Categories
Sobriety

Addiction Treatment: Here’s Why You Should Celebrate Sobriety

One of the things that makes us human is our desire to celebrate milestones. Whether it’s a birthday or a wedding anniversary, years of service with an employer or the anniversary of a significant accomplishment, it is important to recognize the good things about ourselves, the positive impacts that we have on the people around us, and the things we have achieved.

The same applies to addiction treatment and recovery. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of celebrating sobriety milestones. More importantly, we will explore how this can be great for your addiction treatment.

Why Celebrate A Sobriety Milestone?

Why Celebrate A Sobriety Milestone

As accomplishments go, sobriety is a big one. Overcoming an addiction takes a great deal of courage, strength, determination, and hard work. One of the biggest reasons why you should celebrate sobriety is to remind yourself of the courage it took to make the decision to embark on addiction recovery.

There are other benefits to celebrating addiction treatment milestones. It provides an opportunity for you to stop and reflect on how far you have come since you started addiction recovery. Where you may once have been on the brink of financial disaster and surrounded by broken relationships, you might now be established in a regular job, and you may have at least one or two positive relationships to enrich your life. 

Sobriety birthdays are also a time to reflect on how you got to where you are now. It is likely that you got some help along the way. Some recovering addicts use their sobriety birthdays to thank their sponsors and the loved ones who supported them. For others, it is an opportunity to provide support to those who are in the early stages of their own journeys.

Perhaps most importantly, you should celebrate your sobriety birthday because you deserve it. You have worked hard on your addiction recovery to get to this point. Therefore, you should reward yourself, bask in the accomplishment, and let this good feeling you have carry you to your next sobriety milestone.

Related article: Tips For Maintaining Sobriety During Social Distancing

Ways To Celebrate Sobriety Milestones During Recovery

In a society that associates celebrations with alcohol, it can be difficult for recovering addicts to find ways to give their sobriety milestones the attention they deserve. But with some creative thinking, it is possible to come up with some good ways to celebrate these occasions.

Here are a few ideas.

Do something to help your community

For some recovering addicts, sobriety birthdays are a time for self-reflection. They celebrate by helping people – or animals – who need it. This could take many forms: volunteering at a food bank, walking dogs at an animal shelter, or picking up litter at a local park. Those who are musically inclined could give a performance at a senior care facility. 

Not only does this form of celebration make the world around you a better place, it increases your own happiness. Several studies show a link between initiating acts of kindness and being happy.

Arrange a picnic with close friends and family members

If the weather is nice, you and the loved ones who have supported you in your journey could head out to a scenic spot for a picnic. Unless you are planning to include a lot of people, you don’t have to plan anything in advance. Just pack up a picnic lunch and go for a drive, enjoying the scenery along the way. You could combine the picnic with activities like hiking, fishing (if you have a permit) or some friendly sports activities.

What makes this a great way of celebrating sobriety is that you can include people of all ages, from babies to great grandparents. It provides a way of connecting with the people you love in a natural setting.

Host a dinner party

If it’s a more lavish celebration you’re after, invite some loved ones over for dinner. If cooking appeals to you, you could serve up your best dishes, but ordering in is also an option. Having dinner at someone’s home – either yours or someone else’s – removes the risk of being tempted to order alcohol at a restaurant. 

At the same time, you can still generate a sense of occasion by asking guests to dress up, and by laying out some decorations. For beverages, you could serve sparkling grape juice or come up with your own custom mocktail. 

Make a weekend of it

Make a weekend of it

Apart from why you should celebrate sobriety, perhaps you don’t want to celebrate your sobriety milestone with a group of people. Maybe you would rather have a private weekend getaway with a spouse or partner. This is the perfect occasion to dust off your bucket list and start checking off items. Is there some place in the country you’ve always wanted to go to?

If you do go away, choose your destination carefully. Avoid known “party spots”, and instead opt for a location that is quiet and scenic. To make your stay more relaxing, remember to ask the hotel to clear out the minibar before you arrive.

Attend a sports game

While some people relish the idea of celebrating their sobriety milestones, other people find it difficult. These anniversaries can serve as a painful reminder of their days of addiction, especially if they lost something important to them, like a relationship that could not be saved. If you are one of these people, the answer might be some good old-fashioned distraction.

Round up a friend or two – or several – and go to a football or baseball game. For a few hours at least, you can get caught up in the action instead of focusing on unhappy memories. To avoid the temptation of alcohol, attend college games. The athletes display a high level of skill, and many college venues do not allow alcohol.

How To Avoid Relapse During A Sobriety Milestone

Sobriety birthdays are a time for you to feel good about what you have accomplished, but for those who are still hurting, the risk of relapse can be higher. Even though you now know why you should celebrate sobriety milestones, you should remain careful.

