Treatment Archives - Enlightened Solutions

person struggling with dangerous addiction to fentanyl

What Makes Fentanyl So Dangerous?

Written by enlightened solutions on December 22, 2023. Posted in Addiction, Addictions Treated, Opioid Addiction. Leave a Comment

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than morphine, has become a significant contributor to the opioid crisis in the United States. Understanding what makes fentanyl so dangerous is critical in addressing this growing public health concern.

At Enlightened Solutions, we believe that even the most severe cases of fentanyl addiction can be overcome with the right treatment plan in place. We offer effective, compassionate addiction treatment options to those in need.

What is Fentanyl?

The primary use of fentanyl is to treat patients with severe pain, especially after surgery or those suffering from advanced-stage cancer. Fentanyl is administered in various forms, such as patches, lozenges, and injections.

It is essential to note the stark contrast between pharmaceutical fentanyl used under medical supervision and illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF), which is responsible for the surge in overdose cases. Illegal fentanyl often finds its way into the drug market, disguised in other substances, exponentially magnifying their effects and risks.

How Does Fentanyl Work?

As a synthetic opioid, fentanyl interacts with the brain’s opioid receptors at an accelerated pace. This rapid interaction can overwhelm the body’s systems, leading to sedation, unconsciousness, and, in the worst-case scenario, cessation of breathing. The crux of what makes fentanyl so dangerous is its ability to induce overwhelming pleasure circuits alongside critical life-support functions in the brain, increasing the risk of a fatal overdose with even minuscule amounts.

Fentanyl Use in the U.S.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that in 2020, over 56,000 deaths in the United States were linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The American Medical Association (AMA) highlights that the presence of fentanyl in counterfeit pills is a growing concern, as many users are unaware of its inclusion. A decrease in painkiller prescriptions has not led to a reduction in opioid-related overdose deaths. Lastly, the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified fentanyl as a significant contributor to the global opioid crisis, underscoring its danger and widespread impact. These statistics paint a grim picture of fentanyl’s role in the ongoing opioid epidemic, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and preventive measures.

The Dangers of Fentanyl

The primary reason fentanyl is so dangerous lies in its extreme potency. Just a tiny dose, equivalent to a few grains of salt, can be lethal. Its high potency increases the risk of overdose, especially when individuals unknowingly consume fentanyl that has been mixed with other drugs.

Potency of Fentanyl

Fentanyl’s potency is unmatched when compared to traditional opioids. Up to 100 times more potent than morphine, this synthetic opioid was initially developed as a pain reliever for medical purposes. It’s now clear that fentanyl’s potency plays a significant role in its danger:

Smaller than a grain of sand, a minute amount can be lethal.
It’s often used to “cut” other drugs, which amplifies their effects unpredictably, causing many users to overdose unintentionally.
Higher potency means that individuals can quickly develop a tolerance, necessitating higher quantities to achieve the same effect, boosting the likelihood of overdose and death.

Overdose Risks

Overdose risks associated with fentanyl are exponentially higher than most other opioids. Given its high potency and the fact users are often unaware of their exposure, overdose can occur rapidly and with little warning.

Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors, which are present in areas of the brain that control pain and emotions. Due to its strength, fentanyl’s effects occur swiftly and can suppress breathing, leading to potential hypoxia—a condition that arises when too little oxygen reaches the brain.
The risk of overdose is compounded when fentanyl is mixed with other substances like heroin, cocaine, or prescription painkillers. Since these combinations can alter the effects unpredictably, they pose an even more significant threat.
Individuals with a substance use disorder may seek out fentanyl-laced products for a more intense high, often without fully understanding the likelihood of an overdose.

Role in Opioid Crisis

The accessibility and increased illicit manufacture of fentanyl have exacerbated the crisis:

Overseas production of fentanyl has led to an influx of the drug onto the streets, often disguised as other less potent opioids, which has taken many users by surprise.
Drug dealers use fentanyl to increase the potency of other drugs, unbeknownst to consumers, intensifying the potential for widespread harm.
The federal government’s warning to police about the handling of fentanyl signifies the level of threat this substance poses to both users and public servants.

Addressing the Fentanyl Crisis

Combating the fentanyl problem requires a multi-faceted approach. Public education about the dangers of fentanyl, increased access to treatment for substance use disorders, and the distribution of naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal drug, are all critical. Law enforcement also plays a role in curbing the supply of illicit fentanyl. In order for existing cases of fentanyl addiction to be treated, accessible treatment options like those provided at Enlightened Solutions must be made available.

Fentanyl Abuse Treatment Options

There are multiple treatment options that have proven effective for those grappling with fentanyl abuse. Because no two experiences with active addiction are the same, treatment should always be individualized.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to treat substance use disorders. For fentanyl addiction, this includes medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, which help mitigate withdrawal symptoms and block the euphoric effects of opioids.

Methadone reduces cravings and withdrawal by acting on the same opioid receptors as fentanyl but without the high.
Buprenorphine also binds to opioid receptors with less risk of dependence.
Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors and is used after detox to prevent relapse.

Behavioral Therapies

At Enlightened Solutions, we offer a range of behavioral therapies. These therapies address the psychological component of addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps modify a patient’s drug-use expectations and behaviors and effectively manage triggers and stress.

Contingency Management

Another approach is contingency management, which provides incentives for staying drug-free. This motivational strategy has shown promising results in maintaining sobriety.

Support Groups

Joining support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provides a community of individuals who understand the journey to recovery. Peer support is an invaluable resource during treatment.

Inpatient and Outpatient Programs

Depending on the severity of the addiction, inpatient (residential) treatment or outpatient programs can be tailored to individual needs. Inpatient programs offer a structured environment, whereas outpatient programs allow individuals to maintain specific responsibilities while receiving treatment.

Finding the best treatment option is a significant step toward recovery. While no single treatment is a fit for everyone, a combination of therapy, medication, and community support can pave the road to overcoming fentanyl addiction.

Learn More About Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Near You

Fentanyl’s extreme potency and its widespread illicit production and distribution are central to why it is so dangerous. The opioid crisis, exacerbated by fentanyl, remains a significant public health challenge in the United States. Addressing it requires awareness, education, and accessible treatment options.

At Enlightened Solutions, we have developed an effective and affordable fentanyl addiction treatment program in New Jersey. Contact us today, and one of our experienced staff members will walk you through our simple admissions process. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you begin your personal recovery journey as soon as possible.

The Dangers of Vaping

Written by enlightened solutions on November 27, 2023. Posted in Addiction, Drugs & Alcohol. Leave a Comment

While it’s true that all the medical dangers of vaping aren’t yet fully understood, there’s enough evidence to suggest many reasons not to vape. Despite a lack of comprehensive studies, a significant number of people mistakenly believe that vaping nicotine derived from tobacco is a healthy way to quit smoking. A misconception often fueled by the tobacco industry.

