How To Stop Taking Drugs? Let’s Find Out

How To Stop Taking Drugs

Addiction to drugs can be a hard and debilitating problem that affects millions of people all over the world. Whether you are struggling with drug addiction or just want to cut down on your drug use and don’t know How To Stop Taking Drugs? this comprehensive guide will give you helpful insights, expert advice, and steps you can take to get sober. 

Do you know? 

As per the report, The National Center for Health Statistics CDC estimates that there were 107,622 drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2021. It is an increase of almost 15% from the estimated 93,655 deaths in 2020.

There’s no doubt that these data are scary. 

Because of this, we will talk about different ways to stop using drugs, such as detox, aftercare, and inpatient drug rehab. Whether you want to stop using drugs completely, Help a friend struggling with addiction or need help after substance abuse treatment, or just cut down, this article is meant to give you practical advice and tips to help you on your way to recovery.

What is Detoxification?

Detoxification, commonly known as detox, is the initial phase of addiction treatment. It is a crucial process that involves removing harmful substances, such as drugs or alcohol, from the body. This step is essential because it helps individuals cleanse their system and manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.

During detox, the body goes through a period of adjustment as it adapts to the absence of the addictive substance. This process can be physically and emotionally challenging, and it is highly recommended to undergo detoxification under the supervision of medical professionals.

The goal of detoxification is to achieve a drug-free state while ensuring the individual’s safety and comfort throughout the process. Detox programs may vary based on the substance of abuse, the individual’s health condition, and the severity of addiction. 

Some people choose to go through detox with the help of medications, which are given to ease withdrawal symptoms and cut down on cravings.

It’s important to remember that detox is not a full treatment for addiction on its own. After detox, people should keep working on their recovery by getting involved in more therapies and support systems.

Let’s know the importance of Aftercare treatment

Aftercare is a very important part of getting over an addiction. It happens after the initial treatment, such as detox and inpatient or outpatient rehab. It provides people with ongoing support and resources to help them stay sober and avoid relapse.

Recovery is a journey that lasts for the rest of your life, and staying sober isn’t easy even after you finish a treatment program. Aftercare gives people the tools and ways to deal with problems that they need to get through life without using drugs or alcohol.

What are some components of Aftercare treatment?

Here are some essential components of aftercare treatment:

  1. Continuing Therapy: The most important parts of aftercare are individual counseling and group therapy sessions. These sessions give people ongoing emotional support and guidance, which helps them deal with problems that may be at the root of their addiction and learn healthy ways to deal with them.
  2. Support Groups: Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer a sense of community and friendship among people who have been through similar struggles. These groups give people a safe place to talk about their experiences and get help to stay sober.
  3. Educational Workshops: Aftercare programs often have educational workshops that teach people how to avoid relapse, deal with stress, and learn life skills. These workshops give people the practical tools they need to deal with problems and stay drug-free.
  4. Family Involvement: Having family members involved in aftercare treatment can help both the person who is getting better and their loved ones. Family therapy can help people talk to each other better, rebuild trust, and make their support system stronger.
  5. Medication Management: For people who need to take medicine as part of their treatment plan, aftercare may involve continuing to make sure they take the right amount and that it works.
  6. Holistic Therapies: Holistic therapies like yoga, meditation, art therapy, and mindfulness practices are often used in aftercare programs. These methods improve your overall health and help you deal with stress and cravings.
  7. Sober Living Homes: After finishing a treatment program, some people may move into sober living homes. These structured living environments give people a safe, drug-free place to keep working on their recovery while slowly getting back into society.

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What is Inpatient Drug Rehab and its benefits?

Inpatient drug rehab, also called residential treatment, is a form of intensive treatment for addiction in which people stay at a special facility for a set amount of time. This option is best for people who are very addicted or who don’t have a supportive home environment.

Key benefits of inpatient drug rehab include:

  1. 24/7 Medical and Emotional Support: Inpatient programs provide medical care and emotional support around the clock, so people can get help right away during detox and the rest of their recovery.
  2. Structured Environment: Inpatient rehab gives you a set schedule every day that includes therapy sessions, group activities, and fun things to do. This gives you a sense of stability and routine.
  3. Peer Support: Living with people who are also trying to get better builds a sense of community and understanding, which makes people feel less alone.
  4. Focused Treatment: Inpatient programs focus a lot on getting to the root causes of addiction. They do this through different types of therapy, such as individual counseling and behavioral therapies.
  5. Reduced External Triggers: By staying in a controlled environment away from the outside world’s temptations and triggers, people can focus more on their recovery.

