulations on the additives they use to produce the products e-liquid. Scientists are still studying the long-term effects that these chemical components will have on people.

There are many different manufacturers of e-liquid already. Some of these liquids contain diacetyl, which happens to give butter its buttery taste that we all know so well. This will cause scarring in the lungs known as “popcorn lung.” Why might you ask? The reason behind the name is an incident that occurred in a popcorn factory, where hundreds of employees had been inhaling diacetyl. This was the cause for non-reversing lung damage. There haven’t been any cases of this yet, it’s one of the risks of the usage of diacetyl in the e-liquid.

The are many flavors of e-liquids that produces the smell of the exhalation. The particles in this vaporized material have ultrafine products that can cause pulmonary health problems. The concern is the stigma that vaporizers are healthier than cigarettes. This is not necessarily true. There is no evidence of long-term effects just yet, which means vape users today are the guinea pigs for the product.

Neither vaporizers or cigarettes are a good solution for the body and it doesn’t make much sense to consider “vaping” a step down from smoking cigarettes. It is not suggested to take up smoking while in treatment which would only be trading in one addiction for another. While in treatment, it is suggested to time to embrace the healing process and learn to live without harmful assistance. It may be hard work but it pays off in the end with a long, healthy future.

If you have a history of addictive behavior and/or mental health issues, our safe environment offers a chance to heal. Come begin the transformation with us in New Jersey. Enlightened Solutions has a partial program that includes a clinical, holistic and 12-step approach proven to show real results. For more information, please call 833-801-5483.

Relapse vs. Slip

Written by enlightened solutions on December 19, 2017. Posted in Addiction, Sober Living. Leave a Comment

The road to recovery will always be a bumpy ride. This is true whether or not the person with addiction or alcoholism has relapses and/or slips during the way. Sobriety is a way of life and there must have a daily reprieve to practice abstinence. Otherwise, the mind will tell people that they can participate in disrupting addictive behavior. When there is vigilance about this fact of life, the likelihood of falling into old patterns will become less and less. Good news is that there are many ways those with addictive personalities can prevent this. It’s important to understand that relapse will be set into motion long before the action has taken place.

When people with addiction and/alcoholism are able to remain sober without using the tools of prevention, it is considered to be a “dry drunk” period of time. This means the mind is essentially still in the disease. The mind still wants to numb itself but cannot. This is not a pleasant way to live life, and it can be quite miserable. The disease of addiction, also sometimes considered the disease of the mind. When the tools are being utilizing at first but then begin to fade the addiction has the ability to swoop in and hijack sobriety.

Old habits and thoughts begin to arise and this is when the subconscious begins to relapse. It’s only a matter of time until the person with addiction and/or alcoholism picks up again. Having said that, it is entirely possible to come back from this moment of weakness and continue down the right path again.

The incidents in which someone is strong in sobriety becomes triggered and has a slip. A slip doesn’t have the period of previously relapsing in the mind and it seems to come out of nowhere. Unlike a relapse, the person can pick up the pieces right away and get back on the right track. Whereas with a relapse, it’s common for there to be a struggle in accepting the disease once again.

Relapses and slips have different consequences for each person. Some might have a slip and receive a DUI, while there may be a relapse that surfaces without a scratch. The fact is, no one knows what might happen once a person with addiction and/or alcoholism give into temptation. Therefore, there must always be a strong willingness to use the tools of prevention to live sober.

If you are struggling with addiction, alcoholism, and/or mental health, Enlightened Solution’s partial program is waiting to help you. Our clinical, holistic, and 12-step approach reaches each individual’s body, mind, and soul. For more information please call today: 833-801-5483.

Body Image and Eating Disorders

Written by enlightened solutions on December 18, 2017. Posted in Co-Occurring Disorders, Recovery. Leave a Comment

The disease of addiction is a way to ignore painful feelings stemming from the past. The many behaviors that people can find themselves compulsively participating. These can range from illegal substances to products you can buy from the store at any age. Body dysmorphia is a psychological condition that involves a false body image. Often times this leads to dangerous eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating. Each of these disorders have different side effects and behaviors. Eating disorders are more prevalent in countries that have histories of body shaming. All genders suffer from body dysmorphia.

Body dysmorphic disorder is an addictive behavior. This in particular is the mind obsessing over food. It begins to take on a life of its own, overlooking life’s other responsibilities. Body shaming has been the reason behind much of this behavior. This has been an issue that’s been getting more attention and often times it coincides with addictions to stimulants. One of the more popular prescription medications that’s currently being abused is Adderall. However, adderall is supposed to focus those with ADD and ADHD. In fact, this was initially given to soldiers in WWII, giving them an extra boost of energy to continue the war. Now it’s being used for weight loss and productivity. This is similar to methamphetamines, which can cause psychosis with severe abuse.

Eating disorders can be damaging to the body. The body needs nutrients to survive and when it’s depleted the body begins to shut down. Although anticipated weight loss may occur, there could be a long list of major health issues down the road. Once in treatment, there will be an opportunity to work on patient’s body image and lack of self-esteem. There will be promotion of self-love and respect which will assist in correcting harmful feelings of self worth. Patients will work on the inner child trauma that had inevitably brought them to the point of self-destruction. Through different methods of therapy are designed to help patients heal. This will in time, will increase the patient’s love for the body, soul, and mind.

If you are struggling with an eating disorder and/or addiction to substances, Enlightened Solutions partial patient program in New Jersey will greatly benefit you. Our clinical, holistic, and 12-step approach is the beginning of a beautiful life with passion and hope. For more information, please call today: 833-801-5483.

Intending Sobriety

Written by enlightened solutions on December 14, 2017. Posted in Addiction, Recovery. Leave a Comment

The power of setting an intention is immeasurable. Sobriety must always remain the first priority for those with addiction and all else that truly matters will be there when the time is right. Many things are replaceable in life, but family and life itself is not. When a person is ready to get help, the first intention will be set into action. There must be a look into the devastating effects the disease had over life’s unmanageable circumstances. Over time the disease of addiction takes and takes and there might seem like there is no hope for a bright future. Entering treatment and genuinely wanting to change gives patients the opportunity to work on this intention through many forms of therapy.

Each day patients spend sober, the more empowering it is to live life without unhealthy behaviors. The sober mind is allowed to set goals and find passions that had been covered up by the dark energy. This shows to be a natural high and through a connection with a higher power, it is possible to attain. It is suggested to say affirmations, mantras, prayers and to sit in meditation to find the guidance of which step to take next. Letting go of the traumas of the past will pave the way for the bodies chakras to generate true love with the universe.

Treatment is a safe place for the cleansing process of substance addiction and beginning the healing process of recovery. The bodies holistic space had always been there and it’s possible to clear it’s vessel once again. Once a person with addiction and/or alcoholism begins down a path to recovery, sobriety is only the first intention out of many to come. Some people have visions for themselves such as families, jobs, and happiness. Anything is possible if there is the willingness to work the solution of sobriety. Letting the intuition open the doors to a new freedom will give back lost hope. By redirecting the minds negative talk to positive, people will find themselves feeling better inside and out.

Enlightened Solutions partial program offers guidance of the body, mind, and soul. If you are looking to move forward from the past and find peace, the time is now. Letting go of addictive substances and traumas will give you the strength you need to live a life of beauty and serenity. Call for more information today: 833-801-5483.

Tag: addiction