Drug Detox
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.
Being the husband or wife of a drug addict can be mentally, emotionally, and even physically taxing. Of the married people in the U.S., 24 million are either an addict or married to one. Addiction brings additional struggles and strain to a marriage, an already complex relationship. However, despite the circumstances, it is possible to help your husband or wife with a drug addiction. If you take care of yourself, encourage treatment, remain supportive, and pursue therapy as a couple, your marriage can survive drug addiction.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is often considered a chronic disease and requires professional help, such as medical detox and rehabilitation, to overcome. With addiction, the brain’s structure changes, impairing self-control and decision-making among other functions. As a result, the individual is unable to stop using the drug despite negative consequences.
Someone who uses drugs but is not addicted is able to control their use, including stopping the use entirely (particularly without treatment).
How Can You Tell If Your Husband Or Wife Is An Addict?
Can a marriage survive drug addiction? Answering this question depends on a couple of factors, one of which is spotting an addiction. It may take years to discover that your husband or wife is an addict, especially if they are good at hiding it. Some symptoms can fly under the radar, such as:
- Your spouse needs to use the drug daily
- Your spouse having intense urges for the drug
- Your spouse increasing their consumption of the drug
However, if your husband or wife is exhibiting any of the symptoms below, it is cause for concern and could indicate addiction:
- They choose their substance over everything else, including you
- They continue to use their substance despite negative consequences to relationships, health, jobs, etc.
- They frequently miss important social occasions or shirk social responsibilities
- They experience trouble at work or a high turnover rate
- They argue more frequently with you and these conflicts may escalate and turn physical
- They show little interest in your marriage and grow emotionally distant
- They partake of risky activities or other activities they normally wouldn’t
Addiction does not impact the addict only. The health and behavioral changes, such as paranoia, aggressiveness, and impaired judgment that occur as a result can create an environment that greatly affects you. Being the husband or wife of a drug addict can be stressful.
The Impact Of Addiction On Marriage
Marriages in which one spouse is a drug addict are often very unhappy. Being the husband or wife of a drug addict is difficult, if not dangerous at times. The effects of addiction on marriage can be separated into two categories: economical and psychological.
Economical
The couple may experience financial problems due to the high cost of keeping up their habit. The drugs may be paid for with money that was diverted from other needs (food, heat, clothing) or long-term saving plans (investments).
The addiction may lead to legal repercussions, such as child custody concerns if the couple separates or divorces, or arrests, and trouble with the law because of illicit substances or driving under the influence.
Psychological
The husband or wife of a drug addict may become the victim of domestic abuse. According to the American Psychological Association, heavy drug use increases someone’s chances of becoming an abusive partner.
Drug addiction in marriage can lead to a toxic cycle of conflict and use, which looks like:
- The addiction causes conflict between the couple
- To reduce the stress created by the conflict, the addict uses more
- As a result of using more, there is further conflict about the addiction, and so on
As mentioned under symptoms, the conflict may escalate and become violent. Even if it doesn’t, there is an erosion of trust in the relationship.
Domestic abuse is not limited to physical acts. A husband or wife of an addict may experience verbal and emotional abuse too. The addicted spouse may emotionally withdraw from the other. The user may even have an inability to show affection or communicate unless they are currently under the influence of their substance.
What Should You Do As The Husband Or Wife Of An Addict?
If you recognize the symptoms of addiction in your husband or wife, the most important thing you can do is acknowledge to yourself that it exists. Denial of addiction can be dangerous as it allows present conditions to worsen which may lead to the marriage deteriorating. Of marriages that end in divorce, 7.3 percent are due to substance abuse.
However, a marriage in which one person is an addict does not have to end in divorce. Marriages can survive drug addiction. Once you acknowledge that your spouse is an addict, you can take the necessary actions to help them and help yourself. These actions will help you stay healthy, help your spouse to receive the treatment needed to overcome addiction, and will help you both maintain and repair the relationship.