Reasons People Vape

People vape for various reasons, influenced by personal, social, and health-related factors:

As an Alternative to Smoking: Many people turn to vaping as a way to quit or reduce smoking traditional cigarettes.
Social Influence: Peer pressure or social circles where vaping is common influences individuals to start vaping. Especially, among teens and young adults.
Curiosity and Experimentation: Curiosity often drives people, particularly younger individuals, to try vaping. The variety of flavors and the novelty of the devices can be appealing.
Stress and Anxiety Relief: Some people use vaping as a means to cope with mental health issues like stress, anxiety, or depression, similar to how some use cigarettes or other substances like alcohol and drugs.
Recreational Use: The recreational aspect, including the enjoyment of different flavors and the physical act of vaping, appeals to some users.
Control Over Nicotine Intake: Vaping devices allow users to control their nicotine intake, including options with lower nicotine or no nicotine at all.
Avoidance of Smoking Bans: In places where smoking cigarettes is banned, some people might choose to vape instead.
Perceived as Safer: There’s a common perception, though not entirely accurate, that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes. This perception motivates people to choose vaping over smoking.
Weight Management: Some people use vaping as a tool for weight management, as nicotine can suppress appetite.
Image and Lifestyle: Vaping is sometimes associated with a certain lifestyle or image that people want to be part of, influenced by marketing and social media.

It’s important to note that while vaping might be less harmful than traditional smoking, it is not without health risks. Especially, for non-smokers and young people. The long-term effects of vaping are still being studied. However, there are clear reasons not to vape.

The Misconception of Vaping as a Healthy Alternative

The perception of vaping as “harmless” seems to be known more by today’s teens and tweens than their parents. Initially promoted as a safer alternative to smoking tobacco, the popularity of vaping soared. The absence of carcinogens and tars that are usually found in conventional tobacco products painted vaping in a harmless light. The promise of no secondhand smoke was an additional selling point.

At face value, it appeared quite benign. However, these assumptions were far from accurate. Vaping isn’t just about inhaling harmless water vapor. It’s an aerosol filled with toxic particles, posing a multitude of potential risks. These risks stem from device-specific issues, the composition of the vaporized liquid products, and the potential toxicity of both nicotine and marijuana when inhaled in concentrated forms.

It’s conceivable to consider vaping as a “lesser of evils” compared to traditional cigarette smoking. But, there is a stark reality—there is still so much we do not understand about vaping. Much of our learning curve will come from reports of potential health complications linked to vaping made to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Understanding the Composition of Vape Aerosols

To truly understand the dangers of vaping, it’s essential to be aware of what users are breathing in. Vaping aerosols, sometimes inappropriately referred to as ‘water vapor’, contain various potentially harmful substances. Despite containing components that are considered safe for cosmetic or food use like glycerol (vegetable glycerin) and propylene glycol (PG), their safety when inhaled long-term remains unknown.

Vaping operates by heating a liquid into an aerosol that is then inhaled into the lungs. This isn’t the harmless water vapor many think it is, but a cocktail of particles including nicotine, flavoring, and other unknown substances. These particles, suspended in air, travel from the mouthpiece of the e-cigarette into the user’s mouth, down the throat, and then into the lungs.

Scientifically published research conducted by Papaefstathiou et al. (2020) assessed the particle size distributions and volatile organic compounds exhaled by e-cigarette users. Their findings further illuminate the reality of vape aerosols and add another point to the dangers of vaping.

A common component of e-cigarettes—the element used to transform the liquid into an aerosol—is often misconceived as being as harmless as ‘water vapor’. Contrarily, it’s a combination of multiple substances, each bringing a risk factor. E-cigarettes or vape pens are powered by batteries. As it powers on, it heats the liquid to create the aerosol.

These vaping products deliver not only nicotine, proven to have not only detrimental health effects and addictive properties but also potentially other addictive substances like THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, and illicitly, even methamphetamines. Each hit from the device draws these substances into unsuspecting lungs, unveiling the hidden dangers of vaping.

Device-Specific Issues and Potential Dangers

Vaping devices can cause mechanical injuries, burns, or even explosions, due to malfunctioning. Safety standards are set to minimize these risks, but even certified devices are not completely safe, especially when near oxygen sources where they can cause fires. Furthermore, the aerosols that come from vaping contain harmful substances like nicotine, flavoring agents, and unidentified substances, and have been associated with delivering methamphetamines and THC.

Research links vaping to diminished fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and increased respiratory impedance, highlighting its potential health dangers. In addition, evidence linking vaping to lipoid pneumonia, a serious health condition, is mounting too. These and many other revelations have begun to erode the perception of vaping as safe. The reasons not to vape are becoming increasingly clear and compelling.

Lung and Organ Damage From Vaping

Vaping, despite commonly being perceived as a safer alternative to smoking, carries a multitude of health risks including organ damage. The chemicals not only damage the lungs but also critical organs such as the heart and brain. Further risks include a severe lung condition known as EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use associated lung injury), increased severity in existing respiratory conditions, and a permanent lung scarring condition called “popcorn lung” caused by a chemical named diacetyl.

In addition, the electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) present in these devices creates potentially harmful vapors from nicotine, flavorings, and other additives. Many are seemingly unaware of these dangers, drawing parallels to the delayed understanding of the harm cigarettes cause. The addition of these foreign substances, even as vapor, disrupts lung function and can provoke severe health complications.

The Potential for Addiction to Vaping

Vaping, while perceived as less damaging than traditional smoking, still presents significant addiction risks. Many vaping products contain nicotine, an addictive substance that can cause harm to the brain, particularly in teens and young adults. Even though certain products claim to be nicotine-free, they have been found to contain it. Even slight usage of e-cigarettes can lead to addiction.

The Most Compelling Reasons Not to Vape

To summarize, there are numerous reasons not to vape. Especially, for non-smokers, young people, and pregnant women:

Health Risks: Vaping exposes the user to various chemicals, including nicotine, which is addictive and harms adolescent brain development. Other substances in vape juice also pose health risks.
Addiction: Nicotine is highly addictive. Like other substances of addiction, vaping can lead to nicotine addiction. Thereby, making it hard to quit and potentially leading to the use of traditional cigarettes.
Impact on Lung Health: Vaping has been associated with lung problems. The inhalation of certain substances in vape juice, like vitamin E acetate, has been linked to serious lung conditions.
Gateway to Smoking: For non-smokers, especially teenagers and young adults, vaping acts as a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes. Consequently, reversing decades of progress in tobacco control.
Unknown Long-Term Effects: The long-term effects of vaping are still not fully understood. Vaping is relatively new, and more research is needed to understand long-term health consequences.
Expenses: The cost of purchasing vaping devices and refill cartridges adds up.
Social Influence and Peer Pressure: Young people, in particular, may face peer pressure to vape. Thus, leading to unhealthy habits and lifestyle choices.
Secondhand Exposure: While less harmful than traditional cigarette smoke, the aerosol from e-cigarettes still contains chemicals that may be harmful to bystanders.
Pregnancy Risks: Vaping during pregnancy can be harmful to the fetus. Nicotine exposure during pregnancy affects fetal brain and lung development.
Environmental Impact: The waste from disposable e-cigarettes and cartridges contributes to environmental pollution. Many vaping products are not biodegradable or recyclable.

