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Educators: Is Summer the Best Time to Pursue Treatment?

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in treatment.

The summer months offer educators time to focus on their needs. Many educators struggle with the management of mental health symptoms and various stressors throughout the school year, leading some to use various substances to help manage their symptoms and overwhelming emotions. Often, this repeated use of substances to manage their struggles can result in the development of a substance use disorder (SUD).

What Are Substance Use Disorders?

Addiction to alcohol or other substances or behaviors can be chronic and affect the brain in significant ways. Once you become dependent upon the substances or behaviors due to a dopamine surge, abstaining from substances or behaviors may seem impossible. However, with treatment, you can overcome the urges to use and pursue a life in education that is consistent with your values.

There are many reasons people choose to use substances, and there are more reasons why people become addicted to them. Scientists are still trying to root out the causes of addiction. However, we know that when a person struggles with their life, they want relief, and sometimes, the use of substances may provide just that. Unfortunately, the relief is short-term and leads to tolerance and sometimes dependence, often resulting in SUD. Life does not end with a diagnosis of SUD, and it’s important to remember that you are so much more than a diagnosis. You are an individual with a unique story and deserve the life you want. Begin that life by seeking treatment.

2 Reasons to Pursue Treatment

SUD is treatable. SUD is a real disease that can cause serious and harmful effects on the body and one’s life. Your social, professional, and personal life are all negatively impacted by the misuse of alcohol and/or other substances, but there is hope. Treatment at Enlightened Recovery can change your life and get you back to living the life you want.

#1. Be An Example

One primary reason many educators seek treatment is to be an example for their students. You may imagine how hard it is to advise students against substance misuse when you are struggling with the same issue. Seeking treatment and developing a plan to cope with urges will help you be more present for your students. You will also show your students what living in balance is like.

Being an example for your students is critical to your success as an educator. Not only are you teaching them content for classwork, but you are also teaching them how to manage stress and live a full and healthy life.

#2. You Can Overcome SUD

Another critical reason to pursue treatment is that you can overcome SUD. SUD is not a life sentence. While you may struggle with urges and triggers for many years, you will be able to overcome those urges to use by a careful focus on your recovery.

Choose Treatment, Choose Life

When you choose treatment at Enlightened Recovery, you are choosing to change your life and be more present. You are choosing a path that will lead you to success and, in some ways, your students to success.

Choosing treatment means you are choosing health. As you seek treatment and pursue recovery, your body heals. While not everyone experiences full health restoration, you can be assured that you will reap many benefits from seeking treatment. One benefit is that your brain will begin to function normally once again. Within weeks of treatment and detox, your brain begins “lighting up” as expected to certain stimuli. With this in mind, you can be assured that treatment will help you return to a life of helping others and your pursuit of knowledge.

Summer Treatment

At Enlightened Recovery, we know choosing treatment can be difficult in the midst of teaching during the school year. Why not take this summer and pursue your wellness? We offer a variety of treatment services to help you develop the skills you need to return to school this fall fully ready to tackle teaching.

We offer individual therapy and holistic care, encouraging you to adopt eating and sleeping habits that will improve your overall wellness. We also focus on the whole being, not just your emotions and physical self. We recognize that your whole being involves an element of spirituality, which is why we offer mentorship for you to develop yourself holistically. 

We want you to be ready to return to school this fall and be present, not only for your needs but also for the needs of others, including your students. You deserve to be your own advocate and be the best educator you can be.

The summer has arrived and may be the best opportunity for you to pursue healing from your addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to alcohol and/or other substances or behaviors, you are not alone and help is available. Being an advocate and role model for students can be difficult and sometimes overwhelming. But, remember, as an educator, you are an amazing individual and deserve exceptional care. Enlightened Recovery offers care at every stage of recovery, from detox to help in maintaining recovery after leaving. Our compassionate team knows and understands addiction. Contact Enlightened Recovery and learn how we can help you on your journey to wellness from addiction. Learn how to live your best life and be your own advocate through treatment at our southern New Jersey treatment facility. Call us today at (833) 801-LIVE and start your recovery.  

Seeking Treatment in College: Can You Overcome Addiction Over Summer Break?

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in treatment.

There is an epidemic of substance use in colleges across the nation, and there are multiple related risk factors for students. Many students may not even be willing to address their substance use problem until it has reached a point that it is affecting multiple facets of their life. While dealing with addiction to alcohol and/or other substances may seem overwhelming, help is available. You can overcome your addiction by seeking support from those who care about you and looking into treatment. These summer months, when students are off from school, are an ideal time to enter treatment for substance use issues.

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a real problem on college campuses and requires treatment. Although there are sometimes campus options for limited treatment, a treatment setting off-campus might be ideal for maintaining full privacy. Remembering that you are not alone and that help is available is key to developing a healthy mindset and getting the help you need. At Enlightened Recovery, we recognize that you need privacy in your treatment and want to help you achieve success in your academics, social life, and recovery.

4 Risk Factors for Substance Use Disorders

There are four risk factors for SUD found on college campuses and even in high school and lower grades. One must recognize that the risk for SUD is always there and that exposure to these risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing a SUD and make it difficult to battle and pursue recovery.