How To Stop Taking Drugs

Now, How To Stop Taking Drugs?

Choosing to stop using drugs is a brave and life-changing choice, but it is not an easy path to take. Whether you want to stop using drugs completely or just cut down, these tips and strategies will help you on your way to recovery.

Recognize the Problem and Seek Support:

Recognizing that there is a problem with drug use is the first step toward stopping. Be honest with yourself about how much you use drugs and how it affects you. Denial can make it hard to get better, so it’s important to face the problem.

Talk about your problems with friends or family who will help you. Also, think about getting professional help from counselors, therapists, or support groups that help people recover from addiction. Surrounding yourself with people who understand you can increase your chances of success by a lot.

Set Clear Goals and Create a Plan:

Setting clear goals and making a well-thought-out plan are important parts of your road to recovery. Decide if you want to stop using drugs completely or slowly cut back. Set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals so you can keep track of your progress.

Work with a counselor or therapist to come up with a plan that is right for you. This plan could include behavioral therapy, counseling, and other treatments that have been proven to work and fit your needs and preferences.

Identify Triggers and Develop Coping Strategies:

The things, feelings, or people that make you want to use drugs are called “triggers.” To stay sober and avoid relapse, you need to know what sets you off. Stress, boredom, social situations, or bad feelings are all common triggers.

Once you know what sets you off, you can come up with healthy ways to deal with them. These strategies could include working out, meditating, making art, or spending time with friends or family who are supportive.

Build a Supportive Environment:

Creating a supportive environment is critical to your recovery. Reduce your contact with people who may enable or encourage drug use, and instead surround yourself with positive influences. Participating in support groups or group therapy sessions can give you a sense of belonging and camaraderie with others who understand your struggles.

Establish Healthy Habits:

It is critical to replace destructive habits with healthy ones when trying to overcome drug use. Concentrate on living a balanced and positive lifestyle. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep are critical for physical and mental health.

Hobbies and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment can also help you stay on track. Positive habits will not only aid in your recovery but will also improve your overall quality of life.

Celebrate Progress and Stay Patient:

Recovering from drug use is a difficult process, and setbacks are common. It is critical to recognize and celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may be. Be gentle with yourself and patient; healing takes time.

Reach Out for Professional Help:

If you’re having trouble or running into problems on your way to recovery, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Therapists, counselors, or support groups with trained members can give very helpful advice and support.

Conclusion

Quitting drugs is a brave and life-changing journey that requires determination, support, and forming good habits. By acknowledging the problem, setting clear goals, figuring out what makes you want to use, and creating a supportive environment, you can take big steps toward a healthier, drug-free life.

Don’t forget that you are not alone in this. Get help, celebrate your progress, and keep working on your recovery. Every step you take brings you closer to a better and more fulfilling future. 

Embrace change, and you’ll find the strength you need to handle any problem life throws at you.

FAQs on Treatment for Drug Abuse

Q1: What are the benefits of inpatient drug rehab over outpatient treatment?

A: Inpatient drug rehab provides 24/7 support and a controlled environment, reducing the risk of relapse and offering intensive therapy to address underlying issues.

Q2: Can detoxification be done at home?

A: While some people attempt home detox, it can be dangerous and is not recommended. Professional detox programs offer medical supervision and support to ensure safety during the process.

Q3: How long does detoxification usually last?

A: The duration of detoxification varies depending on the individual and the substances involved. It can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Q4: What can I expect during inpatient drug rehab?

A: In inpatient drug rehab, you can expect daily therapy sessions, group activities, support group meetings, and a structured routine focused on recovery.

Q5: Is aftercare necessary after completing drug rehab?

A: Yes, aftercare is essential for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse. Continued support and therapy are vital in the early stages of recovery.

Q6: Can I stop taking drugs on my own without professional help?

A: While some individuals may successfully quit drugs without professional help, seeking support from medical professionals and therapists significantly improves the chances of successful recovery.

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5 Celebrities Who Got Real About Their Addiction

5 Celebrities Who Got Real About Their Addiction - Golden Road Recovery

Alcohol or drug addiction can affect just about anyone at any time. Addiction does not discriminate against anyone. While we may view celebrities as people who have it all; money, fame, expensive houses and clothes, we often forget that they are sometimes the ones who struggle the most with drug addiction. Here we will discuss 5 celebrities who got real about their addiction as well as ways to escape from and treat an addiction.

