​​​​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.

Is Alcoholism Prevalent in the LGBTQ Community?

Is Alcoholism Prevalent in the LGBTQ Community

When looking at substance abuse in the LGBTQ community compared to the general public, the numbers are typically higher.

Gay, bisexual, and transgender men and women are more likely to abuse alcohol, but they also have higher drug use rates.

Let’s take a deep dive into alcoholism and LGBTQ community issues and see what the underlying causes of this might be.

LGBTQ Alcoholism

Alcoholism and LGBTQ community issues have been closely related for decades now. Generally speaking, society has had a poor perception of the community which has had a significant impact on the mental health of its members.

Not all people are tolerant of others, and LGBTQ people experience homophobia, discrimination, and even violence because of their sexual orientation. In turn, this can drastically impact their mental health, and increase emotional distress.

As we know, mental health problems are more than just related to alcoholism. It’s a leading cause of it.

The negative outlook has also pushed a large portion of the community underground where a culture of after-hours clubs and underground gay bars has developed.

 It’s within this underground scene and culture that many in the LGBTQ community have sought out comfort in both alcohol and illicit drugs

Prevalence of LGBTQ Alcoholism

While it’s not the entire LGBTQ population who has a problem with alcohol, numbers across the board are higher than for other groups.

Overall, 25% of the LGBTQ community is thought to have a moderate addiction to alcohol–compared to only 5-10% of the general population.

But that’s not the community’s only problem. Other popular substances that are abused among LGBTQ include tobacco, GHB, ecstasy, and prescription opiates. 

Reasons For High Levels of LGBTQ Alcoholism

There are several driving factors behind the increased numbers of alcoholism in the LGBTQ community. The root could be related to various mental illness disorders or emotions that make people more susceptible to alcoholism. 

This could be triggered by serval reasons including shame, anxiety, depression, sexual abuse, anger, and self-harm tendencies. 

For one thing, it’s possible that the intense bigotry that the LGBTQ community faces on a daily basis could be behind it.

The bigotry and challenges that LGBTQ community members have to face often result in intense emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and even PTSD.

It is possible that members of the community may not seek help for mental health difficulties caused by this trauma. This is primarily due to discrimination within the healthcare system. Often, this leads to self-medication and alcoholism.

Co-occurring disorders in The LGBTQ Community

In the LGBTQ community, alcohol use disorders often co-occur with other mental health conditions. This is known as a dual diagnosis.

The LGBTQ and heterosexual communities are both prone to depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although each co-occurring disorder affects a person differently, there are some differences between them.

LGBTQ individuals, for instance, are more likely to suffer from depression than heterosexuals. Alcohol abuse disorders can be fuelled by depression, which could lead to more community addictions. 

In the same way, anxiety can lead to alcohol abuse as a coping mechanism.

Getting Help for LGBTQ Alcoholism

Figuring out the root cause of alcoholism, providing support, and offering recovery options is a big part of the solution.  

Once the cause of drinking is determined, turning to friends, family members or treatment centers for support can be a ticket to beating alcoholism. 

Programs in treatment facilities have been expanded and tailored specifically for members of the LGBTQ community.  If you or someone you know are part of the LGBTQ community and suffer from alcoholism, you are not alone. 

This is an ongoing battle that many other members have struggled with and have been able to overcome. 

With the right support system, treatment plan, and assistance, you can come out on the positive end of the scale. 

LGBTQ Rehab

Now that you know more about alcoholism and LGBTQ community issues and how to get treatment you might want to join a recovery center that’s tailored to meet the needs of the community. 

Elysium Healthcare offers a leading recovery program for LQGBTQ that’s free of judgment.Contact us today and discover which treatment option is best for you

Are Men More Likely to Be Alcoholics?

Are Men More Likely to Be Alcoholics?

Sex disparity when it comes to alcohol and substance abuse disorders is notable. Men are culturally more prompt to drink and consume drugs than women.

But aside from cultural disparities, are men or women more likely to be alcoholics? Let’s find out.

What Makes Someone an Alcoholic?

Before we answer the question “Are men or women more likely to be alcoholics?” we need to first get clear on what it actually means to be an alcoholic.

Alcoholics are individuals who have developed a physical dependence on alcohol, which means their bodies have gotten used to having the substance in their bodies.

A physical need for alcohol can manifest in a variety of ways. In its simplest form, it’s considered to be a drinker’s inability to control how much they consume. 

When subjects with alcohol dependence stop consuming alcohol, their physical dependence symptoms become more apparent, such as withdrawal symptoms or delirium tremens.

