Addiction Rehab Help

Archive for the ‘Counselors Notes’ Category

Components of Drug Addiction Treatment

 

A variety of drug addiction treatments exist. They vary slightly depending on a number of factors. Some of these include the type of substance being abused, the specific problems and needs of the patient and the patient’s gender and age. All of these factors and many more determine the type of treatment best suited to each individual. However, there are some familiar components of all.

 

Whatever the particular method, most are based on science and medical research. Behavioral therapy and counseling are the cornerstones of successful treatments. Individual and group therapy help the addict to identify his triggers, understand his illness and learn coping mechanisms so he can make progress in his recovery. Learning how to avoid relapse and what to do if it occurs is an important part of behavioral therapy.

 

A good program should provide resources and referrals outside of the rehabilitation clinic. Many who are recovering from addiction need additional help to find jobs, receive medical and psychological care and continue making progress with ongoing counseling in order to avoid relapse. Those whose addiction has caused them to engage in high-risk behaviors need HIV/AIDS education and counseling so they do not pose a risk to anyone else and learn ways to protect themselves.

 

Medications in conjunction with other therapies are often recommended for patients addicted to opiates. Withdrawal from drugs such as heroin and prescription morphine can be excruciating and sometimes fatal if not monitored properly. Certain medications such as methadone can sometimes be useful in making the detoxification process less painful.

 

Recovery from addiction takes time. More often than not a one time, short-term stint in rehab isn’t going to be enough for the patient to abstain for life. Drug addiction is a chronic disorder characterized by multiple phases of sobriety and relapse. It is a lifelong struggle but with the proper care, it can be managed and overcome successfully.

 

If you need help finding the right drug or alcohol rehabilitation center for your needs let us help, we can answer your questions on different methods of treatment and effects of many types of drugs.

 

Call today; 1-877-744-3536

Parent Behavior and Teen Substance Abuse

A national survey taken annually by the “Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse” (CASA) has recently found that there is a direct correlation between parental expectations and teen drug abuse. 15 years of these annual surveys make them believe that a child who can make it to age 21 without smoking, using and/or abusing drugs is more likely never going to start up the habit. This year alone, 1,000 teenagers ages 12-17, (509 Boys and 491 Girls) were surveyed along with 452 of their parents. If the parent drinks openly at home it was found that 2/3 of teens that drink an alcoholic beverage at least once a month, are also getting drunk once a month. These teens are 18 times more likely to use Marijuana and are also at higher risk to associate with kids who use other illegal and prescription drugs.

Compared against teens with parents who do not openly drink in front of their children, it is concluded that teens that have seen their parents drink alcohol are twice as likely to use alcohol themselves, and three times as likely to use Marijuana. Also, kids with parents who say future drug use by their son or daughter will happen are 10 times more likely to use drugs than teens whose parents say that it will never happen. Around 96% of the parents surveyed thought that it was very important for their children to abstain from Marijuana use, but only about half thought it was a reasonable expectation of them to actually never experiment with it. And although, most of these parents think that marijuana use is harmful to kids ages 12-17, about a quarter of them think it’s a normal part of being a teenager.

The results of this analysis show that it is important that both parents, especially Dad, send the right message to their kids; convincing them to avoid alcohol and other drugs. The connection between Dad’s acceptance of teen drinking and teens that actually drink is very profound. It is noted that twenty-one percent of teens who drink say their father would approve of it, compared to the five percent of teens who don’t drink that believe there father would approve of their underage drinking. It is also perceived that teenage boys are much more likely to believe that their fathers approve of their drinking than that of teenage girls.

If you feel your son or daughter is abusing alcohol or drugs it is very important to seek the best treatment possible. The longer you wait the more difficult it is to solve.

To speak to a professional addiction counselor please call us today. 1-877-744-3536

Drug Abuse and the Elderly

 

You wouldn’t likely suspect your mother or grandmother of having a drug dependency, yet studies show that addiction among the elderly is climbing.

 

Older generations aren’t abusing illicit drugs like the young. Symptoms of anxiety and sleepless nights are being treated with prescriptions of Xanax, Valium and other benzodiazepines that are meant for short-term management of these conditions. Unfortunately, older patients are taking them daily whether they need them or not-much like pills they take for long-term disorders like high blood pressure-and the abuse is going largely unnoticed. Why?

 

Several reasons, actually. Doctors may be completely unaware or too busy to notice. Others find the task of confronting an elderly patient with questions that suggest she may be an addict embarrassing or distasteful. Still others may feel that since the person is old anyway, she should be left alone.