#1. Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is found in every college. It is not uncommon for universities to host parties with alcohol served. There is pressure to engage in the college scene and many college freshmen believe there are limited risks involved as they see so many other students engaging in drinking or using other substances. Students want to “fit in” with their peers, and avoiding situations where substances are used can be difficult for many students.

Standing up for oneself in college is one of the most difficult lessons to learn, and many students fear reprisal from their friends or classmates if they refuse substances.

#2. Involvement in Greek Life

“Members of fraternities and sororities have some of the highest rates of substance use on college campuses,” explains one study on substance use among college students. Not only is there an increased amount of peer pressure and academic pressure, but individuals involved in greek life are at greater risk of memory loss, sexual assault, and traumatic accidents as a result of substance use and misuse.

#3. Limited Understanding of Risks

For some college students, there is a limited understanding of the inherent dangers of substance use, and many students believe they can use intermittently without risk of developing tolerance (need for more and more of a substance to achieve the desired effect) or dependence. As a result, many students develop SUD and struggle with its effects long before they are aware of their problem.

#4. Perceived Academic Pressure

College is full of pressures, and peer pressure can be overwhelming, but another critical pressure is the need to succeed academically. Between parents and test scores, feeling a need to be the best in your classes can seem daunting, and you may have felt you needed substances to help you focus, calm down, or just ease your nerves. Now, you are struggling with SUD and don’t know where to turn. You are not alone. Academic pressure is real and can be a cause for the development of SUD, but help is available.

Treatment Options

SUD is a serious illness that requires treatment as soon as possible to avoid lifelong consequences. Treatment can be a part of your campus experience, but in many cases, you may want the privacy of a treatment program separate from your college or university.

Enlightened Recovery offers treatment based on who you are as an individual and your specific needs. We offer holistic treatment and mentorship and focus on sustainability, not just in the treatment setting but after you leave our facility. We want to see you succeed in your recovery. We offer individual therapy to help meet your specific needs and develop goals appropriate to your success in school and life. We will help you learn how to balance your expectations at school and in your personal life so that you can avoid those “people, places, and things.” We know you can achieve anything you set your mind to and want to help you along your path.

Choose recovery today and learn how to make better decisions for what some refer to as the best years of your life. Seek recovery over summer break and return to school ready to achieve success.

Battling substance use disorder should not be the end of your college career. You need to know that you are not alone in your struggle. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to alcohol or other substances, help is available. At Enlightened Recovery, we know how hard it is to balance school and social life without giving in to the pressures of your peers and the need for success in the classroom. We offer real solutions that will help you manage your responsibilities while maintaining privacy for your treatment. Reach out to us and learn how we can help you achieve recovery and return to school this fall with renewed purpose. Call Enlightened Recovery at (833) 801-LIVE and learn how we can help you overcome SUD and live your best life. We are dedicated to your success in recovery.

What Are the Benefits of Co-ed Group Therapy in Addiction Treatment?

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in treatment.

In 1990, the book Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus reached the forefront of society and changed our perspectives on gender. Suddenly, we focused on the differences between men and women instead of focusing on how different genders complement one another. While the experience of men differs from that of women, one can accept the fact that struggle is a part of life, and for some, both men and women, that struggle includes addiction to alcohol or other substances.

Addiction does not discriminate between genders. Men and women are both at risk of developing dysfunctional behaviors. Having specialized gender-based group therapies is critical to the growth of the individual and to one’s recovery from mental health conditions. However, having a mixed-gender group might enable participants to better understand themselves and communicate more effectively with all persons in their lives as well as develop more effective and varied coping strategies.

While many facilities focus on providing specific gender resources in treatment, at Enlightened Recovery, we offer a unique treatment program that is co-ed. Our program enables individuals to enhance their communication skills in varied circumstances and safely discuss the effects of their addictive behaviors with others.

Co-ed Groups Facilitate Communication

Different genders have different methods of communicating. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) suggests that women often defer to men in conversations, limiting their own interactions and focusing more on the needs of the other gender. Therefore, gender-specific groups can be helpful to women and men separately but do not always help individuals in communicating beyond treatment.

By combining men and women in one co-ed group and providing proper staff facilitation, women and men can learn how to communicate more effectively with other genders and improve their possibility of success in recovery. Another benefit of co-ed groups is related to the differences in one’s capacity to connect to their own gender. Some men are better able to communicate with women, and some women feel more compatible with men as friends than they do with other women. While having single-sex groups is important to facilitate growth, co-ed groups provide different opportunities for growth for all participants.

Men and Women May Cope Differently

There are two different coping patterns: problem-focused and emotion-focused. In an article on sex differences in coping strategies, researchers explain that men are more likely to use problem-focused coping strategies, whereas women are more prone to using emotion-focused coping strategies. With both strategies, one attempts to alleviate distress, but the efficacy of the strategy varies between persons and processes dependent upon the stressor.

The article further explains that women are more prone to apologizing for their behaviors and susceptible to depression and anxiety-related disorders as opposed to their male counterparts. Men are less likely to focus on emotional response, thereby limiting their ability to communicate their feelings and understand the emotions of others.

