Heroin. Alluring and dangerous. This white (or sometimes brown) powder, usually melted by heat and injected intravenously, is used by more than 17 million people worldwide.

The narcotic heroin is made from morphine, which is derived from the flowering opium poppy plant. In America, nearly 80 percent of heroin addicts start out by taking prescription painkillers like Vicodin and Oxycontin. Given the current opioid epidemic plaguing the U.S., it’s no wonder more and more people are wisely seeking out heroin addiction treatment centers.

Dangers of Heroin Use and Why Recovery Is Challenging

Heroin is highly addictive. When injected into a vein, it hits the opioid receptors in the brain quickly and has 2 to 3 times the effect of a similar dose of morphine. Because of these factors and the euphoric feelings of pleasure the drug emits, heroin addiction is tough to break.

Prolonged heroin use can cause:

• Abscesses (pus-filled boils on the skin)
• Stomach problems
• Liver and kidney disease
• Mental disorders
• Sexual problems
• Risk of HIV, hepatitis and other bloodborne diseases
• Permanent brain damage
• Decreased ability to breathe

While there are many additional health risks of using heroin and other opioids, the most disturbing one is overdose and death. Due to impaired judgment and the severe withdrawal distress that occurs within hours of last use, accidental overdose happens all too frequently. If the user does not receive emergency help immediately, death is often the result.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the number of Americans dying from illicit opioid overdose is approaching 25,000 annually. And while there is a significant reason for heroin users to seek treatment, the individual must really want help and be self-motivated for any treatment to work.

Heroin Addiction Treatment Success Rates

Heroin addiction is tough. You have to be tougher. You have to want to get clean.

People will not perform behaviors unless or until they are motivated to do so. Studies reveal the more people are motivated to change, the more successful they will be with the desired change. The patient’s level of motivation, an important factor in success rates in addiction treatment, contributes significantly to the effectiveness of interventions, therapy and rehab.

People in recovery who have some motivating reasons to get well have a lower attrition rate than those people who are not self-motivated.

If you truly want to be successful and are ready to become sober for good, the Maryland Recovery heroin treatment programs can be your best chance at achieving a lasting recovery from heroin addiction.

The Recovery Homes at Maryland Recovery

Recovery homes subscribe to a social model approach to rehab. Individuals in our outpatient programs learn life skills during treatment and live in a recovery home, thereby receiving an immersive rehabilitation experience.

There are many benefits of staying in a recovery home while undergoing drug rehab. Here are a few of the advantages:

• Recovery homes are less expensive than inpatient programs.
• Clients can go to work and attend school while in rehab.
• Most people are more comfortable in a home-like environment than a hospital.
• Clients can still receive intensive treatment for addiction with more freedom than inpatient care.
• Residents have numerous opportunities to engage socially with others going through similar sobriety work.
• Support groups and meetings are easily accessible.
• Accountability checks keep residents on track with a curfew, housework contribution to community living, and the commitment to staying drug-free.

Clients involved in Maryland Recovery housing participate in our intensive outpatient program and partial hospitalization programs housed in our outpatient facility in downtown Bel Air, MD.

Intensive Outpatient Heroin Program

For individuals wanting to successfully quit heroin for good, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) can be the best answer. Oftentimes, insurance doesn’t cover long hospital and inpatient stays, leaving the patient unready to face the challenges of acclimating to a new drug-free life. People struggling with heroin addiction can instead choose a long-term IOP.

The treatment options in an IOP include:

• Group and individual therapy
• Family education and therapy
• Relapse prevention and life skill building
• Tools for dealing with cravings and triggers
• 12-step meetings

A heroin addiction rehab center shouldn’t offer treatment for a pre-set number of days, but often that is the case. Thirty, 60, or 90 days might work for some people, but we are all unique individuals and when it comes to addiction recovery, you want a drug abuse treatment center that caters to your specific needs.

At Maryland Recovery, we have no set time that you must be healthy by. The decision on when it complete rehab is in your hands.

Recovery Housing Coupled with an Intensive Outpatient Program

There is a multitude of advantages in participating in a program that offers both a recovery home and effective outpatient rehabilitation. Relapse prevention, better recovery skills and a support system highlight a few such advantages.

Relapse Prevention

Lengthy education, day-to-day structure, and help in implementing a new lifestyle work together to minimize your risk of going back to heroin.

Better Recovery Skills

Imagine a longer time frame to work on honing your new addiction-fighting skills. It’s easy to see how practicing new behaviors for a lengthier period of time aids in mastery.

Support System

Research has taught us the value of a support system when it comes to addiction recovery. And when you live with people, you inevitably become close. Gaining this new circle of supportive friends who know firsthand what you’re up against offers you the chance of a lifelong support system and some great future accountability partners and sponsors.

Holistic Rehab Approach

There are reasons we as humans develop addictions. At Maryland Recovery, our goal is to help people understand their personal reasons and to heal mentally, physically and spiritually.

We believe in recovery for the whole person. That’s why we are one of the leading dual diagnosis treatment centers on the East Coast. We understand that mental illness and drug addiction go hand in hand; statistics bear it out. Whether someone uses heroin to mask the pain of mental illness or they develop a mental illness because of heavy heroin use, we are here to help them attain complete wellness.

Maryland Recovery

If you are looking for the answer to successfully beat heroin addiction, our outpatient program-recovery home model might be perfect for you. The benefits of recovery housing coupled with a holistic intensive outpatient program can be a tremendous advantage in starting a journey to lasting sobriety.

Admitting you have a problem and need help is the first step. And the first step in learning what we can offer you personally begins with that first contact.

Heroin addiction is tough. Be tougher. Contact Maryland Recovery today.

Learn About Us and Our Recovery Homes

The post Finding Heroin Addiction Treatment Success with Maryland Recovery appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

Getting sober for good can be extremely difficult. If you or a loved one is thinking about quitting alcohol (or if you’ve already tried), then you know what a hurdle this problem is to overcome. Unfortunately, one of the reasons that people have such a hard time quitting their addiction is because they don’t have all the tools they need to be successful.

Among the most important resources a person needs to stay sober is access to long-term care. Alcohol addictions rarely disappear overnight. In fact, self-destructive drinking is typically tied to a host of other mental health or behavioral issues.

Without the tools and education needed to tackle these challenges head-on, those struggling with addiction are put at a huge disadvantage as they go through recovery. People who have been through a short-term recovery program and still struggle to stay sober know this reality firsthand.

The goal of this post is to highlight the options that individuals have for effective long-term recovery from alcoholism. Our hope is that those struggling with substance abuse can get the right kind of help from qualified treatment professionals, allowing them to live happier and healthier lives free of addiction.

Effective Long-Term Treatment Models for Alcoholism

One strategy for alcoholism recovery that has found great success is the pairing of recovery home services with those of an intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization treatment program.

In these combined programs, patients live in a recovery home that helps them avoid the many temptations that they would face back home. Those living in recovery homes are expected to attend to work or school obligations and then return home by a certain time.

Additionally, a number of treatments are available through intensive outpatient programs that partner with recovery home communities. Each day, an individual may wake up at a recovery home, head to work, come home to participate in intensive outpatient therapy, and then get ready for the next day that would be mostly free of distractions or temptations.

The following services are just a few examples of the types of treatment a person may receive while living and participating in a recovery community:

• Family therapy
• Group and individual therapy
• Addiction education
• 12-step-based meetings
• Relapse trigger coaching

Making Recovery More Affordable

A recent trend that has made a big impact on addiction recovery across the country has been how insurance companies have adjusted their coverage of substance abuse treatment. In the past, insurance companies tended not to cover for weeks or months of inpatient care. Recent studies, however, have shown that the once popular 30-day model is not able to guarantee long-term abstinence from alcohol.

Today, insurance companies are more inclined to cover services that offer greater flexibility and cost-effectiveness than a month-long stay in an addiction treatment center. Thankfully, these types of alternative programs are now more readily available than ever before.

Relearning A Healthy Lifestyle

The key advantage of pairing an intensive outpatient treatment program with a stay in a recovery home community goes beyond affordability. It is true that insurance companies look more favorably on these more modern approaches to addiction recovery, but the cost savings do not contribute to a successful recovery on their own.

The most important advantage of this type of alcoholism treatment is that recovery home living puts patients in scenarios where they can practice a sober lifestyle but still have a supportive safety net. After treatment, connections with alumni and recovery specialists will form the core of a person’s recovery network.

Additionally, many outpatient treatment programs leave their doors open to former patients. This attitude encourages struggling individuals to come back if they face powerful addiction triggers and need help learning to deal with them the right way.

Without long-term recovery resources, a person can relapse once and find themselves right back where they started. Conversely, people who make mistakes within a long-term rehab plan are better equipped to get back on track as quickly as possible.

This is an important advantage of treatment strategies that revolve around intensive outpatient treatment and staying in a recovery home. Participants have time to confidently transition from rehab back to their normal lives instead of being pushed to find solutions over a period of a few short weeks.

Furthermore, the self-esteem developed through long-term care is critical for helping individuals to keep off drugs and continue down the path to sobriety.

Experience Long-Term Alcoholism Recovery

The science and thinking behind addiction recovery continue to evolve. It’s no surprise that the solutions and methods that were widely celebrated across the industry are quickly falling out of favor with the introduction of more innovative and affordable alternatives.

This is the natural course of medicine, however. Treatment methods will continue to improve as researchers collect more information, and the same could be said for addiction treatment.

Today, it is well known that access to long-term care options like alumni support, relapse prevention education and a treatment center with an open door policy all go a long way toward helping a person end their substance abuse. These are just a few of the many reasons why the experts at Maryland Recovery are so passionate about the special care they use when treating patients.

Want to learn more about recovery from alcohol addiction? Know of a friend, spouse or family member that is drinking too much but aren’t sure how to help? We encourage you to reach out to us with your questions about alcoholism, successful treatment and recovery.

Explore Our Long-Term Treatment Program

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The Dangers Of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal – Finding Safe Benzo Detox

Benzodiazepine medications are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. These drugs can treat anxiety disorders, seizures, and sleep disorders. However, they are also habit-forming and one of the most dangerous types of addictive drugs. Detoxing from benzodiazepines requires a carefully planned cessation program and medical assistance, especially once physical dependence has manifested.

Uses For Benzodiazepine Medications

Most benzodiazepine medication acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, suppressing some of the automatic responses that lead to the symptoms of anxiety disorders or seizures. Most doctors recommend short-term use of these drugs and will gradually lower a patient’s dose until he or she does not need them anymore. This is a very delicate process because people who abuse benzodiazepine medications put themselves at risk of addiction and the subsequent withdrawal, which can be fatal in some cases.

Types Of Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines exist in hundreds of forms, some of which are slow-acting and long-lasting while others are fast-acting but wear off quickly. Different benzodiazepine medications will lead to similar patterns of abuse and withdrawal symptoms, but the rate of addiction varies based on the type of drug.

• Xanax – One of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine medications in the U.S. is alprazolam, also known as Xanax. This fast-acting anti-anxiety medication acts on the central nervous system to calm the symptoms of anxiety and produces sedative effects. Xanax addiction is one of the most common forms of prescription benzodiazepine abuse in the country.
• Librium – Chlordiazepoxide, also known as Librium, is a fast-acting sedative that requires careful doctor supervision. Users can build a tolerance, which leads to physical dependency and addiction.
• Klonopin – Clonazepam, also known as Klonopin, can treat anxiety disorders as well as seizures and the symptoms of acute alcohol withdrawal due to its sedative properties.
• Tranxene – Tranxene is the brand name for clorazepate dipotassium, a sedative benzodiazepine medication intended for short-term treatment of anxiety.
• Valium – Valium is the brand name for diazepam and can treat a variety of anxiety disorder symptoms and aid sleep. This drug depresses the central nervous system and can be fatal if overdose occurs.
• Prosom – Estazolam, commonly called Prosom, is a type of benzodiazepine medication prescribed as a short-term sleep aid.
• Dalmane – Flurazepam, sold under the brand name Dalmane, can treat the symptoms of insomnia when used appropriately. Dalmane can cause memory problems and respiratory complications if abused.
• Ativan – Lorazepam is the generic name for Ativan, a very commonly prescribed sleep aid intended for short-term use.
• Versed – Midozolam, sold under the brand name Versed, is a fast-acting and powerful sedative that can help anxiety disorders. However, doctors rarely prescribe this to patients who do not have strict supervision.
• Serax – Serax is the brand name for oxazepam, and doctors often prescribe this slow-acting medication for short-term use to treat insomnia and anxiety.
• Restoril – Restoril is the brand name for temazepam, often prescribed for short-term use as a sleep aid.
• Halcion – Halcion, the brand name for triazolam, is a sleep aid intended for short-term use.
• Doral – Doral, the brand name for quazepam, is a powerful sedative only recommended for occasional, supervised use.

