What are the Biggest Differences Between a Secular and Christian Recovery Program?

Secular and Christian recovery programs both have the same goal: to help people recover from their addiction. They are both highly effective in helping people recover from their addiction. However, the styles of the programs are different. The biggest difference between a secular and Christian recovery program is a secular recovery program talks about recovery from a general perspective and a Christian recovery programs talked about recovery from a Christian perspective.

Other differences between a secular and Christian recovery program are:

• The Concept of the Higher Power
In a secular recovery program, the subject of the Higher Power is presented as anything that can restore you to sanity because they understand that everyone can have a different Higher Power depending on their religious beliefs, personal beliefs, past experiences with religion, and personal values. In a Christian recovery program, the concept of the Higher Power will be the Christian concept of the Higher Power, which is God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
• Literature Used
A secular recovery program that uses the 12-Steps will use The Big Book of Alcoholics’ Anonymous and other literature published by the 12-Step Programs. A Christian recovery program will use the Bible as it the sole source for recovery guidance.
• Rules and Regulations
Christian recovery programs may have rules and regulations that are from Christian doctrine (e.g. attending religious services, certain clothing being prohibited, makeup being prohibited, opposite-sex sleeping arrangements, homosexual relationships, etc.). Conversely, a secular recovery program will have rules just to help maintain safety in the treatment center and keep everyone sober.
• Use of Christianity in Treatment
Both secular and Christian recovery programs will most likely use the same evidence-based psychotherapy methods. However, a Christian recovery center will incorporate Christian and biblical concepts in therapy. For example, if you are struggling with a childhood trauma, a secular therapist will tell you to look at the good that has come from it, and a Christian therapist may find a quote from the Bible to help you have faith there was a greater purpose to it.

Determining Which Type of Treatment is Right for You

The type of treatment that is right for you will depend on your beliefs and preferences. If you are a strong Christian, a Christian recovery program can greatly supplement your recovery. Being in a program with other Christians can help you find common Christian-related solutions. A Christian recovery program is generally good for someone who has a positive view of Christianity. Even if you are a Christian, you may wish to keep your recovery and faith separate, and that is totally fine. If you are seeking a Christian recovery program, make sure you find one that suits our beliefs because not all Christians subscribe to the same beliefs and rituals.

If you do not have a positive view of Christianity, subscribe to only some of or not any of the beliefs or rituals, or wish to keep tour faith and recovery separate, a secular treatment center may be better for you. A secular treatment center will strictly focus on universal solutions to recovery and evidence-based therapy methods. A secular treatment center will be more diverse, allowing you to explore a variety of perspectives.

How a Higher Power in Recovery Helps

The 12-Steps have been such a widely used formula in the recovery programs because it allows its subscribers to humbly admit, “I cannot do this alone; I need a Higher Power and other who have the same problem to help me.” Studies have shown that those who have believe in a loving Higher Power and willingly attend religious or spiritual services have an easier time psychologically. This may be due to the fact that belief in a Higher Power helps people know that they are not alone and there is a reason for everything in life.

Your Higher Power does not have to be a male or female god sitting somewhere on a throne or any other supernatural Higher Power. Your Higher Power can be anything on the inside or outside of yourself to restore you to sanity (e.g. the Universe, your recovery program, your sponsor, a gemstone, The Big Book, etc.). Do not worry about other people’s views of judgments. Lean on the Higher Power of your own understanding instead of trying to fight the Higher Power of other people’s understanding.

South Florida has many secular and Christian recovery programs. Contact one today to learn more at 800-737-0933.

How Long Are You Allowed To Stay in Residential Drug Treatment Programs?

Asking questions helps you prepare for your stay in a residential drug treatment program, and you need to know how long you will be allowed to stay at the facility. Although you may be worried about whether or not your treatment will be long enough to help you overcome a long-term addiction, you can rest assured that you will not leave the program until your treatment plan is complete. You also have the added bonus of knowing that your drug treatment program offers continuous support that helps you get through those first few months of recovery.

In most cases, a residential drug treatment program does not have a strict rule about how long you can stay. Instead, there are usually several different length programs available, and your addiction treatment team will work with you to find out which one is best to help you get sober. While you may not have a definite answer right now, you can use this guide to understand exactly what goes into the decisions regarding the length of your stay at rehab.

