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How Stress Contributes to Substance Abuse

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Substance Abuse.

Stress doesn’t cause addiction, but there is an absolute correlation between high cortisol levels and substance use. For many people, the push to use drugs or alcohol comes from an inability to manage stress or anxiety in healthy ways. Substances, then, become a means of “escape” from dealing with uncomfortable emotions or circumstances.

Here we will explore the link between stress and substance use. Enlightened Recovery, a holistic facility that helps people recover from addiction and mental health disorders, offers a variety of programs and assistance for handling stress in sustainable, natural ways.

The Link Between Stress and Substance Use

Like many physical and mental health conditions, there is no single cause of substance abuse. It has its roots in both genetic and environmental factors. People from families where substance abuse is prevalent may be more at risk, though certainly not guaranteed, to struggle with addiction themselves. Those who work or live in high-stress environments may also be more at risk. One common denominator in both scenarios is stress. Those who experience chronic stress are more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol than those who don’t.

Stress, of course, is a part of life. In our early history, stress was critical for humans to protect themselves from environmental threats. Today, stress can still serve that purpose, but in many cases, it is brought on by factors in our personal lives as well. Some people may thrive in stressful, fast-paced environments, but many others do not. The increase in stress in certain people can enable them to seek quick fixes for overwhelming emotions. This is how addiction can begin.

Stress that is not dealt with properly can have consequences on both physical and mental health. When combined with accumulated damage from substance use, the effects can be more disastrous. Some health issues related to stress include high blood pressure and heart rate, cardiovascular disease, and migraines. A combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions may be needed to help reduce stress levels and address the “need” for drugs or alcohol to feel calmer and more relaxed.

How Substance Use Affects Stress

Substance use and stress can feed each other in an unhealthy cycle. Alcohol can affect parts of the brain that manage feelings of pleasure, behavior, and impulse control. The consequences of prolonged substance use can lead to losing a job, housing, or damaging relationships – all contributors to feelings of stress. The discomfort associated with withdrawal can also contribute to stress, which is why many people who undergo the detox process by themselves often fall into relapse.

Suggestions for Managing Stress in Healthy Ways

The mind and body both benefit from managing stress without substances. Some helpful techniques include the following.

Reach Out for Help

Addiction is incredibly difficult, if not impossible, to conquer alone. Having a supportive community is paramount for reducing stress and having a successful recovery. This can include family members, close friends, people in 12-Step meetings, or a sponsor.

Practice Meditation or Mindfulness

Promote feelings of calmness and relaxation by focusing on the present, practicing breathing exercises, observing thoughts without judgment, or observing the beauty of nature. If an individual does not have the means to attend a meditative program, there are plenty of free meditative apps to download.

Eat and Sleep Well

It sounds basic, but it’s incredible how much better we feel when we eat healthily and get the right amount of sleep. Insomnia and poor diet can contribute to stress because our bodies and minds are more equipped to handle it. Experts recommend three healthy meals a day and eight hours of sleep at night.

Make Time for Exercise

Just 15-20 minutes a day of physical activity can go a long way toward reducing stress. This is because the endorphins, or “feel good” chemicals, released from the brain can help us feel more relaxed and happy. Take a lap or two around the neighborhood, do some jumping jacks, ride a bike, or join a local gym to help relieve chronic stress.

When Stress and Addiction Become a Co-occurring Disorder

The phrase “co-occurring disorder” is how medical professionals refer to more than one mental or physical health condition occurring at the same time in a person. Stress is one of the most common co-occurring disorders associated with substance abuse. Others may be diagnosed with anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, or clinical depression alongside addiction. Those with existing mental health disorders are more likely to develop a substance addiction, though this is not guaranteed. It’s also common for prolonged substance use to trigger or cause mental health conditions.

If an individual is experiencing a co-occurring disorder, it’s recommended that they seek treatment from a facility that specializes in that condition. This way, both disorders can be treated together rather than separately. This is the most effective way of treating co-occurring disorders.

Manage Stress and Substance Abuse With Enlightened Recovery

Enlightened Recovery is a treatment facility specializing in holistic practices for a “whole-person” approach to health. Whether a person is dealing with high levels of stress, substance abuse, or both, our treatment programs can help. We offer inpatient detox, outpatient programs, 12-Step programs, individual and family therapy, and more to address and treat both conditions at once. We are also passionate about incorporating healthy life choices, such as clean eating and exercise, to promote both physical and mental health.

