10 Sober Activities To Do This Weekend

10 Sober Activities To Do This Weekend - Soba Recovery

Being an adult and trying to have a social life while sober can be intimidating. So often you hear, “Want to grab a drink?” or “We should meet up at the bar this weekend!” when trying to make plans with people, especially when they don’t know you are sober. Usually, the worst part is announcing your sobriety and hoping people don’t look at you differently.

If you are looking for something fun to do this week that doesn’t involve drugs or alcohol, we have you covered. Keep reading to learn our favorite sober activities.

Being Sober Doesn’t Have to Be Boring

Being sober and in recovery from substance abuse doesn’t mean you can’t have fun anymore. You don’t need substances to have a good time. It’s all about the way you frame situations in your mind and make the best of them. Having good people who support your sobriety and can be creative when planning an activity makes having fun even easier.

It’s also important to note that many activities that you did while you were using can still be done without using. You can attend concerts, shows, and events without drinking or using drugs and have the same amount of fun as you thought you were having before. Hanging with friends or going to grab dinner doesn’t need to include drinking.

By staying busy and having fun with yourself and friends, you end up helping your chances of not relapsing. When you are motivated and looking forward to things, you are less likely to turn back to substances.

Fun Sober Activities To Do

You could come up with a million activities, but sometimes things can start to feel redundant. Only some have the funds to go out on lavish weekend trips every month or treat themselves to weekly spa excursions, so coming up with unique and sometimes easy activities is the key.

You don’t want to overwhelm yourself with coming up with a new activity every day but will want to have go-to’s that never fail to bring you joy. You can do the following things while sober and still enjoy every second.

1. Dinner and a Movie

We know this is a classic, but you can truly never go wrong! You have two options here. Option one: Find a friend or a date and go out to your favorite restaurant, following it up with a new movie at the most comfortable theater in town.

Second option: order some delicious take-out and put something on the TV. Relax and enjoy the show from the comfort of your own home. There’s really nothing better.

2. Attend a Comedy Show

When struggling with addiction, it can become really dark and lonely as many people suffer from depression. Laughing can do wonders for your body when you are struggling, so finding a local comedy show when sober will only enhance the funny.

Order yourself a mocktail, grab an appetizer (if they offer one), and enjoy the different acts that perform. Who knows, comedy shows may be your new thing!

3. Go on a Hike

Getting outside and getting fresh air is good for your body and your brain. You will feel refreshed and rejuvenated after a nice walk or hike outside. Go to your favorite spot, take some photos along the way, and listen to your favorite music as you enjoy the outdoors.

4. Create Your Own Garden

Starting a garden could be very rewarding for people who have a green thumb. Not only does a lot of thought, time, and energy go into it, it will produce homegrown fruits, veggies, herbs, and flowers that you can use for months.

This activity might be something you work on daily that becomes a habit you love. Don’t be discouraged if, after your first season, your garden doesn’t produce as much as you’d like; it does take time!

5. Start a DIY Project

If there is any decor, furniture, or art that you want to add to your home, consider DIY-ing. Doing it yourself (DIY) puts your head and hands together to create something out of objects you likely have lying around the house.

Coming up with a project to do might take anywhere from a few hours to several weeks; it just depends on your commitment! You may even find your next hobby while trying out different DIYs.

6. Volunteer

If you want to feel fulfilled and useful with your time off on the weekends, consider looking for different volunteer opportunities in your community. Whether you pick up trash in the park or volunteer at an animal shelter, you will feel good doing it.

7. Catch Up on Some Reading

We all know that getting behind on reading can happen easily. Take some time this weekend to sit down and catch up on pieces and books you’ve wanted to read. Peace and quiet can be just as fun as a loud concert.

8. Get Crafty

Always wanted to learn how to paint or draw? Why not just start this weekend? Watch a couple of videos if you’d like, or just go at the canvas and don’t look back.

Arts and crafts can be a really therapeutic way to have fun. Plus, handmade gifts are always thoughtful, and learning an art skill can really come in handy.

9. Try a New Recipe

If you are getting bored of eating the same things, use the weekend to learn a new recipe that you have been dying to try. Get together all the ingredients you’ll need, play a podcast or listen to your favorite album, and prep everything.

10. Visit a Museum

Many museums are affordable to attend, and some are even free on certain days. Find a museum you’ve never been to and check it out this weekend. You may explore different exhibits and art collections and meet people along the way.

Find Community With Soba

Sober activities don’t always need to be planned out intensively to avoid alcohol. They can be simple and creative, bringing fun into your own home or community. If you are still searching for more of a sober-specific community, consider sober living with Soba Recovery Center of San Antonio, Texas. Sober living has been proven to be effective in maintaining sobriety.

If you are serious about staying sober, you should always be continuing your recovery journey. Soba Recovery can be a place where you build up a community and also seek help. Whatever you need, we want to provide for you. Reach out to a Soba representative to learn more about how we can help.

Sources:

Focus: Addiction: Relapse Prevention and the Five Rules of Recovery | NCBI

Depression | NIMH

What Did We Learn from Our Study on Sober Living Houses and Where Do We Go from Here? | NCBI

What Are the Signs of Substance Abuse?

Signs of Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a debilitating condition that impacts all facets of a person’s life. People who struggle with addiction often have difficulty maintaining relationships and keeping up with their responsibilities. Substance abuse can deter your life and make it difficult to get back on track.

If you suspect that a loved one is using substances, there are signs that you can look out for that might give you a better understanding of what’s going on. It can be difficult to ask if someone is struggling with addiction, but showing support and offering your help can make all the difference.

To learn more about the different signs and symptoms of substance abuse, continue reading on!

Understanding Addiction

Addiction is not a choice. It can happen to anyone, but many factors can heighten your chances of developing an addiction. Drug addiction does not steer clear of any type of person. Drug and alcohol abuse affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds.

People begin using substances for many different reasons. Whether they start using recreationally or prescription drugs, addiction can develop and can impact their entire life. You first build tolerances, then develop dependencies, patterns begin to form, and without noticing, you have become addicted to a substance.