A benefit of co-ed group therapy is the meshing of coping strategies. Men can learn how to cope with their emotions in a more sustainable manner, and women can more effectively learn problem-focused coping skills. With the combination of genders, there is more opportunity for growth and development of a balanced outlook on life and recovery using different coping skills.

Benefits of Co-ed Groups for Life After Treatment

Life after treatment involves reintegration into your family, friend, work, and community life. In traditional single-gender treatment settings, there may be a sense of culture shock as you rejoin the world after treatment. Co-ed treatment, on the other hand, can help ameliorate the risk of culture shock by integrating all genders in treatment and providing you with comprehensive care aimed at helping you succeed in recovery both in and after treatment.

Not only will you be better prepared for life in the real world after treatment with co-ed groups, but you will also be better equipped to communicate with your romantic partner and other family members of another gender. You will have a better comprehension of the differences in communication styles and emotional responses between genders. You will be able to recognize fallacies in your own thinking as you engage with others. You will also be better prepared to help others recognize your needs without the manipulation of others’ coping strategies.

A final benefit of co-ed groups is learning and developing boundaries between yourself and other genders. While in active addiction, you may have forgotten communication styles and how to best support yourself without infringing on the boundaries of others in your life. Your partners and family members have also experienced your addictions. As you navigate co-ed treatment, you will learn the benefits of boundaries between genders and develop an understanding of others’ limitations, which will significantly impact your relationships with others as you reintegrate into your life after treatment. Recovery is possible, but communication, positive coping skills, and definitive boundaries are necessary for your success.

Men and women communicate and cope with stressors differently, which is why co-ed therapy can be so educational and beneficial. At Enlightened Recovery, we recognize the value of incorporating co-ed groups in our treatment. We know that all genders can teach others different methods of responding to problems, better enabling you to achieve success in recovery. We know you have the power to overcome addiction. We believe open communication in co-ed groups will help you succeed in recovery after you leave treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you need not feel alone in your struggle any longer. At Enlightened Recovery, we offer a variety of programs from inpatient to outpatient, and we want to ensure your success in recovery. We know you have the power to change and we want to help you. Call us at (833) 801-LIVE and ask how we can help.

You Are Not Alone

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in treatment.

Feeling a sense of community and togetherness is important for everyone. While there may be times in our lives when we prefer more alone time, it’s critical to make an attempt to surround yourself with people who can support and uplift you, especially in recovery.

Addiction can be very isolating, especially in the midst of your struggle. As you enter into treatment and throughout recovery, it’s very important to rebuild healthy relationships and connect with those around you who can be of support.

Equally as important as actually getting out there and attempting to make connections is selecting the right people and groups to connect with. Throughout treatment and recovery, you’ll be supported in identifying like-minded people who can offer support and encouragement throughout your recovery journey.

Benefits of Group Therapy

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “The natural propensity of human beings to congregate makes group therapy a powerful therapeutic tool for treating substance abuse, one that is as helpful as individual therapy, and sometimes more successful.”

Group therapy is something that is widely utilized throughout treatment and recovery programs – and for good reason. These programs offer many benefits that individual therapy sessions cannot. These benefits can include feeling a sense of connectedness to others who may be experiencing similar struggles. Additionally, group therapy can establish a sense of accountability with other individuals seeking treatment or in recovery. Information shared within groups can also be very enlightening and lead to self-discovery and confidence.

Offers A Sense of Connectedness

The term connectedness can mean many different things depending on the situation and setting. In treatment and recovery, connectedness usually means relationships with similar people and integration into your community. It’s important to establish a good network of supporters and maintain consistent engagement in activities to keep you involved and on track.

Group therapy offers connectedness by bringing individuals together who are facing similar struggles and have potentially overcome similar obstacles in life. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people by participating in group programs can keep you from feeling isolated and alone.

Encourages Accountability and Feedback

Another huge benefit to group therapy is the establishment of accountability. As you form relationships with others within your group, a natural sense of responsibility for your actions is created. As you share information and open up to others within your group, they are better able to support you and offer encouragement in times of need.

This accountability can be effective within the group and even exist outside of treatment. For example, as you maintain a consistent presence within the group, your attendance becomes expected. Should you be absent, it wouldn’t be unusual for another group member to reach out. Because relationships and bonds are formed within the group, you are able to reach out to other group members when you need encouragement or advice.

Promotes Self-Discovery and Confidence

Group therapy sessions often involve quite an abundance of sharing of information, experiences, struggles, fears, and even successes and goals. As a result, being present and hearing about others’ experiences and ways of coping with similar obstacles can be very helpful. It’s not uncommon to have blind spots when it comes to your own treatment and recovery journey. Listening to others share information about their own treatment and recovery experiences can be relatable and often enlightening.

The more you know about yourself and what you need to be successful, the more confident you become. Group sessions allow for presenting ideas and sharing feedback, brainstorming, and sharing what has worked and what hasn’t worked for group members. Group treatment is often thought of as being about expressing and sharing, but it can also be very informative. Studies show that the more confident you are in yourself and your ability to maintain sobriety leaving treatment, the lower your chances of relapse.

