Category: Treatment

An Alternative to 12 Step

An Alternative to 12 Step

Articles, Australia, Education, International, Malaysia, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

Coming to the realization that you have an addiction is a painful time. It brings feelings of defeat and shame. To take the next step and seek treatment is still another traumatic period. It is a huge leap for many people to recognize that their addiction is beyond them. And that they now require professional help. For a long time, this decision generally meant turning to Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Or any one of many 12 step programs of recovery. These programs have worked for many people as still work for many. But for a large number of people facing the decision to seek treatment and recovery, the language of “higher powers” and other religious overtones associated with 12 step recovery are a huge stumbling block to getting help. There are real and meaningful alternatives to 12 step.

DARA Drug and Alcohol Rehab offers a range to treatment options all of which are grounded in medical science and are alternatives to the standard 12 step model of recover. To start, DARA works with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This is a scientifically based system which works with the ways we learn to think and experience our own emotions.

CBT teaches people how to identify thought patterns and habits of experiencing emotions and feelings which lead to negative and destructive patterns of action. By learning to understand how thoughts and feelings are tied into destructive the behaviors addiction. People can learn new ways of experiencing things that are more productive. In this way, patients learn to manage life without the use of substances. The goal of CBT is to get to the underlying cause of addictive behaviors and essentially unlearn those behaviors.

CBT is complemented with Group Therapy. In guided group therapy patients learn new and healthy ways of dealing with others. This involves learning to identify their own habitual reactions to others and the types of social complications which lead to problems. As group therapy is a guided program. Patients can learn to better navigate the social world which plays a part in their addiction and learn to interact socially without the danger of relying substances.

Still more, DARA offers patients individual counseling. Taking into consideration that each patient comes to treatment as a unique person, DARA treats the individual needs of each patient. Working along with the other treatment programs, individual counseling guides patients through past experiences which may have led to their addiction. Individual counseling assists patients in understanding the root of their emotional struggles which are bound up in their addiction. This process empowers patients to understand themselves in more positive ways.

All of the treatment programs at DARA are grounded in a guided by the latest science in drug addiction. These programs are all directed by trained and certified staff. Again, for some people the 12 step model may work just fine. At DARA, we offer an alternative treatment option that addresses all of the same issues, problems, and complexities with a program of treatment. This treatment avoids the aspects of 12 step that many patients find off-putting. Making the decisions to seek treatment for an addiction is a traumatic process. DARA understands that there are people who need treatment options which speak to their specific needs and concerns.   

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment.

Grief and Loss During Recovery

Grief and Loss During Recovery

Articles, Australia, Education, International, LGBTQ, Malaysia, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

Recovery is a difficult process. When entering recovery you may spend some time in an in-patient facility and be very routine and scheduled, but eventually you must get back to the real world. Hopefully when you do you will be better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way, but there are some things that no one can prepare for in life. If you are in recovery and someone passes away then it may be tempting to deal with the pain by going back to your addiction. Death is a stressful occurrence and stress is very likely to lead to relapse if the person is not prepared. If you experience grief and loss during recovery there are some things that can help you cope and stay strong in the recovery process.

Additionally, grief is not limited to death. Any situation that causes you to feel overwhelmed and helpless can result in trauma, even if no physical harm occurs.

When grief and loss does occur in recovery, your subjective emotional experiences determine how you feel about the given event. This can produce many emotions and reactions. The symptoms of traumatic shock are different for everyone, but include shock, disbelief, anger, mood swings, fatigue, fear, muscle tension, insomnia, and many more. Each person will experience this type of trauma differently. Unfortunately this is when many turn back to their addictions in order to escape what is happening. This does not really create an escape, but does dull the pain that is being felt. This is not helpful, especially if you are trying to stay away from your addiction of choice. As part of recovery we must face traumatic events head on in order to be able to move forward. Fortunately, once the trauma is resolved than it no longer holds the same importance it did.