There are a few things you can do to make it easier to enjoy your day without thinking about drugs or alcohol:

  • Pretend it’s your birthday. Blow out candles on a cake while loved ones sing to you.
  • Don’t celebrate alone, especially if this milestone is difficult for you.
  • Even if you have no intention on consuming alcohol, avoid venues that focus on alcohol consumption.
  • Attend your regular support group meeting and offer words of encouragement to someone who is newer to the recovery process.

Once you have celebrated your first sobriety milestone, don’t stop. Make every anniversary a special occasion. You have earned it, and you should feel proud of what you have accomplished.

Contact 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: Don’t Relapse: The Comprehensive Guide to Coping With Addiction Cravings and Relapse

Categories
Addiction Recovery

8 Exercises That Can Help With Addiction Recovery

Addiction treatment is a multifaceted process that includes therapy and counselling, education, treatment for physical and mental conditions arising from the addiction, and specific exercises for addiction recovery.

If you are in doubt, exercise can actually help with your addiction treatment process. There are many addiction treatment benefits you can enjoy from exercising regularly. In this blog, we will show you why you should exercise during addiction recovery. More importantly, we will highlight the best addiction treatment exercises for your addiction recovery process. 

How Can Exercise Help With Addiction?

While exercise on its own is unlikely to be enough, its presence or absence can mean the difference between a recovery attempt failing or succeeding. Exercise has many proven benefits for the general population: for those with addictions, these benefits are amplified.

They include the following:

Physical health

Addiction can have some far-reaching impact on the body, and an important component of addiction recovery is the rebuilding of physical health. As the body regains some of its strength, the addict is able to focus more on the therapeutic elements of rehab.

addiction recovery

Mental health

Most forms of exercise release endorphins, which produce a sense of euphoria either during or after the workout. Physical activity is increasingly becoming an integral part of treatment plans for stress, depression and anxiety.

Distraction

One of the most challenging prospects faced by a recovering addict is learning how to handle cravings. For someone who is not accustomed to being sober, this can seem daunting. Exercise can provide the perfect distraction until the craving passes.

Increased energy

Although many people regard exercise as tiring, it actually serves as an energy boost. This is amplified by the fact that people who exercise regularly sleep better.

What Are The Best Exercises For Addiction Treatment?

In order for a recovering addict to be able to exercise regularly, they have to find a form of exercise that they enjoy. Trying to force a workout regimen that feels more like torture can be counterproductive. It is not sustainable, and when the person is not successful in that form of exercise, their self-esteem can suffer and they can be at risk of a relapse. 

In this section, we list eight exercises for addiction recovery. There is bound to be something on this list for everybody!

Go For A Run

Go For A Run

Running is a universal activity that almost everyone can do. All you need is a decent pair of shoes and a safe place to run. Running is great at generating that endorphin rush – a feeling that runners fondly refer to as “the runner’s high”. 

This is a great choice for those who are highly goal-oriented because there are many road racing events to work towards. By choosing a race that has a set date, you can then put together a training program that leads you to that race. Not only do you get the exercise and all of the health benefits that come from it, but you can also build structure into your life.

Take A Walk

 

If you are not accustomed to exercising, it is important to build up slowly in order to avoid injury and demotivation. Walking for as little as ten minutes a day can make stress levels start to drop, and as your physical fitness improves, those walks will get longer. 

A fantastic variation of walking is hiking. The great thing about this activity is that there are options for every skill level. If you have never gone hiking before, start with some easy trails, take it slow, and stop often to admire the scenery around you. All you need is hiking shoes and a bottle of water, and if the sun is out, some sunscreen. 

Go Swimming

 

Swimming is one of the few exercises that work every part of the body, but it does so in a way that is easy on the joints. If you are older, or if you have a medical condition or injury impacting your bones or muscles, swimming can be a great option.

Not only does swimming do good things for the body, being in the water is soothing for the mind. It can be like a balm that eases the mental anguish and stress that are often part of the addiction recovery process.

Take A Spin Class

 

If you prefer a fast-paced, high-intensity workout, spinning might be just the thing for you. Spinning is like aerobics on a bike and is usually done in a class format at a fitness centre. If group exercise is not your thing, you can spin on your own using a stationary bike at the gym or in your home. There are some great spinning apps that will guide you through the workout.

Spinning does not need a lot of skill, but it does require some degree of physical fitness. If you are new to spinning, there are some beginner workouts that will get you started. Many people find that the high-intensity nature of this exercise is a good way to release a build-up of stress, frustration or anger.

Learn To Dance

 

Dancing performs a dual purpose — it exercises the body, and it provides a creative means of self-expression. Since the beginning of time, cultures around the world have used dance to tell stories and impart messages. Many addiction rehab facilities incorporate dance in their treatment programs because it enables people to communicate their inner pain without having to talk.

Dancing is one of the few activities that can be suitable for anyone, regardless of age, creative taste and level of fitness. There are countless options for everyone from beginner to advanced, for those who want to dance by themselves, or in pairs or groups.