While this article has focused heavily on the benefits of group therapy and treatment sessions, it’s important to know that there are other avenues for feeling connected and supported outside of treatment. Such places to find connections in the recovery community can include Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) groups. As mentioned, in the midst of addiction, it’s common for you to feel distanced from family members, friends, and other social groups. As you progress through treatment and recovery, you will have the opportunity to reconnect and rebuild relationships and will be encouraged to find your new place in society through meetings such as these.

Remembering that you are not alone in your treatment and recovery journey is very important. Lean on those who are there to support you, and prioritize participation in group therapy and programs. By engaging fully in the process and trusting your plan for treatment, you can set yourself up for success and remain motivated to stay on track.

Addiction can leave you feeling disconnected and isolated; remember that you are not alone. Treatment and recovery programs often implement group therapy to provide reassurance of this. Group therapy and programs can be beneficial in many ways. By creating a sense of connectedness, these programs can serve as a safe place for sharing and learning among peers. Hearing the stories, failures, and successes of others can be very motivating and comforting. Group programs also offer accountability among group members. Enlightened Recovery provides group programs and activities to promote whole-person treatment and encourage holistic living. We complete a thorough assessment at intake to understand your situation completely, then consider what treatment programs and activities are most appropriate. Let us create an individualized treatment plan to address your unique needs. If you or someone you care about is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE. 

Why Outpatient Treatment Is Vital to Success

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in treatment.

When you look into various treatment center options and scroll through their programs, you will almost always see options for outpatient programs. According to the Psychology Services journal, “Substance abuse intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are direct services for people with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental and substance use disorders who do not require medical detoxification or 24-hour supervision.” Outpatient care serves as a middle ground, if you will, between inpatient care and full independence. Typically, outpatient programs incorporate similarly structured meetings, therapies, and groups but allow for “normal life” to resume in between these appointments.

This ability to keep up with everyday life obligations while participating in treatment is possible due to the flexible schedules that outpatient programs offer. Many facilities offer several schedule options to choose from. During the initial assessment, your level of care will be determined, and a treatment plan will be created with hours required per week, frequency of attendance, and so on. Typically, engagement in activities and groups is required at least a few times per week and can be suggested daily for some.

Outpatient care incorporates both group and individual therapy sessions, all with varied topics selected based on your individual needs and situation. Group and therapy topics and treatment offerings can include:

  • Mood, grief/loss, and anger management
  • Body-image disorders
  • Codependency
  • Co-occurring diagnosis and treatment
  • Life skills
  • Healthy boundaries
  • Relapse prevention
  • Sober living preparation
  • Sustainable living practices

Who Are Outpatient Programs For?

Individuals who may be a good fit for outpatient programs could include those who have been through detox and residential programs already and are looking to continue with services. Outpatient care could also benefit those who have been sober for a while and may still need some support or encouragement.

Outpatient programs are often recommended when an individual who has been through detox and residential programs relapses or is battling the idea. If this is the case, outpatient care can be just the thing to keep you on the right track and focused on maintaining your sobriety.

If you are maintaining a job but struggling with substance abuse while in lower-level care, outpatient programs may be just what you need. IOPs will allow you to remain employed while receiving the help and support you need. Many parents are able to fulfill their parental responsibilities while still participating in outpatient programs. With schedules offered in the morning or the evening, childcare can often be arranged around treatment appointments.

It is important to understand that outpatient care is not suitable for everyone. Some may need the higher level of care offered by inpatient or residential programs in order to address their specific needs. Inpatient care may be the best fit for you if you have an advanced substance use disorder, a co-occurring mental health disorder, or have never been through treatment. While some outpatient programs will treat those with co-occurring disorders, these individuals are often best served and supported by residential programs.

Why Are IOPs Important?

Outpatient care is often a natural and obvious next step for many who complete residential programs. Many times, they are transitioning from a very structured, supervised environment and may not be quite ready for life without support and services. This can even feel comforting to some graduating from residential programs, as they felt safe and confident in their ability to stay on track with around-the-clock support and supervision.

Outpatient care can also serve as a line of defense for someone in danger of relapsing. Situational stressors or tough circumstances can lead to temptation. Accountability is established with regular checking to ensure you are participating in your plan for treatment along with random drug testing. Seeking help from an outpatient program is an excellent way to ensure you remain on course.

Creating an environment that will set you up for success outside of treatment is critical to your recovery long term. Outpatient programs offer groups that are designed to help you establish this so you feel confident in your ability to stay on track even outside of groups and treatment. Sober living groups, for example, offer tools and strategies to implement to ensure you feel prepared for life beyond treatment.

Part of creating a safe environment for yourself outside of treatment includes community involvement and integration. Finding people within your community who are like-minded and can offer support and encouragement is critical. Outpatient program staff are there to help you seek and identify these people and groups and can help connect you.

If you fit the criteria mentioned above and are either in recovery in need of some extra support or have an addiction requiring a low level of care, consider outpatient programs. Think of it as an extracurricular, if you will, that still allows you to carry on with everyday life while addressing your needs and helping you manage your addiction.