How You Can Help Your Husband Or Wife With Drug Addiction
Focusing entirely on your husband or wife with addiction is not the solution. While it is important that you are supportive in their pursuit of sober living, you must also care for yourself.
In a codependent marriage, the husband or wife of an addict will try to save their spouse and forget their sense of self in the process. They may even go so far as to undermine their spouse’s efforts to become sober as sobriety means they will lose a form of control over their spouse.
To avoid codependency and to help your marriage survive drug addiction, try and do the following:
Don’t Enable Their Addiction
When you enable your husband or wife in their addiction, you are allowing them to continue their substance abuse and avoid the consequences.
If you have previously enabled them by covering for them, apologizing on their behalf, explaining away their actions, allowing them to shirk responsibilities, or even purchasing or acquiring their substance for them, you must stop.
If you are not sure about the difference between being supportive and being enabling, think of it this way: Any action you take, whether lying, apologizing, or excusing that allows them to remain in denial is an enabling act.
Put Yourself First
Being the husband or wife of a drug addict can be incredibly stressful, tiring, and daunting. Wanting to help them is healthy and normal but you must make sure to look out for your own well-being and health first. You cannot spend all your time and energy on your husband or wife.
Continue with your own interests, activities, and hobbies, as well as:
- Stay active
- Maintain friendships outside of your marriage
- Make sure not to isolate yourself
- Seek support
Educate Yourself On Addiction
The understanding of addiction has changed over the years. It is now considered a disease and a mental disorder. Knowing the terminology, signs, symptoms, and reasons for addiction will help you with perspective and will allow you to respond better to your husband or wife.
Learn About Treatment Options
Hand in hand with educating yourself about addiction is learning about the types of treatment available since no one treatment will suit everyone. Look for certified and accredited treatment options that are evidence-based.
Most drug addiction treatment programs begin with detoxification. Detox is the physical process (preferably medically monitored) of removing the substance from the body and is the first part of the recovery process. During detox, the physiological effects of the addiction are resolved. Depending on the level of addiction, detox can last anywhere from a day to weeks.
Some treatments will involve you in the process. Therapies that focus on both individuals in the marriage, not just the addict, have a higher success rate at achieving long-term sobriety.
Encourage Your Partner To Get Treatment
Overcoming drug addiction without professional help is unnecessarily painful and difficult. Encourage your husband or wife to seek a treatment option that will allow them to live a healthy and sober life.
If your husband or wife seeks treatment, be supportive. Even if you are not directly involved in the treatment, offering support could look like:
- Calling them on the phone
- Sending care packages
- Speaking with staff about expectations and next steps
- Being kind, honest, and empathetic
- Telling them what their recovery means to you
Set Boundaries
At some point, as the husband or wife of an addict, you will have to confront your spouse. It’s a difficult but necessary step. You should set clear boundaries as a means to protect your mental and physical health.
The addict must know the consequences of their actions and what they are willing to accept or not accept. For instance, it may be that you withdraw financial support if they continue using. Boundaries should not be seen as punishment. You are setting boundaries out of a desire to take care of yourself and hopefully encourage your husband or wife to seek help for their addiction.
Join A Support Group Or Get Counselling
It cannot be said enough, being the husband or wife of an addict is difficult and their lifestyle has repercussions for you. Seek support from an individual or group who can understand your experiences and will help you through this season in your life.
Prepare For Relapse
A relapse means your spouse has returned to their previous negative behavior (drug use) after positive change. Relapse is a normal (though not unavoidable) part of addiction. The majority of addicts will relapse at least once in their pursuit of living a sober life.
Couples Therapy
Behavioral couples therapy is one approach to therapy. It is designed to provide the couple with problem-solving and communication skills needed to overcome the patterns that allow addiction to continue in the marriage. Additionally, this therapy focuses on encouraging behaviors that promote care and self-help.
