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Alternative Treatments for Addiction Recovery

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What is it Like to Go Through Detox in Rehab?

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How Can I Help My Loved One With Addiction?

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What is Mental Illness?

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Alternative Treatments for Addiction Recovery

Alternative Treatments for Addiction Recovery

Millions of people have recovered from addiction through 12-step based programs. They provide effective counseling and therapy that can help addicts break the cycle of addiction. Although these programs are great, they’re not the only option for getting clean.

Did you know that nearly a quarter of all drug rehabs use programs other than the 12-step method during the recovery process? Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. There are unique needs that you have when it comes to breaking free of addiction. 12-step based treatment may not be the best option for you. 

Here are some alternative programs to consider if you’re looking for a treatment program.

SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery was founded in 1994 and offers support groups for individuals who want to be free from any kind of addiction. Participants in SMART Recovery receive tools to help them recover from addiction. These tools are based upon scientific research and four principles.

  • Building and maintaining motivation
  • How to deal with urges
  • Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
  • A balanced life

These techniques teach people how to change their lives from within. They encourage them to take control of their lives and empower themselves. This concept is in direct contrast to the traditional 12-step approach, which requires that there be an acceptance that one is in no position to overcome addiction on their own.

Individuals are encouraged to have a conversation with each other during meetings, rather than at one another. As scientific knowledge about addiction recovery improves, SMART Recovery will continue to evolve. Meetings for SMART Recovery can be held in traditional venues or online.

Harm reduction

The harm reduction strategy is a collection of strategies that are designed to reduce high-risk behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse. This non-judgmental approach aims to meet people where they are with their drug or alcohol use. Participants will discuss the risks of alcohol and drugs using principles through open dialogue and discussion.

Abstinence is desirable, but harm reduction is a good option for anyone who wants to reduce the risk of high-risk behaviors like drinking or drug abuse. The harm reduction approach is controversial among members of the recovery community. This is especially because it allows substance use in moderation.

Holistic medicine as an alternative treatment for addiction recovery

Holistic addiction treatment

A growing number of treatment centers are using holistic treatment concepts to treat their clients. Holistic drug treatment focuses on the whole person, including the mind, body, and spirit. 

Holistic drug treatment is based on the belief that addiction can only be treated if an addict works to improve many aspects of his or her own life.

It is not enough to stop using. The addict must heal and take care of themselves in all phases. Holistic therapy combines traditional counseling and therapy concepts with meditation, acupuncture and nutrition therapy. It also includes exercise programs, meditation, acupuncture and animal therapy.

The Life Process Program

The invention of Dr. Stanton Peele, the Life Process Program was created as a direct alternative to 12-step programs such as Narcotics/Alcoholics Anonymous. The program is web-based and focuses on the belief that people can overcome their addictions without support groups.

The program is based on four fundamental tenets. These are:

  • Values and purpose
  • Motivation
  • Real-world skills and life skills
  • Building and maintaining community and interpersonal relationships

The Life Process Program was originally used in luxury rehab facilities. It has since been made available online as an extensive online course that offers both telephone and online coaching. This program teaches participants how to prevent relapses and build self-worth, values, and purpose.

Women for Sobriety

Women for Sobriety was founded in 1976. It has more than 300 chapters across the United States. The “New Life” program is based on the Thirteen Acceptance Statements, which shares similarities with the Twelve Steps. 

They address powerlessness and promote emotional and spiritual growth. The groups are small in size, with only 6-10 women per group. Online meetings and forums are available.

Selecting the right program for you

There are many other treatment options available for addicts, in addition to the ones mentioned above. Some programs are controversial in terms of how addiction can be treated. Grand Canyon Health & Fitness does not endorse any type of addiction treatment.

Our goal is to present information to our readers from as many perspectives as possible to encourage thought and meaningful discussion. It is important that you have as much knowledge as you can before making any decisions about the treatment of a loved one, or yourself.

What is it Like to Go Through Detox in Rehab?

Detox in Rehab

It can be overwhelming to decide to finally detox from your addiction and you probably have so many questions. How stressful is detox? Is it possible to remain sober for the long-term? Is it worth it to invest in a rehabilitation facility?

