Category: Alternative Treatment

Substance Abuse Terminology

Knowing or being someone with a substance abuse disorder can be scary. A doctor may diagnose an actual disorder or may say you are showing warning signs or symptoms that could easily lead to addiction. This can be confusing and concerning. Some of the most common terms used are addiction, physical dependence, and tolerance. Each of these terms will be described below so a better understanding can be gained.

Tolerance

Tolerance is a term you will hear often in conjunction with addiction, but tolerance can occur for those who are simply taking medications over long periods of time. It occurs when a person no longer responds to a drug in the way they did at first. This means it will take a higher dose of the drug to achieve the same effect. This can happen when the drug is legal or illegal and no matter what purpose the drug first served. Tolerance is why people with substance abuse issues need more and more of a drug to get the ‘high’ they want.

Physical Dependence (Physical and Emotional)

Dependence is also a term that is often related to substance use disorder. It means that when a person stops using a drug or medication the body goes through a withdrawal period. Withdrawal is a group of physical or mental symptoms that can range from mild to life threatening. This can occur with anything from caffeine to opioids or alcohol. Many people who take prescription medications over a long period of time will become dependent so that when they go off the medication, they may experience withdrawal. To avoid withdrawal symptoms many medications can be removed over time, a weaning of sorts. People who are dependent are not necessarily addicted, but dependence can lead to addiction.

Addiction

In contrast to tolerance and dependence, addiction is a disease. However, like tolerance and dependence, addiction can result from repeatedly taking drugs or drinking alcohol. To clarify, if a person keeps taking drugs, unable to stop in spite of negative consequences, this is addiction or substance use disorder, but a person can be dependent or tolerance can be present without addiction.

Signs of Addiction

If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have an addiction then there are several signs that may point you in the right direction. Signs of addiction typically include behavioral and physical signs. These will be shared below.

Behavioral Signs

Behavioral signs are those that involve a person’s outward relations with the world. These can include, but are not limited to:

• Obsessive thoughts and actions – Getting and taking more of the drug becomes a priority.
• Disregard of harm – In spite of causing mental and physical distress to themselves and others, the addiction continues.
• Loss of control – Even when the person wants to stop, they cannot.
• Denial or hiding of drug use – When confronted the person will deny or downplay their addiction.

Physical Dependence Signs

Physical dependence signs are those that manifest as side effects of drug abuse, during an overdose, or even as a result of withdrawal. It can be difficult to identify physical dependence signs, but those that are severe will require immediate medical treatment. Even in withdrawal, the body is adjusting, but it can be physically dangerous. General physical dependence signs can include:

• Enlarged or small pupils
• Weight changes – loss or gain
• Bloodshot eyes
• Insomnia
• Poor physical coordination
• Looking unkempt or having an unusual body odor
• Slurred speech

These signs may not be present with all addicts or with all drugs, but they are very common among users. Different signs may occur if the person is overdosing and if these signs and symptoms appear, call for immediate medical help.

• Drowsiness or trouble walking
• Loss of consciousness
• Agitation
• Aggression or violent behavior
• Delusions or hallucinations
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea and vomiting

If the person does not have an addiction, but is having withdrawal symptoms due to dependence there will still be side effects. These may include:

• Shakiness, jumpiness, and trembling
• Loss of appetite with nausea and vomiting
• Depression, insomnia, and fatigue
• Headaches and fever
• Confusion and hallucinations
• Seizures

When someone is in the grips of addiction, they may not recognize the symptoms and signs. However, this does not mean they are not being affected. Some of the psychological signs may include:

• Sudden mood swings and anxiousness
• Inattentiveness and lack of motivation
• Irritability
• Withdrawing mentally and emotionally
• Changes in personality
• Unexplained paranoia

Noticing Symptoms and Signs

An addict or even someone with a dependence on medication may not notice the signs and symptoms that are obvious to others. Friends and family members are often those who become the key players in getting the person to seek help. If you or a loved one has an addiction problem or just a dependence, then seek the best help available.

DARA Rehab

There are always options when it comes to treatment. Out-patient counseling is one option, but when withdrawal is a concern then medical treatment should also be sought. Following the withdrawal period, out-patient counseling is something that should be utilized to maintain recovery whether it be through group or individual settings. Getting clean on your own is also possible, but rarely works and medical concerns are still high priority. The best option is an in-patient facility that is well staffed and well versed in addiction.

One such facility is DARA. DARA offers locations in several countries around the world with affordable prices and spectacular views from luxury facilities that will meet your recovery needs. DARA does not simply focus on addiction, but on the overall wellbeing of the person. This is accomplished through education, therapy, groups, and even physical fitness and nutritional balance.

Addiction can affect the whole body and this should be addressed through rehab. Each person will be given the tools and training necessary to reenter the real world ready to face daily challenges that come with recovery. This means that the person will have a personal trainer to help improve the body physically, nutritious meals for the same reason, and individual and group therapy to help the person learn about their addiction or dependence and how to handle related issues. DARA is waiting to find a spot for you, but you must make the call to get started.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

When is it Time for the Alcoholic Intervention?

If you are living with an alcoholic you may be feeling hopeless and helpless. It may seem like nothing you can do or say can change a situation. However, there is one option that you may not have considered, the alcoholic intervention. An alcoholic Intervention can change lives by allowing families to take a proactive stance. Alcoholic Intervention can help you reach out to the person who really needs help and offer them an option for receiving that help. There are certain considerations and steps you should take to create a better chance at an effective alcoholic intervention and these are explained below.

Step 1: Choose the Team Wisely

An intervention is a conversation or a motivating talk between people who know, love, and trust the addicted person to come together with the goal of convincing the addict to seek help. This means that those who participate should be chosen with care so the outcome is more likely to end productively. The team should have a meaningful relationship with the alcoholic and be willing to be helpful and encouraging.

An interventionist is also very helpful as both a supporter and guide through the process. There are seasoned professionals who serve as interventionist and one should be contacted and scheduled. The interventionist can help choose the team if necessary. An interventionist can also help the entire family after an alcoholic intervention to engage in recovery. This will aid in developing long term solutions and hopefully the prevention of further addictions.

Step 2: Find the Right Time and Place to Talk

This may seem easier than it actually is in reality. You must choose a moment when the person is sober or nearly sober as a form of protection for all involved. Someone who is drunk is more likely to respond in an out of control manner when it comes to words and actions. Alcohol can affect the person’s ability to think clearly and register what is happening which can ruin the chances for rehab.

The best time for an intervention is often first thing in the morning or after a major drug related incident. The morning tends to allow the alcoholic haze to be gone or mostly gone, but a major incident such as a DUI may also give rise to an opportunity to discuss how the problem could have been avoided. In these moments of vulnerability, true change can be started.

Almost as important as the time, is the place. It can be very tempting to hold an intervention in a family home, but this can bring about memories of other unsuccessful talks and even give the person a spot to retreat to because it is a familiar area. Find a neutral space like a therapist or interventionists office as people tend to behave their best in these places and it can be hard to walk out or hide. Other options such as churches or community centers in which a private space can be obtained is also a good choice.

Step 3: Order of Speakers

An intervention ends as soon as a person agrees to treatment, which means the order of speakers is very important. Allowing the right person to speak at the right time can lead to faster acceptance of help. The addict that has a special relationship with a child or spouse may do best if they hear from this person first. On the other hand, those who have had family speak to them repeatedly may do best hearing from a friend first. Hearing new stories can sometimes be a wake-up call as new information is presented.

As the order of speakers is determined you should also take time to rehearse so if another order works better that can be determined. Rehearsals also help to prepare a person as emotions will likely be high and the speaker can forget what they wanted to say if they have not practiced. Practicing also helps people stand behind their statements, making thoughts and words clear and comprehensible. An interventionist may also help the family role play and prepare for what the alcoholic could say. The number of rehearsals may vary depending on how many people are involved and how willing they are to speak up. Those unwilling to rehearse may not truly be committed to the cause.

Step 4: Stick to the Script

The reason for rehearsal is so participants can spend time with their intervention script and get invested. This is so they may carefully plan each detail with the right words to present. This is important. However, when the intervention begins and emotions are running high, it is tempting to adlib. This should be avoided. You know your script and so does everyone else, if you add something it can derail the intervention and make other uncomfortable.

As you speak to your loved one, on script, make sure you are using warm body language. If you are being closed off in actions, your words may not matter. To use open body language, try to focus on the following:

• Lean in for emphasis
• Tilt your shoulders toward the person you are speaking to
• Look at the person you are speaking to
• Keep your hands unclenched, arms and legs uncrossed

Step 5: Keep Your Temper in Check

Medicine has shown that addictions, including alcoholism, stem from chemical changes in the brain, not defective characters. This means that treatment through punishment, negative confrontation, and altercations are pointless. This means interventions need to be compassionate to be effective. It can be tough, but you must not allow the alcoholic to start a fight, either change the subject or move on because a fight will derail the intervention.

Step 6: Develop a Backup Plan

Alcoholics, anyone with an addiction, can respond in unpredictable ways, especially when confronted in an intervention. They may try one of the following:

• Leaving the room
• Yelling or screaming
• Crying hysterically
• Saying untrue things

If you have a backup plan for such scenarios then you will be ready for whatever happens. You can most be prepared by knowing you are all together and can get through this. Stay flexible and be prepared as much as you can.

Step 7: Do Not Give Up

Interventions are not always successful and some may not be successful the first time. While ultimately, 90% of those that are part of an intervention do choose rehab, there is no data on how many conversations were needed to get to that point. Do not get frustrated if immediate results are not seen. Treatment does work and over time people may be persuaded to seek that treatment.

Getting Help

It is always helpful to have several options available for rehab prior to the alcoholic intervention. DARA offers options in many countries for in-patient treatment. If you are planning an intervention and want to make sure a spot is open and ready, give DARA a call. DARA offers a program that works with the mind, body, and spirit to help the person get on the road to recovery and then return to their every day life. Best of luck on your intervention and know if your loved one enters treatment, DARA is one of the best.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

What is Klonopin

Before talking about Klonopin addiction, effects, and withdrawal, first we need to understand what is Klonopin. Klonopin, also known as Clonazepam, is actually a drug used to prevent and control seizures. It is known as an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic type of drug. However, Klonopin is also used to treat panic attacks. This medication is prescribed by a doctor and works by calming your brain and nerves, belonging to the drug family of benzodiazepines.

Other common benzodiazepines include medications like Xanax, Librium, Valium, and Ativan. All of which are considered highly addictive. Klonopin, when used correctly, can be highly effective. However, it may create a tolerance as well. Especially when used for panic attacks.

Klonopin Side Effects

Klonopin is a highly effective medication for both seizures and panic attacks, but as with many other medications it is important to know that side effects exist. Though the focus of this article is addiction and withdrawal from Klonopin, knowing normal side effects can help eliminate them to some degree in addiction. Typical Klonopin side effects include depression, suicidal thoughts, confusion, and memory problems. If these symptoms show up you need to talk to your doctor and if they do not lessen over time then this is a problem.

Klonopin Addiction

Since Klonopin is potentially habit forming simply by being part of the benzodiazepine family, some people can become addicted in only a few weeks. For some this may happen without trying, simply by using exactly what the doctor prescribed. Once a person is addicted, the brain can no longer produce the feelings Klonopin is supposed to that of relaxation and calmness. This is why people with Klonopin addiction struggle to quit and are unable to function normally without it. Signs of Klonopin addiction include:

• Persistent Klonopin cravings
• Continued use despite negative consequences
• Losing interest in obligations (social and professional)
• Wanting to quit without the ability
• Issues financially or legally

This all begins with a tolerance to the medication, like so many other addictions. The user builds up a tolerance in which they need a larger dose to get the same effects as the smaller dose. This can happen so quickly with Klonopin because as soon as the drug wears off, symptoms of anxiety and insomnia often return immediately.

Withdrawal from Klonopin

Withdrawal symptoms from Klonopin are highly varied and feeling these symptoms is often what keeps someone from stopping on their own. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms seek medical intervention as they can be difficult to navigate. Symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Stomach Pains and nausea
• Tremors and sweating
• Hallucinations
• Dizziness and Confusion
• Fatigue
• Anxiety and depression
• Seizures
• Thoughts of suicide

As mentioned, some of these are normal side effects of Klonopin, but the difference is that with side effects they are typically felt when first taking the medication and go away over time, while withdrawal comes after prolonged use.

Acute withdrawal usually peaks two weeks after stopping Klonopin use, but can last anywhere from a week to a full month with subtle signs. There are also medically concerning physical symptoms of Klonopin withdrawal that should be monitored. These include:

• Short term memory loss
• Insomnia
• Irregular heart rate or palpitations
• Increased blood pressure
• Blurred vision
• Muscle spasms
• Impaired coordination and motor functions

Withdrawal from benzos can have debilitating psychological side effects, including an increased risk for suicide. This is why finding the right treatment is so important.

Withdrawal Timing

There are three main phases of withdrawal from Klonopin, early, acute, and protracted or late. Klonopin is a benzo with a long half life of 18 to 50 hours so withdrawal will not likely begin before 1 to 3 days of the last dose because until then the drug is still effective. Early withdrawal lasts about 2 to 4 days and is likely to include rebound symptoms like insomnia and anxiety. This moves into acute withdrawal that peaks around two weeks and can last from a week to a month. Acute withdrawal is when the majority of symptoms will be felt. Protracted or late withdrawal can include the continuation of some symptoms and drug cravings may occur. This aspect can last for several months or even years for some people.