To deal with these traumatic happenings we must explore them. This is often done as part of individual therapy. While the current grief and loss or traumatic events should be the focus as the past needs to stay in the past. Many will also need to work through the trauma that lead up to addiction. There are a few basic tips that can be applied to all situations, but specifics will need to be discussed with your support system and therapist.

One way that all trauma can be helped is by focusing on the positive. Trauma, grief and loss in the past has likely made you stronger and taught you various lessons. Though these were tough lessons to learn, you will never need to relearn them. Take the strength inside you and use it to create long term recovery. Learn to take care of yourself. Part of recovery is putting your needs first. This does not mean you should isolate yourself or be completely selfish, but it does mean that your personal care and well-being must be moved to the forefront. Dealing with trauma can be exhausting so you need to practice good self-care. Take time to relax and unwind each day. Also make sure you are getting some exercise. Trauma often brings on depression and this can be combatted with self-care, rest, talking it out, and if necessary, medication.

No matter what, remember that if you do stumble you can get back up and start again. As long as you do not quit you can end up successful. The key point to remember is that once the trauma is resolved it does not hold the same importance as before. You are free to move on in life and recovery. So don’t let your life’s trauma continue controlling your life, get started today.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment.

well-being

Finding New Ways to Well-Being through Addiction Recovery

Articles, Education, International, LGBTQ, Malaysia, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

When an individual begins taking drugs, an artificial high is created. Synthetically over-stimulating the brain’s neurotransmitters, substantially elevates dopamine levels. An unnatural state delivers unadulterated pleasure and reward, thus the motivation to repeat the act is desired.

This manufactured way of experiencing bliss & enjoyment, means the human body naturally reduces the organic level of dopamine held within. In the early stages of recovery an addict may say they feel flat. A negative cycle has been induced within the body. Rehabilitation begins to turn this cycle in the opposite direction.

Creating a state of wellbeing takes time and effort. Dopamine levels need to elevate naturally, to enable a person in recovery to get to know their own way to bring enjoyment and contentment into their lives.

Nothing will ever feel as good as the first time. Even when Sober. A Human Being always changes and adapts.

What is Well-Being?

The dictionary definition of Well-Being is:

A good or satisfactory condition of existence; a state characterized by

health, happiness, and prosperity; welfare. Dictionary.com 

The UK Government published a framework from which it believes wellbeing flourishes. The Recovery program at DARA, enables clients to build wellbeing as part of their addiction recovery.

Connect:

One key element of wellbeing is connection. Developing an ability to build relationships in various ways and connect with those around us on one or multiple levels, helps us to feel good.

At DARA, our community is filled with clients from all over the world. The Clientele is consistently changing and growing. Individuals are in different stages of rehabilitation. Learning about others’ lives and forming bonds through common interest, helps to deliver connection. 

Give:

I remember one Saturday evening, cooking and serving street food, at a homeless shelter in my town.

At the end of the evening, a rough sleeper, came up to me. He was having trouble doing up the zip on his coat.

He was dirty, unkempt. Hair matted around his dirt smeared face in great grey lumps. His beard long and straggly.

An alcoholic, so affected by this affliction, he could no longer speak properly. His words grunts and sounds. His actions showed me he needed help.

As I leant forward – the smell of being unwashed, rested in my nostrils. I nearly pulled back.

I struggled with the zipper.

The zip had seen better days. Was extremely grubby. But, with a bit of jiggling, I began to loosen it.

It was a cold winter evening and I found myself, pulling it up tight and close to his chin. Exactly the way I did with my children when they were little.

The caring element in me had been invoked and when I looked into his eyes, the appreciation there from my care, showed in his face. I felt good. It had only been a small act. Yet it’s one I’ve never forgotten. Always reminding me of the importance to give without expectation. What I received that night, was precious.

You can find your own way to give. Challenge yourself by trying out different things. Discover what makes you feel good naturally. Support others whilst in rehab, during their recovery. See how it makes you feel.

Be Active:

Within our recovery program, exercise is considered a very important element to client well-being. Every weekday morning. Come rain or shine. Clients are expected to participate, unless agreement has been made for clinical or medical reasons.