Understand How Residential Treatment Jumpstarts Recovery

In a perfect world, you could stay in residential treatment until you knew that you would never relapse. While it is amazing to be surrounded by a supportive team of staff members and residents who understand what you are going through, the truth is that you will eventually need to return to your normal life. Residential treatment programs are designed to give you a break from your every day stresses so that you can focus on your recovery. Yet, they are also meant to be short enough that you do not forget that you have a life to begin rebuilding outside of those safe walls.

The purpose of residential treatment is to help you escape from common triggers for your addiction such as seeing your dealer or drinking buddy out in the neighborhood after work. Spending a few weeks in the program also helps you to work through the withdrawal process with the support of trained professionals. During your time in the residential portion of your treatment, you will begin to lay the foundation for the rest of your life’s sobriety. This is done through using these types of intensive therapy that give you a jumpstart toward ending your addiction.

  • family counseling
  • individual therapy sessions
  • nutritional support
  • recreational activities
  • group meetings

Take Your Financial Situation and Lifestyle Into Consideration

There are also logistical factors that influence the length of your stay. For instance, your health insurance policy may only cover a specific number of days or weeks in residential rehab. Once you have stayed for this allowed amount of time, you may need to switch to a different option such as outpatient care to make your treatment fit your budget.

You may also have a lifestyle that limits how long you can stay in a residential program. If you have children, then you may need to plan for your stay to be only for as long as is necessary to get you stabilized for a strong recovery. While it is hard to leave your kids for any length of time, this is the best choice that you can make for helping to support a healthy family. Students and people with careers may also need to take a temporary leave of absence from their responsibilities. You can start to figure out how long you might be able to stay in a residential program by thinking about these factors.

Get a Personalized Treatment Plan That Outlines Your Stay

When it comes down to it, your sobriety is your biggest priority. For this reason, you will want to find out what a professional team of addiction counselors think is the amount of time that you need to stay in a residential treatment program. When you first call or arrive for your admission, you begin to go through a process that includes a physical exam along with an interview with a counselor that helps them to learn more about your struggles with drugs and alcohol along with your lifestyle.

With this information, you can then receive a customized treatment plan that outlines exactly how long you are recommended to stay in the residential treatment program. Although you are free to leave at any time, it is best to follow the plan. In some cases, you can even extend your stay if you feel like you need more time to work through the issues surrounding your addiction.

Our residential drug treatment program is set up to allow you to stay as long as you need to feel strong in your sobriety. Are you ready to begin the process of staying in a supportive environment that helps you recover? Get your personalized recommendation for a residential stay by calling our team today at 800-737-0933.

What Are the Most Surprising Rules at Residential Treatment Centers in Florida?

Over the course of your time dealing with an addiction, you may have broken a few rules. Some of these rules might have been mild such as showing up to work late, or they may have even led to legal consequences. You might have even broken rules that you made for yourself such as saying that you would only have one drink or make it a week without using drugs.

As an adult, you may bristle at the thought of being handed down rules such as a set curfew for quiet hours or a restriction regarding the use of your cell phone. However, there is a good reason for the rules that a residential treatment center in Florida has set in place. Your time is rehab is a special moment in your life when you can focus completely on taking care of yourself. For some people, this may be the first time that they have been able to dedicate solely toward improving their physical and mental health. The rules are there to help you focus on your recovery, and even the most surprising ones are established to help everyone to work together on the shared goal of sobriety.

You May Need to Prepare for Restrictions on Electronic Usage

In a world where you may receive hundreds of emails a day, it seems impossible to unplug. Most rehab programs place strict restrictions regarding the use of cell phones, laptops and other forms of technology. This rule is established for several purposes. First, it helps you to avoid common triggers such as work-related stress or social media that makes you feel more depressed. Second, turning off your electronic devices gives you time to put toward self-improvement. You’ll be so busy attending counseling sessions and enjoying recreational activities that you really won’t miss your smartphone. If you are worried about losing touch with your loved ones, then you can be reassured that most rehabs allow you to have contact with your family and approved friends.

You should also be aware that the restrictions regarding electronic usage may extend to entertainment sources such as televisions and e-readers. While you may be able to watch a movie or television show, the content may be restricted to only ones that are approved for a general audience. For now, avoiding movies or stories that depict the use of drugs or alcohol helps you to minimize cravings.

New Romantic Relationships Are Prohibited

Dating may be one of the last things on your mind as you head off to rehab. However, it is not uncommon for two people to discover that they share things in common as they begin to talk to each other in rehab. The staff at your treatment center do not want to stop you from having fun, but they also know that research shows that it is best to avoid new relationships when you are in recovery. Starting a new romance in rehab exposes you to potential stresses that distract you from the real reasons why you are in treatment.

