Celebrities Speak Out About Staying Sober in the COVID Pandemic

There’s simply no doubt that the COVID pandemic has made not only getting sober but staying sober harder than usual. From being isolated at home to being bored and unable to attend support group meetings, getting and staying sober during a pandemic can put even those with the strongest foundation in sobriety to the test. 

And, celebrities are no exception. 

During 2020 and 2021 some of these celebrities were candid about their personal struggles with sobriety during the pandemic. For many of these celebrities being open and honest about their own personal struggles can be difficult. However, the value that this transparency provides to others trying to get and stay sober can be immense. 

Here are some of the celebrities who not only spoke up about their own struggles with sobriety amidst the pandemic but also those who celebrated sobriety milestones during this difficult time. 

Stars Who Spoke Out About Sobriety During the Pandemic

1. Joe Rogan

Joe Rogan, famous American podcaster, UFC commentator, comedian, actor, and former television presenter, joined the movement Sober October in October of 2017. When the pandemic hit, he questioned whether or not he would participate. Rogan had a group of friends he traditionally did Sober October with, along with the other thousands of people across the globe who participated in it. However, in October of 2021 Rogan’s friends all dropped out of the challenge citing that the pandemic made it too hard that year. 

After questioning whether he wanted to or could stay sober through all 31 days of October, Rogan decided to continue his tradition of participating in the movement, Sober October. He posted the following on his Twitter account in regards to this topic: 

“Sober October update. I know many of you were upset that we were not doing sober October this year. Well, I’m in. I’m with ya.”

Fans responded with more than 550,000 likes on his tweet. 

2. Macklemore

Macklemore, also known as Benjamin Hammon Haggerty, first got sober in 2008 when he was just 25 years old. Sent to rehab by his father, Macklemore credits this with saving his life. In an interview on the podcast People’s Party With Talib Kweli” in January 2021 the famous rapper said the following, 

“If it wasn’t for my pops having the 10 or 12 racks that it was when I first went to treatment [at 25] and [his ability] to spend that on me, I’d be f—ing dead. I wouldn’t be here right now. That’s not to be f—ing dramatic, that’s just what it is. I was about to die.” 

Despite having entered recovery in 2008, Macklemore has had his own struggles with staying sober, as many do. Today, he says that he’s been in the rooms of recovery for about 11 years now. 

“Look, I’ve been in and out of the [recovery meeting] rooms for 11 years, I don’t know how much time I have today, seven, eight months, I don’t really count anymore,” he continued. “I’ve spent most of the last 11 years in recovery, and it’s made me who I am…”, he explained on Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast.

In addition, Macklemore revealed that he had relapsed during the COVID pandemic. The songwriter and rapper shared that when Dax Shepard, co-host of Armchair Expert podcast, had talked about his own struggles with staying sober it resonated with him. 

Macklemore said, “I really, really resonated with the episode where you talked about your relapse, and… I cried. It made me feel, as someone that had relapsed again, like a month or two before, that I’m not alone.”

He went on to say, “There is a therapeutic value of one addict to another sharing their experience, strength and hope [and] that has saved my f—ing life and continues to save my life.”

3. Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus, American singer, songwriter, actress, and television personality, got sober in 2019 as a result of vocal cord surgery. During that time of recovery, she began to look into her family history as it related to substance use, mental health, and more. She uncovered both addiction and mental health challenges that had existed in her family’s history. Cyrus said that this helped her to understand more about herself, including her own struggle with sobriety. 

In an interview with Vanity, the star said, “So just going through that and asking, ‘Why am I the way that I am?’ By understanding the past, we understand the present and the future much more clearly.”

But it hasn’t been an easy road for her. Cyrus also shared during the interview that she had relapsed, like so many others, during the COVID pandemic. She said, “I fell off and I realized that I now am back on sobriety, two weeks sober, and I feel like I really accepted that time.”

Celebrities Who Celebrated Sobriety Anniversaries During the Pandemic

1. Florence Welch

Florence and the Machine singer Florence Welch shared in February 2021 that she was seven years sober. Posting on her Instagram account on February 3 the following, 

“I am seven years sober today. I send my love and support to anyone who is struggling.”

2. Anthony Hopkins

This Silence of the Lambs star was proud and humbled to celebrate 45 years of sobriety in December of 2020. He posted this message on his Twitter account, 

“Forty-five years ago today, I had a wake-up call. I was headed for disaster, I was drinking myself to death…A little thought that said, ‘Do you want to live or die?’ And I said, ‘I want to live.’ And suddenly the relief came and my life has been amazing.” 

The star who has been in nearly 100 movies, went on to encourage youth struggling with alcoholism or addiction and said, 

“I have my off days and sometimes little bits of doubt and all that… All in all, I say hang in there. Today is the tomorrow you were so worried about yesterday. Young people, don’t give up. Just keep in there.”

3. Tim Allen

The star of The Santa Clause, Home Improvement, and Last Man Standing to name a few, celebrated 22 years of sobriety in March of 2020. But life wasn’t always so great for Allen. Allen opened up about what drugs and alcohol had done to his life in an interview with Parade. Allen spoke about how he had served two and a half years in federal prison for cocaine possession soon after graduating from college. But he didn’t get sober then. Nearly 20 years after that stint he got a DUI and went to rehab thus beginning his sobriety journey. 

Allen shared the following about his sobriety during an appearance on the Kelly Clarkson Show 

“It doesn’t happen overnight,” he said. “It’s a day-to-day thing…. But giving back what somebody gives you, that’s … I see this happen right here, this is a miracle. I see it in my particular program.”

If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol or drug issues, has relapsed during the pandemic, or wants to learn more about treatment for addiction, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. Contact our admissions team online or call us at 866-804-2098.

How Being in Service and Being Kind Matter in Recovery

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Aesop

Kindness can seem hard to come by these days. With all the pressures and stressors so many are facing it can seem challenging to reach out and be kind to others. Consumed with our own lives, responsibilities (that can seem endless), and dealing with personal challenges that each of us face can leave little time to think about others, let alone how to be helpful to them. However, both research and real-life experiences show that being kind to others can actually help you too. 

When it comes to recovery and acts of kindness, being in service to others is a crucial foundation for long-term recovery. This has been long touted in the rooms of 12-Step programs as well as in the 12-Steps themselves. In fact, the twelfth step says the following, 

“Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” 

In this final step of the 12-Steps, other alcoholics are being urged to share their recovery with others who are still sick and suffering. The phrase, ‘we tried to carry this message to other alcoholics” outlines a fundamental 12-Step principle; helping others. 12-Step programs often refer to this as ‘being in service’. 

What is Being in Service in Alcoholics Anonymous and 12-Step Programs?

Being in service in 12-Step programs is an essential component for healthy, long-lasting recovery. If you talk to any ‘old timer’ they will tell you that this connection with other alcoholics or addicts and trying to share what you’ve learned is one of the foundational principles of their recovery. 

And, when it comes to 12-Step programs, being in service can be pretty easy. An often-heard slogan in these programs is, “you have to give it away to keep it”. This means that in order to stay sober (keep it) you have to give away (be in service) the tools and tactics that help you get and stay sober. So just how do you do this in 12-Step programs? There are a variety of service positions in 12-Step programs. This means you can choose from a simple greeter position to a representative attending local and even national meetings. 

Some of the other positions in 12-Step programs are making coffee, setting up the room for meetings, being chair of the home group, being in charge of coins and celebrating sobriety anniversaries, being in charge of clean up after meetings, being an intergroup representative and many more. As you can see, this means you can get involved as little or as much as you like. You can start off in a small service position and then as you get more comfortable move into more involved positions. 

The first step is to become a member of a home group and see where they need you. Even though your service position may seem trivial, each act of kindness, each act of service really matters. Not only for others but to ensure your own sobriety. 

According to an article, Alcoholics Anonymous-Related Helping and The Helper Therapy Principle, 12 months after a three-month addiction treatment program, 40% of those with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) remained sober in that year as compared to 22% of those who didn’t engage in service. 

Additionally, Science Daily reported that in a study 94% of those with an AUD who helped others with an AUD stayed sober over a 15-month period.  And while more goes into staying sober, it’s heard time and time again in 12-Step programs, in rehabs, and in studies, that those who help others get and stay sober are better able to remain sober themselves–and may even be happier. 

Why Be in Service? 

One of the claims about those individuals with AUD or substance use disorders (SUD) is that there is a great amount of ego that needs to be overcome in order to remain sober. In fact, getting rid of this ego is a big part of the 12 Steps. Admitting powerlessness, relying on a Higher Power for help instead of oneself, admitting your faults and mistakes, and making amends for those mistakes are all pieces of slowly chipping away at an over-inflated ego. 12-Step programs drive the point home that the ego when left unchecked, can lead to a life of futility, addiction, and misery. 

Being in service, engaging in acts of kindness, and helping others is the key to getting the ego back down to the right size. As the ego subsides and those with AUD and SUD start helping others, miraculous things begin to happen–both to the person helping and those being helped. In addition to helping others get sober, being in service can also help to form connections and relationships with other like-minded people. 

This connection and these relationships are vital to sustain long-term sobriety. Research shows that having relationships with others and someone to lean on in times of trouble helps you to be resilient. And, being resilient is key in recovery. Life is going to throw challenges your way, when you’re helping others, forming connections, and staying focused on being in recovery, you’re better able to navigate these times. Being in service is key. 

Being in Service Outside of 12-Step Programs

As mentioned, 12-Step programs make it easy to be in service and to form connections in the fellowship of AA, NA, or other 12-Step programs. However, today, there are different types of support groups to help those in recovery from alcohol and other substances. And, it’s equally important–no matter what kind of program you’re in–to be of service and engage in acts of kindness towards others. AA has illustrated this clearly by being the longest-tenured support group for recovery from alcohol (and drugs) and supporting being in service as a fundamental component of recovery–particularly long-term recovery. 

If you’re in a support group other than a 12-Step program, or just trying to remain sober on your own, you can still engage in service and acts of kindness. This can range from helping an elderly neighbor and holding the door at a store to joining volunteer groups on your own or groups of service where you work. No act of kindness, no act of service is too small. 

Today, there are many groups in need of volunteers. You can visit your local food bank, YMCA, church, or other local nonprofit groups and see if they have a need. In addition, you can utilize this resource, VolunteerMatch, to find volunteer opportunities that are interesting to you and get started. If you’re super motivated and have time, you can even start your own volunteer group or event. 

Being in recovery and staying sober long-term can present ups and downs. When you choose to be in service, be kind, and help others on a daily basis those ups and downs will be more manageable. And, when you’re in service and doing the next right thing, many joys and surprises will come your way. 

If you or someone you care about is struggling with an AUD, SUD, or mental health challenge, Futures Recovery Healthcare wants to help. Our compassionate team has many years of experience helping those who want to get sober do just that. And, our vibrant alumni program stays engaged with clients long after they’ve left clinical treatment offering a community of support to help with long-term sobriety. Contact us today to learn more or call 

866-804-2098.

How Do I Meet Sober Friends?

Making friends can be hard. Most of us have memories of walking into kindergarten or first grade with butterflies in our stomachs unsure of what this new journey called school would entail. And, one of the most pressing thoughts was always, “Will I make friends?”. 

For some, making friends comes easily and for others, it’s just not quite as simple. But, almost everyone has been in a situation where they felt they were lacking friends or lacking real friends. Today, people often move with work or to try new places out, and, in many cases, these people don’t have any friends in that new area. So once again, you are faced with making friends. 

Whether you consider yourself good at making friends or not, this can be a stressful and sometimes discouraging situation. However, being open to change, including making new friends, can help make life fun and more enjoyable than you may previously have thought. 

As mentioned, today it’s not uncommon to move for work. But in addition to moving for work, there are other reasons why a person may be looking to make new friends. One common reason is that you are moving on from toxic situations. This often includes those times when someone is getting sober from alcohol and/or drugs. 

Making Sober Friends (with and without AA)

When someone decides to get sober, it can mean facing a lot of changes. From daily habits and even jobs to friends and hobbies, when you stop drinking alcohol or using drugs, you often have to change your entire life. 

It can be hard enough to learn to live without alcohol or another substance, but no longer spending time with the people you call friends can make the process even more challenging. However, this is often the case with people who are trying to stop using alcohol and drugs. They need to change friends. This can be a daunting prospect because after all, how do you make new friends? And how do you find friends who are sober? 

12-Step Programs and Friends

Many people use support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) to help them stay sober once outside of clinical treatment. These 12-Step groups not only have regular meetings to help support each other to stay sober, they often have social events. These events include anything from dances and holiday parties to bowling, skiing, and retreats. 

Getting involved in these activities is a great way to begin to make sober friends. What’s more, is that there are a lot of new people always coming into AA and NA who also are looking for sober friends. This can help when you feel like you’re the ‘new’ person. 

One of the first suggestions they make to you in AA or NA is to get a home group. Home groups are made up of members of AA or NA who support a particular meeting. These ‘home group members’ elect officers, meet regularly, and make sure that the meeting continues to run. Home group members do everything from making coffee and handing our anniversary coins to managing the group finances and making sure the meetings run smoothly. 

When you are involved in a home group, you’ll have the opportunity to work with others who are also sober. This often leads to friendships some of which will last a lifetime. Home groups also get involved in holding events, speaking engagements at treatment centers, prisons, etc., meeting with other groups to plan bigger events, and more. There’s no doubt about it 12-Step programs offer many opportunities to start to make sober friends. 

However, there are more ways to make sober friends than in the rooms of AA and NA. 

Other Support Groups

In addition to 12-Step meetings, there are other types of support groups for those who are looking to stay sober out of treatment. Here are a few:

• Celebrate Recovery 
• Refuge Recovery
• Recovery Dharma
• Self Management and Recovery Training 
• Women for Sobriety

Each of these support groups offers something a little bit different from the next. Do a little research on them, ask around about these support groups for recovery, and give the ones that interest you a try. These are also great places to meet sober friends. 

But specific support groups for people sober from alcohol and drugs aren’t the only way to make friends who are sober and like-minded. Today, there are numerous sober movements throughout the nation and world. These movements, like Dry January, Sober October, and more, have been the inspiration for many new sober events. 

Alternative Options to Support Groups

So if you don’t want to go the 12-Step route or need something in addition to the support group you frequent, then these latest innovations for like-minded sober people to connect may be for you. 

Sober Bars

Sober bars are popping up more and more these days. While most of them remain limited and in bigger cities, this trend seems to be growing. Sober bars are just what they sound like, a bar environment without alcohol. Some sober bars have games like darts and pool, while others have karaoke and bands. 

Sober Raves

It’s not often you see the words ‘sober’ and ‘raves’ next to each other but just like sober bars, sober raves are taking off lately. And, just as it sounds, they are raves but there’s no alcohol or drugs. There have been a number of pop-up raves too from groups like Daybreaker and MorningGlory. Daybreaker boasts being in 28 countries and 5 continents.

MeetUp

MeetUp is an online community where you can meet friends, explore interests, get support, grow your business, and more. With MeetUp, you can join a group or even start a group of your own. There are numerous locally-based sobriety support groups. This is a great way to make new friends and find even more support systems for long-term sobriety. 

Apps

In the age of apps for everything of course there’s an app for finding sober friends. In addition to apps for finding sober friends, there are dating apps for people who are sober. Here are a few of the sober apps: 

• I Am Sober
  • This app not only connects you with others across the world trying to stay sober, it also offers some helpful tools to not only track your sobriety but also help to motivate you to stay sober.
• Sober Grid
  • Sober Grid is an app that instantly connects you with sober people in your area. You can also connect with people who are sober around the world. With this app, you can stay anonymous and also have private chats. 
• Loosid
  • This is a dating app for sober individuals looking to find a sober partner. Loosid allows users to share whether they are sober because they are in recovery or because they choose to for health advantages and reasons. 

While making sober friends can be challenging, with support groups, new sober movements, and sober apps it’s a lot easier than before. Having a strong sober support group is an important part of staying sober long-term. If you have left friends and even family behind in sobriety, try some of these ways to meet sober friends. It may mean you have to step out of your comfort zone, but you can do it. Take some time to learn more about each of these suggestions and then take a chance. 

If you or someone you love needs help for a problem with alcohol or another substance Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. Our compassionate team has years of expertise and insight into addiction and what it takes to get sober and stay sober. Call us at 866-804-2098.

5 Easy Ways to Feel Better Now: How to Reduce Anxiety and Find Peace of Mind

Anxiety, depression, suicide, and ohter mental health issues are on the rise today. In fact, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about one in five adults in the United States experience some type of mental illness each year. What’s more, one in six youth between the ages of 6 to 17 years also experience mental illness every year. And, since the onset of COVID-19 more and more people across the world are experiencing mental health issues. 

It’s vital to seek professional help for mental illness, especially serious mental illnesses including those listed above as well as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, manic depressive disorder, substance abuse, and severe forms of depression and anxiety disorders. When it comes to mental health issues, you don’t have to go it alone—and you shouldn’t. 

Mental health professionals have a variety of tools and therapy techniques they use to help adults, adolescents,and children learn to manage mental illnesses and get back to the life they once loved. And while there is no replacement for professional mental health services, there are some things you can do in your daily life to help combat some less severe mental health issues. 

Here are five easy things you can implement into your daily life to start feeling better now. And, none of these five additions will cost you a dime. 

• Make a daily gratitude list

Gratitude and gratitude lists have become ‘popular’ over the last few years. And while many roll their eyes when it’s suggested to make a gratitude list each day, it really does work. When you are able to see the good in your life today, more good will undoubtedly come to you. From the very basic things like having eyes to see and air to breathe to more personal items like family who care, a safe place to live, a job, friends, and more, if you take a look, everyone has a lot to be grateful for. 

Making a gratitude list isn’t designed to make you feel guilty that you have these things and are still depressed or anxious, it’s purpose is to really help you begin to see the good in your life. Each one of us has numerous things to be grateful for each day. It may take a moment to change your perspective to see them but it’s well worth the time. 

There are many individuals who reluctantly started a gratitude list (thinking they’d have nother to put on it) who now practice this every day and swear by its benefits. All you need is a piece of paper or journal and a pen. Start by trying to name three to 10 things you are grateful for and then make it a habit to practice this each day. And, remember to give thanks for these items on your list. 

• Connect with nature

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), taking a simple stroll in nature can reap many positive rewards on the body and mind. The APA reports that spending time in nature can have the following effects on one’s body and mind: 

• Improved mood
• Decreased stress
• Increased attention span
• Decreased risk of psychiatric disorders
• Increased empathy
• Increased cooperation with others

Lisa Nisbet, Ph.D., is a psychologist at Trent University in Ontario, Canada who studies how nature impacts people. She stated the following, 

“There is mounting evidence, from dozens and dozens of researchers, that nature has benefits for both physical and psychological human well being,” said Nisbet. “You can boost your mood just by walking in nature, even in urban nature. And the sense of connection you have with the natural world seems to contribute to happiness even when you’re not physically immersed in nature.” 

Additionally, research shows that being exposed to green spaces results in increased cognitive abilities in both children and adults. But that’s not all. Research shows that being in nature also has the following effects:

• Increased happiness
• Decreased mental stress
• Increased feelings of wellbeing
• Increased sense of purpose
• Increased sense of life being meaningful
• Increased positive social interactions

You don’t have to spend hours in the mountains hiking to garner these benefits either. Studies show that walks in urban parks and green spaces, as well as hikes in the woods and other more rural areas, have equally beneficial results. 

So grab your walking shoes and head out if you’re ready to improve your mental health and cognitive functions. 

• Give back

It’s been said for years that when you help someone else you are actually helping yourself too. Taking time to volunteer in the community or even just lend a helping hand to someone in need not only can make someone else’s life better, but it can also make you feel better too.

According to an article in the Journal of Happiness, individuals who volunteer are more satisfied with their lives and experience better health when compared to their counterparts who don’t volunteer. What’s more, those who volunteer more often experience even greater benefits including improved mental health and wellness. 

In addition to making us feel good for helping another person, another benefit is that it boosts our social connections which lead to more good feelings. As mentioned, you don’t have to join a group to volunteer, you can simply make it a point to help someone out each day or week. However, there are many organisations that need volunteers, and being involved with one of these groups can help you to engage in this positive behavior on a regular basis. Not only will you be helping those in need, you can also form connections with other like-minded individuals who are also volunteering. 

• Read every day

While reading may not seem like a way to improve your mental health and feel better, research reveals it can be. According to research, not only does reading literature improve your brain’s cognitive functions, but it can also help to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia. 

Additionally, according to a study, reading can reduce stress by up to 68%. This study revealed that after just six minutes of reading participants experienced reduced muscle tension as well as slowed heart rates. Neuropsychologist and study co-author, Dr. David Lewis, stated the following in regards to reading and stress reduction:

“It really doesn’t matter what book you read, by losing yourself in a thoroughly engrossing book you can escape from the worries and stresses of the everyday world and spend a while exploring the domain of the author’s imagination. This is more than merely a distraction but an active engaging of the imagination as the words on the printed page stimulate your creativity and cause you to enter what is essentially an altered state of consciousness.”

Reading doesn’t have to cost you a thing either. Get back to your local library and grab a book. You’ll not only be helping yourself feel better you’ll be supporting libraries to stay afloat so they can continue to be resources in the community. 

• Spend quiet time praying or meditating

No matter who or what you believe in taking time each day to be quiet, reflect, and ‘pray’ can really go a long way. Getting connected to some type of higher power, whether it’s God, Buddha, Mother Nature, Universal Love, or another, is a great way to ward off stress, worry, and anxiety. 

Forming trust with a higher power and knowing that all is happening in your life for your good—whether it seems like that or not—can really help to develop your sense of purpose and provide a sense of security in a sometimes chaotic world. 

You can start by just saying a prayer, meditating quietly, following a guided meditation, or using a daily prayer or reflection book. When you begin to make this a habit you’ll see your life become calmer and more focused. And, what’s more, praying and meditating is something you can do anywhere at any time. This is a great tool to have in your toolbox to ward off feelings of stress and anxiety.

Each of these five ways to feel better now is easy to start and costs you nothing. While they are no replacement for professional mental health treatment, they can certainly boost your mood and help you feel better while you get into and continue professional treatment. 

If you or someone you care about is dealing with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. Futures offers a mental health program for adults struggling with mental health concerns. To find out more about our program or talk to an admissions counselor contact us online or call 866-804-2098.

God in Twelve-Step Programs: Do You Have to Believe?

Twelve-step programs and the concept of God may go hand-in-hand for some but it’s a common misconception that you need to be religious or believe in God to be a part of a twelve-step program. When it comes to 12-step programs and God, there’s a lot of room for interpretation–and it’s meant to be that way.

If you are living with an alcohol or drug addiction and want to begin the recovery process, you may be looking to 12-Step programs. When you consider these programs, you may be hesitant because you think you must be religious or have a strong faith in God for these programs to work. It’s important to understand that this simply isn’t true. 

The concept of God can be very different for different people. For some, when the subject of God comes up they are very comfortable and have a strong faith in God. These individuals may have grown up going to church or synagogue on a regular basis. On the other hand, they may have found their faith later in life. Either way, it is easy for them to believe in God. 

There are others, however, who may feel uncomfortable, even fearful when the topic of God comes up. Maybe they too were raised going to church but had a bad experience or didn’t like certain practices of their childhood religion and have veered away and lost faith. Still, others may not have been raised with any concept of God. For these people, believing in God may come hard. 

What’s more, when it comes to God and a God-concept, different religious groups believe steadfastly in different ‘Gods’. From Allah to Budha, there are different concepts of God that different religious groups believe is the only true God. 

As you can see, for a variety of reasons, there can be many different concepts of God. And for some, they don’t believe in a God at all. In fact, according to a 2021 Pew Research survey, about three in 10 Americans consider themselves “religiously unaffiliated”. What’s more, those identifying as Christians have decreased from around 75% in 2011 to 63% in 2021. 

Times are changing when it comes to religions and strictly adhering to concepts of God associated with these religions. However, when it comes to 12-Step programs, the understanding that there are different and unique concepts of God has been a foundation of the program since the start. 

12-Step Programs and a Higher Power

12-Step programs are support groups that help individuals struggling with specific addictions. Alcoholics Anonymous or AA was the first 12-Step program. This life-saving program helps individuals with alcohol addiction, alcohol misuse issues, alcoholism, and alcohol use disorder (AUD) find ways to stop drinking, get sober, and go on to lead happy and abundant lives. 

From this program, founded in 1935 in Akron, Ohio by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith, other 12-Step programs have grown. These programs are also very effective in helping individuals stop using alcohol or drugs as well as other behaviors. Some of the most common types of 12-Step groups include:

• Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
• Alanon
• Gamblers Anonymous (GA)
• Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA)
• Nar-anon 
• And more

Each of these 12-Step groups follows a version of the original AA 12-Steps. There are many similarities amongst these groups and some differences. When it comes to the concept of God, each of these 12-Step programs asks individuals to believe in a concept of God or a Higher Power that makes sense to them.

Many people mistakenly believe that to be in a 12-Step program, you must believe in a traditional view of God and religion. This isn’t true. In fact, in the very 12-Steps, the belief in a God of your own understanding is clearly stated. 

The second of the 12 steps states; 

“Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”

This illustrates how immediately in the 12-Steps the concept of God isn’t traditional. At this step, the person who wants to heal and recover from addiction is asked to simply believe that there is a Power greater than themselves. 

The next step, Step Three again encourages an individual’s own understanding of a God. Step Three states:

“Made a decision to turn our wills and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him”.

Again, the idea that the individual can form their own concept of a Higher Power and of God is clearly stated. Finally, in Step 11, the reference is made. 

Step 11 reads, 

“Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him…”.

As you can see the 12-Steps encourage the individual to form their own concept of God or just of a Higher Power, a power greater than themselves. 

For many, despite the openness of welcoming different understandings of God, they still find it difficult in 12-Step programs when God is mentioned. It’s important to realize that this is okay and, in fact, many others have been early in a 12-Step program and struggled with the same thing. 

What’s more, the founders of AA, were able to foresee this as a possible reason for some to stay away from AA. They wanted to speak to this issue and assure readers and those who needed help that having a shaky concept of God or not believing in God at all was no reason that AA couldn’t work for them too. 

In fact, an entire chapter in Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book is devoted to the nonbeliever. Chapter Four, We Agnostics, speaks directly to those people. In this chapter, the authors talk about those in the program who also didn’t believe in God or struggled with this concept.  

In this important chapter that is aimed to help the nonbeliever find a Higher Power so they can make the start at sobriety, the authors talk in detail about how many of the original members were agnostic or atheist. They go on to discuss how each one had a ‘spiritual experience’ that helped them come to believe in some type of power greater than themselves. 

Additionally, Bill W. and Dr. Bob understood first-hand how difficult it can be for some to face having to believe in a concept of God. Here’s an example from page 44 in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, Fourth Edition, 

“To one who feels he is an atheist or agnostic such an experience seems impossible, but to continue as he is means disaster, especially if he is an alcoholic of the hopeless variety. To be doomed to an alcoholic death or to live on a spiritual basis are not always easy alternatives to face.” 

They go on to reassure these individuals stating, 

“But it isn’t always so difficult. About half of our original fellowship were of exactly that type.”

If you are living with addiction to alcohol or drugs it’s important to understand that just believing that there is something out there in the world greater than you is all you need to do to begin the 12-Step programs. In fact, you don’t have to believe in anything to simply go to 12-Step meetings which in itself can be life-changing. 

There are many who have successfully become sober despite having no belief in a Higher Power to begin. And, many who attend AA and NA, know how disconcerting this can first be. 

“Many times we talk to a new man and watch his hope rise as we discuss his alcoholic problems and explain our fellowship. But his face falls when we speak of spiritual matters, especially when we mention God…”

However, many of these individuals formed their own concept of a Higher Power or God. These people have found that this is plenty to base a spiritual journey upon. And, this spiritual journey has been the starting point for a life of recovery from alcohol and/or drugs. 

No matter what your current belief in God or a Higher Power is, you too can find support to recover from an alcohol or drug addiction. For many, 12-Step programs are the key to ongoing and long-term sobriety. Programs such as AA, NA, GA, provided the much-needed tools to achieve long-lasting sobriety and a life beyond your wildest dreams. 

If you or someone you love needs help with a problem with alcohol or drugs, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. At Futures, we know that everyone is different and there is no one size fits all treatment program for addiction. We offer three different treatment programs as well as an inpatient mental health unit. Additionally, we are able to effectively treat those individuals with co-occurring mental health and addiction issues. 

To learn more about our programs visit Core, Orenda, Rise or call us at 866-804-2098.

What is Intergenerational Trauma? And How Does It Impact Addiction?

Intergenerational trauma, also known as multi- or transgenerational trauma, is defined by the American Psychological Association (APA) dictionary as “a phenomenon in which the descendants of a person who has experienced a terrifying event show adverse emotional and behavioral reactions to the event that are similar to those of the person himself or herself.”

This type of trauma can impact many people in the family including descendants further down the line than just the children of the people who have experienced the trauma. When this type of trauma has occurred, the children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren can be impacted. Many times, people mistakenly believe that only the person who lived through or experienced the traumatic event is impacted and suffers. Today, we understand this is far from the truth. 

However, the good news is that despite the many people in the family who can be adversely impacted by intergenerational trauma, each person impacted can heal and break the cycle associated with the original trauma.

Who Experiences Multi-generational Trauma? 

When it comes to intergenerational trauma and research into it, the focus was first on the following groups: 

• Relatives of Holocaust survivors
• Relatives of Japanese-American encampment survivors
• Relatives of those in the Vietnam War
• Relatives and members of American Indian tribes 

As more and more is learned about the real impact of intergenerational trauma, it’s clear that far more than just the members of these groups and their relatives have been impacted and continue to be. Today, we understand that the following events and situations can also lead to this type of ongoing trauma: 

• Living in extreme poverty
• Experiencing the sudden and/or violent death of a family member
• Experiencing childhood abuse including physical, emotional, and sexual
• Having a parent or close relative incarcerated
• Living with domestic violence 
• Having a parent or caretaker with an alcohol or substance use disorder
• Experiencing a natural disaster

Intergenerational trauma impacts many people today. And many of them aren’t even aware it’s happening. Essentially, when it comes to intergenerational trauma, the coping skills, mental health issues, and life skills developed from the tragedy or trauma are passed down from one generation to the next. Much like cultural habits or customs are passed down, these difficult to deal with traits associated with the trauma are also passed down. 

Examples of Intergenerational Trauma

There are different types of multigenerational or transgenerational trauma. And, as mentioned, many are suffering from it and aren’t aware. 

Example One: 

A Jewish woman who is a Holocaust survivor has learned to cut herself off from emotions and feelings in order to survive the atrocities she and her loved ones experienced. As a result, she continues to be distant and seemingly ‘cold’ to her own children. Her children then learn to be emotionally distant from others too.  They then have children of their own and both the parent and the grandmother are emotionally distant from them. This continues from one generation to the next until the cycle begins to be broken. 

Example Two:

A young man witnesses the violent and sudden death of a sibling. As his life goes on he learns not to get close to people so he won’t experience such deep pain again. In addition, once he has kids he becomes overprotective and develops anxiety worrying about if his kids will be okay or if something terrible will happen to them too. Then these children learn to worry about daily activities and develop their own anxiety about being safe. They go on to have their own children and the now grandfather hovers over the grandchildren, is anxious about what they do and where they go. This is then transferred to these grandchildren. 

Example Three: 

A teenage girl has been sexually abused by a stepfather. As the mother struggles to help her she isn’t able to be there for her because of her own issues with sexual abuse as a child. What’s more, her own mother was also sexually abused as a child. Not only are the coping skills and mental health issues passed down, but the person dealing with the sexual abuse doesn’t get the family support they need to heal because of similar unresolved issues of their caretakers. 

There are many types of intergenerational trauma and it can manifest in different ways. There are, however, some common ways that intergenerational trauma can show up in people’s lives. 

Signs of Intergenerational Trauma 

How each person deals with abuse or trauma they’ve experienced directly or that has been handed down can be different. One person in a family who experiences physical abuse may learn to overcompensate and people-please to cope and not experience it again. However, another family member who experienced the same abuse may become closed off to others and keep their distance from intimate relationships. 

The following list includes some of the most common signs that someone is living with intergenerational trauma: 

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep issues
• Low self-esteem
• Anger issues
• Self-destructive behaviors
• Substance abuse issues
• Hyper-vigilance
• Fearfulness
• Trust issues
• Intimacy and connection issues
• Isolation and withdrawal
• Emotional numbness
• Thoughts of death, dying, and suicide

As you can see, the impact of intergenerational trauma can wreak havoc on the lives of not just the individual who experienced the trauma but also on generations to come. In fact, research shows that not only is the trauma passed on through behaviors, but also may have a genetic component. 