Outpatient care programs are offered by many treatment facilities and can serve as the next step after residential treatment or primary treatment for those experiencing addiction requiring only low levels of care. Outpatient care is an excellent resource for those in recovery who may still be struggling and need some encouragement. At Enlightened Recovery, we offer an intensive outpatient program that begins with a comprehensive assessment of your individual needs followed by a treatment plan created specifically to address them. If this program is deemed a fit for you, the majority of your time will be spent outside of treatment, allowing you to maintain your employment or fulfill other obligations. Enlightened Recovery prioritizes treating the whole person throughout the entire treatment process. Often, this means offering continued support throughout recovery and the following relapse. If you are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE. 

Music: Therapy in Song

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in treatment.

The sense of sound is one we use daily. Sounds can alert us by serving as reminders – take that obnoxious alarm clock, for example. Sounds in the form of music can also remind us of the past or prompt us to reflect on certain memories. Do you find yourself listening to music from the ‘80s or ’90s and experiencing a little nostalgia as a result? Music can be a very powerful thing. Have you ever gotten chills while listening to a particular song or artist? How do you feel when your favorite song comes on the radio? Music can evoke many different emotions and can even spark creativity.

Music has the ability to make us feel something, say something, or understand something that perhaps we could not feel, say, or understand otherwise. Music can serve as an outlet or a method of expression for many. Depending on the style and volume, music can also be very relaxing and soothing. In treatment and recovery programs, music can serve as a therapeutic tool to help with coping, understanding, and overcoming addiction.

What Is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is “the professional use of music and its elements as an intervention in medical, educational, and everyday environment with individuals, groups, families, or communities, who seek to optimize their quality of life and improve their physical, social, communicative, emotional, intellectual and spiritual health and well‐being.” While it sounds simple, music therapy can be very comprehensive and can serve many purposes when it comes to treatment and recovery.

Music therapy is an evidence-based approach that uses music to improve things such as mental health, mood, stress levels, or self-expression. It has also been shown to improve coping abilities and increase self-esteem for some. This unique form of treatment uses music to address individuals’ emotional, cognitive, physical, or even social needs.

It is important to distinguish between music or sound therapy and sound healing. Music therapy is used to trigger an emotional response, while sound therapy utilizes specific sounds to heal the mind and body. While they may sound similar in title, they are very different treatment methods.

Depending on the setting, music therapy can involve a variety of activities. Activities are selected based on the needs of the treatment recipients and what is most appropriate. Some common activities that might take place during music therapy include listening to music, writing songs, making music, singing, dancing, or even discussing and reflecting on music.

Who Can Benefit From Music Therapy?

Music therapy is practiced in a variety of settings. These may include nursing homes, schools, recreational programs, and treatment facilities. Studies have been conducted to understand the benefits music therapy can have on individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and mental illness. Research into the benefits of music therapy for those with Alzheimer’s disease and cardiac conditions has also shown its effectiveness. Learn more about ways in which music therapy can improve symptoms of depression here.

Music can serve as a tool for processing things such as difficult emotions, trauma, and grief. The ability music has to assist with processing is one of the reasons this form of therapy is so widely used to treat different populations. In addition to the benefit of assisting with processing is the accessibility. Music is easily accessible for almost anyone in almost any setting and can allow you to express your feelings and thoughts in a creative way.  Learn more about encouraging creativity as part of treatment here.

Music Therapy for Addiction

Research suggests that music therapy is beneficial when used in treatment and recovery settings for many reasons. Music has been found to increase levels of dopamine, resulting in a better mood and a more optimistic attitude. Music has also been found to reduce levels of cortisol, which, in turn, reduces stress levels. It has even been suggested that music can improve the body‘s immune system functioning, which, following addiction, can be somewhat suppressed.

As mentioned above, music is very accessible. This makes music easy to use in almost any treatment setting. For instance, music can be implemented easily and naturally into outpatient group therapy sessions and throughout residential treatment programs and activities.

In these settings, music can be used to promote and encourage connection, assist with communication, or even identify triggers. Music therapy is typically used to supplement other treatment methods, so consultation with a collaborative treatment team prior to providing the service is common. Consider seeking an addiction treatment facility that incorporates unique treatment methods, such as music therapy, and make the most of your journey to recovery.

Music therapy, while it may seem a little unconventional, can serve as an excellent treatment method for people battling many different conditions, diseases, and circumstances. Studies have shown music therapy’s benefits to both mental and physical health. Music is powerful and can evoke emotion, encourage communication, or even serve as a method of communication, aid with processing, and more. At Enlightened Recovery, we utilize holistic treatment methods that focus on binding the mind, body, and spirit. We offer a unique program that will help you improve your overall health, build your confidence, teach you coping techniques, and help you rebuild relationships. Let us support you in achieving your goals and support you throughout your journey to recovery. If you or someone you know is impacted by drug or alcohol addiction, don’t hesitate to take action. Pick up the phone and call Enlightened Recovery today at (833) 801-LIVE. 

How Does Alcoholics Anonymous Really Work?

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in 12 Step Program, Addiction Recovery, Alcoholism, treatment. No Comments on How Does Alcoholics Anonymous Really Work?