At times, couples decide to get sober together. Different rehabs have their own rules about how to handle situations such as a married couple who want to attend the same program, and it can be beneficial for couples to be in a place where they can attend therapy together. When couples are allowed to attend the same treatment center, they may be asked to sleep in gender-specific rooms during their stay. They may also be asked to refrain from physical or romantic contact that could be distracting to other people staying at the rehab. This also helps to keep their focus on their recovery.

Everyone Is Expected to Follow their Treatment Plan

Many residential treatment centers can begin to feel more like a vacation than somewhere you go to get professional help with addiction. While your rehab may have awesome amenities such as a pool or gym, the truth is that you cannot spend all day doing whatever you want. During your stay, you are expect to adhere to a treatment plan that includes the following.
•attendance at individual therapy sessions
•participation in group counseling
•meeting with career coaches and other specialists
•respecting quiet times

Your success in recovery depends upon your participation in each component of your treatment plan. While it may be hard to stick to a schedule, it helps you to stay busy during each day so that you think less about your cravings.

Are you curious about the rules that we have at our rehab center? Reach out to us today so that we can fill you in on all the exciting things that we do to make your stay comfortable. Call us today at 800-737-0933.

The Journey Out of Addiction

I know you have been struggling lately. I know your mind is full of questions and anxiety and you may even be wondering if since you left the last rehab center you were at, if this is truly it for you. You think the situation is hopeless. Most of all, you think you’re hopeless. You’re asking yourself, “Can a Florida Drug Treatment Center really help me stop relapsing? I’ve tried before. I just keep failing. I keep letting myself down and my family.” You think you’re a failure. I’m here to tell you that you are not. It’s not easy for anybody. We all make mistakes. When we fail, all we can do is take it square on the chin and try again. This is what sets aside the strong from the weak. This attitude is what will cause you to go to rehab and stick it out this time and stay and prove yourself.

I know you are probably more scared than anyone can fathom right now. You are probably angry at yourself for who you think you have become. You are probably angry at yourself for reasons you can’t even explain to yourself in your head. This is all okay and this is all normal. You are normal. You are not a failure. You are an addict. You won’t be one forever. The help you need is here and you are strong enough to receive what it entails.

What Is the Point of You Going Back to Rehab

I know trying can sometimes seem futile. You’ve convinced yourself because you quit rehab once, you will quit it again. You are asking yourself, “What is the point?” I’m here telling the point is for you to be you again. The point is living a happy, healthy life with your family. The point is looking in the mirror and just seeing someone that is truly okay. The point is looking at your spouse at night and having ice cream together while watching a movie. The point is laughing with your brother. The point is that everyone loves you and wants to make more memories with you here.

It is upsetting when you have to start something at the very beginning again because you stopped. This is true with many things, such as diets. You can be doing very good and it is just so easy to go back to your old ways in an instant. It doesn’t make you a lesser person. It just makes you more human.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

It is hard to go through anything alone. It is even more difficult to analyze things in your mind when they all come out making you hate yourself more. The fact of the situation is that there are pros and cons to everything and looking at those by yourself can be blinding. I am here to help us weigh those pros and cons together. The pros and cons of going back to rehab are very simple. They are listed below.

Pros

  • Being healthy again
  • You will gain a support group
  • You will no longer be a slave to drugs and/or alcohol
  • You will be happy again
  • You will have more money to spend on you and your family

Cons

  • You could fall prey to your addiction and die
  • You will lose money
  • You will lose friends and family
  • You will be depressed

When you look at this list of pros and cons written out, it may seem complex in some ways, but simple in others. It may be hard to look at, especially the word “death” but it is a very real risk when it comes to addiction. It can even be hard to look at words like “happy” or “family”. When the addiction becomes part of your life, it is hard to see past it. This is true even when you desire to seek help.

The Decision is Yours

It is true when it comes to getting help, the decision is truly yours. No one can bend your arm or force you to get help no matter how much they would like to. It is your choice. To go to rehab especially when it is for the second, third or even fourth time is not an easy decision, but each time it is a brave one. Though others may tell you differently, it is truly something you should feel inside yourself that it is the right time. This will make your chances of succeeding that much greater.

When making your decision, keep in mind that you truly do have a whole support group behind you. Even if you have no friends or even family that you feel will support you, you have a group of other people you will meet that will be on the same mission you are: to beat their addiction. To succeed, you must remember there is life beyond addiction. In this case, the grass truly is greener on the other side. If you take the next step, you will be on a journey and you will succeed each day you are on the path to sobriety.