Celebrities and Their Stories

The list of celebrities who have battled with addiction may be a shocking amount. But is it really all that surprising? Celebrities have enough money in the world to buy just about anything. They also have to deal with constant paparazzi, judgement from the world, attending major events, keeping up with their social image and social media, and working long hours at a time. It is no wonder many of them resort to using drugs or alcohol to cope with the high stress that comes with being in the public eye. Here are 5 celebrities who got real about their addiction:

1. Drew Barrymore:

This well-known celebrity who started out as the child star playing in ET, has opened up about her struggles with cocaine and alcohol. Drew was put in the spotlight at a very young age which essentially led her down the dark road of cocaine and alcohol addiction. Her mother admitted her into a rehab at the age of 14 after a suicide attempt. Drew overcame a heavy addiction within her teen years, and has since made a strong recovery and comeback into the spotlight with a positive relationship with herself and her children.

2. Demi Lovato:

Another childhood star, Demi Lovato, has opened up about their addiction with cocaine, alcohol and other drugs. This Disney Channel star was struggling with the party lifestyle, using drugs and alcohol on the daily, and was admitted into rehab for the first time at age 18. Since then, Demi has had long periods of sobriety followed by relapses. Demi also struggles with an eating disorder and has shared about their depression. In 2018, Demi was hospitalized for a drug overdose that nearly killed them. They spent 3 months in rehab after this tragic event. Today, Demi writes powerful lyrics about their journey to sobriety and the struggles with drug addiction.

3. Matthew Perry:

Matthew Perry, most commonly known as Chandler Bing from the 90’s sitcom, Friends, has shared about his experiences of chronically abusing both alcohol and prescription pills. Matthew recently came out with a new book where he shared that he was either drunk or high while filming almost every season of Friends. Matthew has sought out help several times through rehab, AA and admitting himself into different detox centers. Matthew shared through his book that he is actively sober and in addiction recovery.

4. Mac Miller:

Malcolm McCormick, otherwise known as Mac Miller, shared about his struggles with addiction through his song lyrics and through interviews. Mac Miller was a young rap star with several music albums, however he also experienced a lot of judgement, criticism and hate. Mac has shared that he regularly smoked marijuana to cope with the stress and eventually started using other drugs like codeine, and eventually his addiction led him to a drug overdose (a combination of alcohol, cocaine and fentanyl) that tragically took his life. Mac shared in several interviews that he did not like to be sober and drugs helped him to feel better in the world.

5. Lindsay Lohan:

Lindsay Lohan has been in the spotlight since staring in the iconic film Parent Trap. Lindsay has had a long journey with substance abuse and addiction, leading to multiple DUI’s, jail time, and several trips to rehabs. Lindsay has stated that she has been sent to rehab so many times that she could “write a book on it.” This well-known celebrity has struggles with mental health and used drugs recreationally for most of her stardom life. She now has made a comeback, starting in a Netflix original movie, Falling for Christmas, and has shared about her sobriety and experience with drug addiction.

Escaping From Addiction

Addiction of any kind can be a scary and dark place that may feel impossible to escape, but there is always help available to you. While drugs and alcohol may feel like the only answer, it certainly is not. Substance abuse and addiction is typically always correlated with some sort of mental health issues. For those who were never taught healthy ways of coping with symptoms of anxiety or depression or overcoming traumatic events, drugs and alcohol seems to be the easiest and quickest remedy for alleviating the deep pain and sorrow. For others, it is simply for the social aspect, and with all the fame these celebrities experience, it is just a part of the lifestyle. Society does not make it easy for those struggling with addiction. Escaping addiction is crucial for anyone battling the demons of drugs and alcohol and fortunately, there are many different options for addiction treatment.

Treatment

The most common form of addiction treatment is rehab. Rehab can be both inpatient or outpatient and offers therapeutic support focused solely on addiction and mental health. There are also community-based group programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous that offer the 12-step program to learn to the make amends with your demons, forgive those you have wronged, and use faith to find the light through sober living.