It goes without saying that alcoholics suffer from numerous shortcomings in their social lives and health as well.

Are Men More Likely to Be Alcoholics?

There are a variety of factors that influence alcoholism, including genetics, environment, and individual behavior. 

There is a stereotype about alcoholism that men are more likely to drink alcohol than women, and research shows that men are actually more likely than women to drink excessively. 

In a study, close to 58% of adult men reported drinking over the previous week when compared to only 49% of women. Research also shows that men are more likely to binge drink than women with approximately 21% of them reporting binge drinking, a lot less than the 13% reported by women.

However, in spite of the fact that men have traditionally consumed more alcohol and engaged in heavy drinking, recent research suggests that women are closing the gender gap in alcohol consumption.

The Gender Gap in Drinking

Alcohol consumption and heavy drinking have historically been more prevalent among men. There are a number of social and cultural factors that contribute to this trend. 

For example, men are often socialized to view heavy drinking as a symbol of strength and masculinity, whereas women are encouraged to limit their alcohol consumption and maintain a more “ladylike” attitude. It appears, however, that the gender gap in drinking is narrowing.

According to researchers, the percentage of women who reported drinking alcohol in the past year increased from 44.9% to 48.3%. In contrast, the percentage of men who reported drinking alcohol in the past year decreased from 57.4% to 56.1%.

Despite women catching up to men when it comes to alcohol consumption, research suggests men are still more likely to become alcoholics. 

According to research from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, men are twice as likely as women to develop alcoholism. Additionally, there is increasing evidence that men are more likely than women to suffer from alcohol-related health issues.

Additionally, men are more likely to develop alcoholism at a younger age than women—not looking so well for boys.

Talking to a Recovery Expert

Now that you know the answer to “Are men or women more likely to be alcoholics?” you might be wondering what to do if you are a gender that’s more prone to alcoholism. If so, then it’s time to get help.

 Elysium Healthcare offers bespoke treatments to each gender ensuring your program is tailored to benefit you.

Contact  Elysium today for a consultation and speaks to one of our recovery experts

Connection Between Anxiety and Drug Abuse

Addiction and anxiety are two mental health disorders that often go hand-in-hand, fueling each other in a vicious cycle of mental deterioration. 

In fact, addiction, anxiety, and depression are so closely related that it’s estimated that close to 7.7 million adults have co-occurring mental and substance use disorders. 

Anxiety and Addiction: A Loop of Suffering

Addiction, anxiety, and depression are all co-occurring disorders that tend to exacerbate each other. 

The cycle goes something like this:

  • An addict consumes drugs which creates a physical and mental imbalance
  • The drug then depresses the addict or causes anxiety
  • In order to feel happy or less anxious the addict consumes drugs again
  • The drugs aggravate their co-occurring disorder(s)
  • More drugs are needed to calm the worsening symptoms of anxiety and/or depression
  • Rinse and repeat

As one may imagine, this vicious cycle could quickly lead addicts down a path of self-inflicted destruction and worsen the dual diagnosis to the point where the addict will not be able to get well without the necessary help.

Substance abuse could also cause problems in an addict’s life that could lead to more stress and anxiety. 

For example, drug or alcohol use can lead to financial struggles, legal problems, and strained relationships, all of which are major contributors to the development of anxiety.

Anxiety and Substance Abuse

Addicts with a developing co-occurring disorder or those already suffering from mental health issues seeking to soothe their suffering are both at equal risk of falling prey to the loop of suffering.

People with anxiety disorders are more likely to struggle with substance abuse, and substance abuse can worsen anxiety symptoms. This places a great part of the U.S. population at risk considering that data shows the prevalence of anxiety in America.

Close to 31% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their life. It’s estimated that at least 19% of them had an anxiety disorder last year.

While most people suffering from anxiety will have mild symptoms, data shows that at least 43% of them will suffer from a mild impairment. 

It’s this part of the population that could be at the highest risk as they might not feel their problem is grave enough to consult a doctor but instead might take to self-medicating at home with drugs or alcohol.

Treating Co-Occurring Anxiety and Substance Abuse Disorders

People suffering from addiction and anxiety could be more likely to struggle when it comes to treatment. That’s because addiction, anxiety, and depression can’t be treated in their own bubble. 

If an addict is suffering from a dual diagnosis, then a holistic comprehensive approach must be taken to address both conditions simultaneously. 

If all conditions are not addressed as one, it could be a waste of time for the patient. If an addict is able to stop taking drugs without treating their anxiety and depression, they risk that those disorders will lead them back to a relapse.