If you are ready to begin this path and say goodbye to a world of addiction and drugs, please call your local drug treatment facility as soon as possible. You will talk to someone who will help you through the next step of the process. Do not be afraid of judgment. I can guarantee if you are seeking help, you will be met with the utmost care and respect you can imagine. Best of wishes are with you on your journey out of addiction, back to sobriety and back to yourself. Call us today at 800-737-0933.

Do You Go to 12 Step Meetings During Alcoholic Rehab Programs?

Most addiction experts will agree that detox is the most critical aspect of overcoming an alcohol use disorder; however, there is much more involved when it comes to achieving long-term recovery success, which is where 12-step programs come into the picture. For those who may not be familiar with them, 12-step programs are support groups where individuals openly share their experiences related to destructive behaviors, such as alcohol addiction. However, they can also be beneficial to those struggling with other substance abuse problems or even an addiction to gambling.

In terms of alcohol addiction, 12-step programs will encourage members to follow established guidelines that are designed to help them achieve short and long-term sobriety. The most popular of these programs is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). However, with the success of AA, several similar programs have also been established, including Narcotics Anonymous and Heroin Anonymous.

COMBINING 12-STEP PROGRAMS AND STANDARD ALCOHOL ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENTS

Although most individuals will attend a 12-step program after completing rehab, many rehab facilities will offer these programs in conjunction with other treatment modalities, including medically-assisted detox and addiction counseling. According to a study published by SAMSHA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), more than 74 percent of rehab facilities in America will use 12-step programs alongside standard addiction recovery treatment to give individuals the best chance of achieving long-term recovery success.

WHAT HAPPENS IN A 12-STEP PROGRAM?

Generally speaking, those in the earlier stages of addiction recovery will attend a 12-step program 2 or more times per week. During these meetings, they will share their struggles and achievements related to their alcohol use disorder with others in the program. Although administered or coordinated through a licensed rehab facility, 12-step programs are not run by addiction counselors. Instead, they are led by individuals that are still in recovery and have a desire to help others remain alcohol-free. And they do this by sharing tips related to relapse prevention along with coping with cravings and temptations. While in a 12-step program, members will have a sponsor, someone who will explain how the program works and, more importantly, be there for them whenever they feel compelled to start drinking again.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A 12-STEP PROGRAM?

A 12-step program provides individuals with the tools that they need to maintain their sobriety during and after completing rehab. Some of these tools include learning how to come to terms with their addiction, accepting the consequences of their actions while under the influence, and finding ways to repair the relationships that they damaged as a result of their addiction. Furthermore, studies show that many individuals are more likely to follow the advice of their sponsor in a 12-step program than the recommendations made by a licensed addiction therapist since they have gone through similar struggles when it comes to substance abuse. And for those without friends or family, these sponsors can help them from veering off course when it comes to maintaining their sobriety. In most cases, the treatment costs associated with a 12-step program is linked to the total cost of care, which is determined by the rehab facility. However, if an individual chooses to continue with these programs after completing rehab, they are free.

ARE 12-STEP PROGRAMS EFFECTIVE?

Most rehab facilities across the nation agree that 12-step programs play a critical role when it comes to helping individuals remain alcohol-free long-term, insomuch that many have made them part of the evidence-based treatments that they offer to those who are serious about putting alcohol abuse behind them for good. According to a 2013 study published by Social Work in Public Health, a peer-reviewed scientific journal, the earlier an individual takes part in a 12-step program, the less likely they are to relapse. It is important to note, however, that individuals will need to stick with these programs long-term to get the most out of them. To that point, a 2014 study published by the National Institute of Health revealed that 49 percent of individuals who completed formal rehab and continued to attend 12-step meetings were still alcohol-free after 8 years.

BOTTOM LINE

If you’re interested in learning more about how a 12-step program can help you end your relationship with alcohol or need help finding a rehab facility in your area, you’re encouraged to speak with one of our addiction specialists today at 800-737-0933.

Will Christian Recovery Centers Help Me Mend My Relationship with God?

God has many different meanings. For Christians, God means the Father God, the Son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. For Muslims, God means Allah. For some people, God means the Universe or Divine Energy. For others, God is simply the good orderly direction that they receive from their recovery programs. All concepts are accepted and viewed as equally valid in recovery programs. God or a Higher Power has a presence in many recovery programs because the 12-Steps include it and many people find help leaning on God or a Higher Power.