Trauma and Addiction 

Substance abuse and alcohol abuse is also known as substance use disorder (SUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are commonly found with many types of trauma including intergenerational trauma. Many times individuals who are feeling a deep and a large amount of pain feel that they simply can’t bear it, that’s it’s just too much pain. In these situations, they may turn to alcohol or another substance to ‘take the edge off’. 

What begins as a way to help them cope and get through the trauma often turns into a full-blown addiction. This too can be passed down through both behavioral patterns and genetics. Oftentimes intergenerational trauma is mistaken for other issues. This can include substance and alcohol use issues, depression, anxiety, and more. When this type of trauma is passed down through several generations, the connection can sometimes be overlooked. 

Often therapists and mental health professionals aren’t familiar with this type of trauma and the impact it can have on the following generations. This is, in part, why this type of trauma may go unrecognized and thereby untreated for generation after generation. 

Treatment for Intergenerational Trauma

Trauma, of any and all types, should be addressed as soon as possible with a trained mental health professional. This therapist or counselor should be specifically trained in trauma care or trauma-informed care. This is critical in order to effectively treat trauma of any type. When it comes to intergenerational trauma, the patterns and behaviors may be so well ingrained in the individual it’s difficult to see it. That’s one reason why a trained mental health professional with expertise and experience in multi-generational trauma is essential. 

In addition, it’s important to take an honest look at the presence of other mental health disorders that may be exacerbating or complicating the trauma. This can include any type of substance or alcohol use issue. Often, this can tend to mask the underlying trauma, particularly if it is intergenerational trauma. 

Getting treatment for trauma and intergenerational trauma takes courage. Breaking cycles and patterns that have been in place for many, many years can be very hard. There may even be resistance in the family. However, not only does the individual seeking help deserve to be free from the pain associated with this trauma, the generations to come deserve not to suffer as well. 

If you or someone you love is living with any type of unresolved or untreated trauma—intergenerational or another type—Futures Recovery Healthcare is here to help. At Futures, we have a program solely devoted to mental health treatment. In addition, if an alcohol or substance use disorder is present, we are well-versed in treating co-occurring disorders like this. 

Learn more about our mental health program online or call us at 866-804-2098.

Does Rapid Detox Work?

When it comes to recovery and detox, many people want it to be fast and painless. This is particularly true for the detox phase of recovery. There are some rapid detox programs available, however, a fast detox doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best route to take. 

Rapid detox or one-day detox is mostly used for those individuals who have an opioid use disorder or other serious substance or alcohol use disorder. According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), about 10.1 million Americans 12 years of age or older misused opioids in the past year. NSDUH goes on to further break down this number into 9.7 million misusing prescription opioids and around 745,000 using heroin. 

While only a small percentage of these individuals get the help they need to overcome their substance abuse issue, many seeking treatment are looking for a fast, safe, and easy way to detox. And it’s no wonder. Detoxing from opioids, other substances, and even alcohol can not only be uncomfortable, it can potentially be life-threatening. 

What Is Detox? 

Detoxing is ridding the body of harmful or toxic substances. In this case, ridding the body of drugs or alcohol. When someone is going through detox, they often experience withdrawal symptoms that can be difficult to manage alone. And, as mentioned, detox can pose life-threatening issues. 

Detox and the associated withdrawal symptoms generally vary from one person to the next. There are several factors that contribute to these potential differences. Here are a few of the main items that contribute to how a person will navigate detox: 

• How long the drug or alcohol has been used
• How much of the drug or alcohol has been consumed during the time of misuse
• When the last dose of the drug or drink was taken
• How much the last dose or drink was
• Mental health factors
• Health factors
• Genetics

Once a person decides they want to stop using alcohol or drugs they will have to face detox. As you can see, once a person reaches this point, there is little they can do to control or influence how difficult the withdrawal will be. One important factor to keep in mind is that withdrawal symptoms are a major factor in relapse. When an individual is going through these difficult and uncomfortable symptoms on their own it can be too much to handle. This leads them to pick up the drug or another drink in order to ward off these hard-to-manage withdrawal symptoms. 

When it comes to opioid withdrawal, here are some of the most commonly experienced withdrawal symptoms: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Chills
• Sweats
• Stomach cramps
• Elevated pulse 
• Aching bones and joints
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Flu-like symptoms
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Tremors

As you can see, withdrawing from opioids can present symptoms that make an individual feel very sick. This is why it is recommended that anyone who wants to detox from opioids or any other substance should do so under medical supervision at an addiction treatment center. 

When someone is withdrawing from opioids, it can be referred to as being ‘dope sick’. These symptoms listed are what is meant by ‘dope sick’. This is also the reason why many people who are addicted to opioids look for a faster detox program. They want to safely get through this difficult stage so they can go on to work on their recovery and regain their lives. 

What is Ultra-Rapid Opiate Detox (UROD)? 

Some years ago the term ‘ultra-rapid detox’ started being used and the process of quickly detoxing from opioids gained much attention in the addiction treatment community. This method of detox is often sought-after by those considering stopping using opioids whether prescription or illicit. As mentioned, the goal is for the individual to get through the most difficult parts of detox without any discomfort. So just how is this accomplished? 

When it comes to ultra-rapid detox, the individual is put under general anesthesia for about four to six hours at the beginning of the detox process. During this time they are also given an opioid antagonist drug such as naltrexone. The goal is for the patient to basically be asleep or heavily sedated as their body begins to flush out the opioids. The idea here is that once the individual wakes up, the hardest part will be over. 

And while anyone facing the difficult withdrawal process may be attracted to this method, research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), shows that this method does not help in sustaining recovery for the long term. 

It’s also important to note that not only does this research show that ultra-rapid detox doesn’t help for long-lasting recovery, individuals who have achieved long-term sobriety often say the memory of the difficult withdrawal process helps them to stay sober. When a person does navigate the difficult withdrawal symptoms, it is often something they never want to experience again. This can help to support long-term sobriety (along with other factors). 

What is Waismann Detox? 

Andre Waismann is an Israeli doctor who founded the ANR treatment for opioid addiction and started the movement of a more rapid detox method. Beginning in 1993, Waismann began to use the ultra-rapid opiate detox method. He continued to use this method until around 1997 at which time he began using the Accelerated Neuro-Regulation or ANR method to help individuals manage opioid withdrawal and the associated symptoms. 

This method often referred to as Waismann Detox, places the individual in a sedated state in an intensive care unit. During this time, other specific drugs are administered that block opioid receptors. Additionally, the medical staff accelerates the level of endorphins and opioid receptors to achieve balance. These receptors are often the most out of balance from long-term opioid use. 

The combined method of having the patient heavily sedated during withdrawal and also encouraging the return to a more normal balance of opioid receptors can result in the person experiencing less severe and shorter-lasting withdrawal symptoms. And while this can be very appealing to someone facing withdrawal it’s important to understand that this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best road to sobriety. 

Getting Clean and Sober Isn’t ‘Easy’

Just about everyone who has an alcohol or substance use disorder wants an easier way to get sober. In the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book, as it’s often referred to, it is stated that many want to find “an easier, softer way” to recover and get sober. It goes on to say that this cannot be found and that those who attempt to do recovery in an easier way are often more prone to relapse. 

Getting clean and sober isn’t always easy but the rewards are well worth it. Not only does navigating detox and early sobriety take work but so does long-term sobriety. It’s important to understand that being sober and staying sober isn’t easy work. The people who maintain long-lasting sobriety make it a priority in their lives. That means that even though they may not want to get up and go to that AA meeting, they do it. It means that even though they may want to skip their morning prayers or meditation so they can sleep in longer, they get up and pray. 

However, the many individuals who have traversed this route to sobriety and stayed sober long-term can testify to how much better their lives have become. Getting sober isn’t easy and it isn’t always a straight line, however, anyone can get sober and remain sober with the right foundation and ongoing support in place. 

While ultra-rapid or one-day detox may sound appealing, you can’t really avoid the hard work, determination, and perseverance through tough times that staying sober requires.

If you or someone you love is ready to get sober and reclaim your life, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. Offering three different addiction treatment programs for adults; Core, Orenda, and Rise, Futures is ready to help you or your loved one build a solid foundation for long-lasting recovery. Talk to an admissions counselor today online or call us at 866-804-2098.

What is Codependency?

Codependency refers to a relationship that is dysfunctional and more or less one-sided. In the most simplistic terms, one person is the giver in the relationship and one person is the taker.  However, codependency is not that simple, and understanding what real codependency is, what the possible causes are, and how to overcome it are essential to establishing healthy, interdependent relationships. 

Codependency is a term that was first introduced in the 1940s. The term was used to describe the partners of individuals with alcohol or substance use disorders. Most often, back in the 1940s, these people who were described as codependent were the wives of alcoholics and those addicted to drugs. 

Codependency and Addiction

However, codependency can exist in any type of relationship. Codependency can exist between spouses, partners, work partners, parents and children, and friends. When this label first emerged the following were signs of codependency in addiction: 

• Making excuses for someone’s behavior
• Putting up with bad and abusive behavior
• Continuing to provide living essentials to someone who is not contributing
• Hiding the individual’s alcohol or drugs 
• Protecting them from the negative consequences of their behavior
• Trying to control or direct another person’s behavior

For example, a parent of someone who is addicted to heroin may continue to let them live in their house, give them money for things, pick them up from the streets, bail them out of jail, and more. In this case, the parent is said to be codependent and enabling the person with the addiction to continue using drugs. 

Another example is when a spouse continually bails out their husband or wife when they are drunk and embarrassing themselves. Covering for them, making excuses to their coworkers and employers time and time again are examples of codependency and codependent behaviors. This ‘enables’ the individual to continue their behaviors and alcohol or drug use because they never truly experience the consequences. 

These types of codependent behaviors were the premise of the formation of Alanon. Alanon is a support group that offers help to those individuals who have a family member or loved one who has an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder SUD). Al Anon helps those individuals who have a family member or loved one with an addiction to learn to set healthy boundaries and curb their own codependent behaviors. 

It’s important to note that codependency is not a clinical diagnosis, it’s not in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V), and there is controversy over the term itself. 

Signs of Codependency 

Since the 1940s, the use of this term and how it’s defined have grown and changed. Today, it’s understood that people can be codependent in relationships that don’t involve alcohol or drug addiction. However, in many cases of codependency, there are mental health issues present. 

According to research in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, there are four themes found in codependency. These are as follows:

• Need to control
• Self-sacrificing 
• Inability or difficulty in expressing and recognizing emotions
• Focusing on others 

While sacrificing for loved ones and focusing on their needs is part of healthy relationships, with codependency these are exhibited to the extreme. What’s more, some of these themes can even show up in a person’s relationship to themselves. 

As mentioned, there is no clinical diagnosis of codependency but experts agree on a number of signs of codependent people. In addition to the ones listed above the following are seen in the person who is the giver or caretaker in codependent relationships:

• Having an extreme fear of being rejected or abandoned
• Showing an excessive need to please others or be liked by others
• Exhibiting low self-esteem or self-worth that is dependent on others
• Finding it hard to say no even to others
• Apologizing or taking the blame when it’s not their fault
• Ignoring one’s own needs on an ongoing basis
• Avoiding conflict at all costs
• Being obsessively concerned about a loved one and what they’re doing
• Trying to manage loved one’s lives
• Doing things to make others happy even when they don’t want to do them
• Putting loved ones on a pedestal

When it comes to relationships, some of these behaviors are normal and considered healthy, however, when these behaviors go to the extreme and are ongoing, it’s a sign of codependency. Sometimes when there is a crisis these behaviors listed above are normal and healthy, however, when individuals engage in these types of behaviors with others normally, it’s a sign they may be codependent. 

What Causes Codependency? 

Many times people want to know what causes codependency in themselves or others. Codependency has been linked to growing up in dysfunctional families or home environments. Often, the person who becomes codependent had a parent with substance abuse issues or mental health issues. Sometimes, an individual with codependent behaviors had one or both parents who were either very controlling or neglectful. 

Vicki Botnik, a marriage and family therapist in Tarzana, CA, states the following in regards to codependency and upbringing, 

“Most contributing factors to this condition begin with parents who, for one reason or another, have poor boundaries,” Botnick explained. “And when your needs continually go unmet, you become unable to assert yourself or even know what you should ask for,” she continued. 

In addition to mental health and substance abuse issues, childhood trauma can also contribute to the causes of codependency. Here are some key issues that can lead someone to become codependent: 

• Experiencing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• Having neglectful parents or caregivers
• Having a caregiver or parent with a  personality disorder like narcissism, borderline personality disorder, etc. 
• Controlling and overprotective caregivers or parents
• Experiencing abandonment by one or both parents
• Having caregivers or parents go between being caring and loving to distant and unavailable
• Having parents or caregivers who are overly critical  and judgemental 

Being raised in these types of environments can lead individuals to ignore their own needs and wants. This is in part to keep loved ones from leaving and also to keep the peace, avoid conflict, and keep others happy. 

How to Overcome Codependency and Heal

Being codependent can leave you feeling alone, empty, burned out, and hopeless. However, it’s vital to understand that you can recover from being codependent. Therapy for codependency is a great place to start the healing process. Additionally, engaging in self-care is vital to break the cycle of codependency. 

Therapy can help individuals focus on not only recognizing their own codependent behaviors but also teach them how to set healthy boundaries, how to learn to take care of themselves, ways to overcome people-pleasing tendencies, and how to address any underlying mental health issues. 

As mentioned, along with therapy, learning how to take good care of one’s self is vital in overcoming codependency. This can include taking time to recognize and acknowledge one’s emotions and feelings, reflecting on these feelings, learning to spend time doing things you find enjoyable, recharging your own batteries in healthy ways, and taking time to develop your own hobbies and interests. 

Being codependent can be lonely and exhausting. After all, it can seem like all you do is give and all your loved ones do is take. And, in truly codependent relationships, this is not far from the truth. However, recognizing that you may be codependent is the first step to healing. There are many therapists and programs that can help with overcoming codependency. If you have a loved one who has an addiction to alcohol or drugs, Alanon is a great place to start. This support group is free, anonymous, and has years upon years of experience helping others to overcome codependency. 

Futures Recovery Healthcare supports all those who are ready to begin healing from alcohol and substance abuse. In addition, Futures programming involves the families of those with addiction issues so they too can heal and reclaim their lives without alcohol, drugs, or codependency. To learn more about our programs explore online or call us at 866-804-2098

What is Trauma-informed Care?

Trauma-informed care has been gaining much attention recently. The need for healthcare professionals to understand trauma and how they can adapt their care procedures to be sensitive to patients’ past traumas is of paramount importance. Trauma is more common than many believe. 

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), more than two-thirds of children have experienced at least one traumatic event by 16 years old. What’s more, in 2015 reports indicated there were about 683,000 children who had been abused or neglected. That equates to about 9.2 children out of every thousand. 

That’s a lot of children who are not only being abused but growing up with the scars and difficulties associated with trauma in childhood. The statistics surrounding childhood neglect and abuse are staggering. Here of some from SAMHSA to consider:

• Youth who needed hospital treatment each year for abuse and assault would fill nine stadiums
• One in five high schoolers were bullied at school and one in six were bullied online
• 12% of physically ill youth have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• 54% of families in the United States have experienced some type of disaster

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports the following when it comes to trauma: 

• One in four youth experience some type of maltreatment including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse
• One in four women have experienced domestic violence
• One in five women have been raped (12% were under 10 years old)
• One in 71 men have been raped (30% were under 10 years old)

As illustrated, trauma impacts many more than most people are aware of today. So just what is trauma? There are different types of trauma that individuals experience. However, all traumatic experiences, particularly in childhood can cause issues that last a lifetime—without the proper treatment. 

What Is Trauma? 

While there are no hard and fast guidelines for what is included in trauma and traumatic experiences, the following are some of the most common types of trauma experienced: 

• Experiencing or witnessing emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
• Being neglected in childhood
• Serving in the military and witnessing violence
• Experiencing or seeing violence in the community
• Having a family member with a mental health disorder
• Having a family member with a substance use disorder
• Living in poverty or experiencing systemic discrimination

SAMHSA defines trauma as follows: 

“Individual trauma results from an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as physically or emotionally harmful or life-threatening and that has lasting adverse effects on the individual’s functioning and mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being.”

Experiencing trauma—at any age—can lead to PTSD as well as other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. When children experience childhood trauma, they too can develop issues as well. Childhood trauma can lead to substance abuse and addiction. In fact, according to research from the National Center for Biotechnology (NCBI), it was found that in adolescents being treated for substance abuse, more than 70% had experienced some type of trauma. 

This means that not only do those who experience childhood trauma have an increased chance of developing PTSD and other mental health disorders, they also have a higher risk for developing an addiction to alcohol or drugs. 

What are Signs of Trauma in Children and Adults?

It’s vital to be able to recognize signs of trauma and abuse in youth and adults. Some of the ways trauma and abuse present in youth are as follows: 

Children aged 1-5 years: 

• Crying and screaming frequently
• Being upset and fearful when separated from parents or caregivers
• Having poor eating habits; eating too much or not eating
• Having bad dreams or nightmares

Elementary school-aged children:

• Exhibiting anxiousness or fearfulness
• Feeling guilty or experiencing shame
• Experiencing troubles with sleep
• Having difficulty focusing and concentrating

Middle and High school-aged youth:

• Feeling alone or depressed
• Developing eating disorders
• Engaging in self-harm behaviors
• Starting to use alcohol or drugs
• Engaging in sexually promiscuous or risky sex behaviors

Adults: 

• Having significant and often overwhelming fears
• Being depressed
• Feeling guilty or experiencing shame
• Experiencing frequent feelings of anger
• Having mood swings
• Being irritable

As mentioned, there are no set rules that define what is and what isn’t considered trauma. This is the same for signs of trauma in kids and signs of trauma in adults. While the above-listed are some of the more common signs, there are others that indicate trauma in children and adults. It’s important not to see these as the only types of trauma in children and adults. 

Trauma in life can not only impact mental health but studies also show that those who experience trauma in childhood also have detrimental impacts on their health. According to SAMHSA,  experiencing childhood trauma increases the risk for developing the following health issues: 

• Chronic lung disease
• Chronic heart disease
• Liver disease
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Alcohol abuse
• Substance abuse
• Addiction to tobacco

When unhealed trauma leads to substance or alcohol abuse and disorders and other mental health issues like anxiety and depression it is referred to as having a co-occurring disorder. Co-occurring disorders are common in those with substance and alcohol abuse issues. Getting treatment for both the substance or alcohol issues as well as the other mental health disorders, like PTSD, is highly recommended to increase the individual’s chance at long-term recovery. 

How Trauma-informed Care Is Best Implemented

When it comes to healthcare practitioners implementing trauma-informed care a basic shift in approach is suggested. SAMHSA states that the shift should be from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?”. This subtle shift can make a big difference in proper identification and thus treatment of trauma in both youth and adults. In addition, healthcare professionals should also implement this shift in focus by the following: 

• Being aware of how widespread trauma is and understanding different ways to recover and heal
• Being able to recognize signs and symptoms of trauma in patients as well as staff
• Integrating trauma knowledge into policies, procedures, etc. 
• Being aware of potential patient traumas and actively seeking not to recreate similar environments that could trigger patients and their past or current traumas

When it comes to implementing trauma-informed care it’s important to realize that all those who interact with the patients from the receptionist to the physician should be educated on trauma, how it presents, and how to be sensitive to these situations. An entire organization from the bottom up needs to be trained in trauma-informed care in order to truly be effective. 

SAMHSA states there are five main ingredients in trauma-informed care. These are as follows:

• Directing and communicating about the transformation process
• Having patients be active participants in the planning
• Training all staff members on trauma-informed care
• Creating a safe environment
• Preventing secondary trauma stress in staff

For more information on these five key ingredients read the whitepaper from SAMHSA, Key Ingredients for Trauma-Informed Care Implementation. 

Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters

Trauma-informed care is important for numerous reasons. Not only does this type of care provide the opportunity for patients to have a more active role in their healthcare (both physical and mental) it also can improve long-term health outcomes. Trauma-informed care can also help healthcare professionals by decreasing burnout and turnover rates. 

It’s vital to realize that many times healthcare settings can re-traumatize individuals who have experienced trauma in childhood or as adults. This results in patients not getting the treatment and care they need to heal both physically and emotionally. When trauma-informed care is implemented correctly, the environment will promote healing and recovery instead of unintentionally re-traumatizing patients. 

If you or someone you care about has experienced childhood or adult trauma it’s important that you have the opportunity to not only heal but have supportive, understanding, and compassionate care as you recover. If you have developed an alcohol or substance abuse issue in your attempts to ease the pain and cope, you deserve to be treated in an environment supportive of you. 

At Futures Recovery Healthcare we treat each patient with compassion, respect, and dignity. Many of our staff are in recovery themselves and have also experienced trauma in childhood and as adults. If you want to learn more about Futures and our programs, reach out online or call us at 866-804-2098. We’re here for you and your loved ones. 

Marijuana and the Brain: Are Adolescents At Risk?

Marijuana, also known as weed, pot, cannabis, herb, grass, bud, and more, is a psychoactive drug sourced from the cannabis plant. The marijuana plant is native to Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For many years, marijuana has been used both therapeutically and recreationally. Today, the recreational use of this drug is legal in 18 states and 13 additional states have decriminalized its use.

Across these numerous states, there are dispensaries that distribute marijuana. Depending on which state you’re in, the rules for obtaining cannabis from these stores are different. In some states, all you need is a driver’s license or government ID, however, in other states, you need to get an approved medical card through a physician. But, no matter where you live, the availability of weed has increased.

This increase in both the availability of marijuana as well as the decriminalization of it has made its use rise over the last decade. In fact, according to a Gallup Poll and article in U.S. News and World Report, about 49% of American adults have tried marijuana at least one time. Just 50 years ago, the number of Americans 18 years and older who had tried weed was just 4%. With this ease of accessibility, many are becoming frequent and heavy users of the substance.

When it comes to youth in America, the percentage who say they smoke pot is growing too. Of those in the Generation X group, 10% report smoking weed regularly. However, the Millennials report an even higher rate of cannabis consumption with 20% of this generation reporting they smoke marijuana regularly.

The effects of marijuana have been touted for its relaxation, anxiety-relieving, and pain-reducing abilities. However, there has been rising concern in regards to youth and teen marijuana use. While the effects of adolescent marijuana use aren’t fully understood, research shows that it can have adverse effects on the developing brain of youth.

WEED AND THE BRAIN

The main component in marijuana that causes the relaxing and euphoric effects is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol more commonly known as THC. This chemical component found in weed is in the bud or flowers it produces as well as in resin produced by the leaves and buds. In addition to THC, there are another 500 chemicals in weed and about 100 compounds related to cannabis called cannabinoids. These compounds produce varied effects in users. 

And there are a lot of cannabis users across the nation—particularly amongst vulnerable youth.

YOUTH AND WEED CONSUMPTION

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), reports that in 2018, 11.8 million American youth reported using recreational marijuana in the past year. This number is steadily growing along with the younger age groups, particularly with school students using it more than ever before. Reports also show that a staggering 4% of all twelfth graders say they smoke weed daily. The advent and popularity of vaping and the ability to use vape pens more inconspicuously have made it easier to indulge in more frequent marijuana use. In addition, the legalization (to one degree or another) in numerous states has made weed more readily available. And while youth are unable to purchase marijuana without a parent’s consent, they are more able to get it from others than ever before.

As mentioned, weed can be consumed by smoking it via vape pens. It can also be smoked in paper (joints or blunts) as well as through glass pipes or water bubblers. In addition, today, there are marijuana products sold as edibles that individuals can consume weed through food and beverages. Not only is it easier to get marijuana today, it’s also much easier to consume.

When marijuana is smoked, the chemicals and compounds enter the body via the lungs and go into the bloodstream. From there, the THC and other active chemicals are quickly carried to the brain. Effects are felt almost immediately with smoking. If weed is consumed via foods and drinks, it can take about 30 minutes to one hour for the effects to begin. This is because with this method of consumption it must pass through the digestive system. In some cases, this delay in effects can cause the user to consume more and then end up having more in their bodies than they’d like.

HOW MARIJUANA AFFECTS THE BODY

The effects of smoking weed can vary from person to person as well as from batch to batch of weed. Each has different doses of THC. In addition, marijuana contains different terpenes. These terpenes vary and each can cause different effects. Today, the potency of weed can be very high. Some of the most common effects of cannabis use are:

• Relaxation
• Euphoria
• Mood changes
• Altered senses
• Altered time perception
• Impaired body movement
• Decreased ability to problem solve
• Impaired memory
• Hallucinations
• Delusions

In addition to these short-term effects, harmful effects of long-term use of marijuana can result in the following:

• Impaired driving and an increased risk of accidents
• Increased rates of respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis
• Increased risk of psychiatric disorders and chronic psychosis disorders
• Increased risk of anxiety disorders
• Increased risk of depression
• Increased risk of heart attack
• Increased risk of developing cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (extreme nausea and vomiting)

The Effects of Marijuana on the Teenage and Young Adult Brain

Research has suggested that regular cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood may have negative effects on brain development and cognitive function. THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, can interfere with the maturation of the prefrontal cortex, a brain region that is important for decision-making, impulse control, and other cognitive processes. Animal studies have also shown that exposure to THC during adolescence can lead to structural and functional changes in the brain, which can result in impaired learning and memory.

Some research has suggested that heavy cannabis use during adolescence may contribute to lower cognitive function in adulthood, including decreased attention, memory, and learning ability. Additionally, regular cannabis use during adolescence has been linked to an increased risk for psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, in some individuals.

It is important to note that the effects of cannabis on the brain can vary depending on the individual, the amount and frequency of use, and other factors. More research is still needed to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabis use on brain development and cognitive function in young people.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN ADOLESCENTS SMOKE MARIJUANA?

When it comes to youth, there are much greater risks of marijuana use. While the drug grows in popularity, the dangers of marijuana still exist. If a person starts consuming weed in their youth they have an increased risk of many detrimental effects. It’s important to note that scientists say that the brain doesn’t reach full development until about the age of 24 years. Using marijuana or any drug before that time can impede brain development. Many of these consequences are irreversible.

The way marijuana works in the brain is through endogenous cannabinoids like anandamide. These chemicals have a very similar structure to naturally occurring neurotransmitters in the brain. The brain recognizes this structure and then acts on signals being sent from these chemicals from marijuana. NIDA explains how weed then attaches to the brain’s neurons in this way:

“Because of this similarity, THC is able to attach to molecules called cannabinoid receptors on neurons in these brain areas and activate them, disrupting various mental and physical functions and causing the effects described earlier. The neural communication network that uses these cannabinoid neurotransmitters, known as the endocannabinoid system, plays a critical role in the nervous system’s normal functioning, so interfering with it can have profound effects.”

These profound effects are more significant for youth.

In addition to acting on the brain in this way, THC also activates the brain’s reward systems. This leads to the release of dopamine. Dopamine is one of the ‘feel good’ chemicals in the brain. When dopamine is released naturally, it brings on pleasant feelings from a behavior such as eating or having sex. When dopamine is released in large surges from drug use such as marijuana, it can result in the brain slowing its own natural dopamine production. This can lead to the user needing to smoke weed in order to get those same previously naturally occurring feelings of pleasure. As this occurs, the brain begins to become dependent on weed. As use continues and tolerance grows the individual needs to consume more just to feel normal. This is where addiction begins to take hold. The adolescent brain is much more vulnerable to becoming addicted. From affecting cognitive functions to developing substance abuse disorder, the risk factors associated with adolescent users have left health professionals across the country concerned.

When it comes to youth, the impacts on the brain are of concern.

In general, research has shown that regular marijuana use by anyone can lead to the following:

• Impaired thinking and cognitive development
• Impaired ability to problem solve
• Impaired ability to learn
• Impaired ability to do complex tasks

However, the teenage brain is far more detrimentally impacted. There is evidence that suggests that some of these issues caused in the brain are permanent. This is particularly true when the individual begins consuming weed before their brain has fully developed. These include:

• Decreased cognitive abilities
• Decreased IQ
• Issues with learning (continuing later in life)
• Issues with memory (continuing later in life)
• Functional and structural changes in the hippocampus
• Altered reward system (making the user more likely to use drugs)
• Reduced brain volume in certain areas (memory, learning, impulse control)
• Decreased verbal IQ

It’s important to understand when it comes to marijuana and adolescent brain development; the effects can be long-lasting and cause significant issues down the road. As the brain is still developing, the changes that occur from weed use can detrimentally impact its ability to develop properly.

One of the biggest concerns with this is the adolescent brain’s reward circuit. Studies indicate that when this reward circuit is hijacked by early drug use, including marijuana, youth are more vulnerable to becoming addicted to recreational drugs. In addition, when tolerance begins at a younger age, the user may seek out other, more dangerous illicit drugs to get that same initial high that has become elusive. It’s vital to understand that the teen brain can become more quickly addicted to marijuana than the adult or even college-aged brain.

There is no conclusive evidence on what the specific effects of smoking marijuana are in youth or in adulthood. As mentioned, the short-term effects vary by strain to strain and also person to person. One thing is certain, consuming weed or any drug at an earlier age before the brain has fully developed can hurt the youth of our nation. It’s imperative to educate youth about these long-term and possibly permanent effects of smoking weed on the teen and adolescent brain.

If you or someone you love is using marijuana, alcohol, or another substance and you’re concerned contact Futures Recovery Healthcare. At Futures, we compassionately treat adults with alcohol use disorders, substance use disorders, and mental health issues like mood disorders and anxiety disorders. Contact us online to learn more about our addiction treatment and mental health programs or call us at 866-804-2098.

What Are the Stages of Alcoholism?

Millions of Americans are living with alcoholism or alcohol use disorder (AUD). In fact, according to data from The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), almost 15 million Americans over the age of 12 years have an AUD. In addition, more people die each year from alcohol-related effects than from drug overdoses. According to The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 95,000 people die each year from alcohol-related causes. 

Our nation has an alcohol problem that is largely being overlooked. However, if you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol dependence, you simply can’t overlook it forever. When it comes to alcoholism many people have questions. Whether you are concerned about yourself or someone you love, you probably want to know more so you can determine whether you or your loved one has a problem with alcohol. 

Sometimes it’s difficult to determine if you (or your loved one) actually have an issue. In addition to high-functioning alcoholics, it’s important to understand that not every case of AUD looks like the next. In fact, AUD and addiction are very personal and often unique experiences. What’s more, AUD and addiction are both progressive diseases. This means they get worse over time, never better. 

Someone may begin drinking and not experience many of the symptoms they’ve typically considered to be signs of alcoholism. However, they may in fact be at an earlier stage of alcoholism or AUD. If they continue to drink, they almost undoubtedly will reach the later stages. 

So just what are the stages of alcoholism or addiction? If you do a quick search for ‘the stages of alcoholism’ or ‘the stages of addiction’ you’ll receive a mix and variety of results. There are different schools of thought or philosophies on what the exact stages of alcoholism are. No matter which you or your health care practitioner see as accurate, all have the same or very similar symptoms and patterns. 

Diagnostics and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders-V (DSM-V) and Alcoholism Stages

The DSM-V is the manual published by the American Psychiatric Association. It is a diagnostic tool with standard classifications of mental health disorders used by mental health professionals to diagnose certain mental health conditions. In the DSM-V, alcohol use disorder is outlined as it progresses in the user. Formerly alcohol abuse in the DSM-IV, this new diagnosis of AUD also has a severity scale of mild, moderate, and severe. 

Here are the criteria as outlined by the DSM-V for alcohol use disorder also known as alcoholism:

• Drank more than planned or ended up drinking longer than planned?
• Tried to cut down on or stop drinking and were unsuccessful?
• Spent significant time drinking or recovering from the effects of drinking (hangover)
• Craved a drink so much that it consumed your thoughts?
• Experienced drinking (or the aftereffect of drinking) causing issues with taking care of your responsibilities such as family, work, school, etc.? 
• Continued to drink despite problems being caused?
• Increased the amount of alcohol you drink to get the same effect?
• Experienced alcohol withdrawal symptoms when the effects of alcohol wore off? (Sleeping issues, shakiness, nausea, sweating, racing heart, seizure)
• Cut back on activities you used to enjoy to spend more time drinking? 
• Found yourself in high-risk or dangerous situations when you were drinking? (driving, unsafe sex, being in a dangerous area, etc.)
• Continued drinking despite the issues it causes such as health problems, depression or anxiety, or after having a blackout? 