Quitting substances and trying to become sober is not easy. Often, people who struggle with addiction need to seek out professional help to enter into recovery. This is where rehabilitation facilities come into play. They offer a variety of treatments for addiction so that every person there can find a treatment plan that is right for them.

Brain Chemistry and Addiction

When a person abuses drugs, they can change the chemistry of their brain and make themselves reliant on the drugs. The absence of the drugs can send out an alert to the body that something is wrong.

People can start to experience withdrawal symptoms without substances in their system because it feels like they are missing a part of themselves. The brain of an addict begins to rely on the effects that the substance has on them; without it, they feel they cannot properly function due to excessive cravings for substances.

Why Does Someone Use Substances?

Substance use disorder can happen to anyone. Addiction does not discriminate, but many factors can impact why certain people become addicted to substances. Someone might start recreationally and then end up becoming dependent. You might get prescribed pain medication and then find yourself unable to function without a pill.

Additionally, many people use substances as a way to escape. People struggling with mental illness, family stressors, social pressure, or toxic environments are more likely to seek out substances to self-medicate. Many people do not want to be using drugs or alcohol to feel better, but it might be the easiest way for them to feel like they are.

Biology and Genetics

Some people are more likely to become addicts due to their genetics. People with family members who struggle with substance abuse are also more likely to suffer from it. If you know that addiction seems to run in your family, it is in your best interest to steer clear of drugs and alcohol.

Environmental Influences

How a person is brought up and what situations they find themselves in can impact whether a person develops addiction or not. If you are raised around people who struggle with addiction or who have drugs and alcohol in the house, it is easier to fall into a similar lifestyle.

As much as many people hate to admit it, who you surround yourself with can impact your addiction journey. If you are around people dangerously using substances, it can be difficult to take yourself out of those situations. People who are exposed to drugs and alcohol at an early age tend to use it as well in the future,

Substance Abuse Signs and Symptoms

There are a variety of different substances that can be abused. Not everyone has the same addictions or experiences substance abuse the same way, but there can be some clear signs that addiction might be present. When someone is struggling with substance abuse, they will usually display physical, behavioral, and psychological symptoms.

While the following lists are not exhaustive, there are some symptoms that people with addiction develop across the board.

Physical Signs of Drug and Alcohol Abuse

When someone is struggling with substance abuse, they experience various physical symptoms. Their health and physical appearance can change significantly and rapidly over short periods, and they might look ill, exhausted, or strung out. You might notice a person experiencing extreme and sudden weight loss, poor hygiene, and erratic sleep patterns.

People using substances may also have poor coordination and might experience a decline in their mobility or control of their movements. You might see them stumbling, falling over, or unable to keep their bodies upright. In addition, hyperactivity is an indicator of the use of stimulants.

People struggling with addiction might slur their words, have red or bloodshot eyes, or experience dry, irritated, or scabbed skin. Many people will feel uncomfortable in their own skin but cannot stop using and get drug-free on their own. Even when sobriety is the best choice, it is not the easiest choice.

Behavioral Signs of Drug Use

People using drugs and alcohol will likely be more irritated than usual, especially when they cannot access their substances. Irritability, aggression, and mood swings might impact someone with an addiction.

Someone with substance abuse will also experience exhaustion, lethargy, lack of motivation, and dramatic changes in behavior. Lethargy is particularly common in users of sedatives, such as Valium or Xanax.

In addition, drug users might experience mood swings where they appear extremely depressed when unable to use and euphoria when they gain access to their substances. In extreme cases, they may experience blackouts due to withdrawals.

Additionally, someone might begin to stop showing up for their responsibilities, such as work, school, or in their own home. They might stop talking with their group of friends or family or begin hanging out in new places with new people. They may also show signs of financial problems and behavioral changes related to money, such as impulsive spending.

The more dangerous behaviors a person exhibits, the more likely they have gotten themselves into something too much for them to truly handle.

Psychological Symptoms

Using drugs and alcohol can lead to changes in your psyche as well. People may begin to experience intense mood swings and develop other mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Someone using may appear anxious or paranoid without real reason, showcasing erratic behavior that can lead to danger.

Some drugs, particularly hallucinogens like LSD, can even lead a person to experience hallucinations and delusions. These symptoms can harm an individual as they put themselves in dangerous locations or begin to question their reality.

Asking for help when unsure of what is happening is almost impossible. Where do you even start if you don’t understand how you ended up somewhere? It is also extremely scary to open up about your struggles when you are constantly doubting yourself and believing you don’t deserve to get help.

How Can You Help?

Keeping an eye out for all of your loved ones is an impossible task. However, if you notice that something is seemingly off with someone’s behavior or health, the first thing you’ll want to do is help. Asking if someone is okay can be off-putting to someone who is scared to disappoint people with their addiction.

Instead of telling a person you know that they have substance abuse, start by offering any support necessary to get them healthy. Let your loved one know that you love them and want the best for them, no matter what stands in the way.

Knowing that there is a support system behind you is extremely beneficial for someone trying to enter into recovery from substance abuse. Offering to take someone to and from meetings, take care of household tasks while someone is away at an inpatient program, or bring over some warm and comforting meals is a great place to start.

Seeking Treatment

Addiction is a mental health disorder. When left unchecked, and can wreak havoc on a person’s behavioral health. That’s why getting help from a mental health professional is so essential.

Seeking out a treatment program will be the best option for someone struggling with addiction. It is often very difficult to recover from addiction without the help of a medical professional specializing in addiction treatment. Withdrawals can be deadly if they aren’t properly treated, and there is a high risk of relapse when you try to detox on your own.

At Soba Recovery Center in San Antonio, Texas, you don’t have to be alone throughout your recovery process. From detoxification programs to outpatient treatment services, we have it all. Not only do we come up with a personalized treatment plan for you, but we work with you to ensure you get the most out of your treatment.