Whether not a Christian Recovery Center will help you mend your relationship with the God of Your Understanding is contingent on a variety of factors:

• The God of Your Understanding
First and foremost, the God of your understanding must be the Christian Concept of the Higher Power. I have a belief system that that concept of the Higher Power, a Christian Recovery Center will not help you mend your relationship with the God of Your Understanding. You should look into a rehab that is specific to your faith or a secular rehab that has a diverse range of individuals.

• Your Past Experience with Christianity
If you were raised Christian and saw that as a good upbringing or had past experiences with Christianity or Christians that were positive, a Christian Recovery center may be beneficial for your recovery because it is adding the specific Higher Power of Your Understanding to your recovery program. If you were raised Christian and saw that as an oppressive upbringing or had a bad experience with Christianity or Christians that were not positive, a Christian recovery center may hinder you more than help you.

• Your Views on Christianity
The label of “Christian” is extremely broad. There are many different sects of Christianity (e.g. Catholic, Evangelical, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, etc.). At the same time, not all Christians have the same beliefs about certain issues (e.g. acceptable clothing, makeup, sexuality, magical practices, cursing, etc.). If you believe in most of the rules of traditional Christianity, a conservative Christian rehab will be right for you. If you are more of a liberal Christian, a more liberal Christian rehab that only covers universal truths in Christianity will definitely be better for you. Inquire with the rehab about their beliefs and values before committing to it

What Really is Spirituality?

Spirituality has many definitions and is often used interchangeably with religion. The word “spirituality” actually stems from Latin and Greek words that mean “to have an awakening to yourself.” Spirituality does not really have anything to do with your religion, the rules, and rituals that you follow, sacred objects that you own, or where you do or do not go to church.

Spirituality is actually an experience of having strong self-esteem and feeling free to express who you truly are.

Spirituality and religion are often used interchangeably because religion was originally supposed to help people spiritually. However, human imperfection and differences make religion not a perfect system and not work for everyone. For some people, religion is a part of their spiritual journey. For example, if you are Catholic, the quiet environment of the Catholic Church can help you reflect on your life, the rituals help you feel closer to the God of Your Understanding, and the rules coincide with your personal moral beliefs. For other people, other religions or belief systems may speak to their personal spirit.

God as You Understand God: Many Paths to Spirituality

Many people come into recovery and are scared to hear the word “God.” In the 12-Steps, God is meant to be the God of Your Understanding, as it is italicized in Steps Three and Eleven. The God of Recovery is not supposed to be a punishing God; the God of Recovery is supposed to be a loving, benevolent God. If you were raised with or have experience with a concept of God that did not sit well with you, rest assured that God is not the God of Recovery or has to be the God of Your Understanding.

The God of Your Understanding can stem from the religion you were raised with, the religion that you subscribe to now, your personal belief system, an object (e.g. gemstone, book, sacred object, etc.), something within you (e.g. your conscience), or your recovery program itself. In recovery, you will meet people with all different concepts of the Higher Power. All are seen as equally valid, so do not feel pressured to have a certain concept or push a certain concept on others. There are many paths to the Higher Power, spirituality, and recovery.
There are many faith-based recovery centers and secular recovery centers ready to help you recover and find personal spirituality. Contact one today at 800-737-0933.

Are Alcohol Rehab Centers in Florida Able to Handle Drug Addiction As Well?

Addictions often come in more than one form. Your cravings for drugs and alcohol begin in the brain, and they may also include physical symptoms such as nausea and headaches that make it hard to quit everything at once on your own. Alcohol rehab centers in Florida have programs available that are designed to target the underlying causes for your addiction. The strategies that you will learn in an alcohol rehab program can help you overcome other types of addictions as well such as a dependency upon painkillers or cocaine.

When you enter the rehab center, it is important to be honest about all of your habits. The professional counselors are not there to judge you. Instead, they use the information that you provide to begin creating a plan that helps you be successful in the program. They also need to know if you have been using other types of drugs since this could affect your withdrawal and detox symptoms. Knowing about everything allows your care team to address all of the issues that surround your addictions.

Why Alcohol and Drug Addictions Often Occur Together

The simple explanation for multiple addictions is that they all stem from the same sources in your brain. Your mind becomes dependent upon alcohol and other substances to help make you feel good. For instance, you may have started drinking to alleviate your social anxiety, and you then tried using drugs to generate the same effects when you couldn’t have a drink. There are also sometimes genetic factors that influence addiction. People with a family history of addiction may also be at greater risk of developing simultaneous dependencies upon drugs and alcohol.