Risks Of Prolonged Use

Virtually every type of benzodiazepine medication works best when used in the short-term with a cessation plan. When people abuse benzodiazepine medications they often run out sooner than intended and experience withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the degree of addiction, this can be significantly damaging or even fatal in some cases.

Proper Cessation Of Benzodiazepine Medications

A doctor who prescribes a benzodiazepine medication to a patient will typically only recommend short-term use or supervised dosages at the doctor’s office. These medications are very powerful and many are fast-acting, making them problematic for patients who take them before working, going to school, driving, or engaging in risky physical activities. When a patient is nearing the end of a round of benzodiazepine medication, his or her doctor will typically recommend tapering off the medication gradually. In some cases, the doctor may recommend switching to a slower-acting but longer-lasting benzodiazepine, and then tapering that medication.

Dangers Of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

When addiction manifests or a benzodiazepine user attempts to quit “cold turkey,” benzodiazepines’ withdrawal symptoms are common, and often significant. Many patients will experience an intense resurgence of the symptoms the medication originally intended to treat. For example, a person who has developed a dependency on a benzodiazepine medication prescribed for anxiety may experience intense feelings of anxiety, nervousness, paranoia, and irritability.

The benzodiazepine withdrawal timeline depends on the type of drug and degree of addiction. Stronger benzodiazepines or advanced dependencies will lead to more damaging withdrawal symptoms, including coma or death. Most benzodiazepine medications act on the central nervous system, and addiction can result in both physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.

Medically-Assisted Detox

Benzodiazepine detox involves careful medical supervision and a regimen of gradually tapered doses. In most cases, a patient will receive smaller and smaller doses of the previously abused benzodiazepine medication or receive a longer-lasting alternative and then taper off of that. During this time, patients also receive nutritional support, counseling, and may have access to other forms of treatment as well.

Comprehensive Care For Benzodiazepine Addiction

Besides alcohol, benzodiazepines are one of the most dangerous chemicals to detox from. Benzodiazepine treatment involves careful analysis of the root cause of the addiction in conjunction with therapy and medical treatment. If you or a loved one are currently suffering from benzodiazepine addiction, it is important that you consider the potentially life-saving aspects of a medically supervised benzodiazepine detox program.

The post The Dangers of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal: Finding Safe Benzo Detox appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

During and after recovery from an addiction, support groups are necessary. Support groups give those recovering from addiction a formal support system. Active participation in these groups can reduce the rate of relapse and encourage commitment to recovery. Group members provide support and friendship to others who have suffered from the same addictions. Group members encourage sobriety and work to keep others on track.

Traditional Recovery Support Groups

One of the most common support groups for addiction recovery is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The group created a 12-step program model for recovery, which many groups still use. AA and 12-step programs are based in spiritual practice, requiring members to surrender to a higher power. Many people have found this practice unappealing. Luckily, there are several alternatives to these popular programs.

The most important part of any addiction recovery is finding a treatment plan suitable for your needs. This includes finding a long-term support group to fit your belief system. There are a variety of support groups available, each providing a different experience for its members. Research a few different groups to understand which would be best for you.

 Alternatives To AA And 12-Step Programs

If traditional support groups do not fit into your lifestyle, there are several alternatives to AA and 12-step programs. It is important to find a program that fits your specific needs. There are many avenues used to combat addiction, such as:

Finding A Support Group To Fit Your Needs

There are many options available to suit personal needs. Religious and non-religious addiction support groups offer unparalleled support for those in recovery. Choose a group to fit your belief systems and motivating factors. Finding a group of supportive individuals can prevent relapse and isolation, increasing your chances for success.

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After prolonged drug or alcohol use, the first step to making your life whole again is to rid your body of the toxic substances that fueled the addiction. In addiction treatment, this first essential step is commonly known as detox. In a physiological sense, detox is a process by which harmful chemicals or toxins are removed from your biological system. Ridding your physical body of these toxins can take days, weeks or even months to complete. Though the deep-rooted psychological effects of prolonged drug or alcohol addiction can take years to heal.

Research indicates the most effective treatment trajectory for someone in early recovery is to be found in the comprehensive treatment of holistic drug and alcohol rehabs.

What Does Holistic Mean?

Holistic describes a series of interconnected parts, whose collective purpose is only revealed in the context of a greater whole. In this case, the person is the greater whole.

Holistic medicine is a mode of treatment designed to improve the health outcome of the whole person and to focus care beyond just the physical symptoms of the disease. Holistic rehabs incorporate mental, spiritual, emotional, and social functioning into the treatment plan. Whether it concerns holistic heroin detox, holistic alcohol detox or holistic prescription drug detox, the goal of treating the whole person is constant.

Why Are Holistic Addiction Programs Important?

Whether an individual has spent weeks, months or decades battling addiction, the chemical imbalances produced in the brain take time to heal and recalibrate. Over a prolonged period of substance use, normal social functioning, the ability to maintain healthy interpersonal relationships with friends, family and loved ones can be severely affected. The ability to maintain employment or educational goals, establishing consistency with your diet and adhering to a regular exercise routine, can all be hindered by substance addiction.

Essential Aspects Of A Holistic Addiction Treatment Program

• Medical treatment. Treatment in a holistic detox center involves the whole body, including the physical and mental states – and looking at short-term and long-term medical options to regulate the systems of your body and brain to promote long-term recovery. This can include medication for depression, anxiety or compulsive disorders.
• Individual therapy. Having an independent third-party expert evaluate your past behavior and weigh in on your future goals and expectations is also essential in any holistic drug or alcohol rehab center.
  Group therapy. Finding respite from your own situation through the shared experience of others – group therapy allows individuals in recovery to not only benefit from the connections made, but to begin giving back, sharing advice, helping peers find their own strength.
• Physical activity. Exercise reduces stress and produces natural endorphins that can counteract the withdrawal symptoms resulting from substance detox. Regular physical activity can bring structure to an otherwise chaotic life, can have a positive effect on confidence, and increase the probability of achieving life goals.
• Substance addiction often results in poor diet and malnutrition. A healthy diet can affect not only your physical appearance, but also your mental and emotional well-being. Exercise combined with diet can increase longevity and provide an added layer of structure to your life.
• Meditation and Yoga are proven methods to reduce stress, focus your good energy and promote positivity. As a coping mechanism, exploring spirituality can reduce stress, reduce your chances for relapse, and decrease your risk of any number of major health conditions.
• Individuals battling addiction typically struggle to maintain healthy interpersonal relationships. Cultivating and sustaining healthy relationships are essential to achieving and sustaining happiness in life. It may take time to re-build and to mend fences. Accountability, empathy, humility, and grace – focusing on: What can I do for you, not how can you help me.
• 12-Step Programs. These programs are a key component of most holistic rehabs, and the longest standing method of treatment for drug and alcohol addiction – Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) programs have proven to be among the most effective ways to maintain long-term sobriety.

The Dangers Of A Non-Holistic Treatment Program

Non-holistic treatment programs typically have a single focus: to get the client off the substance he or she is addicted to. Typically, there is no counseling or therapy involved. These programs are positioned solely to physically remove the toxins from a person’s system. Once an individual is stabilized medically the treatment ends.

Non-holistic treatment programs typically have a higher rate of relapse than the programs of holistic rehab centers.

A National Institute on Drug Addiction report found that heroin users who received non-holistic opioid detox reported a 91% relapse-rate in drug use. And 59% of those cases reported relapse less than a week after receiving treatment.

Holistic Dual Diagnosis Treatment

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHA), in 2014 there were 21.5 million Americans suffering from substance use disorder, with 7.5 million of those also suffering from a persistent mental health disorder. This classification is known as a dual diagnosis, or co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorder.

More than one in three individuals suffering from addiction issues is also battling a serious mental health condition. The substance issue may be a result of the individual self-medicating the symptoms of the disorder.

Common symptoms of a mental health disorder include:

• Depression
• Mania
• Anxiety
• Insomnia

One of the difficulties in treating a patient with a dual-diagnosis is that those individuals are not always open and honest with medical professionals regarding the drugs or alcohol he or she may using. Psychiatric drugs should never be mixed with even a small quantity of alcohol, and certainly not with any powerful street drugs or prescription opioids.

How Does Holistic Rehabilitation Integrate Mental Health And Addiction Treatment?

Holistic prescription drug detox and holistic alcohol detox rehabilitation take your mental health and well-being into account; the treatment is not confined to the biological process of detoxifying the harmful chemicals from your body. That detox process is always the first step, but holistic rehabs push further, providing individuals in recovery with the tools, the insight, and if needed, the psychiatric medication, to facilitate a long-term, sustainable, substance-free life.

The post What is Holistic Drug and Alcohol Detox? appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

Countless Americans struggling with a substance use disorder understand the powerful connection between addiction and depression. In fact, it is estimated that 1 in 3 people suffering from clinical depression will turn to drugs or alcohol in a desperate attempt at self-medication. While drugs and alcohol may be effective in blocking out the painful symptoms of depression in the short term, substance abuse only makes the problem worse over time.

To effectively treat addiction, depression and anxiety must be addressed at the same time. It’s not uncommon for people to work toward sobriety while neglecting other aspects of their mental health. Individuals who make this mistake frequently report that, even after one year sober, depression will eventually lead to relapse.

If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction and a co-occurring mental disorder, the best way to achieve long-term recovery is through a comprehensive dual diagnosis rehab program.

What Is Depression?

Depression and sadness are not the same things. There are many reasons to feel sad from time to time: Losing a job, going through a breakup, even missing the new episode of your favorite show can all lead to feeling down in the dumps, at least for a while.

Depression, on the other hand, is a chronic condition that can last for weeks, months, even years on end, and it interferes with every aspect of a person’s life.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM, a person must experience at least five symptoms of depression almost every day for a minimum of two weeks. Some of these symptoms include:

• A loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
• Problems with memory and concentration
• Unintentional weight gain or weight loss
• A low, depressed mood
• Changes in sleep patterns (either sleeping too much, or too little)
• Thoughts of suicide, or attempted suicide
• Unwanted and intrusive thoughts about death and dying
• Slow reaction time and coordination problems
• Chronic lethargy

The Link Between Depression and Addiction

Recent research has shown that many of the factors that play a role in drug and alcohol addiction can also increase the likelihood of developing depression. Here are a few of the risk factors for developing these two conditions together:

• A family history of addiction and depression
• Experience of emotional trauma in the past
• Suffering from imbalances in brain chemistry

Does addiction lead to depression, or does depression lead to addiction? This question is pretty hard to answer, as the evidence seems to go both ways.

In one study, roughly 50 percent of patients entering a treatment program for cocaine addiction reported experiencing pre-existing symptoms of depression. In another study, physicians estimated that as many as 20 percent of alcoholics took up drinking as a way to self-medicate their depression.

There are other studies, however, showing that addiction frequently precedes depression. After surveying more than 18,000 American teenagers, researchers found that young people who partake in drug use and risky sexual behaviors are much more likely to experience depression a year later. However, teens who reported being depressed were not more likely to experiment with drugs in the following year.

This “chicken or the egg” question has no easy answer and varies widely from person to person. The important thing to remember is that once someone has developed both addiction and depression, the two conditions reinforce each other. This is why it is so important for people seeking drug addiction depression treatment to make sure both their substance abuse issues and depression are addressed at the same time.

Depression After Becoming Sober

It’s not uncommon for individuals to develop depression during the recovery process, which can be an especially troubling experience. After all, making the decision to get sober is a good thing, so it doesn’t make much sense when the person feels worse about themselves than they did before.

When this happens, it’s important to keep in mind that many addicts use drugs and alcohol as a way to keep negative emotions at bay. When such a person is no longer using substances, they are forced to confront their suppressed thoughts and feelings head on, often for the first time in their lives.

There is a growing body of evidence showing that even after 90 days sober, depression symptoms may still persist. Researchers at Yale University have discovered that it takes on average between 90 and 100 days for the brain to fully adjust to sobriety. While it may be painful, going through after-addiction depression is often a necessary part of the healing process.

The Best Addiction and Depression Rehab Strategies

Finding the right treatment plan for someone suffering from addiction and co-occurring depression is not easy. Symptoms of depression like low self-worth, lack of motivation and a desire to isolate oneself can make the work of recovery much harder. And because the symptoms of depression are so similar to the symptoms of withdrawal, an addiction therapist must perform a thorough psychiatric assessment to accurately diagnose a person’s clinical depression.

Once diagnosed with co-occurring depression, clients enrolled in a substance abuse rehabilitation program will be assigned a customized course of treatment. Some of the most effective treatment options for those with co-occurring depression include:

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational interviewing allows clients and therapists to work together in discovering strategies for achieving goals and making positive life changes. Motivational interviewing is especially effective for clients struggling with depression, as they tend to need extra guidance in order to uncover the internal sources of motivation needed to achieve sobriety. This type of therapy typically takes place in a one-on-one setting with a professional therapist.