For these reasons, individuals, especially those who do not currently smoke, are generally advised to avoid starting vaping. Those who do vape should be aware of these risks and consider seeking help to quit.

Begin a Healthier, Happier Lifestyle at Enlightened Solutions

Enlightened Solutions Recovery helps individuals seeking a life liberated from the grasp of harmful substances. Our holistic approach goes beyond abstaining from drugs and alcohol. It’s about nurturing a healthy lifestyle that heals the mind, body, and spirit. We believe that true recovery encompasses physical well-being, mental clarity, and spiritual balance.

veteran in therapy for trauma and addiction

The Connection Between Trauma and Addiction

Written by enlightened solutions on November 10, 2023. Posted in Addiction, Holistic Treatment, Mental Health. Leave a Comment

Addiction often serves as a response to past trauma, whether the individual is aware of it or not. The inability to identify and acknowledge this connection between past hurt and substance abuse can complicate the treatment of the underlying addiction. Ideally, understanding these specific connections between trauma and addiction sheds light on how past stress or abuse influences substance abuse patterns.

Understanding Trauma and Its Impact

Unveiling the hidden association between trauma and addiction offers a fresh perspective on the behaviors and consequences of addiction disorders. It also accentuates the profound impact of adverse childhood experiences and chronic stress on substance abuse. Childhood trauma and stress can follow an individual into adolescence and adulthood, shaping their thoughts, behavior, and reactions.

The consensus among experts is that there’s a strong connection between trauma and addiction, with some suggesting that addiction is almost always a result of underlying trauma or a history of abuse.

What is Trauma?

Trauma refers to any event that’s distressing, disturbing, or significantly upsetting. Defined by the DSM-5-TR, trauma can become an individual’s reality following exposure to actual or threatened death, significant injury, or sexual violence. This exposure can occur directly, as a bystander, or through repeated exposure to traumatic event details.

Types of Traumatic Events

Traumatic events can stem from a multitude of unfavorable experiences. Some common examples include sexual assault, domestic violence, combat, and natural disasters. Impressively, about 90% of individuals seeking help in a behavioral healthcare setting say they were victims of a traumatic event. This means the majority of individuals grappling with mental and emotional health challenges have had their lives drastically altered by trauma.

Trauma can occur as a single event like a car accident or the traumatic loss of a loved one or as a long-term stressor like living in an abusive household. As such, it’s crucial to understand that these experiences can happen to anyone, at any point in life.

How Trauma Affects the Brain

The connection between trauma and addiction stems from how negatively these instances affect individuals’ mental, emotional, and physiological well-being. Trauma triggers feelings of hyperarousal, reactivity, intensely overwhelming emotions, panic, and other mental health conditions that can be challenging to manage without proper support. In a bid to suppress these challenging feelings, individuals often turn to substances, thus creating a vicious cycle.

It’s important also to note that trauma is more than a negative experience. It’s an event or series of circumstances that have lasting effects on individuals’ mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being. Specifically, childhood trauma strongly correlates with addiction.

Data shows that lifetime trauma incidence is the best predictor of addiction. This is why treating trauma is highly beneficial for addiction recovery. With this understanding, key interventions can be made to break the deadly cycle of dependence and abuse resulting from unaddressed trauma. This illuminates the need for professionals who specialize in trauma-informed and trauma-focused treatments, capable of addressing the roots of addiction while providing supportive mechanisms for handling trauma-related issues.

In essence, understanding the connection between trauma and addiction is vital. The task then becomes aiding individuals to recognize their emotions, identifying triggers, and developing healthy coping mechanisms. This understanding marks a significant step towards lasting change, and ultimately, recovery.

The Cycle of Trauma and Addiction

Understanding the cycle of trauma and addiction is vital especially when seeking solutions to break this destructive cycle. With an aligned mental health approach—including psychotherapy, professional guidance, and treatment, individuals stand a better chance to regain control of their lives.

Signs of Trauma

There are widespread symptoms associated with trauma, however, these can vary significantly in intensity and nature among individuals. Emotional dysregulation, panic attacks, and struggles with executive functions, are key signs often noted. Furthermore, those who’ve undergone childhood trauma in particular, may experience far-reaching psychological and behavioral aftereffects. Moreover, trauma can impact anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Hence, paying attention to these signs is crucial.

Escaping Emotional Pain

Studies suggest that attempts to escape or numb emotional distress often prompt the onset of substance use. To escape the overwhelming feelings associated with trauma, individuals may turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of temporary relief from their mental anguish. Vulnerable groups to these effects include women, adolescents, and individuals from marginalized populations. However, the reality remains that any person can experience childhood trauma and consequently struggle with subsequent addiction.

The Role of Self-Medication

Once faced with the grim reality of trauma and its resulting distress, the act of self-medication is often the default reaction for many. Substance misuse often becomes a coping mechanism. Thereby, temporarily alleviating the emotional pain caused by trauma. The link between trauma and substance use becomes apparent when the substance is used to ward off traumatic triggers or memories. Understanding that self-medication is a common, albeit unhealthy, response to trauma initiates the process of breaking the addiction cycle.

Addiction as a Source of Further Trauma

Dependence brought on by self-medication and addiction can itself prove traumatic, further perpetuating the cycle. Addiction negatively influences relationships and can cause economic strain, leading to additional trauma stimuli. Furthermore, according to Pharmacology Biochemistry & Behavior, “It is estimated that addiction-related costs to society exceed $740 billion annually due to crime, loss of productivity and healthcare.” The repercussions of addiction extend beyond the individual, impacting society broadly.

Are You Experiencing Trauma and Self-Medicating?

Identifying trauma and understanding its connection to substance use is the first stride toward dismantling the traumatic addiction cycle. Recognizing increased substance use following distressing events, or using such substances to cope with trauma-related triggers, could signify a trauma-addiction connection. Seeking professional assistance that specializes in trauma-informed and trauma-focused treatments, coupled with social support and early intervention, can greatly reduce the magnitude of trauma symptoms and ultimately curb substance use issues.

Unraveling the complex link between trauma and addiction requires careful understanding, expert insight, and caring intervention, certainly proving challenging yet not insurmountable.

Stress: The Middleman Between Trauma and Addiction

Scientific evidence strongly links trauma, especially childhood trauma, to addiction. Trauma incidence is the most reliable predictor of addiction, and the correlation between the two is deeply intertwined. Trauma can lead to stress that escalates to addiction and has negative effects on emotional skills, cognitive development, and even the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. The lack of natural chemicals like oxytocin and serotonin can make individuals vulnerable to substance abuse.

Treating trauma with trauma-informed methods is crucial to breaking the cycle. Integrating addiction treatments with stress management strategies could revolutionize perspectives on addiction. Society needs to strive for understanding, compassion, and actionable solutions in dealing with trauma. Recognizing and addressing the connection between trauma and addiction is essential for a future free from addiction’s hold.