We want to ease some of your fears and give you an inside look at detox in rehab centers, specifically a seven day long detox process. Just remember that it depends on what substance you are addicted to and how long you have been using it to determine how long detox will take. A rapid detox program may only require you to detox for three days, while a longer detox may be necessary for up to ten days.

Detox: Day 1

Get Acquainted With the Staff

Check-in will take place upon arrival at the clinic. You’ll be introduced to your nurses, doctors, and other staff members that will be by your side through the detox process and perhaps even your entire treatment program.

Talking to your counselor is one of the most important things you will do when you first start at a rehab. To create a customized treatment plan for you, your counselor will need to know about your drug and alcohol use, your mental health, as well as your family history. You’ll be able to see the facility and your room and settle in if you are staying in the rehab center as part of an inpatient treatment program. 

Detox in Rehab

Medical Exam

All types of substance addictions can cause harm to your body. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and run some tests to find out more about you. It’s important to tell the truth, no matter how difficult it may be to discuss your addiction. Your doctor will determine which medication you might need for detox so it is important to provide accurate information in order to give the correct prescriptions. Your doctor will also plan your next week’s meals to replace the nutritional loss from your addiction.

Detox in Rehab

Detox Begins

Now it’s time to start your detox. Although you might be prescribed medication, some medications won’t be available until later. At this point, all you can do is adjust to your life in rehab and make yourself as comfortable as possible.

Detox in Rehab

Detox: Days 2-6

It’s not easy. It will be difficult to get through the day without wondering if you’ll feel better. You will keep waiting for withdrawal symptoms to ease and they will. Here’s how you might spend your days in the meantime.

Eating a Healthy Diet

You have likely been deficient in key nutrients for some time. Eating well is essential to restore your normal state of mind. You may be prescribed vitamins by your doctor to help you eat better. You might find it difficult to eat for the first time, but you will find your appetite returning as you sip water and drink lots of juices.

Detox in Rehab

Taking Advantage of the Rehab Center’s Programs

You can start visiting programs regularly once you feel well enough. These could include group therapy which can also help if you are dealing with a mental illness, holistic healing activities such as yoga, 12-step meetings, or recreational activities.

Your counselor or doctor will also be present to ensure that your detox goes smoothly. Don’t hesitate to raise any concerns during these meetings. They will benefit from your feedback to ensure that detox works as it should.

Detox in Rehab

Getting Lots of Sleep

When your brain is working overtime and your body is in pain, it can be difficult to fall asleep. It is important to get as much sleep as you can. This will allow your body to rest and heal properly. Talk to your doctor if you have trouble sleeping and see how they can help you.

Detox in Rehab

Detox: Day 7

At this point, your body will have eliminated the toxins. You may still feel tired or experience withdrawal symptoms. However, you’ll be feeling more hopeful by now.

Getting Prepared For the Rest of Your Treatment

It is possible that you have started treatment in detox. You’ll now be able to start the full treatment schedule at the same facility or another. This includes more therapy sessions, more holistic treatment, and even learning how to remain sober once you leave treatment.

The first and most important step in your recovery journey is detox. The treatment throughout and afterwards is what will teach you how to stay sober and recover. Your counselor will talk with you about your treatment options. These will include an inpatient or outpatient program and a plan to wean yourself off of your detox medication.

Detox in Rehab

Conclusion

There are many options out there for rehabs that will take care of you or your loved one with addiction during the detox process. All you need to do is research trusted rehabs that will work for you and contact one that you would like to attend. Remember, you are never alone in your recovery process and having a team by your side will ensure your success to get sober and stay sober.

How Can I Help My Loved One With Addiction?

Helping a Loved One With Addiction

Addiction is a complex disease. The addict isn’t the only one affected by the disease. Friends and family can struggle with an addict’s behavior, legal issues, and daily support. These are seven ways that friends and family can support an addict friend or family member.