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a fellowship of people in recovery from addiction that has helped millions of people in the United States and across the globe. A recent scientific review of numerous studies found that AA helps people maintain abstinence in the long term more than other addiction treatment methods. 

Alcoholics Anonymous provides a setting where you can learn from shared experiences, develop strong support networks and interpersonal skills, and experience the healing power of helping one another. AA meetings are free, accessible to everyone, and can offer support throughout your entire recovery journey.

What Is Alcoholics Anonymous?

Alcoholics Anonymous is an informal society that encourages people in recovery to meet together in support groups and share their experiences of addiction. It has a community of over two million members worldwide and aims to facilitate the sharing of strength, hope, and mutual support between members as they move forward in a sober lifestyle.

AA membership is free – the only requirement is the initial will to stop drinking. AA is non-political and is not aligned with any other institution. Meetings are self-organized, and there is no central authority directing the operation of each group. Members are free to design their meetings in the way that best suits their members.

What Is the 12-Step Method and How Does It Help Addiction Recovery?

When Bill Wilson and Dr. Robert Holbrook founded Alcoholics Anonymous almost one hundred years ago, they collectively wrote ‘The Big Book’, which lays out the 12-step method for addiction recovery. 

While not all AA programs now follow the 12-steps, most members find them to be a powerful tool for overcoming addiction and maintaining abstinence. Many other self-help groups, including Narcotics Anonymous and Gamblers Anonymous, have also adopted the 12-step philosopy. 

The steps can be split into three main stages:

Acceptance

The first steps involve accepting that you are powerless over your addiction and giving yourself over to a higher power. Accepting your addiction helps you overcome feelings of shame and re-instills a sense of self-worth. You learn to love yourself so you can love the world around you and commit to a life of sobriety.

Personal Growth

The next steps focus on spiritual development and personal growth. They involve recognizing harmful thought patterns and behaviors and replacing them with healthier habits and decisions. They also require making amends to others for the harm you have caused them. This helps you avoid destructive feelings of guilt and lets you find self-worth in the humility and compassion you have shown.

Helping Others

The final step is to share the 12-steps with other people in alcohol recovery. Teaching the 12-steps to others helps you reinforce the steps in yourself and strengthens your commitment to your recovery goals.

What Are the Benefits of Alcoholics Anonymous Over Other Treatment Options?

  • AA’s most powerful asset is its ubiquity and accessibility. Addiction is a chronic illness, and recovery is a lifelong process. You can attend AA meetings free for the rest of your life, providing you with a constant source of invaluable support and guidance.
  • AA meetings also give you the chance to support others in recovery. Helping another recovering alcoholic helps you to heal and remain committed to your own recovery journey.
  • When you join a local AA program, you become part of a local community. You’ll meet other people who share your goals and form strong friendships. You may also spend time with these friends outside of AA sessions, which can help you stay away from alcohol and triggers.

At Enlightened Recovery, our entire treatment program is rooted in the 12-step philosophy. We integrate the 12-steps into our treatment approaches and connect you to local AA groups to support you once you have left the center.

Enlighted Solutions is a licensed co-occurring treatment facility- we focus on healing the whole person, not just treating the addiction. Our individualized recovery plans combine a range of treatment modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family constellation therapy, art and music therapy, yoga and meditation, acupuncture and chiropractic work, and equine-assisted therapy. Our location near the southern shore of New Jersey allows us to provide optimal healing and relaxation.

If you seek relief from addiction, or if someone close to you does, please call us at (833) 801-5483 for more information.

Getting the Most Out of Your Recovery With Yoga

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Anxiety Disorder, Healthy Living, treatment, wellness. No Comments on Getting the Most Out of Your Recovery With Yoga

Yoga is a practice that uses physical poses to connect the mind, body and breath. The benefits of yoga include stress relief, pain management, and a general improvement in overall well-being. It also helps you gain self-awareness and explore your spirituality. 

Yoga is a powerful tool for holistic healing and recovery from addiction. Substance abuse treatment programs use yoga to help prevent relapse, ease withdrawal symptoms, and provide a healthy way to cope with stress and other negative emotions. It can be an integral part of your daily routine at a treatment center and for the rest of your recovery journey.

How Can Yoga Help You Cope With Stress and Anxiety?

Almost half of the people with a substance use disorder also suffer from an underlying mental health condition. Feelings of anxiety, stress, or depression can cause people to turn to drug abuse – drugs and alcohol may produce temporary calming effects or provide an escape from reality.

Part of the addiction recovery process is learning to reduce anxiety and stress and deal with these feelings in healthier ways. Feelings of anxiety stem from the central nervous system – it is your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. Yoga can help regulate your nervous systems, making you feel calmer and more relaxed, which in turn reduces the urge to seek a substance.

Yoga can affect your nervous system by impacting GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels in the brain. GABA is a chemical that inhibits brain activity and calms your central nervous system. Research has found that yoga increases GABA levels, improving mood and reducing anxiety.