From Yoga mat to pool, badminton court to gym. There is something for everyone. Getting up and moving at the start of the day, can put you physically and mentally in a good frame of mind for the rest of it.

DARA provides each client with a Personal Trainer. Together with the client, the Personal Trainer then develops a fitness plan. This helps them build strength and challenge themselves as they progress.

Motivation is built in the doing and so participation is key. You don’t have to like it or enjoy it initially but consistent, repetitive practice, will enable enthusiasm and motivation to gradually lift and you can explore what you do like and add it to your aftercare plan.

Keep Learning:

Brain training has become synonymous with our modern world and at DARA we like to help you train your brain, whilst developing your knowledge and expanding awareness.

Daily we deliver a psycho-educational program to elevate client awareness. From Co-Dependency through to Neuroscience of Addiction. We work with you to help you understand your personal history and addiction from a more receptive and pro-active frame of mind. Our program is CBT based (cognitive behavioural therapy) and will help you to challenge your thinking through the process of your stay.

Be Mindful:

Mindfulness is a useful tool.

It’s about taking a moment to become aware of what is going on around you or in you.

Being situated on the beautiful Thai island of Koh Chang, our facility enables you to immerse yourself in nature. Deliberate on a daily basis, your addiction and recovery, whilst being accompanied by glorious sea views, stunning sunsets and sounds of the jungle.

One of the tools you’ll be shown how to do, during your rehabilitation, is to scan your body using mindfulness. You’ll be shown how to listen and become intuitive to its needs, as you work through the challenges which have brought you to DARA.

Finding new ways to well-being through addiction recovery, may be challenge but residing within a framework and facility, whose sole purpose is to assist you in doing so, could be one of the best investments of your time.

DARA is here to show you how and to help you make the change. 

Would you like to find a new way to well-being?  CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment.

Managing Cravings In Recovery

Managing Cravings In Recovery – Part Three

Articles, Australia, Education, International, LGBTQ, Malaysia, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

This part-three of a three-part series about how to manage cravings.

In parts one and two of this series, we talked about cravings and identifying triggers. Now, let’s talk about what you can do to work through cravings when they happen so you can avoid a relapse.

10 Things You Can Do To Manage A Craving When It Happens
  1. Call one of your friends in recovery. Talk to them about what is going on. See if they can meet you for a cup of coffee so you can be in the company of someone you trust until the craving passes.
  1. Get involved in a task that takes your mind off the craving. Cleaning house is a great option. When you throw yourself into a project (no matter how big or small), you will get your mind going in a different direction. Before long, you will see that the craving has passed.
  1. Turn on some music. That being said, make sure it is music that doesn’t remind you of the past when you were using drugs or alcohol or engaging in your sexual addiction. Listening to the wrong music can actually make your craving worse. Take the time to make a playlist of uplifting music that you associate with recovery and empowerment so you can crank it up when you are having a weak moment. Music is a great way to get your mind off the craving.
  1. Go for a brisk walk. Walking is an awesome meditative exercise that gets the endorphin’s going. It will put you out into nature and get you out of your head. Walk for at least thirty minutes. You will work off your nervous energy and before long, you will notice the craving has passed.
  1. If you are a spiritual person, pray. Ask the God of your understanding to remove the craving from you. In addition to asking your Higher Power for relief from the craving, give thanks for all that is going good in your life.
  1. Make a gratitude list. Take the time to write about all the things in your life that you are grateful for. Really think about it – don’t just rush through it. Remember that you have so many beautiful things in your life that you appreciate. Remind yourself that all of those things could be taken away from you in an instant if you give into that craving.
  1. Help someone else. This is a great way to get out of your head and into action. Maybe you have a friend who has been talking about cleaning out an overstuffed closet. Call them up and tell them you are going to come and pitch in. Being of service to someone else will help you push past that craving and make it to the other side.
  1. Watch your favorite television show or get into a good movie. Cravings typically don’t last very long. If you turn on the TV and get involved with a good program, by the time it is over, the craving will probably have passed.
  1. Keeping a journal is a great way to connect with yourself and do a self-assessment. You can write about how the craving feels and what led up to the craving itself. Journaling helps you realize things about yourself and your life that you might not otherwise see. You may have a greater insight into why you are suddenly experiencing a craving, so you can be mindful of how you can avoid a similar situation in the future.
  1. Meditation is a beautiful spiritual practice that can help you find relief from anxiety, depression and – you guessed it – cravings. Though it may be uncomfortable to sit quietly with yourself at first, meditate anyway. Try to mediate for at least thirty minutes. You will experience a sense of calm, tranquility and relaxation by the end of your meditation time and you will find that magically your craving has dissipated.