One effective way to ensure addiction and anxiety are treated correctly is by attending a rehab center that offers evidence-based treatments and that takes a holistic approach to recovery.

These rehab centers usually employ effective forms of therapy for co-occurring disorders like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). 

CBT can help recovering addicts with anxiety by teaching them coping mechanisms to manage their symptoms without needing to turn to drugs or alcohol to soothe them.

This form of therapy can also help address the underlying issues that may be fueling their addictions in the first place.

Finding Anxiety and Substance Abuse Disorder Treatment

If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction, anxiety, and depression then you must act quickly in order to get them the help they need before the symptoms exacerbate each other.

Elysium Healthcare offers top-rated addiction treatment programs in the U.S. that can help you or your loved ones get the help you need to free yourself from the loop of suffering.

Contact us today and see how our treatments can help.

How to Help Someone With Drug Addiction and Depression

Helping someone with a drug addiction is difficult enough. Add depression to the mix and you’ve got yourself a real  challenge. However, it’s not an impossible task, but it’s one that requires delicacy and a deep understanding of the problem and all possible solutions to it.

If you’ve been wondering how you can help your loved ones suffering from addiction and depression, or if you are seeking depression and addiction recovery then you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get into it. 

Understanding Depression and Addiction Recovery

The first step in helping someone with drug addiction and depression is understanding their condition and the relationship between these two mental health disorders.

Drug addiction and depression often go hand in hand as drugs tend to affect pleasure and pain mechanisms in the brain which leads to chemical imbalances and depressive states. 

These two mental health disorders are part of a vicious cycle of deteriorating mental health by exacerbating each other. Conversely, individuals who struggle with depression may turn to drugs as a way to cope with their symptoms, which in turn aggravates depression. 

Therefore, depression and addiction recovery are only effective when both disorders are treated in parallel. Neglecting either will likely result in a relapse or a lack of progress.

Signs of Drug Addiction and Depression

If you suspect that someone you love might be struggling with addiction and depression then there are some signs you should look out for before approaching them.

Some of the signs of drug addiction and depression include::

  • Not participating in social activities
  • Neglecting hygiene
  • Having mood swings or emotional outbursts
  • Showing signs of anxiety or a frenzy
  • Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
  • Attempting to take their own lives

How to Help Someone With Drug Addiction and Depression

Once you have confirmed your suspicions, the next step is to act to offer the addict help. It is possible, however, that the addict will not be as receptive as initially thought. This is normal as both addiction and depression can cloud their thinking. If that’s the case, it’s best to use different strategies to convince them to receive help for depression and addiction recovery.

Show Empathy and Understanding

Being depressed as an addict can often bring up negative feelings like shame and the need for isolation. Offering an empathetic approach and showing you understand their condition will help the addict feel comfortable with you and ultimately help you persuade them to take the right decision.

By expressing empathy and understanding, you can also create a safe space for them to open up and share their thoughts and feelings.

Approaching an addict with judgment or force might push them away and make things worse. One must also remember that depression could be a risky mental health disorder that could lead to the addict taking their own life. For this reason, it’s always best to approach them with delicacy and with the assistance of a mental health professional.

Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help

There is no substitute for bringing a professional to the table even prior to approaching them. Seeking professional help is not just an option, it’s a necessity. 

It can be extremely difficult to treat a dual diagnosis without the help of a professional. Even if the addict finds a way to stop consuming, chances are they could relapse once their depression weighs heavily on them.

Seeking professional help may involve finding a therapist or counselor who specializes in treating both addiction and depression. But the best approach is always to get in contact with a rehab center that offers treatment for co-occurring disorders.

Be Patient

The addict might unfortunately not be receptive right away. Therefore, patience and understanding are needed when dealing with their condition. 

Even if they are receptive, challenges could come along the way like relapses. Being patient and offering continued support despite setbacks is one of the best ways you can help someone who needs depression and addiction recovery.

Encourage Healthy Habits 

Finally encouraging healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also be beneficial in supporting depression and addiction recovery.

Healthy diet and exercise are both effective ways to help someone get out of a depressive rot and into wellness. As a result, they may be able to find the moral and physical energy they need to commit to sobriety by doing these things.

Professional Help

As we mentioned earlier there is no substitute for professional help when it comes to depression and addiction recovery.

In finding professional help you will want to look for a rehab center that’s able to meet the needs of your loved ones.

Elysium Healthcare is a top-rated recovery program in the United States that offers depression and addiction recovery treatment.

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