Reach out to a Soba representative today and learn more about the treatment options available. You or a loved one could be getting help sooner than you think, so don’t hesitate to reach out.

Sources:

Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Warning Signs of Substance and Alcohol Use Disorder | Indian Health Service

Warning Signs of Drug Abuse | Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Drug and Alcohol Addiction: What Is Detox?

Drug and Alcohol Addiction: What Is Detox?

If you or a loved one are addicted to drugs or alcohol, you know just how difficult getting sober can be. The process of getting sober requires a lot of support and effort. It’s not easy to do, let alone on your own.

The first step towards recovery is admitting that you need help. Often, the second step is detoxification. Detoxification is also known as withdrawal treatment, and the goal is to get you off a substance at a safe pace.

To learn more about detoxing from alcohol and drug addiction, keep reading.

What Is Detoxification?

Detoxification is when your body rids itself of drugs or alcohol after stopping your use of substances and starting a treatment program. Many people attempt to enter into detoxification on their own, but it is not an easy process and can be very dangerous. Many people become very ill during the detoxification process, making it easy to relapse into alcohol or drug abuse.

Depending on the substances you are detoxing from, your process might look different than someone else’s. Different drugs, how long you have been using, and other health-related factors, might influence how detoxing goes.

The main goal of monitored detoxification is to ensure that a person is safe and receiving proper treatment as their body goes through withdrawals. Entering into a rehabilitation facility that provides monitored and medically-assisted detoxifications can ensure that you are taken care of properly by healthcare providers specializing in substance abuse recovery.

What Are Withdrawals?

Withdrawals happen after you begin to rid your body of substances it is used to. Drugs and alcohol use can alter the chemistry in your brain and cause you to become dependent on the substance. You will have tricked yourself into thinking that you need the substance to function, and it’s partly true.

When you become dependent on a drug or on alcohol, your body believes it needs it to feel “normal.” When you aren’t using, you will begin to feel severe withdrawal symptoms from that substance. Not only are these symptoms painful, but they can be debilitating.

The quickest fix to stop these symptoms is to use again, but it’s not what you actually need if you are looking to recover from substance use disorder. Drug and alcohol withdrawals are dangerous when they aren’t monitored properly at a treatment center.

Some common symptoms of withdrawal are:

  • Nausea
  • High blood pressure
  • Weight loss
  • Tremors
  • Paranoia
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings

The Dangers of Detoxing At-Home

A drug detox or alcohol detox at home instead of within an organized detox program can seem like it’s an easier and less expensive way to get help, but it is not recommended that you try it yourself. Quitting “cold turkey” or trying different home remedies can be potentially fatal, depending on the severity of your addiction and what assistance you require.

If you or a loved one are struggling with dependence on alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines or have co-occurring mental health disorders on top of addiction, medically supervised detox is almost required. The side effects of detoxing these substances are potentially life-threatening, and there is a high risk of relapsing or developing additional health problems.

When you are at home, you can’t receive life-saving treatment if you need it. You will find it difficult to stay sober, even if the symptoms aren’t that bad, simply by being unsupervised in your own space. If you can enter a detoxification program at a rehabilitation facility, we highly recommend you do so.

High-Risk Symptoms

While some symptoms of withdrawal and the detoxification process might seem manageable on their own, a few can regularly occur and create issues. For example, if you are a long-term user of methamphetamines or alcohol, the withdrawal symptoms you may experience will likely be more severe than someone trying to stop using cannabis after only a few weeks.

Some high-risk symptoms that you might encounter if you attempt to detoxify at home without medical advice are:

  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions
  • Seizures
  • Fever
  • Severe agitation
  • Delirium

What Is Medically-Assisted Detoxification?

A medically-assisted detoxification, also known as inpatient detox, will provide a patient with around-the-clock care and support during their toughest times. During these treatment services, you will be monitored to stay as safe as possible while experiencing withdrawal from a certain type of substance.

This allows medical professionals to administer proper medication to you on an as-needed basis during the detox process. Some detoxes from certain substances require medication to help subdue some of the withdrawal symptoms.

Depending on how long and severe your addiction is, you may need these medications for longer or shorter than other people. Having medical personnel there to administer the medication, control the dosages, and watch your symptoms should put you at ease.

Going through detoxification alone is scary and intimidating, yet rehab often scares people away. While getting help may not be what you want, you know it’s what you need. We understand that addiction is not a choice and that sometimes you can feel really lost.

It is important to know that while that may be true, it is a choice to get better. And it is one of the best choices you can make for yourself.

The Detoxification Process

Detoxification is scary, but choosing to enter detoxification can be scarier. If you want to go through detox, you have to admit to yourself that you have a problem that needs outside help. The first thing to know is that no one will judge you for your addiction, especially not for seeking help.

After you decide that a detoxification program is right for you, there will be a few steps you go through to complete the process.

Evaluation

Before you proceed with the detoxification process, the rehab center staff will conduct a few tests to better understand your needs. They will determine what substances are in your system, how long you have been using them, any symptoms or health concerns that might be related to your substance use, and if you have co-occurring mental health disorders.

This helps them decide what kind of treatment and medication you will need. From the moment that you enter a rehab facility, you are going to be monitored. This may seem invasive at first, but all the information gathered by the staff will result in a comprehensive treatment plan that is specialized for your needs. The more information you can provide them, the better your detoxification journey will be.

Stabilization

After you have undergone the intake process, you will begin the actual detoxification process. The medical staff monitors this, and you are given the necessary treatment. You might require addiction prevention medications for only a few days or weeks until you can be considered stable.

The journey may change as you undergo the detox, but any choices made by the people in charge of keeping you safe will be essential. This part of the process ensures that the treatment is working, there aren’t any complications, and that you are as comfortable as possible. All these things work together to help you experience detox in the easiest way possible.

Entering Treatment

The entire time you are undergoing detoxification, there is a team behind you crafting a treatment plan specifically for you. Detox deals with your physical dependency on drugs but doesn’t quite yet get to the psychological part. While detox helps control your symptoms and rid your body of substances, that is only the first step toward recovery.