Holistic Therapies

Activities such as yoga, meditation and physical exercise have a huge impact on treating the symptoms of depression. Rehab programs for co-occurring depression and substance abuse are much more successful when they incorporate holistic therapies during treatment, as recovery is just as much about healing the spirit as it is about healing the body.

The types of therapies will vary from facility to facility, so make so you inquire about the provider’s holistic program before beginning a dual diagnosis treatment program.

 Potential Antidepressant Medications

The most widely used antidepressant drugs are SSRIs like Prozac, Celexa and Zoloft. These medications help the brain produce more serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a major role in mood regulation.

Because SSRI medications can help reduce the harmful symptoms of depression, addiction recovery usually becomes much more manageable. However, you want to make sure to only use this medication for a short amount of time if your treatment team prescribes it to you. SSRIs can be fairly addictive in their own right, so all parties should tread carefully.

Seeking Addiction & Depression Recovery

It can be tough to accept help for your depression, especially when you’re also struggling to accept help for drug or alcohol addiction. But getting treatment for both at the same time through a dual diagnosis rehab program is the best way to get your life back on track.

Learn more about the innovative approach to dual diagnosis treatment at Maryland Recovery, and begin your journey toward a life free from addiction today!

Explore Our Dual Diagnosis Program

The post The Best Way to Deal with Depression in Addiction Recovery appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

Mainstream treatment options for substance addiction vary significantly in duration, services offered, program focus, cost and projected outcomes. Durations can range from as little as 72 hours and to well over a year. Shorter stays generally yield a higher frequency of relapse. Longer stays, using a holistic treatment protocol, coupled with long-term outpatient addiction treatment programs, provide individualized treatment plans with a better chance to sustain a long-term recovery.

Long-term is the crucial idea in long-term addiction treatment and long-term recovery is the goal that all treatment models aim to achieve for their clients. To achieve that objective, it’s important to realize first, that most addictive behaviors have taken place over a sustained period of time, with months or even years to grow into their current state.

Habitual, repetitive and long-term behavior is not easily curbed or stopped, and is even more difficult to control on your own – without a well-crafted substance abuse treatment plan. It is important to seek qualified, professional help in building your recovery plan.

The First Steps In Building A Long-Term Recovery plan

• Realize you need help. Quitting drugs and alcohol isn’t easy. Understanding that a problem exists is the first step to solving that problem.
• Seek help. Asking for help is the next step, and as stated before, there are countless options for you or your loved one to choose from to get that help.
• Research options. Insurance coverage will vary from program to program, but when choosing a treatment plan for substance abuse consider going with a treatment facility that employs a long-term, holistic approach to recovery. Depending on the program you or your loved one chooses, the chances of sustaining your recovery will significantly increase from the onset of treatment, before you even walk through the door.
• Commit for the long haul. Even after the first 30 or 60 days of treatment is complete, many individuals in early recovery are not ready for a full transition back into normal life. Outpatient treatment is an option, utilizing individual and group structured therapy, coupled with AA/NA meetings. Many insurance policies will cover outpatient addiction treatment programs for the first year of sobriety.

Once a patient begins treatment, physical and emotional health typically improves quickly.

• Chemical dependency subsides
• Cognitive functioning increases
• Sleep normalizes
• Diet is regulated
• Social skills return
• Long-term goal setting begins

What’s Next? The Freedom To Dream

With a clear mind, free of addictive substances, most individuals in recovery are given a window into a new world; the ability and the time to explore new ideas, new people, and new opportunities. Our world is filled with endless possibilities, and exploring these ideas, setting realistic goals, mapping out a plan for achievement is paramount to sustain any long-term recovery from substance use.

Start by asking these questions of yourself:

• What makes me happy in life?
• How can I weave that happiness into a career?
• Where do I see myself in thirty days? Six months, a year, three, ten years down the road?

Begin to dream, but it’s important not to lose sight of your short-term objectives as well.

Five Things To Focus On While You Are In Treatment

• Effective recovery centers usually have a medical professional on staff to treat and advise clients. Listen to the advice, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to explore all treatment options. One in three individuals who suffer from addiction also deal with mental health issues. There is no stigma, and there is nothing shameful about exploring options with a physician to improve your mental and emotional health.
• In a typical recovery center you will have access to hundreds of years of lived experience, some professional, some shared, some more valuable than others. Use this time to get to know the staff and your peers, and try to gain insight from their experiences, to help improve your outcomes moving forward.
• Don’t be afraid to speak up and share your own journey, to articulate your own truth to those same staff members and peers. Have a thick skin; not all humans are conditioned alike.
• Process those experiences in group and individual therapy sessions, in social settings at mealtime, and on outings. Talk to your family or loved ones back home – get their feedback as well.
• People who take the time to write out long-term goals, to periodically review, adapt, and update those expectations, are proven to achieve those goals more than individuals who do not take the time to set them.

What To Expect As You Move Into The Next Phase Of Recovery

• There’s an old adage in recovery: people, places and things. The more you update your new life from your old, avoiding the people, places and things that either enabled, or propelled your action, the greater your outlook for long-term, sustainable recovery will be.
• It is important to think of addiction recovery treatment as a life-long endeavor. Whether it’s 72 hours of detox, a 90 day rehab, or more than a year of inpatient care, the addiction is not cured. In fact, the addiction is never cured. Typically, successful patients regularly attend support group meetings (AA/NA), connect with a sponsor, and manage their recovery through those outlets for the rest of their lives.
• Secondary Aftercare. The resources that support groups provide are highly effective, and extremely important in maintaining sobriety. However, research indicates that those resources are not always enough. Establishing a secondary, unbiased, medical or psychological professional as a supplement to support groups, enhances the probability for long-term sobriety. In this relationship, you’re getting a trained, certified professional; and the action is transactional. Unlike support groups, when a monetary transaction is involved, there is a fiduciary duty for the therapist or psychiatrist, or life coach to serve your best interests.

To Sum Up

Research. When you’re ready to take the first step, and start changing your life or the life of someone you love, research your options for addiction care and drug treatment programs. Consider choosing extended rehab care with a holistic recovery center. Those treatment facilities not only address acute chemical dependence (detox needs), they will also treat the whole person – the mental, social, emotional issues that have contributed to the addiction.

Engage. Once in treatment, take every class, every peer, and every therapist or doctor as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Set goals. Write out your long-term goals and objectives, share them with your therapist or caseworker; talk about those goals with your friends and family members. Take criticism, refine your plan, and never sell yourself short.

Comprehensive Aftercare. Addiction is a chronic, in-curable disease; it is however, manageable, and the best way to ensure long-term sobriety is to employ as many resources as possible. Remember, professional advice and care is key to maintaining your recovery.

The post Customized Drug Rehab Strategy: Building a Long Term Addiction Rehab and Recovery Plan appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

Maryland has had its first case of poisoning from synthetic marijuana that can be tied to the rash of frightening poisonings seen in Illinois. On the heels of this case, Maryland health officials are warning residents to beware of the products, and reiterate the message that these illegal drugs are dangerous and deadly.

The drugs in question are synthetic cannabinoids – also known as “spice” or synthetic marijuana. Products of this type have been banned in the state of Maryland since Maryland enacted a tough criminal ban on synthetic marijuana products in October of 2013.

As of April 17^th, Baltimore Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen resounded the warnings of other U.S. health officials. “We want to warn all of our residents of the warning signs of someone who may have taken synthetic cannabinoids, and urge anyone who witnesses these symptoms to call 911 or take the individual to the ER immediately,” said Doctor Wen.

The Dangers of Synthetic Marijuana and Synthetic Cannabinoids

The compounds in various forms of synthetic marijuana change often – a tactic the drug manufacturers utilize to try and stay ahead of strict drug laws and avoid the harsh penalties. This has led to some very serious health issues in users, who never know exactly what chemical composition they are actually using. This latest composition has proved to be more deadly than past formulas, leaving 3 dead and more than 80 cases of severe bleeding in the Chicago area.

Officials say that Brodifacoum – a common ingredient in rat poison — was found in the batches in Illinois, and Maryland Poison Center fears there could be more cases like this coming in the Maryland area. The poison causes uncontrolled bleeding – as it is an anticoagulant.

Symptoms of Dangerous Synthetic Marijuana Batches 

Residents of Maryland are being told to look out for the tell-tale signs of synthetic cannabinoids use, including:

• Anxiety
• Bleeding from the Gums
• Blood in Urine/Stool
• Excessive Bruising
• Elevated Blood Pressure
• Excessive Back Pain
• Excessive Bleeding or Hemorrhaging
• Excessive Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
• Nosebleeds
• Seizures
• Suicidal or Harmful Thoughts and Actions
• Vomiting Blood
• Death

More Information from the Baltimore City Health Department

Additionally, while the sale of these products is illegal under Maryland State Law, some businesses continue to sell the previously unregulated synthetic marijuana products. Officials are asking the public to help identify any businesses that are still selling the products, and businesses can be reported by dialing 311.

In cases of ingestion of any form of synthetic marijuana, get help immediately. Call 911 for emergencies, and you can get #POISONHELP from Maryland Poison Center direct to your phone.

The post Synthetic Marijuana and Synthetic Cannabinoids: Health Warning Issued for Baltimore and State of Maryland appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

The United States is combatting the opioid crisis on several fronts. At the legislative level, lawmakers have begun regulating the dispersal of prescription opioid drugs. In New Jersey, for instance, a law passed in 2017 now limits the initial prescription fill on any opioid-based medication to 5 pills – a proactive first step to regulate doctors, and one that will hopefully reduce dependency for new patients.

Law enforcement at the local, state and federal level, are also working to stop the illegal importation of large quantities of narcotics, such as fentanyl, from countries like Mexico and China – a noble effort to reduce the supply of these highly addictive drugs on America’s streets.

But the primary and most effective means to curb addiction and reduce overdoses will likely stem from recovery-based initiatives – specifically by increasing substance abuse and mental health funding and passing parity legislation requiring private insurers to better cover treatment, thereby increasing access to patients in need of recovery services.

In 2016 there were 2056 opioid deaths in New Jersey – ranking as the 10^th deadliest state for fatal overdoses. In response, last year Governor Christie signed a law increasing insurance coverage for 30% of the state’s residents and increasing New Jersey addiction help, to better cover treatment options. In September of the same year the Governor allocated $200 million aimed at increasing New Jersey addiction treatment access – including $40 million earmarked for Medicaid and Medicare services (lower income).

According to the statewide Substance Abuse Overview Report – as of May 2017, there were 76,509 treatment admissions in the state of New Jersey.

Top Five New Jersey Counties

Of the 21 counties in New Jersey, five counties (Ocean, Camden, Essex, Monmouth and Middlesex) made up over half (56.6%) of the total New Jersey addiction treatment admissions. Four of these counties are in the bottom half of per capita income, and two are in the bottom quadrant. Residents seeking New Jersey heroin rehab were most common in these counties.

Substance Abuse Treatment Admissions, 2016 State of New Jersey Top 5 Counties:

Camden6,5998.9%

Poverty and Addiction

Many believe there is a high correlation between the instances of substance abuse and poverty. There is certainly a statistical correlation, though addiction is proven to affect individuals from all walks of life, ethnicities, class levels, educational level, occupations, gender and sexuality. According to the National Council on Drug Abuse, the strongest prevalent correlation linking addiction and poverty is the lack of resources disadvantaged individuals have in seeking adequate treatment. If it’s harder for a distant population to seek treatment, obviously there would be a higher prevalence of substance use in that population. Which is why Gov. Christie’s allocations to Medicaid and Medicare are so important in this battle.

Incarceration: Addiction And Mental Health

According to a 2006 Bureau of Justice Statistics Report, it was estimated that over half of the U.S. jail and prison population had symptoms of serious mental illness as indicated by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). A 2004 report indicated that in the state prison population, 47% of violent offenders, 52% of drug offenders and 27% of property owners reported either drug dependence/abuse, and/or exhibited symptoms of serious mental illness.

Historically, jails and prisons have become de-facto mental health and substance use treatment centers, with correctional officers unwillingly placed in the role of mediator, facilitator, and caregiver – most with little or no formal training in social work, case management, or behavioral health care. New Jersey heroin addiction has been outpacing New Jersey heroin rehabs and now New Jersey is working to fix that.

Inmate Drug Treatment Programs

In May of 2017, Governor Christie allocated $20 million to reconstitute a shuttered prison facility at Fort Dix and convert the complex into a 700 bed, acute drug treatment center for male jail and prison inmates. A similar 65-bed women’s program has recently opened at Edna Mahan Correctional Facility in Union Township. Both programs are medium security and provide inmates with access to medication-assisted treatment, 12-step programs, and case management services. Should the program yield successful results, backers of the initiative believe the facilities at Fort Dix and Edna Mahan could serve as a model for states nationwide to replicate.