Do Some Yoga

You don’t have to work up a sweat in order to get exercise. Yoga provides you with a way to connect your body and mind while stretching and moving your body. There are many kinds of yoga, each with their own sets of benefits. This is an easy activity to take up, as options for all skill levels are increasingly easy to find.

Yoga is incorporated in many addiction treatment programs, often in conjunction with meditation. These are activities that can make you feel connected to yourself and to the world around you. Also, there are many benefits to physical and mental health, such as reduced stress and anxiety.

Join A Sports Team

Addiction can be very isolating, and recovery can be a lonely process. Sports teams provide a way to get exercise and be part of a group of people who are working towards a common goal. Even activities that are usually done alone can be done as part of a group: if soccer or basketball is not for you, look for a local running or hiking club.

Joining a sports team can be an important part of the post-rehab phase of addiction recovery. At a time when your life seems to revolve around avoiding relapse triggers and attending support group meetings, a sports team can give you a break. An opportunity to just enjoy participating in an activity.

Lift Some Weights

 

When done safely, weightlifting can provide numerous benefits to your physical health while burning away stress and negative emotions. You can do this activity in a fitness centre, or you can invest in some weights of your own, and do it at home. There are some apps and websites that can guide you through your workouts.

While weightlifting is one of the best exercises for addiction treatment and recovery, it is important to learn the proper techniques for lifting, to gain maximum benefit and avoid injury.

Final Words

Exercise is universally beneficial. No matter who you are and what your fitness level is, regular exercise has numerous benefits to the body and mind. Physical activity should not be regarded as something you do in addition to addiction rehab: it should be an integral part of your addiction treatment program. And when your rehab phase is over, the same exercises for addiction recovery can become a permanent part of your life. This will vastly improve your chances of lasting sobriety and positive, productive living.

Contact 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: Best Winter Home Exercises To Maintain Your Addiction Treatment

Categories
Addiction Treatment Tips

Helpful Addiction Treatment Tips for the Pandemic

The addiction treatment tips that will be helpful during the pandemic will vary from regular ones. Simply put, the times are different now and we should adapt appropriately. Due to the pandemic sweeping across the globe, feelings of anxiety and panic are in abundance. For regular people, this can be a stressful situation. However, if you are in addiction recovery, with poor management, this situation can lead to a relapse. 

60% of those in addiction recovery experience a relapse at one point or the other. With the threat of job loss, sickness and stricter social distancing measures, it easy to get overwhelmed. Additionally, the nature of this pandemic means that we have to socially distance ourselves from one another. For addicts who live alone, this may mean that there will be nobody to call 911 if it becomes necessary. This why you need effective and helpful addiction treatment tips that will help in surviving the pandemic. More importantly, to help you survive without a relapse.

To stay the path to complete addiction recovery in Toronto, you can take up a new hobby. For some people, the solution may be to articulate their feelings using words. Over the course of this blog, we will go into major details on how to stay sober even with the realities of a pandemic and addiction treatment. 

Related article: Should I Go To an Addiction Treatment Centre during the Pandemic

Stay Sober During the Coronavirus Pandemic

How To Stay Sober During the Coronavirus Pandemic

For most people, addiction treatment is an unknown field. However, we can help you. With the tips in this section, you can avoid unwanted social as well as mental complications. Here’s how to stay sober during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Have a system that you follow

Due to the coronavirus, a lot of people are without the structure they have become used to. For some, the everyday effort to get to work is absent. For others, they can’t get to the weekly support group meetings that help them stay sober. Top of the list of helpful tips for the COVID-19 pandemic is to create a routine for yourself.

Don’t just get out of bed whenever you feel like. Have a time-based routine that will cater to your physical, social and emotional well-being. Schedule wake-up times, breakfast times, work sessions etc. Doing this will help you stay in control, especially when it comes to cravings and negative thoughts.

Got to bed early

You may be wondering what sleep has to do with how to stay sober and focus on addiction treatment during a pandemic. The simple answer is that sleep is vital for your emotional and mental well-being. 

More importantly, addiction services near you recommend consistent bedtimes. 8 hours of sleep at around the same time every day can refresh you. With refreshing sleep comes a reduction in stress and feelings of anxiety. Regardless of the presence of a pandemic, that’s how you want to feel. 

Don’t leave your bed scattered

There’s a link between our immediate surroundings and mental balance. This is the reason making your bed is a helpful addiction treatment tip fit for a pandemic. Since you are spending more time at home every day, the chances are high that you’ll be seeing more of your bed. Sometimes, an unmade bed may be the last stressor that leads to addiction relapse.

Making your bed as soon as you wake up comes with psychological benefits that will boost your addiction treatment. It’s the foundation that offers a positive momentum for the rest of the day. You start out with a clean bed, next you’re humming your favourite tunes. Before you know it, you will end the day in the best of moods. Another day without any addiction treatment issues. A win!