If you’re struggling with substance abuse and stress, you are not alone. Many people turn to substances as a means of coping with uncomfortable situations, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Enlightened Recovery is uniquely equipped to help you deal with both addiction and stress. Through a variety of therapies, inpatient and outpatient treatment, an emphasis on holistic care, and healthy eating, we can address your mental and physical health to support your overall wellness. Our facility has helped many people recover from addiction, develop healthier coping mechanisms for stress, and achieve long-lasting sobriety. To learn more about the services we offer, please call us today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Why Substance Abuse Increases in Colder Months and How a 12-Step Program Can Help

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Substance Abuse.

What’s the connection between colder weather and substance abuse? Unfortunately, the latter tends to increase when the former happens. That’s not to say that cold weather causes substance abuse. However, there is an uptick in depression during the shorter, darker, winter days. Because many instances of substance abuse are triggered by depression, the correlation between winter and substance use is legitimate.

For this reason, it is important to become familiar with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and learn new ways that you can best cope with it.

How Cold Weather Influences Substance Abuse

Colder weather, falling leaves, and snowfall can signify the excitement of the holiday season for some. For others, it’s a seasonal change that puts a damper on many activities. You may be forced to stay home when the roads are too slick to drive on safely. There may not be much to do inside a small space, and you’re disconnected from friends and loved ones. Sometimes people are driven to drink or do drugs due to boredom. Others turn to these substances as an escape when feeling lonely or isolated.

The cold weather and shorter, darker days, combined with increased drug use, create an adverse biological effect. Depending on the type of substances used, breathing can become labored and difficult. It’s already harder to breathe when the air is cold, and more challenging for the body to regulate its temperature normally. Combined with drug use, such as opioids, which are known to cause breathing issues, this further increases the possibility of a dangerous overdose.

If people live alone, the chances of not being able to get help in time also increase. This isn’t the fault of winter necessarily, but it’s safe to say that more people go out partying, bar hopping, or doing drugs and drinking with friends when the weather is more favorable. Under those circumstances, medical help is more easily found. With less sunlight and shorter days, many people experience a vitamin D deficiency (the vitamin found in natural sunlight). This deficiency can worsen or cause depression, which also plays a role in substance abuse.

Using the 12-Step Model During Winter and Beyond

The 12-Step model is not a medical treatment but a framework to help people understand their experience of addiction and create better habits in place of using substances. The model can be followed any time of year but can be especially helpful during the winter season.

The Twelve Steps involve:

  • Helping people recognize and admit to having a problem with addiction
  • Surrendering control over the addiction, acknowledging that a higher power is needed to overcome it
  • Developing an awareness of the problematic behaviors that are either part of, or caused by addiction, and learning a healthy sense of restraint
  • Creating and embracing opportunities to practice that restraint and develop a healthier self-image
  • Developing healthy self-acceptance to change certain behaviors
  • Compassion for people who have been affected by and still struggle with addiction (including ourselves)
  • Cultivating tools to practice all of the above throughout daily life

These steps have a long track record of success in helping people conquer substance abuse addiction and achieve sobriety.

12-Step Programs Help Promote Sobriety Year-Round

All of the information above may sound bleak. However, the winter season doesn’t have to be depressing when you’re prepared in advance for the challenges it presents. One way to equip yourself with healthy coping mechanisms for worsened depression symptoms is to participate in a 12-Step program.

The basis for national recovery programs, like Alcoholics Anonymous, 12-Step programs break down recovery steps into small, manageable bites. The goal is to help people who struggle with substance abuse overcome their addictions, as well as the compulsions that drive those addictions.

The 12-Step model is intended to be worked out in a community, such as the people who regularly attend weekly recovery meetings. Spirituality is an essential component of the 12-Step process, but it doesn’t have to be a religious-oriented spirituality if you don’t want it to be. The 12-Step liturgy emphasizes an ecumenical “higher power” that is not specific to any one religion.

Ultimately, the 12-Step model works best when people are committed to helping others in addition to helping themselves. Those who have moved further down the list of the Twelve Steps can be a source of encouragement to those who are starting it for the first time. Different people will also have unique ways of implementing each of the steps, which are written somewhat vaguely on purpose so they can be adapted in unique ways. Through these steps and regular communal support, many people find that their mental health improves, leading them to flourish in other aspects of life. This is one of the most sustainable ways to contribute to long-term recovery.