How Golden Road Recovery Can Help 

f you or someone you know if battling the struggles of addiction and wanting to escape from it, Golden Road Recovery can help. Golden Road Recovery is a luxurious rehab facility that offers evidence-based therapies with a more holistic approach, meaning incorporating the mind, body and spirit to help treat your addiction. Please call (877) 372-0536 to learn more about the services provided at Golden Road Recovery and start your journey to sobriety today.

Citations

Today. “Drew Barrymore Opens up About Her Cocaine use, Rocky Relationship with Mom.” https://www.today.com/popculture/drew-barrymore-opens-about-her-cocaine-use-relationship-mom-t137463  ​​Retrieved 14, September 2018

US. “Demi Lovato’s Struggle with Addiction in Their Own Words.” https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/demi-lovatos-struggle-with-addiction-in-her-own-words/ Retrieved 23, August 2022

People. “Matthew Perry Opens Up About His Addiction Journey with a New Memoir: “I’m Grateful to be Alive.” https://people.com/tv/matthew-perry-opens-up-about-addiction-new-memoir/ Retrieved 19, October 2022

ET. “Everything Mac Miller Has Said About Drug Abuse, Depression and Death.” https://www.etonline.com/everything-mac-miller-has-said-about-drug-abuse-depression-and-death-109259 Retrieved 7, September, 2018

CNN Entertainment. “Lindsay Lohan Talks Drugs, Booze, Rehab, and Sex.” https://www.cnn.com/2013/05/05/showbiz/lindsay-lohan-rehab/index.html Retrieved 6, May 2013

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Using Health Insurance for Addiction Treatment

Health Insurance for Addiction treatment

Let’s face it, addiction treatment can be costly; even those who know little of the ins and outs of substance abuse treatment can assume this when they look at their own medical bills. And for those seeking recovery, it remains a serious barrier to treatment.

Approximately 10 percent of those who fit the criteria for substance use disorder ever receive treatment and one of the major reasons for this is the price tag of treatment and the belief that treatment was not financially feasible.1 

According to data taken recently, the cost of a residential inpatient rehab program can range anywhere from $5,000 to $80,00 dollars with the cost of detox is $560 on average a day.2 All in all, the out-of-pocket expenses of addiction treatment are not something most people have laying around.

According to a recent study, 24 percent of adults surveyed where unsure whether their insurance would cover mental health expenses like substance use disorder the same way that it covers their regular health expenses.3

If you are looking to start addiction treatment you may be surprised to learn that many Americans can save thousands of dollars by using their insurance for addiction treatment. Read on to discover more about the role of insurance in addiction recovery including what will be covered, what kind of insurance works best. If you are also wondering: “How do I verify my insurance,” we will also be discussing that at the very end.

Insurance Coverage for Addiction Treatment

Substance use disorder also called addiction, is classified as a mental disorder and under currently law is covered by most health insurance plans in the United States­. But it wasn’t always that way.

Before the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity Act of 2008 was passed, providers of health insurance were not required to cover mental health treatments they do medical procedures under their plans.4

Now a days, the likelihood that insurance will cover a portion of your substance abuse treatment is much higher. Here are some of the costs your insurance will likely cover5

  • Behavioral health treatments including psychotherapy and counseling
  • Inpatient programs for mental and behavioral health treatment
  • Substance abuse treatment which may include inpatient detox, inpatient rehab, and outpatient treatment

What Is Mental Health Parity?

Mental health parity laws mandate that insurance companies must provide similar coverage for mental healthcare treatment as they do for physical health services.6

Parity laws protect individuals with mental health and substance abuse treatment needs from being unfairly discriminated against by their insurance provider and protects employees from being discriminated against by their employers for seeking treatment.

Who Is Fully Protected Under the Laws of The Affordable Act?

  • People working for private sector employers with 51 or more workers6
  • Smaller businesses that restructured their insurance plans after the Affordable Care Act passed into law6
  • Those with healthcare plans being offered through the health insurance marketplace
  • People receiving Medicaid (state-funded) health insurance

Who Is Unlikely Receive Healthcare Benefits According to Parity Laws?