A treatment plan will help you focus on goals for your addiction recovery. Your addiction treatment team will work with you to create a plan that is useful to you and more likely to be sustained. They take into consideration your environment and history and craft a plan that is specifically tailored to you.

Seeking Help With Soba

Getting help can be overwhelming. Especially if you think you are alone and are anxious to ask for help. At Soba Recovery Center in San Antonio, Texas, you never have to feel alone throughout your recovery journey. With a safe and successful detoxification program, we can help start you off strong and follow through with treatment plans specific to you.

With inpatient and outpatient treatment services, you can find an option that is right for you and your addiction recovery with inpatient and outpatient treatment services. You will undergo both individual and group therapy, form a community, and feel seen by your peers. We can offer you sober living situations if you need a safe environment post-treatment that encourages sobriety and happiness.

Reach out to a Soba representative to learn more about how you can get started with the detoxification program today!

Sources:

The Addicted Human Brain: Insights From Imaging Studies | NCBI

Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorders | NIMH

Pharmacological Strategies For Detoxification | NCBi

Can You Go to Rehab for Depression?

Can You Go to Rehab for Depression?

Most people think therapy and medication are the only ways to treat depression, along with simply waiting until things start to look up. Though rehab is frequently associated with drug and alcohol abuse, rehab for depression is also available. Plus, if you are already struggling with substance abuse, getting treatment for your depression will intertwine with your treatment plan.

To learn more about rehab for depression and when you should seek it out, keep reading!

What Is Depression?

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses in the United States. This mental health disorder has various forms, including postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, major depressive disorder, and substance-induced depression. Treating depression is different for everyone because everyone experiences it in their own unique way.

Some common symptoms of depression are:

    • Persistent feelings of sadness and emptiness
    • Low self-esteem
    • Irritability and frustration
    • Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
    • Unplanned weight changes
    • Loss of interest in activities
    • Lack of energy and increased feelings of fatigue
    • Thoughts of suicide

Seeking help in a mental health crisis can be very intimidating because there can be a lot of guilt surrounding the disease. It can feel like you are being dramatic about your issues or that they aren’t as serious as you feel they are, but we are here to tell you that’s not true. Depression is a silent killer that can completely disrupt your life.

What Is Rehab for Depression?

Rehab for depression is the next step after trying individual therapy and group therapy, support groups, and medication as treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often recommended for those dealing with mental health conditions like depression.

Rehab offers a more in-depth and monitored treatment for mental health issues like major depression. Many rehabilitation centers for depression will offer inpatient treatment programs where you can stay in the center and receive 24/7 care for even the most persistent types of depression.

Many rehabs that treat depression also treat co-occurring disorders, which include substance abuse with depression. Because these two so often go hand-in-hand, simultaneously treating them is essential to see improvements from effective treatment.

When Should You Go to Rehab for Depression?

If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, you should consider entering a rehab center. Getting help from an experienced treatment team can be the thing that changes the trajectory of your life and gets you back to feeling like yourself.

A few signs might help shed light on the fact that you need to seek help.

1. Self-Medicating Frequently

People who struggle with depression often find that medication, therapy sessions, or support groups simply don’t cut it. Many people will turn to self-medication if these methods don’t seem to offer results. Coping by using substances can seem to alleviate symptoms of depression, but they only make them harder to overcome.

When you are depressed, you lack dopamine and serotonin in your brain, making it more difficult to feel any feelings of happiness. Some drugs and alcohol can trick your brain into feeling a rush of happiness.

This itself can become addicting, leading to the overusing of substances. In addition, many young adults and older adults self-medicate by developing eating disorders to gain more control over their lives.

If you’re self-medicating through unhealthy coping methods, an evaluation from a mental health professional can help. In many cases, professional intervention is necessary to help you break free from the spiral of addiction and move toward stability.

2. You’re Struggling in Your Relationships

Personality changes are very common when you struggle with depression. As a result, many stressors can add to your personal relationships as you suffer from the disease, decreasing your overall wellness. You may lose interest in hobbies you once shared with friends, and not be able to maintain romantic relationships, both old or new, which can result in frustration from your friends and family members.

Many people begin to feel isolated or lonely, despite whoever is around them during this time. In turn, they push people away and can damage bonds with people that care about them. Treatment is a way to show your loved ones that you are trying to get better, and sometimes being away from them can alleviate the guilt you feel for neglecting those relationships.

3. Having a Hard Time at Work or School

Whether you love or hate your job or school, depression only makes things harder. You might find that you are missing deadlines, not following up with emails, or forgetting tasks you must complete.

It might become apparent if you aren’t performing as well as you used to or can’t keep up with your peers. This could deter your life’s trajectory because you can miss great opportunities.

People who suffer from depression can still maintain jobs, but the quality of work they put in or the effort they can give will show. If you or a loved one has lost their job or is falling behind in school work, rehab for depression might pull them out of the darkness.

4. Feeling Like a Failure in Everyday Activities

When you suffer from depression, taking care of yourself and everyday tasks can feel overwhelming. If you have noticed that you cannot keep up with hygiene or chores, treatment might be a good option for you.

By leaving your normal environment and getting involved in a new daily routine at a depression treatment center, you might begin to feel like yourself again. Sometimes being in one spot with so much negative energy can make it difficult to get better. Leaving that space and starting fresh might be just what you need.

5. Thoughts of Suicide

Depression is a serious mental illness. If you or a loved one are beginning to feel suicidal or like you want to harm yourself, please seek immediate help. You can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 to talk with them about what you are feeling.

Reaching out to someone you trust and asking for help is never the wrong answer, even though it might be scary. People love you and want to see you getting better, so don’t hesitate to reach out. You are not a burden.

Getting Help With Soba

People who struggle with both depression and substance use disorder might find Soba Recovery Center of San Antonio, Texas, a great place to start. We develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on both aspects of your mental health. We understand that you can’t treat one disorder without treating the other.

