Drug Detox
Alcoholism is a severe condition that affects approximately 14 million people across the United States. Although social or occasional drinking is normal and not necessarily cause for concern, excessive drinking can lead to addiction, dependence, and severe damage to both the physical body and the mind. When talking about alcoholism, it’s essential to recognize that each person will have a different experience with the disease.
Although there are many different versions of alcoholism one could experience, there are five general subcategories that most people find themselves in. Understanding the demographics and characteristics of each of these subtypes will help those suffering from addiction understand their relationship with the disease and enable them to overcome it.
The scientists at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, also known as (NIAAA) surveyed that about 43, 093 individuals were screened for alcohol dependence as well as a wide range of various other factors. Of that same population, about 1,484 met about three of the criteria from the DSM-IV for alcohol dependence, at least in the past year. The researchers projected that it represented roughly 8 million American adults in the general population.
Among these people were the following:
- 49% never married
- 71% were white
- 68% were male
There are a variety of different reasons that can prompt a person to drink until they have reached the point where they are alcohol dependent. About 2,136 American adults either had the desire to stop drinking alcohol or already attempted to quit whether it was successful or not.
Among the individuals surveyed:
- 43.5% of the individuals used alcohol to cope with mental health symptoms like depression or anxiety
- 17.8% of the people used alcohol as a part of their daily routine. For example, they had a drink with dinner
- 64.9% of the individuals used alcohol to cope with stress such as unwinding, relaxing, or dealing with life
- 16.6% of the people reported being physically dependent on alcohol
- 61.9% of the individuals used alcohol socially or recreationally
- 38.1% of the people used alcohol out of boredom
What Is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism is a serious form of addiction characterized by frequent periods of heavy drinking. Alcoholics are dependent on alcohol for their emotional 2and physical functioning. Alcoholism is not just drinking a little too much with friends on the weekend by accident.
It is understood by intense urges or desires to drink and frequently suffering from withdrawal symptoms if they don’t. People with alcoholism will place drinking at the top of their obligations, oftentimes putting it before friends, family, work, and hobbies. Alcoholism is a disease, and those who suffer from it feel as though they have no choice but to keep drinking.
The urges are so intense it can feel like you physically need them to survive. Many times, alcoholism lays dormant for some time, and what feels like occasional drinking suddenly becomes a daily necessity. Once someone suffers from alcoholism, they will need professional treatment and long-term care to regain and maintain sobriety.
Who Is at Risk for Alcoholism?
Anybody who drinks is at risk for developing alcoholism, but some factors could make someone especially prone to developing this disease. Family history, high-stress levels, childhood trauma, addictive personalities, peer pressure, low income, and mental health conditions can all lead to an increased risk of alcohol abuse. If you or a loved one experiences any of these things, it’s essential to make sure your drinking habits don’t get out of line. Otherwise, it’s possible to find yourself as one of the different types of alcoholics or types of drinkers.
What Are the Behavioral Signs of Alcoholism?
There are various behavioral signs of an alcohol use disorder or alcoholism that will generally be apparent, according to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. Individuals who undergo alcohol abuse might start to become increasingly secretive regarding their activities because they might not want to hear others’ concerns about it or hear advice to stop engaging in their drug of choice. It’s also possible that the individual might drink in secret, either out in public but away, or in a private place to avoid concerned friends and family.
As a result of drinking, individuals might become more prone to accidents and even start showing signs of injury, which they might attempt to cover up. A person who is experiencing an alcohol use disorder, or AUD, might also attempt to hide alcohol around the house or at work. An individual might become fearful of running out of alcohol, in turn, this means a ready supply will always be nearby.
Alcohol abuse can lead individuals into showing a reduced level of care for their physical appearance and hygiene. As alcohol abuse progresses in a person’s life, they may increasingly look like they haven’t been showering, stopped shaving, and no longer are washing up or even changing their clothes. Alcohol abuse can also lead to various relationship matters across the spectrum.
An individual who has a more calm effect when sober might shift into depression, irritability, and moodiness when they are intoxicated. The additional behavioral signs of alcoholism include:
- Uncharisterically taking loans, depleting cash accounts, and liquidating any assets
- Increasing legal troubles, such as domestic abuse, drunk driving, or assault
- Overreacting to any perceived criticism that was leveled against the drinking
- Yo-yoing: drinking and then stopping in a repeated pattern over time
- Showing up intoxicated at work, a meeting, or a family function
- Engaging in risky activities, such as unprotected sex
- Experiencing increasing financial problems
- Stealing and likely lying about it
What Are Some Potential Dangers of Addiction?
Many potential dangers of addiction can present themselves in the different types of alcoholics or types of drinkers. Addiction can trigger psychosis, depression, anxiety, and greatly increase the overall risk of suicidal ideation. It can also deeply impair individuals surrounding the person. Therefore destroying finances and relationships. Furthermore, pushing individuals closer to crime and illicit activity.
Understanding the Subcategories of Alcoholics
It can be challenging to put individuals into just five subgroups of alcoholics considering there are so many factors that play into the relationship someone has with the substance. Most people have a stereotypical understanding of what an alcoholic would look like, but in reality, there is no “one” type. Giving in to the stereotype makes other people invisible to the epidemic.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, along with other national groups dedicated to alcohol research, has concluded that there are five general subcategories of alcoholics. The point of identifying these subcategories is to characterize the different possible types of alcoholics to understand how many kinds of people come to develop this sort of addiction. It also enables us to recognize signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse in friends or loved ones that don’t match the typical “alcoholic” profile.
By understanding how it started, you can better understand the path to ending it. The following are the five most common subtypes of alcoholics.
Young Adult
The young adult subtype makes up about 30% percent of all alcoholics and is characterized by those between the ages of 18 and 24. For this subtype, drinking usually begins at an early age (13-18), and alcohol dependence usually follows soon after (18-24).