The diagnosis is based on how these 11 questions are answered. According to the DSM-V criteria, if you answer ‘yes’ to at least two of these above-listed questions, you fit the diagnosis of having an AUD. The more that someone answers ‘yes’ to the more severe the diagnosis is. It is diagnosed as follows:

• Mild: Answering yes to two or three questions
• Moderate: Answering yes to four or five
• Severe: Answering yes to six or more

Often, AUD will begin with the person exhibiting maybe just one or two of the issues listed. The initial symptoms can be excused away or overlooked. For example, the first listed criteria are ‘drinking more than planned or longer than planned’. Once in a while, this can happen and often this one is easy to make excuses for too; ‘It was a holiday party so I stayed longer’ or ‘I was with old friends I never see so we hung out longer’. 

However, as mentioned, these symptoms will continue to progress as the drinking continues. As the symptoms accumulate, it can be harder to deny there is an issue, but many people still do so. It is said that AUD is a disease of denial. That’s one reason why it’s important to not only understand the symptoms but also understand the ‘stages’ of alcoholism or more about how it progresses. 

The Jellinek Curve to Help Understand the Stages of Alcoholism 

There is much more known about alcohol use disorder and addiction than ever before. At one time, alcoholism was considered to be a moral failing. There weren’t effective treatment programs and many alcoholics ended up dying in asylums and sanitariums. Today, this has changed a lot. One of the pioneers who helped orchestrate this much-needed and life-saving change was E. M. Jellinek or Elvin Morton Jellinek. Jellinek was a biostatistician, physiologist, and alcoholism researcher. 

Jellinek’s work was instrumental in changing the school of thought about alcoholism now referred to as alcohol use disorder. He coined the term ‘the disease concept of alcoholism. In addition, in his 1960 book he talked about five types of alcoholism. From these classifications, the Jellinek Curve emerged. The Jellinek Curve is often used to help healthcare professionals diagnose and understand alcoholism. 

The Jellinek Curve is a U-shaped curve in which the journey or stages of alcoholism are outlined. During each of these ‘phases’ of alcoholism, the individual is behaving in certain ways and undergoing certain emotions.  The first part of the curve is the ‘Crucial Phase’. 

During this initial phase, the individual is transitioning from alcohol being used normally to one in which they use it to help them cope with life. The person begins to drink in greater quantities and more frequently. They may also begin to experience increased tolerance, increased loss of willpower, drinking earlier in the day, blackouts, and more. 

The next phase in the Jellinek Curve is the “Chronic Phase’. During this stage of alcoholism, the drinker is getting closer to hitting rock bottom. They most likely are drinking and thinking about drinking all the time, they probably spend time with others who drink as they do, and they may even begin to see there is an issue that they may need help for soon. It’s not uncommon for the drinker in this stage to try to go ‘on the wagon’ but be unable to sustain it for very long. 

The third and final phase on the Jellinek Curve is the ‘Rehabilitation Phase’. This phase begins with the drinker having an honest and sincere desire to get help and stop drinking. This is the beginning of recovery. As the curve continues, there is hope and in general, getting one’s life back on track and eventually thriving. 

As illustrated, these phases or stages of alcoholism very much follow the DSM-V and most all of the various schools of thought or theories of the stages of alcoholism. Whether you believe in three stages of alcoholism, four stages, six stages or seven stages of alcoholism, most of the symptoms and exhibited behaviors are the same. It’s important when you look at whether you or a loved one have any form of AUD or alcoholism to keep in mind the various symptoms and how they generally progress. 

Additionally, it’s vital to remember that people progress through the various stages of alcoholism at different rates. And, above all, everyone’s journey is unique to them, no matter what stage of alcoholism or addiction they are in at the time. And, no matter how far down a person has gone, recovery is possible. It all begins with asking for help and finding the treatment program that’s right for you or your loved one. The NIAAA reports that in 2019 only 7% of those who had an AUD got treatment for it. But treatment does work and has helped many begin their recovery journey. 

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, we believe everyone deserves a chance to recover. We have three different programs to treat alcohol use disorder and substance use disorders. Core, Orenda, and Rise. If you or someone you love needs help take a moment to explore our programs and see if we may be a good fit. Or just call us to learn more at 866-804-2098.

Understanding Different Types of Addiction Treatment

Addiction treatment is one of the most common ways someone with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD) gets help to begin their recovery process from alcohol or drugs. Drug treatment or addiction treatment is the process by which an individual works with professionals to stop compulsively seeking and using drugs, including alcohol. 

Treatment programs can include a variety of different settings, approaches, and last for different amounts of time. The treatment program that is best for one person may not be the best for another. Deciding upon what type of addiction treatment is best for you or a loved one should not only include a look at your own or your loved one’s specific needs and circumstances but also involve the advice of a professional with experience in this area.

Within each type of addiction treatment program, there are some common approaches used. These include the use of evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, dialectical-behavior therapy, group therapy, 12-Step approaches, family therapy, medication-assisted treatment, detox, and more. The first step to finding the most effective treatment plan is to understand the options.

RESIDENTIAL OR INPATIENT ADDICTION TREATMENT

Residential or inpatient treatment, whether long or short-term, provides 24-hour, round-the-clock care in a non-medical setting. In this type of treatment modality, patients generally stay anywhere from 30 days to up to 12 months. In some cases, there are longer stays recommended. How long each person stays in residential or inpatient treatment is specific to their unique situation and needs. When it comes to addiction treatment, it is not a one size fits all approach.

Generally, the first step in residential treatment is the detox phase. During this part of addiction treatment, the individual is safely detoxed from alcohol or drugs or both. Detoxing means ridding the body of the toxins, which, in this case, is drugs or alcohol and many times both. When a person has been using alcohol or drugs regularly for extended periods of time it can be dangerous—even fatal—to suddenly stop using them. For this reason, it is highly recommended to detox in a medically-supervised setting with treatment providers who can help navigate this challenging time and work towards your recovery journey.

Many times individuals who try to go it alone when it comes to detoxing from alcohol or drugs will relapse. This is because the withdrawal symptoms can be so uncomfortable they are driven to use the drug to find relief. Today, there are certain medication-assisted treatments that can help to ease these hard to manage acute withdrawal symptoms and make it easier for the individual to get through this first, essential stage of their recovery process.

Many of the residential treatment programs also offer detox and stabilization programs. When looking for an addiction treatment facility, it’s a good idea to be sure they also have a detox program. Being able to undergo detox and smoothly transition in the same addiction treatment facility to the next step makes it easier and less stressful for all involved but most especially the person who needs help.

Residential or inpatient treatment for alcohol or drugs usually follows the Therapeutic Community (TC) model. In this model for addiction treatment, the focus is on healing the individual and resocialization. This involves numerous parts of the community including other residents, staff, and social contexts. This model works on the premise that the person with the alcohol or drug problem has social and psychological deficits that lead them to compulsively use drugs or alcohol. The TC model used frequently in residential treatment programs focuses on the individual learning personal accountability and responsibility.

These inpatient programs are highly structured and guide the individual to examine their own hurtful beliefs, damaging self-concepts, and self-destructive behaviors. Once these are uncovered, the individual is taught new, healthier ways to cope and interact with others. For most, this takes some time and some work. Longer stays in residential programs allow more time for the individual to work through all of these before going back out into the ‘real world’ with its triggers and temptations.

No matter how long the individual stays in an inpatient treatment program, it’s imperative to have support established outside of treatment. Sobriety and living in recovery from alcohol and drugs is a lifelong commitment and process. Hence, support outside of treatment is essential for long-term recovery. This can include supportive family and friends as well as active and regular involvement in support groups such as 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).

OUTPATIENT ADDICTION TREATMENT

Outpatient addiction treatment is treatment for addiction that doesn’t involve the individual staying at the treatment facility 24 hours a day. There are different types and levels of outpatient treatment. Outpatient treatment programs are best suited for someone who has extensive family or friend support or is unable to attend inpatient treatment due to family or job responsibilities they can’t leave.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A partial hospitalization program or PHP is a step down from an inpatient treatment program and a level higher than intensive outpatient programs. During a PHP, also referred to as day treatment programs, an individual is at the treatment facility for about four to six hours a day but they go home at the end of the day. Usually, these programs allow for both individual and group counseling as well as medical services. A PHP is often recommended when an individual is leaving inpatient treatment or for an individual who continually relapses and needs a more intensive type of care and support for a successful recovery. 

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Intensive outpatient programs or IOPs require the individual to come to the treatment center several days a week for a few hours at a time. This varies by treatment center and each individual’s needs. Most IOPs provide group counseling while some offer individual counseling as well. In many of these programs, participants are drug tested regularly. These IOPs usually last for about 90 days.

Individual Addiction Counseling

In this type of outpatient addiction treatment, individuals meet one on one with a trained addiction counselor. During these sessions the individual works on identifying problematic thought patterns, beliefs, and behaviors. Working together with the therapist, they identify new ways to address all of these. In many cases, when an individual is in individual addiction counseling, they will also be asked to be involved in support groups like AA or NA as well. As mentioned, staying sober takes work and is an ongoing process. It’s vital to have support outside of treatment.

While this may seem appealing and less intense for someone considering treatment for addiction, it’s important to honestly assess each person’s situation and unique needs. For many, this type of outpatient treatment simply isn’t enough to help them get on the road to recovery.

Group Counseling

Group counseling is commonly used in both PHP and IOP programs as well as in residential addiction treatment programs. However, group counseling can be used as the sole source of treatment, depending on the level and severity of a person’s addiction. In group counseling, participants are led by a qualified therapist to explore much about addiction. Many share their current challenges as well as learn about triggers and how to handle them. Many times outpatient programs aim to educate the individual about addiction.

HOW TO KNOW WHAT TYPE OF ADDICTION TREATMENT IS BEST FOR YOU

When it comes to addiction treatment many people want to take the easiest and less invasive approach possible. And while this is understandable, in the long run, this isn’t always what’s best. It takes work to get sober and more work to stay sober. Anyone who wants to get help for an addiction issue needs to understand this. It’s vital to take an honest look with a trained professional as well as trusted family members or friends to evaluate each individual’s situation and needs when it comes to addiction treatment options.

Any one of the above-listed treatments can work—and does work—when the individual in treatment is committed to getting and staying sober. While it may seem more appealing to attend a one-hour counseling session once a week, it may not be what you need. In these cases, taking the easier way only prolongs the suffering and the healing.

Futures Recovery Healthcare offers three different residential treatment programs; Core, Orenda, and Rise, as well as outpatient options. Additionally, Futures has a strong and vibrant alumni group offering support well after individuals leave treatment. This aftercare support is crucial for long-lasting recovery.

If you or a loved one are ready to learn more about the treatment for substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders, contact us online or call us at 866-804-2098.

How to Have an Intervention? (And Do They Work?)

If you have a family member or loved one who is addicted to alcohol or drugs, you may want to know how to have an intervention to help them. And it’s no wonder, anyone who watches someone suffer in the throes of addiction naturally wants to help, this is even more so when you are close to that person. Addiction to alcohol or other substances such as legal and illicit drugs not only hurts the person with the issue but also family and loved ones. Relationships are broken, careers put on hold indefinitely, and finances can hit ruin. However, each year thousands of others with alcohol and substance use disorders get help and get sober. Your loved one can too. 

When you care about someone with an addiction, no matter what specific substance it is to, your mind may race with how to help them, what to do, what you shouldn’t do, if you’re doing the right thing, and so on. While it can be definitely hard to know what to do at times, finding support for yourself at a 12-Step group like Ala-non is important. Groups like Ala-non, provide a great amount of support to others who also have a loved one who is addicted. This will help you know better what to do and what not to do when it comes to helping the person with the AUD or SUD in your life. 

One of the things you can do to help your loved one is to hold an intervention. You may or may not have heard of this term as it relates to helping someone with an addiction. Understanding what an intervention is and what it isn’t is an important first step when considering holding an intervention. 

What is an Intervention? 

An intervention is when the family and loved ones of a person with an addiction to alcohol or drugs try to get that person to go to treatment for their AUD or SUD. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines intervention as follows; the act of interfering with the outcome or course especially of a condition or process (as to prevent harm or improve functioning). Interventions can work and in most cases are a good idea. 

When someone has an addiction issue, they are often in denial. No matter how obvious their destructive behavior is to you, they may refuse to see it or acknowledge it. Interventions can help in these situations. If multiple family members and friends are expressing their love and concern, it may help them to recognize the serenity of their situation and agree to get help. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) reports that interventions have a high success rate. In fact, when a trained professional is involved, the NCADD reports about a 90% success rate in getting the person into treatment. 

If you are unsure or concerned about staging an intervention on your own, there are interventionists who can help to facilitate an intervention for alcoholics or those with a drug addiction. 

Who Can An Intervention Help? 

Generally speaking, an intervention can be helpful for anyone with an addiction issue. However, there are certain situations where an intervention is more appropriate than others. For example, an intervention may not be the best first step if you haven’t talked one on one to your loved one about your concerns. 

Many times, an intervention is considered a last-ditch effort to get someone help. Interventions are often held for those individuals who are deeply entrenched in their addictions or who continually refuse treatment. It’s important to note that while interventions can help lead to a loved one getting into treatment, there is no data showing that it impacts the outcome of treatment. 

An intervention, properly executed, can help an individual with an addiction issue to begin to see how their behaviors and choices are hurting themselves and others. They can also become motivated by their family and friends coming together to show their love and concern for them. 

It’s important, however, to plan ahead for the intervention. This way everyone is on the same page and plans are in place for a number of various outcomes–including your loved one accepting help. 

How To Stage an Intervention 

When family and friends gather to hold an intervention for a loved one, they are basically telling the person how their addiction-related behaviors and choices have impacted them and what the consequences will be if they don’t get help. 

The first step is to make a plan. Someone proposes an intervention be held to a group of family members and friends and those individuals decide on a few people to create the formal plan. 

Interventions are emotionally-charged, often dramatic situations where anger and upset can abound. It’s highly advised to consult a professional interventionist, social worker, psychologist, or qualified counselor to assist you in holding the intervention if possible. They can help to guide you and also keep things under control if needed. Additionally, if your loved one decides to accept help, they can facilitate getting them into a treatment center. 

Next, it’s important to do some research about the extent of your loved one’s addiction, what type of treatment programs are best, and what addiction treatment centers would be a good fit for your loved one. You may be able to start arrangements to get your loved one admitted to specific treatment centers. Should your loved one decide to accept help, this will make the process smoother. 

Following this step, the planners should decide who should be a part of the intervention then contact them to see if they are willing to participate. Once this is agreed upon, a set date and time should be agreed upon. It’s important that those participating know how vital it is to hold to this commitment. 

Next, each person who will be at the intervention should write down some notes about what they are going to say. They should start by letting the person know how much they care about them and value them. Next, they should tell the person about specific times and ways they have harmed them because of their addiction. Once a few of these are reviewed, the team member should tell them what will happen if they don’t accept help at that time. Whether it means they won’t be invited to family events or if a wife will move out of the family home or whatever each individual decides. It’s important to be specific about the consequences of not getting help and stick to them.

Then hold the intervention.

Don’t let your loved one know about it ahead of time and let it remain a surprise. Once they arrive, whoever is in charge of the intervention can let them know. Everyone takes turns talking about their loved one’s addiction, how it has impacted them, and what the consequences will be for refusing help. Once everyone has spoken, the leader of the intervention should ask the person if they will agree to get help. 

If they agree, follow your pre-planned process for getting them into treatment as quickly as possible. If they refuse, then it’s time to follow through on consequences. Even if the intervention doesn’t work, it may have planted the seed and down the road, they may get help. 

Interventions can be a very challenging and difficult event to navigate and execute correctly. If it’s possible to hire a professional interventionist, then try to do so. Some treatment centers have interventionists on staff to help families attempting to get their loved one help. 

If you’re unable to enlist the help of a specialist, then be sure to do your due diligence and get as much information and advice as you’re able about how to hold an intervention. When you’re ready to learn more about specific addiction treatment centers and their specific programs begin to reach out. Futures Recovery Healthcare offers three types of addiction treatment programs each of which meets the specific needs of different groups. Learn more about Futures’ programs today. Visit us online or call us at 866-804-2098

Does Addiction Change the Brain?

The human brain is a three-pound mass of grey and white matter that controls all of our activity. From riding a bike and cooking a meal to drawing and solving complex mathematical equations, the brain is the center of it all. Your brain is everything you think, feel, and do. Your brain essentially is you!

When everything is functioning properly, the brain is able to process stimuli, respond, and it’s smooth sailing. However, when there are interferences in normal brain functioning, things can begin to get a bit messy. From brain injuries to mental health disorders like substance use disorders and depression, changes in the brain’s chemistry and wiring can impact how we feel, how we respond, and how we process stimuli.

HOW DOES THE BRAIN WORK?

The brain is the most complex organ in the human body. With complex and intricate functioning, it is sometimes compared to a very complex computer. The brain is made up of billions of neurons that are linked together in circuits and networks. These circuits and networks act as a team together. Different circuits and networks are responsible for different functions in the body. These networks send signals back and forth to each other as well as to the spinal cord, peripheral nervous system, and other parts of the brain.

These important and complex messages are sent by way of neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the body. Their job is to carry, boost, and balance messages between neurons and target cells (these can be another nerve cell, muscle cell, or a gland). These neurotransmitters include epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin.

The brain sends messages when a neuron releases neurotransmitters into the synapse (or gap) between it and the next cell. These chemicals cross the gap and attach to the next neuron. Once this ‘message’ is communicated, the receiving cell changes based on the message sent. Additionally, there are transporters in the brain that recycle these neurotransmitters. Recycling neurotransmitters means bringing that chemical back to the cell that released it.

When it comes to alcohol and drug use, the neurons and how they send, receive, and process signals are interfered with to one degree or another. This affects the brain in different ways.

How Alcohol and Drugs Affect the Brain’s Functions

Drugs interfere with how the brain functions. Some drugs, like marijuana and heroin, mimic the chemical structure of neurotransmitters and activate neurons. Stimulant drugs, such as methamphetamine and cocaine, prompt neurons to release abnormally large amounts of the neurotransmitter dopamine, as well as norepinephrine, and serotonin. These addictive substances can also impede the recycling of neurotransmitters in the brain. Both types of drugs can alter vital functions in the brain.

In the case of drugs such as heroin and marijuana, although this addictive substance mimics a neurotransmitter in the brain the neurons aren’t activated in the same way as with naturally occurring neurotransmitters. This leads to abnormal messages being sent through brain circuits and networks. When it comes to stimulant drugs, the large release of neurotransmitters and their subsequent lack of recycling leads to amplified or interrupted communication between neurons.

When brain functions are altered by addictive drugs, life-sustaining functions can be compromised. Additionally, these changes drive compulsive drug use and drug-seeking behaviors that are a big part of substance use disorder.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), there are certain areas of the brain most impacted by drug use. These are:

• Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex is the part of the brain that controls impulses, solves problems, helps with decision making, and allows you to think and plan. When addictive substances are used, the individual’s impulse control is severely compromised. This loss of control makes it harder for them to resist the urge to use drugs and prompts part of the compulsive drug-seeking and addictive behaviors. Many who don’t understand how the brain works and how drugs affect it think that these drug-seeking behaviors are the person being weak or not caring enough to stop. When in reality, it is often real chemical disruptions in the brain propelling these behaviors.

In addition, the prefrontal cortex is one of the last parts of the brain to reach full maturity. This usually occurs around the age of 24. This makes adolescents, teens, and even young adults more susceptible to the adverse effects of drugs.

• Extended Amygdala

This part of the brain plays a vital role in feelings such as irritability, anxiety, and contentment. When drugs are used repeatedly, this circuit system becomes very sensitive. This manifests in the person having to use the addictive substances just to ease the discontentment and discomfort—not to get high. Many of these feelings controlled by the extended amygdala are also common feelings associated with drug withdrawal. When this area of the brain is hyper-sensitive from repeated drug use, it can amplify these uncomfortable feelings, which often lead to the risk of relapse.

• Basal Ganglia

This important area of the brain is responsible for forming habits and routines as well as playing a role in positive motivation from enjoyable activities such as socializing, sex, and eating. In tandem, these areas form the ‘reward circuit’ of the brain. Drugs overstimulate and over-activate the reward circuit, resulting in the sought-after ‘high’. But, as time goes on and drug use continues, the brain adapts to these drugs, and getting that same ‘high’ can become elusive. In fact, with repeated drug use, feelings of pleasure and happiness change this part of the brain cells so much that only using the drug can create these pleasurable feelings.

• Brain Stem

The brain stem controls critical life functions like breathing, sleeping, and heart rate. Some addictive substances, such as opioids interfere with this vital functioning. This is how overdoses occur. Often in overdoses, the breathing and heart rate are very slowed and lead to death.

Recent research has suggested that it may not be the surges of dopamine that cause the user’s high, but dopamine release has more to do with the impulse to repeat pleasurable activities to reach that state of euphoria. Normally when the brain is healthy, this helps to reinforce good activities like sleep, sex, and eating. However, when addictive substances are used to feel good, the impulse to repeat this behavior can have damaging effects. When certain places, people, or things remind them of drug use and the associated euphoria, the person may crave the drug—even if they haven’t used them in years. That’s one reason for the advice to change people, places, and things in sobriety.

Often, people wonder why drugs are more sought after than simply allowing the body’s natural reward system to function. Drugs of abuse bring on huge surges of neurotransmitters which result in higher highs than from naturally occurring neurotransmitters like dopamine. When the brain becomes accustomed to the addictive substance being there, it produces less of these chemicals naturally. And, in some cases, it reduces the number of receptors that can receive these signals.

This intricate work is why a person who is addicted to drugs feels lifeless, unmotivated, depressed, and unable to enjoy even the good things in life. This person now needs the drug—just to feel normal. When they seek the feelings of euphoria and a high, they need to take even more of the drug. Often when talking about drug addiction you will hear that the person is ‘chasing the high’. This is because when all these changes occur, getting that initial high can be ongoing and never reached. The individual is forever ‘chasing’ it.

It’s important to understand that drugs impact the brain much more than natural neurotransmitters. It has been compared in this way;

Naturally occurring neurotransmitters are like whispering in someone’s ear.

Drug-induced neurotransmitters are like yelling in a microphone.

This example clearly shows just how impactful drugs can be on the brain and its circuits.

HOW SOBRIETY AND RECOVERY CAN HEAL THE BRAIN (AND MUCH MORE)

As you can see, drug and alcohol addiction are not a person being weak-willed or acting immorally. There are actual changes in the body and brain that occur from use that make it very difficult to stop.

“A common misperception is that addiction is a choice or moral problem, and all you have to do is stop. But nothing could be further from the truth,” says Dr. George Koob, director of NIH’s National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “The brain actually changes with addiction, and it takes a good deal of work to get it back to its normal state. The more drugs or alcohol you’ve taken, the more disruptive it is to the brain.”

Getting effective treatment for an alcohol or drug addiction is the first step in helping the brain return to normal. When you stop using harmful substances, such as alcohol or drugs after a few weeks, you’ll most likely begin to feel more clear-headed and like a fog has lifted. However, with time, even more progress occurs. It’s important to note that how the brain recovers is impacted by many various factors including those related to drug use and other related to that specific individual.

The amount of damage done directly impacts how much the brain will recover. In addition, certain areas of the brain recover better than others. Here are some of the cognitive functions that commonly return after some period of sobriety:

• Fluency in speech
• Long and short-term memory
• Verbal IQ

Certain studies also show an increase in brain matter in certain key areas of the brain after abstinence from alcohol and drugs. This includes the insula and cingulate cortex, areas which are important in drug craving and decision-making. The longer someone stops using alcohol or drugs, the greater the chance for full brain recovery. However, it’s important to understand that in certain cases the brain will not make a complete recovery. As mentioned, this is dependent upon various factors. There are some in recovery who will never be themselves again, but for most, addiction treatment can help to repair damage to the brain and body.

Not only does getting sober help to heal the brain, the body, also often ravaged by years of abuse, heals as well. When you are sober—both physically and emotionally—good things begin to happen. Your body heals, your mind gets better, and you see there is a lot life has to offer you.

And while it all sounds great, it’s vital to remember that for someone who is addicted to alcohol or drugs, this may seem impossible. But it’s not. Thousands of others have been in the grips of addiction and found their way out. No matter how impossible you may think it is, there are millions of people who are now sober to prove it’s possible and can happen for you too.

If you or a loved one have an alcohol use disorder or a substance use disorder problem reaching out for help is the first step. At Futures Recovery Healthcare, our compassionate, caring, and expert staff are here to help. Whether it’s your first time seeking treatment or you’ve been in rehab before, we offer recovery programs suited for a variety of individuals and situations. Learn more about these programs online or call us at 866-804-2098.

How Addiction Support Groups Have Changed Since the Pandemic

Recovery from addiction to alcohol or drugs can be tough. Not only is taking the first step and getting help sometimes very difficult to do but staying sober over time can also be a task. In 12-Step meetings, you’ll often hear someone say to the newcomer, “It’s easier to get sober than stay sober.” And while this can be a matter of opinion and unique to each situation, one thing is certain, it takes work and commitment to stay sober long-term. 

One of the best ways to stay in recovery from alcohol or drugs is to have strong support for your recovery in the real world, once you leave treatment. Many people find that while in treatment they are more easily able to forget about drugs or alcohol and focus on their recovery. However, once a person leaves clinical treatment, they are back to their old life and that can be very challenging. 

Old haunts, drinking buddies, happy hours at work, holiday parties, and more can really tempt someone—especially someone new to sobriety. When faced with these temptations and old habits people often think, “Just one more time for old times sake will be okay’ or “I’ll just have one drink, what harm will that do?” the list goes on. But for anyone who has traveled this road of temptation and given in, they know all too well this simply isn’t true. 

For alcoholics, one drink really never is what happens. And for those with drug issues, often relapsing once the body has been free of that substance for a period of time can lead to overdose. So, despite romanticizing that ‘one’ drink or that one-time drug use, the reality is that giving in to temptation can result in not only getting back into the addiction but also overdose and death. 

As mentioned, one of the best ways to protect your sobriety is to have a strong support group at home or wherever it is you go after treatment. For some, this comes easily with loving and supportive family and friends. Others aren’t so lucky and need to establish new friends and a new way of life. Whether you have a strong family and friend support group or not getting connected with a support group is crucial to staying sober. 

Support Groups During COVID-19

It’s one thing to stay sober when in treatment, it’s another to stay sober outside of treatment. For this reason, support groups can provide immeasurable help to the newly sober individual as well as the person with 20 or 30 years in recovery. In fact, there are many who have long-term sobriety who don’t ever miss a meeting in their support group. They tout the benefits of these support groups as the way they stay sober for so long. 

12-Step Support Groups 

Today, there are numerous different support groups. Finding one that you connect with is easier today than ever before. For many years, the 12-Step group, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was the only support group for alcoholics. This 12-Step group is not only one of the first alcoholic support groups but also the most relied upon even today. This group began in the 1930s and was started by two alcoholic men in recovery who wanted to help others recover too. An offshoot of AA is Narcotics Anonymous or NA. This group is based on the same 12-Steps of AA but geared towards those with drug issues, not alcohol. 

When it comes to AA and NA meetings they were traditionally held in person in various locations. From ‘clubhouses’ to church basements, AA and NA groups meet in various locations across the globe. In fact, according to AA, there are groups in more than 180 nations, AA membership is more than two million, and the AA Big Book has been translated into more than 70 different languages. 

AA is a very accessible and diverse support group that can help individuals newly sober as well as those who have years of sobriety. When the pandemic began, this resource for so many responded quickly and adapted for the quarantine. AA meetings began to utilize not only outdoor meeting spaces but also Zoom. Zoom began the advent of online AA and NA meetings. Now that the pandemic is subsiding and things are getting back to a more normal existence, many of these meetings have returned to being in person, but have also kept their online venue. Other meetings have opted to stay online only. While being in person definitely has its benefits (fellowship, connecting with others, being able to chat before and after the meetings, etc.) online meetings also offer some benefits. 

Online AA and NA meetings allow anyone with a computer or phone to connect with others in real-time 24 hours a day. There are online meetings now all over the world and all you have to do is click on the link and you’re there. This has added a new dimension to recovery and connection. While it may not be in person, many are finding online meetings as a strong source of support. One of the reasons is that, as mentioned, you can ‘go to’ a meeting any time of day and no matter where you are. You can find real-time AA meetings here. 

SMART Recovery Groups 

SMART Recovery also has made getting support for sobriety online easier too. SMART Recovery, which stands for Self-management and Recovery Training, has an online forum offering meetings, chat rooms, and forums. These are also available 24/7 and easily accessible. In addition, SMART offers various resources and tools online. You can connect with SMART groups and resources here. 

Celebrate Recovery 

Celebrate Recovery (CR) is a Christ-centered 12-Step group. This support group for not only those in recovery but also family and friends of those with addiction are held in churches. With the pandemic and recovery, this group also established some online meetings via Zoom, Facebook Live, and other platforms. Finding an online Celebrate Recovery meeting isn’t quite as easy. For this support group, which has helped to support many in recovery from alcohol or drugs, you’ll need to find your local chapter of CR and contact them for meeting IDs and invites. 

There are other lesser-known support groups for those recovering from alcohol and drugs. Search online for these support groups to learn more about what they do to help you stay sober and if they have online groups. 

While the pandemic has caused much stress, feelings of isolation, and dismay, the advent of online meetings has been a blessing in the midst of it all. Online meetings enable those who don’t have transportation, those with health issues who can’t get around, and even those who work or are unable to find or afford childcare to attend meetings. This is a huge blessing for many. And as in-person meetings slowly come back around, online meetings can provide extra support and enable individuals to get in more meetings than before. 

Additionally, meeting with other individuals who are staying sober or trying to stay sober in various places around the country and world can really show you that you aren’t alone. You can also get insight that may be different from attending only local meetings. It can also add an element of fun to attend a meeting in another country or state. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol or drugs, Futures Recovery Healthcare can help. We offer evidence-based treatment programs for adults in need. In addition, our alumni group is one of the most active and vibrant in the nation. This group provides valuable support for all once they leave clinical treatment. Those who go to Futures for clinical treatment find they aren’t alone even after they leave treatment. 

To learn more about how Futures can help you contact us online or call 866-804-2098.

How to Stay Sober Long-term: From a Woman Who’s Been There

Millions of Americans are living with untreated addiction issues. According to data from the Closing the Addiction Treatment Gap (CTAG), more than 23 million adults in the United States have an alcohol or drug addiction. Dr. Kima Joy Taylor, director of the CATG Initiative, stated the following in regards to the growing problem, 

“Drug use is on the rise in this country and 23.5 million Americans are addicted to alcohol and drugs. That’s approximately one in every 10 Americans over the age of 12 – roughly equal to the entire population of Texas.  But only 11 percent of those with an addiction receive treatment. It is staggering and unacceptable that so many Americans are living with an untreated chronic disease and cannot access treatment.”

And while getting treatment and starting recovery are essential first steps, achieving long-term sobriety takes work and isn’t as easily attainable. However, millions of those who find recovery from alcohol or drug problems go on to live in long-term sobriety free from alcohol and drugs. But how does this happen? What makes one person stay sober long-term and the next one not be able to do so? There’s no cut and dry answer, but research shows some things can prove to be helpful to long-term sobriety and others aren’t. 

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, we believe everyone deserves a chance to get sober, recover from addiction, and recapture the peace of mind and joy of life. We had the honor of sitting down with Jane C., a woman with 21 years of continuous sobriety, to ask her how she does it. In this candid interview, Jane talks about what it was like, what happened, and how she’s managed to stay sober for 21 years despite experiencing troubles and adversity along the way. 

Here’s what she had to say:

Q: Tell me about yourself; where did you grow up? What was your family like? What kind of childhood did you have? 

A: I grew up in New Jersey in Northern Bergen County. My father was an attorney and my mom was an artist and head hunter. My mom was sober and in Alcoholics Anonymous when I was born. My dad was a drinker. I have a brother who is eight years older than me so we were both almost like only children. My parents divorced when I was pretty young and I grew up with mom and just saw my dad on weekends. 

I had a lonely childhood, both of my parents were distracted. No one showed me basic things, like brushing my teeth. There wasn’t much structure but I had other privileges. Like I went to an eight-week camp every year. A lot of kids didn’t get to do those kinds of things. My mom got married a lot after she and my father split. My mom suffered from mental illness and she hadn’t done the AA steps at that time. We moved around a lot as she changed boyfriends and husbands. I lived in the ghetto sometimes then finally we moved to a nicer area of New Jersey where I went to high school. I started rebelling in elementary school. I started smoking and liking boys a lot. 