The United States has a long history of criminalizing drug addiction, but some cities in the U.S. are taking an outside the box approach to those suffering.

Treatment Models In Major Western Cities – Non-Criminalizing

Over the past five years, alternative substance abuse treatment models have emerged, specifically related to the opioid epidemic, centering on the creation of “safe havens” for drug users, operating now in major cities like Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Denver. Within these “safe havens,” drug use is essentially overlooked, clean needles are provided for users, and these spaces are staffed by counselors and medical personnel supplied with life-saving medication to treat overdoses and to ultimately prevent death.

Taking a more practical approach, these centers ease a user into recovery, keeping him or her as safe as possible while fighting the addiction. At the same time, they isolate the drug use and the corresponding crime associated therein, into one segregated locale, within any given community, minimizing the exposure to other residents, in particular ,the exposure to children.

Recovery Treatment Is The Right Choice

With every opioid dose, the risk of death or serious harm to a user increases. Drug and Alcohol addiction is not sustainable. Maryland Recovery fully supports our neighbors in New Jersey, and across the country. We support the doctors, nurses, therapists and social workers on the front lines battling this crisis. And we support the efforts of governors and lawmakers who are taking commonsense steps to open access to treatment for everyone who asks for help.

At Maryland Recovery, we offer a helping hand to all the New Jersey families struggling with addiction and offer treatment options for anyone in recovery.

Get More Info About Our Programs

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Trying to help a loved-one overcome a drug or alcohol abuse disorder is hard, and when that person is also struggling with a co-occurring mental health condition, it’s easy to give in to feelings of hopelessness and despair. However, the professionals at many dual diagnosis treatment centers understand how substance abuse and mental health disorders frequently go hand in hand. These experts understand that the only way to overcome addiction is by treating the problem at its source, which is very often an undiagnosed psychological issue.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common mental health disorders faced by American adults, as well as how they relate to issues with substance abuse.

Depression and Substance Abuse

The National Institute of Mental Health has estimated that nearly 7 percent of American adults suffer from a major depressive disorder. When compared to the population as a whole, men and women who have been diagnosed with major depression are between 3 to 4 times as likely to develop a dependence on alcohol in their lifetime.

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Depressed mood nearly all of the day for at least 5 days per week, for a period of at least 2 weeks
• Loss of interest in activities that were once found enjoyable
• Either sleeping too much or too little for an extended period of time
• Significant changes in body weight and appetite
• Impaired concentration and thinking ability
• Recurring thoughts about or attempts of self-harm or suicide
• Constant feelings of guilt, shame, and worthlessness
• Excessive feelings of fatigue and tiredness on an almost daily basis

Anxiety Disorders and Substance Abuse

Individuals suffering from an anxiety disorder experience overwhelming feelings of worry, nervousness, and fear. These feelings make it extremely difficult to cope with the stresses and challenges of day-to-day life.

People with panic disorders frequently turn to drugs with depressive effects such as alcohol, opiates, and benzos as a way to self-medicate their symptoms. Over time, this pattern of substance abuse frequently develops into a physical addiction.

Common warning signs that a loved one suffers from an anxiety disorder include:

• Difficulty relaxing or sitting still
• Elevated heart rate or heart palpitations
• Constant and intrusive feelings of uneasiness, worry, fear, and panic
• Muscle tension and sore muscles
• Insomnia
• Shortness of breath
• Episodes of dizziness, nausea, or vomiting

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Abuse

A study performed at The National Drug and Alcohol Research Center in Sydney, Australia reports that between 50 to 66 percent of individuals experiencing a drug or alcohol abuse disorder also suffer from PTSD. There are a number of events and experiences that can trigger the development of PTSD, including:

• Witnessing the sudden death of a friend or family member
• Military combat
• Serious automobile accidents
• Living through a natural disaster
• Being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness
• Sexual and physical abuse, especially during childhood

Common signs that someone has developed PTSD include:

• Re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts
• Avoiding others, especially those associated with the traumatic event
• Behavioral changes such as aggressive outbursts and engaging in reckless actions
• Sudden and unpredictable mood swings
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Depression and suicidal thoughts or actions

Due to the risk of re-traumatizing the patient, managing both PTSD and substance abuse treatment at the same should only be done by professionals with experience in dual diagnosis treatment.

ADHD and Substance Abuse

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental condition associated with an inability to pay attention, excessive physical and cognitive activity, and poor impulse control. A growing body of evidence has shown that there is a strong connection between ADHD and substance abuse disorders. In fact, alcoholism has been found to be between 5 to 10 times more common in those with ADHD than in those without the condition.

The symptoms of ADHD include:

• Difficulty completing tasks
• Impulsive behavior
• Difficulty paying attention
• Forgetfulness
• Constantly losing or misplacing personal items
• Restlessness and constant fidgeting

Because ADHD negatively impacts so many areas of life performance, it frequently triggers the development of other mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Substance Abuse

OCD is a type of panic disorder characterized by a compulsive need to complete various rituals and patterns of behavior. Those with OCD often fear that failing to complete these rituals will have disastrous consequences, such as the death or illness of a loved one. Many people with OCD will turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate these intrusive thoughts, leading to a rate of substance abuse that is almost twice that of the general population.

Signs that a loved-one may suffer from OCD include:

• An obsessive fear of germs and illness
• The need to maintain perfect symmetry and order of their surroundings
• An inability to go on with their day if certain rituals are not completed
• Excessively checking to make sure the door is locked, the lights are off, their hands are clean, etc.
• Constant intrusive thoughts about taboo subjects, such as sex or violence.

Panic Disorders and Substance Abuse

A person with a panic disorder experiences recurrent and unpredictable panic attacks. Panic attacks are different from generalized anxiety and are characterized by heart palpitation, profuse sweating, numbness, shortness of breath, and an impending sense of doom. Other common symptoms of panic disorder include:

• Feeling detached
• Constant fear of losing control
• Frequently experiencing hot flashes or chills
• Frequently feeling faint, dizzy, or nauseous
• Sudden discomfort in the chest

People with panic disorders frequently isolate themselves from others to avoid suffering from a panic attack in public.  Panic disorder sufferers often live in a constant state of fear, as they may experience an episode of panic with little to no warning.

Turning to drugs or alcohol to cope with these symptoms quickly becomes a vicious cycle, as many of the substances used for self-medication can themselves trigger the onset of a panic attack.

Schizophrenia and Substance Abuse

Schizophrenia is a severe form of mental illness affecting roughly 1 percent of American adults. Schizophrenia is known to cause a wide range of problems, primarily with regulating thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.

Telltale signs of Schizophrenia include:

• Thoughts and beliefs that are not based in reality. This can include delusions of being monitored or followed, or the belief that someone is trying to communicate through coded messages.
• Auditory and visual hallucinations, the most common example of which is hearing voices. In severe cases, the hallucinations can take the form of an entirely separate reality.
• Disorganized and incoherent thinking. People with schizophrenia often speak in “word salad,” where words are strung together seemingly at random.
• Behavioral changes such as mood swings, aggression, social isolation, and neglecting personal hygiene.

Almost 50 percent of people with schizophrenia will abuse drugs or alcohol in their lifetime. That’s a rate of substance abuse nearly 5 times greater than in the general population of the U.S.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Maryland

If you or a loved one is suffering from a substance abuse disorder as well as a co-occurring mental illness, don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our team at Maryland Recovery today. Our east coast dual diagnosis treatment programs can help get you started on the path towards lifelong recovery.

Get More Information About Our Innovative Dual Diagnosis Treatment

The post Getting Help for a Loved One With Mental Health Issues and Substance Abuse appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

When someone has an addiction and a mental health illness, it is called a dual diagnosis. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about one-third of people dealing with a substance abuse problem also suffer from some form of mental illness.

Mental illness and addiction are common, treatable conditions that many people are able to overcome. Some of the most common mental health conditions are depression and anxiety, but the term covers everything from panic attacks to schizophrenia.

Many addictions involve alcohol, prescription drugs and street drugs, but can include pathological gambling, sex addiction and eating disorders.

Types of Co-occurring Disorders

Dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorders, can comprise any type of addiction plus any type of mental health disorder. Here are some examples of conditions that qualify as comorbidities:

• Heroin use and depression
• Meth use and anxiety
• Abuse of prescription drugs and borderline personality disorder
• Crack cocaine and schizophrenia
• Ecstasy and sex addiction
• Alcohol and pathological gambling
• Cocaine use and bulimia

There is an undeniable connection between addiction and mental health. For decades, treatment addressed only one diagnosis at a time. People were required to get clean and sober and then start a new treatment program that addressed mental health conditions. Now, we realize that the best way to treat co-occurring disorders is to deal with them concurrently.

The interconnected nature of mental health and addiction necessitate a simultaneous recovery process. Any other plan just doesn’t work.

Dual Diagnosis Facts

Dual diagnosis cases are much more common than many people realize. Here are some notable stats from SAMHSA on the interwoven nature of mental disorders and substance use disorder:

• More than 43 million adults in America experience some type of mental illness.
• More than 20 million adults experience substance use disorder.
• About 8 million people have disorders from both groups.
• 50 percent of dual diagnosis patients do not receive treatment for either disorder.

Lack of treatment for symptoms can drive people to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol, and when someone falls prey to substance abuse, symptoms of one disorder tend to accentuate symptoms of the other. Mental disorders frequently co-occur with each other, as well as with substance use disorders.

The Impact of Trauma on Mental Health and Addiction

Trauma has a significant impact on our moods and our brains. Even years after a traumatic experience, people can suffer emotionally and psychologically. This type of suffering causes difficulties with mental stability and a desire to self-medicate to feel better.

When trauma is left untreated, a person often represses his or her painful memories to survive. Past trauma affects  one’s:

• Worldview
• Views on other people
• How people behave in stressful situations
• Self-esteem level

Because trauma intertwines mental disorders with addictions, it makes sense to use an integrated approach to therapy.

Co-occurring Disorders Treatment

Finding a dual diagnosis treatment program that includes therapy for both conditions is important. Many rehabilitation facilities are not capable of handling dual diagnosis patients. Therapy for simultaneous treatment of both diagnoses is still a relatively new concept.

Substance abuse is often rooted in psychiatric or emotional difficulties. Therefore, treating only the symptoms of drug abuse while leaving mental health conditions unresolved leaves patients struggling with the same issues that caused them to take substances.

Conversely, substance abuse is known to cause depression, anxiety and other mental health problems. The longer someone indulges in drugs, alcohol or other addictive habits, the more potential damage is done to the brain.

Integrated, simultaneous therapy proves to be the best, most effective rehabilitation treatment available today. Dual diagnosis patients are known to be a higher risk for violence, relapse, overdose and suicide.

Dual diagnosis patients require:

• Extra care
• Individualized treatment plans
• Longer rehab and aftercare

Since they are more difficult to treat, patients with a dual diagnosis need specialized attention and individualized care to achieve success in recovery.

Coping with Emotional Pain

Emotional pain is one of the biggest reasons people abuse drugs or alcohol and fall into addiction. Managing feelings is one of the most difficult tasks for people who have not learned coping skills. Turning to substances seems easier to dull the pain, and for a time, it does feel good. But soon, life becomes unmanageable and the consequences of drug use rob people of their lives.

In rehab centers that address comorbidity, patients learn how to effectively deal with their feelings and do the hard work that emotional sobriety requires. Once a person has the tools to process their feelings and work through them with healthy coping skills, they can let go of addiction(s) and begin their recovery.

Dual Diagnosis Help for Families

Family members want to help their loved ones get well, but often don’t know where to start. The average family isn’t well versed in psychiatric conditions, but there are signs and symptoms you can look for in order to help your loved one.

Signs and symptoms of addiction and mental health problems:

• Isolating behavior
• Decline in attendance and grades at school or work
• Lying and stealing (missing valuables around the house)
• Hearing, seeing or believing in things that are not real
• Dramatic shifts in mood and energy
• Insomnia or sleeping all the time
• Disinterest in personal hygiene
• Reckless and risky behavior
• Family history of addiction or mental illness

Dual Diagnosis Rehab

With so many people affected by co-occurring disorders, rehab centers are realizing the need to incorporate mental health therapy into their programs for addiction. Both disorders require equal attention.

The choice of a rehab center is an important decision that you should not make lightly. It can have a long-lasting impact on your life, for good or bad. To complicate matters, people suffering from addiction and mental health issues often struggle to make good decisions. They need a loving family member to guide them in finding the right help.