The little things matter

The previous point is proof that the little things can hold the most powerful sway. Therefore, a helpful pandemic tip for those in addiction treatment is to pay attention to the smallest things. When everything starts to feel overwhelming, it’s a sign that you need to come back to the present.

Instead of worrying about where to find addiction services near you, this quick technique will help you stay in the present. Look around you and focus on:

  • 5 visual objects 
  • 4 objects you can touch 
  • 3 different sounds 
  • 2 unique scents around you 
  • 1 food or drink you can taste

As you check off each item on the list, you will start to calm down. If you are wondering how to stay sober during the pandemic, this helpful tip is great for refocusing thought patterns.

Spend time outside your house

At most, social distancing may mean you are not in close contact with people. However, it does not mean you should cage yourself indoors all day long. Even if you work from home, find time to take a walk or a run outdoors. This is top on our list of proven tips to help the addiction treatment process during a pandemic.

For those in addiction recovery, staying indoors all day can cause feelings of anxiety and stress. By letting yourself out, you are doing the same for your mind and mental energies. Even if you can’t run, walking can provide you with the movement you need. Additionally, you won’t be contravening any social distancing rules. Ease your mind today with a brisk walk.

Try journaling

Journaling can be a substitute for that all-important one-on-one session with your therapist. Since you may not have access to addiction services near you right now, you have to learn other ways to stay sober. Writing your feelings down is a coping mechanism and a helpful addiction treatment tip. 

It’s completely normal to have anxious, pesky feelings during this period. However, instead of letting them stress you, write them out and leave them in your journal. Writing 5 pages every day is not compulsory. Just reflect on your day and pour out both negative and positive feelings via words. At the end of the day, you may find that the positives far outweigh the negatives.

Try out meditation

If you are getting professional addiction treatment in Toronto, you may be familiar with the benefits of meditation. However, if you are new to this discipline, it’s a helpful practice that can combat uncertainty, anxiety and intense feelings of stress.

Usually, stress and anxiety can lead to addiction relapse. Meditation as a helpful addiction treatment tip allows you to change the way your mind works. Simply put, you can review negative thought patterns and make better decisions. Therefore, your mind will have the tools to avoid addiction relapse.

Meditation in addiction treatment

Stop using your phone

Not totally. However, you should limit the amount of information you consume via your phone. Although addiction treatment experts in Toronto recommend using social media to connect with loved ones, there’s a negative side to it. The type of information you take in through your phone can affect your mental and emotional balance.

Now is not the time to read about that dreadful COVID-19 related incidence. Nor is it the time to do life comparisons with old friends and exes using social media. As much as possible, only take in good vibes. Once you do this, you are one step to cracking how to stay sober in the middle of a pandemic.

Call 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: Tips For Maintaining Sobriety During Social Distancing

 

Categories
Addiction Treatment

Why You Need Professional Addiction Treatment

When substance addiction negatively impacts your life and those around you, it is time to seek professional treatment. The good news is addiction is treatable. However, if you want to have the best chances of kicking your addictive habits, you should secure professional addiction treatment in Canada. The manner of approach to addiction treatment and recovery can determine success. This is why expert addiction services near you are highly recommended. 

Professional addiction treatment facilities are the most effective treatment method for recovering from substance abuse disorders. Asides from giving you the best chances to successfully recover from your addictive habits, addiction services offer much more. Kicking drug-use habits can be very challenging with varying health impacts. Similarly, the process of addiction treatment and recovery differs from person to person. This and much more are why you need professional addiction treatment on your journey to recovery.

However, it is not enough to decide to secure the help of addiction services. Choosing the right one will significantly boost your chances of recovery. In this article, we will give you some insight into why you need professional addiction treatment. Furthermore, we will provide you with tips on how to pick the right addiction treatment facility in Canada. Keep reading to find out all you need to know about the benefits of professional addiction treatment.

Why You Need Professional Addiction Treatment 

Attempting an addiction recovery on your own can be very tasking, if not impossible. In fact, there are numerous advantages that professional addiction treatment has over stay-at-home DIY recovery. These benefits include:

You get medical services

You get medical services

When a person is trying to stop using drugs after a long period of addiction, it will often trigger withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms can sometimes be severe and life-threatening, depending on various factors. Therefore, you should kick drug habits in a place where you can access immediate medical attention. 

Professional addiction treatment centers in Canada have the resources to provide both initial stabilization and subsequent medical monitoring during recovery. This way, you will be as safe as possible during your treatment for addiction and your recovery.

Stable environment

The environment in which you attempt to detox and rehabilitate plays a critical role in your recovery process. You should be in a drug-free environment, away from places and people that can tempt you to use again. Additionally, being in this environment means you will be safe from people who can give you negative energy or discourage your addiction recovery efforts. 

This is especially necessary for newly recovering addicts as they are still in a fragile emotional state. Addiction services provide a safe and stable environment thereby increasing the chances of a successful recovery.