Q: When did you first start drinking and what was that like? 

A: I was restless, irritable, and discontent from an early age. I couldn’t find anything that filled the hole in my soul and heart. But around seventh grade, I found a friend who was also restless, irritable, and discontent and we found liquor. I would drink every chance I got. I would bring White Russians to school because they looked like chocolate milk and were easy to hide. I’d also drink Vodka at school. When the weekends came it was all about where are we going to get drunk. That’s all I cared about. Getting drunk and finding boys. I was boy crazy and that started at a young age too. I kept looking for ways to fill that hole, get that attention I craved, find that high, engage in that chase. Adrenaline stuff. And it worked. It was easy. Drinking was an easy fix for all those feelings I didn’t know how to deal with at that time. 

Q: When did you first realize you had an issue? 

A: When I was younger I was already having issues different from other kids. I was in therapy for anger issues. I’d freak out about something and destroy my bedroom in a rage. Teachers started making comments like something is wrong with Jane. Ritalin was suggested. These were markers around 14 and 15 years old. I remember telling my mom that I felt like something wasn’t right with me. I’d watch other kids and they’d be doing normal things for fun and I didn’t get how those things were fun. They’d go for yogurt on Fridays and I just thought that was so weird. Saw there was something different but I didn’t know what it was or what to do. I just kept drinking because that made me feel better. 

Q: Looking back at all of this, why do you think you started drinking and relying on alcohol to make you feel better? 

A: I was worried a lot and I didn’t know why. I was always worried about how I looked, what I said, how I said it, if I fit in, etc. My mind was always worried. Alcohol shut that off for me. When I drank I stopped worrying, in fact, I didn’t care at all. I cared so much about fitting in, but alcohol gave me the confidence to be a part of things and not worry so much. It was like a seamless transition. 

Q: So you started drinking to help ease your racing mind and discontent. Then how did things progress? 

A: I think around 16 years old my dependency really started. I was going into my junior year. I used alcohol, pot, and boys to make myself feel better. I  joked about it. I was okay with it. This is who I am and I am okay with it. 

After a little bit, my life started to suffer. I quit activities that I loved once. I quit dance and volleyball. I started getting in trouble. By the time I was a senior in high school I was kicked out of the house. I didn’t listen to anyone. No one could tell me what to do and I was gonna keep drinking. My life was unmanageable. I couldn’t get into college. My mom tried to send me to rehab but I left. I told myself I was just having fun and my mom was nuts. My dad was a very successful lawyer, pulled some strings, and got me into college. Once I went to college I started doing coke and didn’t last long at college. 

Q: What happened after you left college? Did things get worse? 

A: Yes, they got worse. After I flunked out of college I started smoking crack a few times. Then I started on the harder stuff. I was working at a bar. I was always a hard worker, always had a job. At first, I was getting messed up at work or before work but then learned not to get messed up until after work. I started working at a biker bar at 17. I was around the party lifestyle and a lot of drinking and drugs. I kept partying and I didn’t care. Then I met this guy. I really liked him and he didn’t party. I wanted him to like me so I started to try to control my drinking and stopped using drugs. Once I did this my thinking and my mind got nutty. I was obsessed with him. I called him as soon as he left for work, during the day repeatedly. I asked him if he loved me, how much he loved me and this went on and on. He couldn’t take it and broke up with me. I was devastated. I didn’t get it. I couldn’t see myself clearly. I thought I was doing all the right things because I wasn’t using drugs and drinking as heavily as before but I didn’t see myself clearly. 

After that, I decided to take off to California. That’s when my alcoholism really progressed. I was 19 and started dating a guy who was a musician and crack dealer. So I started smoking it with him. He was also very abusive. Drinking and drugs escalated during this time. My life was full of violence for a few years. Then he cheated on me and left me for someone else. It was then that I was introduced to crystal meth. I liked it because I could drink more and drink for days. I was broke so I started dealing to make money and get drugs. It got really bad. I was so delusional and so far gone. I didn’t even see it. 

This was really the scariest time of my life. I was so mentally out of control. I was paranoid, delusional, and I didn’t trust anyone. I began hearing and seeing people and things and I didn’t know what was real. It was so bad I gave my dog drugs because I thought he wanted them. I was hallucinating, very thin, underweight, and unhealthy. I was a mess. I ended up running away in the middle of the night.  I headed to my brothers in Lake Tahoe to try to get it together. I still didn’t realize drugs were an issue. That’s how insidious and insane this disease is. 

Q: Wow, that’s a lot and that happened really fast. What happened next? 

A: Yes, it progressed really fast and I went downhill really quickly too. My brother told me to go home to New Jersey and get myself together so I did. I drove across the country on drugs, doing drugs the whole way. As soon as I pulled into my driveway I dumped out all of the drugs. I stopped doing drugs and was just drinking. I thought that was fine and I could handle it. I couldn’t. I started drinking alcoholically again. I was out of control. I was living with my mom and she told me that if I wanted to live with her I had to get sober. Drinking wasn’t working well at this point anymore. I wanted to stop using drugs but learn how to control my drinking. But I started using drugs again. I couldn’t stop for good. 

Q: Okay, so by now you know you have a problem, alcohol and drugs aren’t working to make you feel better, you’ve tried to get sober but can’t, what do you do? 

A: Yea, so I was desperate for something to change. Desperate to feel different., be different, to stop. I had moments of clarity and I’d see how bad I was but they’d leave and I just kept drinking. I’d quickly convinced myself that I was okay, I got it. That’s the insanity of the disease. You can be looking at total ruin and destruction and still be in total denial. I had moments of fear that made me want to stop but by that point, I needed the alcohol and drugs to live. I had to have it. I couldn’t stop. 

Q: So we know you have 21 years of sobriety, when did you stop? What happened? 

A: I was living with my mom, hiding my drinking. And then my dad died. 

My father died on February 6 of 2000. His death devastated me inside but I didn’t have the emotional capacity to handle it in a healthy way. My dad was always helping me out, bailing me out of jams, cleaning up the messes I made. I didn’t know what to do. His death set me on a course of an eight-month bender. I started to drink and use coke on a daily basis. Then I was always angry. I’d get drunk and be pissed. I couldn’t control my emotions. At this point, I couldn’t even cry for my dad. I was just angry and angry all the time. I was angry because I had no one to clean up my mess. My dad cleaned up my mess. I wanted to know now that he was gone, “who will make it okay?” I just kept doing drugs and drinking. 

Then one night I had done a bunch of coke with my boyfriend, he went to bed, and of course, I stayed up to keep going. I was using all night, then my heart started racing so hard, more than ever before. I really believed I was going to die. I definitely thought I was going to die. So I got on my knees, I really thought I was gonna die. I asked, “what is wrong with me, God?” And then sort of like Bill’s story in the AA Big Book, my Higher Power showed up for me in a really profound way. Right then my eyes were opened and I got to see myself exactly as I was- an alcoholic and addict. And I couldn’t deny it. I had rejected every chance of help and love from my Higher Power for so long and tried to do it all on my own. I was selfish and self-centered and it was going to kill me. That night, right then I took steps one and two as they are in the Big Book. I admitted to myself that my life was unmanageable and that only my Higher Power could restore me to sanity. It was a profound moment and changed my life. 

Q: That’s really intense. So then what happened? It’s one thing to have the realization, it’s another to get sober and stay sober. 

A: I started going to AA meetings in York, Pennsylvania where my mom had moved. I showed up but I kept trying to drink. I couldn’t drink though. I’d have one sip of a beer and be nauseous and want to vomit. I just couldn’t drink anymore. I kept smoking pot for a few weeks because I didn’t really get sobriety and the concept of not being on anything. But then after a bit, I stopped that and my sobriety date is from when I stopped smoking pot too. 

I went to a lot of AA meetings. I wasn’t working so I went to two meetings a day. I did this for at least a year. Then I got a job and started working. I had to take a job for $6 an hour. It was really humbling. I worked and went to meetings and got into service. If they told me to do something I did it. I wanted to do the best I could at every service position they gave me. I became teachable and I learned to follow directions. And it changed my life. 

I met good people who cared, who showed up, who did what they said they’d do. I was immersed in the drug and crime world before, no one was really good in that world so I thought good people didn’t really exist. I found good people in AA and I wanted to be like them so I did what they said. And it worked. 

Q: And you’ve done that for 21 years now? Have you had any challenges in sobriety? 

A: Yes, AA is essential to me staying sober. I am in service and work with others a lot. I keep AA and my sobriety as a priority. My kids have grown up in AA. I”m not the mom who did things like other moms. They sat on Santa’s lap once, maybe went to the park twice but I kept them close to me and in AA. And I stayed sober for 21 years now. They’ve never seen me drink or use drugs. I may not be perfect but I do my best and AA helps keep it real for me. 

I got married to a guy in AA and we had two boys. Things were good for a while. I was happy, we were this power AA couple. Then he started smoking crack again and he still is. We lost everything. I had to declare bankruptcy, and we got divorced. It was really hard. But the people in AA showed up for me. They carried me when I was broken and couldn’t carry myself. And you know what, I stayed sober, I got through, I learned lessons, and I’m okay. One of the biggest things I learned is that I wasn’t relying on my Higher Power enough. I was self-willing a lot of things in my life and not just trusting, surrendering, and letting my Higher Power guide me. I needed those lessons to grow, stay sober, and ultimately be able to help others in AA who go through the same thing. 

Q: Do you ever miss drinking or doing drugs? 

A: The only time I miss drinking is sometimes when I’m with my boyfriend and he has a drink by the fire. Sometimes it’s hard watching other moms get together and socialize. Alcohol is a social lubricant so I miss that part of it but only sometimes. That’s the lure of ease and comfort from alcohol. When I see this I still want to be a part of and fit I with them. But,  I lost that privilege. And I get to feel that good stuff in AA. I have girls I’ve sponsored for 15 and more years, they’re like family now. It’s really incredible. But, sometimes, outside of AA it’s uncomfortable and I have to live with it. I just show up and keep trying and I pray through it all. 

Q: That’s awesome. So, what do you do on a daily basis to stay sober? 

A: I pray, meditate, connect with at least one person from AA every day. I go to meetings. I do the step work. I try to follow the principles of being honest, open-minded, and willing. I find that when I’m willing, things work out best. Even if I don’t want to go to a meeting or sponsor someone or speak at a meeting, I still do it. I remain willing. That has helped me tremendously along the way. 

Q: What advice would you give to someone who is just getting sober? 

A: You really have to want it. You have to want things to change AA, NA, or any recovery program is for people who WANT it. Lots of people need it but you have to want it. You have to want a different way of life. It’s not always possible until you get so sick and tired of living how you are. You have to be sick and tired of what alcohol and drugs are doing to your life.  

I also suggest to everyone new to read the Big Book and literature of AA. Look for people who are talking about what’s in the literature. Not opinions. A lot of people have a lot of different opinions about alcoholism, addiction, and how to get and stay sober. I stick to what the Big Book says.  The AA program, as it’s outlined in the book, won’t lie to you. Get the book and read it. Start going to meetings. Find someone who is talking about the book and knows the book. 

There’s a lot of other advice and opinions out there. That isn’t helpful especially if you’re new. Find someone with a light in their eyes and talk to them. That’s what I did and also what thousands of others have done and do to get and stay sober. Getting sober is hard, staying sober can be harder but the AA program is what works for me. I take it and my sobriety seriously. They are my number one priority. 

Q: Great advice, thank you. How is your life today? 

A: My life today is good. I have two teenage sons. They are both doing well. I have a boyfriend who cares about me and we have a good life. I got into a business that I’ve excelled in and am able to make a good living doing. 

I have matured. My maturing process stopped when on drugs and booze, I respond more sanely to things, not always but I’m progressing forward and that’s what matters the most. 

Today I’m more loving and kind. I’ve learned to realize that other people have feelings. I also am more aware and know where my defects lie so I can be aware and work on them. I can see when they pop up and AA gives me the tools to deal with them in a healthy way. 

I am able to present for my kids in a way my parents weren’t. I make mistakes but I recognize them and I have been able to be more aware of making them. That makes me very grateful. Breaking another part of the chain, slowly.

Jane, thank you so much for sharing your insight and wisdom from 21 years of sobriety with us today. This has been so helpful for me, I know it will help many who read this and hear your message of strength and hope. It’s a miracle, really, for anyone who gets sober. It’s amazing to think of what your life was like on meth and coke and a real mess to today, having a good job, a great family, and most of all still being sober. 

If you or a loved one are living in painful addiction or alcoholism, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. With three different treatment programs, our compassionate team helps adults from all walks of life, at different stages of addiction, get started on the road of recovery. At Futures, we also treat individuals with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health issues. Treating both conditions at the same time is essential in helping to build a solid foundation for long-lasting recovery. 

Contact us online to learn more or call 866-804-2098.

7 Ways to Cope with Being Alone at the Holidays

The holidays are fast approaching and for some that means joy and for others sadness. Expectations surrounding what the holidays are supposed to look like can lead many to feel sad, anxious, and even fall into depression during the holiday season. The holidays are traditionally associated with being with family and loved ones. They are supposed to be a magical time when we are with our significant other and sharing laughter and happy moments with them and family. However, this isn’t always the case. In fact, this isn’t the case more often than not.

If you are single and alone during the holidays this year, you may feel lonely, sad, and fearful. It seems when a person is single during the holidays, all they see are the happy couples and families celebrating. This can further increase feelings of despair during this memorable time of year. But, it’s important to look at the facts, not just how you may feel. According to the United States Census Bureau, there are about 124.6 million single adults in the United States. That’s just over 50% of the U.S. population that is single. 

That means that not just you, but many others are single and alone for the holidays. While some may have more friends and others more family to spend time with, traditionally many people who are single feel sad and lonely during the holidays. This, in part, can be from antiquated expectations. For example, in the 1950s only 20% of the U.S. population was single. During these years, being alone during the holidays definitely stood out making the individual feel even more alone. 

Today, however, it’s quite different. Not only are millions of Americans single, but millions are also celebrating the holidays in new and different ways. If you feel lonely this holiday season—or any other time of year—it may be time to readjust your expectations and start some of your own traditions. 

Here are seven tips on how to cope with being single during the holidays and even enjoy them. 

1. Ditch perfection

As mentioned in the 1950s only 20% of the U.S. adult population was single. This led to many forming ideas of the perfect couple, the perfect family, the perfect relationship, and the perfect holiday celebrations. While this may be realistic in the movies, today, this often isn’t the case. From blended families to same-sex marriages, a lot has changed. Clinging to the ideas of the past and how your situation should look at the holidays is dangerous. Many times we get unknowingly caught up in this idea of perfection and hold ourselves to it. This is particularly true during the holidays. This year, don’t do it. Embrace whatever your situation is and be grateful for the many things you do have. That can begin with being able to read and having somewhere to lay your head (if you’re so fortunate.) Break free from old ideals and expectations of what the holidays should look and feel like for you. 

2. Reach out

You may or may not have a group of friends and family you can reach out to during the holiday season and year-round. If you do, reconnect with them. You can plan something to do or try to get together. However, just reaching out and connecting can help you alleviate feelings of loneliness during the holidays. If you don’t, then nows the time to try to forge new bonds and friendships. This is easier said than done for many, especially in the age of COVID. However, there are some groups that connect people for social interactions, not just romantic ones. Check out some of these friendship apps that are helping like-minded people connect and form friendships: 

• Meetup

This app joins like-minded individuals based on their likes and dislikes. You can find individuals who want to meet up for a happy hour or those who are interested in taking nature hikes. 

• Yubo

This free app allows users to meet online, get to know each other in that venue, and also has specific interest groups and allows you to live stream with new friends. 

• Bumble BFF

This female-centered dating app, Bumble, has now expanded to connecting females with other females for friendship. 

• Friender

With this friendship app, individuals take an introductory survey assessing their interests. After that, you are matched with males and females who have at least one similar interest. 

• Hey! Vina

This free app was created to empower women through female friendships. Similar to Tinder, you can swipe left or right based on possible friends’ locations, mutual friends, and shared interests. 

All of these apps have free versions you can check out today. While you may feel reluctant and even silly to join one of these online sites to make friends, just like dating, it is the way the world is going in meeting and making friends. As people move from city to city, state to state, and even country to country, these apps provide enormous support in finding friends and social groups with like interests. 

3. Plan your own way

The holidays are often steeped in tradition. When we are disconnected from these traditions it can lead to more feelings of isolation and loneliness. This year, why not plan those most significant days for yourself. If you aren’t able to connect with family or friends on the holidays (many won’t be again this year due to COVID concerns) why not plan your own day? You can incorporate some of your favorite parts of the holiday traditions with some new themes. For example, if you love turkey but won’t be celebrating anywhere this year how about making your own turkey with all the trimmings you love. Planning, preparing, and executing this will occupy your mind and maybe even make you feel accomplished. You don’t have to wait to be invited somewhere you can make your own holiday traditions this year. 

4. Pamper yourself

Self-care and self-love are vital to ward off feelings of loneliness any time of year. At the holidays, as many more acutely feel these pains of being alone it’s important to treat yourself well. From a bubble bath and favorite meal to a massage or even a trip, taking time to care for yourself will help ease feelings of loneliness. When you like spending time with yourself, it’s much harder to feel lonely. 

5. Count your blessings

It can be easy to fall into self-pity when you’re alone at the holidays but if you take a look there are really a lot of things to be grateful for in your life. No matter how down and out you may be, you can find reasons to be grateful if you look honestly at your life. For example, do you have a roof over your head? Do you have eyes to be able to read and see things? Do you have one person you can call a friend? Are you in recovery from alcohol or drugs? We all have a lot to be grateful for in life. When you take a moment each day to really start appreciating what you have—even if you think it’s not much—you’ll start seeing more that you are grateful for and these things will start to multiply. 

6. Volunteer

It may sound odd but when you’re feeling down reaching out to help someone else is one of the best ways to feel better. Whether you volunteer somewhere or simply help out an elderly neighbor this can help you to get out of your own head. This alone can do wonders for feelings of loneliness and isolation. In addition, volunteering increases one’s self-esteem and self-confidence. When you feel lonely this can help tremendously. 

7. Embrace it all

Your life may not be ideal today but as mentioned there’s always a lot to be grateful for in life. Accepting your circumstances exactly as they are and knowing that you are exactly where you are supposed to be can really help with eliminating feelings of loneliness and sadness. When you embrace your life exactly as it is today, you’ll start to see more good and feel better. 

Being alone at the holidays can be tough, but it can also be an opportunity to find new traditions, new friends, and be happy with what you have and where you are. Remember, life isn’t stagnant and is always changing. If you are alone at the holidays, find ways to nurture yourself and others to ward off these feelings. It’s okay to feel lonely but remember, you may still have a lot to be grateful for and there are ways to find others who may be feeling lonely too. 

If your loneliness and sadness have been going on for a while or you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mood issues, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. We have an inpatient mental health program to help support those with mental illnesses to heal and recover. You don’t have to go it alone. Call us today at 866-804-2098 or visit us online. 

How to Prevent Relapse During the Holidays and New Year

It’s that time of year again! Time for celebrating with family and loved ones, remembering what you’re grateful for, exchanging gifts, overindulging in food, and making resolutions for the year to come. And while all this sounds wonderful, the reality of the holiday season today is that it can be filled with a lot of stress, anxiety, and worry. If you’re in recovery from alcohol or drugs the holidays can be one of the most challenging times of year to navigate—and stay sober! 

According to data, people drink more and use more drugs during the holiday season. When it comes to those in recovery from alcohol or drugs the holidays can mean white-knuckling it and clinging to sobriety. And, sadly, during this time of year, more people relapse than at any other time of the year. Research also reveals that more people die from drug overdoses and alcohol-related deaths in the month of December. In fact, data revealed that since 1999 more than 91,000 Americans died from substance-related issues in the month of December. 

Why Do the Holidays Trigger Relapse? 

So why are the holidays—that are supposed to be a time of joy and celebration—a time when relapse and overdose deaths increase? Stress! From being overscheduled to financial concerns, the holidays can cause a lot of stress on everyone. And, stress is one of the main contributing factors for relapse. When an individual is stressed out and overwhelmed they are more vulnerable to not only seek relief from the anxiety they are often in situations, like holiday parties, that make alcohol and drugs readily available. Learn more about ways to reduce holiday stress here. 

In addition, for some, the holidays bring along with it a lot of triggers. For example, if you have a family that drinks a lot and you are with them during the holidays this can trigger you to want to drink too. What’s more, family relations can often be stressful and strained which can also trigger old feelings and emotions which make a person with an addiction to alcohol or drugs want to seek relief by drinking or using. 

When an individual is stressed out there are some physical changes in the body that contribute to a relapse. Dopamine activity in the brain can be increased during times of elevated stress. This neurochemical in the reward center of the brain may make a person seek out drugs or alcohol even more during these high-stress times. 

It’s also important to note that when the brain is under chronic stress executive functioning can be compromised. Executive functioning includes impulse control, self-monitoring, and learning. This can make it even more likely for someone to relapse. However, relapse during the holidays isn’t inevitable, in fact, many thousands of people in recovery stay sober during times of extreme stress—including the holidays. 

So how do you stay sober during the holidays? There are a few tried and true tips that can help you safely navigate the holiday season and best of all stay sober. 

• Pray or meditate

Taking time each day to pray to your Higher Power or wherever your faith lies is vital to remaining centered and decreasing stress. Starting the day with prayer or meditation can help set the tone for the day and keep you focused on what matters. In addition, saying a prayer during the day and in moments of stress or temptation can make the difference between picking up a drink or drug and staying clean and sober. If you aren’t sure of your faith, you can simply send up short words of prayer and not worry about exactly what or who you believe in right now. In 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous having faith in a power greater than yourself is key to staying sober and enjoying a good life. 

• Protect your sobriety

It’s important to realize each day that staying sober and clean is your priority. Oftentimes when individuals get sober they want to make up for lost time and pain they may have caused others. During the holidays this desire to ‘do better’ can become paramount. However, it’s vital to understand that if you lose your sobriety, you’ll lose everything. One saying in 12-Step rooms is as follows;

“Whatever you put before your sobriety you’ll lose.”

This has been found to be true by many. You must—at all times—make your sobriety and maintaining it your number one goal There are those who won’t get it—that’s okay. Only you have to get it. This is another reason why attending support group meetings is crucial to maintaining sobriety. People in the meetings can relate to what you are going through and many have tips on how they survived the holidays and stayed sober. 

• Make a plan

When going into any potentially triggering situation or undergoing increased amounts of stress it’s important to have a plan in case you are tempted. This plan should include reaching out to a trusted sober friend or a counselor who supports and understands addiction and sobriety. You can plan where you’ll go, who you’ll go with, when you’ll leave, what you’ll drink, how you’ll respond to questions about your sobriety, etc. For many in recovery, the holidays can be very difficult but having a plan and foreseeing triggers and difficult situations can make a big difference. 

• More meetings

Increasing your attendance (in-person or virtually) at support group meetings like AA or NA can be a huge help during the holidays. As mentioned, people there can not only relate but may be going through it themselves. It helps with eliminating the feelings of isolation, gives you extra support specific to your addiction, and also there are many in the rooms of AA with many years of sobriety who have traversed difficult times and can share with you what they did to stay sober through it. Many who attend AA meetings say that it’s one of the only places they are able to feel peace of mind and like they belong. This is important during the stressful and triggering holiday season. What’s more, sharing about what’s going on with you will help enormously too. Not only will you get it off your chest, but you’ll also undoubtedly receive support from other sober people. Find an AA meeting near you here. 

• Addiction treatment alumni groups

Many of the best addiction treatment centers have alumni groups that are very active. Staying connected with these groups can make a big difference. The professionals from the addiction treatment center know how difficult the holidays can be and often have special meetings and outings to support you during this time. If you lost touch with this group after rehab, consider reaching back out and reconnecting. 

The holidays can be a difficult time for many in recovery—particularly early recovery. Taking a few of these steps can make all the difference. The most important thing to remember is that your sobriety comes first. If others in your family or social circle don’t get it that’s okay. You get it. Getting sober isn’t easy and staying sober can be even more challenging especially during the holidays. But, you can do it! Lean on the support that’s out there. If you haven’t connected with support groups now is a great time to start. They are welcoming, supportive, and always happy to see all newcomers. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to alcohol or another substance, Futures Recovery Healthcare can help. If you or someone you love is struggling with staying sober we can help too. Contact us online to learn more or call us at 866-804-2098.

How to Stay Sober During the Holidays

The holidays conjure up different feelings and expectations for everyone. For some, it may bring joy, relaxation, and bliss. For others, the feelings may be more like anxiety, stress, and fear. Then, for anyone who is sober (or trying to stay sober), the holidays can be full of multiple emotions both good and bad. When you’re new to sobriety, the holidays can be a real test of your sobriety. 

Being newly sober—days, weeks, months, etc.—during the holidays can bring on a number of fears and worries. One of the biggest questions someone new to sobriety will ask themselves as the holidays approach is, “how do I stay sober through the holidays?”

And while staying sober through the holiday season may seem daunting and downright impossible—it’s not. Thousands of others just like you have faced the holidays with the same trepidations and not only survived but stayed sober. Often the first holiday and holiday season sober is the most challenging. But, you, like many others, can do it. 

3 Things that Make Staying Sober Through the Holidays Challenging

Everyone in sobriety has different challenges, varied family backgrounds, different family backgrounds, and different holiday expectations. These expectations may be from one’s self but also are many times from other family members and friends. Despite these differences, there are a few challenges that remain the same for most everyone trying to stay sober during the holiday season. Here are a few: 

1. Holiday Celebrations

No matter which holidays you celebrate this time of year, there’s no doubt that most will have some sort of liquor present. If you are in recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD) or alcohol addiction, this can be a very difficult place to be. And, if you are in recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD), being around alcohol and a party-like environment can also be extremely challenging. If you are new to sobriety and this is just your first or second holiday season sober, it can be even harder. Your traditions and habits may be to indulge in alcohol with family and friends this time of year. Imagining yourself without that drink in hand to ease anxiety and have fun can cause fear. You may think, “how can I possibly do this?” but the good news is you can. 

Additionally, there are usually holiday office parties where many celebrate with alcohol and food. You may be used to being the life of the party and always having a drink in hand. Facing this holiday party without that comfort can seem impossible but it’s not. Remember thousands of others have been in your exact place and gotten through sober. 

Tip 1: Be prepared and set a plan for each event or celebration you will attend. It is often suggested to plan to be at an event for a set, short amount of time. For example, if you’re attending an office party, you can get there on time and stay for an hour. It’s okay to make up an excuse ahead of time as to why you have to leave. It’s vital to put your sobriety first, especially in these vulnerable situations. If you are at a family event, plan the same and stick to it. 

Tip 2: Additionally, you should plan what you will be drinking and how you will respond if someone asks why you aren’t drinking and also if someone tries to buy you a drink. A seltzer with lime is a go-to for many in recovery. No matter what you choose, plan a nonalcoholic drink ahead of time. When it comes to being asked why you aren’t drinking it’s also okay to either tell the person the truth or have an excuse. There are multiple reasons why someone chooses not to drink alcohol at a party. They range from having to drive to being on medications that prevent drinking alcohol. 

Tip 3: Another important part of your plan should be to call a sober friend if you are struggling at the event or just need some extra support. Sober friends you’ve met in rehab or 12-Step or other recovery meetings are a great source. They too, are trying to stay sober and can relate to and support you. Having this lined up ahead of time will help to ease anxiety about the event. Tell your friend ahead of time that you may be calling them so they can be available, and have a backup if possible. 

There’s no doubt that getting through the holidays sober can be tough but it can (and does) happen. Just keep remembering you aren’t alone. According to The National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, about 30% of the United States’ population doesn’t consume alcohol. You are in good company when you aren’t drinking or using drugs. 

2. Holiday Stress

Sadly, today we have gotten away from much of the true meaning of the holidays. Instead of taking time out to relax and enjoy our families and friends we often race around (sometimes beginning months ahead) to prepare for company and buy gifts to impress and wow. However, this is really not what the holidays are about. This running around and trying to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list can cause a lot of stress. 

This year it may be even more true. With limited inventory and delays in shipping, it may be even harder to find the perfect gift for everyone this year. And, when it comes to being new to sobriety, you may feel even more pressure to get the perfect gifts. Often, when someone gets sober, they begin to see the harm they may have unintentionally done to family and loved ones. Many times, we then want to try to ‘make up’ for that pain that was caused. In our society, we have often come to expect presents and gifts as ways to repair the damage. However, this isn’t how real healing and repair happen. While buying a nice gift is great, how you treat the people you may have harmed moving forward is what matters. 

Additionally, if you want to try to host one of the holiday celebrations to ‘make up for lost time’, this can add a tremendous amount of stress. Hosting a holiday celebration is a lot of work and when you are new to sobriety this may not be the best choice. Don’t feel obligated to make up for past mistakes by overextending yourself. This kind of stress is what can cause a relapse during the holidays. If you relapse, you won’t be able to make up for any wrongs you’ve done or harms you’ve caused. 

Tip 1: Decide on and stick to a plan for the holidays and preparation. Ditch the running around and trying to get everyone the perfect gift. Consider talking to your family and friends and letting them know that you are trying to stay sober and are taking a minimalist approach to the holidays this year. In society today, we tend to overindulge in everything. Simplifying things will help to relieve some of the pressure around the holidays and gift-giving. 

Tip 2: If you have a big family and many to buy for, consider suggesting doing a pollyanna or white elephant this year. With a pollyanna, you pick names from a hat, and then each person is buying just one gift. Putting a price limit on the gift is a good idea too. For a white elephant gift, each person in attendance brings a wrapped gift with them. Next, the first person randomly picks a gift and so on until all gifts are chosen. The fun part is that some white elephant games have the first person able to trade their selected gift with a better one that comes after them. There are variations to both of these but each helps take the pressure of buying multiple gifts away. 

Tip 3: If you normally host a holiday dinner or event or if you are considering trying to do so this year maybe reconsider. Not only is there a lot of stress normally, when you are trying to stay sober this extra stress can be dangerous. If budget allows, you can order a prepared meal that you have to just heat up. You can also ask for others to pitch in this year and bring a dish. Or, you can kindly let everyone know you need to take this year off from hosting. While it may seem like you are breaking tradition, it’s crucial to keep your sobriety as your top priority. Remember, alcohol and drugs both kill and ruin lives, relapsing won’t help anyone. 

3. Financial Stress

As mentioned, our society has placed great emphasis on gift-giving and acquiring lots of ‘things’. This can weigh heavy on one’s pocketbook. Financial stress can really put people over the edge and cause them to reach for a drink to cope. Also, many who are newly sober have lost jobs, spent savings, and don’t have much money as it is. Being honest and explaining this to loved ones is important. While they may not fully understand, it’s important to let them know that this year, your number one goal is to stay sober through the holidays. Those who are worth having around will get it. 

Tip 1: As mentioned, consider doing an alternative gift-giving approach this year. Pollyanna and white elephant are both great choices that can make for a fun exchange. 

Tip 2: Consider making gifts this year. There’s nothing more memorable than a handmade gift from someone you love. There are a lot of inexpensive and easy holiday gift ideas online as well as on Pinterest. From a memorable picture in a hand-decorated picture frame to a jar of chocolate chip cookies, there are lots of things you can make that others will love. 

Tip 3: Many people who have a drinking or drug problem have mismanaged their finances. This year set a budget for the holidays and stick to it. Yes, this may mean fewer gifts for others but giving gifts isn’t where the real love comes from. Being present and sober are the best gifts you can give loved ones and family. This year, don’t let the guilt or shame of past years make you go beyond your means. Give what you can and stick to a budget. 

In addition to these specific tips, the holidays are a good time to practice your new, healthy coping skills. From going to support group meetings like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous to taking hikes in nature and doing meditation, there are many ways to help reduce that overload of stress that so many feel during the holiday season. 

When you are newly sober, these stresses can seem overwhelming. However, once you successfully navigate the holidays and stay sober, you’ll be so much stronger in your sobriety. Follow these tips and look for other ways to stay sober during the holidays. Remember, you’re worth it and you can do it! 

If you or a loved one are struggling with an alcohol or drug use issue, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. Many of our staff are in recovery themselves and know firsthand how hard it can be—especially to stay sober during the holidays. When you’re ready for help, we are here. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Recovery is possible. Learn more online or call 866-804-2098.