Your lifestyle may also have led you to try multiple substances. Alcohol and certain drugs are commonly used together at parties such as raves or concerts. You may have even used these substances in a professional atmosphere when you were networking with coworkers. While it may seem overwhelming to try to escape from this type of lifestyle, it is possible. With help from your addiction treatment center counselors, you can learn how to find new activities that support sobriety.

Dangers Associated With Combining Substances

Alcohol is a depressant for your nervous system, and its effects can be made stronger by the use of other depressants. This is why you have likely read medication labels that warn you no two use alcohol with certain pills such as painkillers. Using alcohol with other drugs can cause you to fall asleep when you need to pay attention to what you are doing such as when you are driving. Combining substances could also cause your nervous system to become so depressed that you fall into a coma.

Dealing with multiple addictions is also emotionally challenging. You may have experienced financial problems from trying to purchase alcohol and drugs. Supporting multiple addictions gets expensive, and you may also have trouble maintaining a job when you are under the influence of mind-altering substances for the majority of the day. Your relationships may also be suffering, and dealing with all of the extra stress just makes your cravings worse. As your ability to hide your addictions declines, you may have people expressing their concerns about your behavior. If so, this is a sure sign that you need help dealign with all of your addictions.

How Alcohol Rehab Centers Treat Co-Occurring Addictions

An alcohol rehab center may focus on helping people to end their drinking habits, but it is also set up to help you deal with all of the problems that cause you to want to drink and do drugs. Your program may include several different types of counseling that can all be applied to any type of addiction.
•intensive individual therapy
•expressive therapies such as art and music
•cognitive behavioral therapy
•family counseling

Depending upon your needs, you may go to an inpatient or an outpatient program. While your alcohol rehab will help you stop using drugs, you should be aware that ending several addictions may require more intensive therapy and a longer stay compared to if you were just dealing with a mild drinking problem. Make sure to stay focused during your treatment, and remember that you are doing the best thing that you can for your health and future. If possible, have your family be involved with your treatment so that you benefit from having multiple sources of support.

Are you afraid that you have developed more than one addiction? Give our alcohol rehab center a call to talk about how we can help you overcome all of your struggles today at 800-737-0933.

Will Rehabilitation Centers Help With Both Physical And Mental Health Problems?

A decision to enter treatment for drug and alcohol addiction is a life-changing event. Rehabilitation requires some thought, and it has implications for both you, your family, and even your friends and co-workers. If you have made the decision to enter treatment, good for you—–you are about to reclaim your life and find new depth and richness to life activities, emotions, and relationships.

You might be wondering what types of services are available in rehabilitation. Depending on pre-existing conditions, the extent of your substance abuse and addiction, and the physical and mental stress that your body has been under, you may require different types of services in order to bring mind and body back into balance.

Checking with your insurance company to see what services are covered can be a proactive step in preparing for care. You’ll want to take advantage of any and all services that you require and qualify for in order to give yourself a quality rehabilitation experience. Here are some of the many services that you can take advantage of in a quality rehabilitation and treatment center:

1. Psychiatric Services
One of the first things you should do upon entering rehab is undergoing a psychiatric evaluation. During this evaluative process, your team of doctors will determine which types of treatment are appropriate for you. They will be able to assess any medications you are taking and adjust dosage as needed to keep you safe and comfortable during treatment. Talk to your doctor about your mental, emotional and physical needs, and they will be able to administer medication that can make the detox process more comfortable.

2. Medical Interventions
Depending on the amount of time that you have been using and abusing drugs, you may have sustained physical damage to your body that needs attention. You will likely go through a period of detoxification, and this may throw your body into a healing crisis that may make it necessary to receive medical care or interventions. Rest assured, staff and medical professionals that work at these centers are well acquainted with the signs and symptoms of a healing crisis, and they are equipped to deal with all levels of detox safely and efficiently. Again, talk to your medical team and let them know what your symptoms are, as well as what you need in order to feel safer and more comfortable. They will work with you to help bring your overtaxed system back into balance once more.

3. Mental and Emotional services
One of the reasons that you are struggling with addiction and substance abuse is your inability to process difficult emotions and thoughts that have caused pain and discomfort. Your medical team will design a therapy/group plan for you so that you can bring out and safely process some of these difficult emotions, you can share your thoughts and learn to make healthy connections with others, and to truly begin to heal. There is no getting around it; you will have to deal with the demons that you have been hiding from in order to find peace and tranquility in your life once more. Be brave, face your difficulties, and find new, healthy ways of dealing with challenges. You will never be completely challenge-free; it’s time to embrace that side of life and look forward to the strength that you will gain in the face of overcoming adversity.