Remember, cravings are a normal part of the recovery process. You don’t have to give into them. When you work through a craving, you will experience a victory in recovery. The next time you have a craving, it will be much easier to navigate.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment.

Managing Cravings In Recovery

Managing Cravings In Recovery – Part Two

Articles, Australia, Education, International, LGBTQ, Malaysia, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

This part-two of a three-part series about how to manage cravings.

In part one of this series, we explained what cravings were and highlighted the fact that they are a normal part of the recovery process. In this portion of the series, we will explain triggers in greater detail.

Understanding External Triggers

External triggers are things happening outside of yourself that prompt you to experience a craving. Remember, a craving is an intense, urgent, or abnormal desire or longing to use drugs or alcohol.

Here are some examples of external triggers:

Going into a convenience store and seeing someone buy beer may trigger you to want to drink alcohol.

Driving down a street where you used to score drugs may prompt you to have a craving for that particular drug.

Listening to music that reminds you of a time when you used to use drugs or drink alcohol can trigger you to want to get high or drunk.

Seeing a person you used to drink or drug with can cause a craving.

Money can be a trigger for some people.

These are just a few examples of external triggers that can bring about an intense craving. This is because seeing or hearing certain sights or sounds can trigger the brain to have a memory associated with drugs or alcohol. These memories will cue the brain to want to experience the sensations it once did when it was intoxicated or high on certain drugs.

Internal Triggers Are Powerful Mechanisms

While external triggers are things that happen outside of your body, internal triggers happen inside the body. Internal triggers are emotions, thoughts, memories, and sensations you experience within yourself. They can be just as powerful as external triggers.

Here are some examples of internal triggers:

When you have a memory you have of a time when you had fun while you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You might experience a craving.

Depression can trigger you to want to get high or drunk to escape intense feelings of sadness.

Anxiety can motivate you to want to use drugs or alcohol to calm the experience of panic or distress.

Low self-esteem can make you want to get high or drunk so you will feel better about the way you interact with the world.

Internal triggers are like external triggers. They trigger a memory in the mind that brings about a craving. Although it might seem more difficult to avoid internal triggers because they seem to have a mind of their own (literally!). You can change your mind and think about something else when the trigger arises.  

Avoiding Triggers Keeps Cravings At A Minimum

You can experience cravings when you are feeling good because you want to celebrate how well you have been doing. Conversely, you might find that cravings are the most powerful when you are feeling depressed or when something tragic has happened in your life. You might even feel cravings for no particular reason at all. Whatever the situation may be, the best option you have for avoiding a relapse is to avoid triggers as best you can.

By identifying triggers, you can keep cravings at a minimum. For example, if you associate a particular person with getting high or drunk, stay away from that person. If going to the ATM is a trigger for you, only get cash from the bank. You know you will be triggered by beer at a convenience store, pay for your gas at the pump and don’t go inside. If depression is a trigger for you, do what you can to take care of your mental health so that you can ward off depression. When certain memories cause cravings, change your thoughts.

It is better to do what you can to manage your life so that you can avoid cravings at all costs. However, if you do experience a craving. There are certain things you can do to overcome them and keep your recovery in check.

Be sure to read Managing Cravings In Recovery – Part Three to learn how you can overcome cravings when they happen. 

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment.