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Joining a treatment program is a major step to recovery for your loved one. It can motivate your family member or friend to overcome substance use disorder (SUD), which can harm his or her personal life and your family life.
Licensed therapists in a rehabilitation center can guide someone close to you in his or her journey to healing. Nevertheless, your practical and emotional support is also essential to the patient’s recuperation as he or she tries to overcome dependence on drugs or alcohol.
Continue reading to discover how you can help your loved one who is undergoing treatment at a rehab facility.
Self-education is the key to understanding what your friend or relative is going through. Increase your knowledge of the various aspects of SUD. Find out how dependence on alcohol or drugs can affect the physical and mental health of the patient.
Learn about the withdrawal symptoms that your loved one may potentially experience. After all, proper withdrawal management is vital as he or she attempts to minimize his or her intake of the substance under professional supervision. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes withdrawal management as the medical and psychological care of patients who are suffering from withdrawal symptoms.
Your family member will likely undergo behavioral therapy which is facilitated by a licensed counselor. While the patient will attend individual therapy sessions, he or she also has the option to undergo family therapy. Your full cooperation and active participation are vital to the success of family therapy.
According to The Family Journal, family therapy has the potential to boost family resilience, enhance the family structure, and establish strong relationships. It has the potential to improve the family-solving skills and coping skills of the patient.
There are practical ways to express your support to your loved one as he or she goes through the different stages of the treatment program. Visit your buddy or relative during the appropriate visiting hours if he or she is temporarily residing at the rehab center for the duration of the treatment. Volunteer to run errands, perform household chores, or take care of pets in case he or she is an inpatient.
Drive your friend or family member to the facility for sessions if he or she is an outpatient. Treat the patient to dinner or to a movie to celebrate milestones in the healing process.
Take active steps to show your loved one that he or she is not alone in the recovery journey. Provide your relative or buddy with assistance and encouragement while he or she is undergoing treatment.
If the person close to you is still looking for a treatment program, reach out to NorthStar Detox & Rehab Center in Tarzana, Los Angeles. Our licensed therapists and expert staff can provide professional guidance to your family member or friend as they seek freedom from drug or alcohol dependence. Contact us today so your loved one can get started on the road to recovery.
It's never easy to decide to detox from alcohol. But there are some things you should know before you give up drinking for good. Not only will your body be healthier, but your mind will also be clearer and sharper than it has ever been before. Find out what to expect after alcohol detox-from withdrawal symptoms to how long they can last, to what to do during them!
The first few days after alcohol detox are always the hardest. This is when you will experience the most severe withdrawal symptoms. You may feel like you can't cope, but remember that these feelings are only temporary. With time, they will pass.
In general, withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. However, they may persist for longer in some cases. If you are experiencing particularly severe symptoms, it is essential to seek medical help.
The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can vary from person to person. However, there are a few that are common to most people. These include:
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to drink plenty of fluids and eat regular, balanced meals. This will help your body to cope with the withdrawal process. You may also find that taking over-the-counter painkillers and anti-nausea medication that is FDA-Approved strongly recommended by (NIAAA) National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
One of the biggest challenges after alcohol detox is dealing with cravings. These can be incredibly strong and can often lead to relapse.
It's important to remember that cravings are only temporary. They will eventually pass. In the meantime, try to distract yourself from them as much as possible. This may include activities like exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time with friends and family.
If you experience a craving, try to think about why you are experiencing it. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or lonely? Once you have identified the cause, try to address it. This may include techniques like relaxation exercises, journaling, or talking to a therapist.
After detoxing from alcohol, it's normal to feel moody and irritable. This is because your body is adjusting to being sober. You may find that you are more sensitive to stress, and those small things can easily upset you.
Try to avoid situations that are likely to cause stress. Make time for relaxation exercises and calming activities like yoga, reading, or listening to music. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a friend or family member about how you're feeling. It can be helpful to have someone to talk to who understands what you're going through.
It's common to have problems sleeping after alcohol detox. You may wake up several times during the night or not feel tired enough to go to bed. It's essential to get as much sleep as possible during this time. If you are experiencing insomnia, use your relaxation techniques before bedtime, turn off all electronic devices an hour before you go to bed, and avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening.
If you are restless during sleep, try to get up and move around every few hours. This will help your body to relax and get deeper sleep. You may also want to try meditation or relaxation exercises before bedtime.
After alcohol detox, your skin may be dry, sensitive, and prone to breakouts. This is because alcohol is a diuretic, which can dehydrate your skin. It's essential to drink plenty of fluids and keep your skin hydrated. You may want to try using a moisturizer or cream specifically designed for sensitive skin.
If you are experiencing breakouts, avoid using any harsh or abrasive skin products. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid touching your face unnecessarily. If you need to use an acne treatment, make sure it is light and non-inflammatory.
It's common to struggle with concentration and memory after alcohol detox. This is because alcohol can interfere with the function of your brain. It's important to give yourself time to heal and allow your brain to restore its normal function.