Yoga may also affect the ‘vagus nerve’, a powerful nerve that delivers messages from the brain to the digestive, respiratory, and nervous systems. The vagus nerve causes a calming response in your nervous system, reducing feelings of anxiety and stress. Yoga involves breathing exercises and other practices that can activate this nerve, helping you manage stress and experience feelings of oneness.

How Does Yoga Help to Manage Pain?

Many people start using prescription drugs like opioids to relieve chronic physical pain and later become addicted. People in recovery may search for another way to ease their pain and yoga can help. 

Lower back pain is one of the most common forms of chronic pain and affects millions of people in the United States. Research has shown Iyengar yoga can be used to decrease the intensity of lower back pain of participants and increase their health-related quality of life – that is, improve the aspects of their well-being that their health impacts. In addition, it can help prevent someone from returning to drugs to relieve pain and the feelings of depression that often accompany it.

How Can You Use Yoga Alongside the 12-Step Program?

The 12-steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are a set of guiding principles for overcoming addiction and maintaining sobriety. They focus on self-acceptance, spiritual well-being, and the development of meaningful bonds between one another. Yoga can support addiction recovery and offer a holistic healing experience that is cognitive, spiritual, and somatic – so it works very well alongside the 12-step program.

Practicing yoga is a way to explore these principles from a body-mind approach. It is an opportunity for introspection where you can learn to accept yourself as a whole. Yoga and meditation also further the development of your spirituality. They can help fulfill the sense of longing for connection or deeper experience that many recovering addicts (people in recovery) recognize as an underlying cause of their addiction.

Enlightened Recovery is a licensed co-occurring treatment center that focuses on healing the whole person rather than merely treating the addiction. Our treatment program is rooted in the 12-step philosophy and offers each client an individualized recovery plan.

At Enlightened Recovery, we offer a range of treatment modalities to provide a holistic healing experience. Our treatment plans include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family constellation therapy, art and music therapy, yoga and meditation, acupuncture and chiropractic work, and equine-assisted therapy. You will find us near the southern shore of New Jersey, where we provide optimal healing and relaxation.

If you seek relief from addiction, or if someone close to you does, please call us at (833) 801-5483 to learn more about our treatment options.

The Inner Workings of Rehab

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Addiction, Addiction Recovery, Recovery, treatment. No Comments on The Inner Workings of Rehab

Recovery from alcohol or drug addiction isn’t easy. Overcoming addictive behaviors and staying sober requires motivation, support, and expertise. Rehab centers offer just this. They offer evidence-based treatment approaches under the guidance of professional staff and provide compassionate care to help you develop the skills to overcome your addiction and remain committed to sober living.

What Is the Difference Between Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab?

There are two types of rehab centers – inpatient and outpatient. Outpatient centers offer part-time programs that fit in around your daily life. Programs may offer 10-20 hours of treatment each week so you can continue to work and fulfill other obligations.

Inpatient programs are intensive, residential rehab programs where you stay in the treatment facility. Programs vary in length but most last at least thirty days. Inpatient programs offer a safe and controlled environment with twenty-four-hour medical support. They tend to be more effective than outpatient programs for more severe cases of addiction. 

What Treatment Options Do Rehab Centers Offer?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the most effective treatment programs offer a combination of different treatment options tailored to match each individual’s needs. Everyone’s experience of addiction is different, and no single treatment approach suits everyone. Rehabilitation programs tend to offer a variety of different therapies and holistic healing approaches to provide a treatment experience that works for you.

These treatment options may include:

  • Individual therapy
  • 12-step program
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical-behavioral therapy
  • Group therapy and support groups
  • Experiential therapies such as music therapy and art therapy
  • Dual diagnosis
  • Family therapy
  • Yoga and meditation
  • Medically assisted detox

Addiction treatment programs help you identify the causes of your addiction and develop the skills to overcome them. This may involve learning what your triggers are and how to avoid them or developing coping skills to deal with triggers in healthy ways. 

Rehabilitation also aims to improve your mental and spiritual well-being. It is a chance to find joy and inspiration in sober life and commit to your recovery journey.

What Is Dual Diagnosis and How Does It Help Treat Addiction?

Almost 50% of people with a substance use disorder also suffer from another mental health condition. Co-occurring disorders like anxiety and depression can be the driving force behind addiction. If ignored, they can cause addictive behaviors to resurface, even after years of sobriety.

Dual diagnosis programs treat co-occurring disorders alongside addiction. They offer a holistic healing approach that aims to treat the entire person. Dual diagnosis helps you overcome the underlying causes of your addiction so you can maintain sobriety in the long term.

What Are The Different Stages of a Rehab Experience?

A recovery program usually begins with an in-depth assessment of the nature of your addiction and your circumstances. This allows therapists, medics, psychologists, and other staff to design a treatment plan to suit you.

For most people, the next stage in the recovery process is detox, to remove all traces of the substance and its toxins from your body. Rehab centers typically offer medically assisted detox to ensure that withdrawal is as safe and comfortable as possible. 

After detox, the main part of the treatment program begins. You participate in therapy sessions, support groups, and other treatment modalities over several weeks or months. During this time, you learn and develop the skills you need to overcome addiction.