How Enlightened Recovery Can Help

Our holistic, “whole-person” approach to substance abuse treatment aims to promote physical as well as mental, emotional, and spiritual health. The 12-Step model is just one of the ways we do this with our clients, helping them to identify any destructive thought or behavior patterns, improve life management, and learn healthy coping skills. Together, these qualities help to promote not only sobriety but also an improved understanding of the self. This allows our clients to discover renewed spiritual understanding, purpose, and fulfillment to improve their lives.

Conquering substance abuse is hard at any time of year, but winter presents some unique challenges to certain people. The days are shorter and darker; the cold can make even the happiest people miserable. Bad weather can keep us isolated and separated from friends. All of these factors can contribute to the possibility of relapse or overdose. But you can prepare in advance for this challenging season by participating in 12-Step programs. At Enlightened Recovery, we strive to help people cultivate healthy coping mechanisms for life’s challenges and become healthy not just physically but also mentally and spiritually. If you struggle with substance abuse and are concerned about your sobriety this winter, call us today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Why You Should Volunteer During Treatment and Recovery

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Substance Abuse.

Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and help others. It’s especially rewarding when you’re in recovery from addiction, as it helps increase feelings of gratitude and happiness that help prevent relapse. There are many ways to volunteer, depending on what you’re passionate about – from packing food at food banks, to serving homeless shelters, to helping other people achieve recovery in your community.

At Enlightened Recovery, we firmly believe that volunteering is integral to the recovery process. You help yourself in significant ways when you spend time helping others.

The Many Benefits of Volunteering

It’s a given that volunteering helps others, but did you know there are other benefits as well? Here are just a few of them to consider.

Form Healthier Connections

Substance abuse and addiction thrive in isolation. They draw people away from their families and friends, which is required to keep drug or alcohol use a secret. Isolation also occurs as a result of the deep shame that is associated with addiction.

Volunteering is a great way to draw you out of that isolation and form a healthy support network. You can meet new people and learn from those whose lives and circumstances differ from yours. This exposure is part of being a more open-minded, well-rounded individual. It may require leaving your comfort zone, especially if you have an introverted personality, but that kind of discomfort is occasionally good and healthy for us.

Improve Your Self-Esteem

The cycle of shame from addiction can understandably impact self-image and self-esteem. You may think that addiction makes you weak-willed, even though it’s a disease that requires treatment like any other. When you serve others through volunteering, you can start to see yourself in a more positive light – as someone who cares and wants to give back. These feelings can help rebuild a brain that has been damaged by prolonged substance use, in which the only way to feel good about anything was to get drunk or high.

Volunteering can teach your mind to feel good with natural feel-good hormones, and you can access these by helping other people. As you start to rebuild your confidence, you’ll find that you don’t need substances anymore.

Manage Your Recovery Time Better

What will you do with your time now that you’re no longer getting drunk or high? Perhaps you’re looking for positive, healthier ways to keep busy and avoid relapse. Volunteering can help you with developing healthier time management skills. Whether serving on a local school board, attending community support meetings, or assisting with local blood drives, there are endless ways to fill your time. The less idle time you have, the better your chances of staying sober.

Improve Your Mental Health

Many people with substance use disorder (SUD) struggle with co-occurring disorders. This is when substance abuse occurs alongside a mental health issue, such as depression or anxiety. Often, these conditions fuel each other, or one causes the other (the scientific consensus is unclear).

However it happens, one way to manage the symptoms is to look beyond yourself and focus on others. Volunteering helps accomplish that task. In addition to helping others, which floods the brain’s pleasure center with dopamine, you are building healthy, long-lasting connections with others.

Help Others in Need

While there are many personal gains in volunteering, the main point is to help others. It’s about giving back to the community that helped you get sober. It’s also about providing access to resources for others who may be struggling in the same way you once struggled. If someone helped you at some point during your recovery, at no benefit to themselves, paying it forward is the best way to pay them back.

Develop a Sense of Purpose

The world can feel like a big, aimless place when you are newly sober and struggling to find your place within it once again. Perhaps you struggle to fill your time productively now that you’re no longer using substances or hanging out with people who do. Filling that time with volunteering can help you feel needed and useful. Taking the focus off yourself and directing it toward others will also help you stay sober. When people are counting on you to show up and fulfill certain responsibilities, there is an additional layer of accountability that can keep you grounded and resist the temptation to use.

Learn New Skills and Gain Experience

Many people have trouble getting their lives back on track after struggling with addiction. Perhaps they lost their job and need help getting back on their feet. If that’s you, volunteering is a great way to help you develop the skills and experience necessary to one day get a job in that field.