How Childhood Trauma Leads to Addiction

Understanding the intricacies of trauma and addiction originates from delving into a key contributing factor: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Specifically, the impact these ACEs have on developing addictive behaviors later in life cannot be overstated.

What are ACEs?

ACEs, or adverse childhood experiences, refer to traumatic events that occur during a person’s early years. These experiences, such as abuse or neglect, can have a significant impact on a person’s mental and physical health. Many people have experienced at least one ACE, and the more ACEs a person has experienced, the more likely they are to face addiction and other health issues.

It is important to address these experiences early and provide mental health support to break the cycle.

Recognizing and Treating Trauma and Addiction

Trauma and addiction are closely related, and it is important to recognize this connection to provide effective treatment for underlying addictions. Trauma often leads to substance abuse as a coping mechanism, with conditions like PTSD and substance abuse commonly occurring together. Integrated treatment approaches that address both disorders concurrently are more effective than separate treatments.

Healing from both disorders requires acknowledging the relationship between the two and seeking professional assistance for trauma-focused treatments. With the right help, lasting recovery is within reach.

Moving Toward Recovery and Resilience

Understanding the profound connection between trauma and addiction sets the stage for lasting recovery. Individuals on this path need an arsenal of tools and resources to help them navigate their journeys. Resilience and empowerment tend to be key elements in overcoming the challenges associated with trauma and substance use.

A Holistic Perspective of Mental and Physical Health: Unresolved Trauma and Addiction

Unresolved trauma often plays a role in addiction, and adopting a trauma-informed perspective can lead to more successful recovery journeys. This perspective recognizes an individual’s strengths and resilience, taking into account the impact of past trauma on substance abuse. Building resilience and fostering positive connections are emphasized, with a focus on repairing relational dynamics.

Family and community support, as well as holistic counseling services, are important components of treatment. Integrating strategies that address both trauma and substance abuse is crucial to breaking the cycle of addiction and intergenerational trauma.

Comprehensive Treatment for Trauma and Addiction at Enlightened Solutions

Trauma can have lasting effects on cognitive development, emotions, stress responses, and mood regulation, leading individuals to turn to substance use as a means of escape. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) greatly influence addictive behaviors later in life, making early intervention and quality mental health care essential for addressing ACEs and breaking the cycle.

A strength-based, trauma-informed approach that focuses on resilience, empowerment, positive connections, and healthy relationships is necessary for overcoming trauma and substance use.

Contact us at Enlightened Solutions to learn about our comprehensive approach to treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.

A woman struggling with opioid addiction

Opioid Addiction Symptoms, Signs, and Treatment

Written by enlightened solutions on August 4, 2023. Posted in Addiction, Addiction Recovery, Opioid Addiction. Leave a Comment

Opioid addiction is a global health crisis with severe impacts on physical and mental well-being, relationships, work or school performance, and financial stability. Breaking free from its grip often requires professional help. Therefore, understanding the signs of opioid addiction is crucial. Treatment options, including medications and therapies, help individuals recover and lead meaningful lives. A comprehensive aftercare plan with lifestyle modifications is key to maintaining long-term recovery.

What Are Opioids?

Opioids are very potent and extremely addictive drugs that come from opium, which is derived from the poppy plant. Opioids include a variety of drugs. Some are natural, synthetic, legal, illegal, recreational, or medicinal. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies prescription opioids as Schedule II controlled substances because they have a medical use but also a high risk of misuse.

Natural opioids have been used to treat nervous disorders, cancers, and other conditions. Most painkillers are opioids and are prescribed to relieve chronic or severe pain. People with opioid use disorder will usually take more than the required dose and obtain more illegally. Synthetic or manmade opioids have similar effects but can be used as an option for opioid addiction treatment.

Any long-term use of opioids increases the risk of addiction, even prescription drugs. Opioid tolerance triggers the vicious cycle of addiction. People take more and more of the substance to reach that pleasurable feeling from the first time using. The continuous increase in use puts a person at a very high risk of overdose.

What drugs are opioids?

Schedule II prescription opioid drugs include:

Oxycodone
Oxymorphone
Hydrocodone
Hydromorphone
Fentanyl
Morphine
Codeine
Methadone
Tramadol
Buprenorphine

Heroin, an illegal synthetic street drug derived from morphine, is also an opioid but a Schedule I controlled substance with no currently accepted medical use in the United States. It is one of the most powerful and dangerous drugs and a person can become addicted after just one use.

Physical Symptoms of Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction can manifest in physical symptoms, indicating the presence of opioid use disorder. Physical symptoms may vary depending on the specific opioids being used, the dosage, and the individual’s overall health. If someone is struggling with opioid addiction, it’s critical to encourage them to seek professional addiction treatment and support right away.

Some common physical symptoms of opioid addiction include:

Constricted pupils: Opioids cause the pupils to become noticeably smaller than usual.
Drowsiness or nodding off: Individuals addicted to opioids may frequently appear sleepy or drift in and out of consciousness.
Slurred speech: Opioid use can lead to difficulty in articulating words clearly and coherently.
Poor coordination: Opioid addiction affects motor skills and coordination. Thus, leading to unsteady movements.
Weight changes: Some people may experience fluctuations in weight, either gaining or losing, due to opioid addiction.
Itchy or flushed skin: Opioids can cause the skin to become itchy and red.
Nausea and vomiting: Opioid use often causes gastrointestinal problems, leading to nausea and vomiting.
Constipation: Opioids commonly cause constipation, as they slow down body systems.
Respiratory issues: Opioid use depresses the respiratory system, leading to shallow breathing or difficulty breathing.
Needle marks or track marks: Intravenous drug use leaves visible puncture marks on the skin, especially in the arms or other injection sites.

Behavioral Signs of Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction is recognizable through various behavioral signs and changes in a person’s actions and habits. It’s essential to approach someone showing behavioral signs of opioid addiction with empathy and understanding. Encourage them to seek professional opioid addiction treatment and support for their recovery.

Some common behavioral signs of opioid addiction include:

Obsession with obtaining opioids: An individual thinks about or obsesses over obtaining and using opioids. Which can lead to a preoccupation with drug-seeking behaviors.
Doctor shopping: They may visit multiple doctors or healthcare providers to obtain multiple prescriptions for the drugs.
Neglecting responsibilities: Individuals may neglect important responsibilities at work, school, or home, as obtaining and using drugs becomes a priority.
Social withdrawal: Individuals may withdraw from social interactions and activities they once enjoyed in favor of drug use.
Continued use despite negative consequences: Even when facing adverse effects on health, relationships, finances, or legal problems they continue using the drugs.
Secretive behavior: People addicted to opioids may become secretive about their activities and whereabouts, trying to hide their drug use from others.
Changes in friendships and social circles: The person associates with new groups of people who are also involved in drug use.
Risky behaviors: Opioid addiction can lead to engaging in risky behaviors to obtain drugs, such as stealing or participating in illegal activities.
Increased tolerance: Over time, an individual may require higher doses of opioids to achieve the same effects, leading to increased tolerance.
Withdrawal symptoms: When opioids wear off, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, nausea, and muscle pain, driving them to use opioids to relieve these symptoms.
Failed attempts to quit: Someone with opioid addiction may try to quit or cut back on drug use but find it challenging to do so due to withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Opioid Addiction Treatment

Opioid addiction treatment typically involves a combination of medical interventions, behavioral therapies, and support systems to help individuals recover from opioid use disorder. The main goals of opioid addiction treatment are to reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and address the underlying issues contributing to addiction.