Stay Informed

Learn more about addiction. Learn about the symptoms of addiction. Learn about the effects on family members and friends. It is possible to gain knowledge about your loved one and yourself. There are many resources for finding this information: SAMHSA.gov (Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration) has all types of educational and informational resources. There is a lot of information available in the public library and on the internet about education, groups, treatment, support, etc.

Helping a Loved One with Addiction

Get Assistance

It can cause a lot of distress in your life if you have a loved one with an addiction problem. There are many support groups available that can help you cope with addiction, offer resources, and help the addict, including Al-Anon for alcohol addictions and Nar-Anon for drug addictions, both prescription and illegal.

Helping a Loved One with Addiction

Find Counseling

Specific therapy might be beneficial to you. Counseling is not just for addicts. You will be able help your loved one if you can manage everything in your life a bit better. There are many resources available to help you find counselors. You may be able to access mental health benefits through your insurance or the Employee Assistance Program of your company. Talk to someone you trust about the resources that you require and conduct a search in your area.

Helping a Loved One with Addiction

Look For Resources That Provide Help

It may be beneficial to speak to attorneys who are covered if you require assistance with legal or financial matters. You can find organizations that offer services at a sliding-scale fee by calling your local Mental Health Agency, or United Way. You may also find counseling at a local church that is free or low cost.

Stop Enabling Your Loved One’s Addiction

Family members can find it difficult to cope with the effects of the disease. Family members often support the addict’s addiction, even though they don’t realize it. Do not try to save the addict. People are often unable to change until forced. Do not financially support an addict or their addiction. Family members and friends often buy groceries or provide financial assistance to pay court fees or attorneys. However, this only prolongs the disease since addicts can avoid them.

Set Sensible Expectations

Do not lecture the addict. You must hold them responsible for their expectations. Do not expect addicts to keep their word. They are not capable of doing so while they are battling addiction. Do not react with anger or pity. You will only be a part of the addiction. If your loved one is ready to get help, you can contact Legal Aid programs in your area to see if you qualify for those services or they may be able to direct you to someone who can assist you in the recovery process.

Helping a Loved One with addiction

Look After Yourself

To help an addict, it is important to focus on your life. Stress can lead to resentment, strain, and even worse, a mental illness like depression. It can be difficult to offer help to someone who has caused so much distress in your life. You can help your addicted loved one by taking care of yourself. This includes getting enough sleep, exercising, socializing, and seeking support when you need it.

Helping a Loved One with addiction

It is important to remember that you are not alone. These issues are not unique to you. It is important that you get the support and resources you need.

What is Mental Illness?

What is Mental Illness

What is Mental Illness?

This is a question many people who are suffering from mental illnesses ask themselves when the condition becomes so severe that it takes over your life. But why do you keep suffering? Why don’t you come out of this mental disorder? Well, you are not alone and there are many people in the same situation as you. But, with the right tools and effort, you can definitely take control of your life again.

Before we answer the question, how to come out of mental illness, let us first understand what it actually is. It is defined as a mental disorder that prevents you from coping with everyday situations and responsibilities. Mental illnesses can take form in various forms but the common symptoms include pessimistic attitude, lack of focus, negative self talk, inability to concentrate, hyperactivity, paranoia, and exaggerated sense of reality.

As I said, these illnesses take control of a person’s life and they are not happy about it. However, you need to understand that you are not alone. In fact, according to recent surveys, around 25% of Americans suffer from some form of mental illness. So, if you have any of these symptoms, you should seek treatment immediately. There are many treatment centers and hospitals that offer excellent medical care, psychiatric care and psychological care.

There are several ways on how to come out of your mental problem. The first step is to identify its cause. It could be because of a traumatic experience you had or it could also be because of a chemical imbalance in your brain. The good news is, the first step is usually very easy. The second step is usually more challenging. The third and most challenging step is to identify the proper medical help that will help you recover your mental health.

There are several natural methods that you can follow to improve your mental health without having to consult a doctor. For example, you can take up yoga, meditation or simply learn to breathe deeply. As you practice these techniques day by day, you will notice a positive difference in your mood and in your overall well-being. If you want to get rid of your mental problem, you need to start with these simple yet effective steps.