For the young adult alcoholic, many times, their alcoholism is ignored and pushed aside as being “just a phase.” It’s common for young adults to party and experiment with different substances and is even considered “cool” for them to drink in large quantities. This type of alcohol is typically a binge drinker, maintains a job/education/ normal family life, and is harder to diagnose than some of the other subtypes.
This subtype poses a more significant threat for being ignored and therefore is likely not to seek treatment and end up with long-term alcoholism and deeply rooted addiction. Although co-occurring mental health conditions are low for this subtype, they can develop over time and progress into another subset of alcoholics.
Young Anti-Social Type
This subtype makes up about 22 percent of all alcoholics and is typically composed of people in their mid-young twenties. People in this subgroup suffer from co-occurring alcoholism and anti-social personality disorder. Most individuals in this subtype began drinking in their early teens and have a strong family history of addiction.
Many in this group also suffered from trauma or abuse in their childhood. Almost 75% of this group is male, and only one-third have received a formal education. This group has the lowest annual income and the highest unemployment rate.
Since this group has a strong presence of co-occurring addictions and mental health problems, it’s common for them to have issues with law enforcement officials or trouble at their job. Treatment is often sought by the young anti-social type, whether willingly or through family interventions. Treatment for young anti-social type consists of both detox, alcoholic rehabilitation, and mental health counseling.
Functional Subtype
This subtype makes up about 19% of all alcoholics and goes along with the common saying “functional alcoholic” and is one of the more recognized groups of alcoholics. The basic understanding of this subtype is that although they have an addiction to alcohol and drink more than the recommended amount, people in this subgroup can maintain regular routines and lifestyles.
More than half of this subtype kept a full-time job and received an education. Only one-third has a family member with alcoholic tendencies. This group tends to be of middle age but can include some young adults as well.
They commonly suffer from co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression but not to the extent of requiring professional help or medication. Since this subtype does not often get “drunk” but just maintains an even level of alcohol in the body, they are very rarely involved with legal issues, family issues, or professional issues due to their drinking (hence the phrase “functional alcoholic”). This subtype occasionally received professional treatment with about 17% on average, but more often than not, will stop drinking on their own or continue with moderate drinking for most of their lives.
Intermediate Familial Subtype
The Intermediate familial subtype makes up about 19 percent of alcoholics. This group tends to be of middle age, and likely began drinking in their early teens or twenties. Almost half of this group has a family member with alcoholism or drug abuse of some kind, making the peer pressure influence of drug abuse the leading cause for their alcoholism.
This subgroup consumes more alcohol than the previous two, with an average of 5-10 drinks five nights or more a week. This subtype happens to have the highest rates of employment among all alcoholics and maintain good full-time jobs and income. This group is male dominant and has a lot of co-occurring mental health conditions associated with it.
More than half of this group suffers from anxiety and depression, and a smaller percent suffer from more complicated mental health conditions like OCD and bipolar disorder. They also have higher rates of polysubstance abuse with co-occurring addictions such as cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. About one-third of this subgroup will seek help for their addiction, and of that percentage, almost all of them first receive professional detox. They tend to try group therapy or counseling programs that will help them work alongside others going through similar experiences.
Chronic Severe Subtype
This subtype is the least common but the most severe. It only accounts for about 9 percent of alcoholics and is typically characterized by middle-aged individuals who have been drinking most of their lives (early teens and on). This subtype has exceptionally high rates of co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders, with over half diagnosed with some personality disorder.
This group drinks almost every single day and has up to 15 drinks. Most people in this subgroup will experience severe withdrawals if they go more than a few hours and require professional treatment for both their physical and mental addiction to alcohol.
Get Help for Alcoholism Today
Every subtype of alcoholics deserves equal treatment and support through their addiction. Sobriety is achievable, no matter how long or how often you or your loved one has been drinking. Coastal Detox’s treatment facility offers professional detox to ensure you have the most pain-free and smooth detox possible, and are ready and prepared to take on your long-term treatment plan. Call us today for more information.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2094392/
https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/report_2716/ShortReport-2716.html
https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/treatment-approaches-drug-addiction
Adderall is a prescription drug that is commonly prescribed to treat ADD and ADHD. While not as commonly used, it can also be prescribed to treat narcolepsy as well. In its purest form, it is actually a type of speed that acts on the central nervous system. For those suffering from ADD or ADHD, it is used to help improve focus and function. However, given the fact that it is a stimulant, it, unfortunately, gets abused, not just by those who might be medically prescribed it, but also by those who are simply looking to use it recreationally. As a result, it can lead to addiction and in some cases even an overdose. In this blog, we will take a look at what Adderall is and the risks associated with Adderall abuse and addiction, including the signs of Adderall overdose.
What Is Adderall?
As we touched on in the introduction, Adderall is a stimulant that is commonly prescribed to treat ADD and ADHD. It can also be used to treat those suffering from narcolepsy. It is an amphetamine and, as a result, is considered a Schedule II controlled substance due to it having the ability to be highly addictive. Doses of Adderall range from 5 to 30 milligrams and it is often administered in tablet form to be ingested orally. People who abuse Adderall or use it in ways other than directed might crush up the tablets and snort it in order to get a more immediate result.
How Common Is Adderall Abuse?
While millions of people take Adderall every day to help treat their ADD and ADHD, there are also a lot of people who take it for non-medical purposes, or recreationally. In fact, in 2014 alone there were more than 4 million people in the United States between the ages of 18 and 25 who took Adderall recreationally. Adderall is particularly commonly abused by those in this age range as it is a popular drug for those who are in school to take in order to help them study for tests and get better grades in school, even if they aren’t medically prescribed it. Since Adderall is an amphetamine or stimulant, for those who don’t need Adderall to help treat their ADD or ADHD, Adderall can help someone stay up for hours and hours without the need for a break.
Since it is so popular amongst young adults, even those who aren’t medically prescribed it, there is a much higher risk of addiction and even overdose. Most people who take Adderall recreationally don’t concern themselves with things like dosage or how much they are ingesting in a certain period of time. They just take as much as they want until they reach their desired goal and don’t really think about the consequences too much. This can be very dangerous and lead to significant health issues.