From inpatient to outpatient services, we have treatment options that will be right for you. You don’t have to wait a minute longer before seeking help for your depression. You can reach out to a Soba representative to talk more about how we might be able to help you on your path to recovery.

Sources:

Depression | NIMH

Self‐medication With Alcohol Or Drugs For Mood And Anxiety Disorders: A Narrative Review Of The Epidemiological Literature | NCBI

Depression and Everyday Social Activity, Belonging, and Well-Being | NCBI

Signs & Symptoms of Adderall Addiction

Signs & Symptoms of Adderall Addiction

Anyone can develop an Adderall addiction at any point in their life, though teens, college students, and young adults are the most affected. It has a high potential for addiction even though it is prescribed to people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently.

Without proper management, this prescription drug use can become recreational and lead to Adderall addiction. Spotting the signs of Adderall addiction can help you or your loved ones seek substance use disorder treatment before the use becomes out of control.

Adderall can have negative effects on your physical and mental health. To learn more about how to spot the signs and symptoms of Adderall addiction, keep reading.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a brand-name prescription amphetamine usually prescribed to people with ADHD or narcolepsy. It is one of the most commonly used prescription stimulants and also happens to be one of the most abused drugs out there.

Not everyone who uses it will develop an addiction; the people who begin to take this stimulant medication unprescribed way are at a high risk of developing an addiction. Adderall increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the central nervous system.

This impacts how the brain responds to events, like paying attention and keeping up with outside stimuli without being overwhelmed. It also creates a rewarding effect, usually connected to completing tasks or overcoming obstacles.

People that develop a drug addiction to Adderall often feel a mental fog when they are not using it (one of many potential Adderall withdrawal symptoms). Adderall is needed to stay alert and productive; without it, it can feel like you cannot function. It is labeled as a schedule II controlled substance because of the high risk it poses to substance abuse and addiction.

What Are the Effects of Adderall?

People that are prescribed Adderall usually use it to help them focus and stay on task. People with ADHD often struggle with performing tasks in an organized way, and Adderall can help with this.

Some of the effects that might be experienced right after Adderall use are:

  • A desire to work
  • Increased heart rate
  • Feeling social
  • Talkative
  • Hyperactivity
  • Impatience or anxiety

Adderall Dependence vs. Adderall Addiction

You might develop an Adderall dependence without developing an Adderall addiction. If you are prescribed Adderall to help treat ADHD, your body will become dependent on the drug due to the interaction of chemicals in your body.

At this point, you will not have a psychological dependence on the drug; you just need it to treat your condition. Adderall addiction is when a person becomes physically or psychologically reliant on the drug.

You may find it difficult to cope without the drug and begin to think about using it all the time. Soon this drug has consumed your life, and you’re not sure when it even happened.

People who experience Adderall misuse are more likely to run out of their prescription faster than they should and will go to great lengths to get ahold of the drug. You will begin to see changes in a person who is addicted to Adderall, both physically and mentally.

What Are the Symptoms of Adderall Addiction?

Adderall often produces feelings of confidence and concentration, making this a drug used by many people. It can also be an appetite suppressant which can be dangerous for people who suffer from eating disorders.

It is abused for a multitude of reasons, including:

  • Studying
  • Staying awake
  • Weight loss
  • Athletic performance
  • Heightened experience

When you begin to misuse Adderall, symptoms may give it away that you might be struggling. Though many people who abuse Adderall can appear to be motivated individuals who are busy as can be.

Recognizing the signs and speaking up is the best way to get addiction treatment.

Physical

People who are suffering from Adderall addiction might display several physical symptoms. People who misuse Adderall experience the following physical symptoms:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Aggression
  • Exhaustion
  • Decline in hygiene
  • Impulse behaviors
  • Changes in personality
  • Sleeping for long periods
  • Convulsions
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Nausea
  • Insomnia
  • Dry mouth
  • Loss of strength
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Twitching
  • Peeling Skin
  • Constipation
  • Urge to urinate

It might not be apparent right away that someone is misusing Adderall, so if you know a friend is prescribed it, don’t be afraid to check in if you think there could be drug abuse. Sometimes these side effects happen behind closed doors, and it can be difficult to see enough to know better.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and are actively using Adderall, whether prescribed or not, you should contact a recovery treatment center like Soba Recovery Center as soon as possible.

Mental

Adderall has a direct impact on your mind and mental state. It can help you stay focused and give you more energy to socialize and find inspiration, but misuse leads to dangerous mental effects.

Some mental effects that Adderall addiction can have on someone are:

  • Short-term memory loss
  • Over-working
  • Disorientation
  • Confusion
  • Mania
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia or psychosis
  • Hallucinations

While there can be many benefits to prescribed Adderall that is being used properly, the side effects of its misuse are not to be taken lightly.

Social

When you begin to misuse Adderall, it might become apparent in social settings. Not just out in public but also in small settings with friends and family. Paying attention to the following symptoms might allow you to recognize Adderall addiction in someone you love.

Some social symptoms of Adderall addiction are:

  • Intense excitement
  • Social withdrawal
  • Being overly talkative
  • Secretive behavior
  • Struggling financially
  • Problems within relationships

Signs Someone Is Struggling With Adderall Addiction

When someone is struggling with Adderall addiction, there are signs that you can look out for to try to get them help. While side effects and symptoms play into and help identify the addiction, there are signs directly related to Adderall that can be pretty common.

Increasing Dosage

People sliding into Adderall addiction will begin to increase their dosage, regardless of a doctor’s instruction. They will begin to feel that they need more of the drug to feel its effects. By increasing the dosage, a person is only feeding into the addiction and making it harder for their body to cope and adjust.

Recognizing the Harm

People that are struggling with addiction to Adderall might be able to recognize that they are struggling but use it despite that knowledge. If a person can understand that they are causing harm to themselves but make no effort to make a change, they might not be fully in control of their actions.

