Understanding the Holistic Approach to Addiction Treatment

Understanding the Holistic Approach to Addiction Treatment

A holistic approach to drug addiction treatment has become increasingly popular in the world of recovery as more and more therapies are incorporating it into their programs.

But what is a holistic approach to drug addiction treatment? And does it actually work?

What’s a Holistic Approach to Addiction Treatment?

The holistic approach to addiction treatment aims to address the addict’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.

Instead of simply treating the symptoms of addiction, holistic treatments aim to address the underlying causes.

In its simplest form, the therapy combines Eastern and Western medicinal approaches in the hope that balancing all aspects of our health can help addicts avoid relapsing into addiction.

 

A holistic treatment aims to improve the individual’s overall well-being rather than target a specific symptom.

Almost all addiction treatment centers today offer holistic therapies as part of their recovery programs.

Examples of Holistic Approaches to Addiction Treatment

Addicts can choose from a variety of holistic treatments.  The following are some examples of holistic addiction recovery treatments:

 

  • Biofeedback and Neurofeedback
  • Art, Music, or Writing Therapy
  • Yoga
  • Nutritional Therapy
  • Exercise
  • Herbal and Plant Medicines
  • Acupuncture
  • Reiki
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Aromatherapy
  • Sound Therapy
  • Shamanic Healing
  • Energy Healing
  • Breathwork
  • Hypnotherapy
  • Kirtan
  • Tai Chi
  • Meditation and Mindfulness
  • Massage Therapy
  • Experiential Therapy
  • Nature Therapy
  • Equine Therapy and other Animal Therapies

Advantages of a Holistic Drug Addiction Rehab

The underlying motivation for addiction remains largely unclear, despite scientific findings indicating various factors such as trauma and peer pressure. 

 

Regardless of the origin, adopting a comprehensive approach empowers individuals struggling with addiction to better address their overall well-being. This, in turn, cultivates strength, confidence, and other beneficial attributes that aid them in overcoming the challenges of recovery.

 

As an example, an addict may use breathwork to reduce stress. Stress is well documented as an influence on relapse. Addicts can stay sober by avoiding it through a holistic approach.

 

Mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and hypnosis can also help the addict manage stress, during and after rehab. 

 

There have been cases where hypnosis and neuro-linguistic programming have helped addicts manage their cravings.

 

There is also a spiritual perspective to consider. Spiritual 12-step groups are evidence of this. It is possible to survive addiction by utilizing holistic spiritual approaches and finding strength from a higher power.

 

Addicts who are undergoing rehabilitation can also benefit from holistic therapies.

 

Acupuncture, for instance, can help addicts cope with anxiety and withdrawal symptoms during detox. The program can also improve sleep habits.

 

Exercise and nutrition have also proven to be effective ways to manage addiction. Regular exercise may reduce anxiety and stress levels. Taking care of your nutrition is also essential for a healthy recovery.

Who Can Benefit Most From a Holistic Approach to Drug Addiction Treatment?

A holistic approach to drug addiction treatment is ideal for those dealing with both addiction and mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma. 

 

By integrating various therapy modalities holistic treatments are able to support both addiction recovery and mental wellness, making it an excellent treatment for addicts suffering from a co-occurring disorder.

 

For those looking for long-term recovery, a holistic approach to drug addiction treatment is a game-changer. It equips recovering addicts with the tools and strategies they need to maintain their sobriety in the long run, not focusing only on their rehab stay.

Is a Holistic Approach to Drug Addiction Treatment The Real Deal?

While scientific evidence may not conclusively prove the superior effectiveness of a holistic approach, the world of holistic therapy offers a number of ways to enhance overall well-being. 

 

These therapies are widely embraced for their potential to contribute to recovery. They also empower individuals to maintain their journey toward recovery by cultivating a nourishing, stress-free lifestyle.

Getting Help

Are holistic treatments right for you? If so, you might want to check out our recovery services at Elysium Healthcare. We pride ourselves in providing bespoke recovery treatments that treat the root cause of the problem, not the symptoms.

Contact Elysium today and find out how we can help you recover.

Overcoming Stigma: Seeking Help for Addiction Treatment

Addiction Stigma

Attitudes and perceptions about mental health have changed significantly. Researchers have found that stigma associated with mental health treatment has decreased over the past two decades, while support for seeking treatment has increased. 

 

However, when it comes to addiction, there’s still a lingering stigma that holds people back from seeking the help they need for recovery. 

What Is a Stigma

A stigma is a negative perception or judgment society unfairly attaches to certain characteristics, conditions, or groups. 

 

It involves adding negative labels in accordance with social norms, stereotypes, or prejudices, which leads to discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion. 

 

Addicts who experience the stigma of addiction are less likely to seek help or support, which affects their well-being and quality of life. 