Maryland Recovery offers top-notch treatment for both addiction and mental health. We are one of the most comprehensive long-term dual diagnosis facilities on the East Coast. Mental health conditions and addictions can require a lifetime of recovery. The longer your treatment, the more favorable the statistics are for a successful recovery and minimized chance of relapse. Maryland Recovery offers the necessary long-term care, providing families with a solid foundation.

Read About Our Dual Diagnosis Program

The post The Importance of Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Successful Addiction Recovery appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

Sometimes I can’t leave my house. I want to. I want to take my son to the movies and go on lunch dates. I want to shop at Walmart without sweating, rushing and having to take my father or brother with me.

But I can’t. The fear is paralyzing, terrifying. Mustering up the courage to go anywhere at all, even when people go with me, proves to be a challenge I often fail. My anxiety nails board upon board until my house is all boarded up and my gumption lost.

I have agoraphobia.

Agoraphobia

The fear of situations or places that trigger feelings of intense fear, panic, helplessness, embarrassment or entrapment.

The fear of having a panic attack in a situation where it would be challenging or embarrassing to escape characterizes this type of phobia. Often triggered by past panic attacks or traumatic events that happened in a similar place or circumstance, agoraphobia causes sufferers to exhibit avoidance behaviors and can keep its victims prisoners in their own homes.

Agoraphobia is much more common in women than in men.

Substance Use Disorder

The recurrent use of alcohol or drugs leading to significant distress, clinical and functional impairment.

Addiction and dependence are products of substance use disorder, with addiction representing the most severe form of the disorder. Characterized by the activation of the brain’s reward center, substance abuse causes people to neglect other activities and responsibilities in favor of taking drugs (or alcohol).

Parallel Disorders

Agoraphobia is one of the many phobias classified as anxiety disorders. It’s worth taking a closer look at anxiety disorders and then exploring the similarities and differences between agoraphobia and codependency.

Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by excessive fear and worry.

Anxiety disorders exceed normal worries and fears. They are the most common mental disorders and affect approximately 30 percent of adults at some point in their lives.

Excessive anxiety usually involves worry about the future in a way that is disproportional to the real risk. It lasts at least several months and becomes irrational, consuming fear about what could happen. Unhealthy anxiety can also occur when there is no real problem to worry about.

Codependency

The emotional and psychological reliance on a partner for one’s self-worth, approval and identity.

People with codependency often have relationships that are emotionally destructive. The codependent’s partner has poor mental health, addiction issues, emotional immaturity, underachievement or irresponsibility. For these reasons, the codependent’s partner requires excessive support, care and coddling, even.

Often, a person with codependency is an enabler to their partner’s addiction, illness or other character defects. Being a caregiver becomes her role (codependents are more often females), and there is a part of her, some postulate, that wants this dysfunctional role to continue.

The Interrelatedness of Agoraphobia and Panic, Anxiety Disorders and Codependency

In many cases, people develop agoraphobia because of a traumatic event, and they fear it will happen again in a similar circumstance. For instance, people who experience a panic attack in public will begin to fear it will repeat itself, and thus exhibit avoidance behaviors.

In many ways, agoraphobia is a severe type of anxiety disorder.

Another similarity is in someone with codependency. Codependents rely on others for emotional support and for their identity. When a relationship ends, a codependent person can have a sharp increase in anxieties and loss of self-worth.

When someone is used to always going out with their partner, suddenly having to go alone can feel overwhelming. A codependent feels lost. Anxiety and panic easily follow.

Distinguishing Agoraphobia from Other Anxiety Disorders

Some agoraphobics fear the embarrassment of having a panic attack in public. Panic attacks can be disabling, acute and make a person feel like they are going to die – but they only last a short time. Agoraphobia is ongoing and lasts at least six months.

There are many types of anxiety disorders, most characterized by excessive fear and worry. Consider aerophobia, the fear of flying, which is limited to one particular type of situation that hinders a person’s life. Contrasted with the fear of leaving the house, aerophobia is a much more specific type of anxiety and not so all-encompassing.

Agoraphobia and Substance Abuse

Individuals dealing with fears of going out or being in public places or circumstances, such as being stuck in a crowd, are at increased risk of abusing drugs and alcohol. Some individuals have become dependent on alcohol or drugs to relax enough to be able to get out of the house at all.

Agoraphobics have a very high rate of alcoholism. Researchers attribute this increased rate-per-demographic to the propensity for self-medicating the emotional pain that agoraphobics experience.

The longer someone has untreated agoraphobia, the higher risk they have of their anxiety disorder leading to alcohol and drug use or other mental illnesses (such as personality disorders).

Dual Diagnosis: Agoraphobia and Addiction

All too often, anxiety goes hand in hand with addiction. These co-occurring disorders are very common. People suffering from anxiety seek relief with self-medication like alcohol. Alcohol is very addictive, and it doesn’t take long for someone to find themselves down the road toward alcoholism.

Oftentimes, those suffering from anxiety and addiction find their anxieties increase after quitting drugs and alcohol. This makes relapse more common among those with a dual diagnosis. Without ongoing long-term care and therapy, those with agoraphobic behaviors or panic attacks and substance use disorder are a high risk for relapse.

The Best Agoraphobia Treatment Plan

If you or a loved one begins to experience fears of going to certain places or being in particular settings, practice going to those places before the fear becomes overwhelming. The more a person succumbs to those fears, the worse the condition becomes. If you or a family member has developed irrational fears or exaggerated worries, get help as soon as possible.

If you have someone close to you whom you suspect is dealing with these kinds of issues, most likely they will have trouble reaching out for help. It’s the nature of these disorders. They will need your help to take the first step toward recovery.

Maryland Recovery’s extensive expertise in treating people suffering from agoraphobia and addiction proves to be an unparalleled rehabilitation experience. A dual diagnosis of agoraphobia and substance use disorder is something we see quite regularly at Maryland Recovery.

Our specialists understand and empathize with what your loved one is going through. We are here to help people by offering emotional support and the necessary tools for recovery. Our caring staff brings an unmatched level of care in treating dual diagnosis clients.

The program at Maryland Recovery can help your loved one unearth core issues in relation to anxiety disorders and addiction. Dual diagnosis requires long-term care and continuing support to achieve successful recovery and healing. Your loved one is facing a very difficult period of life. Help alleviate their suffering; the longer you wait, the harder anxiety disorders are to treat.

See Our Anxiety Disorders Fact Sheet

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The area of Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Virginia have been hit especially hard by the opioid crisis in America. While Virginia isn’t the worst state in the U.S. when it comes to opioid overdoses and deaths – West Virginia was the hardest hit – Virginia has seen record increases in the amount of people addicted to and seeking addiction treatment for opioid addiction in Virginia.

How the Opioid Epidemic is affecting the State of Virginia

2016 was the worst year on record for accidental drug deaths and overdoses from heroin and opioids. More than 63,600 people died from overdoses in 2016 in the United States, increasing from 52,400 in the previous year (2015).

In Virginia, overdose deaths numbered 16.7 per 100,000 residents; or 13.7 per 100,000 – when adjusted for age. That is a 149% increase in drug-related overdose deaths in Virginia since 2006. The age group hit hardest by overdoses is the 35-44 year age groups, and Tazewell County was the hardest hit area.

Mental Health Issues Worsening the Opioid and Addiction Problem in Virginia

While the opioid crisis in America was worsened by over-prescribing, and what has been called a systematic failure of our health system to look out for the best interest of patients, researchers are now pointing their fingers toward a rampant mental health crisis as a secondary cause to the increase in addiction and deaths.

Addiction Treatment Specialists have long-known the connection between poor mental health, substance abuse, and addiction. While many addiction treatment facilities now offer mental health treatment as a part of addiction treatment – also called dual diagnosis treatment or substance abuse treatment for co-occurring disorders – a general lack of mental health treatment and lack of affordable dual diagnosis programs has worsened the epidemic.

“Dual diagnosis treatment programs have been shown to be more effective at treating both addiction and the underlying mental health disorders that worsen substance abuse, and offer better relapse prevention than traditional treatment clinics without mental health counseling.”

Virginia State Opioid Policies

• As of 2018, all Virginia counties have completed a CDC consultation on risk factors for opioid addiction and HIV/Hepatitis risk.
• Syringe Exchange Programs are currently legal in the State of Virginia.
• In the State of Virginia, prescribers are currently required to check Virginia PDMP prescription drug monitoring databases before prescribing any type of opioid medication.
• The Virginia Board of Medicine adopted emergency regulations 18 VAC 85-21-10 on Mandatory Prescribing Regulations for Treating Pain and Addiction. These emergency regulations set new guidelines for opioid and buprenorphine prescriptions.

Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse

Virginia Opioid Statistics

Heroin and other opioids have caused catastrophic increases in early deaths in the state of Virginia. In addition to heroin deaths increasing tenfold from 2010 to 2016 (from 45 deaths to 450 deaths), deaths related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl and the extremely deadly elephant tranquilizer Carfentanil rose from 87 deaths to 648 in 2016.

Opioid-Related Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) in Newborns in Virginia

The rate of drug addicted babies born to mothers addicted to opioids has been increasing rapidly alongside the increases in opioid use attributed to the opioid epidemic. Cases of NAS have been especially high on the East Coast in States like Maryland, Massachusetts, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

773 babies were born addicted to opioids in Virginia in 2016. That is a rate of 8 cases per 1000 births – well above the National average of 6.0 cases per 1000 births.

Opioid Overdose Statistics in Virginia

2016

• Drug overdose deaths in Virginia increase from 1,005 deaths in 2015 to 1,387 in 2016 – a 38% increase. ***
• Heroin overdose deaths in Virginia increased from 339 in 2015 to 451 in 2016. ***
• Overdose deaths in Virginia due to natural and semi-synthetic opioids increased from 270 deaths in 2015 to 346 deaths in 2016. ***
• Methadone-related overdose deaths in Virginia actually decrease from 2015 to 2016, with 73 deaths attributed to methadone in 2015 and 70 deaths in 2016. ***
• Synthetic opioid overdose deaths increased the most from 2015 to 2016, with 263 deaths attributed to synthetic opioids in 2015 and 692 deaths in 2016 (Methadone not considered in these figures). ***
• Fairfax County, VA reported 108 drug related overdose deaths, the most deaths in a single county in Virginia. **
• Albermarle County reported 38 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 3.4 deaths per capita. *
• Buckingham County reported 9 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 4.9 deaths per capita. *
• Charlottesville reported 28 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 5.7 deaths per capita. *
• Greene County reported 8 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 3.9 deaths per capita. *
• Louisa County reported 28 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 7.6 deaths per capita. *
• Madison County reported 16 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 10.9 deaths per capita. *
• Nelson County reported 11 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 6.7 deaths per capita. *
• Organge County reported 66 opioid-related deaths between 2007 and 2017, 17.6 deaths per capita. *
• An average of 21 residents of the Thomas Jefferson Health District (Charlottesville and the Counties of Albermarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson) are treated for accidental opioid overdoses each month in Virginia. *

*** Statistics sourced from the CDC Provisional Counts of Drug Overdose Deaths Report (As of 08/06/2017)
** Statistics sourced from the American Foundation for Aids Research Opioid & Health Indicators Database
* Statistics sourced from the Virginia Department of Health

The Need for Addiction Treatment and Addiction Rehab Recovery in Virginia

According to the American Foundation for Aids Research, which diligently follows intravenous drug use risks and trends, 90.9% of addicts that need treatment do not receive any treatment at all (2014 statistics) – this is despite the 194 drug addiction treatment facilities in Virginia.

Further, only 199 addiction cases per 100,000 in Virginia resulted in inpatient addiction treatment – compared to the National average of 251. So why don’t more addicts seek treatment for their addictions? One reason has to do with insurance.

Even though the Affordable Care Act mandated that insurance must cover certain addiction treatment practices in its coverage, reimbursement rates are still quite low, and not all treatment programs are covered under insurance. The State of Virginia – realizing that the low imbursement rates were worsening the opioid epidemic in Virginia – set an example for other states, by creating the Addiction and Recovery Treatment Services (ARTS) program. This program led to an increase of 26% of Medicaid members seeking treatment for opioid addiction.

Addiction Treatment Options on the East Coast

Even with the State of Virginia working quickly to try and make opioid addiction treatment in Virginia more accessible to families, there is certainly a shortage of quality opioid addiction rehabs and addiction recovery programs in Virginia.

Even when families find addiction treatment programs in Virginia that treat opioid addiction, those programs may not meet the needs of their loved one. Programs that treat dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders can be difficult to find in the area, and finding a program that is based on detox and long-term recovery can be even more challenging to find – as many of the opioid and heroin rehab clinics in the area focus on opioid maintenance and opioid replacement, rather than addiction recovery with a focus on sobriety.