In What Ways Is Adderall Abused?
Unlike many other drugs of abuse, Adderall often isn’t viewed in the same negative light due to the fact that it is medically prescribed and, when used as directed, can help greatly in people who suffer from ADD or ADHD. For some people who medically need it, without Adderall their ability to go about their daily lives would be a significant struggle. It also doesn’t have the same negative connotation because of how many people are medically prescribed it. If you, yourself, aren’t medically prescribed Adderall there’s a very good chance someone in your family is, or you know someone who is.
That being said, because of how common Adderall is, it can also be easily abused. For those who take Adderall who isn’t prescribed by a doctor, the medical consequences of taking and abusing Adderall can be severe. Some of the most common reasons that Adderall is used in ways other than directed and abused include:
- To help focus on studying or cramming for a test
- Staying awake for long periods of time
- Weight loss
- Increased focus to help improve athletic performance
What Demographics Most Commonly Abuse Adderall?
As we touched on in the introduction, Adderall is commonly abused by those between the ages of 18 and 25, usually for the purposes of studying for a test or getting better grades in school. That being said, there are other demographics who commonly abuse the drug and take it for reasons other than medically directed. Let’s take a look at some of the demographics that most commonly abuse Adderall.
People with Eating Disorders or Those Looking to Lose Weight
Adderall is considered to be an appetite suppressant. In fact, one of the most common side effects amongst those who are medically prescribed Adderall is a loss of appetite. As a result, those who suffer from an eating disorder or those looking to lose weight fast might find it be advantageous to take Adderall.
Athletes
It’s no secret that during their respective seasons, athletes often have a crazy and hectic schedule. This is particularly true at the professional level where games are often played on consecutive days or nights and travel is often done between cities in the middle of the night. Athletes might then turn to Adderall to help combat the fatigue and help keep them mentally sharp. In fact, it has gotten so prevalent in professional athletics that many pro sports leagues have banned the substance entirely unless the player has a prescription for it from a doctor.
Students and Professionals
While it’s pretty commonly known that students will often abuse Adderall to help them study and cram for tests, especially at the college level, what many people might not know is that those in the professional world often abuse Adderall as well. Especially in those fields that require a lot of demand and laser-sharp focus, Adderall can help a person focus better and stay awake longer while staying sharp and not feeling the effects of sleep deprivation.
Can You Overdose on Adderall?
Even for someone taking Adderall as medically directed, there is a risk of the development of an addiction or overdose. For someone who is taking it recreationally, those chances are even greater. Since Adderall is such a popular drug to take, both medically prescribed and recreationally, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of a possible Adderall overdose. And Adderall overdose that goes left untreated can lead to serious medical problems and even death. Some common signs and symptoms of an Adderall overdose include:
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
- A breakdown of the muscles in the body
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Hyperactivity
- Rapid breathing
- Stomach pain
- Fever
- Aggressiveness
- Panic attacks
- Heart attack
- Anxiety
- Severe depression
- Discolored urine
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
If you or someone you know begins experiencing any of these symptoms as a result of taking Adderall, seek immediate medical attention. It could mean that the dosage is too high or it could be an overdose.
Is Adderall Addiction and Overdose Treatable?
While treatment for Adderall addiction might not be able to solve all the medical issues that could arise from it, especially if there is an overdose, there are treatment options to get off Adderall and no longer be dependent on it.
Before any sort of treatment can begin though, the first step is to detox off of Adderall and any other harmful substances that you might also be on. Without ridding the body and brain of these harmful substances, it can not truly begin to recover. Detoxing should be done under the care and supervision of trained medical professionals. This can be done at either a local medical facility, a treatment facility that also offers detox services, or even a dedicated detox center such as Coastal Detox. Attempting to self-detox can be incredibly dangerous and even life threatening.
Once detox has been completed, the next step is to begin treatment. When it comes to treating Adderall addiction and dependency, psychotherapy is one of the most popular options. CBT or cognitive-behavioral therapy specifically, is used to essentially reprogram the brain and teach it not to need Adderall anymore. Additionally, CBT helps the person in treatment understand the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and their addiction. A major advantage of CBT is that it can be done in both inpatient and outpatient treatment.
What Are The Signs of Adderall Abuse?
Adderall abuse is common due to the easy access to which people can obtain it. If you don’t have an Adderall prescription, chances are someone in your family or someone that you know does. Luckily, for those who find themselves suffering from Adderall abuse and addiction, there are ways to get help. At Coastal Detox we understand that while detox is the first step on the road to recovery, it is a vital one. In fact, without first detoxing, the treatment process can’t truly begin. For more information about our detox programs and the substances we treat in addition to Adderall, contact us today.
If you were just diagnosed with a mental depression disorder, one of the first areas of discussion was most likely relating to antidepressants. Depression is sadly one of the most common mental health disorders. It can be defined as a mood disorder where individuals undergo persistent loss of interest and feelings of sadness that can affect their daily lives.
Unfortunately, antidepressant prescriptions have increased over the years as more and more individuals find themselves faced with depression. Commonly, depression will be linked to addiction, and vice versa. This results in what is known as a co-occurring disorder.
A co-occurring disorder can be described as an individual with a substance use disorder and a mental health condition. If an individual decides to undergo a professional drug and alcohol detox center such as Coastal Detox, a dual diagnosis treatment plan will be put into place to thoroughly monitor both conditions simultaneously.
How Do Antidepressants Work?
Antidepressants function and work by manipulating chemical messenger production, also known as serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical that nerve cells produce. The job of serotonin is to send signals between your nerve cells. It is mostly found in the digestive system but can also be discovered throughout the central nervous system and in an individual’s blood platelets.
Antidepressants act as a reliable resource for the individuals it’s prescribed to. It thoroughly manages depression symptoms. There are numerous benefits to taking antidepressants. The question has been asked, “Can you get addicted to antidepressants?” The answer is: absolutely.