Spending Time and Money

For someone struggling, they will find no problem in spending hours of their day trying to figure out how they will get their hands on Adderall. They won’t even think twice about paying for it or putting a lot of their money towards it because it is considered a necessity.

Neglecting Other Activities

Adderall addiction can really consume your life. You will begin to rearrange your schedule around getting Adderall and think about the next time you can use it.

You might choose to use Adderall over going out with your friends or spending money on groceries, pushing you further into unhealthy self-isolation.

You might begin to notice that you cannot finish work without taking Adderall, and not because it will just help you focus more. Without it in your body, you can begin to suffer from withdrawal symptoms, making focusing and paying attention even more difficult.

Suffering Withdrawal Symptoms

People who are addicted to Adderall will likely suffer withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using or don’t use it for a few days. This makes quitting on your own very difficult.

Sometimes entering a detoxification program at a recovery center is the best way to come off it. Coming off of it in a controlled environment can be ideal for someone struggling with Adderall addiction.

People who stop using Adderall and suffer from withdrawal symptoms often experience:

  • Fatigue
  • Lack of concentration
  • A slow heartbeat
  • Mental fog
  • Confusion

How To Get Help

Adderall addiction is nothing to joke about. Just because someone you know may have it prescribed doesn’t mean you should consider getting your hands on it. When used correctly, Adderall can do its intended job and help people struggling with ADHD. When misused, it can be a very difficult drug to come off of.

Seeking treatment with Soba Recovery Center in San Antonio, Texas, is one way to fight Adderall addiction. We offer detox services that provide you with around-the-clock care, behavioral therapy, and assistance as you go through the cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is not easy, but it is completely worth it.

You can enter inpatient or outpatient Adderall addiction treatment programs to continue working through your addiction. Becoming sober is only part of working through your addiction, and relapses happen.

Find what works best for you, and know that you aren’t alone. Reach out to a Soba representative to talk more about our services and how we can get you help today!

Sources:

Adderall Abuse On The Rise Among Young Adults, Johns Hopkins Study Suggests | Johns Hopkins University

Adderall Addiction Signs and Symptoms | Hazelden Betty Ford

Adderall (CII) | FDA

Potential Adverse Effects of Amphetamine Treatment on Brain and Behavior: A Review | NCBI

Meditation for Addiction: Your Complete Guide

Meditation for Addiction: Your Complete Guide

If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, you know just how difficult it can be to pull yourself out of such a dark place. You can begin to feel lonely, ashamed, and like you don’t have control over yourself or your future.

Seeking out addiction treatment is always a great step you can take toward recovery, but it requires a commitment to putting in the work to improve your mental health and well-being.

Many people entering recovery will need to find ways to keep themselves focused on their goals. There are plenty of groups and activities that you can become a part of to build community and get support in your substance abuse treatment and recovery process.

Meditation is both an activity and a method that you can participate in to help you regain self-control, empowerment, and confidence in yourself. Many people with substance use disorders use meditation to control their negative thoughts, put them back on the right track, and aid in relapse prevention.

Keep reading to learn more about meditation and how it can help those who struggle with addiction!

What Is Meditation?

Meditation is a practice and technique that involves connecting the mind and body to feel more at peace within yourself. Those who struggle with substance abuse and alcohol addiction may find this concept helpful. It can be difficult to control your actions even when you know that substance dependency is hurting you.

Meditation often involves a seated, cross-legged pose and deep breathing. White noise or light music can play in the background, but it likely looks different for everyone.

It’s often compared to yoga for its ability to reduce stress and create feelings of peace, but meditation is much less physically involved. You can practice meditation alone or in a group setting with guided meditation.

Types of Meditation

There are different meditation techniques you can try to find the right fit. The ultimate goal is to synchronize the mind and body to become more attuned to one another.

The idea is, especially with addiction, that you will begin to have more control over what you should actually be doing for yourself and learn how to calm yourself down during heightened situations in daily life.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness meditation is one of the simplest and most common forms of meditation that you can practice. This is great for beginners as it teaches you to become more aware of your thoughts and surroundings in the present moment.

Here a few ways to engage in mindfulness:

  • Sit up straight, whether in a stable chair or cross-legged on the ground. Place your hands palm-down on your knees. Close your eyes.
  • Sit quietly and as still as you can. Allow every thought you have to go in and out of your mind, and don’t think too critically about how they make you feel.
  • If you’d like to open your eyes, stare a few feet in front of your body and fixate on an object on the ground. It could even be a crack in the floorboard.
  • Once you feel yourself no longer focusing on your thoughts but instead just concentrating on the object in front of you or your breathing, you are on the right path.

Mindfulness can be practiced anywhere and is the basis for many other meditation techniques. Mindfulness-based meditation is particularly useful for raising self-awareness and learning to let go of intrusive thoughts and cravings.

Breathing

Breathing meditation is what mindfulness meditation can delve into. You often do breathing meditation once you have gone through the mindfulness process.

To practice breathing meditation:

  • Sit in the same position you were sitting in during your mindfulness meditation.
  • You are going to want to concentrate on your breath. This involves inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly.
  • You should work on relaxing your muscles, focusing solely on your breathing. Pay attention to how it feels to have air in and out of your nostrils.
  • If you feel yourself becoming distracted, thinking about things that you shouldn’t be, and forgetting about your purpose of doing this meditation, return to your breathing.

Both breathing and mindfulness meditation are very popular techniques practiced in addiction recovery centers. Breathing meditation sessions are great for managing your heart rate, which can help with stress reduction — especially when practiced with a trained healthcare professional.

Water

There are other meditation techniques that you can practice at home. The water method might not be used while inpatient, but it can be very influential at home. Water has a way of making you feel grounded and light at the same time.

This method might take a bit more time and resources to do correctly, as you will need a bathtub or access to a body of water.

  • First, you will run a warm bath. You can mix bath salts or oils into the water and set up a few aroma candles around the tub.
  • Once the tub is full, you will turn off the tap. However, you will still allow small drops of warm water to drip into the tub.
  • Get comfortable in the bathtub and begin to focus on your breathing. Use the breathing meditation techniques from above. If you start to stray, focus on the sound of dripping water to help you ground yourself.