4. Options for inpatient/outpatient treatment
You and your care team have options for designing the best rehabilitation treatment for you. Depending on the level of care that you think you need, you will be able to choose from inpatient treatment, where you are housed in a controlled environment for the beginning stages of detox and recovery, or outpatient treatment, where you are required to participate in therapies, psychiatric evaluations, and medical checkups to monitor your progress. Choosing the right type of therapy is key to the success of your program. If you choose the treatment that is too intensive, you may become overwhelmed and tempted to quit, while treatment that doesn’t follow you closely enough may cause you to relapse and walk away from it altogether. You’ll have to do some soul searching as you decide what is best for you; involve others in these discussions, realizing that you need the help and support of others to make any rehabilitation program work.

You’re taking an exciting step!
Regardless of what type of services you choose to take advantage of in treatment, know that you are on an exciting and rewarding journey to a more fulfilling life. If you are ready to get started on the road to recovery, give us a call today at 800-737-0933. A healthier, more joyful life is in your future!

Are There Any West Palm Beach Rehab Options That Specialize in LGBT Patients?

In South Florida, which includes West Palm Beach, 6.4 percent of individuals between the ages of 18 and 29 identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). Nationally, the LGBT community faces a variety of challenges that drive many to start abusing drugs or alcohol. And South Florida, especially West Palm Beach, is no exception. Fortunately, there is no shortage of LGBT-friendly rehab facilities available to those who are ready to put substance abuse behind them. According to Intervention America, a national drug and alcohol treatment directory, there are more than 95 rehab facilities throughout South Florida that are committed to providing addiction recovery services to those in the LGBT community.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LGBT REHAB FACILITIES IN WEST PALM BEACH

West Palm Beach rehab facilities provide counseling sessions that are designed to address the unique needs of those in the LGBT community who are ready to end their relationship with drugs or alcohol. During these counseling sessions, individuals will learn how to cope with the challenges that are specific to those who identify as LGBT, including

  • Being discriminated against based on their sexual orientation
  • Hate crimes
  • Public humiliation
  • Physical and emotional abuse
  • Feelings of rejection
  • Self-hatred

While there are many more factors that can motivate those in the LGBT community to start abusing drugs or alcohol, those listed in this article are among the most commonly addressed by rehab facilities in West Palm Beach and the greater South Florida area.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG THOSE WHO IDENTIFY AS LGBT

As a result of the many challenges that many individuals face when it comes to being openly lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, many will turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate. This is especially true among those who are battling feelings of anxiety or loneliness, which is often a byproduct of discrimination, rejection, or public humiliation. Studies show that the most commonly abused substances among those in the LGBT community include

  • Marijuana
  • Prescription opioids
  • Heroin
  • Alcohol
  • Amphetamines

It is also worth noting that those who identify as LGBT tend to smoke more frequently than those who are heterosexual, according to a study published by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Although smoking doesn’t get the same amount of attention as abusing drugs or alcohol, it can still have serious health consequences. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking can lead to lung cancer, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), emphysema, and much more. For this reason, many rehab facilities throughout South Florida also offer tobacco cessation programs for those who are ready to quit.

MENTAL ILLNESS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE IN THE LGBT COMMUNITY

Although substance abuse coupled with a mental illness is not uncommon, it is more prevalent among those who identify as LGBT. Along with feeling judged or marginalized by society, many also struggle with health problems that stem from their sexual orientation, such as sexually transmitted diseases and sexual dysfunction, for example. Collectively, these problems often give way to substance abuse problems that are accompanied by the following mental health disorders:

  • Chronic depression
  • Stress
  • Suicidal ideations
  • Self-harm tendencies
  • Generalized anxiety

WHY CHOOSE AN LGBT-FRIENDLY REHAB FACILITY TO OVERCOME ADDICTION?

The unique approach to addiction recovery is what sets LGBT-friendly rehab facilities in the greater South Florida, including those in West Palm Beach, area apart from mainstream rehab facilities. According to a study published by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, many LGBT individuals who struggle with substance abuse believe that they are more likely to be met with intolerance and open discrimination if they seek help at a heterosexual rehab facility. The study further revealed that many of these same individuals believe that the physicians and addiction experts in a heterosexual facility might become homophobic or prejudiced toward them if they discover their sexual orientation.