Different Types of Addiction Stigma

When we discuss stigma in substance abuse, we are really referring to several types including some major ones like:

Self-stigma

The term self-stigma, sometimes referred to as internalized stigma or self-shame, describes the negative perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs that addicts with a particular identity or condition develop about themselves.

 

A person’s self-stigma can make it difficult for them to seek help and engage in recovery efforts. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and reluctance to seek help.

Social Stigma

A social stigma is a negative attitude, belief, or stereotype held by society towards addicts or groups who possess certain characteristics, conditions, or identities. 

 

Often, it leads to discrimination and exclusion from social opportunities because of the public’s disapproval or judgment.

Family Stigma

A person with a particular condition, such as drug addiction, may suffer from family stigma when their relatives are subjected to negative attitudes and prejudices. 

 

Those affected may feel shame, guilt, and isolation within their families, which can further hinder their recovery process by preventing them from seeking help and support.

Drug addiction and Stigma 

It affects those struggling with drug addiction who face negative attitudes, stereotypes, and discrimination due to drug addiction stigma. 

How Does the Stigma of Drug Addiction Affect Recovery?

The damaging stigma surrounding substance abuse takes a heavy toll on those battling addiction. 

 

Discrimination and the reluctance of others can often drive addicts into isolation, preventing them from seeking the help they desperately need. 

 

The fear of the stigma of addiction increases when an addict is part of the workforce. They might feel as if their employers will label them as troublemakers or as someone not fit to work in their organization.

 

Stigma and society’s judgment can push high-functioning addicts further down the addiction rabbit hole. This often keeps them from reaching out for professional help.

Beating Stigma as an Addict

Getting past the stigma of addiction is crucial for a successful recovery journey, which is already challenging. Let’s explore some proactive steps to combat the stigma of addiction and pave the way toward healing:

Embrace Acceptance

Acknowledging and accepting that one has a drug problem is a vital first step. 

 

By doing so, addicts can mentally prepare themselves for treatment and become open to the support and resources available to them. 

Join Support Groups

Forge connections with others facing similar challenges in a support group environment. Experience the power of camaraderie and banish the feelings of isolation. 

 

Engage with addicts in recovery who truly understand your struggles, while being surrounded by supportive families, stable careers, and friends. 

 

Restore confidence, ignite motivation, and persevere through treatment and counseling. 

Seek Education

Empower yourself with knowledge about the root causes of substance use and the available treatment options, like counseling and addiction therapies. 

 

Understanding withdrawal symptoms and learning effective coping mechanisms for recovery equips you with the tools to navigate triggers successfully. 

 

Many rehabilitation centers organize drug awareness programs, which can be immensely helpful in preventing relapse.

Raise Your Voice

By sharing personal experiences and challenges related to addiction, you can contribute to creating awareness and breaking down societal stigmas. Sharing stories of struggle and recovery helps to destigmatize addiction and foster understanding among the general public.

 

By taking these proactive steps, you can combat the stigma surrounding addiction, empowering yourself to overcome obstacles and thrive in your recovery journey. You’ve got this!

Demystifying Addiction Stigma

If you or one of your loved ones is struggling with addiction stigma, then it’s time to get professional help. 

 

Elysium Healthcare is a top-rated luxury provider of drug and alcohol rehab that offers inpatient and outpatient programs. No matter which treatment option is best for you, we can help.

 

Contact Elysium today and speak to one of our admission professionals to find out if inpatient rehab is right for you.

The Role of Therapy in Addiction Treatment: Types and Benefits

The Role of Therapy in Addiction Treatment

Once an addict checks into rehab, a psychiatrist and a team of recovery experts will generally assess the condition of the addict and evaluate the most appropriate course of action to follow.

 

Part of the treatment program will include a variety of types of therapy for addiction, such as:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely popular form of psychotherapy in rehab. Extensive scientific research has demonstrated its remarkable effectiveness in addressing addiction, anxiety, and depression.

 

CBT is rooted in the belief that our thoughts, emotions, and actions work in harmony to shape our overall well-being. 

 

To unlearn negative behaviors, CBT therapists use a variety of methods, such as breathing exercises.

Benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

  • Helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to substance abuse.
  • Teaches coping skills to manage cravings and triggers effectively.
  • Focuses on addressing underlying issues that contribute to substance abuse.
  • Encourages active participation and self-reflection to promote long-term recovery.

Group Therapy

Group therapy entails the comprehensive examination of the root causes of a patient’s addiction within a secure and nurturing setting. Participants can anticipate the support of fellow individuals grappling with addiction, with sessions generally facilitated by one or two group therapists.

This mode of therapy proves effective as it empowers addicts to openly engage in discussions about their struggles and experiences, fostering an environment of mutual learning and growth.

A typical session usually includes six to twelve recovering addicts.

 

Benefits of Group Therapy:

  • Provides a supportive and non-judgmental environment for individuals with similar struggles.
  • Offers a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation.
  • Facilitates peer support and accountability.
  • Allows for the exchange of experiences, insights, and coping strategies.