Here are some common approaches to opioid addiction treatment:

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT combines the use of FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies. These medications help safely reduce opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Thereby, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery without experiencing intense physical discomfort.
Behavioral Therapies: Various behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), are effective in treating opioid addiction. These therapies help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. While also learning coping skills, and promoting healthier decision-making.
Counseling and Support Groups: Individual and group counseling sessions provide a safe space for individuals to discuss their challenges related to addiction. Additionally, support groups offer a supportive community of peers who understand the struggles of addiction.
Detoxification: Medically supervised detoxification helps manage acute withdrawal symptoms when someone stops using opioids. Medical detox is often the first step in the treatment process.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Many individuals also have co-occurring mental health disorders. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both addiction and mental health disorders simultaneously for more effective outcomes.
Holistic Therapies: Some treatment programs incorporate holistic approaches, such as mindfulness, yoga, art therapy, and meditation, to promote overall well-being during the recovery process.
Aftercare and Continuing Support: After completing a treatment program, individuals benefit from ongoing support to prevent relapse. Aftercare involves outpatient counseling, 12-step meetings, or other support to the individual’s needs.
Family Involvement: Involving family members in the treatment process improves communication and support networks. Therefore, fostering a healthier home environment for the person in recovery.

Find Safe and Effective Opioid Addiction Treatment at Enlightened Solutions

Recovery begins with you. You make the decision to call and ask for help and start a transformational, life-changing journey. The power to heal is yours. Let Enlightened Solutions show you the path of holistic treatment, bringing together the best practices of evidence-based clinical care, proven alternative healing practices, and a trusted 12-step philosophy.

How Group Learning During Treatment Benefits Recovery

Written by enlightened solutions on December 29, 2022. Posted in Substance Abuse.

Many treatment methods have been proven to treat substance addiction successfully. These methods can be a combination of mental and physical health treatments, as substance abuse affects both the body and brain. One successful treatment involves group learning, in which one or more facilitators lead a group of clients, perhaps anywhere from five to 15 people, to discuss their sobriety journeys with one another.

This may seem intimidating on its face, but it’s a similar model that sobriety groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-Step programs use and have seen great success from. For people who are afraid of upsetting close friends and relatives or may experience a good deal of judgment for this particular struggle, it can actually be easier to share with strangers than people they actually know. In group settings like these, there is no prior reputation to uphold; it’s already a given that everyone is there for the same reason. One thing is certain: These people understand how hard it is. They understand at a personal level that few others can.

Many group sessions are organized around an issue that is common to group members, regardless of age, sex, background, etc. These topics can range from dealing with stress or loneliness in healthy ways to building self-confidence and developing a sense of self-awareness and humility. The support that is built in group learning is different than what you would experience when meeting with a therapist one-on-one (though that is also helpful for many people).

The Benefits of Group Learning for Sobriety

There are many causes of addiction; scientists believe it’s a combination of environmental factors and genetics. Whatever it was for you, there is likely another person (or two, or three, or more) in a group whose addiction has similar roots. Knowing you aren’t the only person to experience trauma, depression, grief, or family members who also use drugs or alcohol can help make it easier to open up about your own struggle. You may not feel comfortable speaking up at first, but you never know what you might say that makes another group member feel seen and less alone.

Additional benefits of group learning include:

A Supportive Network

People need communal support to thrive, with or without an addiction problem. But in the process of recovery, it’s essential. It can be hard to find that particular support in one’s own family or friend group, but a group learning environment at a treatment center is full of people working towards the same goal. Having a support network can also show you how to effectively communicate your needs and learn to ask for help when you need it. The fear of asking for help often keeps addiction hidden and enables it to thrive. But asking for help can break the spell of secrecy and shame.

Feeling Connected

Group therapy probably isn’t the first place one would think to go to make new friends, but it happens. People who have been through the same depths can often bond for life. When you have a solid connection to others, you also develop a strong connection to yourself by recognizing your own strengths. Connecting to others in group learning can help provide a greater sense of purpose after you leave the recovery program and start a new sober life.

Getting Beyond Your Comfort Zone

This is arguably one of the hardest parts of group learning activities and therapies, especially for introverted personalities. But seeking help for addiction is already a hard, uncomfortable process. This is a place where it’s safe and encouraged to take emotional risks. Communicating your struggles with a group can make it less intimidating to advocate for yourself outside of the group – that is, asking for help or support when you need it. Communicating fears, traumas, and other emotional stressors can become easier with time and deepen your relationships with others going through similar things.

However, while there is a lot of overlap in experiences in group settings, no two people are exactly alike. Exposure to different perspectives and stories is part of how we grow into more well-rounded, compassionate people.

Learning New Skills

Part of rewiring a brain that’s been damaged by long-term substance use involves learning new cognitive and behavioral skills. This can look like replacing unhealthy behavior patterns with healthier ones and learning better coping mechanisms. One benefit of learning these skills in a group setting is that it allows you to practice them with others. Interacting with others can help inspire new ways of thinking and interacting with the world around you.

Group settings can also allow for feedback, both to you and to others. When your self-image is distorted, learning new skills in a group can increase self-awareness. It is essential to improve how we live and interact with others before reinitiating ourselves into the world outside the treatment facility.

Learn From Others at Enlightened Solutions

At Enlightened Solutions, we offer a variety of group learning activities to help our clients heal and cope. Some groups are gender-specific, while others are co-ed to enhance learning from those who differ from us. We also offer nutrition groups, family therapy, and more.

Many people might feel strange about doing group learning activities while in recovery simply because addiction is such a personal thing. However, you may find (as many of our clients have) that group learning allows everyone to learn from and encourage one another. At Enlightened Solutions, we firmly believe that it takes a community and a strong support network to fully recover from substance addiction. This community not only encourages you during challenges to sobriety but can also help hold you accountable and remind you why you are pursuing sobriety in the first place. To learn more about the treatment programs we offer, contact Enlightened Solutions today at (833) 801-LIVE.

How Do I Choose the Right Treatment Program?

Written by enlightened solutions on December 25, 2022. Posted in treatment.

Addiction is a challenging yet treatable disease. Research has found many methods that can help people stop using drugs and live healthy and sober lives. Of these methods, one of the most crucial is to find effective treatment that fits your needs. Spending time choosing a treatment program that is right for you is well worth it, as you are more likely to get the help you need to be delivered in a way that you connect with.

Choosing the best treatment program for you can seem daunting, but luckily, there are many different options out there. They vary in the types of therapy they offer, what they specialize in, cost, location, and other factors. These are all aspects of a treatment program you should consider when exploring the right treatment program for you.