If you are suffering from any type of mental health problem, you should never leave it untreated. Don’t just live with it. Instead, take the initiative and get the proper help that you need. Take charge of your mental health and be happy!

 

Understanding the Recovery Process

Mental Health

The Recovery Process

Addiction recovery is an individualized process and is not the same for everyone. Most addicts reach a point where they want to quit, but they are not sure how. Most alcohol or drug addicts do not know that there are many different options for treatment, including outpatient rehab, inpatient rehab, and residential rehab programs. An addiction recovery program is specifically designed to meet each person’s needs and provide them with the tools they need to stay free from addiction and lead a life without drugs or alcohol.

For most people, the term “rehab” stands for “re-use.” Many people view addiction as a disease, and while it can be a physical illness, it is also a behavior disorder that can be changed. When you are trying to quit drugs, alcohol, or other substances of abuse, your body may go through various changes as you try to overcome your addiction. You can experience cravings, mood swings, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, depression, or other symptoms that can make recovery challenging and slow down the process of your recovery. Because everyone is different and has different needs, rehabilitation clinics offer a wide range of treatment methods to help patients overcome their addictions and lead healthy lives.

There are many reasons why people enter substance abuse or addiction. Often times, individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, guilt, or even a sense of loss. However, they must realize that recovery does not come easily. It requires dedication, support, and resources to make recovery possible. Detoxification is often necessary as patients attempt to rid their bodies of the chemicals and toxins that were once in them. It is important to seek treatment if you are suffering from addiction and substance abuse because if left untreated it can result in severe health problems such as liver disease, high blood pressure, and even jail time.
Inpatient treatment is the preferred option for individuals suffering from addiction and substance abuse.

Inpatient care allows the individual to remain in the comfort of their own home and gives them the opportunity to detox safely under the watchful eye of a professional. Many times, people do not feel safe to discuss their problems in a group setting, so inpatient care is a great alternative. Doctors and professionals who specialize in addiction and substance abuse are always available to provide support. People who have recovered and been sober can be confident that when they are ready to begin their journey back into the world, they will be able to do so with the support of their friends and families.

The outpatient recovery plan follows a similar vein of care. However, unlike inpatient care, those who participate in outpatient recovery programs don’t have to stay in their homes. Instead, they are encouraged to go out and meet friends, family, and participate in local activities. Participating in this type of recovery program allows recovering addicts to live life without being locked away in a dark room, where they can only feel the withdrawal symptoms of their addiction and unable to take part in any form of recovery.

Most people who are addicted to alcohol or other substances are highly motivated to make positive changes in their lives and in the lives of others. Recovering from addiction should be fun and stress free. Finding a quality addiction treatment program can make this possible. An added bonus is a chance to gain personal insight from someone who has been through the same things as you are in recovery and is now on the road to recovery and health.

How Does Addiction Affect Healthy Living?

How Does Addiction Affect Healthy Living?

Addiction is a very complex condition, a mental disease that is manifested by uncontrollable and compulsive substance abuse even in spite of detrimental or adverse consequences. Individuals with addiction (especially severe substance abuse) have a deep focus on acquiring a certain substance(s) for the sake of having a “high”, a euphoric feeling, or to alleviate an overwhelming feeling of discomfort. The problem with substance abuse, however, is not only that these individuals suffer physical consequences as a result of their addiction; they also suffer psychological ones, such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and feelings of guilt and shame. While the physical effects of addiction can be fatal, the mental effects of addiction can take many forms, such as a decline in cognitive ability, difficulty functioning, depression, and feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness.

How To Promote Healthy Living When Struggling With Addiction

These psychological disorders are caused by the way that individuals respond to addiction and are often difficult to treat, resulting in a lifetime of coping with the symptoms of the disorders rather than the actual illnesses or conditions that they cause. However, by engaging in activities which promote healthy living (such as exercising on a regular basis, eating well, getting sufficient sleep, and avoiding potentially harmful substances), these health problems can be addressed and avoided. Health problems caused by addiction can be combated through participation in substance abuse rehabilitation programs and treatment centers, as well as through psychological counseling.