At Maryland Recovery, our dual diagnosis holistic opioid addiction treatment program is available to East Coast families from Virginia and neighboring states that are looking for a family-focused and evidence-based rehab program with the goal of getting a loved one completely off drugs. Our long-term addiction recovery program is not a program of maintenance, which simply replaces drugs with medications.

Our program aims to get your loved one clean and sober through long-term recovery planning. If your family has been searching for Virginia rehab options and haven’t found the best fit for your loved one, we invite you to take an assessment of our program. We would love for our family of addiction specialists to be able to help your family in your time of need.

Contact Us Today

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Ninety-five residents of New Haven, Connecticut are being treated for what is suspected to be overdosing on synthetic marijuana and possibly fentanyl. Early reports describe a chaotic scene in the New Haven Green, a downtown New Haven city park just west of Wooster Square.

For emergency crews treating those at the scene, this appeared to be much more than simply synthetic marijuana overdoses – based on the severity of the symptoms and how quickly the overdoses took place. To emergency responders, this scene had all of the hallmarks of opioid overdoses.

Synthetic Marijuana Laced with Fentanyl and Synthetic Opioids

DEA officers and Dr. Kathryn Hawk of Yale New Haven Hospital confirmed emergency crews’ suspicions that opioids were involved. In at least one sample, they found that K2 “spice” – a form of synthetic marijuana – had been mixed with fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid.

Synthetic marijuana by itself contains dangerous chemicals that can cause a host of reactions, side effects and symptoms. Worse, synthetic marijuana is often contaminated or laced with additional chemicals that can compound the dangerous effects. Recently, a different batch of tainted synthetic marijuana sickened dozens in Maryland. Investigators found that the Maryland batch of synthetic cannabis was tainted with rat poison.

The most frightening aspect of the latest batch in Connecticut is that it was tainted with fentanyl, a substance so strong and deadly that it is considered as a weapon of mass destruction and treated as a potential chemical hazard in situations of exposure.

Preventing Synthetic Marijuana and Synthetic Opioid Overdoses

The best way to prevent exposure to fentanyl is to avoid illicit drugs like synthetic and unregulated illicit marijuana, and to know and recognize the symptoms of overdose. Quick response and the use of naloxone – an opioid overdose reversal drug – can save a person’s like if they have been exposed to opioids like fentanyl.

 Signs and Symptoms of Synthetic Marijuana Overdose

• Sudden, Extreme Hyperactivity and/or Lethargy
• Sudden Behavioral Changes
• Sudden Outbursts of Anger or Physical Aggression
• Heart Palpitations
• Chest Pains
• Muscle Spasms and Seizures
• Sudden, Extreme Drop or Increase in Blood Pressure
• Severe Headache
• Panic Attacks, Anxiety and Irritability
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Paranoia, Psychosis and Psychotic Outbursts
• Confusion and Disorientation
• Delusion
• Altered Perception
• Depersonalization, Dissociative Behaviors (feeling unconnected to self or to others)
• Elevate Moods and Mood Swings

While the symptoms of synthetic cannabis overdose can vary, depending on what chemical makeup the product contains, generally the most dangerous symptoms of overdose are brain injury, stroke, seizure and self-harm.

Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Overdose 

• Slowed Breathing
• Low Blood Pressure
• Low Heart Rate
• Pale Face/Skin
• Confusion or Impaired Cognitive Function
• Dizziness, Fainting or Blacking Out
• Slurred or Slowed Speech
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Purple Lips, Fingers or Extremities
• Constricted Pupils

 The most life-threatening symptom of fentanyl overdose – as with any opioid overdose – is suppressed breathing function, which leads to lack of oxygen in the brain (hypoxia), which can lead to brain damage and death.

 Connecticut Fentanyl and Opioid Overdose Death Statistics 

2012

• 195 Overdose Deaths Involving Opioids
• 14 Overdose Deaths Involving Fentanyl

2013

• 286 Overdose Deaths Involving Opioids
• 37 Overdose Deaths Involving Fentanyl

2014

• 349 Overdose Deaths Involving Opioids
• 75 Overdose Deaths Involving Fentanyl

2015

• 446 Overdose Deaths Involving Opioids
• 189 Overdose Deaths Involving Fentanyl

2016

• 541 Overdose Deaths Involving Opioids
• 483 Overdose Deaths Involving Fentanyl

2017 

• 498 Overdose Deaths Involving Opioids
• 677 Overdose Deaths Involving Fentanyl

*All statistics sourced from the Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner: ct.gov/ocme

Updates on the New Haven, Connecticut Synthetic Marijuana Overdose

“Do not come down to the Green and purchase this K2. It is taking people out very quickly, people having respiratory failure. Don’t put your life in harm.”
– Anthony Campbell, New Haven Police Chief

The Latest Updates from New Haven, Connecticut 

• Three arrests have now been made in the case of over 90 overdoses from synthetic marijuana.
• Officials are now saying that even though at least one test came up positive for fentanyl the first day, the majority of the overdoses did not involve opioids or fentanyl. The majority of the 90-plus overdoses appear to be spurred by an extraordinarily strong batch of synthetic marijuana/K2.

The post Synthetic Marijuana Laced with Fentanyl May Be to Blame for 90-Plus Overdoses in New Haven, Connecticut appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

The world has only recently begun to recognize the serious and long-lasting effects that traumatic experiences have on an individual. The effects of trauma and PTSD have long been seen in trauma survivors, but the medical community simply did not know how to address the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or how to give care for those afflicted with its symptoms.

Today, trauma-informed care offers a better standard of care for those suffering from PTSD and trauma, but the general public, PTSD sufferers, and the families of PTSD sufferers still need to be educated on why this additional level care is needed.

What is Trauma Informed Care?

Trauma-informed care is simply an organizational structure, treatment framework, and model for treatment that is specific to the needs of those who have experienced trauma, traumatic experiences, are suffering from PTSD, or are suffering from trauma-related mental, physical and emotional symptoms.

The ultimate goal of trauma-informed care is to provide treatment to an individual for an underlying condition, while:

• Realizing – that trauma has a wide impact on an individual, and can affect individuals in a multitude of ways. Trauma-informed counselor should also REALIZE and understand the potential paths for recovery from the underlying conditions.
• Recognizing – what the symptoms of trauma are; not only in the patient, but in family members, staff, and everyone else involved in the treatment process.
• Responding – to care for the traumatized individual by implementing knowledge about trauma into policies, procedures and practices for the treatment of individuals suffering from trauma.
• Re-Traumatization – of the individual is resisted by ensuring that all staff, practices and processes will not exacerbate existing trauma symptoms.

What are the Six Key Principles of Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed treatment utilizes 6 key principles that are kept general so that any form of treatment-given can conform the principals and those treatment and care can be safe to use on those with trauma, without exacerbating the existing trauma symptoms.

• Safety
• Trustworthiness and Transparency
• Peer Support
• Collaboration and Mutuality
• Empowerment, Voice and Choice
• Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues

These six key principles of trauma informed care should be implemented into any caregiving or treatment program that is provided for a trauma survivor and those suffering from PTSD.

Trauma-Informed Care for Dual Diagnosis Addiction Treatment

Careful steps must be taken in the treatment of any individual that has experienced past traumas, especially when the treatment involves behavioral and mental health treatment. When it comes to substance abuse and addiction treatment in a survivor of trauma or PTSD survivor, the treatment will tackle emotions and issues that surely overlap with the traumatic experience.

In fact, in many cases the trauma itself is directly tied to, or caused the substance abuse and addiction issues. This is why it is so important to make sure that any portion of substance abuse or addiction treatment for PTSD survivors is done with respect to their condition, and utilizes dual diagnosis treatment with trauma-informed care.

Based off the six principles of trauma-informed care, ANY form of treatment given to a trauma patient should utilize trauma informed care. This means that if you are going to provide addiction treatment to a person with PTSD or exposure to trauma, it should be trauma informed treatment.

Why Substance Abuse Treatment with Any Additional Underlying Condition should be treated with Dual Diagnosis Treatment [H2]

Any time a person is struggling with substance abuse or addiction and another underlying condition, the substance abuse/addiction and the other underlying conditions should be treated concurrently (treated at the same time). Why is that? Because holistic treatment should treat the “whole person” not just some symptoms of their conditions.

Underlying conditions as dual diagnosis can include any of the following:

• Substance Abuse/Addiction & Depression
• Substance Abuse/Addiction & Bipolar Disorder
• Substance Abuse/Addiction & Eating Disorders
• Substance Abuse/Addiction & Anxiety Disorders
• Substance Abuse/Addiction & Trauma
• Substance Abuse/Addiction & PTSD
• Substance Abuse/Addiction & Health-Related Illnesses (Cancer, Cirrhosis, Wet Brain, Emphysema, etc.)

Think about it… does it make sense to send your loved one to treat their substance abuse issues in one program, and then send them to another program to treat their eating disorder? No, that would be counterproductive, especially if the eating disorder stemmed from the substance abuse. You would want a medical professional to deal with both interconnected issues at once. That is essentially how dual diagnosis treatment works.

Learn More About Maryland Recovery’s Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program

Treating Substance Abuse and Addiction in PTSD Sufferers

Taking what we know about both trauma-informed care and dual diagnosis treatment one step further, it makes perfect sense to treat a PTSD sufferer (who has a history of substance abuse and a current addiction/chemical dependence) through a trauma-informed dual diagnosis treatment program. Not only will this type of PTSD and addiction treatment program treat all underlying conditions concurrently, but they will do-so according to the principles of trauma-informed care.

This means that your loved one will be in a safe place, with a staff that is informed on trauma-based practices and procedures. Essentially, your loved one will be receiving the proper care, given in a safe environment, by a staff that knows how to give that care pursuant to your loved one’s special needs.

Learn More About Maryland Recovery’s Approach to Trauma &PTSD Treatment

The post Trauma and PTSD: Dual Diagnosis Treatment Helps PTSD and Addiction appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

For years it took many people by surprise, but more and more people are becoming aware that dozens of the medications that doctors prescribe can be addictive. Whether through misuse or prolonged use of a drug, a physical and psychological dependence can develop.

Close to 150,000 people were admitted into a substance abuse treatment program in the U.S. in 2015 for abuse of prescription and over-the-counter drugs. That’s right: Many people go to rehab that don’t even have a problem with alcohol or illegal drug use.

Before you go to rehab, your program may require you, or a medical expert may suggest, to undergo professional detox treatment first. This will help keep you stable and relatively comfortable as your body goes through acute withdrawal. Continue reading to find out which prescription drugs require detox treatment at the start of recovery.

Prescription Medications that Require Medical Detox

There are three main categories of prescription drugs that typically require detox treatment once somebody is addicted. This is because strong withdrawal symptoms will ensue once an addicted individual runs out of their supply or purposely tries to abstain from the prescribed drug.

Without further ado, here are the three classes of prescription drugs we’re alluding to:

Prescription Opioid Detox

Prescription opioid medications come from the same family of drugs as heroin. Some are natural, and some are synthetic or semi-synthetic. They all possess painkilling properties, and they tend to elicit varying degrees of euphoria.

Opioids are the most culpable when it comes to people entering a rehabilitation program for prescription drug addiction. In fact, prescription opioids were responsible for more than 121,000 of the nearly 150,000 treatment program admissions in 2015 that we mentioned earlier.

Now, that doesn’t mean that all of those individuals were taking them exactly as prescribed. Some misused them or took larger doses than recommended. Others borrowed or stole from a friend or family member who had been prescribed these drugs for a legitimate purpose. Some found other means to obtain more pills once their prescription ran out, such as through the black market or by “doctor shopping.”

The most common prescription opioids to be familiar with (and their brand names) include:

• Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
• Fentanyl (Duragesic, Subsys, Abstral)
• Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lorcet Norco)
• Hydromorphone (Dilaudid, Exalgo, Palladone)
• Morphine (MS Contin, Kadian, Avinza, Roxanol)
• Meperidine (Demerol)
• Tramadol (Ultram, Ryzolt)
• Codeine

Prescription opioids can be addictive because the brain actually has opioid receptors, which respond to these drugs with pain-relieving or pain-blocking effects, as well as a rush of dopamine. Prolonged opioid use tends to rewire the brain to the point where you’re used to a certain sensation and can’t deal with pain well without these drugs.

Opioid withdrawal doesn’t have a high mortality rate, but we still recommend medical detox, as the process is highly uncomfortable. Potential withdrawal symptoms include muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, anxiety, agitation and intense cravings.

Prescription Sedative Detox

Prescription sedatives actually describe a handful of different prominent groups of drugs. Medical experts also refer to these as tranquilizers – or central nervous system (CNS) depressants, to be more specific.