Preventing Opioid Overdose Deaths: Reverse the Silence Campaign

The opioid epidemic continues to wreak havoc across our great nation. Every year, thousands of individuals die from opioid overdose—many times accidentally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), of the close to 71,000 overdose deaths in 2019, 70% involved an opioid. And, what’s more, 91% of these overdose deaths were unintentional. 

If you or someone you love uses opioids—either by prescription or illicit—you need to be aware of the signs of abuse as well as signs of opioid overdose. Additionally, it’s imperative to have a plan in case of an overdose. 

Reverse the Silence Campaign, aims to do just that—help prevent and reverse opioid overdoses. The campaign, composed of Emergent BioSolutions and several national non-profit agencies, has the mission to raise awareness about opioid overdose deaths and also end the stigma associated with opioid overdoses so that voices can be heard and fewer people succumb to opioid overdose.

Their message is as follows; 

“We can no longer allow the stigma of opioid overdose to silence people from talking, and we can help with education, collaboration and ongoing support for those living with Substance Use Disorder and/or Opioid Use Disorder.”

Know the Facts: Opioid-related Statistics

The Reverse the Silence Campaign has a goal of helping those who are using opioids as well as their loved ones and family members to have an opioid preparedness plan in case of accidental or other overdose. This is key to saving lives and in turn, hopefully helping those in need to find recovery. 

According to this campaign, there are some significant concerns for those with opioids in their homes as well as with opioids in general. Here are some of their findings:

• Opioids are the leading cause of accidental death in the United States
• 168 million prescriptions for opioids were written and filled in one year according to 2018 data (equally more than one prescription for every female in the U.S.)
• Children have a 2.5x greater risk of dying from opioid overdose if their mothers are prescribed opioids
• 44% of opioid overdose deaths had a bystander present but they rarely used naloxone to help reverse it. 

As you can see, opioid use and abuse impact more than just the person using them. The loved ones, including innocent children, are more at risk than ever before. It’s imperative that awareness is spread about opioids, overdoses, and how to help when you suspect an overdose. 

Signs and Symptoms of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

While opioids can help with pain, too often dependence develops. When this happens, the individual will show certain signs and symptoms of opioid abuse. Here are some things to look for in a loved one who is using opioids—both illicit and prescription: 

• Taking prescription opioids differently than prescribed (for example taking more than prescribed or taking more frequently than prescribed)
• Exhibiting moodiness or frequent mood swings
• Showing changes in sleep patterns
• Running out of medications early
• Borrowing medications from others
• Having or seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors
• Stockpiling or having a secret supply of opioids ‘just in case’
• Putting themselves or others in danger particularly in pursuit of drugs
• Being irritable angry, or anxious more than before
• Showing extreme relaxation or elation when using the opioid
• Hiding opioids
• Behaving in odd or strange ways 
• Lying about opioid use
• Experiencing financial issues
• Experiencing negative consequences from use but continuing to use

You should also look for some physical signs that can indicate an opioid addiction. These include: 

• Bloodshot eyes and small pupils
• Constipation and trouble urinating
• Decreased respiration rate
• Itching 
• Flushed skin
• Track or injection marks if using drugs intravenously
• Hallucinations, confusion, and delusions
• Paranoia

In addition, there are certain risk factors that make a person more susceptible to developing an OUD. These are: 

• Having a family or personal history of substance or alcohol use disorder
• Having a mental illness such as anxiety or depression
• Engaging in high-risk behaviors
• Spending time with individuals who use drugs
• Having experienced early childhood trauma
• Undergoing stress including homelessness and poverty

There are other risk factors for developing a substance or opioid use disorder but these are some of the main ones to be aware of in someone who is using opioids. If you notice any of these signs and they continue over a period of time you may have a reason to be concerned. However, it’s important to know that recovery from opioid addiction is possible. Treatment at a reputable addiction treatment center is highly recommended for anyone with a substance use disorder including opioid addiction. 

Overdose Prevention Plans

As mentioned, one of the foremost goals of the Reverse the Silence Campaign is to help those who have a loved one using opioids to develop a plan in case of overdose. An at-home safety plan should start by asking yourself the following questions: 

• Are all opioids locked away from access to children? 
• Do you know the signs of an opioid overdose? 
• Do you have naloxone readily available and do all family members know where it is?
• Do you know what increases the risk of an overdose? 

The first step is answering these questions and getting this information if you don’t already have it. The CDC offers an overdose tip card with these questions and resources.  Here are some items that increase the risk of an overdose you should know about:

• Taking illicit or illegal opioids like heroin or fentanyl
• Taking high doses of prescription opioids
• Combining opioids with other drugs like alcohol
• Being over the age of 65 years
• Having other health issues like sleep apnea, or issues with liver or kidney functions
• Taking more opioids than prescribed

Additionally, it’s vital to be aware of signs of opioid overdose. When it comes to opioids and overdose there is the opioid triad which has three vital signs of overdose: 

• Very small or pinpoint-sized pupils
• Very slow breathing 
• Unconsciousness

 The following are also signs of an opioid overdose:

• Being unresponsive
• Being awake but not able to talk or communicate
• Having a limp body
• Having a pale, clammy face
• Having blue lips, fingernails, and skin
• Having slow, shallow, irregular, or ceased breathing
• Having an erratic pulse or no pulse at all
• Vomiting
• Having a gurgle like sound or rattle when breathing

What to Do for an Opioid Overdose

If you suspect someone may have overdosed on opioids (or any other substance) call 911 immediately. After that, the CDC recommends taking the following steps:

1. Call 911
2. Administer naloxone
3. Try to keep the individual awake and breathing
4. Lay the person on their side (to prevent choking)
5. Stay with the person until help arrives

Additionally, the American Psychological Association (APA) recommends taking the following five steps when an opioid overdose is suspected: 

1. Call 911
2. Give a sternal rub (this is rubbing knuckles against the breastbone. This can help to assess if the person is unconscious and may also stimulate breathing.
3. Administer rescue breathing if needed
4. Administer naloxone
5. Continue rescue breathing for 3-5 minutes and if the person remains unresponsive administer a second dose of naloxone

If and when the person is revived it’s vital to stay with them and still have emergency help come. The individual may experience withdrawal symptoms but it’s crucial they don’t take more opioids. The effects of naloxone will wear off and the effects of the opioids can return. 

The Reverse the Silence Campaign aims to educate all about these important life-saving steps that can be taken to help someone who has overdosed on opioids. As mentioned, most of the overdose deaths from opioids are accidental and therefore preventable. If you or a loved one are using opioids, it’s vital to have a plan in place. 

If you think you or a loved one have become addicted to opioids, then seeking professional treatment is essential. Evidence-based treatment programs like those at Futures Recovery Healthcare can help those addicted to opioids to recover. Recovery is possible and everyone deserves a chance to live free from the bonds of addiction. 

Call Futures today and start healing tomorrow. Call 866-804-2098 or visit us online. We are here to help you or your loved one recover. 

COVID-19 and Its Impact on Addiction

COVID-19 has now become a household word. More than a year has gone by since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the pandemic on March 20, 2020. Much has happened during this time; for many things have gotten much worse. This is particularly true for those with substance and alcohol use disorders (SUD and AUD) as well as mental health issues. 

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), both substance abuse and overdose have increased since the COVID pandemic. Additionally, the American Psychological Association (APA) reports an increase in both opioid and stimulant use since the pandemic started. In addition, the amounts used and frequency of use have both increased during the COVID pandemic. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 13% of Americans started using alcohol or drugs during the pandemic as a way to cope with their uncomfortable and unsettling emotions. And, as mentioned, overdoses have increased too. The reporting system ODAP found that in just the first few months of the COVID pandemic overdose rates increased by 18% when compared to the year prior before COVID. 

When it comes to mental health problems and COVID, these too are on the rise and understandably so. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reported that Americans experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, substance use, and other stress-related symptoms doubled from the prior year. 

Often, mental health and substance or alcohol use issues exacerbate one another. The evidence to date from the pandemic reflects this clearly. 

Why Have Alcohol and Drug Use Increased During COVID-19? 

Substance and alcohol use can often begin as a way to cope with being stressed out or feelings of anxiety as well as other mental health issues. During COVID, the spike in mental health issues has been significant. This could be the reason, as many professionals speculate, for some of the increase in alcohol and drug use. 

When it comes to mental health issues, people can tend to self-medicate by taking a drink or drug. And while initially, this may help them to relax a bit, it can—and often does—turn into a more serious issue. During the pandemic when many Americans were quarantined, this turning to a drink or drug came all too easy for many. Individuals who engaged in more drinking and drug use often reported that they had nothing else to do. Sadly, this has led some into dependency on a substance that is now hard to break. 

Additionally, during much of the pandemic so far, many other means of stress relief haven’t been easy to find. For example, social gatherings which can be so helpful for many people’s mental health have been altered and in some cases completely halted. What’s more, gyms and other places like yoga studios and meditation centers have also been closed. This has resulted in limited options for stress relief at the height of the pandemic. And, as mentioned, once dependence has developed, it can be hard to stop. 

Not only has there been an increase in alcohol and drug use but also in overdose rates as mentioned. The APA reports that there can be several causes for this. One reason for the increase in overdoses during the pandemic is the limited availability of certain drugs or even at one point alcohol. This can lead an individual to try a different type of drug that is more readily available. For example, an individual with an addiction to prescription opioids, may turn to illicit fentanyl when they can’t get their drug of choice. Fentanyl is a stronger and far more potent drug than heroin and prescription opioids. This can lead to an increased rate of overdoses. 

Additionally, the increase in death from overdose can be in part attributed to this as well as other factors. One issue is that many Americans are spending more time alone than ever before. Despite quarantine being over, life isn’t back to normal and isolation still exists for many. Research shows that a person is more likely to die from an overdose when they use drugs alone. COVID has left many people isolated and engaging in drug use alone. This is also a reason for the increase in overdose deaths during COVID. 

Another factor that plays into the increase in substance abuse and overdoses during the pandemic is the lack of access to medical care. During the height of the pandemic, most physicians’ offices were not able to see patients at all. This lack of access to medical care plays a vital role in addiction and treatment even aside from the pandemic. This increased lack of access made it even harder for those who needed and wanted treatment for alcohol and substance abuse to get it. 

Now that treatment centers, clinics, and community-based organizations are back up and running, those who need treatment for addiction should be more able to access the help they need. However, there is growing concern about the lack of staff and the ability in both addiction treatment and mental health services to meet the increasing needs of the population. 

Not only has COVID-19 increased the rates of alcohol and drug use as well as overdoses but there are also factors unique to individuals with an AUD or SUD that make them more vulnerable to other issues related to COVID. 

Unique COVID Challenges for Those With Substance Abuse Issues 

COVID-19 has not affected all Americans in the same way. The most vulnerable groups seemed to be suffering the most. Individuals in recovery or those with active substance abuse issues have fared worse during the pandemic. 

According to a research report in Molecular Psychiatry, it was found that those with a SUD have not only a greater risk of getting COVID-19 but also have poorer outcomes once contracted. These worse outcomes include higher rates of hospitalization and mortality. 

In addition, historically, this group of individuals has been slow to receive medical care when needed. The data is not all in; however, it is theorized that those individuals with substance use disorders have less access to the COVID vaccine. This further leads to an increased chance of contracting it. Many in the United States with a substance use disorder are incarcerated. Those individuals incarcerated have an increased risk of contracting COVID. 

When it comes to COVID and addiction rates, there is concern. However, the concerns don’t end there. In addition, the lack of resources for those with an AUD or SUD to get the treatment they need is emerging as a new concern. The mental health field is also overwhelmed and there are long waits to find a counselor in most cases. 

For many with an AUD or SUD, COVID has been the perfect storm propelling their addiction and/or mental health issues to new, more troublesome levels. However, no matter how bad a person’s addiction or mental health issues have become, the right treatment can help. Whether it’s help for addiction or mental health or both, Futures Recovery Healthcare has experience and success in treating both. 

If you or a loved one are worried about alcohol or drug use or think you may have a mental health issue we are here for you. Call us today at 866-804-2098 or contact us online. 

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine, also known by the street names of Special K, K, Horse tranq, Super K, Jet K, Kit Kat, Vitamin K, and more, is a dissociative drug used legally as an anesthetic and more recently approved to use with severe depression. Ketamine is used frequently by veterinarians and much of the illegal ketamine comes from this source. Additionally, ketamine is brought into the United States illegally via Mexico. Ketamine has been used in the U.S. for anesthetic means since the 1970s and was approved for depression treatment in 2019. 

However, despite these legal uses, ketamine is also used by some individuals to get high. The ‘high’ experienced with ketamine includes producing visual and auditory disturbances and makes the user feel disassociated with or ‘out of’ reality. Ketamine is considered to be a ‘club drug’ and is most frequently used at raves, nightclubs, and private parties. 

 How Do People Use Ketamine Illegally? 

When used illegally, ketamine most frequently comes in a white or off-white powder. It can also come in the form of a clear liquid. These come in small glass vials, plastic bags, aluminum foil, glassine, or paper folds. Most times, users snort ketamine or smoke it in a cigarette or with marijuana. Liquid ketamine can be injected or put into beverages. It’s important to note that ketamine has been used as a date rape drug due to its clear nature as a liquid and the effects it produces once consumed. 

When people take ketamine it usually begins to have effects very quickly depending on the method of consumption. If injected, effects begin within minutes, if snorted, effects can be felt within five to 15 minutes, and when consumed orally, the effects occur within about 10 to 30 minutes. Generally, they last for just one or two hours however,  the user can still feel the effects of the drug for up to 24 hours. 

What are the Effects of Ketamine? 

Ketamine produces effects that include disassociation with reality and even hallucinations. The specific effects as well as the intensity and how long they last depend on several factors. These include the individual’s: 

• Size, weight, height
• General health
• Amount consumed
• Other drugs consumed at the same time
• History of ketamine use
• Potency of drug (which varies from one batch to the next)

Once consumed these effects may be felt by the user: 

• Feelings of happiness and relaxation
• Feelings of pain relief
• Feeling detached from reality 
• Feeling detached from body (K-hole)
• Experiencing visual and auditory hallucinations
• Slurring speech
• Experiencing clumsiness 
• Experiencing confusion
• Experiencing nystagmus  or the inability to control eye movements 
• Hallucinating
• Experiencing blurred vision
• Increasing heart rate and blood pressure
• Feelings of anxiety and panic
• Feeling depressed
• Vomiting

These are generally the experiences users have when taking small, recreational-sized doses of ketamine. However, there is the risk of overdose with any drug consumption. With ketamine, the dangers increase when it is combined with other drugs and alcohol. 

Short-term, ketamine has been linked to problems with memory, learning, and attention. In addition, the following are often experienced with short-term use of ketamine: 

• Ongoing dreamlike state
• Hallucinations
• Sedation
• Slowed breathing
• Unconsciousness

For those users who continue to use ketamine on a longer-term basis, they can experience detrimental health issues. These issues can include:

• Diminished sense of smell
• Changes in mood and personality
• Onset of depression
• Inability to concentrate or focus
• Memory issues
• Compromised liver and kidney function
• Ketamine bladder syndrome
• Experiencing ongoing abdominal pain 
• Having flashbacks 

Ketamine bladder syndrome is a condition in which there is generally not only ongoing pain but also incontinence and problems holding urine which can lead to ulcerations in the bladder. This is a serious condition in need of professional medical attention.

All of these long-term effects of ketamine are cause for concern. In addition, long-term users can build up a tolerance, needing more of the drug to obtain the same effect. What’s more, users can become dependent on and addicted to ketamine. 

What many first-time users of ketamine fail to realize is that the aftereffects of using this dangerous drug can last for a day or two following use. Many users have found these following days to be very difficult to navigate. Some of the problems users face when ‘coming down’ from ketamine include the following:

• Compromised judgment and confusion
• Being disoriented
• Having severe anxiety
• Having aches and pains like the flu
• Ongoing clumsiness
• Loss of memory

Many users report the following days to be excruciating and difficult. It’s important to realize that ketamine is a dangerous drug with serious side effects. One of the side effects mentioned is feeling of complete detachment from one’s body or experiencing the K-hole. 

What is a K-Hole? 

Some users experience what is referred to as K-hole when consuming ketamine. This most frequently occurs when users consume larger or more potent amounts of ketamine. It’s important to remember that the potency of ketamine varies from batch to batch. This can be very dangerous for the unsuspecting user. When a user experiences a K-hole they say they have an out-of-body experience and in some cases, users say they have had a near-death experience and met their maker. 

While for some this may sound blissful, the fact is that the users are so impaired both physically and mentally they are completely out of touch with reality and unable to interact with their surrounding environment. This can be dangerous for a number of reasons. When an individual is in this state at a party, rave, club, or even at someone’s home, they can be easily taken advantage of in numerous ways. This is how ketamine is used as a date rape drug. 

It’s vital that not only should users of ketamine be aware that one dose is not always the same as the next but also that ketamine in its liquid form can easily be slipped into drinks. This is why drinks should never be left unattended for any reason. Once a user slips into a K-hole they can be completely out of control of their bodies and thinking leaving them vulnerable to serious harm. 

Treatment for Ketamine Addiction 

When individuals become dependent on or addicted to ketamine, it is highly advised that they seek professional treatment at an addiction treatment center. Once addicted, ketamine users can experience withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop using it. As with other drugs, these symptoms of ketamine withdrawal can be difficult to manage on one’s own. These withdrawal symptoms can include: 

• Cravings for ketamine
• Feeling tired
• Lacking appetite
• Sweating and chills
• Having tremors
• Feeling unable to sit still or being restless
• Having nightmares
• Experiencing anxiety and/or depression
• Having heartbeat issues

In addition to experiencing these withdrawal symptoms when attempting to cut down or stop ketamine use, a person who is addicted to ketamine will most likely start to suffer issues with family, friends, finances, work or school, and other responsibilities. 

Treatment for ketamine addiction works much like treatment for other substance use disorders (SUD). Treatment includes using evidence-based behavioral therapies and other specific programs that are helpful to each specific individual and their unique needs. Treatment for any type of addiction is more than simply stopping using the drug. While this is a vital first step, the underlying issues fueling the addiction must be addressed for long-term recovery. 

If you or someone you love is using ketamine or another drug, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. We offer hope and help to adults struggling with dependency on numerous substances including ketamine. Learn more about how Futures can help online or call us at 866-804-2098.

What to Know About Addiction Treatment and Co-occurring Disorders

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports there are 7.7 million American adults with co-occurring mental health conditions and substance abuse issues. Additionally, of the 20.3 million adults in the United States with substance use disorders, 37.9% also have mental health conditions. What’s more, of the 42.1 million with mental illness, 18.2% also have a co-occurring substance use problem.

A co-occurring disorder, or comorbidity, is when an individual has two or more mental health issues that occur simultaneously or sequentially with one coming after the other. Comorbidity is more common than many believe. Not only does having more than one mental illness somewhat complicate matters, one problem can actually exacerbate or make the other worse and vice versa. However, this is not uncommon.

NIDA also reports that having a mood disorder puts an individual at twice the risk of developing a drug use issue. The reverse is also true, individuals diagnosed with drug use issues are twice as likely to suffer from an underlying mental health disorder.

WHY DO DRUG USE AND MENTAL HEALTH ILLNESSES OCCUR TOGETHER?

When an individual has an alcohol or other drug problem it can often mask other psychiatric disorders. For example, major depressive disorder (MDD) or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Alcohol is a depressant and when a person is an alcoholic they may think they are sad because of the alcohol. However, this may not be the case. When a person is on drugs, their true emotions may also be masked by the effects of the drug. For these reasons, it can be difficult to determine when someone has both an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD) and another mental health condition.

This is one reason it’s essential to fully understand the connection between AUD, SUD, and other mental health issues or co-occurring disorders. Many people want to know why so many with mental disorders also have drug or alcohol issues and vice versa. According to NIDA, there are several reasons for this frequency of occurrence.

1. Some of the common risk factors for developing an alcohol or substance use issue are the same development of another mental illness. These include:

• Brain deficits in certain areas
• Early exposure to trauma and abuse
• Genetics

2. Substances that are commonly abused can often cause symptoms in the users that mimic other mental illnesses. For example, marijuana users report having psychosis at times and research indicates that chronic marijuana use can increase the risk for developing this condition.

3. Individuals with mental illness often turn to alcohol and drugs to self-medicate. For some, the use of alcohol or drugs can initially help to lessen the symptoms. However, over time this use only makes both issues much worse. One example is the use of cigarettes by those who have been diagnosed as schizophrenic. Tobacco has been found to lessen some of the symptoms of schizophrenia and improve mental cognition.

PROPER ASSESSMENT FOR CO-OCCURRING DISORDERS

When it comes to treatment for either mental health disorders or addiction, it’s vital to have a thorough and proper evaluation and assessment. Without this first crucial step, the entire treatment process could potentially not address underlying issues. This is true for both a mental illness and a substance abuse problem.

NIDA recommends broad assessment tools to be used in both situations. If an individual comes for a mental illness such as anxiety or depressive disorder, they should be screened for substance use issues. And vice versa. When an individual is being evaluated for and in treatment for alcohol or drugs, they should be screened for underlying psychiatric disorders.

It’s important in the latter case, to also observe the individual over a period of time when they are abstaining from alcohol or drugs. During this time, other mental illness symptoms may get worse or disappear. When this happens, it’s vital to have resources to address any new psychiatric symptoms immediately.

There are a number of individuals in recovery who once believed they had a psychiatric condition. However, once their bodies and minds became free from substances for a time they found these issues went away. There are also those who after a time sober begin to notice more symptoms of a mental illness. This could be because the drugs or alcohol were helping to mask the mild symptoms that are now presenting. Observing those in treatment for substance use disorder over a period of time is important because there are also withdrawal symptoms that can present as mental health symptoms, such as anxiety, depressive disorder, mood swings, and more.

When assessments for alcohol and drug issues as well as mental health issues are comprehensive, this allows for more accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment plans created to meet that person’s unique needs.

TREATMENT FOR CO-OCCURRING DISORDERS

An individual with co-occurring mental health issues such as alcohol addiction and generalized anxiety disorder needs specialized, targeted, and integrated treatment in order to successfully recover or manage both. One reason for this is that research indicates that individuals with co-occurring conditions that include a substance abuse issue often have mental health symptoms of both that are more severe, persistent, and treatment-resistant. This is compared to those individuals who have only one of the conditions.

However, progress continues to be made in the treatment of dual diagnosis. There are some treatment approaches that have worked better than others. These include the following:

BehavioralTherapies

Behavioral treatments include therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical-behavioral therapy. In addition, there are certain types of therapies found to be more helpful for adults and others more helpful for teens and adolescents. According to NIDA, the following are helpful for adults with co-occurring mental disorders:

• Therapeutic communities
• Assertive community treatment
• Dialectical-behavioral therapy
• Exposure therapy
• Integrated group therapy

They recommend the following for adolescents:

• Multisystemic therapy
• Brief strategic family therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy

And while it is suggested to treat both conditions concurrently, there remain barriers to this approach. These barriers to treatment for co-occurring disorders include the following:

• Many substance abuse treatment centers don’t employ the professionals needed to prescribe, dispense, and monitor medications needed by some for their co-occurring mental illness.
• A high number of individuals in prisons have co-occurring disorders. According to data, a staggering 45% of those in state and local correctional facilities have both a mental illness comorbid with a substance abuse problem. Sadly, effective treatment for both drug and alcohol use as well as other mental health issues is basically nonexistent in these settings.
• The United States often addresses and treats both of these issues, addiction, and mental illness, separately and in different healthcare systems. Primary care providers tend to deal with more mental health issues while addiction is addressed by a number of different types of treatment providers. Neither group really has the expertise to deal with both comprehensively and successfully in many cases.

While barriers to treatment for comorbid issues exist, there are treatment centers that are at the forefront of treating co-occurring disorders. Treatment for co-occurring disorders does work and thousands have found they are able to recover from addiction and manage their mental illness.

If you or someone you love has both a mental illness and addiction issues, Futures Recovery Healthcare can help. Utilizing evidence-based therapies with medical and addiction treatment professionals, Futures has helped so many recover from comorbid conditions and improve their quality of life. We want to help you too.

Reach out online or call us at 866-804-2098.

What is California Sober? Get the Facts

California Sober is a somewhat newly coined term made well known by the pop singer, Demi Lovato. In her song, California Sober, Lovato talks about her ‘semi-sobriety’ also known as California Sober. And while this trend is gaining momentum, it’s important to understand what it is and how it can endanger recovery. 

In her song, California Sober, Lovato says the following: 

Cashin’ in my chips for forgiveness

Trading in my shame for perspective

Tired of being known for my sickness

It didn’t work, I’m tryin’ something different

She also says, 

Used to live in fear of always slipping

But living for perfection isn’t living

What Lovato is referring to in these lyrics seems to be related to the traditional—and proven—approach to getting sober. Traditionally, getting sober meant to completely abstain from alcohol and all drugs. This approach to sobriety has worked for hundreds of thousands of people. However, California Sober, is a twist on true sobriety. In fact, many would say that being California Sober isn’t really being sober at all. 

The term California Sober isn’t a medical term or recognized as a type of sobriety by any of the leading drug and alcohol groups or mental health groups. According to the Urban Dictionary, California Sober is when individuals only engage in using marijuana and some psychedelics. However, for many, California Sober also includes the moderate use of alcohol. This is the case with Demi Lovato. 

Lovato stated in an interview with CBS Sunday Morning the following, 

“I think the term that I best identify with is ‘California Sober.’” “I really don’t feel comfortable explaining the parameters of my recovery to people because I don’t want anyone to look at my parameters of safety and think that’s what works for them because it might not.”

Lovato has been open about her use of alcohol in moderation in addition to marijuana use. For many, this is an appealing route to sobriety. When faced with stopping using any kind of mind-altering substance many are full of fear. Facing reality without a ‘buffer’ can seem unbearable. So, for this group, California Sober may seem like a light in the dark. However, it’s vital that this be approached with caution. 

Does California Sober Work? 

Recently, there has been a shift towards individuals wanting to drink less and stop using dangerous drugs. The pandemic increased alcohol consumption for many who now are looking at their lives and seeing the detrimental impacts of its use. This has led to a sober-curious movement across the nation. And while this is a good trend, it’s important to understand that for anyone with real alcohol or drug dependence simply cutting back on alcohol or drug use isn’t the solution. 

For individuals who are not addicted to alcohol or drugs, being California Sober may work. In this case, these individuals would not use hard drugs such as cocaine and heroin. However, they would continue to drink in moderation, use marijuana, and even certain psychedelics. But this isn’t how it typically works for someone who is addicted. 

When someone is diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD), it’s more than just the drug of choice that’s the issue. Many with addiction issues have underlying issues which propel them to use alcohol or drugs in the first place. When these issues, which are often trauma-based, aren’t addressed, the problem still exists. And, being California Sober is continuing to remove them from reality and let the underlying issues continue to fester. 

It’s imperative for someone who wants to truly recover from alcohol and/or drugs to do the work associated. This means addressing underlying issues, facing fears and emotions without the cushion of any type of substance, and taking one day at a time to live completely drug-free. 

Not only does being Cali Sober stop these processes, but it can also lead many back to heavier drug use. When the underlying issues associated with and propelling addiction aren’t addressed, they will certainly pop up again and this can lead to further addiction issues. For those who have just used marijuana in recovery, they have often found themselves back to full drug use in a matter of time. 

In addition, those who have struggled with addiction issues in the past may quickly find themselves addicted to these ‘less harmful’ drugs like marijuana. This may not happen immediately with the first use, but it’s vital to remember that addiction is a chronic and progressive disease. This means that left untreated and with continued use, it becomes worse, never better. 

California Sober is very appealing to many. For those who don’t have a SUD or AUD, it can be helpful in living healthier lives free of hangovers and other aches and pains associated with alcohol and drug use. However, for those who have real addiction issues, California Sober can be a way to delay actually getting sober. True freedom from addiction comes with complete sobriety from all substances. 

Many who use alcohol and drugs to cope or take the edge off deeply fear facing life without this crutch. However, they are only robbing themselves of true happiness and freedom. Facing life, its ups and downs, good times and bad, being completely sober and feeling all emotions is real freedom. And while many fear this, once it’s been embraced life will be beyond your wildest dreams and you will have true freedom. 

The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous talks about how being semi-sober will turn out. On page 58 the following is stated:

“We thought we could find an easier, softer way but we could not. With all the earnestness at our command, we beg of you to be fearless and thorough from the very start.”

The Big Book of AA was first written in the 1930s and this clearly states that the ‘easier, softer way’ doesn’t work. While there are various ways to get sober today, AA remains one of the most popular and proven-to-work approaches. The authors of this book who started AA make it clear that total abstinence is the only true way to recover for life. 

California Sober definitely is an easier, softer way. Whether it works or not for singer Demi Lovato remains to be seen. Everyone’s path of recovery is unique to them just as their treatment should be. What works for one may not work for the next. 

If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol or drug use, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. We offer our clients multiple pathways to recovery and believe that recovery is possible for all who truly want it. 

Contact us online today to learn more or call us at 866-804-2098.

What is Kratom?

Kratom refers to an extract from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree which is native to Southeast Asia. The compounds found in these leaves can have mind-altering or psychotropic effects. Kratom is legal in the United States and is often sold as an energy booster, mood enhancer, and pain reliever. In some cases, kratom is used to treat opioid withdrawal symptoms. 

Despite this psychotropic drug being legal, it is not always safe. There are numerous safety-related concerns when it comes to using kratom. Kratom is often sold as a green powder (labeled ‘not for human consumption’) and is used by any of the following methods: 

• Pill or capsule
• Extract
• Gum or chewing the leaves
• Brewing leaves or powder into a tea
• Eating the leaves in foods 
• Smoking the leaves

Depending on the method of consumption as well as the amount consumed, kratom can have different effects on people. In addition, the health of the individual can play an important role in the effects of kratom on the body. For some, it is more dangerous than for others. 

Once consumed, the effects begin to be felt within about 20 to 40 minutes. These can last for up to six hours with the peak effects occurring around two hours after using it. In low doses, kratom can act as a stimulant and deliver energizing effects. In higher doses, kratom can bring on euphoric feelings, relieve pain, and even act as a sedative. 

How Does Kratom Affect People? 

Many people use kratom because it is ‘all natural’ and they believe it is safe. However, as mentioned, this isn’t always the case. One of the problems with using kratom is that the active ingredient can vary greatly. Therefore, the user never really knows how much they are getting. This can be troublesome for various reasons. For example, if an individual wanted to use kratom for its energizing effects for a drive they were taking but ended up with sedative effects. Energizing effects occur at low doses but if the kratom they consumed had an unusually high amount of active compounds then the effects could produce sedation which would make it very dangerous to drive. Currently, this drug is unregulated and it is impossible to know exactly what you are getting. 

Side Effects of Kratom 

Additionally, there are certain health concerns with kratom use in general. Some of these reported health side effects are: 

• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Psychosis
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Sweating 
• Itching 
• Loss of appetite
• Increase in urination

Kratom acts on opioid receptors and other receptor systems in the brain. The active chemicals found in kratom which produce these side effects are mitragynine and 7-α-hydroxymitragynine. In different doses, they produce different effects as mentioned. 

The above-listed symptoms may occur with the first use of kratom. Using kratom regularly or long-term can also have side effects in addition to these. These long-term side effects of kratom can include:

• Liver damage
• Muscle pain
• Chills
• Weight loss

Not only does kratom impact the body in these dangerous and unpleasant ways, but it also has an effect on the mind and body’s nervous system. These effects can include: 

• Delusions
• Depression
• Breathing issues
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Coma
• Death

The Poison Control Center reported 1,800 calls with individuals who had taken kratom between 2011 and 2017. Additionally, a 2019 report analyzing data from the National Poison Data System found 11 deaths associated with kratom use. Of the 11, nine involved other substances or medicines in addition to kratom, however, two involved kratom alone. As kratom gains more popularity and use increases, it’s important to be aware that this legally sold substance can be a dangerous drug. 

Kratom has been found to sometimes be contaminated with salmonella bacteria. Reports show that 138 people in 38 states became ill from salmonella after consuming kratom. This report was as of April 2018. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has linked 35 deaths to salmonella-contaminated kratom. This is yet another safety concern kratom use poses. Another question commonly asked about kratom is “is kratom addictive?”

Is Kratom Addictive? 

As with other substances that act on opioid receptors, individuals can become dependent on kratom which can then lead to addiction. Users report becoming addicted to kratom and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop. According to research, individuals who used kratom to treat opioid withdrawal for more than six months reported withdrawal symptoms very much like those of opioid withdrawal. And, users of kratom who have become addicted have been treated with medications, like Narcan and Buprenex, used to treat opioid withdrawal.