Learning

You may still be wondering why you need professional addiction treatment. Here is another point to help you on your way to choosing an addiction treatment service in Canada. The more you learn about something, the better equipped you are to handle it. 

Learning about addiction, how to overcome it, and more are some of the benefits you will enjoy in an addiction treatment center. This knowledge will help you realize that there is indeed a way to live a substance-free life. It is crucial that you learn the proper tools and equip yourself with this knowledge. That’s the way to stay on the path to total recovery.

Learning about addiction

Relapse Prevention

Addiction relapse is a significant concern among patients in recovery. According to statistics, about 60% of patients undergoing an addiction recovery will suffer a relapse at some point. A relapse can be particularly dangerous as it may lead to an overdose or other related medical problems. However, this is not to say relapse is not preventable. 

Essentially, here’s why you need professional addiction treatment. It puts you in a better position to avoid the possibility of a relapse. Addiction services have experts trained to notice the signs of impending relapse and avert it.

You get therapy and counseling

Addiction is a disease of the mind. Therefore, it may not be enough to focus only on stopping drug use. Your mental health is equally vital. Addiction treatment facilities in Canada offer more than just medical services and assistance. In addition, they carry out therapy sessions to help guide patients through the entire addiction treatment process. Furthermore, this therapeutic support will help to prepare your mind for the real world outside rehab. Having access to such services can mean the difference between a successful recovery and addiction relapse.

Peer group support

It is difficult for people who have not experienced drug addiction to understand how it feels. On the other hand, addiction treatment centers are filled with people who are going through a similar experience. Furthermore, every patient there has the same goal – to get help for their addiction. 

This means that you will have people you can relate to throughout your addiction recovery journey. 

Therefore, you will have the essential peer support that you need to get through recovery. Also, it can help to talk with people who are going through the same thing as you. This way, you can learn from their mistakes, give, and receive advice.

Aftercare

Our final point on why you need professional addiction treatment is this – aftercare. Aftercare refers to all the care you will receive after your treatment. That is, after you’ve left the treatment facility, you will be eligible for extra support from experts. 

Addiction services understand the need for treatment aftercare as it is critical in the transition to a clean and sober life. Whether you need a quick call when the going gets tough or medication, an addiction service near you can be of help.

Related article: Helpful Addiction Treatment Tips for the Pandemic

How to Choose a Professional Addiction Service

Now that you know why you need professional addiction treatment, the next step is to choose an excellent rehab facility. Selecting an addiction treatment center is a critical part of your recovery journey.  Not to worry, these tips will help you pick the best addiction treatment center in Canada.

  • Decide on your rehab goals and needs
  • Consult with an addiction treatment professional
  • Explore various addiction service options
  • Investigate their accreditation, licensing, and certifications
  • Find out if they have a multidisciplinary team, including psychologists and nutritionists
  • Find out the cost: Undoubtedly, you will have questions on how much addiction treatment costs. Although the cost may somewhat influence your decision, ensure that you do not trade it for quality of service. You can also explore insurance options to help you cater for the cost of addiction treatment.
  • Enroll and begin your addiction treatment and recovery journey.

In Conclusion

Your addiction treatment and recovery is too important to leave to chance. With the info above, we have been able to show you why you need professional addiction treatment. Addiction treatment services provide the best opportunity for you to build an excellent foundation for a life of recovery. Contact 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: How to Choose the Right Addiction Treatment Service

 

 

Categories
Opioid Addiction

6 Warning Signs of Opioid Addiction

Opioids are a type of medicine that are commonly used to help relieve pain. To do this, opioids alter the signals being sent between the body and the brain, thus relieving the intensity of the pain and discomfort felt. Opioids also have the ability to alter the way the brain responds to pain, and are commonly prescribed for individuals suffering from surgery, injuries, dental procedures and cancers.

There are a wide range of substances that are included in the opioid category. These substances include: Methadone, heroin, opium, fentanyl, morphine and oxycodone.

When used properly, opioids can be extremely helpful to relieving pain and getting people back on their feet. However, opioids can also become very addictive, and those who misuse their prescriptions can become dependent on them overtime.

Not everyone will recognize their dependency on an opioid, or they may refuse to come to terms with their addiction. Individuals who are unsure whether an opioid addiction is present might consider these 6 warning signs of opioid addiction to get a better idea of the seriousness of their situation:

Related article: 8 Myths about Opioid Addiction

  1. Avoiding Responsibilities

When an individual begins to develop a dependency to an opioid, they often start dedicating a lot of their personal time to getting high or locating more of the substance. When this starts to happen, other responsibilities that they used to value start to become less important, and less time is dedicated to activities they used to love.

This can be true of activities like favorite hobbies and sports, but may also be true of more important things like family responsibilities, work duties, pets and other important parts of life. These kinds of changes are some of the more obvious signs for close friends and family.