Prescription sedatives include the following types of drugs:

• Benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety meds such as Xanax, Valium and Klonopin)
• Sleeping pills (such as Ambien, Halcion and Lunesta; also known as sleep aids)
• Barbiturates (drugs such as Seconal, Nembutal and Amytal that treat headaches, insomnia and seizures)

CNS depressants are highly addictive and usually only prescribed for a short period of time, such as a few weeks. Exactly 14,000 Americans entered a rehab program for benzodiazepine addiction in 2015, and an additional 1,100-plus people went to rehab for barbiturate abuse.

Benzodiazepines and other CNS depressants make for one of the sneakiest forms of addiction. Many users are unaware that they have developed an addiction at all. These drugs typically don’t have the same outwardly effects of addiction as substances like heroin, alcohol and cocaine do; however, the user has just as hard of a time trying to stop.

Withdrawal from a CNS depressant drug poses a significant risk for death, so do not try to detox without medical supervision. When addicted, the brain is so used to having benzos or a CNS depressant that suddenly removing them will cause a major shock to the system.

Potential acute withdrawal symptoms include headaches, muscle pain, nausea, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, insomnia, seizures, coma and death. Professional detox treatment can help keep you stable and avoid the risk of death during this time.

Prescription Stimulant Detox

The last major group of prescription medications that typically warrant detox treatment is stimulants. These prescription drugs speed up the central nervous system and treat conditions such as ADHD and narcolepsy.

The most prominent types of prescription stimulants include:

• Amphetamines (such as Adderall)
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
• Desoxyn (a legal prescription version of methamphetamine that can treat ADHD and obesity)

Patients rely on stimulants for alertness, focus and energy. After prolonged use of one of these drugs, the brain becomes unable to produce normal levels of dopamine on its own. More than 8,000 people entered a rehab program in the U.S. in 2015 for abuse of amphetamines or other prescription stimulants.

When trying to suddenly quit stimulant use, many people will feel withdrawal symptoms that are on the opposite spectrum of the effects the drug usually provides. Potential prescription stimulant withdrawal symptoms include trouble concentrating, fatigue, sleeplessness, muscle pain, tremors, anxiety, intense mood swings and extreme cravings.

Acute stimulant withdrawal is not as being as deadly as that of prescription sedatives, according to addiction experts, but it’s still a highly uncomfortable and disorienting time. Relapse is a major risk due to the strong cravings. Thus, we recommend professional detox treatment in all cases of prescription stimulant addiction.

Seek Professional Drug Detox Treatment

If you’re legitimately addicted to any substance, professional detox is recommended in almost every case, even for drugs that aren’t known for strong withdrawal symptoms, such as antidepressants (Zoloft, Prozac, Wellbutrin, etc.).

At the very least, medical detox will help flush the toxins out of your system that have accumulated throughout your months or years of using a prescription drug, and a medical professional will be there to make sure the withdrawal process goes as smoothly as possible.

Maryland Recovery is big believer in putting new clients through medical detox before they embark on our long-term rehab program. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one begin walking toward a full recovery from prescription drug addiction.

See Rx Drug Addiction Symptoms and FAQs

The post What Medications Require Prescription Drug Detox? appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

Cyclical depression, or “recurrent depression,” can occur, abate and reoccur throughout the span of a person’s life. It can be difficult to self-diagnose, since emotions fluctuate. Cyclical depression often overlaps other forms of depression and anxiety, including premenstrual syndrome and seasonal affective disorder (SAD); therefore, it requires careful monitoring and attention to various co-occurring emotional experiences.

Research also suggests a correlation between cyclical depression and several mental disorders. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic attacks, for example, can impact an individual’s capacity to think clearly and perform daily tasks, initiating and reinforcing recurrent depressive episodes.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) also leads to cyclical depression. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that approximately 40 percent of people with PTSD also struggle with symptoms of depression in recurring patterns. Physical illnesses such as cancer and aneurysms may have ties to cyclical depression, as well.

Depression is not only hard for the person suffering, but also for those around him or her. It takes a toll and can ruin lives and relationships. Therefore, it is best to identify the symptoms early. Depression does not have to be total despair.

There are different levels and types of depression, and it is important to note that the symptoms are not the same for everyone. Without further ado, here’s a look at some of the lesser-known depressive disorders:

What Is Cyclical Depression? First Type: Cyclothymia

Cyclothymia is a rare mood disorder with some of the same characteristics as bipolar disorder. However, cyclothymia is a milder form that appears on a more chronic basis. The typical symptoms include highs and lows for at least two years or more.

The lows are more like a mild form of depression, different than a full-blown case of depression, while the highs are not as high as a full mania, but classified as hypomania. In between the highs and the lows, the baseline feels normal.

What Makes Cyclothymia Different than Bipolar Disorder?

Cyclothymia is different than bipolar disorder in that the feelings of mania and depression are not as strong. But, cyclothymia can become more intense over time, and the highs and lows will start to interrupt daily life on a regular basis.

It is important to seek treatment before this type of depression becomes too disruptive for a normal life. Those with cyclothymia are also more likely to suffer from attention deficit disorder, substance abuse and sleep disorders.

Whom Does Cyclothymia Affect?

Cyclothymia affects both men and women equally; however, women are more likely to seek treatment. It is rare in the general population, with only 0.4 to 1 percent who get diagnosed with this condition. Typical onset occurs during adolescence, but overlooking the symptoms is easy because they are hard to identify.

Symptoms of Cyclothymia

According to the American Psychiatric Association, you must exhibit all these symptoms:

• Multiple periods of hypomania and multiple periods of depressive episodes over a span of two years.
• Symptoms of hypomania and depression are active for at least half of the two-year span, not meeting criteria for a major depression or mania.
• Other mental disorders are not a contributing factor to the episodes.
• The symptoms are not related to drug abuse or other medication use
• The hypomania and depression symptoms disrupt normal life.

Signs of cyclothymia can include:

• Feelings of sadness
• Loss of hope
• Irritability
• Crying
• Sleep disturbances
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Restlessness
• Concentration problems
• Suicidal thoughts
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Weight changes
• Loss of motivation
• Impaired judgment and problem-solving skills
• Low self-esteem
• Loneliness or social withdrawal
• Difficulty handling conflict and finding meaning in life

What Is Dysthymia?

Dysthymia is a milder form of depression. It is still a chronic condition, but has fewer symptoms than major depression. Dysthymia is also known as chronic depression or persistent depressive disorder (PDD).

The symptoms can linger, often for years, making it hard to know what is normal anymore. While suffering from dysthymia, there can also be periods of major depression overlapping the symptoms.

Whom Does Dysthymia Affect?

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that dysthymia affects about 1.5 percent of American adults. It is not as disabling as a full-blown depression, but the symptoms can often continue for years, hence the name persistent depressive disorder.

Dysthymia typically starts in childhood, sometimes going undiagnosed for years. As with cyclothymia, women typically seek treatment for this condition more frequently than men do. Major life stressors can set off an episode, or abnormal pathways in the brain. Genetics could play a role, but science does not yet fully understand the part that genes play.

Symptoms of Dysthymia

The potential symptoms of dysthymia include:

• Feeling sad and depressed most of the day
• Loss of enjoyment
• Major change in weight
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Feeling physically run down
• Fatigue
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Problems with concentration
• Struggling with decision making
• Recurring thoughts of death and/or suicide

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Natural sunlight has a huge effect on the human body. Specifically, it produces vitamin D, an important vitamin for mental health. Without it, people can develop depression symptoms and other physical and mental symptoms known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Those affected by SAD experience depression symptoms as the days get shorter and the sunlight disappears. Thus, it can feel like depression that coincides with the change of the seasons.

Symptoms of SAD

Symptoms of SAD can include:

• Low energy
• Excessive sleep
• Changes in appetite
• Irritability
• Anger
• Changes in relationships
• Loss of interest
• Feelings of guilt
• Dread about the future
• Loss of motivation
• Anxiety
• Sadness

Living with Depression

The symptoms of depressive disorders can be disruptive to everyday life, making it difficult to keep up with work, family life and other obligations. However, they can be more manageable with help from therapy or various coping strategies.

Many people with cyclical forms of depression say that they can feel a depressive episode coming on, like a migraine, or a storm. This can take the form of feeling distracted, losing focus, or feeling more tired than usual. If possible, it may be helpful to alter schedules and obligations to accommodate the depressive period and its symptoms.

In an interview with NPR, popular MSNBC host Rachel Maddow openly discussed her history of cyclical depression. Maddow said she can feel her depression coming, and tries to make allowances in her work schedule for it. She noted that she can often read a whole book in a day, especially when interviewing authors for her show, but this pace slows down during a depressive episode, due to a lack of focus.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Depression and Substance Abuse

Dealing with depressive disorders, no matter the degree, can be a difficult subject. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, it may be time to talk to a doctor.

Depression often goes together with substance abuse. If you or a loved one think you are experiencing one of the lesser-known depressive disorders in conjunction with substance abuse, it is not only possible, but necessary, to get help for both at the same time. This is known as dual diagnosis treatment. Reach out to Maryland Recovery to discover programs specifically designed to deal with both disorders.

See Our Depression Fact Sheet

Other Sources:
https://healthfully.com/cyclical-depression-6462214.html
https://www.psycom.net/depression.central.cyclothymia.html
https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/chronic-depression-dysthymia#1
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/when-your-adult-child-breaks-your-heart/201611/seasonal-affective-disorder-what-you-need-know

The post What Is Cyclical Depression? Cyclothymia, Dysthymia, Chronic Depression and Depressive Disorders appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

You’ve probably heard of the opioid overdose reversal drug called Narcan, but did you know its manufacturer was based overseas?

Now, the owner of Narcan will not only be stateside, but it will be right here in Maryland. In August, a Gaithersburg, Maryland pharmaceutical company named Emergent Biosolutions acquired Adapt Pharma, the Dublin, Ireland-based maker of Narcan.

Let’s take a further look as to what that means for Maryland and the entire U.S., and then rewind a bit to explain what Narcan does and how to administer it.

More on the Narcan Acquisition by Maryland’s Emergent Biosolutions

Emergent Biosolutions is paying $735 million in cash and stock to acquire Adapt Pharma, according to The Baltimore Sun. Not only does Narcan fit right into Emergent’s business model, but company officials say they plan to develop additional products to combat the national opioid addiction and overdose epidemic.

“Adding this important life-saving product to our portfolio of preparedness solutions allows us to … address the devastating increase in deaths due to opioid overdoses, one of the most serious public health threats facing the nation today,” said Emergent CEO Daniel J. Abdun-Nabi in a press release.

Emergent boasts 1,300 employees between 13 different locations. Even though Emergent has a plant in Baltimore that makes vaccines and other treatments, it appears that Narcan will still be manufactured overseas.

Narcan’s Steep Cost

Narcan typically costs $150 for two doses, but the Baltimore City Health Department and other public health programs buy a less-expensive Narcan at a negotiated rate of $75 per two doses. According to Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen, if all of the right stakeholders around town had Narcan on hand for emergencies, it would cost the city $49 million, even at the lower rate.

Wen told The Baltimore Sun that 45,000 people in Baltimore have been trained to administer naloxone (the generic form of Narcan). She also said naloxone has saved more than 2,800 lives over the last three years.

Now that Narcan is owned by a U.S. company, Wen said he hoped her pleas for more affordability will resonate better.

Doug White of Emergent’s Business Device Unit told The Baltimore Sun that his company is also concerned about access and affordability, and that Emergent “plans to work with federal officials to ensure there is a steady stream of grant money to offset the costs and make funding more predictable.”

What that means is there is a chance that Narcan could become more affordable to government agencies and consumers alike. But, no guarantees, at this time.

Who Else Is Stocking Narcan?

The Baltimore Sun recently reported that many funeral home directors are now stocking Narcan. They don’t want to be empty handed if traces of fentanyl or carfentanil – which are reportedly deadly to the touch in their pure forms – are lingering on a deceased person or one of the mourners. There’s also the chance that a mourner may use opioids to combat grief or depression, and an overdose is thus a possibility.

The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) actually recommends that its members across the country prepare for handling cases of opioid exposure and overdose. The NFDA says members should train their staff on administering naloxone and recognizing the signs of opioid overdose.

The Baltimore Sun notes that stocking naloxone is still far from universal among central Maryland funeral homes, but that “it’s on the cusp of a trend,” according to Maryland Funeral Directors Association spokesman David Weber.

“Before, funeral directors used to carry smelling salts. Now, you carry Narcan,” added Jim Schwartz, director of MacNabb Funeral Home in Catonsville.

What Is Narcan?

Narcan is the brand name of the nasal spray version of naloxone. It can revive and reverse the effects of heroin and other opioid overdoses. The Food and Drug Administration first approved this drug in 2015. More recently, it has become available without a prescription, meaning family members of a loved one who struggles with opioid addiction can keep this drug on hand, although the price is pretty steep.

Naloxone actually belongs to the opioid family of drugs, but the way it works is actually much different than opioids like oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, etc.