Family Therapy

In family therapy, triggers, traumas, and challenges are overcome by families together. The philosophy behind this therapy is that addiction affects every member of the family.

By attending family therapy, the entire family can heal together.

It has been shown that addicts who receive this type of therapy remain sober longer than those who do not.

Benefits of Family Therapy:

  • Involves the whole family in the recovery process, promoting understanding and empathy.
  • Addresses family dynamics and communication patterns that contribute to substance abuse.
  • Strengthens family bonds and improves relationships.
  • Helps family members learn how to support their loved one’s recovery effectively.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

This particular treatment is actually one of the most common types of therapy for addiction, mainly because it is often used alongside detox.

 

Patients receiving medicine-assisted treatment are cleansed of toxins and allowed to begin healing by detoxifying their bodies.

 

In this treatment approach, low-risk replacement drugs are administered to alleviate cravings and mitigate withdrawal symptoms.

Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment:

  • Uses FDA-approved medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
  • Helps normalize brain chemistry and stabilize individuals during recovery.
  • Increases treatment retention rates and reduces the risk of relapse.
  • Provides a comprehensive approach that combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies.

Holistic Therapy

Holistic addiction treatment involves addressing the physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of a person’s life.

 

Rather than merely treating addiction’s symptoms, holistic treatment addresses its underlying causes.

 

The following are examples of holistic types of drug treatment in rehab:

 

  • Acupuncture
  • Yoga
  • Equine therapy
  • Mindfulness and Meditation
  • Nutrition
  • Massages

Benefits of Holistic Therapy:

  • Takes a holistic approach, addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery.
  • Encourages self-care practices, such as mindfulness and meditation.
  • Offers alternative types of therapy for addiction like yoga, acupuncture, and massage to promote overall well-being.
  • Supports individuals in developing healthy lifestyle habits beyond substance abuse treatment.

EMDR Therapy

EMDR, short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a widely utilized treatment approach for individuals grappling with addiction and trauma. 

 

The underlying principle of EMDR revolves around facilitating the brain in processing and reframing traumatic memories in a constructive manner. It involves harnessing emotional recalibration to substitute unpleasant and traumatic experiences with positive ones.

 

Research indicates that EMDR therapy is effective for treating clients with dual diagnoses

 

In an EMDR treatment session, clients will collaborate with their therapist to engage in a series of eye movements, guided imagery, and other techniques aimed at reprocessing negative memories. 

Benefits of EMDR Therapy:

  • Specifically targets and helps process traumatic memories related to substance abuse.
  • Reduces the emotional distress and negative beliefs associated with traumatic experiences.
  • Facilitates the reprocessing of traumatic memories, leading to symptom reduction.
  • Empowers individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms and beliefs.

 

Individual Therapy in Addiction Treatment 

Individual therapy in addiction allows recovering patients to have one-on-one sessions with a therapist that can help them overcome substance abuse or addiction.

 

Having individual and bespoke treatment options is critical in ensuring your recovery. If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction or co-occurring disorders then you must seek help immediately.

 

Elysium Healthcare is a top-rated recovery program that offers mental health and addiction recovery treatment.

 

Contact us today to find out how we can help your loved ones get the help they need.

Navigating Insurance Coverage for Addiction Treatment

Navigating Insurance Coverage for Addiction Treatment

Ready to get drug or alcohol addiction treatment but scared about the bill? Don’t worry, chances are your insurance will fully cover it. Don’t have insurance? Not a problem, we will look into what you can do if that’s the case too.

Does Insurance Cover Addiction Treatment?

The short answer is yes, health insurance does cover substance abuse treatment. But there might be some nuances that come with it. 

 

Many health insurance plans offer coverage for substance abuse treatment, although the extent of coverage and out-of-pocket expenses may differ. 

 

The policy and insurance provider are the key factors that determine the application of addiction treatment coverage. 

 

Typically, insurance covers a range of 30% to 100% of substance abuse treatment costs following the fulfillment of the deductible.

What if I Don’t Have Health Insurance for Addiction Treatment? 

Substance abuse treatment is one of the essential categories of coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).  This means that insurance coverage for addiction treatment is mandatory in the United States. 

 

In America, substance abuse treatment must be provided to the same extent as other medical and surgical treatments. Despite not having a policy at the time of addiction, it is still possible to receive insurance coverage for substance abuse treatment. 

 

The Affordable Care Act safeguards addicts seeking treatment by covering pre-existing conditions. As a result, addicts can apply for insurance and access healthcare services, regardless of their stage of recovery. 

 

Therefore, even without insurance, individuals can still explore the marketplace, obtain a policy, fulfill any deductible requirements, and access the necessary treatment.

Does Medicare and Medicaid Cover Addiction Treatment??

In the United States, Medicare and Medicaid are government-sponsored health insurance programs. It is common for these plans to cover screening for substance abuse, but not always treatment. 