  • Those with healthcare plans made specifically for retirees
  • Individuals who work for private sector companies with fewer than 51 employees who have not updated their healthcare plans after the Affordable Care Law went into effect6

Benefits of Having Insurance

You Will Save Money

Going through your insurance to cover the costs of addiction treatment could end up saving you thousands of dollars–especially if your rehab center is in your insurance’s network. In fact, health insurance plans generally cover between 60-90 percent of expenses after your deductible is paid and plans purchased in the healthcare marketplace cannot place a yearly or lifetime limit on how much they will cover as long as it is deemed an essential health benefit.6,7

You Can Afford to Go to Treatment Longer

Nobody wants to stay in treatment forever, but recovery takes time. Depending on how severe your substance abuse issue is, having the financial flexibility of insurance to continue treatment as needed can be a blessing in a time of need.

Increases Your Likelihood of Success

As out of pocket expenses rise, many people choose to shorten or discontinue their treatment. A person may, for example, decide to go home after a medical detox program instead of continuing treatment due to lack of funds. Without the training and resources, they would gain in rehab, however, they are likely to fall back into their old cycles of use.

Conversely, a person that has addiction treatment insurance is more likely to be able to afford quality detox and rehabilitation services which will enable them to get the help that they need and with enough effort reach long-term recovery and sobriety.

Types of Insurance commonly accepted

While most insurance companies provide coverage for substance abuse and mental health, it is not always easy finding treatment that is in network. If you live in a rural area away from a major city, you may have to travel far–even out of state to find a quality program compatible with your insurance.

Another important factor is insurance type. Depending on the way your plan is structured, you have more­–or les flexibility when choosing a substance abuse treatment plan.

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)

HMO plans limit their coverage to providers within their network who have agreed to their special rates. For this reason, it can be difficult to find a suitable addiction rehab center in network near you.

EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization)

EPOs similarly to HMOs, only cover providers within their network but their networks being larger than HMO’s can provide wider coverage and can even span several states.

PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)

PPOs provide the greatest amount of flexibility for those seeking substance abuse treatment. While their premiums tend to run on the higher side, they make up for it with lower co-pays, and coverage for out of network care.

How to verify insurance for addiction treatment

Verifying your insurance for addiction treatment is easier than ever as many rehab centers have e-forms to verify insurance on their websites. For those more technically challenged, you can also call your local rehab center to verify your insurance coverage as well. And if you want to be extra sure, you can also call your insurance and find out who is in network from them.

For those that require a referral from their primary care physician, finding an in-network substance abuse treatment center could be as easy as talking to your doctor.

Get Help Today

Looking for an effective way to overcome drug or alcohol abuse? Golden Road Recovery is an inpatient drug and alcohol rehab center in Los Angeles, California. To learn more about how we can help, call us today at (877) 372-0536.

Citations

Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. (2016). Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed tables. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Average cost of drug rehab [2022]: By type, state & more. NCDAS. (2022, April 6). Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://drugabusestatistics.org/cost-of-rehab/

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Few Americans aware of their rights for Mental Health Coverage. American Psychological Association. Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2014/05/mental-health-coverage

Baumgartner, J. C., Aboulafia, G. N., & McIntosh, A. (2020, April 3). The ACA at 10: How has it impacted Mental Health Care? Commonwealth Fund. Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2020/aca-10-how-has-it-impacted-mental-health-care

Mental health and substance abuse health coverage options. HealthCare.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://www.healthcare.gov/coverage/mental-health-substance-abuse-coverage/

Parity of Mental Health and Substance Use Benefits with Other Benefits: Using Your Employer-Sponsored Health Plan to Cover Services. (n.d.). Retrieved September 18, 2022, from https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ebsa/laws-and-regulations/laws/mental-health-parity/understanding-parity-a-guide-to-resources-for-families-and-caregivers.pdf

Health coverage protects you from high medical costs. HealthCare.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://www.healthcare.gov/why-coverage-is-important/protection-from-high-medical-costs/

Essential health benefits – glossary. Glossary | HealthCare.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved September 17, 2022, from https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/essential-health-benefits/

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The Best Ways to Ask for Help with Addiction

asking for help when addicted to drugs

We Understand the pain of being an addict and the problems they face in asking for the help. Asking for the help when you are an addict is not an easy task and under this tremendous pressure people are likely to fall pray to addiction and give up. There are many instances when people have drugs in their hands, and they think about getting the help to regard Drug Abuse as well at them same time. But in reality, Getting the Help When You are an Addict is not difficult after all. Below mentioned are the few ways you can ask for help when you are a drug addict.