Though antidepressants have the potential to enhance an individual’s life, it’s incredibly suggested and valuable to take the medication as prescribed and with moderation. A large portion of individuals diagnosed with depression refuse medical support, and mixing antidepressants with various substances can result in the common entity of polydrug use.
The Six Classifications For The Types Of Medication
- SNRI’s (Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors)
- Non-competitive N-Methyl-D aspartate receptor antagonists
- Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRI’s)
- SSRI’s (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
How Do Antidepressants Differ From Other Medications?
Antidepressants are considered a safer option prescribed to treat mental health conditions in comparison to benzodiazepines such as Valium and Xanax. Antidepressants can produce withdrawal symptoms and physical dependence if an individual decides to misuse them. The medications listed here do not produce that same euphoric feeling as more potent substances such as Fentanyl and alcohol.
Antidepressants are generally prescribed for 4-8 weeks, at least until an individual begins to experience any effects. The potential side effects will be considered and monitored for the individual’s safety. There is suicidal ideation that occurs in about 4% of individuals who are prescribed antidepressants. Alongside that, there is a warning label for that reason for individuals between the ages of 18-24.
To prevent depression symptoms from returning, antidepressants are typically prescribed for 6-12 months, especially if the person has experienced depression for the first time. Depending on the specific individual’s status, their health provider will determine the length after the initial process. If the individual begins to feel better after, there will be a periodic checkup.
During the periodic checkup, it’s ideal to discuss any potential lingering effects an individual might experience. If the person has a history of depression within their family realm, that factor can influence the length of the antidepressant. Long-term use of medication is more likely to occur with an individual who experiences two or more episodes of depression.
What Is Serotonin?
Serotonin is associated with feelings of serenity and happiness. Some antidepressants target both norepinephrine and serotonin. Norepinephrine is considered an individual’s stress hormone. Serotonin and norepinephrine are both neurotransmitters.
What Are Some Alternatives To Using Antidepressants?
Sleep
Insomnia is a known trigger for anyone faced with depression. When a person undergoes a lack of sleep, there can be damaging consequences to the individual’s body and mind. The body must receive an adequate amount of sleep to function properly.
Exercise
Exercise is a highly recommended and effective activity that can be utilized to combat anxiety and depression symptoms. When an individual engages in working out for 30 minutes a day, it can be extremely helpful in keeping the body and mind clear. Exercise is extremely versatile and can come in various techniques and forms, so finding what works best for you is encouraged.
A powerful approach to exercise is through group sports. It might be easy to find a refreshing community through relationship building and teamwork.
Pets
The company and companionship of pets can bring affection during stressful times and loyal support throughout. Pets have the power to make you feel less alone. When an individual engages in withdrawal and isolation, their mental health can be negatively impacted.
By having a pet to care for and love, the individual struggling with depression can receive love in return and healthy outdoor engagement.
Social Support
Your social support is considered a vital aspect of your development and overall growth. If you discover that it’s challenging to connect with others, practice self-compassion. Don’t be afraid to lean on your support group because the people in your life can offer support and their time. By engaging in activity planning, a sense of belonging can be brought back to your remembrance.
Therapy
Therapy is a splendid way to express feelings and thoughts in a clinical setting and open and welcoming environment. It’s essential to distinguish how an individual’s behavior and thoughts coexist with one another. If you are diagnosed with clinical depression, it’s most likely that you have experienced therapy.
Finding a therapist who can understand your specific needs is extremely essential. Building a substantial relationship with a counselor or therapist requires patience and time. Individuals facing depression usually find therapy illuminating to manage symptoms and discover root causes. It can also help you discover a healthier approach to avoid having to rely on coping mechanisms that are unhealthy.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is one alternative to antidepressants for some individuals. It is the practice of meditation by being present in the moment and utilizing the fundamental aspect of breathwork. The hustle and bustle of everyday life are prone to having many individuals experiencing a withdrawn feeling from the subtle and internal moments of an ideal human experience.
Mindfulness adds the additional benefit of reduced symptoms of:
- Depression
- Brain fog
- Anxiety
This approach can be performed best through a peaceful environment and virtually anywhere. During the relaxing moments, the individual can experience a clear opportunity to reflect on their life overall and any decisions moving forward.
What Can Individuals Take/Do Instead Of Antidepressants?
There are a variety of substitutes for antidepressants and alternatives to antidepressants, along with supplements geared to reduce specific symptoms of depression. Natural remedies have been known to grow in more recent years. There is still no solid evidence indicating that substitutes for antidepressants work more effectively than antidepressants such as Zoloft, Prozac, or any other antidepressants.
If you feel the need to make a change in your life and feel like substitutes for antidepressants would be suited for this change, the most effective step would be speaking to your doctor first. Once you understand the reason behind your depression, finding substitutes for antidepressants will become an easier task.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is a well-known alternative to antidepressants. It can, however, cause a conflict with other prescription medications. This alternative is commonly prescribed in Germany and can assist with the following symptoms:
- Mild Depression
- Premenstrual
- Sleep Loss
- Anxiety
It’s important to note that these substitutes for antidepressants do not necessarily work for every individual. Some of the most common side effects of this medication are the following:
- Sensitivity to light and other forms of UV rays
- Nausea and vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Blurred vision
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
It is certainly ideal to speak to your doctor before using St. John’s Wort.
Essential Oils
Essential oils such as lavender oil can help ease tension and stress without the negative side effects of the antidepressants since they are two of the major depression triggers. It’s vital to note that essential oils should not replace any existing depression treatment but rather be used alongside in collaboration with them.
Melatonin And Valerian
Ingredients such as Melatonin and Valerian are alternatives to antidepressants that can be taken instead of harmful medication. For example, many individuals discover relief from their depressive symptoms by utilizing Valerian root instead of Zoloft (sertraline). Melatonin is a great option that can assist an individual in restoring their natural sleep cycle.