In the meantime, try to take things one step at a time. Break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Write down important information, so you don't have to remember it. If you need help concentrating, try using a study aid like a flashcard or mind map.
Detoxing from alcohol can be difficult, but it is essential to recovery. Remember that cravings are temporary, moodiness and irritability will pass, you may experience insomnia or restless sleep patterns, your skin will become dry and sensitive, you'll have trouble concentrating, and your overall memory might be impaired.
However, you can overcome all of these symptoms. Relaxation techniques, a healthy diet rich in omega-3s and vitamin B6, daily exercise, spending time with friends and family, and getting plenty of sleep will help you feel better. And if your mood worsens or you start experiencing suicidal thoughts after alcohol detox, seek professional help right away.
It is possible to recover from alcohol addiction. If you are ready to take the first step towards sobriety, call NorthStar Detox & Rehab Center in Tarzana, CA. We can help connect you with a treatment program that's right for your unique needs. Our hotline is open Mondays to Sundays 8 AM - 6 PM, or fill up our contact form here.
Many people practice yoga to boost their strength, flexibility, and metabolism. However, unknown to many, it is also an effective addiction treatment. There are no one-size-fits-all cures for addiction, but yoga has become one of the most common recovery methods today.
The latest addiction statistics reveal that around 20 million Americans abused a substance in the past year. While there are many treatment types for such conditions, practicing yoga can enhance any of them. Read on to discover how this discipline can help transform a struggling addict’s life.
According to American Addiction Centers, common alcohol and drug withdrawal include various symptoms, from vomiting to insomnia to anxiety. Individuals in the initial phase of their recovery often experience a lot of pain and discomfort.
Integrating yoga with any addiction treatment can help address some of these concerns by making patients stronger. The stretching and breathing exercises can help them improve their appetite, alleviate pains, and sleep better.
Fighting addiction is as much a mental and emotional battle as it is a physical one. Many people with addiction problems feel massive amounts of guilt, shame, worry, resentment, and loneliness.
Yoga’s flowing motions and breathing exercises help calm nerves and reduce cravings. A recent brain study proves that yoga increases the volume of the hippocampus — a region of the brain that plays a crucial role in controlling stress. The more people practice yoga, the more they can enjoy its tranquilizing benefits.
Self-control is one of the core components in any addiction center program. Maintaining control of their lives is one essential factor that many recovery hopefuls overlook. There’s no shortcut to mastering this ability except for practice and persistence, which yoga can do.
Yoga is an excellent exercise that helps recovering addicts take back control of their lives and fight compulsive cravings. This discipline takes some getting used to, but the benefits are worth the wait.
Initially, people become attracted to the substances because of the euphoric high they provide. Also, they can help users enhance social interactions, escape unpleasant circumstances, or fit in. However, in most cases, chasing highs leads to different results.
For this reason, it’s best to try a natural method of achieving elevated consciousness as one would with harmful substances. Post-yoga high is a legitimate experience where the blood vessels feel relaxed while boosting blood flow to the heart, making people feel like they’re on top of the world. It’s this natural high that keeps many practitioners wanting more.
Yoga is one of the most convenient practices recovering addicts can perform anytime, anywhere. Combining yoga with whatever addiction treatment you have can help you create a clear path toward recovery.
For more information about our addiction center’s high-quality, evidence-based recovery programs, fill out an inquiry form here. We will gladly discuss your options.
Owned & operated by a licensed Medical Doctor, we've established strict protocols to ensure a safe & supportive environment for our clients during the COVID-19 pandemic with no cases reported to date. If you or someone you love is considering inpatient treatment contact us today.
Participation in a rehab program is a necessity for people who are determined to overcome drug addiction. However, the pandemic has added a new layer of complexity to searching for the right place to seek treatment for substance use disorder.
If you or someone you love has second thoughts about checking into an inpatient rehab center due to a fear of contracting COVID-19 you are not alone. Thankfully, it is possible to find a safe place where there are minimal health risks due to strict guidelines and protocols created by the City of Los Angeles in accordance with the CDC.
In addition to a detailed preparedness checklist provided by the CDC, inpatient centers like NorthStar follow additional safety measures to operate effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic. For those interested, the State of CA maintains a database of COVID-19 cases reported in Behavioral Health Facilities.
Continue reading to discover what safety measures a rehabilitation clinic should conduct if you or your loved one are planning to get drug addiction treatment while the pandemic is still ongoing.
The bad news: COVID-19 spreads when persons are exposed to the droplets of infected fluids that are coughed or exhaled by individuals who are infected with the virus. The good news: Inpatient rehab centers like NorthStar Detox & Rehab have to follow strict safety measures in preventing the spreading of COVID-19.
A rehab clinic may be considered as a safe place to undergo treatment for substance use disorder if they follow these health precautions:
Most rehab centers require their staff members to get fully vaccinated with authorized COVID-19 vaccines. They also encourage their patients to undergo vaccination unless their physician does not recommend it because of their age or health condition.