  1. Collect your thoughts and write an email to the right person. Because once you do that , there is no turning back
  2. Take an appointment with a Drug Rehab Professional. Meet him and pour your heart out in front of him
  3. There are a lot of online communities where you can connect with people going through the same stuff and with professionals as well
  4. Look for someone who has suffered from the same addiction problem. Ask them what it was like to ask for  the help for the first time.
  5. Everyone has that trustworthy friend in his/her life. Go and meet that friend and discuss your problem. We are sure you will come out with some solution

What is Addiction?

When we think of drug addiction, we often think of the worst forms of it. It can be easy to judge, or ridicule someone for having an addiction as we seem to forget that substance use disorder is a mental health disorder and often times requires treatment. According to statistics from Addiction Center, nearly 21 million Americans have at least one addiction and yet as little as 10% of those battling this disorder ever seek treatment. If addiction affects such a large amount of the nation’s population, why are so few people seeking treatment?

Also Read: The Benefits of Physical Exercise during Substance Abuse Recovery

Removing Labels by Educating

Addiction/Substance Abuse disorder, just like most mental health disorders, have several misconceptions and stereotypes that most people seem to believe, unless properly educated. We live in a society that loves to place labels on others, especially negative ones. We hear terms such as druggy, lowlife, junkie, etc. to describe those with addictions before we even try to learn what may have led them to that lifestyle.

When we place such negative labels and assume the worst of those who struggle with addiction, it is not hard to imagine why they avoid asking for help. But what if we, as a society, educated ourselves on substance use disorders and addiction and the best ways to provide help and resources to those battling this disorder? What if we collectively build a safe space for these individuals to ask for and seek out the help they deserve?

How Do I Ask for Help with Addiction?

If you feel your addiction has taken over and is controlling your life, it IS time to ask for help. Admitting you have a problem is the first step. Acknowledge your addiction and ask for help. If you have someone in your life who you can talk to about your addiction (family member, friend, coworker, colleague, etc.) reach out. If anything, this person can guide you in the right direction as to where you can get the necessary help for your recovery.

Of course, however, we do not all have a support system in our lives that we can reach out to for help. Another option may be entering into one of the many addiction rehab centers that can be found a location near you. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA] National Helpline (1-800-622-4357) can assist with locating the best rehab centers near you. There are rehab centers located all throughout the nation and each have different financial payment options. SAMHSA can help you find an affordable program for your specific addiction.

SAMHSA can also help to locate other Addiction Treatment Centers or Programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or opioid addiction centers. Sites such as Addiction Center and National Institute of Drug Abuse also serve as excellent resources to gather more information about your specific addiction and options for treatment and recovery.

How to Talk to Someone with an Addiction

Addiction holds many negative connotations, therefore when talking to someone with an addiction it is crucial that we remain nonjudgmental and meet the individual where they are in their recovery and readiness to change process. Our goal should be to provide them with a safe space to speak about their addiction and provide them with resources to receive help. We want them to feel listened to and heard and not blamed, shamed, or criticized about their addiction. We must have compassion and a desire to understand the person with an addiction as this can help build trust which can eventually lead to providing more support and resources for treatment.

Remember, Addiction is a Disorder and a disorder is an illness that disrupts normal life. Substance use disorder is a mental health disorder and most likely there are co-occurring disorders involved such as anxiety or depression. When talking to someone with an addiction, allow the person involved to do most of the talking. Try to understand their story and reasons that may have led them to this addiction. Listen to understand, not just to respond.

Tips for Helping Someone with an Addiction

Unless you have dealt with an addiction yourself, it can feel difficult to try to provide help with someone battling this disorder. Remember that all you need to do is help them find the professional help they need. Simply start by educating yourself on substance use disorders. This will allow you to begin gathering information on how to be there for someone with an addiction as well as different addiction treatment centers based on the individual’s specific addiction. You can use the site SAMHSA to locate some of the best rehab centers or other treatment programs near the individual with the addiction. It is important to remain compassionate and kind while engaging with someone with an addiction, however boundaries should still be in place. Addiction is a very serious illness and can cause a person to act in ways that are out of normal character. Setting boundaries will show the individual that you are here to help them seek help and not enable the addiction further.

What to Avoid when Talking to a Loved One About Addiction

When talking to a loved one about their addiction, you should avoid:

  • Using blaming or criticizing language.
  • Making the individual feel threatened or as if they are in any sort of trouble.
  • Pushing or forcing them into treatment.