Most LGBT-friendly rehab facilities throughout South Florida will agree that these are all valid concerns. In response, many offer comprehensive addiction recovery services that include mental health counseling, detox assistance, and addiction education courses that are designed with the LGBT community in mind. Best of all, these services are offered in a safe environment that is free from judgment, allowing individuals to focus on bettering their lives by putting addiction behind them once and for all.

To learn more about the many LGBT-friendly rehab facilities in West Palm Beach and throughout South Florida, you’re encouraged to schedule a consultation with one of our friendly and helpful associates today at 800-737-0933.

If Getting High on Suboxone During Treatment Is Too Tempting, What Other Medication Options Are There?

According to a study published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than 37 million individuals worldwide abuse prescription opioids. For those who may not be as familiar with them, opioids are Schedule II medications that work by binding to receptors in the brain to help block pain and promote a sense of wellbeing. And for this reason, they are among the most commonly prescribed medications for those struggling with chronic diseases that have a pain component, such as HIV, AIDS, fibromyalgia, and certain cancers.

However, in addition to blocking pain and promoting a sense of wellbeing, these same medications can trigger a euphoric high that causes many people to abuse and ultimately become addicted to them. It is important to note that many individuals also abuse street-level opioids, such as heroin, to cope with pain or to derive a euphoric high as well. Fortunately, more and more people have come to appreciate the toll that abusing these substances can have on their lives and have decided to seek help. However, many are woefully unprepared for the withdrawal symptoms associated with coming off of these drugs.

COMMON OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

Depending on how long an individual has been using, opioid withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to intense. For those coming off of short-acting opioids, such as morphine, hydromorphone, oxycodone, or heroin, for example, withdrawal symptoms can start in as little as 6 to 12 hours once they have stopped using. In contrast, those coming off of long-acting opioids, like oxycodone controlled release, Morphine ER, or Duragesic, can expect withdrawal symptoms to start within 30 hours. That said, mild withdrawal symptoms can include the following:

  • Watery eyes
  • Muscle pain
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Runny nose
  • Profuse sweating
  • An irregular heartbeat
  • Fever
  • High blood pressure

Intense withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid cessation can include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Depression
  • Severe drug cravings

HOW ARE OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS TREATED DURING REHAB?

Most rehab facilities in America will offer medically-assisted detox to help patients cope with the onslaught of severe withdrawal symptoms. Along with round-the-clock monitoring, medically-assisted detox also includes the use of Suboxone, Methadone, and Naltrexone, which have been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), to help ease withdrawal symptoms. While these medications are effective, they are also highly addictive. For this reason, the FDA recently approved lofexidine, a new medication that many hope will soon become widely available in rehab facilities across America.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LOFEXIDINE

Approved by the FDA in May 2018, lofexidine, also known as Lucemyra, is a medication that was originally used to treat hypertension and anxiety. However, because of how it interacts with the nervous system, it can also provide many of the same benefits as Suboxone, Methadone, Naltrexone, and Clonidine in terms of offering pain relief and soothing feelings of anxiety. Of these 4 medications, lofexidine has a lot more in common with Clonidine, which is frequently paired with Naltrexone to help prevent relapse. However, unlike Clonidine, it does not cause a drop in blood pressure.

WHAT MAKES LOFEXIDINE A BETTER CHOICE FOR TREATING OPIOID WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS?

The primary reason that lofexidine is a better choice for treating withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid cessation is that it is a non-opioid medication. Therefore, it doesn’t pose the same risk of addiction as other commonly prescribed drugs, which in addition to Suboxone, Methadone, Naltrexone, and Clonidine, include benzodiazepines, a class of medication commonly prescribed to treat the psychological symptoms associated with coming off of opioids. In short, lofexidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that works by reducing norepinephrine signaling in the brain, which disrupts the transmission of pain signals and promotes feelings of euphoria that can help combat depression and anxiety. It is important to note that because it is a non-opioid, lofexidine does not provide the same kind of relief from withdrawal symptoms as its opioid counterparts. Nonetheless, it is proving to be an excellent choice for individuals who would rather not get high while going through detox.

BOTTOM LINE

If you’re ready to end your relationship with opioids but have concerns about severe withdrawal symptoms while going through detox, lofexidine can help make the process that much easier. Furthermore, lofexidine is significantly safer than many of the medications that are commonly prescribed to combat severe withdrawal symptoms. To learn more about lofexidine or to find a rehab facility in your area, consider speaking with one of our addiction experts today at 800-737-0933.