Volunteering is a two-fold process that helps the people being served as much as the people serving them. When you volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about, you can network with like-minded people and be able to ask for references from people you volunteer with.

The skills learned in substance abuse treatment can serve you well in the world of volunteering. Not sure where to get started? Think about the causes you’re passionate about, and see what opportunities are available in your community. The right opportunities are out there, waiting to be discovered.

At Enlightened Recovery, we believe that giving back to the community is a vital part of the addiction recovery process. There are many ways we recommend our clients do this. Whether it’s making coffee or setting up chairs for 12-Step group meetings or serving as mentors for other people in need of accountability, we can help you find volunteer work in a setting you’re passionate about. Not only will volunteering help take the focus away from yourself and allow you to help others, but it can also lead to opportunities for rebuilding a life that has been negatively impacted by drug or alcohol use. To learn more about our programs, call us today at (833) 801-LIVE.

How to Avoid Using Substances to Cope With Seasonal Affective Disorder

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Substance Abuse.

Recovery from substance abuse is challenging at any time of year, but it can be especially discouraging during the long winter months. We often forget just how much impact natural light has on our overall mood until the days become shorter and cloudiness is the new norm. Increased feelings of sadness during this season are such a common phenomenon that it has a name: seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Those in recovery from substance abuse may already have depression. Seasonal depression, on top of that, can potentially increase the risk of relapse. Fortunately, support is out there. Learning about healthy resources can help you cultivate healthy coping strategies that don’t involve alcohol or drugs.

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD functions similarly to clinical depression. The symptoms – pervasive feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of energy for longer than two weeks – can overlap. For most people, the onset of symptoms happens during autumn and worsens after Daylight Savings time, when the days contain less sunlight. Symptoms can naturally dissolve on their own come spring, but the months leading up to that change in season can feel long and begrudging.

Other symptoms of SAD include losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, disrupted sleep, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. People in recovery from addiction may experience an increased temptation to use substances during this period.

The Link Between Seasonal Affective Disorder and Substance Abuse

It’s quite common for people experiencing addiction to have a co-occurring mental health disorder. The most common mental health disorders include anxiety and depression, which can be an underlying cause of substance use as a means of “escaping” negative emotions. Using substances as a coping mechanism for depression can train the brain to rely on those chemicals to feel better, altering the pleasure center to lose interest in other activities. When the effects wear off, it will require higher amounts of drugs or alcohol to reach that place of pleasure again. This is how addiction develops.

SAD and substance abuse can go hand in hand, though they do not have to. While the correlation between SAD and substance abuse exists, there is no definitive proof that one causes the other. These conditions are more likely to affect people who are already predisposed, either through genetics or their environment.

Building Resilience While Coping With SAD in Recovery

It’s a two-fold battle to simultaneously deal with SAD and substance abuse recovery. Don’t beat yourself up for struggling more during this season – you are far from alone! Here are a few suggestions to prioritize recovery during these literal dark days.

Attend Recovery Meetings

Local 12-Step meetings can be constructive for building community and finding encouragement. Chances are, you will not be the only person struggling harder with recovery during the winter months. This is an opportunity to talk with others who share that same experience.

Meet With a Mentor or Sponsor

Most 12-Step groups have a sponsor or mentorship program where you can meet one-on-one outside of group meetings for individual help. These mentors or sponsors are often further along in their recovery journey and can offer encouragement, accountability, and advice.

Practice Healthy Self-Care Habits

You’ll want to be especially kind to yourself during the winter season. Make sure you’re eating well, getting plenty of exercise, and getting outside when you can. The sun is still present even on cloudy days, and a little bit of natural light is better than none at all.

Holistic Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment

The most common treatment for depression is antidepressants. These medications are an effective solution for managing depression symptoms for some, though not everyone responds well to them. Some antidepressants cause unpleasant side effects in certain people, which your doctor should explain before prescribing them. These side effects can include weight gain, insomnia, and a loss of libido. It often requires tinkering with the dosage or changing medications more than once to find the proper regimen.

These medications can correct chemical imbalances in the brain but aren’t a permanent solution. That’s why Enlightened Recovery believes in developing healthy coping mechanisms along with holistic treatments that can be easily integrated into your lifestyle. There is no prescription needed for healthier life choices. Many people who have had little luck with prescription drugs find renewed hope and solid answers in our treatment program. The natural healing path may not be for everyone, but we believe it is the most effective.