There’s no doubt that kratom is addictive. Knowing the following signs of kratom withdrawal can help to determine if someone is addicted. When an individual stops using kratom or cuts down significantly they may experience any of the following withdrawal symptoms:

• Irritability
• Aggression
• Hostility
• Insomnia
• Jerky body movements
• Mood changes
• Runny nose 

In addition, the typical signs of addiction are also important to look for in someone who is using kratom. These include the inability to stop using despite wanting to as well as behaviors that are centralized around getting, using, and recovering from the drug. 

It’s important to understand that despite kratom being legal and easily obtainable online, it is a dangerous drug with side effects that can cause permanent issues and even death in some cases. If you or someone you love is using kratom and you think there may be a problem, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. Offering treatment programs for individuals with varying needs our caring professionals treat everyone with respect and are devoted to helping all clients recover. 

Treatment for Kratom Addiction 

Treatment for kratom addiction is similar to treatments for opioids and other addictions. Evidence-based therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) have both been shown to be successful in treating kratom addiction. Kratom is relatively new in the United States and more research is needed into specifics of kratom addiction as well as the best treatment approaches. 

As with all addiction treatment programs, comprehensive treatment tailored to meet each person’s unique needs is essential. In addition, any underlying issues that may be contributing to or exacerbating the problem should be addressed. 

At Futures, we believe in comprehensive, holistic care for each person we treat. Our caring, compassionate staff take the time to thoroughly evaluate each individual and find the program best for them. Addiction treatment is not a one size fits all approach. Discover our three treatment programs for addiction and see which one may be a fit for you or a loved one; Core, Orenda, Rise. 

Call us today and start recovering tomorrow. Visit online or call 866-804-2098.

Stress, Mental Health, and Addiction

Are you stressed out? Do you feel overwhelmed? Chances are you do. About 60% of American adults report being ‘stressed’, according to a 2020 Gallup poll. What’s even more concerning is that this number has increased at an unprecedented rate (14%) since the pandemic. Normally, the number of American adults who report being ‘stressed out’ stays relatively the same with small fluctuations from one year to the next. 

Additionally, it’s important to note that more individuals in the Gen Z age group are struggling with higher levels of stress than any other generation. According to research, 6.1 of 10 people from Gen Z report experiencing high levels of stress. The Gen Z group includes adults aged 18 to 23 years. 

The pandemic has resulted in more and more adults—as well as kids, teens, and young adults—feeling the pressure. This is not only from the pandemic, but also from civil unrest, and the state of the world. November 3, 2021 is National Stress Awareness Day and there’s no better time to get a handle on your stress and find healthy ways to cope and reduce it. 

What is Stress? 

First, it’s important to understand a little bit about stress. There is ‘good’ stress and then there is ‘bad’ stress. While most of us may feel like any kind of stress is bad, that’s not really the case. ‘Good’ stress can help us do well on tests, in interviews, during presentations, and more. In times of immediate danger, stress can save our lives and sometimes the lives of our loved ones. 

Everyone faces some type of stress. Whether it’s minor, occasional stress, or more frequent and severe stress, our bodies are designed to sense stress and then respond appropriately. When our bodies sense stress there are both physical and mental reactions. 

The body responds to stress in several ways. When you are faced with danger or perceived danger, the pulse rate quickens, the heart rate speeds up, muscles tense up, and the brain uses more oxygen and picks up activity. All of these physical responses occur because the brain is preparing the body to ‘fight’ or ‘flee’, as in ‘fight or flight response’. 

After the danger passes, the body returns to normal functioning and life resumes as before. The problem arises when there is chronic stress. With chronic stress, the body remains in ‘fight or flight’ mode for prolonged periods of time. When the body operates in fight or flight mode on an ongoing basis, trouble can begin. 

Sadly, this type of chronic stress is what most Americans are living with today. And the impacts on the body, mind, and spirit can be devastating. 

Physical Effects of Chronic Stress

When it comes to chronic stress, the body never gets the signal to return to normal functioning. The changes it undergoes in order to deal with the stress then continues. This can result in harmful effects on the body. Chronic stress can impact:

• Immune system
• Digestive system
• Cardiovascular system
• Reproductive system
• Sleep patterns

When these issues are continual, the results can be high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and more disabling and deadly conditions. 

In addition, chronic stress impacts your mental health. Chronic stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. These, in turn, can also have negative impacts on your physical health further exacerbating the issues. 

If you or a loved one are dealing with chronic stress it’s vital to seek help. The sooner you do so the better. When chronic stress is handled early on, you can decrease the risk of developing these physical and mental health issues mentioned. However, when stress just continues on and on left unchecked, the results can be more severe. 

Chronic Stress and Substance Abuse 

There are many different ways to deal with stress. Some are healthy, some are not. As mentioned, substance abuse can be a result of chronic stress. Some people may wonder how stress and alcohol or substance abuse are connected. 

When someone is dealing with stress, they will often use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate. Most everyone has said or heard someone say they want to go out and ‘blow off some steam’. In other words, they are stressed out and need relief from the stress. Many times this can mean a night out with friends or happy hour after a long work week. And while this may help relieve some surface-level stress, it can be the start of a bad habit. 

This well-meaning way to relieve some of the stress and anxiety can—and often does—turn into a coping mechanism for stress. Over time, when someone begins to rely on alcohol or another substance, it can lead to dependence and even addiction. This is one reason it’s so vital to not only learn healthy ways to cope with stress but also to get help sooner than later when it comes to chronic stress, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. 

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that about 7.7 million Americans suffer from a  mental health disorder such as depression or anxiety and substance abuse issues such as alcohol addiction. It can be difficult to determine which presented first, but it is often discovered during treatment that the substances were used to help with the other mental health disorder. 

No matter which occurred first, it’s important to get treatment for them both at the same time. This will give you the best chance at long-term recovery from both. If, for example, you or a loved one have an alcohol issue but are also suffering from depression it’s vital to treat both. If you only get treatment for the substance use disorder, in this example alcohol dependence, then once you leave treatment without addressing the depression, it’s more likely that you would then pick up alcohol to help ease the pain of the depression. As you can see, it’s essential that any co-occurring disorders be treated at the same time. 

When it comes to an alcohol or substance abuse issue, professional treatment is essential. Professional help is equally important when it comes to mental health disorders too. However, when it comes to ways to cope with stress, there are steps you can take yourself to help lessen stress and deal with it when it comes.

Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress

Often we can feel almost paralyzed by stress. When it comes to chronic stress this can be true as well. In addition, when it comes to chronic stress many people can become stuck in their unhealthy coping habits. However, making some small adjustments can really go a long way. 

Here are a few tried and true ways to cope with stress:

• Exercise

When someone is stressed out they may not want to take the time or make the effort to exercise. However, research shows that 30 minutes of exercise can improve mood, reduce tension, improve sleep, and even boost self-esteem. You don’t have to run on a treadmill or jog in a park, you can find your own kind of exercise to engage in for stress relief.

• Breathing

Most everyone has heard someone tell another to ‘take a deep breath’ when they are upset. And while this often sounds cliche, deep breathing can reap tremendous benefits when it comes to stress—both short and long-term. There are numerous types of breathing methods that help to slow the body’s nervous system and calm you. Learn more about breathing techniques for stress reduction.

• Observe

It’s important to be observant of your body and what is going on with it. Pay attention to areas where stress manifests for you. Do you get tense shoulders and neck? Do you start to feel restless and irritable? Are you having sleep issues? When you realize that you are showing signs of being stressed out, take a step back and start using some of these healthy ways to cope with stress. 

• Connections

Staying connected in some way to others who care is important to help with stress. Maintain relationships with family and good friends even when you are ‘stressed out’. These connections will help you to be resilient and bounce back from times of stress more easily. 

• Ask for help

For many people, asking for help can be the most difficult thing to do. However, everyone needs help from time to time. It’s important to be able to reach out and ask for help. If you are overwhelmed with daily activities and chores, ask someone to pitch in and help. If your budget allows, hire someone to give you an extra hand around the house with cleaning or some other chore. Often there are teenagers looking to make a few extra bucks who will gladly clean your house, cut your grass, or even help with kids. 

If you are feeling depressed, anxious, or really overwhelmed with life and stress, reach out to your primary caregiver, find a counselor, talk to your religious leader, or seek treatment for any co-occurring substance abuse issues. 

The sooner you get help, the better. No matter how stressed out you may feel now, it’s important to realize that it doesn’t have to stay this way and it will get better. If you or a loved one need help with substance abuse or mental health disorder, Futures Recovery Healthcare is here for you. We offer three different residential treatment programs for alcohol and substance abuse. In addition, we successfully treat co-occurring disorders. Futures is also proud to have an inpatient treatment program solely devoted to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. 

Asking for help can be the hardest step but it can also result in the greatest rewards. Connect with Futures today and start healing tomorrow. Visit us online to learn more or call 866-804-2098.

First Responders and Mental Health: Supporting Our Heroes

First responders suffer more from mental health issues than the general public. This group of individuals is exposed to more significant trauma on a regular basis. Research shows it’s resulting in increased rates of mental health disorders and suicide. In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), upwards of 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions. 

First responders are specially trained individuals who respond to emergency situations first and are oftentimes not only putting themselves in harm’s way but also witnessing horrific scenes, conditions, and behaviors by others. Police officers, firefighters, emergency medical, 911 dispatchers, and related personnel. Not only do these individuals face the initial challenging and often dangerous situation, but first responders are also usually the first to reach out to disaster survivors, families, and loved ones to provide them with emotional and physical support. 

These services are essential and keep communities and community members safe and supported particularly during crises and emergencies. However, the toll exacted on first responders can be heavy, particularly with time. Years of responding to tragic scenes and seeing the worst of humanity can lead to serious mental health issues including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and suicide. It’s essential to raise awareness about the mental health issues impacting this group and break the barriers they may face for treatment. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more police officers and firefighters die from suicide each year than in the line of duty. Reports indicated that each year about 140 to 300 police officers commit suicide. In addition, the rate of suicide for firefighters is also higher than the general population with about 105 dying each year by suicide. EMS personnel are also nearly 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. 

Depression, PTSD, and Suicide Plague First Responders 

Mental health issues that most commonly impact first responders are depression, PTSD, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. After all that these individuals experience on the job, it’s easy to see why they would be impacted by these issues. One of the risk factors further increasing the issue is that most first responders don’t have time to process traumatic events before they are faced with another equally traumatic event. 

Most first responders don’t get the mental health support they need, particularly in the workplace. What’s more, COVID-19 and the civil unrest in the United States are making the issue worse. It’s essential that first responders have the ability to access mental health support and services when they need them. 

Depression amongst first responders is higher than in the rest of the population. Recent data reveals that about 30% of all first responders have depression or PTSD. About 9% of the general population suffers from depression. This clearly illustrates how much higher the rates of certain mental health disorders are for this group. Depression impacts daily life and depending on how severe it is can lead to more serious issues like suicide. SAMSHA’s Disaster Technical Assistance Center bulletin reports that 37% of fire and EMS personnel have contemplated suicide—that’s nearly 10 times higher than the general population. 

In an article for the American Counseling Association, Drew Prochniak, a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) and licensed professional counselor (LPC) points out why first responders may suffer more from these mental health conditions. 

“Our worst day is first responders’ every day,” he says. “Their days are filled with accidents, pain, grief, loss, and trauma.”

It’s no wonder they are suffering more from these mental health conditions. It is vital that first responders also have access to counseling and support services tailored to meet their unique needs. For example, a counselor who may work well with members of the general population may not be trained or able to work effectively with a first responder. First responders need to be able to share the difficult, painful, and often grisly details of their experiences, not all counselors are equipped to deal with this. However, it’s more vital today than ever. 

Many of these traumatic events they face also cause PTSD. PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder occurs when a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. First responders do this every day. PTSD can impact daily life from flashbacks to anxiety and more. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 18-24% of emergency dispatchers and 35% of police officers suffer from PTSD. Yet despite these overwhelming and growing numbers, most first responders’ organizations don’t provide adequate support for these issues. Data shows that of the more than 18,000 law enforcement agencies across the nation, only 3-5% have suicide prevention training. 

Traditionally, first responders are thought of as ‘tough’ and able to handle trauma. And while this may be true, it’s essential to realize that everyone needs support at some time or another. This mentality of first responders having to be strong and tough adds to the stigma for them to get help. Many times seeking help is thought of as being weak, particularly in this community. It’s vital to break the stigmas associated with depression, PTSD, substance abuse, suicide, and more. This is particularly true for this group who are taking their own lives at unprecedented rates.

Access to Mental Health Care for First Responders 

In addition to the barrier of stigma being attached to seeking mental health care, there is also a lack of resources for first responders. As mentioned, this group needs support specifically targeted to meet their unique circumstances and needs. 

When mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, and substance abuse are ignored, the results can be devastating. In most cases, these mental health conditions only worsen without help. For some who suffer from depression or PTSD, it may lead to substance abuse issues including alcohol abuse. Many times first responders self-medicate to relieve the pain, memories, and stress. And while at first, this may seem to ‘take the edge off’ for some this will lead to full-blown addiction to alcohol or drugs. When this happens, there is a co-occurring disorder such as depression and alcohol abuse. With co-occurring disorders, it’s critical to treat both issues at the same time. 

It’s vital that first responders have access to treatment for mental health disorders. One of the reported barriers is the associated stigma. Another reported barrier is the cost of mental health care. There are currently both state and legislative proposals to allow first responders to utilize worker’s compensation in order to get the mental health treatment they need. 

In a report from the Ruderman Family Foundation, president Jay Ruderman expressed the importance of helping first responders. 

“First responders are heroes who run towards danger every day in order to save the lives of others. They are also human beings, and their work exerts a toll on their mental health,” said Ruderman. “It is our obligation to support them in every way possible – to make sure that they feel welcome and able to access life-saving mental health care. “

The mental health of first responders impacts more than just them. In addition, family, loved ones, friends, and coworkers can be negatively impacted. When someone is suffering from depression, PTSD, anxiety, substance abuse, etc. their families and loved ones can also be detrimentally affected. It’s vital that first responders are able to get the help they need so they and their families can live healthy, happy lives too. 

At Futures Recovery Healthcare we are devoted to helping first responders and their families get treatment for mental health conditions including depression, PTSD, anxiety, and substance abuse. We understand how important it is for these individuals to have comprehensive, customized care that addresses their unique mental health needs. 

Our Hero’s Ascent First Responders’ Track, helps to identify any underlying conditions such as trauma, chronic pain, addiction, and other issues commonly experienced by first responders. In addition, medical, psychiatric, individual and group therapy, physical therapy, and neurostimulation are incorporated into treatment plans as needed. Family therapy also plays an important role in treatment for first responders. Therapy, support, and resources are provided to help family members understand their loved one’s mental health conditions and support them through their recovery. 

If you are a first responder and living with depression, PTSD, substance abuse, or another mental health concern, Futures can help. In addition to our Hero’s Ascent First Responders’ Track, we have a program for mental health support only. 

You don’t have to suffer anymore. After taking care of others and putting your life on the line, it’s time to let others support you. Don’t suffer in silence. Futures can help. Contact us confidentially online or call 866-804-2098.

What is Depression?

Everyone experiences sad feelings from time to time. From feeling down and lethargic to not wanting to spend time with family and friends, being down in the dumps happens in life. when these feelings of sadness stick around, it could indicate clinical depression. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that about 5% of adults across the globe suffer from depression. That’s about 280 million adults living with some type of depression. When it comes to those under the age of 18, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reports about 3.7% of children aged three to 17 years have been diagnosed with depression. That’s nearly 2 million youth in the United States alone living with depression.

Depression can have detrimental impacts on all areas of a person’s life. Not only does the individual live with the feelings of sadness on a daily basis, but this also affects how they function. Depression can impede a person’s work, school, and social life. Often, when someone has depression, they are unable to function well let alone at their full potential. 

At its worst, depression can result in suicide. The WHO reports that each year about 700,000 people across the world die by suicide. In the U.S., the CDC reports that there are nearly 50,000 suicides annually. 

Depression is real. Depression not only robs a person and their loved ones of precious moments in life, but it can also kill. It’s essential to understand more about what depression is, what it looks like in adults, youth, and the elderly, and how to get effective treatment for it. 

October 7 is National Depression Screening Day observed across the United States. This day’s aim is to not only get more people struggling with depression diagnosed and treated but also to raise awareness of the prevalence of depression in our great nation and help more people in need to get help.

 What are the Most Common Types of Depression? 

Depression is a mood disorder. There are several types of depression and depression can be mild, moderate, or severe. The Diagnostics and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V) lists certain criteria to determine depression. The number of criteria met helps to determine if the depression is mild, moderate, or severe. This also helps to steer the course of treatment. 

As mentioned, there are different types of depression. Let’s explore a few:

Clinical or Major Depression

Clinical depression is one of the most common types of mental health disorders. Clinical depression can begin at any time and under any circumstances. This mood disorder is characterized by a persistent sad or depressed mood. In addition, the loss of interest in activities is also common with major or clinical depression.

Signs of Clinical Depression

• Having feelings of hopelessness
• Having feelings of sadness and emptiness
• Having decreased interest or complete lack of interest in formerly enjoyed activities
• Having feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or being helpless
• Having a lack of energy, feelings of fatigue
• Having feelings of restlessness and irritability
• Experiencing changes in eating habits
• Experiencing changes in sleep patterns
• Experiencing physical problems such as stomach issues, headaches, aches and pains
• Having trouble making decisions, focusing, or remembering
• Having suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts

The DSM-V states that these symptoms need to be present for at least two weeks to be diagnosed with depression. 

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder or bipolar depression is not the same as clinical depression and is characterized by very low ‘lows’ and very high ‘highs’. The symptoms during the lows are reflective of the same symptoms of clinical or major depression. However, the symptoms during the manic stages are not. These manic or euphoric stages can be extreme (mania) or in some cases a bit less extreme (hypomania). 

Signs of Bipolar Disorder

(Manic episode)

• Having high amounts of energy
• Having a reduced need for sleep
• Being out of touch with reality

(Depressive episode)

• Having low amounts of energy
• Experiencing a lack of motivation
• Having feelings of sadness and hopelessness
• Experiencing a loss of interest in activities

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

This type of depression most commonly occurs during the winter months in regions where there is much less sun at that time of year. With SAD, once the spring and summer months return, the depression lifts. 

Signs of SAD

• Experiencing social withdrawal
• Engaging in sleeping more
• Experiencing changes in weight particularly weight gain
• Experiencing feelings of sadness and hopelessness
• Experiencing lack of motivation and fatigue

When it comes to SAD and how it is different from clinical depression is that these symptoms generally stop once the increased hours of sunlight return. As awareness of SAD grows, so too do the diagnoses. 

Signs of Depression in Adolescents and the Elderly

Many of the signs of depression from one type to the next are similar. So too, are some of the signs of depression in both adolescents and the elderly. However, depression in both of these groups can present a bit differently so it’s vital to understand these differences. 

Signs of Depression in Adolescents and Teens

When it comes to our nation’s youth, many are struggling with mental health disorders including depression. However, these mental health disorders may mask one another making diagnosis and effective treatment delayed. According to the CDC, one out of two children diagnosed with depression also has behavioral problems. 

In addition to the typical signs of depression, the following are also symptoms of depression in teens and adolescents:

• Being grumpy or cranky
• Being more sensitive to being told ‘no’ or perceived rejection
• Crying more often
• Experiencing vocal outbursts such as yelling and tantrums
• Experiencing problems interacting with friends, family, and teachers
• Having a loss of interest in sports and extracurricular activities once enjoyed
• Thinking or talking about suicide

It’s important to understand that not all youth will show all of these signs. In fact, most often some show some signs and they tend to change from one situation to the next as well as during different times. For older youth and teens, there may be a start of alcohol or drug use during this time as well. 

With suicide rates increasing in youth, it’s vital to be aware of depression and the signs of it. Today, suicide is the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 10 to 24 years old. If you are depressed or feeling suicidal you are not alone. Call the National Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255 or text to 741741 for any type of teen crisis. 

Depression in the elderly can also manifest in different ways. Some of the signs of depression in the elderly are written off as typical aging issues, however, too often that isn’t the case and depression goes undiagnosed. If an elderly person has experienced depression earlier in life, they are more likely to develop it later in life. 

According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA) there are four types of depression more common amongst the elderly. All of these are treatable. 

1. Major depressive disorder
2. Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
3. Substance/medication-induced depressive disorder
4. Depressive disorder associated with a medical condition

Depression in older adults is linked to higher rates of cardiac issues. In addition, older adults who have medical problems and depression have lower rates of rehabilitation. This is possibly due to depression causing lack of motivation, problems with sleep and eating, and more. 

In addition to the typical signs of depression other signs of depression in older adults can include any of the following:

• Feeling tired often
• Having trouble sleeping
• Feeling confused
• Being grumpy or irritable
• Experiencing trouble focusing or paying attention
• Stopping engaging in activities they used to enjoy
• Enduring aches and pains without seeking help for them
• Moving slowly
• Having changes in appetite or weight

It’s important to realize that depression and suicide are real threats to the elderly. In fact, the NIMH considers depression in those over 65 to be a significant public health problem. Suicide in this age group is an issue too with those in the age range of 80 to 84 years old having twice the risk for suicide as the general population. 

No matter what age, gender, race, socio-economic or educational background someone has, they can have depression. And, no matter what type of depression someone has or how severe it is, treatment for depression works. 

Treatments for depression typically can include psychotherapy or counseling. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical-behavior therapy are both types of therapies that have been found to be effective in treating several types of depression. In addition, medications may be used to help. Each course of treatment is based on factors specific to the individual in need. 

It’s also important to note that about 20% of those with a mental health disorder such as depression also have an alcohol or substance use disorder. This is called having co-occurring disorders. Often, those with a mental health disorder such as depression or anxiety will ‘self-medicate’ in order to relieve some discomfort. Sadly, this can turn into a problem of its own and often exacerbates the original problem. As time goes on, one problem can make the other worse and vice versa. 

If there is a co-occurring disorder suspected or present it’s essential to find a treatment center that is experienced and successful in treating both disorders. At Futures Recovery Healthcare our compassionate experts treat mental health disorders including depression, alcohol use disorders, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. 

Depression can be paralyzing. It can rob you of the joys of daily life and make it seem impossible to feel better. However, that isn’t the case. Treatment for depression works. It has worked for thousands of others and can work for you or your loved one too. 

If you are in immediate crisis or feeling depressed, call 911 or the National Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255. You can also visit them online to chat or learn more. These services are free and confidential and available 24/7. 

When you’re ready to get help for depression, another mood disorder, or treatment for addiction or co-occurring disorders, Futures is here for you. Learn more about our co-occurring disorders program, our mental health program, and our substance abuse programs today. Call us at 866-804-2098. You aren’t alone and you don’t have to suffer any longer—we can help!

October is National Bullying Prevention Month: Find Out How to Prevent Bullying

October is National Bullying Prevention Month with October 13 being Stop Bullying Day also known as Unity Day. These national campaigns that aim to spread awareness and prevention first became nationally recognized in 2006. Founded by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, the goal is to not only prevent bullying but also promote kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. 

In schools, neighborhoods, and clubs across the United States, bullying is on the rise. From cyberbullies to those who bully in person, the need for understanding of this problem, awareness, and ways to prevent and stop it is essential now more than ever. Not only does bullying contribute to depression, anxiety, and suicide, it can cause serious problems later in life for both the person who is being bullied and the bully. 

Bullying Today: Get the Facts 

Most people have felt intimidated during their elementary or high school years by another student but today’s bullying has taken on entirely new levels of abuse. With the advent of social media, the person being bullied often cannot escape their tormentor no matter where they are. The statistics related to bullying are alarming and the problem is only getting worse. Here are some facts about bullying today according to PACER’s: 

• 20.2% or one out of five students report being bullied
• 41% of students who reported being bullied believe the bullying will continue
• 24% of females report being bullied
• 17% of males report being bullied
• 49.8% of students between 9 and 12 years of age report being involved in cyberbullying (either bullied, doing the bullying, or witnessing another being bullied)
• Students report being bullied in the following areas:
  • 43% in the hallway
  • 42% in the classroom
  • 27% in the cafeteria
  • 22% off school grounds 
  • 15% online or by text
  • 12% in the locker room or bathroom
  • 8% on the bus
• 46% of students being bullied report it
• Students report being bullied about the following:
  • Physical appearance
  • Race or ethnicity
  • Gender
  • Disability
  • Religion
  • Sexual orientation

No matter what the bullying is about, it can result in serious and long-lasting effects on the person dealing with the bully. It’s essential that awareness of this serious problem is raised but also that tools to prevent bullying and properly handle bullying when it happens are more accessible. Data from PACER’s also shows that when schools implement bullying programs, bullying decreases by about 25%. 

Everyone can play a role in the prevention of bullying. From families and friends to teachers, schools, and coaches, knowing how to spot bullying early on and what to do is essential in order to help youth in need. The effects of bullying can be significant and long-lasting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that youth who are bullied report more of the following mental health conditions:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep issues

In addition, students who are bullied are more likely to have lower academic achievement and higher dropout rates. Students involved in bullying also report:

• Increased, twice as many, health problems such as headaches and stomaches than their non bullied peers
• Decreased self-esteem
• Increased problems with family and friend relationships
• Increased risk for mental health issues (in both those who are bullied and the bullies)
• Increased risk for delinquent behavior (in bullies)
• Increased risk for maladjustment

It’s also vital to understand that being bullied can lead to an increased risk for the development of an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder( SUD). This risk also has other factors involved but being bullied and experiencing trauma in childhood are both factors that increase an individual’s risk for developing one or both of these addictions. 

Bullying and Increased Risk for AUD and SUD

When it comes to bullying most people think about the person who is being bullied. And while it’s vital that the person being bullied is helped immediately, it’s also essential to recognize that the person doing the bullying is also at risk for developing mental health disorders. In fact, those students who report being both bullied and engaging in bullying are at the greatest risk for adverse outcomes. 

To date, there isn’t conclusive evidence linking bullying directly to substance abuse, but the correlation is there. The LGBTQ+ community is an example of this. This group has higher rates of being bullied as well as higher rates of substance and alcohol use issues. Many times a person who is feeling uncomfortable in their own skin may begin to drink or use drugs to help ease these feelings. In addition, during the school years, many individuals succumb to peer pressure. If someone is being bullied or feels like they don’t fit in it may be easier for them to give in to peer pressure. 

And, as many addictions go, what starts innocently may turn into dependence on that substance in order to just feel okay. Many people in recovery often tell the story of how they just wanted to feel normal or fit in and that led them to take their first drink or use a drug. For some, this first use will simply be a memory but for others, it will be the first step in becoming addicted. In addition to bullying, there are other factors that contribute to a person developing an AUD or SUD. 

It’s also important to note that today’s youth are developing other types of addiction. Many of these have to do with video gaming, internet use, and other online dependencies. These also can help the person to escape their world and feel like they fit in somewhere. Parents, teachers, and others involved with youth need to be aware of these process or behavioral addictions. They can also cause problems in the person’s life. 

Factors Increasing the Risk for Addiction

As mentioned, there are certain factors that increase a person’s risk of developing an addiction. Being aware of these risk factors and a person’s behaviors with alcohol and drugs is essential for early intervention and prevention. Here are some factors that experts believe increase a person’s risk for alcohol or substance abuse: 

• Family history of addiction

Certain models of addiction reveal a genetic factor. If there is a family history of addiction, there is a greater risk of developing an addiction.

• Presence of certain mental health disorders

The presence of mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, or ADHD can increase the risk of addiction. 

• Impulse control issues

Youth (or adults) with impulse control or behavioral issues are more at risk. 

• History of trauma

Children who experience or witness traumatic events such as violence in their youth are also at greater risk for addiction. 

• Environmental factors

This includes cultural views on drugs and alcohol, peer and family use of drugs and alcohol, and how easy access to these substances all contribute to developing an alcohol or drug dependence. 

• Age of first use

The early in life an individual first tries alcohol or drugs is crucial to the outcome. Research shows that the earlier a substance is used, the more likely addiction will develop. 

Addiction can happen to anyone. An individual can have all of these risk factors and never develop an AUD or SUD. However, an individual may have none of these risk factors and go on to develop an addiction to alcohol or drugs. These risk factors don’t mean a person will become addicted, but, they are factors to be aware of especially if you or someone you love is using alcohol or drugs. 

When it comes to bullying, the development of an addiction is just one concern. As mentioned, youth who are bullied are more likely to be depressed and according to research are 2.2 times more likely to have suicidal ideations and 2.6 times more likely to attempt suicide than their nonbullied peers. 

How to Prevent Bullying and Help

One of the most important ways to stop bullying and help those involved in bullying is to open the conversation about it. That’s just one reason why National Bullying Prevention Month is so important. It’s vital to educate everyone involved with youth to know when someone is being bullied, what to do, and how to prevent bullying. 

According to PACER’s the following are ways to help with bullying:

• Actions that support the student being bullied were more helpful than those that were aimed at changing the behavior of the bully
• Students reported the following to be most helpful from teachers:
  • Checking in with them to see if bullying stopped
  • Listening to them
  • Giving them advice
• Students reported the following as the worst things teachers can do:
  • Tell the student to handle it themselves
  • Tell the student if they changed their attitude or behavior it wouldn’t happen
  • Ignore the bullying
  • Tell the student to stop tattling
• Bullied students report that the following behaviors are most helpful from peers:
  • Talking and supporting them
  • Helping them get away from the bully
  • Spending time with the student being bullied
  • Giving advice

It’s essential to support youth who are being bullied. However, it’s also important to help the youth who are doing the bullying to stop. Often, bullies are hurting deeply themselves and while their actions are not acceptable, they too are young and need healthy adult support in order to develop better coping skills of their own. 

Bullying is on the rise and communities need to come together in order to support those who have been and are being bullied. When bullying goes on, the impact can be devastating. From depression and suicide to developing addictions, the effects of bullying can be long-lasting and far-reaching. 

If you or a loved one are being bullied and have developed depression or anxiety, Futures Recovery Healthcare can help. We have a Mental Health Program aimed at supporting adults to manage their mental health disorders. In addition, Futures has three different substance use treatment programs; Core, Rise, and Orenda. Call us today at 866-804-2098 or visit us online to learn more about how we can help. 

What is Fentanyl? Facts You Need to Know

Fentanyl is a synthetic, highly addictive opioid. It is both a legal prescription drug and an illicit drug made in underground labs. Both prescription fentanyl and illicit fentanyl can be sold illegally. Prescription fentanyl is sold under the trade names Actiq®, Duragesic®, and Sublimaze®. Both legal and illicit fentanyl can be misused and lead to addiction. Medically, fentanyl is used to treat severe pain. 

This Schedule II drug is both highly addictive and very potent. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) defines a Schedule II drug as a drug that has a high potential for abuse with use leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. As mentioned, fentanyl is very potent which increases the dangers of overdose to the unknowing user. The DEA reports that one kilogram of fentanyl has the ability to kill 500,000 people. 

Today, most people don’t seek and use fentanyl alone. The most recent practice of drug dealers is to add this deadly and addictive synthetic opioid to other drugs. This practice is very dangerous and is leading to an increase in overdose deaths from numerous other substances. 

Fentanyl is commonly added to heroin, another opioid, which makes it more potent and deadly. However, fentanyl is now being added to other, non-opioid drugs. These can include any drug but most recently fentanyl has been found in the following:

• Heroin
• Cocaine
• Methamphetamines
• Marijuana
• MDMA

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), this dangerous practice is responsible for the upward trend in drug overdose deaths. In fact, in 2017 59% of all drug overdose deaths involved fentanyl. This is up by nearly 45% from 2010 in which 14.3% of all overdose deaths involved fentanyl. 

For many users of non-opioid drugs, they are more at risk than ever. Not only are they unsuspecting of an opioid being in the substance they are consuming, for most of them, they haven’t taken opioids before and they are more susceptible to its effects particularly overdose. It’s imperative that more people are made aware of this new, deadly practice in order to protect themselves and their loved ones. 

In addition, fentanyl being added to other opioids is also deadly. This common practice leads many users to overdose because they are unaware of just how much opioids they are putting into their bodies. Fentanyl is about 50 to 300 times more potent than morphine. Just a little bit can be too much. 