What's more, rehab centers must regularly check the temperatures of staff and patients - At NorthStar, we perform these checks daily and we also provide quick & easy access to vaccinations.
A rehab clinic must promote the regular washing of hands by employees and patients alike. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people wash their hands using soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds. It also suggests the use of hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if water and soap are not accessible.
A rehab clinic should develop a response plan just in case a patient or employee suddenly shows symptoms of COVID-19. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises that the establishment should set aside a room or area where an individual who is not feeling well can be isolated in safety and comfort. The center should also plan on how to transfer sick persons to a healthcare facility.
Don’t let the pandemic stop you or your loved one from joining a rehab program. NorthStar Detox and Rehab is a safe place where you can experience effective treatment for substance abuse disorder even during the pandemic.
Contact us to find out how you can start your recovery journey by seeking drug addiction treatment in Tarzana at our inpatient rehab center.
Co-occurring disorders are doubly challenging compared to single disorders. Individuals who are struggling with substance use disorders are susceptible to developing other forms of psychiatric disorders. Patients with co-existing disorders usually require longer periods of treatment than people with single disorders.
Find out what a co-occurring disorder is. Learn what its common symptoms are. Discover how addiction treatment at the right rehab center can help patients recover from dual diagnoses.
A co-occurring disorder describes a mental health issue and substance use disorder that coexist with each other. It is also popularly known as dual diagnosis or dual disorder. It typically describes a fusion of substance use and mental disorders. However, it may also be used as a term for other co-existing disorders like mental illness and intellectual disability.
These are some of the common mental disorders that co-occur with substance use disorder, based on youth.gov and Psychology Today resources:
Here are the substances that patients with mental disorders often misuse:
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates that there were 9.2 million adults in the U.S. with co-occurring disorders as of 2018. Coexisting substance use disorders and mental disorders usually vary in terms of effects, extremity, and treatment time.
The exact symptoms of a co-occurring disorder are based on the specific combination of substance use disorder and mental health issues that a patient has. In general, individuals with dual diagnosis are vulnerable to experiencing the following additional issues:
Once a person stops or lowers the intake of a substance, the patient may encounter withdrawal symptoms that are related to the type of substance he or she is dependent on.
A holistic treatment approach is recommended for patients with dual diagnoses. This integrated form of treatment involves the coordination of substance abuse and mental health interventions, instead of treating the individual disorders separately.
Holistic treatments usually include a mix of the following:
The holistic treatment should be customized to the particular needs of each patient.
Co-occurring disorders affect all the aspects of the life of a patient. That’s why holistic treatment at the right facility is necessary to effectively treat dual diagnosis.
NorthStar Detox & Rehab Center in Tarzana, Los Angeles is the ideal choice for patients who wish to achieve successful recovery and continued sobriety. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us in case you or your loved one need our integrated, comprehensive addiction treatment.
Contact us to discover how our expert team can provide you with the high-quality medical care and supportive environment you need to overcome co-occurring disorders.
“It takes a village.” Since a book with this phrase was published several years ago it has become a popular phrase.
One of the common interpretations of the phrase is that for most human beings, if not all of us, it ideally takes many people who care about us and our well-being to take a collective hand in supporting and guiding us through life’s trials and tribulations.
At Northstar, it is our passionate and fervent belief that program patients can reap invaluable benefits from the involvement of family and friends in their treatment program.
In our progressive and changing society, we embrace an inclusive definition of family. Some patients may not have the good fortune of having family members who are willing and able to participate in family therapy and therapeutic milieu visits. And that is ok. At our residential addiction treatment in Tarzana, we work with the patient to identify significant friends in their life who are available to attend sessions and provide the love and caring essential for successful rehabilitation.
Once the patient is discharged from Northstar and if indicated complete a sober living program, they are on their own in maintaining their sobriety. Yes, they will have psychotherapy, Recovery groups, and fellowship with others in Recovery. And they will need relationships with friends and family who have learned enough about recovery theory and practice to reinforce the patient’s substance-free lifestyle.
The staff at Northstar understand and appreciate that sometimes the patients’ friends and family members initially are reluctant to participate in family and visitation activities. There can be shame, anger, confusion, and embarrassment in regards to the patient’s addiction. It is normal and natural to have these thoughts and feelings.
At Northstar we are sensitive and understanding about these reactions and we are skillful in our ability to foster new heart-felt understanding and emotional connection between the patient and family members/friends. The patient is asked to dedicate themselves to a healthy transformation. Not only do they benefit from our treatment program but there are critical benefits for their loved ones too.
Here at NorthStar Detox & Rehab Center, we treat various forms of addictions, including alcohol addiction, drug addiction, together with opioid, cocaine, meth addiction, and more.
If you would like more information about our addiction treatment options, do not hesitate to contact us!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
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