Natural Treatments for SAD in Recovery

We offer a variety of treatment methods for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse that are natural and sustainable. While we are not against using medications, we discourage relying on them as the primary way of changing negative thought and behavior patterns. Instead, we recommend a combination of herbal supplements, experiential therapies, acupuncture, and more.

We believe that true clarity and peace are possible when the body is free of as many unnatural chemicals as possible. This is part of our comprehensive “whole-person” approach. Being unwell in the body leads to unwellness in the mind and spirit. Our treatment methods aim to heal you completely rather than specific parts and pieces. We teach our clients to find solutions within themselves, which are free to access at any time, without a prescription or the need for insurance. With this approach, unwanted side effects can be avoided.

Recovery from substance abuse is hard, and the dark days of winter certainly don’t make it any easier. If you struggle harder with depression and the temptation to relapse once you turn the clocks back, you are not alone. At Enlightened Recovery, we offer a variety of natural and sustainable treatments for co-occurring disorders, including mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and more. Whether you need to detox from drugs or alcohol or a rehabilitation program specific to your situation, we are here to help. If you’re struggling with SAD, addiction, or both, please call us today at (833) 801-LIVE and speak with our knowledgeable, compassionate staff to learn about your options. 

Am I Putting Off Treatment?

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Substance Abuse.

Are you a procrastinator? Maybe you are when it comes to little things. Or, perhaps, you tend to put off the things that matter most. This may be out of fear of failure or rejection or for other reasons.

When it comes to making the call to seek treatment for addiction to drugs or alcohol, you do not want to procrastinate. If things have escalated enough to make you consider getting help, you need to take that first step.

Putting off getting help for a substance abuse issue can be extremely common. We will discuss some of the reasons one might do so below. You might relate to a few.

The unfortunate truth of the matter is that procrastinating when it comes to seeking treatment can be a life-or-death decision. One day can make all the difference when it comes to getting help. You could overdose or make a risky decision that could cost you your life.

Reasons People Avoid Getting Help

Asking for help is not always easy. Depending on the type of person you are, there could be a long list of undesirable things you would rather do. It is important to understand how strong the power of addiction can be and recognize the urgency of the situation.

A few things that might lead someone to put off treatment could include the following:

  • Denial
  • Shame or guilt
  • Stigma
  • Fear of loss

Denial

One of the more common reasons you might be hesitant to seek treatment is denial. You might think you have everything under control. Can you really stop using substances at any time? Do you have the desire to stop?

You might find yourself going back and forth about whether you actually need treatment or not. The word “addiction” refers to something that has grown out of your control. Could this really be the case for you?

If you are contemplating whether or not your problem is worthy of treatment, the answer is probably yes. More than likely, you have felt the inability to make the decisions you want to make regarding substance use and need some support.

Shame or Guilt

Shame and guilt almost always accompany addiction. We all have people we care about in our lives. Typically, the choices we make due to substance use cause some disappointment or hurt for those we love. This can lead you to feel ashamed or even embarrassed.

The fact that you have lost control can be cause for shame in itself. If you are someone who likes to feel in control, knowing that substances have stripped that away can feel very defeating.

Do your best to accept these feelings, but fight to overcome them. There is no shame in asking for help. In fact, it is a sign of strength and concern for your well-being. Those who love and care for you will support your decision.

Stigma

The stigma around addiction has evolved throughout history and still exists in today’s society. Luckily, therapy, treatment, and speaking up when you need help are becoming more widely accepted.

Unfortunately, the stigma associated with substance use disorder (SUD) is one that is still relevant enough to create some fear of judgment and rejection for those struggling with it. Do your best to let go of these fears. Putting yourself and your health first is commendable.

Fear of Loss

When you think about entering treatment, you might think that this will lead to great loss. You might be concerned about losing your job, friends, or relationships. At Enlightened Recovery, we offer several different program options, some of which allow for flexibility that could enable you to keep working. Of course, this depends on your specific situation and the level of care you need.

As far as friends and loved ones go, our family program encourages others to get involved so they can learn more about addiction and develop tools for healing and moving forward. Those who truly care will want the best for you and they will be supportive of your journey to recovery.

Don’t Wait Any Longer

These are just a few reasons you might avoid making the call to seek treatment for your addiction. You could make many different reasons and excuses to justify delaying treatment. Whether you are struggling with alcohol, opioids, benzos, cocaine, or other substances, you need to take the first step to regain control of your life.