Alcohol Use Disorder is a very serious condition and can sometimes lead to fetal outcomes. If you are battling an addiction or know someone who is, contact us now at  1-877-372-0536 to learn about a variety of recovery resources available to you. Nobody should have to go through addiction alone!

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What to expect coming into an inpatient treatment facility?

What is Inpatient Treatment?

Refers to medical treatment that is provided in a hospital or facility that requires at least one overnight stay. With outpatient treatment, patients receive medical services performed in an office-based setting or clinic. Roughly 21 million Americans have at least one addiction, but only about 10% of them receive treatment. Here’s five things you can expect when checking into an inpatient rehab facility.

  1. First, you will be searched upon entry of the facility, both body and luggage. Before you fill out any paperwork, a male or female staff member is required to do a physical search of your clothes and check to make sure no drugs or paraphernalia are being smuggled in. This is for the safety of both the patient admitting and the current residents of the house. Next, the clothes you packed will be put through the washer and dryer. Any dangerous contraband and personal items including cell phone, keys, wallet etc. will be placed into your personal bin, which is locked inside the staff office.
  2. Then you will begin signing the intake paperwork which includes various consents to treatment, financial agreements, medical assessments, program rules and expectations, and releases of information for any friends or family members. Legally, these documents must be signed during the time of admission in order to participate in the program.
  3. Next, you will be allowed one “safe call” to either a friend or family, to let them know you made it in safely. You will be placed on a 3-day blackout period which means no phone privileges. Most treatment centers do not allow cell phone use, house phone is available during allotted times. This policy is in place, so patients are not distracted by outside issues while they receive treatment.
  4. After you have finished intake, staff will show you to the room you are assigned to. At first, you will usually be put in the detox room so staff can monitor your symptoms more closely. After you complete the detox portion of the program, generally 3-5 days, when you feel more stable you will move to a residential room where you will stay for the duration of your stay.
  5. Within the first 24 hours of admission, you will be seen by the nurse for another medical assessment than to the Doctor’s office for a complete physical and full medical and mental evaluation. The doctor will prescribe standard medications for discomfort along with a 5-7-day medication taper to slowly help you detox. The doctor may order labs and tests based on your health history.

When all is said and done, you will be encouraged to rest, eat, and drink lots of water. In the first couple days you may feel intense withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and discomfort, which is normal for any kind of medical detox. Once your body starts to recover and you finish detoxing, you will meet with your primary therapist and case manager. At residential, you will be expected to attend all group activities including psychotherapy groups, drug and alcohol education, individual therapy, 12 step meetings, yoga/meditation, breathwork, relapse prevention, case management, daily living skills, exercise and chores.

Also Read: How a 12 Step Program Can Help You in Recovery?

A lot of times people do not stay sober on their first attempt, which is why it is highly recommended to follow the treatment plan your case manager determines based on your needs.

The clinical team will always strongly suggest you enroll in an Outpatient Program and stay in a sober living environment. 30 days in treatment will not cure a life-long battle with drugs or alcohol, it will get you physically sober and mentally stronger. The journey to recovery never ends, you will need to treat this disease every day which in the rooms they say, “it’s a daily reprieve”. By surrounding yourself with people that are positive influences and support your new lifestyle in time, you will begin to feel a sense of safety in the community of 12 step programs. There are many other non 12 step recovery modalities which some people prefer rather than anonymous programs, which are also available.

Let’s get real here, I often hear “relapse is a part of recovery”, which essentially is true however, it doesn’t have to be. Getting sober is easy, most addicts and alcoholics know what it feels like to be sick. Most wake-up every day, sweating, shaking, ready to throw up feeling sick and tired of being sick and tired. It gets to a point where you feel as if your underwater and coming up for air is getting drunk or using, trapped within a prison of your own distorted thinking. There are lots of ways we can “get sober”, whether you do it for family, court system, significant other, kids or yourself which they say “whatever gets you here” but I was always taught, “it’s what keeps you coming back”. When you finally hit that point to where the pain is greater than the fear of changing, you’re ready to take the next step. For many of us this includes checking into detox. Most require the structure, safety and support that Inpatient Treatment offers. We may have used alone, and so the isolation of addiction creates however, we cannot recover alone. Many of us have tried to do this on our own on either a couch, mom’s house, county jail, 51/50, sitting in a car, in a garage, whatever your bottom looks like try and find the similarities rather than the differences. Because pain is the touchstone of spiritual growth.

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