Identifying What You Need From a Treatment Program

The first step to identifying the right treatment program for you is to determine what you need out of it, recognizing what substances, behaviors, and mental health disorders you are looking to find treatment for. For example, if you need treatment for addiction and a co-occurring mental health disorder, you will want to look for a program that includes dual-diagnosis care.

You also need to explore different treatment approaches and which of them you think will work for you. It can be challenging to figure this out, but speaking with a mental health care provider can help you to identify your needs better if this is something you are struggling with.

Treatment Program Options

Addiction treatment programs include different options. Below, we will discuss what aspect of a treatment program to ask about and consider when deciding on a program.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment

Addiction treatment generally comes in two forms – inpatient programs and outpatient programs. An inpatient program offers live-in care as you receive treatment; this often includes a medical detox that initiates the treatment process. Outpatient programs require you to live at home as you go to a treatment center to receive services during the day.

Each of these options has a place in treatment and recovery. Inpatient programs are generally suggested for those entering treatment for the first time. However, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) is beneficial for individuals concerned about relapse or who have recently relapsed.

Treatment Specialties

Every treatment center has certain types of addiction they treat and methods of treatment. For example, some treatment facilities only offer treatment for alcohol addiction.

Specialties can also include the approach of the treatment center. For example, at Enlightened Solutions, we specialize in holistic addiction treatment. This means that our treatment options are centered around treating the whole person. Due to this specialty, we include organic food, exercise programs, and stress management skills in our treatment programs.

Treatments and Therapies Available

Different types of therapies and treatments will be more effective for you than others. If you do not know what is or will be most effective for you, that’s okay. The first step is reading about the types of treatments available for addiction and learning what is offered within the programs you are looking into.

Treatment options often include some of the following:

Individual therapy
Family therapy
Adventure therapy
Different types of group therapy
Learning life skills
Therapy for specific mental health disorders
Detox

Speaking with a mental health care professional at a treatment facility can help you decide. Such a conversation will be two-sided and informative. They will ask you questions that help them – and you – learn if the specific treatment program is well-suited for your individual needs.

Location of the Treatment Program

The location of a treatment program is also essential. However, this is a preference that will vary for each person. Some may want to stay close to family and friends, while others may desire and benefit from treatment far from home and in a different environment.

Length of the Treatment Program

Treatment facilities often offer multiple options regarding the length of treatment. Standard program lengths are 30, 60, or 90 days. An ideal length of a program will vary depending on your needs. The cost, amount of time available, and need for detox can all play into your decision.

Again, speaking with a provider will help you to determine what is best for your needs in terms of length of stay. They will be able to help you understand the benefits and downsides of different program lengths.

Price of Services

The cost of addiction treatment is an important factor when considering different programs. Asking the facility what options are available and the cost of different programs will help you to learn if they will work for you.

Many treatment programs take insurance and will verify if your insurance company will cover your treatment if you inquire about it. This is a great option to look into and can make treatment affordable.

Treatment programs vary in price, length, location, and more. Finding the right program that fits your needs will help you to be more successful in your recovery. At Enlightened Solutions, we offer holistic treatment options that address mental health and substance use disorders. Our specialty is treating each client as a whole person. We help our clients learn life skills through treatment so they can return to their everyday lives with a foundation to build a sober life. If you are searching for the best treatment option for you, we can help. Call us today at (833) 801-LIVE to speak with a staff member about our program and if it is the right fit for you.

How to Avoid Using Substances to Cope With Seasonal Affective Disorder

Written by enlightened solutions on December 12, 2022. Posted in Substance Abuse.

Recovery from substance abuse is challenging at any time of year, but it can be especially discouraging during the long winter months. We often forget just how much impact natural light has on our overall mood until the days become shorter and cloudiness is the new norm. Increased feelings of sadness during this season are such a common phenomenon that it has a name: seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Those in recovery from substance abuse may already have depression. Seasonal depression, on top of that, can potentially increase the risk of relapse. Fortunately, support is out there. Learning about healthy resources can help you cultivate healthy coping strategies that don’t involve alcohol or drugs.

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD functions similarly to clinical depression. The symptoms – pervasive feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of energy for longer than two weeks – can overlap. For most people, the onset of symptoms happens during autumn and worsens after Daylight Savings time, when the days contain less sunlight. Symptoms can naturally dissolve on their own come spring, but the months leading up to that change in season can feel long and begrudging.

Other symptoms of SAD include losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, disrupted sleep, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. People in recovery from addiction may experience an increased temptation to use substances during this period.

The Link Between Seasonal Affective Disorder and Substance Abuse

It’s quite common for people experiencing addiction to have a co-occurring mental health disorder. The most common mental health disorders include anxiety and depression, which can be an underlying cause of substance use as a means of “escaping” negative emotions. Using substances as a coping mechanism for depression can train the brain to rely on those chemicals to feel better, altering the pleasure center to lose interest in other activities. When the effects wear off, it will require higher amounts of drugs or alcohol to reach that place of pleasure again. This is how addiction develops.

SAD and substance abuse can go hand in hand, though they do not have to. While the correlation between SAD and substance abuse exists, there is no definitive proof that one causes the other. These conditions are more likely to affect people who are already predisposed, either through genetics or their environment.

Building Resilience While Coping With SAD in Recovery

It’s a two-fold battle to simultaneously deal with SAD and substance abuse recovery. Don’t beat yourself up for struggling more during this season – you are far from alone! Here are a few suggestions to prioritize recovery during these literal dark days.

Attend Recovery Meetings

Local 12-Step meetings can be constructive for building community and finding encouragement. Chances are, you will not be the only person struggling harder with recovery during the winter months. This is an opportunity to talk with others who share that same experience.

Meet With a Mentor or Sponsor

Most 12-Step groups have a sponsor or mentorship program where you can meet one-on-one outside of group meetings for individual help. These mentors or sponsors are often further along in their recovery journey and can offer encouragement, accountability, and advice.

Practice Healthy Self-Care Habits

You’ll want to be especially kind to yourself during the winter season. Make sure you’re eating well, getting plenty of exercise, and getting outside when you can. The sun is still present even on cloudy days, and a little bit of natural light is better than none at all.

Holistic Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment

The most common treatment for depression is antidepressants. These medications are an effective solution for managing depression symptoms for some, though not everyone responds well to them. Some antidepressants cause unpleasant side effects in certain people, which your doctor should explain before prescribing them. These side effects can include weight gain, insomnia, and a loss of libido. It often requires tinkering with the dosage or changing medications more than once to find the proper regimen.

These medications can correct chemical imbalances in the brain but aren’t a permanent solution. That’s why Enlightened Solutions believes in developing healthy coping mechanisms along with holistic treatments that can be easily integrated into your lifestyle. There is no prescription needed for healthier life choices. Many people who have had little luck with prescription drugs find renewed hope and solid answers in our treatment program. The natural healing path may not be for everyone, but we believe it is the most effective.

Natural Treatments for SAD in Recovery

We offer a variety of treatment methods for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse that are natural and sustainable. While we are not against using medications, we discourage relying on them as the primary way of changing negative thought and behavior patterns. Instead, we recommend a combination of herbal supplements, experiential therapies, acupuncture, and more.