Continuing to make excuses prolongs the problem and can lead to a more difficult healing a recovery process. Every day and every minute counts when it comes to seeking treatment for addiction. If you are considering making a call, it is time to take action. You have a beautiful life waiting for you in recovery.

It can be easy to put off seeking help for addiction to drugs or alcohol and entering treatment for a variety of reasons. Shame or guilt can keep you from confronting the issue and making the call. Even stigmas or fear of judgment can stand in the way. Perhaps you are worried about losing your job or someone you love. Delaying treatment will only make matters worse. If you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, we would love to speak to you about our programs and discuss how we can help. To begin your journey to recovery, reach out and call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE.

How to Cope With Occupational Stress in a Healthy Way

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Substance Abuse.

Work is often stressful. Whether you have tension with a coworker, a boss that always seems to be breathing down your neck, or endless deadlines that have you on edge, there will always be stressors when it comes to work. Of course, some jobs are more stressful than others. Some days or seasons may be more stressful than others as well. Because stress is inevitable, it is important to know how to cope with stress at work in a healthy way.

Stress can be a major trigger for substance use and abuse. It is well known that work can be one of the main stressors for many, so coping well with work-related stress is critical. You might be tempted to turn to drugs or alcohol after a long day or week at work. While this may start in moderation, often, as the stress increases, so does the amount or frequency of substance use.

There are many healthy ways of coping with work-related stress that do not involve drugs or alcohol. A few healthy ways to cope with stress at work can include:

  • Exercise and eat healthy foods
  • Take breaks and time off
  • Try therapy or counseling
  • Consider a job or role change

Exercise and Eat Well

One tip for stress management is making sure you are living a healthy lifestyle. While this may sound cliché, it is true. If you are living a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious meals and incorporating some physical activity into your weekly or daily routine, you are more likely to handle stress better. This is because these things promote better sleep, better mood, more energy, and better focus.

With all of these advantages comes better functioning. When you function better at work, you are more efficient. Often, when you are more efficient, you have less work-related stress. You are better able to meet your deadlines, can focus better on your specific job tasks and duties, and have a better mood for interacting with your coworkers and supervisors.

Take a Break

By law, you are legally entitled to breaks throughout your workday. Of course, the number of breaks and duration of each break can vary depending on the length of your shift. It is advisable to take advantage of these breaks.

It can be easy to get so focused on a project or task that you forget to take breaks during the workday. You may be so busy that you forget to even take a lunch break. This is not healthy. It is so important to take breaks when appropriate at work. This gives your mind and body time to refresh and re-energize and focus on something other than work just for a moment.

Taking a break can also mean taking a day off. If you work full time, you are often allotted some paid time off throughout the year. Giving yourself time to decompress and relax, even just for a few minutes, can be very beneficial to your stress levels.

Go to Therapy

Therapy can be very beneficial when it comes to managing stress. Sometimes, just talking about problems and issues that stress you out can be helpful. Therapists can also provide some ideas for coping with your specific situation and challenges.

Therapy can also help you process your thoughts and feelings about your job and help you discover areas in which you may need to make changes. This could involve changes to your daily routine, changes to any extracurricular activities that may be causing stress, or appropriate changes to your job or role.

Make a Change

Sometimes, a change of job or career is what is most appropriate. Burnout is absolutely a real experience and often results in built-up and unresolved stress and tension. Sometimes, a job that is generating a lot of stress and anxiety may just not be a good fit. If this is the case, it is okay.

You might try several different career paths before settling into something you feel is a really good fit for you. Being self-aware and acknowledging when a change is needed is important. Many services and resources are available to help you discover career options that could be a good fit.

Again, it can be common for work-related stress to be a trigger for substance use, which can eventually lead to addiction. At Enlightened Recovery, we can help you develop strategies for coping with stress in healthy ways. We can teach you how to incorporate healthy habits and routines into your lifestyle to help you respond well when you feel stressed.

Work is sometimes stressful. For some, work can be stressful often. Sometimes, the lack of work or a job can be a stressor. Stress can lead to substance use, which can eventually lead to addiction. Learning to cope with stress in a healthy way is crucial. At Enlightened Recovery, we teach clients how to handle stressful situations throughout their recovery without using drugs or alcohol. You will learn strategies for reducing stress independently such as deep breathing techniques and meditation. You will also learn to identify when it might be time to get help or seek guidance. We incorporate holistic activities to benefit your overall health, which reduces stress and improves overall mood and mental health. If you or someone you care about is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, we would love to help. Give Enlightened Recovery a call today at (833) 801-LIVE.