Where To Seek Help For Your Husband Or Wife With Drug Addiction
Encouraging your husband or wife to seek treatment is one of the most important things you can do to help. In your treatment research phase, you may feel overwhelmed with the number of options and types of treatments available. We address some of the common questions about addiction treatment, rehab, and recovery through free resources available on our site. We encourage you to check them out as part of your research.
References:
https://www.aamft.org/Consumer_Updates/Substance_Abuse_and_Intimate_Relationships.aspx
https://www.apa.org/topics/physical-abuse-violence/intimate-partner
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.
History of Cocaine Use
Cocaine is a strong stimulant drug with a long and complicated history. Cocaine is also one of the most readily available and heavily abused drugs in the United States, as well as worldwide.
Cocaine is derived from the coco plant, which is usually found in the mountainous regions of South America. Cocaine in its natural form has been used by the native South American tribes for thousands of years. The leaves of the coco plant were chewed, burned, or made into tea in order to provide an energy boost and combat fatigue. The pure form of cocaine hydrochloride was first extracted in the early 1900s and was used medically and recreationally.
Cocaine Was Originally Thought to be a Miracle Drug
Cocaine was first referred to as a “miracle powder” but medical professionals soon realized that this miracle drug had a dark side. The addictive properties of cocaine were soon found out and doctors began noticing there were moderate to severe side effects from long-term use. Cocaine became illegal for recreational use in 1914. There are some medicinal uses for cocaine but they are highly regulated and it is rare.
Cocaine use in all forms became rare after it was outlawed in 1914, but it made a comeback decades later in the 1970s and 1980s. Cocaine addiction devastated many communities, particularly in low-income and minority areas. Cocaine addiction became an epidemic, particularly after a cheaper form of cocaine, called “crack cocaine” was developed.
The Development of Crack Cocaine
Crack cocaine can be ingested in several ways and is cheaper and more readily available. The ease of access helped create a vicious cycle of addiction and abuse in communities nationwide. Today, as many as 2 million Americans struggle with cocaine addiction, though those numbers have begun to slow in recent years.
Why is Cocaine so Addictive?
According to the government research on cocaine addiction, cocaine is particularly addictive because it is so effective at rewiring the brain with speed and efficiency. Cocaine is a stimulant, which means cocaine use triggers the production of pleasure hormones, such as dopamine. The pathways of our brains communicate using dopamine, causing pleasure and euphoria. Cocaine use can overload our neurons, producing extreme highs and low lows.
Cocaine use causes miscommunication between neurons by causing excessive building up of chemicals. Cocaine use causes an excessive amount of dopamine to be produced, and eventually, the body struggles to produce dopamine without the help of cocaine. This leads to tolerance, which is our body’s inability to maintain normal function without the use of a substance. Once tolerance is reached, we require more and more of a substance, which leads to addiction.
How is Cocaine Used?
Cocaine is used in a variety of different ways and each way has a different effect on the user. Cocaine can be administered orally, snorted intranasally, “shot” intravenously, or inhaled. Cocaine is perhaps most often used by snorting or “doing lines”. When people snort cocaine, they inhale it in powder form through their nostrils where it is absorbed into the bloodstream through the nasal tissues. This method provides for one of the quickest “bumps” or highs, although it may not last too long.
Cocaine powder can also be rubbed on the gums or dissolved in water and injected intravenously. Crack cocaine chunks can be melted down and injected, or crumbled into powder form. IV cocaine use releases the drug directly into the bloodstream and produces a rapid and intense high.
Cocaine can be smoked and inhaled as well. It is usually burned in powder form in some sort of makeshift “crack pipe”. Smoking crack cocaine can provide a high that rivals iv cocaine use in intensity and speed of onset. This rapid high from smoking and injecting crack cocaine was largely responsible for the cocaine epidemic in the 1980s.
Because of its extremely addictive properties, cocaine is very difficult to use “recreationally”. Using cocaine in any form can lead to addiction, overdose, or even death.