Not everyone will have all three phases as they are affected by some other influencing areas, which include:

• Age – Older people tend to have stronger withdrawal
• Amount taken with each dose – The more drug ingested, the more heavily dependent the brain
• Abuse of other substances – Multiple drug use can make all side effects worse
• Length of time – The longer Klonopin has been used, the more dependent one becomes
• Comorbid disorders – Mental health issues and medical issues can make withdrawal worse
• Genetics – A family history of addiction can increase Klonopin addiction behaviors and withdrawal symptoms
• Environmental factors – Environments that are high stress or non-supportive can impede the withdrawal period.

Treatment Options

There are always options when it comes to treatment. Out-patient counseling is one option, but when Klonopin withdrawal is a concern then medical treatment should also be sought. Following the withdrawal period, out-patient counseling is something that should be utilized to maintain recovery whether it be through group or individual settings. Getting clean on your own is also possible, but rarely works and medical concerns are still high priority. The best option is an in-patient facility that is well staffed and well versed in addiction.

One such facility is DARA. DARA offers locations in several countries around the world with affordable prices and spectacular views from luxury facilities that will meet your recovery needs. DARA does not simply focus on addiction, but on the overall well being of the person. This is accomplished through education, therapy, groups, and even physical fitness and nutritional balance. Addiction can affect the whole body and this should be addressed through rehab. Each person will be given the tools and training necessary to reenter the real world ready to face daily challenges that come with recovery. If you or a loved one has developed a Klonopin addiction or any addiction to benzos, then give DARA a call. Your life does not need to be lived tethered to a drug, DARA can help.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

What is Addiction?

Before you can determine if you or a loved one has an addiction or drug abuse problem, you must understand what an addiction or drug abuse problem actually is according to the professionals. An addiction is a complex condition, a brain disease, that is manifested through compulsive substance use in spite of the harmful consequences. People who suffer from addiction tend to have an intense focus on getting and using specific drugs.

Addiction is no respecter of persons. Anyone can develop a drug abuse problem. Regardless of social class, age, ability, race, or gender. It can be difficult to identify a drug abuse problem, especially for those who have continued to work and live a relatively normal life. Having a drug problem is no reason to be ashamed. Unless you are refusing to seek help. Take a chance on yourself and get help for yourself or your loved one if necessary. Life will improve if you take that chance.

Identifying a Drug Abuse Problem

Drug abuse, now called substance use disorder, is more common than most might think. If you are concerned you or a loved one has an issue then there are two main areas to look at for signs. These are physical and behavioral. Since drug abuse does not depend on age, the addiction may have started through prescription or street drugs and developed from there.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms of addiction start with tolerance and dependence. Tolerance is usually the first stage in which the person will need more or a higher dose of the medication or drug to achieve the same effect. This means they have built up a tolerance. The next step is dependence which is when the person cannot stop using, even for a little while, without feeling withdrawal symptoms. Dependence and addiction are not the same, but dependence does often lead to addiction if the person does not receive help. Both tolerance and dependence can happen with illegal drugs and prescription medications. Other physical symptoms can include:

• Bloodshot or glazed eyes
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Abrupt weight changes (increase or decrease)
• Sleep pattern changes (insomnia or sleeping too much)
• Looking unkempt (poor hygiene)
• Unusual body odors
• Poor physical condition

These may not be present for all addicts and some may come and go or change from one extreme to the other over time. However, if several are present along with behavioral symptoms then an addiction is probably present.

Behavioral Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms will vary greatly from person to person, even those using the same drug as people can react differently to what they take. The effects may also come and go based on the amount of usage. Behavioral symptoms include:

• Increased aggression
• Increased irritability
• Lethargy
• Depression (or worsened depression)
• A change in the type of posts on social media
• Involvement in criminal activity

Again, not everything will occur with all people and some people may experience only a few of these symptoms, but it is important to watch out for these changes over time. Addiction can very easily lead a perfectly law abiding person into criminal activity to obtain more drugs if the addiction is severe enough.

Effects on Family and Friends

Addiction is a horrible thing on its own. Unfortunately, addiction does not just affect the user, but all those around him or her and in different ways. Addiction can ruin the user’s life in a short amount of time or over many years. However, the addiction also touches family, friends, and society as a whole. Allow this to be explained. Friends and family members may suspect someone is using, but not say anything for a while. This allows resentment to build up over time and a fight may occur and damage the relationship. Furthermore, friends and family may have to bail an addict out of bad situations, loan them money, or provide shelter when things get their worst. This can get old.