 

The main problem with elderly drug abuse is that they suffer from more psychological and physical issues than a younger person who uses prescription drugs other than for what they are intended. Depression is common among the elderly as they become more and more dependent on others. Whether they are abusing medications to alleviate uncomfortable emotional feelings or they have bad feelings because of the medications prescribed for other issues can only be determined by a professional.

 

The first step in getting treatment for elderly drug abusers is to be alert to signs and symptoms of the abuse. Family members especially need to be aware of what medications their parents or grandparents are on and monitor them carefully. It may become necessary for the family to intervene and for their loved one to seek inpatient care if the abuse has been long term.

 

The way back to recovery is a long road for the elderly. It will require the proper counseling, family support and time and patience. Loved ones need to be committed to helping her every step of the way and to proving long-term support and encouragement. There are many types of drug rehabilitation available today, and many programs that can truly work with the elderly. These would be centers that have Drs. And registered nurses on staff to help with any medical need that may arise during detox or any other time in the program. Contact a professional addiction counselor of advise on different methods of treatment and to find a program that fits the needs of your loved one.

 

Speak to a professional addiction counselor today; 1-877-744-3536

 

 

Or fill out the contact form below and a counselor will contact you.

 

From User to Addict

 

Many times the question is asked: How many times do you have to take a drug before you become addicted to it? There are no easy answers, but understanding how substance abuse affects the brain may help you to make wise decisions to avoid any and all casual drug use.

 

Illicit drugs change the way your brain functions. The number of times a person has to “get high” before the brain becomes damaged varies between individuals but the sad outcome is still the same. What started out as casual use becomes a constant craving that cannot be subdued unless the brain is fed more and more doses of the drug. You are now an addict with a haywire brain.

 

Here’s how it works. You ingest, smoke, and snort the drug. The brain responds with elevated levels of dopamine—the hormone that regulates pleasure sensory. When you come down from being high the dopamine levels even out again. But at some point after repeated drug use, the limbic system kicks in and the dopamine levels don’t even out—they plummet below normal. Now your brain craves the drug the same way it craves air or food.

 

The addicted brain feels depressed, lethargic and the user’s life seems hopeless. Now he needs more of the drug to bring the dopamine level up to normal again. The longer he uses, the more tolerant his brain becomes. He has to take more and more of the drug to reach the same effects and he has to take it more frequently as well.

 

In effect, the drug abuser, by repeated uses has completely changed the way his brain works. He has developed an addiction that can only be cured through long hard work. A quality rehabilitation center is the first step.

 

Addiction can be cured, but not over night, nor by just going through a short term detox program. Addicts can make a recovery through programs that combine counseling, behavior changes and learning how to take responsibility for the decisions they make in life.

 

For more information please contact “Addiction Rehab Help” we can help you find the best rehabilitation center for the needs of your loved one.

 

Addiction Rehab Help 1-877-744-3536

Do You Have A Drinking Problem?

 

Alcohol is socially acceptable and it’s legal. It’s also fine in moderation and even desirable in certain social settings and celebrations. Jokes and anecdotes abound that make light of getting drunk and the consequences of doing so.

 

Unfortunately because alcohol use is such a large part of our culture, abuse of it may go undetected until it’s too late. How do you know for sure if you have a drinking problem? The following questions will help you determine where you stand.

 

Has the thought crossed your mind that you should cut down on your drinking?

Do people criticize your drinking habits?

If people do criticize your drinking, does it make you angry?

Do you sometimes feel ashamed of your drinking?

Do you sometimes drink in the morning either to steady your nerves or “cure” a hangover?

Do you sometimes drink alone?

Do you hide how much you drink from others?

Have you ever missed work or important appointments because you drank too much?

 

If you answered yes to just one of these questions, you may have an alcohol problem. To help answer any questions that you may have please contact a substance abuse counselor. Talking to a professional drug and alcohol counselor you will receive the best information on alcohol addiction and methods of treatment. Taking advice from someone that is not a professional in the field of addiction is dangerous and may lead to prolonged suffering from you and your family.

 

Studies have shown that 80% of alcoholics that come into rehabilitation on anti depressants have been misdiagnosed. Alcoholics do not tell the truth about their drinking, and alcohol is a depressant when taken is large quantities; this makes it easy for doctors to misdiagnose depression for alcoholism and prescribe unneeded and often addictive drugs for depression when alcohol is the whole problem. When looking for an alcohol rehabilitation program talk to a professional counselor about the program you are thinking of going into before you go, they can help you find the best program for your needs.

 

To speak to an addiction counselor please call 1-877-744-3536   

Unsupervised Kids and Drugs

 

Approximately seven and a half million kids between the ages of 5 and 14 in the United States are latchkey kids. In today’s economy it’s a situation that can’t be helped as both parents or single parents must work full time to provide for their families.

 

Studies show that children left alone after school have a ten percent greater chance of trying drugs, alcohol and cigarettes compared to those who are involved in supervised activities. How can you protect your child?

 

·        Involve your children in sports, youth groups and other adult supervised, after school activities. If your child must be alone, make sure he’s busy with homework and chores instead of hanging out with friends.

 

·        Know who, what, where and when. Check up on your kids. A cell phone that is only to be used for this purpose can sometimes be effective in keeping track of your child’s whereabouts.

 

 

·        Ask children to call home or at your place of work at regular intervals whenever possible.

 

·        Spend whatever available time you have left in meaningful pursuits or conversations with your kids. Make them a priority, even if you get home late and feel tired.

 

 

·        Keep the computer in an open area with little privacy. Always know what activities your child is involved with online. Monitor their television viewing habits.

 

·        Talk to your kids about drugs. If you don’t, somebody else will and that somebody may be the person who introduces your child to drug use.

 

 

·        Enlist the help of a friendly neighbor or friend who doesn’t mind popping in to check on your child when he’s home alone.

 

Careful planning along with good communication about your expectations will go a long way in protecting your children from becoming victims of drug use and addiction.

 

If you have questions about questionable behavior your child is displaying please call one of our drug and alcohol professionals.

 

1-877-744-3536

 

Is Your Teen Abusing Drugs?

 

Recognizing addictive behaviors in teens is imperative in order for them to get the help they need. Unfortunately it isn’t always easy. Teenagers tend to be surly, distant and secretive in general. Knowing the difference between normal adolescent developmental behavior and something more sinister can be difficult but it’s not impossible.

 

School Daze

 

A sudden and drastic change in behaviors at school is often the first indication that something is wrong. Missing classes or skipping the day entirely, failing grades in students who used to get high marks and becoming disinterested in activities formerly enjoyed may be indicative of drug use.

 

Poor Health

 

Lethargy, sleeplessness or sleeping too much, drastic weight loss and lack of appetite can signal trouble in teens. There may be a legitimate medical reason so don’t rule that out altogether. Seek the advice of a physician if your teen exhibits any of these symptoms.

 

Appearances

 

Most teens are meticulous about their grooming. If yours suddenly becomes slovenly and unkempt, or goes for days without bathing and grooming, drug use may be to blame. But again, this is also a sign of illness such as depression so be sure to investigate further.

 

Privacy and Secrecy

 

Although part of the normal development of adolescents, extremely guarding their privacy and intentionally keeping you out of the loop could be signs of drug use. A sudden change in friends and the withdrawal from family members and activities and drastic changes in behavior are clear signs that something is up.

 

Money

 

Teen drug users often ask for more money but give very lame reasons why they need it. You may also notice money and valuable items missing from places that were previously safe to keep them. It isn’t difficult for a teen to pawn valuables in order to get money to buy drugs.

 

If you suspect your teenager is using drugs it’s important that you enlist the help of healthcare professionals trained to deal with drug abuse in young people. Time is of the essence and putting it off will only make it harder for him to recover fully. It’s not easy for a parent to admit her teen has a drug problem, but denying it could be fatal.

 

Finding help for teen age drug abuse

Finding the right Rehabilitation Center for a teenager is not something to take lightly; you need honest information from a professional addiction counselor that has experience in this area.

 

For help finding teenage addiction treatment please call us today; 1-877-744-3536

Are You An Addict?

 

Sometimes it isn’t easy to see when we’re looking at ourselves. Denial is common among those who abuse drugs and alcohol and their friends and family may not want to see the problem either. If you think you may be developing a problem with drugs or alcohol, or if you know someone that may be, ask the following questions.

 

Do I use regularly? Or do I use more than other people?

 

Whether it’s several times a day or even just once daily, if you feel that you have to have this drug or drink on a regular basis, you may be dependent.

 

Can I stop using the drug on my own? Have I stopped using drugs or alcohol for extended periods of time in the past several months?

 

Failure to discontinue use on your own is a sign of trouble. Casual users can take it or leave it. Those who are addicted cannot stop using and using the drug occupies their thoughts almost constantly.

 

Do I spend money I don’t have on the drug?

 

If you’re behind on your rent and your bills are going to collection because you spend that money to obtain drugs or alcohol, you need help.

 

Am I engaging in behavior I never thought I would?

 

Addicts often steal, sell belongings and resort to degrading practices such as prostitution in order to purchase drugs.            

 

Do I feel anxious when my supply runs low?

 

Those who are dependent on drugs work hard to keep a constant supply available. Feelings of anxiety or panic and distress often occur when the user realizes that his supply is dwindling.

 

Do I resort to getting high every time I’m faced with a problem?

 

Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol at the slightest provocation may be a warning sign. Almost everyone at one time or another has “had a few too many” when something devastating has happened in their lives. But if you reach for drugs and alcohol every time a problem is the least bit distressing, it may be a sign of addiction.

 

Is all my time focused on getting and using drugs?

 

Typically a drug addict will spend most of his waking hours chasing down drugs so he can get high.

 

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you may have a drug or alcohol dependency that needs to be treated. To find a quality drug and alcohol rehabilitation program contact a professional addiction counselor. Not all rehab programs are the same, there are many different methods of treatment and there is not one that is right for everyone.

 

To speak to a professional addiction counselor call 1-877-744-3536

Ritalin Nation: Use, Abuse and Treatment

 

Methylphenidate or Ritalin has grown in popularity over the past four decades. Not only is it the most prescribed drug for treating ADHD and ADD but it is also one of the most popularly abused drugs among adolescents and young adults. In fact it is estimated that 85-90% of prescriptions for Ritalin are for children and adolescents.

 

Adults suffering from obesity, depression, lethargy and narcolepsy are among the fewer recipients who receive Ritalin to treat their disorders, even though Ritalin is not indicated for such use.

 

The widespread availability of Ritalin, particularly in the United States adds to the potential for its abuse. Teenagers and college aged adults abuse the drug for its cocaine-like properties, often taking many more times the recommended dose to induce a euphoric affect. Crushing the tablets and snorting them or mixing the powder with other substances for IV use are the popular methods implemented by adults to abuse Ritalin.

 

In 2004 over 8000 cases of Ritalin overdose were reported in the United States. The majority of those were caused by intentional ingestion for the purpose of committing suicide or getting high. Clearly this drug is a threat to the well being of our youth because of its accessibility and acceptance as a viable tool in treating disorders that could be managed more safely using other methods.

 

Signs of abuse include: Decreased appetite, weight loss, irritability, and rapid speech, euphoria followed by bouts of depression, insomnia and paranoia.

 

Treatment for Ritalin abuse is similar for that of cocaine, methamphetamines and other stimulants. When looking for a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center for minors or adults you need to find a center that is not going to make the situation worse than it already is. Talk to a professional not just salespeople from rehab centers, learn the truth about  the centers from a natural third party that can help you find the help you need.

 

 

For help with ADD or ADHD medication abuse please call today we can help.

 

1-877-744-3536

 

NIDA: 12 Principles of Effective Addiction Treatment

 

 

If you are seeking treatment for addiction for yourself or a loved one, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has put together 12 principles for finding effective treatment. Consider the following before making your choice.

 

One size does not fit all. Find a treatment or facility that matches your own personal problems and needs.

 

Treatment should be accessible and readily available so the patient applicant doesn’t get lost.

 

Treatment must encompass the drug abuse, as well as physical and psychological issues and legal troubles.

 

Treatment should be flexible and grow and change with the patient’s recovery progress.

 

Adequate time should be given oneself for treatment. Three months is standard although some addicts may require more. Whether you succeed or not depends greatly on how much time you receive effective treatment.

 

Counseling, both group and individual is essential for learning new ways to cope with stress, learn constructive activities to replace drug using habits and learn to navigate interpersonal relationships.

 

Mental disorders often are misdiagnosed with addiction and should also be treated only after the addict is clean and sober for at least six months.

 

Medical detoxification is but a small part of the total treatment experience and is only the first stage in getting the addict on the road to recovery. It is useful; in decreasing symptoms of withdrawal.

 

Even if the patient does not voluntarily participate, treatment can be effective. Sanctions and enticements by relatives, employers and the criminal justice system can get an addict where he needs to be to get help.

 

Monitoring possible drug use during treatment encourages the patient to stay clean and should be a component of the program.

 

Assessments for HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted and communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis should be given. Counseling can help patients overcome high-risk behaviors.

 

Relapse is often an inevitable part of the recovery process and should not be viewed as a failure. On-going sessions and participation in self help programs after rehabilitation can increase the rate of success and recovery.

 

For help finding effective treatment for drug and alcohol abuse and to speak with an addiction conselor please call 1-877-744-3536