If you are known to struggle with depression, it’s more likely that your body is not in sync with its natural circadian rhythm. This could explain why it’s a struggle to wake up in the early morning feeling well-rested and sleeping soundly at night. Melatonin will assist an individual in resetting their internal clock and give them a greater opportunity of receiving quality rest every night.
The valerian root is another effective tool for individuals who desire substitutes for antidepressants. It’s generally utilized as an anxiety disorder but has been known to reduce symptoms of depression too.
5-HTP
5-HTP has gained negative attention due to the dangerous side effects, including heart problems. Before utilizing alternatives to antidepressants such as this one, it’s imperative to speak with your doctor first. It’s suggested that while taking alternatives to antidepressants, it’s ideal to stay on the safe side and avoid any risk alternatives to antidepressants such as 5-HTP.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are vital aspects of a person’s development. A deficiency in this can lead to cognitive issues such as a learning disability or much more. The role of omega-3 fatty acids is to assist brain function by keeping nerve cells flexible properly enough to send messages effectively and quickly.
This substitute for antidepressants works like one but doesn’t carry the same side effects. These essential oils have been shown to increase brain chemicals that affect mood, such as serotonin levels. Fish oil has been shown to effectively treat depression.
Some alternatives to antidepressants include:
- Fish oil capsules, which is an incredible source of omega
- Walnuts
- Flax oil
What Are The Dangers Of Misusing Antidepressants?
Though the question has been asked, “Can you get addicted to antidepressants?” Antidepressants can pose withdrawal symptoms from misuse, just like any other drug. It’s essential to avoid mixing any substances with antidepressants to prevent the risk of potentially drastic effects. It is vital to never exceed the recommended dosage of the medication.
Side Effects Of An Antidepressant Overdose Include:
- Irregular heartbeat and increased body temperature
- Restlessness, irritability, and anxiety
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
- Seizures
The withdrawal symptoms of antidepressants can be extreme depending on which one you’re taking. There have been severe cases of flu-like symptoms associated with suicidal thoughts and, in rare cases, death. Chronic short-term users of SSRIs can experience less severe withdrawals, which are known to fade over some time as the body adjusts to the termination of serotonin production.
Withdrawal Symptoms
- Return of depressive symptoms
- Electric shock sensations
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Nausea
Recovery Awaits At Coastal Detox Today
Individuals who try alternatives to antidepressants typically find great relief from their mental and emotional struggles as a result. We understand how difficult a depression journey can be. Here at Coastal Detox, we will provide you with the necessary tools to detox from depression and enter into a life free from addiction. Contact us today to get started.
Why Is Drinking After Work Common?
To many, alcohol is an easy way to relax after a stressful day. You may find yourself pouring a drink after work because work is very stressful for many people regardless of the occupation. Yes, alcohol may seem like an easy way to relax but it is certainly not the best way. It can have short- and long-term effects on your body.
Having a drink (or a couple) occurs frequently after work. Stress and substance abuse, such as alcohol, can be common in people who do not have effective ways to manage their stress. Despite the relaxing effects you think alcohol may have, it is a depressant. Alcohol disrupts the chemical balance in your brain and affects the way you think, feel and behave. For someone who is experiencing a stressful day, wine after work, or beer whatever you prefer, may help you feel at ease but the feeling does not last long.
Drinking after work has also become a common culture for work-related activities. Many companies have found that it is a way to celebrate recent accomplishments from the company or it can bring people together to network and brainstorm. Despite being in a work-related setting there is the risk of overconsumption. This can have serious repercussions for both the individual and their company.
What are the Dangers Of “Stress Drinking”?
Drinking after work is not the best way to relieve stress after a stressful workday. As stated before alcohol consumption can have effects on your body short- and long-term, especially when consumed regularly and frequently.
Relying on alcohol to mask the stressful feeling you have after work could cause you to drink more alcohol. This can lead to a tolerance to alcohol. This means that you will need to drink more alcohol over time to get the same relaxing feelings you had in the past. Alcohol dependence is the result of this because stress does not go away with alcohol, it could pile up. So instead of dealing with what is stressing you out, you use alcohol to give you a short-term relaxation feeling.
Short-Term and Long-Term Health Risk Of Alcohol
Some short-term effects that alcohol can have are:
- Injuries, such as falls, and motor vehicle crashes: Drinking alcohol can make you unstable on your feet which can result in falls while at home. Also, alcohol can make it difficult for you to concentrate, impair your judgment, and make quick reactions to a certain situation. So if you drive after drinking you may be involved in a car accident.
- Alcohol poisoning: Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency that results from high blood alcohol levels. Symptoms include vomiting, unconsciousness, and slurred speech. If you notice these symptoms in someone who has been drinking, call for medical attention immediately.
- Miscarriage and stillbirth or fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs): The first couple of weeks in a fetus is the most crucial. This is also too early for a woman to notice that she is pregnant. Due to it being such a critical period in a fetus development alcohol can cause miscarriage due to the fetus being unable to process alcohol as well as an adult. Alcohol can also cause FASDs which can cause deformities in the joints, limbs, or fingers of the infant and slow physical growth before and/or after birth.
- Sexually transmitted diseases: When drinking at a bar with other people, including some of your coworkers, you may engage in risky sexual behaviors included unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners. These behaviors can result in sexually transmitted diseases including HIV.
The long-term effects that can occur from drinking alcohol frequently are:
- High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems
- Cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum.
- Weakening of the immune system increases the chances of you getting sick.
- Learning and memory problems, including dementia.
- Mental health problems, including depression and anxiety.
- Social problems, including family problems, job-related problems, and unemployment.
- Alcohol use disorders or alcohol dependence. Which can make it harder for you to quit.
By limiting the amount you drink, especially after work, you can reduce the risk of these short- and long-term effects on your body.
6 Tips To Avoid The Urge To Drink Alcohol To Cope With Stress
Here are 6 tips you can do to avoid the urge to drink alcohol to cope with stress
- Limit the number of drinks you have: This will limit the short- and long-term effects on your body. This will also help you get the number of drinks you drink to 0 as you keep yourself accountable. To help you achieve limiting your number you can download drinking counting apps on your phone to help you keep track of how much alcohol you’ve had.