Naloxone is an “opioid antagonist,” meaning instead of binding to the opioid receptors in the body and eliciting effects such as pain relief and central nervous system depression, it blocks and rapidly reverses the effects of other opioids.

Narcan has no effect if opioids are absent in one’s system. It also has no potential for abuse. There are two other versions of naloxone besides Narcan: an injectable version and an auto-injectable device; the injectable naloxone vials requires professional training to administer.

At first, only emergency response personnel kept Narcan on hand and were trained to administer it. However, minimally trained citizens can now administer it to family members and others, especially since it’s available in pharmacies without a prescription now.

Benefits of Narcan – and Side Effects

Naloxone reverses the effects of an opioid overdose for 30 to 90 minutes. This is ideally enough time to get further medical attention for the individual.

Narcan actually can cause a few side effects, though, such as:

• Fever
• Blood pressure changes
• Rapid heart rate
• Stomach pain
• Sweating
• Runny nose
• Nausea
• Tremors

Narcan can actually put the overdosed person in a withdrawal-like state, which is how these symptoms can come into play.

Despite the potential side effects, the trade-off is that naloxone can save the person’s life and alleviate many of the effects of the overdose.

How to Administer Narcan

Before administering Narcan capriciously, check for the signs of overdose before moving forward. Possible signs of opioid overdose include:

• Shortness of breath, or no breath
• Won’t wake up
• Pale or discolored skin
• Constricted pupils
• Cold or clammy skin
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• A snoring noise, or gasping for breath

Medical experts implore people to still call 911 even if they are about to administer naloxone.

If you have the Narcan brand drug, tilt the overdosed person’s head back and spray the Narcan into their nose. Narcan usually elicits a response in a matter of minutes. Wait about three minutes to administer another dose if the person hasn’t responded to the first one. You may also want to flip the person on their side in case vomiting commences.

If the Narcan is not working or is slow to work, a trained individual should deliver CPR if the patient’s breathing is shallow or nonexistent. If you’re about to administer a second dose of Narcan, try rescue breathing first.

Important Note

We must note that you shouldn’t wait for an overdose to happen to try to figure out how to administer Narcan and other naloxone-based drugs. We recommend undergoing formal training before trying it in a crucial moment.

There are several workshops and resources for naloxone training all over the country, and the training typically isn’t rigorous or prolonged. Nonetheless, it’s important to be prepared in case a real overdose happens in your presence.

Ongoing Care Needed for Heroin/Opioid Addiction

Narcan is a short-term fix for opioid and heroin overdose, but it is far from a cure for addiction. Only professional, long-term treatment can hope to rid an individual of addiction.

If you know someone in need of help in overcoming opioid addiction, reach out to Maryland Recovery today to explore long-term treatment options.

See Our Heroin Addiction Fact Sheet

Other Sources:
https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/opioid-overdose-reversal-naloxone-narcan-evzio
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/06/us/naloxone-narcan-opioid-overdose.html

The post Narcan Now Owned by Maryland Pharmaceutical Company: The Benefits of Narcan appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

In a society that seems to favor deception instead of accountability, those immersed in overconsumption of drugs and alcohol have an uphill battle in controlling the craving and cycle of use. It’s a reality we see and deal with 24 hours a day here at Maryland Recovery. When a relatively new product was brought to our attention that was formulated to reverse the signs of binge drinking by removing the symptoms and after-effects of a night on the town, we wanted to investigate if it was hype. But what poses more concern in our minds, is that if hangover prevention supplements deliver on what they promise, does it pose a serious risk to people struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and those amidst recovery?

Take Thrive+® and Drink Like It Never Even Happened

It’s exactly what the makers of Thrive+ want the public to believe. Just take Thrive, as directed, before binging on alcohol and you’ll wake up the next morning like you never had the alcohol.

This is so wrong on so many levels.
A story online depicts the experience one woman had with Thrive+ after enduring a painful, two-day hangover from a night of overindulgence. In her story, she discusses her history of partying. She then proclaims her need to help prevent hangovers through the use of the Thrive+ supplement. The woman did not want to change her behavior (binge drinking) but find a workaround for it.

Alcoholism Is Behavior, a Choice Gone Out of Control

Now that you have a better understanding of the challenges in alcohol use disorder and binge drinking, let’s examine how Thrive+ works and whether it impacts drinking behaviors.

Thrive+ Hangover Prevention Supplement and How It’s Used

Hangover prevention supplements, in theory, are similar to other supplements on the market meant to lessen the bad of our unhealthy choices.

Remember when carb blockers were created? With a carb-blocker, people could consume the very foods they were trying to avoid like breads, pastas, rice and cakes. The supplement would block the absorption of the sugars from the carbs. But the carb-blocker doesn’t alter the behavior of consumption.

Thrive+ and other hangover prevention products work in similar ways. They allow the user to put a panacea on a bigger problem. But there are only so many hangover prevention pills you can take before the bigger picture becomes abundantly clear.

The Credibility of a Hangover Pill Is More Like a Dull Ache

Researchers at McGill University in Montreal Canada took a deeper look at Thrive+, from a formulation perspective. The main molecule in Thrive+ is dihydromyricetin (DHM) which is commonly used in Chinese medicine to treat parasite infections, reduce fevers, muscle spasms, and presents as a diuretic and a laxative. It is also used for alcohol poisoning. While there were studies in mice that showed efficacy in minimizing the stress to the liver from alcohol intake, it cannot jump to proof for human beings – because there’s an issue with absorption or bioavailability.

Any preventative supplement is only as good as its ability to absorb into the bloodstream and provide the necessary effect. According to Thrive+’s bioavailability, it’s flat, though human participants in a study showed a 50 percent reduction in hangover symptoms after use.

How then, did the woman’s account (noted earlier) of Thrive+ represent a completely different experience? It’s in the details of how the study was designed.

There was no double-blind placebo. Participants drank, got drunk and shared how they felt the next day. They repeated the process but used Thrive+ as directed before the drinking began. In addition, participants already knew about the product and what the expectation was providing a power of suggestion that mars the authenticity of their reporting.

Thrive+ Is a Lot Like Uber and Lyft

Social butterflies and clubbers in big cities jumped on the shared ride bandwagon when Uber and Lyft hit the road. While there are merits to these companies and what they offer, there is also a hidden danger to consumers with a tendency to binge drink. Uber and Lyft have collectively lessened the amount of alcohol-related accidents on the road. However, alcohol overconsumption increased. Uber and Lyft have provided a vehicle (literally and figuratively) for people to binge with a false sense of a safety net.

Thrive+ provides another means to continue risky behaviors without owning them. While it may give relief in the typical symptoms of too-many-cocktails, it doesn’t alter what happens during consumption and the ill-made decisions during the process.

Do hangover prevention supplements help you make better decisions? Can you choose wisely in where you go, what you do and who you do it with when drinking alcohol? Will it help prevent a sexual assault or blacking out? Now that would be something.

An Ounce of Prevention Isn’t Always Worth a Pound of Cure

Ask any health practitioner who specializes in alcohol addiction rehab and recovery whether Thrive+ or other hangover prevention products assist in the treatment of alcohol use disorder; you’d probably get a resounding ‘No”. Alcohol addiction isn’t just about the damage that the substance itself can cause to the user and loved ones, but it is the multi-layered effects to physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects to self that cannot be addressed by taking a pill.

The only way to truly thrive from alcoholism is to seek help from a licensed treatment facility that can offer safe detox, medication tapering and the life skills tools to realize sobriety for the long term.

If You or Someone You Love Needs Help with Alcohol Use Disorder,

We Can Help

The post Do Hangover-Prevention Supplements Miss the Mark on Alcohol Addiction? appeared first on Maryland Recovery.

It can be very difficult for a person to admit that he or she has a substance abuse problem, but it can be equally as stressful to accept the need for medication in recovery. There are many social stigmas surrounding medication, particularly when it comes to chronic conditions and mental illnesses. Treating these issues is an important part of addiction recovery. People struggling with addiction need to overcome the fear of accepting medication treatment for a better chance of recovery.

Medication Assisted Addiction Treatment

The standard of substance abuse treatment in the United States typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy or some form of psychotherapy and medication. Without medical assistance, the detox process is potentially fatal, and rehab will be much more difficult for a person suffering the physical effects of addiction, such as disease, malnourishment, and psychological trauma.

Some people may believe starting a medication simply means replacing one addiction for another. There is, however, a distinct difference between managing a legitimate medical issue with a safe medication and nursing an addiction with illicit drugs. Addiction treatment professionals avoid prescribing or administering habit-forming drugs, and when patients in recovery receive psychiatric drug prescriptions, their doctors prescribe knowing there is the potential of dependency.

Medical Assistance during Detox

Many types of addiction entail severe withdrawal symptoms when the drug craving isn’t satisfied or the willful detox takes place. For example, opioid addiction can lead to fatal seizures during withdrawal, and alcohol withdrawal can cause a life-threatening condition known as delirium tremens (also called “the DTs or “the shakes”). It’s essential to manage these symptoms, and medical assistance during the detox process generally entails nutritional support and medications to manage withdrawal.

Potential Health Effects of Addiction

People who endure severe drug use often report exposing themselves to risky situations, experiencing past incidents of abuse and traumatic violence, and contracting infectious diseases from unprotected sex while under the influence and sharing needles, for example. These incidents can lead to long-term or permanent health conditions that require medication to effectively treat and manage. A patient in substance abuse treatment would likely have a better recovery experience if he or she can support their care with safe medications.

Nutritional Support

Many people who fall deep into substance abuse will neglect basic needs such as food and water for days on end as they search for another fix. Malnourishment can lead to infections and organ failure, while vitamin deficiencies hinder the body’s natural ability to fight disease and withstand the elements. Nutritional support during detox may include dietary supplements and vitamin-replacement therapy to help recover from the effects of long-term drug abuse.

Overcoming the Stigma of Medication

Some people avoid medication because accepting a prescription means admitting to having a disorder. There is an unfortunate stigma surrounding mental illness and chronic medical conditions that causes some people to feel ashamed of these issues. Some people may want to overcome addiction without relying on foreign substances in the body, but may not realize that a co-occurring condition is a major part of the problem and it requires treatment.

Seeking addiction help should include an honest assessment of individual health. A person with a substance abuse problem in need of alcohol addiction help or other treatment may be willing to enter rehab but still have difficulty accepting medication, even for a severe issue. If a person has a medical issue that requires medication for effective treatment, foregoing that treatment will only work against his or her recovery efforts and increase the chances of relapse.

Medication for Chronic Illnesses and Co-Occurring Disorders

Effective addiction treatment demands addressing patients on an individual level. Addiction affects everyone differently so there is no blanket solution. Unique individual factors also play a significant role in addiction. Two people who both use heroin may have the same level of physical dependency on the drug, but their psychological attachments may be vastly different and require different approaches to treatment.

A “dual diagnosis” occurs when a person suffers from both a substance abuse disorder and a mental health disorder. These cases require carefully planned treatment. Some people develop substance abuse problems by self-medicating with illicit drugs and alcohol. Others may start showing signs of mental health disorders from drug use and develop long-term psychological conditions. It can be dangerous when addiction and mental illness run in tandem, and effective treatment requires addressing both issues simultaneously.

Dangers of Dual Diagnosis Cases

People who self-medicate with alcohol or drugs for a mental health condition hinder their chances of learning healthier coping techniques. For example, a person suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may simply drink to be able to sleep at night. This may offer immediate and somewhat reliable relief from his or her symptoms, but it does nothing to address the underlying cause of those symptoms and ultimately only harms the person.

It’s impossible to treat a dual-diagnosis case without addressing the addiction and the mental health disorder at the same time. Substance-abuse treatment centers that specialize in dual-diagnosis treatment develop comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that take these complex factors into account to minimize the risk of replacing one addiction with another.

One distinct danger of dual-diagnosis treatment is a patient must stick to his or her medications as prescribed. When a person takes a psychiatric medication, he or she may stop experiencing negative symptoms and stop taking the medication because the need appears to have diminshed. This is a bad idea because most psychoactive prescription drugs for conditions such as anxiety and depression need to reach certain levels in the body and maintain those levels to prevent symptoms. When a person suddenly stops taking a prescribed medication, he or she may experience an intense return of symptoms, potentially triggering a relapse.

Dual-Diagnosis Treatment and Medical Assistance from Maryland Recovery

Dual-diagnosis rehab is a complex process that requires individualized care. Maryland Recovery offers a full spectrum of dual-diagnosis treatment services and medically assisted addiction treatment. Some patients may not want to acknowledge the need for a prescription during recovery, but our staff works closely with each of our clients to ensure we meet their individual treatment needs.

Dual Diagnosis Assessment Begins Here

The post The Struggle in Admitting the Need for Addiction Help and Getting on Medication appeared first on Maryland Recovery.