Not only is this technique a great way to practice meditation for addiction recovery, but a warm bath can do wonders for a person dealing with the trauma and struggles that substance abuse brings.

Movement

You don’t always have to be at home or sit still to meditate. A technique involves movement during meditation to immerse yourself in the world around you. This method prefers an outdoor space surrounded by nature for you to meditate in.

  • Find a place that brings you happiness, whether it’s your garden, a lake nearby, or nature trails down the street.
  • However you choose to move is up to you. You could walk, run, ride a bike, or swim. Focus on the movements that you are doing that are propelling you forward.
  • Every time you push off the ground, cup water in your hands to push you forward, or push against your bike pedals, imagine negative energy leaving your body and positive energy flowing through.

The purpose of movement meditation is to focus on how all of the processes in your body work together. If you have a 15-minute walk to an appointment or bus stop, use this time to meditate!

How Does Meditation Help With Addiction?

So what exactly is the connection between meditation and addiction? It has to do with how you can learn to improve the quality of your life with just yourself and your willpower. Many people with addiction struggle with motivation or believing in their ability to enter into recovery. Meditation is a technique that you can do on your own with little to no tools needed.

Addiction recovery relies on a balance between physical, mental, and spiritual health. Meditation actually improves all three. A study done in 2005 found that meditators had more activity within the prefrontal cortex and more neural density. This meant that meditation was able to stimulate and train the brain to feel happy without the use of substances.

Reduce Stress

Meditation has also been linked to reducing stress and anxiety. People with drug addiction undergo more stress than the normal person.

The stress of dealing with cravings, using and putting your life at risk, and disappointing people around you can put a toll on your body. It can also spiral you into even more anxiety — quite the double-edged sword.

Meditation’s purpose is to quiet the mind and allow for focusing on the moment you are present in. This can be used to help manage cravings and triggers. If you feel overwhelmed by a thought, trigger, or craving, practicing meditation can help you to recenter and make a thoughtful choice on how to proceed.

Boost Mood

Meditation is also known to boost your mood and keep you in a more positive place. As you practice allowing more positive thoughts in and letting the negative thoughts escape, you make more space for your happiness. By allowing yourself to feel more of that positive energy, you are setting yourself up for success.

You may begin to feel happier the more you meditate, more at peace, intuitive, creative, and independent. It is a great way to learn how to redirect the energy that you are feeling.

Improve Sleep

Struggling with falling asleep and staying asleep is something many people in recovery suffer from. Having impulsive thoughts, cravings, and anxiety throughout your day can result in exhaustion. You might feel like you are constantly fighting with yourself to stay sober, and while we applaud you for it, we know how hard it can be.

Meditation is meant to bring peace of mind and teach you how to center yourself. You can learn to remain calm and collected in instances of high stress. Meditation teaches you how to become one with your surroundings and make intuitive decisions.

Meditation allows you to relax more and allow yourself the calm that sleep can bring, setting your racing mind to sleep as well.

Tips on Meditation for Addiction

When you are beginning your journey with meditation to help you with your addiction, there are practices you can do to help keep you on track. At first, you might struggle a bit to stay focused on being unfocused on negative thoughts and feelings.

Through practice and dedication, you will think meditation is becoming easier and more of a second nature to you.

Stick to a Consistent Schedule

Something that is known to be useful when struggling with addiction and trying to enter into recovery is sticking to a schedule. You will want to set boundaries and goals each day, followed up with an idea of what every minute of your day will look like. It might seem intense, but it can be very helpful.

When you have accounted for all your time in a day, it’s more difficult to stray off. The same goes for meditation!

If you set a time of day, every day, that you practice 15 to 30 minutes of meditation, you will begin to see improvements. It helps to create a habit, and your body will realize when it’s time to meditate before too long.

You’ll see more of the health benefits of meditation when you practice with greater consistency.

Dedicate a Space for Meditation

Having a quiet, clean, and comfortable space for meditation will also help you stick to it. Before long, you will want to spend time in this space and work on yourself.

The peacefulness of your meditation space should be comforting and enticing. You will know that your energy is shifting when you enter your meditation space, which is the goal!

Keep a Journal

Whenever you have a thought or feeling during meditation, you should be writing it down. Maybe it doesn’t fully make sense to you yet or hasn’t exactly impacted your life, but you never know when it could come in handy.

Having a journal dedicated to your meditative journey can also show the progress you are making. You might feel empowered by the strides you have made, and seeing it all play out in one location should only motivate you to continue on

your journey.

Find Community

Practicing meditation during an inpatient or outpatient session with a treatment program group of other people can help break you out of your shell. You might feel lost or like you don’t know where to start, but with guided group meditation, you can better understand your goals.

Talking to others about their journey with addiction and meditation might resonate with you and push you to practice more. You can also join meditation groups that aren’t specific to your addiction, but the parallels and commonalities you might pull from recovery groups might surprise you!

Community is everything when it comes to addiction recovery.

Find Help With Soba Recovery Center

You don’t have to look any further to find a recovery center that offers meditation practices, Soba Recovery Center in San Antonio has you covered. Soba offers yoga, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and meditation to help relax your muscles, build trust within yourself, and set you up for success in your recovery.

The road to recovery may be long and bumpy, but we here at Soba have your best interests in mind.

To learn more about how Soba Recovery Center could benefit you or a loved one, reach out to a Soba representative!

Sources:

How Meditation Can Reshape Our Brains: Sara Lazar at TEDxCambridge 2011 | Harvard University

Meditative Therapies for Reducing Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials | NCBI

Can Meditation Treat Insomnia? | Sleep Foundation

Opioid Addiction: Signs and What To Look For

Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction is a chronic disease that can negatively affect you physically, mentally, and socially. It’s a very difficult addiction to overcome, and it doesn’t always happen by simply experimenting with drugs. Opioids can be prescribed to you for pain after surgeries or accidents and cause problems from there.