We believe that true clarity and peace are possible when the body is free of as many unnatural chemicals as possible. This is part of our comprehensive “whole-person” approach. Being unwell in the body leads to unwellness in the mind and spirit. Our treatment methods aim to heal you completely rather than specific parts and pieces. We teach our clients to find solutions within themselves, which are free to access at any time, without a prescription or the need for insurance. With this approach, unwanted side effects can be avoided.

Recovery from substance abuse is hard, and the dark days of winter certainly don’t make it any easier. If you struggle harder with depression and the temptation to relapse once you turn the clocks back, you are not alone. At Enlightened Solutions, we offer a variety of natural and sustainable treatments for co-occurring disorders, including mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and more. Whether you need to detox from drugs or alcohol or a rehabilitation program specific to your situation, we are here to help. If you’re struggling with SAD, addiction, or both, please call us today at (833) 801-LIVE and speak with our knowledgeable, compassionate staff to learn about your options.

5 Ways to Connect With Nature Through Horticulture Therapy

Written by enlightened solutions on December 8, 2022. Posted in treatment.

Most people enjoy getting outside and enjoying the beauty of nature. Aside from being abundantly beautiful, did you also know that it’s good for your health? Nature has intrinsic properties that help restore balance to our souls and peace in our moods. Whether you’re getting outside for a hike, paddling across a lake, or simply admiring a beautiful flower in your yard, you are not just feasting your eyes: you are healing your body and your mind.

This process is a form of horticulture therapy, which encourages healing from all types of maladies, addiction being one of them.

The Health Benefits of Being Out in Nature

Saying “nature heals” isn’t some new-age quackery; it’s legitimately backed by science. Being out in nature has been proven to heal the body and mind in many ways, from relieving depression and anxiety symptoms to lowering blood pressure. Spending roughly half an hour per day outdoors, away from screens and other technological distractions, is enough to improve your health a little bit each day. You can notice an increase in your health and overall mood just by making time outdoors a regular part of your day (just don’t forget to put on sunscreen).

There is also much to be said about exposure to natural light as opposed to synthetic light. These days, most of us get light exposure from artificial means, such as light bulbs and phone or computer screens. These forms of light can be useful but pale in comparison to the benefits of natural sunlight. No form of electricity can replicate the vitamin D that sunlight contains. Exposure to natural light elevates mood, boosts creativity, helps relieve anxiety, and reduces the side effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) during the long winter months when days are shortest.

How Nature Affects the Brain

For people affected by substance abuse and depression, serotonin levels in the brain need to increase in order to feel happier. Serotonin is a chemical that regulates mood, and clinical depression happens when your brain doesn’t make enough of it. While prescription antidepressants can help (“store-bought serotonin”), being out in nature is a natural way to enjoy this benefit. Natural beauty increases blood flow in the brain’s amygdala, which is where fear and anxiety are manufactured. Natural scenes, such as mountains, trees, ocean fronts, or flowers, activate the pleasure and empathy centers of the brain. Walking through these scenes, as you are able, decreases activity in the part of the brain that is linked to depressed rumination.

In other words, plants and nature activate the parts of the brain that make you happy. Do you need a better reason to get outdoors?

Horticulture Therapy for Recovery

Horticulture therapy has been used for centuries to treat all kinds of maladies, both physical and mental. It depends on the use of plants, as well as plant-based activities, for healing and rehabilitation. As an official therapeutic practice, Dr. Benjamin Rush is credited with its founding in the early 19th century. As a psychiatrist, Rush noticed how his patients seemed to improve in mental health as they worked with plants, which led him to prescribe them as part of treatment for mental illness.

Horticulture therapy is a highly accessible form of treatment, regardless of gardening experience. Anyone with a variety of physical, mental, social, and other disabilities can find plants to be non-discriminating and welcoming when working in a stable, calm environment. Plants also don’t care about cultural or ethnic differences related to race, religion, sex, or creed, which helps lend to horticulture therapy’s high success rate. When recovering from substance abuse or other traumatic experiences, working with plants can help re-develop core skills for adjusting to the world once again.

Types of Horticulture Therapy

Horticulture therapy is hardly monolithic. It largely depends on the facility and the clients in terms of what it looks like in practice. Fortunately, it is highly adaptable to different treatment centers and therapeutic needs, including but not limited to substance abuse treatment, nursing homes, and even prisons.

There are at least three different types of horticulture therapy that are most commonly used: vocational, therapeutic, and social.

Vocational Horticultural Therapy

Intended to teach skills and behavioral practices for jobs and workplaces, vocational horticulture therapy is useful for people pursuing careers in greenhouses, gardening, landscaping, and plant sales and services. Skills learned in this department include repotting, water usage, and moving plants from one space to another. It relies heavily on basic plant root systems and the environments they need to thrive. While mostly career-based, people also learn how to support themselves mentally as well as financially.

Therapeutic Horticultural Therapy

While all forms of horticulture therapy are beneficial for mental and physical wellness to some degree, therapeutic therapy is explicitly for that purpose. Activities may include repetitive actions such as digging or watering in order to improve motor skills and other physical functions. Making observations about plant growth, starting from seed to full development, helps sharpen mental health. Even the excitement that comes with observing the health of something you nurtured is beneficial to emotional health and establishing confidence.

Social Horticultural Therapy

Focused on plant growth as a form of building a support system, social horticultural therapy seeks to enhance quality of life. Participants will be advised about herbs and spices to both add flavor as well as cure minor maladies. The experience of growing, cultivating, and picking their own herbs helps foster confidence and community.

At Enlightened Solutions, we don’t just believe that being out in nature is good for one’s health: we know it is! That’s why we offer horticulture therapy as part of the treatment plan for our clients. Nothing quite heals the mind and body like natural light, fresh air, and the beautiful sights of the outdoors. Our treatment programs include teaching clients how to nurture themselves by nurturing living things, taking the focus away from the self. If you’re struggling with substance addiction and want to learn more about the programs we offer, please call us today at (833) 801-LIVE. Our programs are individualized and tailored to meet your unique needs.

Am I Putting Off Treatment?

Written by enlightened solutions on November 22, 2022. Posted in Substance Abuse.

Are you a procrastinator? Maybe you are when it comes to little things. Or, perhaps, you tend to put off the things that matter most. This may be out of fear of failure or rejection or for other reasons.

When it comes to making the call to seek treatment for addiction to drugs or alcohol, you do not want to procrastinate. If things have escalated enough to make you consider getting help, you need to take that first step.

Putting off getting help for a substance abuse issue can be extremely common. We will discuss some of the reasons one might do so below. You might relate to a few.

The unfortunate truth of the matter is that procrastinating when it comes to seeking treatment can be a life-or-death decision. One day can make all the difference when it comes to getting help. You could overdose or make a risky decision that could cost you your life.

Reasons People Avoid Getting Help

Asking for help is not always easy. Depending on the type of person you are, there could be a long list of undesirable things you would rather do. It is important to understand how strong the power of addiction can be and recognize the urgency of the situation.