Does My Loved One Have a Substance Addiction?

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Addiction, Family Recovery, Substance Abuse.

Wondering if your loved ones could have an addiction to alcohol or other drugs can be terrifying. Recognizing the warning signs and knowing how to respond can help alleviate the stress of this worrisome experience and enable you to know when to reach out for professional guidance and support.

Defining Addiction

Addiction is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and drug-using behavior despite the harmful consequences that it may cause. Although an individual’s initial decision to use drugs may be their choice, repeated drug use can impair brain functioning related to mechanisms of self-control. After a person begins to regularly use substances, substance use eventually becomes involuntary and causes long-lasting changes to the brain.

What Is a Substance Use Disorder?

The terms “addiction” and “substance use disorder” are often used interchangeably, as they describe similar conditions. A substance use disorder (SUD) is an umbrella term that describes serious medical conditions that affect an individual’s thought and behavior patterns. Addiction is a type of substance use disorder. It is important to recognize that having a SUD has nothing to do with one’s morality or who they are as a person. Instead, this diagnosis is often a result of extreme stressors or untreated underlying conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and/or other mental health conditions.

Frequently experienced by those with SUD is the act of self-medicating as a means of coping with mental health conditions or trauma. Many people who struggle with addiction have experienced some form of trauma, whether the trauma is acute or long-term. Their use of substances is but one way they have learned to cope with the aftermath of a devastating experience.

What Are 5 Warning Signs of Substance Use Disorder?

There are warning signs to watch for in your loved ones to discern their risk for the development of a SUD. Remember, your loved one is still your loved one, even if they are struggling to survive and are using maladaptive behaviors. They need compassion, not judgment.

Common warning signs of SUD include:

#1. Mood Changes

One immediate sign of a struggle can include mood changes. Your loved one may have bouts of anger and extreme mood swings. Your loved one may become defensive about their behaviors and express their emotions in a volatile manner. However, they may also be unable to express their emotions. During mood changes, one needs to consider the fact that something may have occurred, prompting the shift in your loved one’s expressions of emotions.

#2. A Lack of Interest in Previously Enjoyed Activities

Another sign of struggle in your loved one may be a lack of engagement with previously enjoyed activities. Your loved one may give up music, art, community activities, or any other activity that used to be a fundamental aspect of their life. Another element of this change may be that they are pawning previously loved items to fund their addiction-related behaviors.

#3. Physical Changes

Startling physical changes can be another indicator of a struggle with a SUD. Your loved one may lose or gain weight. Also, a change in their physical condition could be related to the development of other health conditions that seem out of line with your loved one’s normal physicality. Assess what your loved one is doing physically regarding diet and exercise; determine if their behaviors line up with previously established values or current medical changes. Do not immediately assume the worst. Your family member may be struggling with other health issues.

#4. Mental Changes

Mental changes in SUD vary depending upon the substance used. Your loved ones may seem more jumpy or lethargic. They may be unable to sit still or unable to stay awake. Your loved one’s words may slur, or they may be speaking so fast you cannot understand them. These are just a few examples of mental changes to watch for if you are concerned your loved one is struggling with addiction to alcohol or other substances.

#5. Withdrawing from Friends and Family

Your loved one may disengage from activities once enjoyed and may also eliminate and withdraw from people in their life with whom they were close. Your loved one may pull back and refuse to engage with you. They may avoid family gatherings and may even avoid talking to you on the phone.

What Can You Do to Help Your Loved One?

The most important thing you can do to help your loved one is to be present with them. Being present and willing to listen to your loved one, even as they might push you away, might save their life. Reminding your loved one that they are not alone and that you will stand alongside them is a powerful act of love and one that will not be forgotten as your loved one moves into a healthy recovery.

Recognizing warning signs as to whether a loved one may be struggling with an addiction to alcohol or other substances can be critical. Being aware of your loved one’s needs and helping them through the process of recovery is one of the best actions you can take to improve their chances of sustainable recovery. At Enlightened Recovery, we know watching a friend or family member struggle with substance use disorder can be heartbreaking, which is why we offer help to family members and friends as you navigate how best to support your loved one. We offer a variety of services, all focused on treating the whole individual. We recognize your loved ones are people with individual experiences and want to see them succeed. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, contact us today to learn how we can help.

Overdose and Substance Abuse Deaths are on the rise again

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Addiction Recovery, Overdose, Substance Abuse. No Comments on Overdose and Substance Abuse Deaths are on the rise again

Substance abuse and overdose deaths are common worldwide and have become a significant problem.