General Cocaine Use and Addiction Statistics
According to a study done by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), cocaine use is most common in people between the ages of 18-25. However, nearly every other age group is susceptible to the effects of cocaine addiction. Some other notable cocaine use statistics are as follows:
- The states where someone is most likely to develop a cocaine addiction are Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, closely followed by Delaware and New York.
- Men are almost twice as likely to use cocaine as women, particularly in the 18-25 age demographic.
- Cocaine users are actually more likely to come from higher-income brackets, but crack cocaine is generally used by lower-income brackets
- Caucasians represent the largest ethnic group of cocaine users (2%), followed by Hispanic (1.7%) and African-American (1.5%)
- People who have attended college for at least one year are almost twice as likely to use cocaine recreationally
Street Names for Cocaine
Cocaine has been a popular drug for decades, and it’s had its fair share of nicknames as well. Some are based on the appearance of cocaine crystals; others refer to what users feel when they take it or how society is affected by the use of this illicit substance.
Cocaine was given many slang terms over time from “coke” in reference to the white powdery form that resembles baking soda grains all the way up to names such as “Snow White” which reflects one type with an especially pure quality or making references about who can afford doing so – like celebrities.
The long history of cocaine use and abuse in our country has led to dealers and users constantly creating new names for the drug in order to stay ahead of DEA agents, police, and rival drug dealers. This has led to hundreds of names for the different types of cocaine that vary by region and method of use.
Slang Names for Cocaine
Traditional cocaine in powder form can be found by many different names, including:
- Blow
- Bump
- C or Big C
- Coke
- Crack
- Dust
- Flake
- Line
- Nose Candy
- Pearl
- Rail
- Snow
- Sneeze
- Sniff
- Speedball
- Toot
- White Rock
Slang Names for Crack Cocaine
Crack cocaine is also known by some of the following:
- Black rock
- Candy
- Chemical
- Cookies
- Dice
- Gravel
- Grit
- Hail
- Hard rock
- Jelly beans
- Nuggets
- Purple caps
- Rocks
- Scrabble
- Sleet
- Snow coke
- Tornado
Gaining familiarity with the street names for various drugs can help parents and loved ones know if their children or friends/family are engaged in drug abuse. It is important for parents to be aware of these ever-changing slang terms in order to understand the temptations faced by many people in today’s society.
Cultural and Geographic Influences Regarding Slang for Cocaine
In the 1970s, cocaine began to influence many aspects of American society and culture. With its popularity on the rise, it quickly became a popular drug among affluent communities like Wall Street bankers and Hollywood celebrities. Other countries are beginning to impose tougher restrictions on its importation because they know we’ll just find another way if one method becomes too difficult or expensive due to international law enforcement efforts.
Cocaine is the second most popular illegal, recreational drug in America. In fact, it’s so prevalent that according to a study across all 50 states and Washington D.C., nearly half of high school graduates from 1979 have used cocaine recreationally at some point during their lifetime–a figure which reaches 20% for students graduating between 2005-2015. F
More than 20 million Americans have tried coke at least once in their life today as well. This is far higher compared to the rates of other countries with similar populations like Canada (2%), France (1%), and Italy (.4%).
The most lasting contribution made by these stars from TV series “Miami Vice” was not only an influx of heavy crime but also introduced our current language – now peppered with expressions such as “hooked up.
Is Someone You Love Using Slang for Cocaine?
Cocaine addiction is no joke, and withdrawing from it without help can be an excruciating experience. But with the trained medical staff at Coastal Detox, you’ll get all of your needs met: insurance coverage (depending on policy), a safe place to go through withdrawal, professional care by licensed therapists for any other issues that have been exacerbated by cocaine usage.
At Coastal Detox we understand how hard quitting cocaine can seem when going through withdrawal or recovery alone. That’s why our team offers comprehensive detox options so you don’t have to do this journey alone during any phase of your rehab process.
Contact our team to learn more about the options available for cocaine detox and addiction treatment.
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.