The final stage of rehabilitation is aftercare. Recovery is a lifelong process that requires continued support and commitment. Rehab programs may connect you with support groups in your local area, provide you with a sober companion, or offer guidance to family members. 

Aftercare programs help you to stay supported and motivated once you have left a rehab center and guide you to lifelong recovery.

If you are struggling with addiction or substance abuse, recovery can seem scary or even impossible. However, with the proper support, anyone can recover from addiction. 

At Enlightened Recovery, we offer our clients a variety of evidence-based tools to assist them with moving forward in their sober journey. We focus on healing the whole person and not just treating their addiction. Our world-class treatment program is rooted in the 12-step philosophy and offers each client an individualized recovery plan.

We offer a range of advanced treatment modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family constellation therapy, art and music therapy, yoga and meditation, massage, acupuncture and chiropractic care. Our location near the southern shore of New Jersey offers unparalleled healing and relaxation.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, please call us at (833) 801-5483 for more information.

 

 

Somatoform Disorder Is Scary, but What Is It?

Written by Enlightened Recovery on . Posted in Anxiety Disorder, Mental Health, treatment. No Comments on Somatoform Disorder Is Scary, but What Is It?

Somatoform disorders are a group of psychiatric conditions where you experience unexplained pain and other bodily symptoms. Somatoform symptoms cause serious distress but are not entirely attributable to any known medical condition or other mental disorder, and they can have a considerable impact on your daily life and well-being.

Symptoms of somatoform disorder manifest in different ways. These include:

  • Pain
  • Neurological disorders relating to your central nervous system 
  • Problems in your stomach, gut, and digestive system
  • Sexual problems

Having a somatoform disorder can be stressful and frustrating. You may feel unsatisfied that there is not a simple medical cause that doctors can treat to end the pain. Sometimes friends, loved ones, and others around you do not appreciate the levels of distress and the challenges you face as a result of the illness. However, the distress and sensation of pain you experience are real, even if there isn’t an underlying medical explanation.

While it may not be possible to find a medical cause, you can still treat and recover from somatoform disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and treatment for co-occurring disorders can all help to manage symptoms so you can enjoy your daily life.

What Are Some Types of Somatoform Disorder?

There are many types of somatoform disorder, including:

  • Somatization disorder – where you experience several different kinds of physical symptoms
  • Undifferentiated somatoform disorder – which causes a smaller range of symptoms
  • Conversion disorder – causing only voluntary motor or sensory function symptoms
  • Pain disorder – where psychological factors cause or worsen pain
  • Body dysmorphic disorder – where you become overly concerned by a real or imaginary defect on your body
  • Hypochondriasis – an illness anxiety disorder where you are extremely worried about your health

How Does Somatoform Disorder Relate to Depression and Anxiety?

Somatoform disorders often lead to general health anxiety and fears about the cause of the bodily symptoms. However, stress and other mental health issues may also be a driving force behind the disorder. A study by the American Psychiatric Journal found strong associations between somatoform disorders and other psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety and depression. 

How Does Somatoform Disorder Lead to Substance Abuse?

Somatic symptoms and other related disorders cause bodily pain that can be severe and difficult to manage. As a result, you may turn to drugs or alcohol to try to ease symptoms and escape from feelings of stress and frustration.

Marijuana, opioid painkillers, and benzodiazepines can all help to relieve pain and anxiety. However, these drugs are also addictive. Using illicit drugs or prescription drugs in ways other than your doctor prescribes may lead to substance use disorders that can devastate your health and social life.

How Does Drug Use Affect Somatoform Disorder?

Drug abuse and addiction may also affect somatic symptoms. Medications like opioid painkillers can make you hypersensitive to pain and exacerbate the symptoms of somatoform disorders. In addition, withdrawal symptoms and side effects of drug abuse may worsen gastrointestinal, sexual, and coordination problems.

How Can You Treat Somatoform Disorder?

Somatic disorder treatment often involves different kinds of therapy and treatment for co-occurring disorders like substance use disorders, anxiety, and depression which may underlie somatic symptoms. 

Treatment is more successful if doctors recognize the disorder quickly and avoid unnecessary testing and ineffective treatments. In addition, health care professionals should deliver diagnosis and treatment with empathy and a complete understanding of the pain and distress the patient is experiencing.

Treatment for co-occurring substance use and somatic form disorders should treat both illnesses simultaneously. Somatoform disorders can be a driving factor behind substance abuse, and if ignored, drug-seeking behaviors can re-emerge, even after long periods of sobriety. Holistic treatment that focuses on underlying mental and physical conditions is fundamental to recovering from both kinds of disorder.  

Enlightened Recovery is a licensed co-occurring treatment center. We offer a holistic treatment program that treats underlying mental health issues alongside addiction. Our location on the picturesque south shores of New Jersey provides an optimal setting for healing and relaxation.

Our treatment program is rooted in the 12-step philosophy, and we provide each client with an individualized recovery plan. We offer a range of treatment modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family constellation therapy, yoga and meditation, acupuncture and chiropractic work, and equine-assisted therapy. If you or someone close to you seeks relief from addiction, please call us at (833) 801-5483 for more information about our treatment options.