Individuals suffering from substance abuse are not receiving appropriate care and counseling during their time of need. This is why it’s essential to understand the effect of substance abuse before you can treat the problem.

This is where Enlightened Recovery comes into action with an all-encompassing approach to rehabilitation. This includes a strong 12-step approach involving music therapy, art therapy, medical detox, and more.

Substance abuse impacts millions of people worldwide and it can have life-altering effects on a person’s life. Research shows alcohol is the most common substance abused in America. Others on the list include cocaine, painkillers, and heroin.

This is why it’s important to understand the nuances of substance abuse and how it can impact a person’s life over the long haul.

Understanding Substance Abuse

Substance abuse refers to a consistent pattern of drug use leading to physical, psychological, and social difficulties. This can include deteriorating health, not going to work, and a whole host of other concerns that all stem from substance abuse.

Due to this, more and more people continue to be affected by substance abuse. If left untreated, it can have substantial repercussions on a person’s life. This can even include fatal consequences if a person continues to abuse drugs.

As a result, it has become more important than ever before to appreciate the value of rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is the best way to focus on the root cause of the issue and make sure the problem goes away for good with the help of specialists at Enlightened Recovery.

Increase in deaths

It’s also important to note, research indicates there is a 98% increase in opioid-related deaths in recent years. This is due to additional exposure to opioids across the world and them being readily accessible. If this goes unchecked, it can impact every aspect of a person’s life as the dependency continues to ramp up with time.

Additional research also states there has been a 25+% rise in cocaine-related deaths in America. While there’s been a 34.8% rise in methamphetamine-related deaths.

These figures demonstrate the effects of substance abuse and drug overdose. It’s important to understand this data and make changes for the future. This includes reaching out to a trustworthy rehabilitation facility and making it as accessible as possible.

Enlightened Recovery is committed to assisting those dealing with substance abuse and continues to be the go-to option for those in need. With world-class care, top-tier facilities, and a commitment to helping, this is the ultimate choice for those wanting to join a successful rehab program.

If you are looking to make a positive change and recover, a rehabilitation facility makes all the difference in the world.

Why is a rehab facility important?

It starts from the fact 3/5 deaths associated with substance abuse can be prevented. This demonstrates the importance of focusing on rehabilitation and using it as a starting point for leading a healthier life. Accessible care starts here and it’s essential for those needing a personalized treatment program with their needs in mind.

Each individual is different and that is why individualized treatment programs are a must.

These programs assess each aspect of a person’s lifestyle including the type of substance being abused, medical history, age, weight, and more. A specialist will guide a person through these details and come up with a tailored treatment program to combat the issue.

How To Overcome Substance Abuse

Research shows substance abuse has risen over the past few years due to the pandemic.

The connection between the pandemic and substance abuse is now clear. More and more people are leaning towards drugs during this time in their lives and it has led to an increase in substance abuse cases across the board. This is unfortunate as it shows the effect a person’s environment can have on their choices.

By being able to reach out to Enlightened Recovery, you are going to have the chance to improve your life too.

Whether the substance abuse stems from the pandemic or not, it’s best to overcome your problems with the help of Enlightened Recovery.

Treating Substance Abuse

One of the most important requirements for those dealing with any type of addiction is to know they are not alone. You are going to have consistent support around you every step of the way. Remember, there is nothing wrong with seeking help.

When you get the right type of treatment, it is going to change your life for the better and help you overcome this disorder the right way.

The reason Enlightened Recovery is a great fit has to do with its treatment of substance abuse. This includes detailed consultations, inpatient treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and residential treatment options too.

You are going to get the complete package here and that does make a real difference in how you feel about the entire process from day one.

Getting help for Substance Abuse

This is the best way to set a strong base for how you are going to treat substance abuse before it gets worse. There is nothing more important than being able to consult with a professional that understands how to tackle these problems the right way.

Having years of experience and a passion for assisting people, Enlightened Recovery has become a go-to option in the city for those wanting to overcome their substance abuse. Do not settle for less and make sure you are receiving guidance during this crucial time in your life as it is the best way to overcome these hurdles.

To learn more about rehabilitation for substance abuse, it’s important to start with an accredited team such as the one at Enlightened Recovery. This is a one-stop option for those who want to tackle this issue head-on and change their life for the better.

Take the time to sit down and speak to Enlightened Recovery for more information on what can be done to help you.

This is an opportunity to improve your lifestyle and start making healthier choices.