  1. Neglecting Friends/Family

An addiction can be a very private matter, and individuals who are suffering from one might try to keep the problem hidden from those closest to them. In order to do this successfully, a person might neglect their friends and family for days and weeks at a time, and begin lying to them about their whereabouts.

  1. Lack of Personal Hygiene

When an individual is focused on getting their next fix, things like personal hygiene are of little importance. Friends and family may notice that a person begins to wear the same clothing, or dirty garments, and that they aren’t showering and tending to their outward appearance as much as they used to.

Onlookers may even notice that the individual has unusually bad breath, smelly clothing and bad body odor.

  1. Psychological Changes

Many of the drugs categorized under opioids tend to give users feelings of euphoria and energy, and as the drug wears off they begin to “crash”. Onlookers might notice these psychological changes when a person begins in a positive and elated mood, and then immediately begins to demonstrate lethargy, abrupt mood swings and paranoia.

Of the 6 signs of opioid addiction, these outward changes in mood are some of the most obvious that chemical imbalances are at play.

  1. Change in Circle of Friends

A user who has dedicated a lot of their time to using will often experience a loss of friends and partners, who do not understand their new habit. Simultaneously, they may begin to hang around a new group of friends who demonstrate similar addiction behaviors and physical attributes.

  1. Depending on Opioids to Function

If an individual can no longer function properly without the use of an opioid, then dependency has taken over. This is a sure sign of an addiction, as the body now believes that it cannot perform regular tasks without having the sensation of being ‘high’.

Those who feel a loved one may be addicted to opioids may want to keep an eye out for these 6 warning signs of opioid addiction. While the effects differ between users, physical and behavioral changes will become more obvious as the addiction worsens. Contact 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

 

Related article: What to Expect During Opioid Withdrawal

 

Categories
Drug Rehab

Why Drug Rehab Treatment Should Always Address Mental Health

At least one in every five Canadians experiences a mental illness or a substance abuse every single year. Look around and think that it could be a friend, a co-worker, the person bagging groceries at the local shop or the one who just walked pass on the street. For most of the times it’s virtually impossible to realize or better yet, understand the complexity of the struggles many are battling inside.

People who are already struggling with mental health problems are twice more likely to develop a drug addiction and over 20% are already there. What’s even more devastating is that a significant number are of young age and the associated stigma makes it even more difficult for them to voice their concerns and seek appropriate help.

Imagine that in Canada, about 90 % of the private rehab centres are 12-step based, about 4% are religious based and 2% bootcamp or behavioural modification based, which leaves little room for drug treatment clinics that offer full mental health support for their clients. On the other hand, many of the programs that are available have the capacity to only address relatively mild forms of mental illnesses, particularly those related to mood or anxiety, and not the more severe ones. It cannot be stressed enough how dangerous this is and the long-term effects it inflicts to people dealing with a co-occurring substance abuse making them more susceptible to relapse. However, integrated treatment that looks at individuals as a whole and works to address the full spectrum of symptoms and disorders has been shown to lower these risks. According to one study, in clients living with moderate-to-severe dual diagnosis disorders when the drug abuse treatment was paired with targeted mental health care, the outcomes have seen major improvements.

Related article: The Connection Between Substance Abuse And Mental Health

On the other hand, people who have a genetic predisposition to mental health problems and who abuse certain drugs are increasing their risk of developing such a disorder. For instance, a person with a family history of schizophrenia who also heavily abuses marijuana will significantly increase the risk of triggering psychotic symptoms. In the context of Canada’s recent green light to legalizing the drug, many curious children and adolescents are exposed to a risk they might not even be aware of.

The solution is a treatment approach known as dual diagnosis which, as the name suggests, looks at both mental health illnesses and the substance abuse. Dual diagnosis is built to taken into consideration the various different symptoms and the treatment resistance that may occur more severely than in people who deal with either one or the other. The rehabilitation plan is carefully put together by a highly specialized professional who is able to carry out thorough physical examination and psychological assessments. The treatment is then individualized to include a safe detox step, counselling and therapy as well as self-help and post-treatment management.

Only half of Canadians would be willing to discuss a mental illness problem with their friends or acquaintances, compared to 72% willing to talk about a cancer diagnosis. Call 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: Drug Abuse and Addictions: Warning Signs To Look Out For

Categories
Marijuana Addiction

Clearing the Smoke on Marijuana: Is It Harmless After All?

Marijuana use has split people into two camps: those firmly against it and all of its uses, including medical ones and those who are backing up its potential and harmlessness for both therapeutic reasons as well as recreational ones. This situation is particularly more alive than ever in North America. The use of cannabis as a medical treatment has been legal since 2001, while the sale, possession, and use of recreational cannabis will be legalized as of October 17, 2018.