- Have compassion for yourself: You might have heard the saying “it is easier said than done”, and that is true. When you’re so used to a routine of drinking 2 beers after work, or other alcohol, it is hard to break that routine. So give yourself some credit for taking steps to reduce your alcohol intake. Making small goals may help as well. For example, having a drink after work every other day then reducing it to every 2 days. Remember to be kind to yourself.
- Speaking with your HR department: Your company may have frequent work-related events where alcohol is involved. You can make suggestions to your HR department to include sober activities. You can still celebrate achievement, network, and brainstorm sober. It can be better to do these things sober because people can work with a clear head, not say things they don’t mean, or make promises they cannot keep. Some sober events include bowling, mini-golf, or escape rooms.
- Swapping out the alcohol: Instead of drinking beer after work or pouring another alcoholic drink, try finding non-alcoholic drinks that you like. Having a selection of alcohol-free drinks at home that you like is a good way to avoid alcohol. You can have a different non-alcoholic drink every night to avoid getting bored of the same drinks. Also, when around your coworkers remember that drinking alcohol is not required just because everybody else is drinking. You can swap out alcohol for flavored sparkling water or soda.
- Finding alternative activities to replace alcohol: Instead of pouring yourself a glass of wine to reduce stress after a long workday, how about trying to pick up another activity to reduce stress besides alcohol. You could go for a walk, do yoga, or find an exercise class that occurs around the time you are off from work. You can also find yourself a hobby such as sewing or reading books. If you’re not sure what will work for you yet, try a few activities a couple of times and pick the one best for you. This will help you focus on something else besides alcohol. Watch how these activities eventually take the place of alcohol in your life.
- Ask for support: Reducing the amount of alcohol you drink can be very challenging. You should not do it alone, especially when many people are going through the same challenges as you. You can join a social group that shares the same hobbies as you, such as arts and crafts, yoga, or music. You can also be connected with other sober people who share similar interests as you on apps or online communities. Connecting with other sober people, or people who are also trying to avoid frequent alcohol consumption after work can help people stay accountable. It is like having an accountability partner. Remember there are a lot of people in the same boat as you, so don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.
Treatment For Alcohol Addiction At Coastal Detox
Alcohol withdrawal can be very dangerous and painful, and in some cases fatal. It is never a good idea to stop cold turkey or try to detox alone. Completing a medically supervised detoxification protocol within a licensed detox facility is the safest and most effective way.
If you or a family member is dealing with alcohol addiction and are ready to take the next step towards recovery, Coastal Detox is here to help.
Coastal Detox is located in the city of Stuart on Florida’s treasure coast. We are a licensed and accredited medical detoxification facility. At Coastal Detox, our mission is to help each client experience detox from alcohol and other substance addiction with ease. To begin recovery, the first step is detoxification, to rid your body of any drugs and alcohol. We provide safe and highly effective medically supervised detox for all substances of abuse.
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, and you have been putting it off please contact Coastal Detox today. A future free from substance abuse is possible.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm
https://www.tlnt.com/yes-after-work-drinking-is-a-serious-workplace-issue/
Emotions can run high during the recovery process. One of the more powerful and hostile emotions is anger. Anger is a common emotion and is defined as feelings of displeasure and annoyance. Anger is completely normal, however, failing to control your own anger can lead to problems down the line. This is especially true when it comes to anger and addiction.
Anger is an emotion that can stem from a variety of different reasons. It can be something small or an underlying trauma in some cases. However the anger may have come about, it’s important to know how to deal with anger in a healthy way. There are methods of dealing with anger that are effective and healthy as well. When it comes to anger management in addiction recovery, it’s crucial to be practicing proper anger management.
Substance Abuse and Domestic Abuse/Violence
As such a destructive emotion, anger has been linked to substance use disorders. Those who grow up in an aggressive and violent household can end up becoming violent themselves. This also goes with substance abuse as well. When it comes to domestic violence, children who witness aggression between their parents/partners end up having a number of negative symptoms including:
- Bullying
- Getting into fights
- Lowered self-esteem
- Anxiety
- Rebellious behavior
- Worsened performance at school
- Depression
- Substance abuse
Developing a personality is an important part of growing up and witnessing these traumas or other disturbances can make a negative impact. Starting to use substances at such an early age can end up being extremely harmful. Turning to drugs is not uncommon for those who experience traumas or violence on a regular basis. These same people are never taught about coping with anger in a healthy way.
The Connection Between Anger Management and Substance Abuse
Anger can be a healthy emotion at times, however, when a person fails to control it, it can end up causing serious issues. This is especially true for those who are dealing with substance abuse. When it comes to anger and addiction, it’s crucial to manage anger effectively. Addiction can create a vicious cycle of drug of alcoholism and anger (or other addictions).
A person may have angry outbursts when under the influence of drugs. They may lash out in anger before soothing their anger with more drugs or alcohol. This creates a dangerous cycle of anger and substance abuse. As time goes, a person’s addiction and mental health will only worsen. Regardless of whether the outburst or drug use comes first, a person should get help.
A person can end up developing a dependence on the cycle of anger and substance abuse. This can happen without a person even realizing it. This constant cycle can end up leading to mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and overall feelings of hopelessness. To cope with these a person may use drugs and thus, the cycle continues. If you or a loved one is dealing with an addiction or a mental health disorder, it’s important to get help sooner than later.
Anger Management in Addiction Recovery
Emotions tend to run high during recovery, especially near the beginning. Past traumas, stresses, and other situations may have a person feeling angry and aggressive. During recovery, it is important to learn how to cope with these emotions in a healthy way. If these emotions are not managed effectively, a relapse may be in the cards.
During the process, there will be many opportunities to learn coping strategies while talking through these feelings. While it’s normal to be angry sometimes, it’s important to keep a leveled head when it comes to drug addiction recovery. Fortunately, there are several ways a person can learn to control their anger and cope with life’s stresses. Like anything else, coping with anger takes time, patience, and determination.