A few things that might lead someone to put off treatment could include the following:

Denial
Shame or guilt
Stigma
Fear of loss

Denial

One of the more common reasons you might be hesitant to seek treatment is denial. You might think you have everything under control. Can you really stop using substances at any time? Do you have the desire to stop?

You might find yourself going back and forth about whether you actually need treatment or not. The word “addiction” refers to something that has grown out of your control. Could this really be the case for you?

If you are contemplating whether or not your problem is worthy of treatment, the answer is probably yes. More than likely, you have felt the inability to make the decisions you want to make regarding substance use and need some support.

Shame or Guilt

Shame and guilt almost always accompany addiction. We all have people we care about in our lives. Typically, the choices we make due to substance use cause some disappointment or hurt for those we love. This can lead you to feel ashamed or even embarrassed.

The fact that you have lost control can be cause for shame in itself. If you are someone who likes to feel in control, knowing that substances have stripped that away can feel very defeating.

Do your best to accept these feelings, but fight to overcome them. There is no shame in asking for help. In fact, it is a sign of strength and concern for your well-being. Those who love and care for you will support your decision.

Stigma

The stigma around addiction has evolved throughout history and still exists in today’s society. Luckily, therapy, treatment, and speaking up when you need help are becoming more widely accepted.

Unfortunately, the stigma associated with substance use disorder (SUD) is one that is still relevant enough to create some fear of judgment and rejection for those struggling with it. Do your best to let go of these fears. Putting yourself and your health first is commendable.

Fear of Loss

When you think about entering treatment, you might think that this will lead to great loss. You might be concerned about losing your job, friends, or relationships. At Enlightened Solutions, we offer several different program options, some of which allow for flexibility that could enable you to keep working. Of course, this depends on your specific situation and the level of care you need.

As far as friends and loved ones go, our family program encourages others to get involved so they can learn more about addiction and develop tools for healing and moving forward. Those who truly care will want the best for you and they will be supportive of your journey to recovery.

Don’t Wait Any Longer

These are just a few reasons you might avoid making the call to seek treatment for your addiction. You could make many different reasons and excuses to justify delaying treatment. Whether you are struggling with alcohol, opioids, benzos, cocaine, or other substances, you need to take the first step to regain control of your life.

Continuing to make excuses prolongs the problem and can lead to a more difficult healing a recovery process. Every day and every minute counts when it comes to seeking treatment for addiction. If you are considering making a call, it is time to take action. You have a beautiful life waiting for you in recovery.

It can be easy to put off seeking help for addiction to drugs or alcohol and entering treatment for a variety of reasons. Shame or guilt can keep you from confronting the issue and making the call. Even stigmas or fear of judgment can stand in the way. Perhaps you are worried about losing your job or someone you love. Delaying treatment will only make matters worse. If you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, we would love to speak to you about our programs and discuss how we can help. To begin your journey to recovery, reach out and call Enlightened Solutions today at (833) 801-LIVE.

How Can I Give Back During Treatment and Recovery?

Written by enlightened solutions on November 13, 2022. Posted in treatment.

What does giving back mean to you? For some, giving back might mean donating to charity. Others may consider giving back as helping someone with their groceries or paying for the coffee for the person ahead of them in the drive-thru.

Whatever giving back looks like for you, it probably gives you a sense of warmth and fulfillment to do it. During treatment and recovery, giving back is essential. Addiction has a way of making you lose your sense of purpose. You may lose sight of your goals and feel disconnected from loved ones and the community.

One of the best ways to reconnect and find your place in society in recovery is by giving back. There are many ways to contribute to your community while healing and recovering from substance use disorder (SUD).

Volunteering/Community Service

Community service tends to have a negative connotation. The truth is, however, that people may participate in community service for many different reasons. One of them, of course, can be to fulfill a court order. Some, however, choose to serve the community voluntarily.

For many, giving their time and efforts to better their neighborhoods is very rewarding. Working together to accomplish a common goal that will be seen or experienced by other community members can be very healing. At Enlightened Solutions, we offer a volunteer program through the Enlightened Farm that welcomes treatment recipients and community members to work together.

Giving back through our volunteer program allows clients to connect with supportive members of the community who share common goals and believe in the mission. An added advantage is an opportunity to learn farm functions and develop new skills.

Sharing Skills and Talents

During treatment and recovery, you may likely tap into some skills and hobbies you may have forgotten about. It can be common to neglect your interests and passions amid addiction. One way of giving back during treatment and recovery is by using your skills and abilities to benefit those around you.

For example, suppose you are a skilled singer or musician. In that case, you may volunteer to play for special recovery events or utilize your talents to support others during a music therapy session. Perhaps you have a green thumb and want to contribute by offering to teach a skill during therapeutic horticulture.

Through Enlightened Solutions’ employment program at the farm, we urge clients to learn new skills and build confidence in their ability to use them. Giving back to the program by putting newly acquired skills to work really becomes a full-circle moment that clients tend to feel great about.

Alumni Program

Remaining involved after completing your treatment program has many benefits. New clients can see that success through the program is possible, which gives them hope.

Alumni events at Enlightened Solutions occur regularly and focus on interaction and having fun. Allowing incoming clients or individuals who may be new to recovery to hear firsthand stories of success can be incredibly motivating.

Additionally, our alumni program encourages graduates of the program to remain connected. A robust support system is critical in recovery. Our programs promote relationship-building and encourage clients to form bonds with each other as they work toward a common goal of sobriety. By staying active as alumni, clients can continue to grow these relationships and support each other throughout recovery.

Benefits of Giving Back

Doing good for others benefits both parties. It helps the recipient, which could be a person, a group, or the community as a whole. Giving back also benefits the person doing the giving in many ways.

Finding Purpose

As mentioned, addiction can leave you feeling unsure of what is next and uncertain of your purpose in the world. Giving back reminds you that you can make a difference in the lives of others and your community despite everything you have been through. It can help ease the feelings of shame and guilt that so often accompany substance abuse.

Staying Busy

It is important to stay busy and productive during treatment and recovery. By participating in any of the activities mentioned above or by finding other ways to give back, you can occupy your time with positive activities. You will learn to replace old, bad habits with new, healthier ones. These can include eating well, staying active, remaining mindful, attending 12-Step meetings, and more. Along with these lifestyle changes, scheduling time to do something good for others is a great addition.

Enlightened Solutions offers a variety of ways for clients and alumni to give back on a regular basis. We understand the importance of connecting with the community and contributing in a positive way. Consider giving back to others during treatment and recovery; the benefits are endless and can remind you how much you matter.

Giving back while you are going through treatment and as you enter recovery has many advantages. Getting connected with others in the community is crucial when recovering from addiction. This can help establish a network of supporters who can encourage and motivate you when you need it most. Giving back can also restore your sense of purpose and keep your mind and body busy. Enlightened Solutions offers many opportunities for clients and alumni to give back to others and the community. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, we would love to help. To learn more about our treatment programs, call Enlightened Solutions today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Tag: Treatment