Fentanyl and Overdose Deaths 

Since fentanyl is added to so many drugs, overdose death rates are soaring. For this reason, it’s vital to spread awareness and help those living with opioid addiction to get help. Whether someone is knowingly addicted to an opioid or they are taking it with another drug such as cocaine, the results can be the same. Most every time someone starts using fentanyl (or another opioid) they will become dependent. 

Here are some facts associated with fentanyl, addiction, and overdose deaths according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics: 

• There were more than 42,000 overdose deaths involving fentanyl in 2020
• Overdose rates from fentanyl are increasing 2.5 times faster than overdose rates from heroin
• Fentanyl overdoses are 550% higher than other prescription opioid overdoses
• The DEA confiscated 59.75 million lethal doses of fentanyl between 2013 and 2015. 
• 6.5 million prescriptions for various types of prescription fentanyl were written in 2015

Taking fentanyl—and adding it to other substances— is a deadly practice. Anyone who is using illegal substances may be unknowingly taking fentanyl and become addicted. Since fentanyl is added to other drugs, it can sometimes be hard to detect if it is being used. When the individual taking the drugs is unaware it has been added, they too may be confused by symptoms they are experiencing. 

How Fentanyl Works in the Brain 

Fentanyl impacts the areas of the brain which control emotions and pain. They bind to opioid receptors in these areas changing how these important parts of the brain work. Fentanyl changes how the brain experiences reward, pain, and pleasure. With continued use, these parts of the brain become dependent on the drug to feel any type of pleasure. This results in addiction, leading the person to seek more and more of the drug to feel good. With prolonged use and dependence, the individual may have to use the drug just to feel ‘normal’. 

When a person needs a drug of any kind to feel ‘okay’ addiction has set in and the person will seek to use that drug at all costs. This is where compulsive drug-seeking behaviors are seen. For the person who is not using drugs, the behaviors may seem absurd, however, for that person who has become addicted, they are just trying to survive. Treatment programs that first safely help the individual stop using the drug are imperative. Detoxing from fentanyl and other opioids can be not only difficult but also life-threatening. For these reasons, it’s essential that this be done under medical supervision. 

Signs of Fentanyl Use 

As mentioned, fentanyl impacts the areas of the brain dealing with emotions and pleasure. When an individual uses fentanyl (whether knowingly or not) they experience symptoms much like with other opioids. These can include:

• Feelings of elations or happiness
• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Constipation
• Sedation
• Breathing slowing
• Unconsciousness

When it comes to fentanyl and other opioids, overdose can come quickly. One minute the person may seem to be okay but the next they may be in danger. It’s important to know the warning signs of fentanyl or opioid overdose as well as what to do. 

Signs and Symptoms of a Fentanyl Overdose

The following are signs of a fentanyl overdose as well as general opioid overdose signs:

• Inability to speak
• Unconsciousness
• Faint heartbeat
• Shallow or slow breathing
• Limp limbs
• Small pupils
• Vomiting
• Purple lips and fingernails
• Pale skin

Sadly, about 128 people die each day from an opioid overdose according to the NIDA. It’s essential to know the signs of an overdose. Once you know these signs, it’s important to know what to do. There are certain drugs that can reverse an overdose when administered in time. 

Naloxone is one type of opioid antagonist with the ability to reverse overdose from opioids. This drug can not only stop the effect of more opioids in the brain and body it also can reverse the effects of opioids. Naloxone comes in a nasal spray or injectable form. Many states allow people to obtain it without a prescription in order to help lessen overdose deaths from opioids. The United States Department of Health and Human Services provides detailed information on Naloxone and how to use it. 

The first thing to do if you suspect someone has overdosed on any type of substance including fentanyl or another opioid is to call 9-1-1. The Good Samaritan Law protects the person who calls from prosecution if they are also using drugs at that time. Most states now have Good Samaritan Laws. In these states, death from overdose is lower than in those states that don’t have them. 

Treatment for Fentanyl and Opioid Addiction 

Despite the hopelessness that comes with addiction, there are effective treatment programs enabling millions to stop using opioids and live in long-term recovery. For those in active addiction, it may seem like there is no way out, however, that’s not true. There are many who have recovered from the dire state of addiction to opioids, many of whom have gone on to live happy, productive, and fulfilling lives. 

As mentioned, the first step in recovery from fentanyl or opioid addiction is to safely detox from the substance. Once this vital step has been accomplished, the next step is to engage in treatment programs that help to retrain the brain on how it thinks about drugs, pleasure, as well as develop new, healthy habits and coping skills. 

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing have all been found to be helpful in treating opioid addiction. 

In addition to these behavioral therapies, medications are also used in the treatment of opioid and fentanyl addiction. Medications can help to ease the strong cravings and can also block the effects of the drug if it is used. Buprenorphine and methadone are used to help reduce both cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Another medication, naltrexone, works to block opioid receptors so that taking fentanyl doesn’t result in the same feelings of euphoria and elation. 

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction to fentanyl or another opioid there is hope and help. At Futures Recovery Healthcare our compassionate, expert staff is dedicated to helping each person who comes to us recover. Our philosophy includes using evidence-based treatment programs along with medications as needed to help individuals safely and fully recover from fentanyl and opioid addiction. 

Call us today at 866-804-2098 to learn more or contact us online. We are here to help you or your loved one find freedom from addiction. 

Drugs, Love, and Violence: Understanding the Connection

Domestic violence also referred to as domestic abuse or intimate partner violence (IPV), is defined by the National Center Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) as the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, or sexual assault and/or other abusive behaviors in a pattern of control and power by one intimate partner over the other. The exact behaviors occurring with IPV can vary greatly from one situation to the next, however, the overarching behaviors are ones of power and control over the partner. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States, about 20 people per minute are physically assaulted or abused by an intimate partner. This equals about 10 million women and men each year being abused by an intimate partner. And while both genders can be victims of domestic violence, women tend to experience higher rates of IPV than their male counterparts. 

However, it’s important to realize that domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of gender, race, socio-economic status, educational background, etc. Much has been done over the past few decades to raise awareness about domestic violence and combat it. Overall, the rates of domestic violence seem to be trending down, however, some current data reveals that COVID-19 has added to an increase in more violent domestic violence crimes. In addition, it has been theorized that due to quarantine, some victims are unable to now reach out for help and report IPV. 

Most recently, the case of Gabby Petito has showcased how quickly violence in relationships can escalate and end tragically. And while Gabby’s intimate partner has not been charged, police body cams and friends of Petito indicate IPV was present in the relationship. Often, with IPV the victims may blame themselves and not reach out for help. This is one reason why it’s vital to raise awareness about early signs of domestic violence and understand the associated facts about domestic violence. 

Domestic Violence Today: Know the Facts

The NCADV reports the following statistics related to IPV:

• 1 in 4 women experience severe IPV 
• 1 in 9 men experience severe IPV
• 1 in 3 women have experienced some type of physical violence by an intimate partner
• 1 in 4 men have experienced some type of physical violence by an intimate partner
• 1 in 7 women have been stalked by an intimate partner
• 1 in 18 men have been stalked by an intimate partner
• About 200,000 calls are placed to domestic violence hotlines in just one day
• IPV accounts for 15% of all violent crimes
• IPV is correlated to higher rates of depression and suicide

It’s important to raise awareness about the continued prevalence of domestic violence as well as provide resources for those in need. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and it aims to do just that. Beginning in 1987, this movement has raised awareness, supported those being abused and survivors, held abusers accountable, and promoted legislation to help promote these goals. The theme for 2021 is #weareresilient. While IPV can happen to anyone, there are certain situations and groups that are more at risk. Substance abuse is one area that has been linked to higher rates of domestic violence. 

Domestic Violence and Substance Abuse 

The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) reports the following when it comes to substance abuse and domestic violence: 

• 40-60% of IPV involves substance abuse
• Spousal abuse is an indicator of developing a substance abuse problem
• IPV increases by 11 times when a perpetrator has a heavy drug or drinking that day
• More than 20% of male perpetrators reported drinking alcohol or using drugs prior to their most recent and/or most violent domestic violence acts

It has also been found that women who are in abusive relationships or experiencing domestic violence are more likely to either use alcohol or drugs as well as be coerced into using them by their abusive partner. 

As illustrated, there is a direct relationship between domestic violence and alcohol and/or drug use. The good news is that when the perpetrator of domestic violence gets treatment for an alcohol or drug problem, it seems to help promote a decrease in IPV.

The opposite is also true. When a victim of domestic violence gets treatment for their own alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD), they too have a greater chance of leaving the situation where they are experiencing IPV. 

What Does Domestic Violence Look Like? 

There is a need for education about what domestic violence is and what it isn’t. According to Futures Without Violence, two out of three children are exposed to trauma and violence. It’s imperative that we become aware of signs of abuse and help those experiencing it to get help. Childhood trauma increases a person’s risk for developing a substance abuse issue including alcohol or drugs. In order to protect the victims of IPV and the children witnessing it, family members and loved ones must know what to look for when it comes to signs of domestic violence. 

Domestic violence usually starts off subtly with controlling and possessive behaviors and progresses to violence. Here are some signs to look for in the early stages of IPV:

• Insults and telling the victim they can’t do things right
• Becoming jealous when the victim spends time with family or friends
• Accusing the victim of cheating
• Controlling money 
• Controlling the victim; where they go, who they see, what they do
• Shaming or putting down the victim
• Discouraging the victim from spending time with family and friends
• Telling the victim how to dress or controlling how they look (makeup, hair, etc.)
• Stalking the victim or monitoring them
• Threatening and intimidating the victim
• Pressuring the victim to do things they don’t want to do including have sex with them or others or using drugs
• Stopping the victim from making their own decisions

As you can see, IPV doesn’t always start out as physical abuse. However, these types of control and power constitute emotional abuse and often move to physical abuse. Once physical abuse begins, without the proper intervention and help, it rarely changes. 

When alcohol or substance use disorders are involved, the need for professional intervention is even greater. However, it’s important to realize that when an individual—either the victim or perpetrator of the violence—gets treatment, life can get better. 

If you are experiencing domestic violence or know someone who is, you are not alone. There are thousands who have left relationships with IPV and gone on to lead healthy, happy lives. If you or someone you love is living with an alcohol or drug addiction that is making the situation worse, there is help and hope. No matter how bad things may seem now, they can get better. 

Finding the courage to reach out for help can be the most challenging step for both victims of domestic violence as well as for those with an alcohol or drug problem. When you are ready to learn more about how to get help or simply talk to someone who understands the Domestic Violence Hotline is a great place to turn. Here is their information: 

Domestic Violence Hotline

Online Contact or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

This group provides local resources and support, safety plans, and more. They provide support for both those experiencing the abuse themselves as well as for concerned family members and friends. They are available by phone, chat, or text 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

If you or a loved one are also struggling with an alcohol or substance use problem or a mental health issue, Futures Recovery Healthcare can help. We offer three different addiction treatment programs and a mental health program. Our team members are well-versed in helping those with trauma recover and many understand the relationship between domestic violence and substance abuse. 

Learn more about our programs online or call us at 866-804-2098

Mental Illness Awareness Week: Break the Stigma and Get the Help You Deserve

Every year, millions of Americans live with mental health disorders. In fact, according to the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), in the United States one in every five adults and one in six youth between 6 and 17 years old experience some type of mental illness each year. Despite these 43.8 million American adults who suffer annually, there still exists stigmas, misinformation, and barriers to receiving effective treatment. In efforts to break these stigmas, educate, and make getting treatment easier, there are national observances for mental illness. 

The week of October 3, is National Mental Illness Awareness Week and October 10 is World Mental Health Day. Both of these days, aim to break stigmas, educate, and raise awareness about mental illness and how to get treatment. World Mental Health Day began in 1992 as an initiative by the World Federation for Mental Health. Each year has a theme with 2021’s theme being “Mental Health in an Unequal World”.  This year’s theme focuses on the economic inequalities in the world and how that impacts mental health problems. 

Mental Health Disorders in the United States 

When it comes to mental health disorders in the U.S., some are more prevalent than others. NAMI reports the following when it comes to mental illness diagnosis:

• 18.1% or about 42 million American adults have an anxiety disorder
• 6.9% or about 16 million American adults have major depression
• 2.6% or 6.1 million have bipolar disorder
• 1.1% or 2.4 million have schizophrenia

In addition to these statistics, about 10.2 million American adults have co-occurring disorders. A co-occurring disorder or comorbidity is the coexistence of both a mental health disorder, like anxiety and a substance abuse disorder, like alcohol addiction. Co-occurring disorders can sometimes also refer to the presence of a mental health disorder and an intellectual disorder. 

It’s important—and part of the aim of these awareness days—for anyone with a mental health disorder or co-occurring disorder to realize you aren’t alone. Not only are there millions of others suffering from mental illness, but there are also millions who have found the right treatment program and have gotten their illness under control. One of the problems with mental health treatment is that not everyone has access to the right mental health treatment. In fact, the problem is so great it prompted the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day. 

The World Federation for Mental Health stated the following on their website in regards to this year’s theme, 

“This theme, chosen for 2021, will highlight that access to mental health services remains unequal, with between 75% to 95% of people with mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries unable to access mental health services at all, and access in high-income countries is not much better.”

Mental Illness and Getting Treatment 

One of the reasons for this ongoing and serious problem is that the amount invested in establishing and expanding mental health services is minimal. And research shows that this impacts not only access to mental health services but also the delivery of these services. Data indicates that it can take 15 years for an individual to finally receive the proper care for a mental illness. For many, that is simply too long. Suicide is currently the second leading cause of death in people between 10 and 34 years old. It’s imperative that access to high-quality mental health care be expanded and the stigmas surrounding mental illness are broken. 

NAMI reports the following when it comes to mental illness and treatment in America:

• 60% of adults with a mental health disorder didn’t receive treatment in the prior year
• 50% of youth didn’t with mental illness didn’t get treatment in the previous year
• Blacks and Hispanic Americans received mental health treatment at half the rate of whites
• Asian Americans received mental health treatment at one third the rate of whites 

It’s vital to spread awareness, start the conversation, and help those in need find the resources they need to get help. In addition to World Mental Health Day, Mental Illness Awareness Week also aims to do this. 

Mental Illness Awareness Week, as mentioned, is the week of October 3. During this week, NAMI and supporters in the mental health field, come together to help raise awareness, fight discrimination, and provide support for those in need. The 2021 theme is “Together for Mental Health”. NAMI’s website states, 

“We will focus on the importance of advocating for better care for people with serious mental illness (SMI). Each day throughout the week, we will be raising the voices of people with lived experience to talk about SMI and the need for improved crisis response and mental health care.”

A serious mental illness or SMI is defined as an emotional, mental, or behavioral disorder resulting in serious functional impairment which interferes with or seriously limits one or more life activities. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that it is rare to have an SMI and only about 5% of the U.S. adult population is impacted. SMIs include:

• Schizophrenia disorder
• Severe bipolar disorder
• Severe major depression

And while SMIs don’t impact as many people as other mental health disorders, the effects of these mental health disorders are usually severe. Many living with an SMI, don’t get the treatment they need. This can lead to more problems including:

• Decreased functioning
• Progression of the mental health disorder
• Development of other mental health disorders
• Development of substance use disorders

Co-occurring Disorders: What You Need to Know

Often, someone with an SMI or any type of mental health disorder will begin to self-medicate to ease the uncomfortable symptoms. This reliance on a substance can lead to dependence and eventually addiction. For example, someone with severe major depression may turn to alcohol in an attempt to feel better. However, while alcohol may initially relieve some symptoms, in the long run, it can exacerbate depression. Alcohol is a depressant and usually makes the individual consuming it experience some form of depression. For the person who is already depressed, this can further complicate the issues. 

In fact, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, someone with a mental health disorder is more likely to also have a substance use disorder than those individuals who don’t have a mental health disorder. This is also more common amongst those undergoing medication-assisted treatment (MAT). 

Mental health disorders commonly found in MAT patients: 

• Mood disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Major depressive disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Conduct disorders

SAMHSA also reports that individuals with mental health disorders commonly become dependent on the following substances: 

• Alcohol
• Marijuana
• Opioids
• Tobacco
• Prescription drugs
• Stimulants
• Hallucinogens

No matter what combination occurs or which occurs most frequently, one thing is certain, anyone who has a co-occurring disorder should seek treatment for both as soon as possible. Generally speaking, these co-occurring disorders can negatively impact each other. One making the other worse and vice versa. In addition, many mental health disorders including substance use disorder (SUD) is a progressive illness that only gets worse with time. 

Treatment for Mental Health Illness and Co-occurring Disorders 

Research indicates that getting treatment for co-occurring disorders at the same time is vital for recovery from both. Many times people want to know which came first out of their mental health issues. As mental health disorders are complex and often overlapping, this can be difficult to determine. However, with the right treatment program, individuals can not only learn more about their specific disorders, what caused them, how they got worse, and what increased their risks, they can also learn new coping skills. 

One of the first steps in getting the right treatment for mental health disorders is proper screening and evaluation. When it comes to co-occurring disorders, integrated treatment is highly recommended. Integrated treatment provides evidence-based treatment for both or all disorders. This means when a person is being treated for a substance use disorder, this treatment is also coordinated with the treatment of their mental health issue, for example, an anxiety disorder. 

Finding a treatment facility that is well-versed and successful in treating co-occurring disorders is essential. According to SAMHSA, individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders are more likely to be hospitalized than those with either a mental health disorder or substance use disorder. For this reason, as well as the fact that one can make the other worse, it’s essential to get treatment sooner than later. 

For many, the stigmas associated with mental health disorders can stop them from reaching out. However, evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT) have been proven time and time again to help individuals recover. 

Futures Recovery Healthcare is one of the leading addiction treatment centers for co-occurring disorders. Not only does Futures have professionals trained in treating those with co-occurring disorders, but Futures also has a mental health program designed for those with mental health disorders without an accompanying substance use disorder. 

Remember, there are millions of Americans and people across the globe living with mental health disorders—you are not alone! To learn more about how we treat mental health disorders, substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders contact us online or call 866-804-2098.

3 Types of Therapy Used in Substance Abuse Treatment

There are different types of therapy used in the treatment of individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD). The best therapies for substance abuse treatment are those that are evidence-based. This means that there is substantial research and evidence supporting that these types of treatments yield positive outcomes. From researchers to those working with patients, certain types of treatments have been found to work better than others when it comes to substance abuse treatment therapies. 

What is Psychotherapy? 

Often referred to as simply ‘therapy’ these are actually psychotherapies. The American Psychiatric Association defines psychotherapy as a talk therapy used to help individuals with a broad range of mental and emotional issues to eliminate or control associated symptoms so they can better function on a daily basis as well as increase overall well-being. 

Psychotherapy is often used to treat issues associated with the following: 

• Substance or alcohol use disorder
• Trauma
• Medical illness or loss
• Loss of a loved one
• Mental health disorders like anxiety and depression

Therapy can be provided by different types of service professionals. These include: 

• Psychiatrists
• Psychologists
• Licensed social workers
• Licensed professional counselors
• Licensed marriage and family therapists
• Psychiatric nurses
• Other specially trained in psychotherapy

In addition to a number of different types of providers, there are also different types of therapy sessions. Some of the most common types of therapy used with substance abuse treatment are as follows: 

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy 
• Family therapy
• Couples therapy

The specific type of therapy, who provides it, and the types of sessions involved depending on the individual and their unique needs. One of the first steps in determining this is undergoing a comprehensive evaluation. For those with an alcohol or substance use issue, there can also be co-occurring disorders such as anxiety or depression. In addition, many with substance abuse issues have trauma in their past. For these reasons and more, it is crucial to get a thorough evaluation by a professional when seeking treatment for either a drug or alcohol issue. 

Research indicates that when a person has co-occurring disorders, such as alcohol use disorder (AUD) and anxiety, it’s imperative to treat both mental health disorders at once. This helps the individual to address unresolved issues which may be fueling both issues. When it comes to co-occurring disorders, one often fuels or worsens the other and vice versa. 

Does Therapy for Substance Abuse Work? 

The American Psychological Association reports that about 75% of individuals who engage in therapy find benefits from it. Psychotherapy has been shown to have the following benefits: 

• Improve emotional states
• Improve behaviors
• Decrease associated symptoms
• Fewer medical problems
• Fewer sick days
• Increase satisfaction at work
• Increase overall life satisfaction 

In addition to these changes, therapy has shown changes in the brain. Several studies have revealed changes in the brains of individuals who have undergone therapy. Individuals with depression, panic disorder, PTSD, and more show brain changes similar to those in people who have taken medications to help with their mental health disorders. 

Psychotherapy or therapy works by first developing trust between the individual and therapist. Once trust has been established individuals are able to open up about past and present issues causing them distress. In some cases, the person may not be fully aware of what is causing the distress, in these cases the therapists help them to uncover this. In addition to this piece of therapy, an important part is the identification of thoughts, behaviors, and patterns that aren’t working and replacing these with healthier, more productive ones. 

When it comes to therapy for alcohol or drug use, there are certain types that have proven to be more successful than others. 

3 Types of Substance Abuse Treatment Therapies

While there are many different types of therapies available, years of research and hands-on work have shown a few to be more successful when it comes to treatment for substance abuse. These include treatment for alcohol use disorders, substance use disorders, and process substance abuses such as sex and love substance abuse or gambling. It’s important to understand that just as each person is not the same, the type of therapy used for one person may not be what’s best for the next. In addition, only engaging in one type of therapy may not be best for everyone. For example, an individual recovering from alcohol abuse may need to participate in individual, group, and family counseling. substance abuse treatment is not a one size fits all approach. Treatment programs should be built to best meet each person’s unique and often complex needs. 

Here are some of the most commonly used and most effective types of treatment for substance use disorders: 

1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy or CBT

This type of psychotherapy has been shown to lead to significant improvement in functioning and quality of daily life. According to the American Psychological Association, CBT is based on several core principles. These are: 

• Mental health disorders are partly based on faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking
• Mental health disorders are partly based on learned patterns that are unhelpful
• When individuals with these disorders learn new ways of thinking and coping, symptoms are relieved and they are more effective in their day to day lives

CBT works, in part, by changing thought patterns, there are several ways commonly used to do this. The first step is the realization of these distorted thought patterns. After this recognition, the therapist helps the individual to re-evaluate these thoughts and see if they are accurate. Next, individuals learn to gain a more comprehensive understanding of others’ behaviors and motives. 

In addition, part of the CBT program is to learn new coping skills and behaviors particularly in times of stress or when facing problems. This portion of therapy is often accomplished by encouraging individuals to face their fears, teaching them effective ways to calm their minds, and sometimes role-playing to prepare for potentially stressful situations or interactions. 

While CBT helps the individual to take a look at what may have caused their unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, this type of therapy mostly addresses what is currently occurring in the individual’s life, not so much on digging up the past as with other therapies. 

The goal of CBT is to not only change destructive thoughts and behaviors, learn new coping skills, but also to teach the individual to essentially become their own therapist. Through ongoing work with the counselor and homework to help reinforce changes, patients can learn to identify and change their own faulty thinking and associated behaviors throughout life. 

2. Dialectical-behavioral therapy or DBT

This type of evidence-based therapy was originally developed to treat women with borderline personality disorder. However, since that time it has been used to successfully treat a number of other types of mental health disorders including substance and alcohol use disorders. In addition, it is often used to treat individuals with suicidal ideations, self-harm behaviors, eating disorders, depression in the elderly, and mood disorders. 

This type of therapy involves recognizing triggers that lead to emotional reactions and learning what appropriate coping skills to use in each situation. In DBT, the aim is to help individuals employ emotional and cognitive regulation by knowing their triggers and learning, as well as using effective coping mechanisms. 

DBT is a modified type of CBT first developed by Marsha M. Linehan, a psychology researcher at the University of Washington.  It differs from CBT with its concept of distress tolerance, mindfulness practice, and acceptance of situations. DBT is based on the biosocial theory of mental health disorders. This theory believes that individuals are biologically predisposed to certain mental health issues and are stimulated by environmental factors. 

The four modules of DBT include: 

• Mindfulness
• Acceptance and change
• Distress tolerance
• Emotional regulation

The modules used can vary from one person to the next. In addition, one person may use all of the modules while another may only use two. DBT can be tailored to meet each person’s unique needs for psychotherapy. 

3. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing or EMDR

EMDR is a type of therapy developed by Francine Shapiro in 1988 that is used to help patients process traumatic events from the past. EMDR helps individuals to assess, process, and finally, bring them to a resolution. 

EMDR is led by a trained therapist. In the sessions, the therapist leads the individual in recalling a past traumatic event in small amounts while simultaneously focusing on an external stimulus. Therapist-led lateral eye movements, hand tapping, and audio stimulus are most commonly used to facilitate this process. 

With this type of therapy used for substance abuse treatment and trauma, new associations with the memory or memories are formed thus resulting in the elimination of the associated emotional distress and new thoughtful insights into the event. 

EMDR uses a three-prong approach which is as follows: 

1. New associative links are developed about the past event that may have caused dysfunction for the individual
2. Any current circumstances causing distress are addressed and any internal or external triggers are also addressed and desensitized
3. Plans for addressing future events that may be triggers are incorporated

Research indicates that individuals with past traumatic events can heal and relieve emotional distress from EMDR that takes years in traditional types of psychotherapy. In EMDR, it is illustrated that the mind, like the body, can heal itself from trauma when blocks are removed. EMDR removes these blocks and allows the mind to heal. 

There are other types of therapies used for substance abuse treatment as well. Many of these other therapies are used in conjunction with CBT, DBT, or EMDR. These include experiential therapy, adventure therapy, contingency management, motivational interviewing, and more. 

If you or a loved one are living with an alcohol or substance use disorder or struggling with a mental health issue, Futures Recovery Healthcare can help. At Futures, we utilize evidence-based therapies including CBT, DBT, and EMDR. Each of our three substance abuse treatment programs (Core, Orenda, Rise) offers these types of therapies and more. In addition, we have a mental health program solely devoted to those with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Each of these programs offers something a bit different from the next with the focus on helping each person who comes to us to get the comprehensive and individualized treatment they need. 

At Futures, we believe recovery is possible for everyone. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help. Visit us online or call 866-804-2098.

How to Practice Gratitude in Recovery (and why it matters)

Gratitude and being grateful are terms heard often in recovery. Developing an attitude of gratitude comes easily for some and for others takes some practice and habit-building. However, no matter how you come by it, practicing gratitude in your daily life can transform it from one of doom and gloom to one of peace and joy. This is particularly true for people in recovery from alcohol or drugs.

Gratitude is defined as the quality of being grateful; readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness. Basically, gratitude is seeing what is good in life and the goodness in others. The flip side is being resentful and seeing what’s wrong in life, not what’s right. And no matter which way we choose to look, there will be plenty to be found of both. 

Being grateful is important and a key to happiness for all. However, when it comes to anyone who is in recovery or working to get sober, gratitude is essential. Many people who are revered for their spiritual work and success have touted the importance of gratitude. Here are some quotes from them:

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.”
– Aesop

“Be thankful for what you have and you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”
– Oprah Winfrey

“Be present in all things and thankful for all things.”
– Maya Angelou

“The struggle ends where the gratitude begins.”
– Neale Donald Walsh

As one can see, there are many people who have used gratitude in their own lives and attest to how powerful and healing it can be. From Aesop to Oprah Winfrey, the power of gratitude has transformed lives and healed relationships.

 Why Gratitude Matters and How It Can Transform Recovery

Most everyone has heard the question, “Is the glass half empty or half full?” this simple question illustrates being grateful and not being grateful. When we walk through life and see everything that is wrong, everything that isn’t going our way, everything that we wish was different, we will continue to see more and more of the same.

According to the laws of the universe, like attracts like. This is true too with our thoughts. When we begin thinking negative thoughts or finding something wrong with a person or situation, these thoughts grow. Have you ever become annoyed or frustrated by a person or something they’ve done? We all have. But what happens for most is when we start to think those judgemental and negative thoughts we think of more things about the person or situation we don’t like. The thoughts can snowball until we’ve worked ourselves into a state of restlessness and discontent. 

For anyone who is in recovery, these thoughts can be detrimental. Many times people with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD) can quickly go down this path of negative thinking. And, for those in recovery, this can lead to the development of resentments. According to the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book, resentment is the number one offender and can kill those with AUD or SUD. 

“Resentment is the “number one’’ offender. It destroys more alcoholics than anything else. From it stem all forms of spiritual disease, for we have been not only mentally and physically ill, we have been spiritually sick. When the spiritual malady is overcome, we straighten out mentally and physically.”  (p.64, Alcoholics Anonymous)

One of the best ways to overcome this spiritual malady is to practice gratitude. And while it may not come easily at first, just like negative thinking is a habit for some, being grateful can become a habit too.

As mentioned, when a person begins to think negatively it often just grows and grows until they are upset, angry, bitter, and eventually resentful. The same is true of positive thinking or being grateful. When you begin to think good thoughts they too will grow and grow. Like attracts like. This is true for both negative thinking, positive thoughts, and gratitude. 

When we begin to stop seeing what’s wrong and begin to see and appreciate what’s right, our lives will be transformed. 

Gratitude is Good for Your Body, Mind, and Spirit

Did you ever wake up in the morning and something ‘bad’ happens? You stub your toe on the way out of bed or you spill your coffee all over your clean shirt? Everyone has had this happen or something similar. For a lot of people, this seemingly negative event sets off a train of thought and then everything seems to go wrong for the rest of the day. You’ll hear people say, “I shouldn’t have gotten out of bed this morning.” This reflects the negative thinking that just draws more and more to it. 

However, if you are able to take that negative event and laugh it off or just forget about it, the day often turns around and is a good one. Of course, we all have our ‘bad days’ and that’s okay too. The key is to not let the bad days take over or become too frequent. Many times people think, sure but I can’t control what goes on around me and what others do and say. And while this is completely true, what we can control is our thoughts. We can make them positive and grateful or negative and toxic. 

When you choose to think with a grateful mindset, you will improve your physical, mental, and spiritual health. All of which makes for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilled you. 

In fact, according to research, gratitude can have the following effects:

• Improves mental health

A research paper published in the Journal of Happiness Studies in 2020, it showed that being grateful regularly could diminish symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

• Boosts immune system

Research into the benefits of regular gratitude practices shows an increase in the body’s ability to fight illness including reducing the risk of heart failure. 

• Heals and improves relationships

We all know how good it feels to be appreciated. When we show gratitude towards others we are in relationships with, they too feel better and the relationship can heal and improve. Some studies have shown that when gratitude is expressed in romantic relationships feelings of happiness lasted through the following day. 

• Builds optimism

Being grateful and optimistic are similar yet different. When we are optimistic we see good outcomes in even the most trying situations. Practicing gratitude helps people become more optimistic. In studies, those individuals who were considered optimistic had better overall health and in some cases aged better too. 

How to Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude may seem easy to some but daunting to others. For many, our brains have been wired and become accustomed to thinking one way—often negative. This can be especially true for those in recovery. Those with addiction issues, sometimes have maladjusted ways of thinking which become habits. These thoughts, as mentioned, can tend to be negative, always seeing what is wrong and what we don’t want. 

Becoming grateful is a simple as building new ways of thinking. This can be accomplished through some simple practices. And just as with any other habit, with regular practice, grateful thoughts can become your everyday way of thinking. 

Here are some ways to begin practicing gratitude right now:

Gratitude journal

One way is to begin journaling about the things in your life that you are grateful for right now. Are you grateful to be in recovery from alcohol or drugs? Are you grateful to have a second chance? Are you grateful for your eyes? Your ears? Your health? While we can look at each one of these things and find an issue, the power is in finding the good in each. 

Sure, maybe you are new in recovery and keep telling yourself you’ve wasted years using and should’ve gotten sober sooner. Or, you can be grateful that you are sober now. Many people die each day from AUD and SUD. 

In addition to the big things, think of the little things too. 

Gratitude list

Making a list of ten things you are grateful for each morning is a great way to start off the day in a positive way. This list can include anything at all. From new shoes to just having shoes to wear, when we sit and take a look there really is so much to be grateful for each day.

Gratitude board

This concept is much like a vision board. Using a bulletin board or poster board put pictures, graphics, or words that help you remember what you’re grateful for in life. For example, putting a picture of your dog or children on the board will remind you each day that they are both things in life to be grateful for on a daily basis. 

Gratitude jar

This is a great and fun way to practice gratitude. Get a jar of any kind and when something good happens write it on a strip of paper and put it in the jar. Then each day (once you get some stockpiled) take one out and remember what you have to be happy about. 

Gratitude guided meditations

There are many guided meditations on different meditation apps or YouTube that are free. Look for ones on gratitude and listen to them regularly. This will not only help you calm your mind but also find things to be grateful for you may overlook.  