How to Manage Anger During Addiction Recovery
Understanding how to deal with and manage your anger is vital to recovery success. This can mean the difference between a healthy and unhealthy state of mind. There are many positive ways of coping with anger. Let’s take a look at how to effectively manage anger during recovery. Some of the common ways of dealing with anger include:
- Journaling
- Exercising
- Talking to a professional or loved one
- Meditation
- Hobbies or activities
- Practicing Self-awareness
Journaling
Keeping a journal is a great way to manage your anger and your stress. This method is used for stress management and relapse prevention as well. Sometimes putting your thoughts down on paper can help you come to terms with these feelings. Also writing down what you are grateful for can also be therapeutic for anger and stress management.
Exercising
Exercise is a vital part of a healthy and balanced life. We hear it time and time about how important exercise is for our body and mind. Exercise can help reduce stress and make us feel and think clearer. Exercising can also be a great outlet for anger, going for a jog or hitting the gym can help your mind and body cope.
Talking to a Professional or Loved One
One of the most effective ways to manage anger is to talk to someone about it. Talking to a professional or someone you can trust is crucial to managing your anger. Holding all those angry emotions in can be a recipe for disaster in some cases. Opening up and understanding why you feel the way you do can make a massive difference during recovery.
Meditation
As one of the more holistic options for addiction treatment, meditation can be a powerful tool for coping with anger. Remaining relaxed and letting your body settle down is a great way to ease tension and anger. Meditating doesn’t take long and can essentially be done anywhere. Meditation is used for some cases of addiction to help during therapy and recovery. Meditation can be a great outlet to manage anger.
Engaging in Hobbies or Activities
One of the best ways to distract yourself from your emotions is to pick up a hobby. There are so many opportunities to do something you love. Whether that be picking up an instrument, reading, writing, drawing, or just joining a club. Taking your mind to a creative and free space can help you deal with anger. However, it’s important not to completely ignore your anger, still speak to a loved one or therapist if needed.
Practice Self-Awareness
One of the best ways of practicing anger management in addiction recovery is to be self-aware and open. It helps to know what makes you angry or what triggers certain emotions. Dealing with these or avoiding them is key to managing your anger. If there are certain things that need to be addressed such as boundaries, self-awareness can help you achieve that. Likewise, if there are situations that you know will make you angry, it’s best to try and avoid them.
Managing Anger Through Therapy
Therapy is an essential part of the addiction treatment process. Rehab centers like Coastal Detox, have a variety of different therapy options available. We help you manage all emotions and thoughts you may be having. Included in this are anger and other emotions. Talking to a trained professional can help you change your mindset and manage your anger. Additionally, therapy is not a one size fits all situation either.
There are several different types of treatment for anger and addiction, options that can be used for both situations. Understanding self-control, awareness, and other elements of one’s self are crucial to managing anger in recovery.
Therapy can help anger management in addiction recovery by:
- Improving a person’s communication skills
- Improving problem-solving skills
- Impulse control
- Learning to forgive others
- Using logical thought and reasoning
- Managing frustration
- Practicing self-awareness and mindfulness
- Removing triggers (in a healthy way)
These are fundamental parts of anger and addiction recovery. Learning to understand your situation and coping with anger in a healthy way is crucial for long-term sobriety. With the right help and practice, a person can live a better and calmer life.
Two of the main forms of therapy (used for both anger and addiction) are cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – CBT focuses on changing how a person thinks about their surroundings and thoughts. It helps to replace negative emotions and influences with positive ones.
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) – DBT helps a person accept uncomfortable thoughts while teaching coping mechanisms and techniques along the way.
Both CBT and DBT are effective in treating cases of anger and addiction.
Getting Professional Help
With the link between anger management and substance abuse, it’s important to have professionals help on your side. At Coastal Detox, we help our clients overcome their addiction with effective, research-based treatment. Sometimes all it takes is one step forward to make a change in your life. If you or a loved one is suffering from drug addiction, it may be time to get help. Give us a call today to learn more about the detox process and what comes next.
For years, celebrities have endorsed all kinds of products that appear on TV, magazines, billboards, and even social media. One significant trend lately is to promote detoxifying teas.
It’s no secret that consumers care about their health and physical appearance. With the rise of quick-fix products, some may worry that these teas are also unhealthy and ineffective in the long term. Are there truths to these myths?
What are Detox Teas?
People have spent thousands of years trying to eliminate the toxins they believe are in the body. Some historic practices include sweat lodges, bloodletting, fasting, enemas, and detoxification tea. Many of these were even used as medical treatments until the 20th century.
These days, drinking detox teas remains a popular choice. You might have even seen celebrities using them, especially with the well-known “Master Cleanse” diet.
The Difference Between Detox Teas and Cleanses
Though these terms are often used in the same way, they are technically different products with their own purposes. Depending on your goals, you might use one or the other, or both at various points.
What Do Cleanses Do?
A cleanse is when you eliminate the junk food in your diet with nutrient-rich foods with lots of fiber. These foods make you feel better while also taking better care of your organs, making the kidneys and liver work more efficiently. A primary focus is to release stagnation in the GI tract to stimulate waste elimination. Properly eating nutritious foods and fiber help get rid of excess water and bloat.
Cleanse teas are primarily focused on helping the GI tract to relieve stagnation. Common ingredients include fennel seed, cinnamon, ginger, senna, and green tea.
Benefits of Detox Tea
Detox is a process that allows your body to get rid of accumulated toxins like alcohol and heavy metals; cleansing the body of these toxins also helps your kidneys and liver. Food alone cannot detoxify the body, but eating better foods makes the organs healthier and better at their assigned tasks. These diets are usually paired with fasts because they are more restrictive than simple cleanses.
A batch of detox tea is usually a combination of herbs meant to encourage urination and stimulate the liver and kidney. Commonly used ingredients include coriander, fennel seed, dandelion root, and milk thistle.