Even before that, Canada ranked at the very top of countries with highest rates of cannabis use in the world. While a spliff won’t automatically push someone into addiction, people can become addicted easily with continued, frequent and heavy use. There is a huge knowledge gap here, especially among Canadian teenagers who view marijuana as a harmless herb and as they put it, helps them to be more relax, focus and drive better, be less violent and think more creatively. What they are not aware of is that using marijuana at such an early age when the brain is still developing can lead to cognitive impairment and paired up with mental issues predisposition is nothing short than a recipe for disaster.

It is true that regardless of age however, some people are more likely to becoming addicted than their peers. Numbers estimate thatone in three individuals who use cannabis will develop a substance problem. If a person uses the drug on a daily basis, the risk skyrockets to up to 50%. In reality, using cannabis can cause quite the opposite effects than what many believe: it compromises concentration and motor skills as well as the ability to think and make decisions rationally. It has also been shown to induce anxiety, panic attacks and paranoia.

Related article: Addiction Treatment for Marijuana: Why You Need to Stop Smoking

As with all drugs, no one can guarantee the effects considering they very much depend on personal circumstances. With cannabis it will depend on the amount used, the time and frequency of use, the method of taking the drug (smoked, vaped, eaten), the person’s mood, expectations and environment, pre-existing conditions and genetic factors and if it is being taken alongside alcohol or other drugs. All of these factors will also have an impact on how long the effects will last and their intensity.

The good news is that the risk of addiction is lower than the ones for alcohol or opioids for example and an overdose cannot be fatal. Nevertheless, this does not eliminate the risks it poses to a person’s health and well-being. Cognitive behavioural therapy is the most popular treatment program for marijuana rehab. The therapy works by educating the recovering user of healthy and effective ways to perceive their lives and their addiction while also offering the necessary coping mechanisms and alternatives to avoid continued use. Contact 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: The Amazing Benefits of Quitting Marijuana

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Addiction Treatment Tips

Traveling for Addiction Treatment Improves Long-Term Recovery

When an individual has made the decision to visit a rehabilitation centre for their addiction, a few questions might come to mind first including, “Where should I go?”, “Should I stay near home?” and “Would I benefit from going away?”

Oftentimes users will assume that it makes the most sense to get help in their own town. The travel time is shorter; they can still see their friends/family and they won’t have to miss school or work. However, convenience or fear isn’t always the best solution for someone fighting a drug dependency.

In fact, traveling away from home might be exactly what a user needs. If you or someone you know is deciding on a treatment center for their drug abuse, the following are some of the benefits of traveling for addiction treatment.

Related article: How To Help A Loved One In Recovery

Specialized Treatment

Not every treatment center is capable of offering all of the same tools and programs, which means some centers aren’t able to provide the specific solutions a user needs. In these cases, users will only be getting part of the treatment that would be best for them.

A drug addict who considers all of their options- including those that are far away- will be much more likely to find a center that provides exactly what they need to quit.

Away from Temptation

 It is a lot easier to fall back into old habits when you’re in a familiar place. Users who stay close to home will often be exposed to the same triggers that made them start using in the first place, including specific places, situations and groups of people.

Traveling somewhere new can expose users to the feeling of a fresh start, in a place where they’ve never been and with people they’ve never met. The experience can inspire them to stay on the right track, since this new location is a constant reminder of the decision they’ve made and how far they’ve come.

Privacy

Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of people knowing about their addiction troubles. One of the benefits of traveling for addiction treatment, is that users can travel out of their town where everyone knows everything about everyone.

Instead of a user worrying about what everyone is thinking and adding to their stress, traveling away from home can help them to focus on the task at hand in a comfortable environment.

New Relationships

The opportunities for meeting new people in a new place are endless, and users will have no trouble finding people who share the same kinds of interests, personalities and future goals.

These kinds of relationships are critical for users once they’ve left treatment. Users can stay in contact with new friends online, or agree to meet a couple times a year to update each other on their progress. Users who are now drug-free might also be able to help one another to get past potential relapses, and to remind each other of everything they’ve overcome.

The benefits of traveling for addiction treatment are plenty, but there are also benefits to staying close to home. The individual admitting themselves will ultimately make the decision that suits them best, but it can be helpful to list out the pros and cons of each before choosing.

Contact 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: 8 Exercises That Can Help With Addiction Recovery

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Smoking Weed

How to Stop Smoking Weed

Marijuana is the most popularly used illegal drug in Canada, and Canadian youth possess some of the highest user numbers (28%) compared to other developed countries. It has been reported that the chronic use of marijuana can have dangerous effects within the body, affecting both the physical and mental aspects of the body and impeding brain function.

Users who want to know how to stop smoking weed are in luck, since there are many approaches to reducing dependency. A combination of efforts may be necessary to quit the habit for good, so if one approach doesn’t help, be sure to try a few other methods or blending a few of them.

How to Stop Smoking Weed

Recognition

As it is commonly said, admitting you have a problem is the first step in fixing the problem. Many people cannot seem to quit marijuana because they don’t believe they’ve lost control. However, if you begin to feel lost without your latest fix, or you become anxious when your sources dwindle, there is a good chance that weed has started taking hold of your daily life.