The Impact of Addiction on Mental Health

Some mental illnesses can often go undetected and untreated for long periods of time, causing devastating consequences for the individuals who suffer from it. In some cases, the individuals may even go unnoticed until they start to exhibit signs of physical illness as a result of their addiction. Unfortunately, it can be difficult for family members to realize that their loved one is suffering from this disorder, as the symptoms of substance abuse mimic those of other medical illnesses, such as high blood pressure. The good news is that many people suffer from addiction and substance abuse at some point in their lives, making it important for both family members and health care professionals to work together in order to provide for the best possible outcome for each patient. There are many drug rehab centers that offer dual diagnosis treatment for those who are suffering from mental illness and addiction.

How Does Addiction Affect Healthy Living?

The Impact of Addiction on Physical Health

In terms of physical health, addiction can affect your organs and lead you to form unhealthy eating patterns. If you’re currently suffering from an addiction, you may find that cravings for alcohol or drugs become more frequent and stronger. In some instances, a substance actually alters your appetite and makes it hard to consume enough food on a regular basis.

How Does Addiction Affect Healthy Living?

Choosing the Right Drug Rehab Center Will Improve Healthy Living

A proper recovery from an addiction will focus on both mental health and physical health. Both mental health and physical health are directly affected by the quality of your life. The more your life is impacted by an addiction, the more likely it is that you’ll slip into unhealthy behaviors as a way to numb the pain of withdrawal. The mental health of your recovery and cravings will also affect your cravings for recovery in a positive way.

Conclusion

A drug rehab center will be able to help by providing you with various resources such as group and family therapy, medical supervision in cases of medical complications, life coaching, nutrition education, sex therapy, and acupuncture to help you live a healthier life. These resources will provide you with the resources that you need to survive in your battle with your addiction. You may feel lonely and isolated at first, but you will soon find that you are not alone in your fight. It is better to face the crisis before it gets out of hand. There are many people who have found sobriety, happiness, and health after a long, hard road to recovery from their addictions. If you are facing problems with substance abuse, do not be afraid to seek help.

The Many Health Benefits of Running

Benefits of Running

The Many Health Benefits of Running

 

Regardless of whatever you think about running, the activity comes ahead with a few benefits that cannot be ignored. These benefits go a long way and help everyone make the most out of the same, provided they carry it forward regularly. So to help you get started and venture ahead into the process, we are here with a few benefits of running that you need to know about.

Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease

A regular schedule of running can reduce the risk of heart disease, and it has turned out to be a common fact. Individuals who run have a 40% lower risk of heart disease and a reduced risk of developing high blood pressure. As a result, you will be safe and far away from problems that could turn your life upside down.

Strengthens Your Joints and Bones

If you have ever come across any piece of information which states that running can weaken your joints, then you need to know that they are all rumours. In reality, running can strengthen your joints and bones, and runners have a 20% lower risk of hip replacement and osteoarthritis.

The Technology to Rewire Your Brain

Not a lot of individuals are aware of how running can rewire one’s brain. Yes, that’s right. Thanks to advanced research, people have been able to find out that running can be therapeutic and can reprogram our brain. Due to that, the activity will reduce stress and anxiety and help you get through life effortlessly.

Helps to Fight Obesity

Obesity has turned out to be a significant problem, and everyone seems to get affected by the same. But with a proper diet and a running schedule, you can bid farewell to obesity and learn to live a healthy life. As you increase your pace and run further, you will be burning calories and making progress like the way you always wanted to.

benefits

Reduces the Risk of Breast Cancer

Apart from reducing the risk of heart diseases, numerous other studies have also gone ahead to prove that running can reduce the risk of breast cancer in women by nearly 30%. By keeping your system active and running, this effortless process does more than what one could imagine.

Health and Well-being

Finally, we have the major benefit that we all need in life, health, and well-being. By being active, we will all be making progress and stand to achieve the right set of goals and objectives. By maintaining a proper balance, running brings about changes that can take us in the right direction.

Hence, that was the many benefits of running. If it motivates you to go the extra mile, then don’t think twice about the same. Just go ahead and do it.