Whether or not the tea is good for you depends on the ingredients used to make it. If you’re unfamiliar with the component, look them up. It’s best to source your tea from a dedicated tea merchant; specialty supplement vendors may have questionable sources for their teas.
Like any dietary supplement, detox ingredients aren’t FDA-regulated. In fact, some teas from questionable sources have previously been found to contain dangerous chemicals not listed on the package. This is why it’s essential to be able to trust the vendor you get your teas from.
It’s a good idea to discuss your plan to use a home detox product with a doctor before using it.
Detox Tea Benefits: Are They Safe?
Most doctors agree the best way to a healthy lifestyle is to maintain a quality diet, get a good amount of exercise, and remain hydrated. Teas that promise body detoxification often neglect to mention that our bodies already perform that function naturally when given a chance.
Physical Challenges
Drinking detox teas regularly over several weeks or months will lead to digestive problems. These teas have laxative components, and the regular stimulation to your bowel can lead to a dependency on the ingredients to keep performing their functions. In other words, when you stop drinking the tea, you may feel constipated and need to use potent laxatives to resume bowel motions.
Teas that contain stimulants can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, both of which can further lead to feeling jittery, anxious, and like you’re on edge. People who live with cardiac illness, hypertension, arrhythmias, and certain psychiatric illnesses can struggle even more from these detox tea side effects.
Dehydration is another possible complication. Many detox teas contain diuretics to stimulate urination, but this makes you lose more water than usual; this loss of water weight is why you may see your weight drop by several pounds after a few days. The sometimes substantial diuretic effect can also lead to a loss of potassium, sodium, and other essential elements for heart and muscle function.
Psychological Challenges
The secondary challenge is the concern that these teas promote negative self-images. Couple this with social media, which also contributes to negative body images, and many worry about physical beauty’s toxic commercialized standard. Celebrities may reinforce this narrative by claiming they’ll look and feel as good as they do if they try a particular tea, neglecting to mention they receive a commission on sales.
In reality, proper weight loss and sobriety require more help than that. Most celebrities have access to personal trainers, nutritious food, and health professionals who can help them maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.
How Can Tea Detoxify the Body?
Every day, we drink gallons of tea, and many swear by it. How does tea detox the body?
Going Green
Chances are that you’ve heard about the many benefits of detox tea and green tea:
- Helps burn fat: Green tea contains antioxidant properties that speed up your metabolic rate, meaning you’ll burn more energy even when you’re not actively exercising.
- Improves immunity: It helps fight against colds and the flu.
- Super medicine: Some reports claim green tea can guard against arthritis, diabetes, and certain cancers.
- Hydrating: Against the common narrative that tea is dehydrating, green tea has re-hydration effects similar to water.
- Neurological: Green tea may be able to prevent neurological and degenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s.
Detoxing can also help you feel more energized and less bloated by flushing the system and assisting the kidneys and liver with their natural functions. Antioxidant rich tea encourages the body to produce more detoxing properties while boosting your immune system, protecting the liver from toxic substances like alcohol.
Detox Tea Side Effects
Many detox teas are simple mixes of various leaves, just like regular tea. Others may contain harmful chemicals that can become dangerous in large enough doses, including:
- laxatives
- medications
- high caffeine levels
- illegal chemicals, like ephedra
Cleansing teas are supposed to give you energy, but they may also send you to the bathroom for long periods at a time. Emptying your bladder and colon more often can lead to mild weight loss, but you mostly lose water rather than toxins.
Though these teas may have chemicals to “speed” things along and help you be more active, the above ingredients can lead to serious health problems, including:
- heart attack
- stroke
- seizures
- death
Are Detox Teas Good for the Liver?
Several medical treatments exist for liver disease, but no studies show that detox supplements can fix the damage.
In fact, some teas can harm your liver; liver injuries caused by dietary and herbal supplements are on the rise. For example, green tea extract may cause damage similar to that caused by hepatitis. Likewise, other teas with inappropriate chemicals can lead to electrolyte problems that can turn deadly in severe cases.
Other things to keep in mind include:
- Some companies may use substances that are unsafe in larger doses. Others make false claims about their treatment potential.
- Unpasteurized juices can cause illness, especially in the elderly or those with weak immune systems.
- If you have diabetes, check with your doctors before making any changes to your normal diet.
- If you have kidney disease, a cleanse with huge amounts of juice can worsen the condition.
- Maintaining a fasting diet as part of a cleansing program can lead to headaches, dehydration, and feeling weak or faint.
- If you have liver damage from hepatitis B, fasting and detoxing can worsen the damage.
Best Tea Cleanses
The following products have strong customer reviews that claim a long list of detox tea benefits. Some varieties are anti-inflammatory while others boost alertness or improve the immune system.
- Yogi Tea: It counters “everyday impurities” by assisting the kidneys and liver.
- Triple Leaf Detox: Caffeine-free tea made with Chinese herbs to cleanse the body.
- Rishi Tea Tumeric Ginger Tea: Made with turmeric powder, orange peel, ginger root, and bits of licorice root.
- Republic of Tea Get Clean No. 7 Tea: Comes with natural almond and vanilla flavors.
- Pukka Herbs Organic Herbal Tea: A good choice for a simple cleanse.
- Traditional Medicinals Everyday Tea: A bittersweet tea with goji berries, stinging nettle, and licorice root.
- Bea’s Wellness Tea Blend: Removes impurities and promises to leave skin healthy and good-looking.
- Gaia Herbs Cleanse and Herbal Tea: Aimed toward liver support and detoxification.
How Long Does Detox Tea Take to Work?
The amount of time it takes for a certain tea to work depends on the manufacturer and blend. Yogi Detox’s maker recommends a 30-day regimen in which you drink three cups every day. Check the box for the most accurate information.
Coastal Detox Can Help
The best detox tea in the world can’t help someone safely detox from drugs or alcohol at home. Coastal Detox can help; contact us today to find out more.