You can stop smoking weed by first admitting that you cannot function with the drug, and that you want to begin taking your life back. Be wary that quitting any kind of addiction is never easy, but if you’re prepared to do what it takes then you’ll be on the fast-track to newfound independence.

Related article: How to Quit Weed: These Unbelievable Addiction Treatment Tips Will Help

Give Yourself a Date

It is ideal to set some goals if you want to stop smoking weed; otherwise, it becomes incredibly easy to put off the day you should be smoke-free. Try to pick a date that is realistic for you—if you can quit by the end of the month, then write that goal down and make sure you see it every day.

If a month is too fast, don’t push yourself. By not giving yourself enough time, you increase your chances of relapsing.

Focus on your date, and slowly begin to wean yourself off of the usual amount of weed that you smoke. As the days go on, you should be using less and less until your last day requires no weed at all. This will take some organization; try to put up a visual calendar that reminds you of what you’re working towards.

Find New Hobbies

When you’re figuring out how to stop smoking weed, you’re probably going to be thinking about it a lot. As your weaning off of weed, try finding other hobbies that can take up your time such as painting, bowling with friends or rock climbing.

You might become pleasantly surprised at how much you enjoy these new pastimes, and you may even begin to see friends and family more often.

Quitting Cold Turkey

If you’re going to stop smoking weed the day you decide to quit, your road may be a little tougher. The first thing you’ll need to do is throw everything out, including the weed you have left and every accessory you use with it. This includes the contact information for your dealer.

Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, irritability and mood swings. Keep your support system in the know about what you’re doing, so they can support your progress and keep you away from temptations. Call 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: Addiction Treatment for Marijuana: Why You Need to Stop Smoking

 

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Prescription Drugs Addiction

Prescription Painkiller

Canada is currently ranked 2nd for the world’s biggest consumers of pharmaceutical opioids. Despite the fact that the country is experiencing some of its worst numbers for opioid abuse and overdoses, the number of painkiller prescriptions continue to increase.

Ironically, another number that continues to increase is the number of therapies meant to treat dependency.

Prescription painkiller addiction in Canada is on the rise, and it’s not really a surprise—there were approximately 19 million prescriptions dispensed to Canadians in the year 2016. This number has increased from the year prior, when nearly 18.9 prescriptions were handed out.

Even as the country continues to struggle with addiction, painkiller prescriptions have climbed 6% in the last 5 years.

What is the problem?

Prescription painkiller use in Canada can be blamed by over prescribing, with far too many doctors abusing their powers. Patients continue to be sent away with more orders for painkillers, opening up brand new opportunities for painkiller abuse and addiction with each new client.

An increased number of deaths have occurred in the last few years, a result of both accessibility to these painkillers, as well as the introduction of the opioid known as fentanyl.

Although the provinces are more than aware of the growing issue, all provinces have failed to make changes to their prescription requirements. Not only are doctors sending away clients with unnecessary prescriptions, but they’re also helping the drug market to thrive.

Drugs such as Oxycodone and fentanyl are booming markets, both legally and illegally. Attempts to try and educate doctors on the dangers of overprescribing are falling on deaf ears; the easy solution is far too attractive than the alternatives.

Related article: Tips to Help You Prevent a Prescription Drug Addiction

Opioid Epidemic

Patients who were being treated with drugs for opioid addiction have grown exponentially in the last few years. In 2013, more than 40,000 Ontario citizens were prescribed drugs for their addiction. By 2016, the number had reached almost 60,000.

As doctors continue to carelessly prescribe these addictive drugs, more and more clients are becoming dependent on them. Instead of going to their doctor for more inventory, clients turn to the illegal drug trade to get fixes that are cheaper. As time goes on, clients require larger doses to maintain their high, which only helps to improve the success of the illegal drug trade further.

In an effort to reduce prescription painkiller use in Canada, the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated their guidelines in 2016. The goal of the updated version was to educate doctors about the epidemic, and to urge them to consider drug-free methods for their clients before they turned to painkillers.

For some doctors who are newer to the profession, their struggle is with clients who have already been using prescription painkillers by means of their retired physicians. To counteract these clients, doctors are encouraged to avoid this tactic with new clients.

More than 2,800 Canadians died from prescription painkillers and fentanyl overdoses in 2016; that’s an average of eight deaths per day. British Columbia suffered the highest number of opioid-related deaths in 2016, while Ontario suffered the highest number of opioid-related hospitalizations.

Prescription painkiller use in Canada is a very serious problem; for those clients who have the option to obtain prescription painkillers, it is suggested that they request other options for treatment whenever possible. Contact 1000 Islands Addiction Rehab & Treatment Centre for addiction treatment programs.

Related article: Why do People Get Addicted to Prescription Drugs