Prayer

No matter what your religious or spiritual beliefs, taking some time each day to say thank you to your Higher Power is a great way to cultivate more things to be grateful for in your life. Being thankful brings more to be thankful for into your life. This multiplies and before you know it your life is beyond your wildest dreams. 

Service 

Volunteering or being in service is one of the best ways to begin to get grateful. Not only does volunteering help us get out of our heads and inot the present moment. It can also show us those who are less fortunate. This helps us to see and appreciate the good things in our lives now. 

Showing Gratitude to Yourself

It’s important to understand that the relationship you have with yourself will often be reflected in your relationships with others. Many in recovery, particularly early recovery, feel guilty for past mistakes and beat themselves up. While acknowledging mistakes and making amends is vital for long-term recovery learning to love yourself is too.

Take time to look at yourself and your life and be grateful to yourself. If you are in recovery, you have accomplished so much just by being sober or trying to get sober. Thank yourself for showing up each day to try again, to grow, to face challenges, and to work on being the best version of yourself. Often, those in recovery, forget to show gratitude to themselves for all they have overcome and accomplished. 

Practicing gratitude is a great way to feel better and help those you love feel appreciated. If you are in recovery transforming the negative thoughts into positive ones can begin with gratitude. If you aren’t in recovery but struggling with an alcohol or drug use issue, reach out for help. Futures Recovery Healthcare treats individuals with alcohol use disorder, substance use disorders, and mental health disorders. We are here for you and ready to help. Learn more about our three addiction treatment programs or our mental health program online or call us at 866-804-2098.

3 Legal but Dangerous Drugs Teens Are Using

Teenagers and young adults are the future of our nation. Today’s teens and young adults face new and unprecedented challenges as well as stressors. Turning to both legal and illegal drugs to escape or blow off steam is becoming more common amongst teens and young adults. It’s important to know which drugs are most commonly used by teens, the warning signs of use, and how to get your teen or young adult help. 

Some of the most common drugs used by teens are actually legal. From spice to over-the-counter cold medications, teens commonly misuse substances that are legal. This can make it more difficult for parents and caregivers. Not only are these drugs easier to get, but unsuspecting parents may also miss warning signs of abuse. And as use amongst teens and young adults grows, it’s more important now than ever to know when a teen or young adult is abusing drugs and how to get them help. 

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, the number of eighth-graders who used drugs increased 61%% from 2016 to 2020. In addition, the same center reports that teen drug use is a national public health concern with one in nine teens abusing an illicit substance in the last year. One of the reasons it’s so vital to quickly recognize teen drug use and abuse is that the teenage brain is more detrimentally impacted by drug use. 

How Drugs Affect the Teenage Brain 

When anyone uses drugs it impacts how the brain works and how parts of the brain work together. The longer an individual—teen, young adult, or adult—uses a substance, the greater the risk of damage. Sometimes the damage caused by drug use is irreversible. Teens are particularly susceptible to certain detrimental effects from drug use because parts of their brains are still developing. 

There are three main areas of the brain that are impacted by using and abusing drugs including over-the-counter, prescription, and other legal medications. These areas are: 

1. The brain stem

This part of the brain is in charge of all of the functions that keep the body going like breathing, moving, and digesting food. It also lets the brain know what is happening to the body. 

2. The limbic system

This vital system helps to make connections in the brain that are in charge of emotions. This includes feelings of pleasure that come from engaging in certain activities. When the person experiences these pleasurable feelings they are motivated to repeat the behavior or activity so they can experience these feelings again. 

3. The cerebral cortex

This is the outer part or grey matter of the brain and makes up about three-quarters of the entire brain. The frontal cortex is the part of the brain that helps people to think, solve problems, and make decisions. 

When substances are put into the body these chemicals can alter how the brain sends, receives, and processes messages. Drugs work in the brain by either imitating the natural chemical messages or by overstimulating the brain’s reward circuit. Because a teenager’s brain is not fully developed, it can impact the brain in more serious ways. The teen’s brain can send stronger or louder messages resulting in them feeling more intense feelings of pleasure. 

Additionally, teens and young adults can feel negative emotions such as anxiety and depression more intensely making them more susceptible to seek ways, such as drugs, to relieve these uncomfortable feelings. This also means that when teens use drugs or alcohol their brains are more susceptible to wanting to repeat the activity and stimulate the reward circuit. 

It has also been found that teens can be more vulnerable to long-lasting and permanent damage in the brain from drugs. It’s vital to identify both substance and alcohol misuse in teens and get them the right treatment if there is a dependency or addiction that has developed. Today’s teen has access to more types of substances—both legal and illicit—making it even easier for them to become dependent. 

3 Legal Substances that Teens Are Misusing 

Research and data reveal that about 50% of all teens have misused a drug at least once. When it comes to teens and drug use, it’s important to understand that even misuse of a drug such as cold medicine can lead to dangerous side effects as well as addiction. Recognizing the drugs most commonly used by teens and their side effects is vital in helping this vulnerable population. 

Spice or K2

This dangerous but legal drug is a mix of herbs and man-made chemicals which cause psychotropic or mind-altering effects. Teens often refer to spice as fake weed because it looks similar to marijuana and also has similar side effects. However, unlike marijuana, chemicals often sprayed on the plant leaves in spice can be highly addictive and dangerous. Sellers of this drug try to say it is natural and harmless but in reality, this is a dangerous drug. 

Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs 

Over-the-counter drugs are those that are sold at drugstores or grocery stores. You don’t need a prescription to get these drugs but in some cases, you need to be over 18 years old. Teenagers most commonly misuse cough or cold medicines as well as diet medications. Some cough and cold medicines contain chemicals that can be mind-altering when misused. Two of the most common are cough and cold medications misused are: 

• Dextromethorphan (DXM) cough medications 
• Promethazine-codeine cough syrup

The practice of mixing Promethazine-codeine cough syrup with soda or alcohol produces a substance referred to as ‘lean’. Many times teens consume this to get ‘high’. This has become increasingly popular since the 1990s. 

Additionally, otc drugs used to lose weight can be used for their stimulant effects. Teens have easy access to these drugs available at drugstores. And while these are legally sold drugs, they can also have dangerous side effects, particularly when misused. 

Inhalants

Inhalants are commonly used products found in the household and the workplace. These products are inhaled by individuals in order to get ‘high’. Inhaling these substances is highly dangerous. Dangerous side effects including death can occur even with one use. Inhalants can be of several different types. These are: 

• Volatile solvents

These include paint thinner, gasoline, and art supplies such as markers and correction fluids. 

• Aerosols

These include hair spray, spray paint, and others. 

• Gases

These include butane lighters, whipped cream dispensers, and propane tanks. They also include medical products like chloroform and laughing gas. 

While addiction to inhalants isn’t common it can happen. Of even greater risk are the dangerous side effects that can occur after just one use. From sudden sniffing death to asphyxiation inhalants are dangerous and can lead to death. 

No matter which type of drug a teen is using, it’s important to understand that the brain can be impacted in very detrimental and sometimes lasting ways. When you know what signs of addiction a teen to look for, you’ll be better equipped to help. 

Signs of Addiction in Teens 

The signs of addiction in teens are similar to the signs of addiction in adults. When an individual becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol there are often changes in behaviors and habits. Here are some signs to look for: 

• Changes in school or work habits such as lower grades, missing school or work, or changes in friends at either place. 
• Ceased or decreased interest in activities such as sports or hobbies are another sign. 
• Changes in friend groups and social behaviors such as beginning to isolate or disappearing for long periods of time. 
• Mood swings
• Lying
• Lethargy
• Poor memory 
• Concentration problems
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Changes in eating habits
• Unexplained nausea and vomiting
• Unexplained weight changes
• Being sick frequently
• Poor hygiene
• Bloodshot eyes

The longer and more often these signs occur, the more likely the teen is to be using and possibly abusing drugs or alcohol. If you suspect a teen in your life is using drugs it’s imperative to get them help. Many of the same treatment approaches that work for others with substance or alcohol use disorders are also effective for teens. 

Treatment for Teens with Substance or Alcohol Use Disorders

There are several evidence-based therapies that are effective in treating both substance use and alcohol use disorders (SUD and AUD). These therapies are helpful for people of all ages and backgrounds who want to stop using drugs or alcohol. 

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT) are both leading types of psychotherapies used in addiction treatment. In addition to the types of psychotherapy used, there are also different types of sessions. Group therapy, individual therapy, and family therapy are all types of sessions often used in AUD and SUD treatment. 

When it comes to teens and treatment for addiction, family therapy can be very important. Oftentimes the teen must work through family dynamics and potential triggers in order to build a solid foundation in recovery. As mentioned, teens today have enormous stressors and can be more inclined than adults to try to find ways—including drugs and alcohol—to relieve that stress. It’s vital that teens have support systems outside of clinical treatment in order to help them find long-lasting recovery.

If you’re a teen (or someone who cares about a teen)  who thinks you may have an issue with one of these drugs discussed or any other substance, there is help and hope. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a treatment service locator which can help you find appropriate treatment facilities across the United States. In addition, Futures Recovery Healthcare can help you find the resources you need to get the right treatment. Learn more about Futures’ programming online or call 866-804-2098.

September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day is held each year on September 10 in an effort to promote awareness about suicide. This international day of awareness has been celebrated each year since its inception in 2003. The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) works in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) to host this important day aimed to spread awareness about suicide as well as take action to prevent suicides. 

According to the IASP, one of every 100 deaths across the globe is from suicide. Each suicide profoundly impacts those around them and is devastating to loved ones and communities. World Suicide Prevention Day aims to do the following:

• Reduce the stigma associated with suicide
• Raise awareness of suicide
• Promote action by proven methods to reduce both suicide and suicide attempts. 

This year, the IASP announced their theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2021-2023. This theme is “Creating hope through action.” The theme reminds everyone that there are alternatives to suicide and aims to promote confidence and the light in all of us. 

And hope is needed now more than ever. 

With more than 41,000 deaths from suicide annually in the United States, the need for awareness of warning signs and actionable steps to help prevent suicide are both vital to decrease these devastating and concerning numbers. 

Risk Factors for Suicide 

Just as each person is unique, each case of suicide or suicidal ideations is also unique and complex. The factors contributing to an individual’s suicide, suicide attempt, or suicidal thoughts are specific to them. However, there are certain contributing factors and life events that may make someone more vulnerable to suicide as well as mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Both of these mental health conditions increase the vulnerability of an individual for suicide. 

Additionally, many individuals who consider or commit suicide have other components in common. A person with suicidal thoughts or attempts may feel any of the following:

• Trapped
• Like a burden to family and friends
• Isolated
• Without other options

If you or a loved one are struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide there is help and there is hope. If you are in an immediate crisis contact your local emergency services or call the National Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255. This 24/7 hotline provides free, confidential support for people in distress as well as resources and support for loved ones. 

As mentioned, there are numerous factors that play into whether a person is higher risk for suicide than the next. One individual may have several of the risk factors but not be suicidal, anohter may have none but attempt suicide. There are no set ways to tell if someone will commit suicide but certain life events and situations can predispose them to it. Here are some of those according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Substance use disorder
• Prior suicide attempt
• Socially isolated
• Mental health issues particularly depression
• Serious illness
• Impulsiveness
• Aggressiveness
• Trouble in any of the following:
  • Legal
  • Financial 
  • Work or school

In addition to these individual factors, there are other factors such as how the individual grew up and the community resources they have. These can include:

• Experiencing childhood abuse and neglect
• Family history of suicide
• Bullying
• Domestic or sexual violence
• Divorce or experiencing the end of a relationship

The community in which an individual grows up and lives can also play a role in suicide. Some of the community factors can include:

• Inability to access health care including mental health care
• Cluster suicides in the community
• Cultural beliefs 
• Stigmas associated with mental health issues and suicide
• Easy access to means to committ suicide
• Romanticizing suicide in the media, movies, and books

Suicide is devastating and impacts the person’s loved ones, friends, family, and even the entire community. This effect on the community can be seen, in part, in suicide clusters. A suicide cluster is when there are a greater than expected or average number of suicides or suicide attempts during a close period of time. 

These cluster suicides mostly impact vulnerable teens and young adults. When this happens, one suicide can set off another, and so on. This problem has been seen more frequently in communities across the nation. 

It’s imperative for community members to know the warning signs, the risk factors, and where to go for help for themselves or someone else. This is why World Suicide Prevention Day and National Suicide Prevention Week (September 5-11, 2021) are so important. When communities come together to support those struggling and help prevent suicide, their neighborhoods, towns, and our entire nation is healed and strengthened. It’s up to each one of us to get involved and help those who need it the most. 

The flipside of risk factors is protective factors. These are factors that decrease a person’s risk of suicide. Research into these protective factors isn’t extensive yet, however, data shows that there are certain things communities and individuals can do to help decrease the risk factors and increase the protective factors. Some of these include increasing the following: 

• Coping skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Cultural beliefs discouraging suicide
• Religious leaders discouraging suicide
• Connections with family and friends
• Support in the community
• Availability of physical and mental health providers
• Limited access to lethal means for at-risk individuals 

When these are increased in communities, vulnerable groups have a better chance of seeing other options to suicide. 

It’s important to note that being isolated from family, friends, and social interaction can increase a person’s risk for suicide. As a result of COVID-19 and the mandates for quarantining as well as suggestions to limit exposure to others, mental health problems, including depression and suicide, have grown. 

And while all this may seem daunting, there is hope and help. Getting involved to help yourself, your loved one, and your community is crucial in order to reverse this dangerous growth in suicide across not only our great nation but the world. 

Substance Use Disorder and Suicide 

While the rise in suicide amongst younger age groups is gaining more awareness, it’s important to know about the groups that are most vulnerable to suicide. According to the National Institute on Health (NIH), substance use disorder was the most frequently found mental health disorder in suicides. In fact, estimates are that between 19% and 63% of all suicides had a substance use disorder. Alcohol use disorder was the most frequently found. 

In addition to those individuals with substance use issues, there are other groups who seem to be vulnerable to suicide. These include:

• American Indians and Alaska Natives
• People in prisons or criminal justice systems
• Youth in child welfare systems
• Individuals who engage in self-harm behaviors
• Members of the armed forces and veterans
• LGBTQ+ community
• Men in midlife
• Older men

Men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide and Americans between the ages of 45 and 54 years old are more likely than any other age group to die by suicide. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, depression, or an alcohol or substance use disorder Futures Recovery Healthcare wants to help. Futures treats adults with substance use issues, co-occurring disorders, and mental health issues. We offer three substance use disorder treatment programs as well as an inpatient unit solely dedicated to the treatment of certain mental health conditions. 

How to Help: Be Part of the Solution 

In alignment with the 2021-2023 theme for World Suicide Prevention Day, “Creating hope through action” there are certain things you can do to be part of the solution to the suicide problem facing our nation and world. Getting involved is a great way to spread awareness, break the stigma, and ultimately help to save lives

Here are some steps you can take suggested by the IASP: 

1. Reach in.

No matter how small, each act of caring and kindness can go a long way. From holding a door with a smile to asking a family member or friend how they are doing, we each can play a role in preventing suicide. Taking the time to ask someone how they are feeling and doing is the first step. When someone who is feeling depressed and suicidal feels like another person cares, they may be less likely to take their life. When you reach in, you don’t have to have all of the answers or right words to say. It’s taking the time to show you care that can go a long way. 

Listen without judgment, without trying to tell the person they shouldn’t feel that way. Holding space and creating that connection with someone who is struggling can help far more than most people realize. If you are concerned about how to approach the conversation, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline offers resources and suggestions for those individuals concerned about someone who may be suicidal. 

2. Encourage understanding.

Breaking the stigma associated with suicide, mental health, and substance abuse are key in creating compassionate communities in which individuals struggling feel comfortable reaching out for help. So many people struggling with suicidal thoughts have no one to turn to, no one to talk to about how they feel. Many times, this is because of the stigma surrounding these subjects—particularly suicide. Recognizing that suicide is a real part of life and encouraging others to show compassion and understanding about this tough subject is vital to changing the narrative. We all can do our part to create a more caring society in which all are supported.

3. Share experiences. 

Hearing from others about how times, when they have felt the same way, is a cornerstone of healing and hope. When others share their stories of suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts it helps those struggling know they aren’t alone and also see that there are other options and life can—and does—get better. This is the foundation of many support groups including 12-Step groups which have stood the test of time and helped thousands navigate tough times and come out on top. 

As the theme so poignantly states, ‘creating hope’ is vital. Hope can inspire and change lives. One changed life, one saved life can save another, and so on. If you want to learn more about International Suicide Prevention Day or get involved visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention or visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for ways to help locally. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts or have attempted suicide but still are struggling, there is help and there is hope. Futures is here for you offering compassionate, evidence-based care for mental health disorders. Contact us today online or call 866-804-2098.

Celebrating National Recovery Month

Recovery from alcohol and drug addiction is possible. Today, there are about 23 million Americans in long-term recovery according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). September is the month set aside to both celebrate those in recovery as well as raise awareness about recovery and addiction. 

Now in its 32nd year, National Recovery Month aims to inform all Americans that substance use and mental health treatment work and help millions recover and go on to live healthy, vibrant, and fulfilling lives. In addition, this observance helps to solidify the message that good behavioral and mental health is crucial to overall health, prevention works, treatment works, and people can and do recover. 

Celebrating Millions in Long-term Recovery: Recovery Can and Does Happen

Many times people are focused on the problem of alcohol and substance use disorders and forget that millions of Americans are living in recovery from both each day. In fact, the United States government doesn’t closely track those individuals in recovery but focuses on the number of individuals with an active addiction. National Recovery Month spreads not only awareness but also hope through the stories of those in recovery. 

National Recovery Month was started by SAMHSA in 1989 and was called Treatment Works! Month as a way to pay tribute to those who work in the addiction industry. Then in 1998, it was renamed National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month. This change was made to honor not only those who work in the addiction field but also those living in recovery and the work they do to stay in recovery. 

In June 2020, SAMHSA announced that it would no longer sponsor National Recovery Month. Faces and Voices of Recovery then created a new Recovery Month website to host all events and assets that make this important month possible. 

The theme for 2021 National Recovery Month is “Recovery is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community.” This theme is to help remind all those in recovery or active addiction that they are not alone. Recovery is possible and we are all on the road of recovery together. 

This is true not just for individuals in recovery but also for their families and their communities. Alcohol and drug addiction impact far more than just the individual with the disorder, it also has detrimental and often lasting effects on family and loved ones. In addition, some communities have been ravaged by drug and alcohol addiction. These communities also need to know they are not alone and recovery can and does happen every day. 

In addition to addiction to alcohol or drugs, National Recovery Month also aims to raise awareness about those in recovery from co-occurring mental health disorders. According to SAMHSA, about 7.7 million Americans have both a substance or alcohol use disorder and another mental health disorder such as anxiety or depression. It’s vital to raise awareness as one often masks the other and effective treatment for both is essential for long-term recovery. 

Understanding the Recovery Process

While taking the first step and reaching out for help for a drug or alcohol problem is often the hardest and most vital step, long-term recovery takes work and dedication. Just as each person is different and their story is different, so too is their journey of recovery. However, as this national month aims to convey, while the journey may differ, no one in recovery is alone. 

As with life itself, there are ups and downs along the road which is true of recovery too. We all experience good times and bad ones, but with the support, love, and understanding of loved ones, family, and the community we make it through and often are better for it. 

Recovery, particularly long-term recovery, doesn’t happen quickly, nor does attending a treatment center make it last. Long-term recovery and the good things that come with it happen over time and with work. According to addiction professionals, there are several pillars of recovery. These must be achieved in order to maintain long-lasting sobriety from substances or other mental health disorders. 

Different groups believe there are different parts to recovery. In Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) there are three pillars of recovery:

1. Unity
2. Recovery
3. Service

In this AA model, unity is the support and community received from attending and participating in AA meetings. Recovery means continuing to abstain from substances and heal the mind by working the 12 steps of the program, and Service is helping and giving to others which nurtures the spirit. 

This model of recovery can be seen on the coins or chips given out at many AA meetings. These coins are used to celebrate both monthly and yearly sobriety. This is represented by a triangle with each pillar being like a leg of a stool. Each of the three legs is essential for long-term recovery just as each of the three legs of a stool is needed for it to stand. 

SAMHSA also has a model of recovery with four pillars or dimensions. These four dimensions are as follows:

1. Health

This includes managing one’s disorder and making choices that support healthy physical and emotional wellbeing. 

2. Home

SAMHSA states that this is having a safe and stable place to live. 

3. Purpose

Engaging in meaningful daily activities and having the income and resources to participate in the community. 

4. Community

This means having friends, relationships, and social groups that support love, hope, and friendship. 

As you can see, both AA and SAMHSA pillars of recovery are much the same. From the basics of being free from substances and having a safe place to live to being a part of the community and contributing are paramount to long-term recovery. 

Beginning with evidence-based treatment at a reputable addiction treatment center is the first step to meeting all of these dimensions of recovery. For anyone who is living in active addiction now (or if you have a loved one in active addiction), these all may seem impossible, out of reach, but as the 23 million Americans in long-term recovery can attest, no matter how far down you are now, recovery can and will happen if you do the work. 

Thoughts from People in Long-term Recovery

Alcohol and substance use disorders can be devastating; families are broken, jobs lost, health is sometimes severely compromised, debts can be substantial, and there can be legal issues. It may seem like there’s no point in even trying, but take it from those in recovery—recovery does happen and it can for you too. 

Here are some thoughts about recovery from those who understand it the best, people with at least one year in recovery: 

“When I first went to an AA meeting I was broken. I didn’t think I deserved recovery let alone a great life. But I kept coming back and did the work. It wasn’t easy and I wanted to quit along the way. I’m so happy I didn’t quit then and I pray to stay sober today. The road isn’t always easy but today my life is beyond what I imagined possible and I have peace of mind most days. The work is well worth the payoff.”   –Beth D. – 5 years in recovery

“Admitting I was an alcoholic was the 1st step and that my life was seriously affected by drinking and drugs. Regular attendance at AA meetings, active sponsorship, working the 12-Steps and a relationship with my Higher Power became a way of life. Thie gave me a shift in my thinking to have faith, trust, and also be responsible and accountable. All of these things have helped me to recover from my hopeless state of mind and body.”   –Jill C. – 20 years in recovery 

“After 34 years of drinking and using drugs, I went into treatment to try to get my family off my back. I didn’t want to stop using drugs or drinking and I didn’t think treatment or AA would work. It did work and I just celebrated 11 years of being sober. I show up and I do the work every day. I try to help others as much as I’m able. All of the things I always wanted but never thought possible are mine today. I have good relationships with my kids and family. I earn a good income and can support myself and family. And most of all I have freedom from the drugs that consumed my life. Getting into treatment was the best thing I ever did.”   –Larry G. – 11 years in recovery

“The hardest part for me was the initial admission to myself that I was in fact an addict and powerless over alcohol even though there was overwhelming evidence. The thought of recovery was much more difficult than the actual work. Recovery definitely requires work but for me, the benefits outweigh the ‘work’ so much that it has become more of a lifestyle than a chore as it first was. The work is definitely worth the life I have today.”   –Ian N. – 14 months in recovery

As you can see, and as National Recovery Month aims to show, recovery can happen for anyone who wants it. As the 2021 theme states “Recovery is for Everyone: Every Person, Every Family, Every Community.” It can be for you too. 

If you think that you may have an issue with alcohol use or a substance either illicit, prescription, or legal, it’s vital to know the signs. The sooner an individual with an AUD or SUD gets help the better. But, it’s also never too late. 

Signs of Addiction

When it comes to any type of addiction, to alcohol, substances, or behavioral addictions, there are certain signs to know. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-V) lists 11 criteria or questions to ask when trying to determine if you or a loved one have an AUD or SUD. Currently, the DSM-V only recognizes gambling as a behavioral or process addiction, however, much of the criteria are the same for other process addictions such as love and sex addiction, video gaming addiction, and more. 

According to the DSM-V, here are the 11 criteria for determining an AUD or SUD:

1. Drinking or using the substance longer than planned or in greater amounts
2. Attempting to or wanting to cut down or stop but being unable
3. Spending significant time using the substance, drinking, or recovering from the effects of using or drinking
4. Experiencing cravings or hard to control urges to drink or use the substance
5. Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, school, etc. because of drinking or substance abuse
6. Continuing use despite problems in relationships with friends and family
7. Giving up hobbies, social engagements, fun activities to drink or use
8. Being in dangerous and risky situations as a result of drinking or drug use
9. Suffering physical health or mental health consequences from using or drinking but continuing to do so
10. Developing a tolerance and needing more of the drink or drug to get the same effect
11. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms that are relieved if alcohol or the substance is consumed

There are three subcategories under this classification; mild, moderate, and severe.

The more of these that an individual has experienced, the more severe the AUD or SUD. Experiencing two or three is a mild diagnosis, four to five is a moderate one, and more than five is a severe diagnosis. 

No matter if someone is mild, moderate, or severe, evidence-based treatment works. You or your loved one can recover from an AUD, SUD, or behavioral disorder. In honor of National Recovery Month, Futures Recovery Healthcare celebrates our exceptional team of addiction specialists and the brave people living in recovery every day. 

If you or a loved one is ready to get help for addiction or learn more, Futures is here for you. Contact us online to learn more about how we can help or call 866-804-2098.

Unresolved Grief and Addiction: Break Free from the Pain

Sadness, loss, pain, and grief—they are parts of life. Everyone experiences these at some point in their lives to one degree or another. Grief can occur for various reasons and people experience grief differently from one another. For some, moving through the stages of grief simply doesn’t happen and they get stuck in unresolved or unhealed grief. When this happens, mental health disorders, including addictions, can be exacerbated. However, no one has to remain in this place of sadness. Therapy for grief and loss can be very effective.

When it comes to grief, most of us think of the death of a loved one, family member, or friend. And while this is often the cause of deep grief, grief can also come from other losses in a person’s life. Here are some causes of grief:

• Death of a loved one
• Loss of a job
• Divorce or separation
• Divorce of one’s parents
• Loss of a pet
• Loss of a friendship
• Loss of a relationship
• Experience of physical or emotional trauma or abuse
• Moving to a new place
• Watching someone you love suffer
• National or global tragedies

When someone is grieving, they feel the loss of the familiar acutely. Grief is when one of your parents has passed on and you reach for the phone to call them then realize they’re gone. Grief can be when you move to a new city and have left behind all that is familiar; family, friends, your favorite coffee shops, favorite restaurants, job, and more. Grief can also be experienced when you’ve been friends with someone and close to them for some time and the friendship ends. Grief is the loss of what is loved, familiar, and oftentimes safe. 

Generally, people experience grief and move through the stages of grief. Some may take longer than others but most people make progress and are eventually able to move on and get back to a more normal life. But this isn’t always the case. For some, they are unable to move through these stages of grief and remain stuck in grief. In general, there are considered to be five or seven stages of grief. Here are the five stages of grief as described by Swiss-American psychologist Elizabeth Kübler-Ross in her book On Death and Dying: 

1. Denial
2. Anger
3. Bargaining
4. Depression 
5. Acceptance

There are also grief models with seven stages of grief which include the following:

1. Shock and denial
2. Pain and guilt
3. Anger and bargaining
4. Depression
5. Upward turn
6. Reconstruction and working through
7. Acceptance and hope

When an individual gets stuck in one of these stages or doesn’t progress past the first, unresolved grief can set in and life can become bleak and hopeless. 

Here are some signs that an individual is experiencing grief: 

• Increase or onset of roller coaster of emotions
• Change in eating habits and appetite; eating too much or not being able to eat much
• Decrease in the ability to concentrate or focus
• Increase in feelings of numbness
• Increase in or onset of sleep issues such as insomnia

While many of the symptoms of grief may look like depression it’s important to realize that while depression can be part of grief they aren’t the same thing. Grief is grief. During the normal grieving process, most people go through deep sadness and eventually get to the final stage of grief, acceptance. 

As time goes on the deep feelings of emptiness and loss lift and life starts to feel okay again. However, those living with unresolved or complex grief do not experience this. Rather they remain in the painful stages of grief and without the right help, this can last for years. To escape this pain, some may reach for alcohol or drugs and others may begin to increase their consumption of either or both. 

What is Unresolved Grief? 

Unresolved grief is also called complex grief. It is different from regular grief in several ways. One way is that it lasts much longer than normal grief. In addition, it is also more severe and intense. Often, in the normal grieving process, these intense emotions decrease over time, with complex or unresolved grief these intensely painful feelings can do just the opposite and increase over time. As others are healing, the person with complex grief is spiraling further down—often unnoticed by others. Another difference is that when it comes to unresolved grief, daily life and functioning can be hindered. 

This is often when addictions are exacerbated or begin. For some, unresolved grief takes their unhealthy relationship with alcohol or drugs to a whole new and much more dangerous level. 

Why does one person get stuck in unresolved guilt but not the next? While there are some factors that have been shown to be connected to unresolved grief, there are no definites. Here are some of the reasons a person may experience complex or unresolved grief:

• Feel guilty about the loss
• Have unresolved feelings about the person or situation lost
• Suffer from low self-esteem
• Experiencing an unexpected or sudden death of a loved one
• Experiencing a violent death of a loved one 
• Living with a lot of stress
• Lacking healthy social supports
• Being the caregiver of the person who passed away

As mentioned, there are no hard and fast rules determining who will and who will not experience unresolved grief. However, these are some factors that can make it more likely to happen. 

Signs of Unresolved Grief

Initially, it can be difficult to determine if an individual is progressing through the stages of grief or if they are beginning to get stuck in unresolved grief. Here are some signs that are commonly associated with unresolved grief: 

• Having anger issues and irritability
• Missing and ongoing obsession with the person or situation gone
• Experiencing extreme fear of loss or hyperalertness about possible losses
• Changes in behaviors in personal relationships
• Engaging in addictive, harmful behaviors
• Experiencing apathy or low-level depression
• Living with intense sadness that doesn’t improve
• Avoiding being close with others
• Avoiding anything that reminds them of the person or loss
• Refusing to speak about the person or loss
• Isolating from others
• Feeling guilty or blaming oneself
• Thinking of suicide

Children and teenagers may exhibit these behaviors however unresolved grief in these younger groups can manifest in other ways to be looked for too. Some of these are:

• Engaging in delinquent or risky behaviors
• Being angry or hostile towards anyone connected to the person deceased or the death
• Detaching from friends, work, school, etc.
• Fearing being alone particularly at night
• Lacking trust in others

Grief, particularly unresolved grief can look different from one person to the next. Being aware of some of these signs may help to avoid overlooking some important red flags. 

Sometimes a person may begin counseling for anger issues or go to anger management classes only to find they actually have unresolved grief which is fueling the anger. Other times an individual may go to rehab for an alcohol problem only to discover they have been burying unresolved grief under the booze. However, what all of these situations have in common is that grief counseling does work and anyone with complex or unresolved grief can heal and move on. 

While research on unresolved or complex grief is in its infancy, data shows that about 10-20% of people who experience a loss will also experience complex grief or persistent complex bereavement disorder as named in the DSM-V. But no matter the cause, healing is possible. This is true even when other disorders such as an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD) has taken hold or become substantially worse. 

Complex Grief and Addiction 

When it comes to complex grief and addiction many people are unaware that both exist. They may think that alcohol is their issue or they may think that they are still just sad over the significant loss they experienced and they need just a little more of their drug of choice to get through. They may tell themselves they’ll cut down or stop soon. 

But as so many in addiction know firsthand, cutting down or stopping, once an addiction has begun, is nearly impossible to do. At least on your own. 

If you are living with complex or unresolved grief and also think you may have developed a dependency on alcohol or drugs, there is help and there is hope. And—you are not alone. Millions of people have complex grief and addiction. Many of these individuals have been able to heal from both. You can too. It doesn’t matter which came first, the addiction or the complex grief. The key is to get the right treatment for both at the same time. Finding an addiction treatment center that treats co-occurring disorders is vital. Research shows that when a person with co-occurring disorders gets help for both at the same time their chances of long-term recovery increase. 

Life and grief can be very painful. But the grief doesn’t have to last forever. If you or a loved one are experiencing an extended period of grief, you may have complex or unresolved grief. If you are using alcohol or another substance to help you cope, you may be developing or have developed an addiction. No matter what your circumstances, the right treatment program can help. 

Futures Recovery Healthcare specializes in treating adults with co-occurring mental health and substance or alcohol use disorders. Reach out to learn more about how Futures can help you heal from addiction and grief. Contact us today! 866-804-2098