In the worst case scenario, addicts may lie to family and friends or even steal from them to support an addiction. If the addict turns to crime then society is also affected as they must deal with the person going to jail and going through the court system. These negative effects can build until the user has no support which may make the addiction worse or could be the wake up call that is needed.

Getting Help

As with any issue, especially those related to addiction, admitting there is a problem is the first step. Once you or a family member is ready to admit a problem exists, then help is available. Pushing someone into rehab before they are ready is rarely successful, though some who have been court ordered have successfully stayed in recovery long term.

DARA rehab seeks to use a program that is both affordable and effective. With locations in many countries around the world, DARA has taken converted luxury resorts and created an oasis of sorts for those ready to overcome their addictions. By focusing not only on the actual addiction, but also the mind-body connection, DARA is successful in this approach. Clients are kept on a busy schedule that forces them out of the comfort zone of hiding and into life. A typical day may include an early morning, short water workout in the pool while enjoying stunning views. Proceed to a nutritious, bountiful breakfast and then therapy, both group and individual for the day.

The therapy process focuses on education about addiction as well as cognitive behavioral therapy that helps the user learn that thoughts, actions, and behaviors are related and can be altered if you change any single aspect. Each patient will meet and workout with a personal trainer to both improve the body and build self-esteem. There are also sports, meditation, and on occasion movies and games. This keeps the patient busy while also creating chances for interactions and personal growth. Before leaving DARA, you will gain the tools necessary to move back into your every day life. This allows you to reenter your life with what is necessary to stay drug free.

Are You Ready?

If you are ready to get help for a drug abuse problem, give DARA a call. Someone is available 24/7 to help you get started in your first steps to recovery.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

Losing Trust with Addiction

Addiction changes lives, and it’s not just the lives of those who are addicted. Family members, friends, and acquaintances are often damaged in the wake of addiction. It is not uncommon for an addict to lie, cheat, steal, and much more in order to feed the addiction. One of the things lost on both sides of addiction is trust. An addict may lose trust in family and friends because they tried to force rehab or lied about discussing the addiction and loved ones may lose trust in the addict because of all the behaviors over time. However, rebuilding trust is possible. 

Rebuilding Trust

It may seem odd that family members may need to rebuild trust with the addict during recovery, but the truth is addiction steals trust for many reasons and in many ways. Even after the addict gets help and is in recovery, the memories of how they were treated can leave relationships strained. This is usually because there was a difference in opinion over getting help and someone was too tough or too lenient and conflict ensues. It will take time to rebuild this trust.

On the other hand, it will also take time for others to trust the addict once again. Addiction brings about many behaviors that break trust. Addicts may steal, lie, cheat, disappear, and break promises in order to further the addiction and this ruins trust. The good news is it is possible to rebuild that trust.

Basic Steps to Rebuilding Trust

The basic steps to rebuilding trust are time, boundaries, consistency and honesty. This is not as easy as it sounds, but it is necessary to rebuild trust on both sides of addiction. For the addict and those that are hurt it will take time before trust is given. This may mean weeks, months, or even years before people can once again trust each other. During this time both parties must be consistent and honest with one another, even when it is difficult. This is what is hardest for most people as it is difficult to be honest when the truth is not great. However, if you are consistently honest, even when it does not benefit you in any way or is even embarrassing, then trust will grow as people understand it is hard to share.

Another area that is difficult but necessary is to set boundaries. Addiction ruins boundaries, so when in recovery boundaries are necessary. Make sure both sides know and keep these boundaries. If they are broken then there should be basic consequences. These boundaries will create healthy relationships.

Consistency is Key

Finally, consistency is key. Addiction tends to make someone inconsistent in everything but the addiction. Addicts likely missed big family events, made plans that they bailed on, or just broke numerous promises and this breaks trust. Once in recovery it is best to be consistent and do as you say you are going to do in life. Even small promises and agreements should be kept and this consistency will help build trust. The same is true of the loved ones of the addict. If they agree to something then the promise should be kept. Remember, it is ok to say no to activities, but if you say yes then do what you said. This simple act goes a long way to building trust.

Help

If you or a loved one is in active addiction then seek help. DARA can help you not only overcome addiction, but help to start rebuilding trust and relationships through family counseling and individual counseling while at a DARA facility. Addiction steals so much, but much of it can be regained in time and with work. Call to book a room and get the help you need today.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.