 

Medicaid is a government-sponsored plan that provides assistance to low-income individuals and households. The terms of Medicaid may vary by state, but it does cover inpatient and outpatient care in centers that accept it.

Which Types of Substance Abuse Treatment Does My Health Insurance Cover?

When it comes to health insurance for addiction treatment, not all plans are the same. The treatment you receive will depend on the facility’s costs.

 

With premium plans, they’ll likely cover most of the bill but be prepared for higher costs with policies and deductibles. They might even include luxury facilities. On the flip side, basic plans might have fewer benefits.

 

To figure out what your insurance covers, reach out directly to them or chat with an admission counselor at a rehab facility. Changing your insurance plan is also an option under the Affordable Care Act, although it might take a bit longer.

 

At a minimum, you could expect policies to cover some or most of the following treatments

 

  • Behavioral health treatments such as counseling and psychotherapy
  • Mental and behavioral health inpatient services
  • Substance abuse treatment such as detox and outpatient care

Insurance Companies That Cover Substance Abuse Treatment

Finding out if substance abuse coverage is included can be challenging as it’s not commonly advertised by most providers. 

 

However, there are companies that have previously offered health insurance for addiction treatment

 

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Humana
  • Aetna
  • UMR
  • Vela Point
  • Beacon Health
  • United Healthcare
  • Multiplan
  • Geha
  • Cigna
  • CoreSource
  • Gilsbar
  • Anthem
  • Value options

What if Your Claim Is Denied?

In some cases, you could be denied coverage from your health insurance for addiction treatment. If so, you can always appeal their decision.

 

Typically, you’ll need an official denial before you can file an appeal. It’s important to keep all your coverage information, call notes, insurance provider correspondence, and the names of representatives handy to support your claim. 

 

The time for the appeal process can vary, ranging from 30 to 60 days with some expedited cases being resolved in just a day.

Financing Addiction Treatment

Don’t let financial barriers stop you from seeking recovery. There are countless ways for addicts seeking recovery to secure funding for their treatment journey. 

 

Many treatment facilities offer flexible payment plans tailored to individual financial situations. Private funding opportunities may also be within reach for some.

 

Don’t forget about government programs like Medicaid or Medicare, specifically designed to support treatment initiatives. 

 

Additionally, certain states provide grants or scholarships to help cover treatment costs. To navigate these options, consider reaching out to an admissions counselor who can guide you through the process.

 

At Veritas Detox, our admission counselors are well-versed in dealing with insurance providers and can offer invaluable expertise. 

 

Unsure if your insurance policy covers the treatment you need?  Reach out to Veritas Detox  today and let our dedicated counselors assist you on your recovery journey.

​​​​What is Aftercare in Addiction Treatment?

Great work, you’ve done it! Finally, you detoxed from alcohol or drugs and are now ready to take on the world. You’re loving your new freedom and happiness, and can barely believe you are finally here.

But don’t forget that in order to maintain your daily reprieve you must continue to work on your recovery even after you leave rehab. 

The importance of aftercare in recovery is often overlooked—which leads to high relapse rates. 

But don’t get it wrong, there is no better way to protect your newfound sobriety than by attending a relapse prevention program.

What’s a Relapse?

Whenever a recovering addict consumes alcohol or drugs again after abstinence, this is referred to as a relapse. It is very common for people struggling with addiction to relapse due to the difficulty of beating their addiction.

There is no official definition of what constitutes a relapse for addicts. In general, however, people agree that abstinence prior to a relapse must be purposeful in order to count as a relapse.

It is critical to remember that relapses are not failures, but rather stepping stones on the road to recovery. People can regain a sense of well-being and progress toward lasting recovery with the right support and treatment.

Drug Relapse Rates

The importance of aftercare goes beyond sound advice. Data shows that approximately 60% of drug addicts relapse after rehab. Proving It is just as important to work on one’s recovery outside of rehab as it is during treatment.

Relapse rates can vary depending on substances abused, treatment programs attended, and a person’s circumstances. But one of the most common reasons for it is the absence of a relapse prevention program.

Support groups and counseling help people cope with everyday challenges and maintain sobriety after rehab.

What’s a Relapse Prevention Program?

While the toughest part of recovery might be behind you, the real challenge awaits at the door. Recovery is a life-long process that’s best done with the support of peers and professionals. 

The best way to protect your new-found recovery and stay sober long after you leave rehab is to find A ​​relapse prevention program, also known as an aftercare plan.

​​Relapse prevention programs can help addicts by:

  • Using treatment to help individuals recognize the early stages of relapse and treat it before it occurs
  • Understanding that each stage of recovery has its own risk of relapse and treating each stage differently
  • Using the main tools of relapse prevention which are cognitive therapy and mind-body relaxation
  • Teaching them how to be honest and asking for help when needed

There are many forms of relapse prevention programs. Some of them include:

  • Support Groups
  • Therapy
  • 12-step programs
  • Rehab aftercare programs
  • Sober housing

A relapse prevention program employs proven strategies that help recovering addicts stay sober by meeting their individual needs.

Types of Aftercare in Addiction Treatment

Some of the most common relapse prevention programs include:

Support Groups

One of the most recognized, celebrated, and effective ways for addicts to stay sober is constant attendance at support groups. It is for this reason that twelve-step programs are so popular among those who are recovering.

It’s said that the opposite of addiction is connection, which is probably why support groups are so effective. They provide addicts in recovery with mutual aid, connection to others, and accountability.

Support groups are a great way to remember what life was like during your addiction, and what it’s like now that you are sober.

Therapy

Therapy is also an important part of maintaining an addict’s recovery, similar to support groups. 

It may take many years for a person to overcome cognitive and behavioral issues. By speaking with a professional, addicts can stay grounded while identifying patterns and behaviors that may lead to trouble in the future.

The first stages of relapse occur when the person in recovery begins to fantasize about drug use. In order to prevent a patient from relapsing back into substance abuse, a professional therapist can help identify these symptoms early on and treat them at the root. 

Sober Housing

Sober living homes come in many forms.  Here are a few examples: 

In sober homes, patients are provided with a substance-free environment. In the early stages of recovery, they are considered the most favorable environments for addicts. Aside from providing a safe environment, they also offer many in-house services such as drug testing, support groups, therapy, and more.

Finding Aftercare Programs

The importance of aftercare can’t be understated. The best way to maintain a sound recovery is to enroll in a relapse prevention program. 

There are many relapse prevention programs available throughout the United States, including recovery centers and 12-step programs. But if you are looking for a trusted and effective option then you might want to check out Elysium Healthcare. 

At Elysium Healthcare We offer some of the best relapse programs in the country.

Contact Elysium today to find out more about staying sober long after you leave rehab.

What Is the Relationship Between Depression and Anxiety?

Alcohol tolerance

Anxiety and depression are closely related, and both are prevalent mental health conditions among addicts. In fact, 73% of individuals with major depression also experience anxiety simultaneously.

But what’s the driving cause of this? Let’s take a look.

What’s Depression?

An individual suffering from depression experiences negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Symptoms of the disorder include low moods and depression, and, in the most severe cases, a lack of will to survive.

Life is full of ups and downs, but depression is usually characterized by prolonged, accentuated depressive symptoms (over two weeks). The development of depression can be caused by a number of circumstances, such as life events or brain chemistry imbalances resulting from substance abuse.

Common symptoms of depression include:

  • Persistent sad or anxious mood
  • Hopelessness and pessimism
  • Irritability, frustration, and/or restlessness
  • Loss of interest, pleasure, and willfulness
  • Lower energy levels
  • Troubled sleeping patterns
  • Changes in appetite
  • Pains, headaches, and cramps that are not eased with treatment
  • Thoughts and attempts to take one’s own life

What’s anxiety?

In its simplest form, anxiety is a feeling of worry and/or fear. As with depression, we all experience some level of anxiety from time to time without having to worry about it being a serious health condition. However, there are those whose anxiety symptoms are so severe and long-lasting that they are considered to have an anxiety disorder.

It is difficult for people suffering from anxiety symptoms to carry on with their normal activities when their symptoms are severe and long-lasting. For example, they are unable to work or take care of their families.

There are many causes of anxiety, such as work stress and substance abuse.

Common symptoms of anxiety include:

  • Panic attacks
  • Shortness of breath
  • A racing heart and mind
  • Sweating 
  • Disturbed sleep patterns
  • Feeling pins and needles
  • Tremblings
  • Stomach ache or emptiness
  • Excessive fear and worrying that impairs activities
  • Feeling powerless
  • Difficulty concentrating

What’s the Relationship Between Depression and Anxiety?

Although anxiety and depression are different, some of their symptoms are similar. This allows us to observe the relationship between depression and anxiety at a glance. There is a tendency for patients diagnosed with both disorders to experience greater severity in each. 

The relationship between depression and anxiety is linked in such a way that it works like a vicious cycle; when patients get anxious, they feel bad about it, and depression strikes. Because of this, depression is more likely to occur when anxiety is present. In the same way, depression leads to feelings of fear, worry, and anxiety which eventually leads to anxiety disorders.

Anxiety and depression exacerbate one another when combined, presenting patients with difficult complications. 

The majority of treatment centers are prepared to deal with dual-diagnosis treatments, which include both addiction and mental health issues. In the event that you or a loved one is experiencing mental health symptoms and addiction, it’s imperative that you contact a recovery expert and get help immediately.

Getting Help

Both anxiety and depression can be debilitating mental disorders that make getting well difficult for addicts. In the event that you or a loved one are experiencing depression or anxiety while abusing substances, then you may be suffering from a dual diagnosis and need to seek help. 

It is important to choose a recovery center that offers the right recovery treatments so that a smooth transition to sobriety can be achieved.

Elysium Healthcare is a premiere drug treatment center that will arm you with the tools you need to overcome addiction.

Contact Elysium today and find out how we can help!

What Are the Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal?

You might have heard the term fentanyl thrown around recently in the media. In the last few years, the drug has been responsible for multiple overdose deaths across the country. 

Its withdrawal symptoms can also be deadly if not treated properly, which is why it’s so important that you get familiar with them if you or a loved one is addicted to fentanyl.

What Is Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is commonly prescribed to relieve pain. Generally, this drug is used for treating severe pain, such as that caused by the advanced stages of cancer or by surgery. Fentanyl is an opioid substance, which means it is in the same family as heroin, oxycodone, and morphine.

Like other drugs in this category, Fentanyl can be highly addictive and deadly.

What Does Fentanyl Do To The Body

These are the most common fentanyl effects on the body

  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Respiratory depression
  • Slow heart rate
  • Low blood pressure
  • Extreme happiness
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Sedation

What Does Fentanyl Do To Addict’s Behaviors

These are the most common fentanyl effects on an addict’s behavior

 

  • Secrecy or mysterious behaviors
  • Social withdrawal
  • Lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed
  • Financial problems
  • Stealing
  • Lying compulsively
  • Disappearing for long periods of time
  • Changes in mood
  • Issues at work or at school
  • Ignoring responsibilities
  • Changes in appearance such as weight loss or poor hygiene

Risks of Taking Fentanyl

There are many ways in which fentanyl can harm addicts. As with most opioids, prolonged use can lead to death and permanent organ damage. Its withdrawal symptoms can be severe and deadly.

Taking Fentanyl is highly risky since it has a high overdose potential. As a matter of fact, Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are the leading cause of overdose deaths. 

In 2021, more than 70,000 deaths were reported from synthetic opioid overdoses. Those numbers were primarily attributed to fentanyl.

The majority of overdoses involving fentanyl are caused by illicitly manufactured fentanyl, not prescription drugs.

What Are Fentanyl Withdrawals 

When patients use fentanyl for a prolonged period of time, they develop a physical dependency on the drug. The bodies of these individuals have become accustomed to having the drug in their system, so when their systems are cleansed of it, they will react negatively.

These negative effects are known as withdrawals. They can be life-threatening if not treated properly.

The main reason addicts attend detox is withdrawal symptoms since detoxifying their bodies requires pharmacological support and medical supervision.

Symptoms of Withdrawal From Fentanyl

There are several factors that determine the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms, including how long and how much of the drug was taken.

There are a number of symptoms that can be mild and non-life-threatening, while others, like depression and autonomic hyperactivity, can be fatal.

An experienced recovery specialist should be consulted before detoxing from fentanyl. 

If a person experiences any signs or symptoms of withdrawal from fentanyl, he or she should contact their healthcare provider or call 911 immediately.

The common symptoms of withdrawal from fentanyl include:

  • Excessive flow of tears
  • Muscle aches
  • Tremors
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dilated pupils
  • Eye discomfort in bright lights
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Autonomic hyperactivity
  • Irritable moods
  • Depression and suicidal thoughts
  • Anxiety

Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction

Taking action before it is too late is essential for anyone suffering from fentanyl or opioid addiction.

The good news is that fentanyl addiction can be treated. However, in most cases, it requires professional help. Drugs like fentanyl are extremely addictive, making quitting them extremely difficult for addicts. 

Withdrawal effects from the drug could also be high risk since they could cause death. When the symptoms of withdrawal from fentanyl are severe, Fentanyl addicts require a pharmacological detox to sober up safely.

In fact, SAMHSA—a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services—points to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as the most effective treatment for opioid addiction.

Through the combination of medication and therapy, MAT can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

A drug addict may also benefit from evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and group therapy. It is possible to overcome addiction, manage withdrawal symptoms, and prevent relapse with treatments like these.

Finding Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction

Now that you know what the fentanyl effects are and how dangerous it can be, you might want to seek out help if you or someone you love has fallen victim to fentanyl abuse.

At Elysium Healthcare we specialize in the treatment of opioid addiction including treatment for those suffering from fentanyl abuse.

Contact us today and find out how our holistic treatments can help you or your loved ones with withdrawal from fentanyl.

What is the Importance of Sober Hobbies in Recovery?

What is the Importance of Sober Hobbies in Recovery?

Stillness could be an unfriendly foe for those who suffer from racing thoughts. Left to their own devices, addicts might find themselves in an endless conversation with themselves that can often turn dark and negative.

This lack of activity is often the reason why many addicts seek to indulge in their vices. Having hobbies and fun sober activities in recovery can help addicts keep negative thoughts at bay and avoid a relapse.

Benefits of Sober Hobbies in Recovery

By engaging in sober hobbies, addicts are able to substitute their indulgences for new healthy habits. Be it a craft, sports, or a walk down the beach, hobbies support the development of a balanced lifestyle.

But avoiding the risk of relapse is not the only benefit of keeping yourself entertained with hobbies in recovery. In fact, hobbies for addicts are a great way to gain a greater sense of self-worth and build community.

For example, by joining a sport an addict might be able to connect with other healthy individuals, develop healthy exercise habits, and build confidence.

Hobbies for addicts are also a great way of improving your mood and your overall well-being. A hobby is an activity that’s meant to be enjoyed and bring out happiness in you. 

They are also a great way to stay entertained which can help addicts stay away from activities that might prompt a relapse—like going out to bars or nightclubs.

Boredom and stress can place an addict at a high risk of relapse, both of which can be solved by engaging in healthy hobbies for recovering addicts.

Furthermore, by gaining mastery of a hobby an addict might gain the confidence needed to master other areas of their life such as work and relationships.

Examples of Sober Hobbies in Recovery

Addicts can take up a wide variety of hobbies that can be as diverse as their personalities.

There are countless hobbies for recovering addicts to explore, but we have broken down some categories that can inspire you to find the hobby that’s right for you.

Exercise

Exercising can help improve your physical health, reduce stress, promote a positive mood, and build confidence. And if you were wondering, no, a runner’s high doesn’t count as a relapse.

These are some of the most fun sober activities that involve exercise:

  • Running
  • Swimming
  • Cycling
  • Weightlifting
  • Taking up a sport like soccer, golf, or gymnastics.

Art

Self-expressing through art can be a higher form of meditation and it’s one of the most popular fun sober activities a recovering addict can take on. 

These are some artistic hobbies for recovering addicts:

  • Painting
  • Sculpting with clay
  • Creating digital art
  • Acting or enrolling in theater
  • Video editing

Music

Music opens the gates of the soul. It can help addicts change their mood in a heartbeat and can also be a form of meditation. 

Music hobbies for addicts include:

  • Playing an instrument
  • Taking piano lessons
  • Singing
  • Simply listening to music

Writing

Writing and journaling are incredibly helpful in recovery. They are a great way to release emotions on paper and help addicts organize their thoughts. It’s also a great way to record and share their experiences in recovery with others.

These are some of the most fun sober activities that involve writing:

  • Writing poems
  • Journaling each morning
  • Making gratitude lists
  • Blogging about recovery
  • Songwriting

Volunteering

One of the principles addicts learn in 12-step recovery programs is the importance of giving back and working with others to be able to stay sober.

Volunteering is a great hobby that can give a recovering addict a sense of purpose and fulfillment. 

Volunteering hobbies for recovering addicts include:

  • Working with other alcoholics to achieve sobriety
  • Helping at a local soup kitchen
  • Helping clean their local beach or other nature locations
  • Assisting at the animal shelter
  • Helping fund money for causes they care for

Outdoor Activities

A different kind of sport, outdoor activities combine exercise with all the benefits of being outside and connecting with nature. They are a great way to improve the mood, get a breath of fresh air, and connect with others.

These are some of the most fun sober activities that can be done outdoors:

  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Skiing
  • Playing volleyball on the beach

Hobbies and Aftercare

Aftercare programs and rehabs that place value on hobbies can help addicts build strong recovery habits from day one.

Elysium Healthcare offers rehab and aftercare programs that place an emphasis on preparing the recovering addict with healthy habits and fun hobbies so they may have a successful recovery.

Contact us today and see how we can help you get sober today!

How Does Alcohol Affect Men and Women Differently?

How Does Alcohol Affect Men and Women Differently?

We might be all equal in the eyes of society, but alcohol can be discriminatory when it comes to affecting both women and men in the same way. 

Alcohol affects men and women quite differently, but how exactly?

Let me explain.

Physical Differences Between Men and Women

One of the primary distinctions between how alcohol affects men and women is how alcohol is metabolized in their bodies. Men and women have different physiologies which is why alcohol tends to produce different effects on them.

Men tend to have a higher water percentage in their bodies when compared to the other sex, which has a significant effect on how alcohol dilutes their system. On the other hand, women tend to have more body fat than men, which affects the way their bodies retain alcohol.

This biological difference could lead to more alcohol retention for women and in turn longer lasting hangovers. 

It also means that women can become more intoxicated than men after consuming the same amount of alcohol. Women can also experience the immediate effects of alcohol more quickly than men.

Alcohol Abuse and Physical Health

Metabolic changes in both sexes can also produce different types of health risks for both men and women. The most obvious is the impact that alcohol consumption can have on the women’s reproductive system.

Women who drink heavily during pregnancy are at risk of fetal alcohol syndrome—a serious developmental condition that can create problems in children that include intellectual disabilities and facial abnormalities. 

Fetal alcohol syndrome can be prevented in its entirety if a woman does not drink during pregnancy. 

Drinking during pregnancy also increases the risk of having a miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, and sudden infant death syndrome.

But there are also adverse effects when it comes to other areas of their sexual health. For men, alcohol abuse could lead to erectile dysfunction. While women may suffer from decreased libido.

Psychological Differences Between Men and Women

There are also significant psychological differences when it comes to how alcohol affects men and women.

 

When it comes to men, data shows that they are more likely to engage in risky behaviors while they are intoxicated. On the other hand, women are more likely to develop an addiction to alcohol. 

A study shows that a total of 18% of women binge drink. Out of those, it’s believed that at least 25% of them binge drink on a weekly average.

Because binge drinking is a risk factor for sexual assault, women are more likely to experience sexual trauma due to alcohol consumption. Although both genders are equally vulnerable. 

Differences in Treatment

Alcohol affects men and women differently and when it comes to treatment there are also disparities between both genres that can make it difficult to recover.

For example, women might experience a number of challenges when it comes to treatment such as leaving behind family responsibilities, having financial or transport limitations, and suffering from stigma.

Stigmas and social challenges are huge deterrents for women as they tend to lack the social support needed to take steps toward recovery.

It’s primarily for these reasons that women are less likely to receive adequate alcohol abuse treatment. In fact, women only make up about one-third of rehab patients.

Seeking Treatment

Given that alcohol affects men and women differently and that they require different care and attention during treatment it’s important to find a treatment center that can attend to the specific needs of each gender.

At Elysium Healthcare we do just that. Our team of experts is trained to cater to the specific needs of each gender. Our diverse treatment modalities include holistic and bespoke practices for all of our patients.Contact us today and find out how we can help.

What Percentage of Veterans Are Alcoholics?

Not even the best of us get to escape the hunting grip of alcoholism. In fact, substance use disorders are a common issue among our nation’s veterans. Military service can be a stressful and traumatic experience, which in the worst of cases ends up leading veterans to turn to alcohol and other substances to cope with the pain and trauma.

 

But how bad is the problem really? 

 

Let’s take a deep dive into it and explore the connection between veterans and alcoholism, the factors that contribute to its development, and how we might be able to help.

What Percentage of Veterans Are Alcoholics? 

It’s tough to pinpoint exactly the actual percentage of veterans who are alcoholics. This type of data depends on ex-service members reporting their personal statistics, and unfortunately many just don’t. 

However, the number is thought to be considerably high. Some reports suggest that more than one in ten former military members have been diagnosed with substance abuse disorders—showing that nearly 10% of military personnel are heavy drinkers. 

But the number increases when considering binge drinkers. The same report shows that more than 1 in 3 active-duty service members are binge drinkers—a trait mostly common among personnel with high combat exposure.

Over the past few years as deployments have intensified there has been a correlation between the increase in alcohol consumption and binge drinking among servicemen.

We also have some data on servicemen who have sought out treatment. Approximately 65% of military patients who have sought out recovery have done so due to alcoholism or alcohol abuse.

What Causes Alcoholism in Veterans? 

Overall the numbers of alcohol abuse including binge drinking are considerably high among servicemen, particularly when compared to civilians.

But why is that exactly?

Well, there are numerous factors that can contribute to this. For one thing, drinking alcohol can serve as a way to connect with their fellows. With the high-stress levels, lack of recreational activities and loneliness, and boredom, many members willingly turn to alcohol to fill the void. 

But probably one of the primary drivers of substance abuse among servicemen is the need to self-medicate trauma. There is a large link between veterans and alcoholism when it comes to cases of PTSD, depression, and other mental health disorders. 

Here are some of the most common causes of alcoholism in veterans:

PTSD

PTSD is a common occurrence among military and veterans. At some point in their life, 7 out of every 100 Veterans will suffer from PTSD. 

The macho culture and image of strength portrayed in the military might keep soldiers from wanting to seek out help for their trauma as this could be looked at as weakness. Instead, they might seek to self-medicate and indulge in alcoholism tendencies.

Depression

Depression is also another cause that can lead veterans to drink. Veterans are commonly diagnosed with co-occurring disorders that include depression.

Other Traumas

Other traumas like sexual trauma from abuse inside the military can also contribute to alcoholism in the military.

Returning home from combat can also be an overwhelming experience when trying to process all of the hardships that happened overseas. Many service members rely on alcohol as a crutch to find a way to function while back in the normal world. 

Over time this crutch becomes a dependent that is very difficult to acknowledge and even harder to break. 

When you combine this with service members heading out to combat and experiencing traumas, they learn to cope the only way they are shown how – by drinking to numb the pain. 

Sources for Veterans and Alcoholism

Now that you know more about veterans and alcoholism you might be wondering how to get help for yourself or a veteran you care for.

There are many programs available to help veterans who have put their life and mental health on the line to serve our country. 

One of the best ways to get help is by attending rehab for veterans.

Elysium Healthcare is a leading provider of alcohol recovery services for service men and women.

Contact us today and find out how you can benefit from this program.