When you or a loved one are struggling with opioid addiction, there are many signs to look out for that signify a struggle. It is important to be aware of the signs so that you can support your loved ones with opioid addiction efficiently and effectively.

Keep reading to learn more about the signs of opioid addiction and how to get help.

What Is Opioid Addiction?

Opioid addiction, or opioid use disorder (OUD), is characterized by the constant need to use opioids to function throughout the day, regardless of any negative outcomes. It is classified as a disease and substance use disorder and can form from various reasons and influences.

People who struggle with opioid addiction will have a strong urge to use opioids even when they are no longer needed because they have developed the need for the additional endorphins in their bodies. These individuals may need higher doses to achieve the same effects, which can result in drug overdoses.

Opioids are prescription drugs that are primarily used as pain relievers or painkillers. Individuals with chronic pain may be prescribed opioids — however, the constant nature of their pain can lead to eventual drug abuse.

Prescription opioid abuse can eventually turn into other types of drug addiction, especially since prescriptions are so closely monitored for signs of opioid misuse. Not everyone becomes addicted to opioids if prescribed, but they are dangerous drugs that should be closely monitored to avoid dependency.

Examples of prescription opioid medications include:

  • Oxycodone (OxyContin)
  • Fentanyl
  • Methadone
  • Buprenorphine
  • Codeine
  • Hydrocodone

Another type of opioid, heroin, is commonly used as a street drug. Heroin is a dangerous substance that can lead to increased drug abuse and overdose due to the unregulated nature of its production.

What Causes Opioid Addiction?

Many factors can lead a person to opioid addiction. Environmental, societal, and genetics can play a role in developing opioid addiction. However, if they never try opioids, it’s unlikely that the addiction will develop.

People with family members who struggle with addiction, both generally and to opioids, are at a higher risk of developing OUD. If you grew up in a house where opioids were abused or in a community where opioid addiction was a problem, you might be more likely to try them and develop an opioid drug addiction.

Additionally, people who struggle with poverty, mental health issues, trauma, or other substance abuse disorders are more likely to try opioids and become addicted. Opiates aren’t often the first drug someone tries, but many people make it there eventually.

People are still given opioids after surgeries, injuries, or accidents. This could be very dangerous if you are predisposed to addiction or have a family history of drug abuse. You should let our doctor know about your connection to addiction before allowing yourself to be prescribed opioids.

Symptoms of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

If you are worried that someone in your life is struggling with OUD, you should consider some of the following signs. Opioid addiction has physical and mental symptoms, economically and socially. By recognizing when someone is struggling, you may be able to help get them out of their negative cycle and avoid opioid overdose.

Physical and mental signs

Opioids can really take a toll on your body and mind. A person struggling with opioid addiction may stop acting like their normal self, and their appearance might also shift. You may notice that their behavior becomes more irritable and unpredictable. You might not feel as safe as you used to due to outbursts.

Some signs to look out for are:

Physical

  • Weight loss
  • Poor hygiene
  • Vomiting and diarrhea more frequently
  • Lack of coordination and motor skills
  • Scabs or puncture wounds

Mental

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feeling detached
  • Erratic behavior
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Emotional mood swings
  • Irritability and aggression

If you know someone suffering from opioid addiction, you may have noticed signs of opioid withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms include watery eyes, inability to sleep, anxiety, nausea and vomiting, and stomach cramping.

Some individuals with opioid addictions may also carry naloxone or naltrexone, opioid-reversing medications designed to prevent overdose deaths. Overdoses are more common in individuals who also abuse benzodiazepines, like Xanax, which are nervous system depressants.

Economic and Social Signs

Opioid addiction also impacts how a person behaves in social settings and impacts their finances. Maintaining any kind of addiction can be very expensive. On top of it being expensive, it can be difficult to hold down a job during this period, making it more difficult to obtain the drugs. However, many people will put finding a way to get drugs over their own health and safety.

Some economic and social signs to look out for are:

Economic

  • Asking for money more frequently
  • Not being able to hold down a job
  • Stealing from family or friends

Social

  • Avoiding family and friends
  • Not showing up for work
  • Lying to friends and family
  • Lying to doctors about pain levels
  • Hanging around with a new group of people

How To Prevent OUD

Never taking an opioid is the most straightforward way to avoid developing opioid use disorder. However, some people will still have to take prescription opioids for their pain relief, and there are ways to avoid developing an addiction to your prescription.

For starters, you will want to take the medication exactly how it is prescribed and have someone else hold you accountable for it. If it helps, you can have someone you trust to be in charge of your medication and help to administer them to you when you need them.

In many cases, you can ask what your other options would be for pain management. Being upfront with your doctor and other healthcare providers about any addiction concerns will help you devise a plan on how to take them properly.

If you notice signs of opioid addiction in yourself or a loved one, recognizing the risks and accepting treatment is the first step in your path to recovery. Spending some time in a medication-assisted treatment facility is better than spending the night in an emergency department.

If inpatient treatment is too much of a time commitment, there are several outpatientopioid treatment centers as well.

If you feel like you are struggling but don’t have a support system, you may want to call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s helpline. The SAMHSA helpline can help direct you to human services resources, medical providers, and treatment centers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also have a wide selection of online resources and prevention techniques to help you navigate your journey with awareness.

Treating Opioid Addiction at Soba Recovery

If you are struggling with opioid addiction, there is hope for you to enter into recovery. Many people in your life want to support you, and Soba Recovery Center in San Antonio, Texas, is also here to help. Through multiple forms of treatment, like inpatient care, detoxification services, medically-assisted treatments (MAT), and sober living situations, you are supported throughout your time with Soba.

Our trained professional staff is here to create an individual treatment plan that works to treat your specific needs. Everyone struggles with addiction in their own way, but there is always a path to take to recovery.

Reach out today to a Soba representative and learn more about how we can help you or your loved one battle opioid addiction and get back to feeling like themselves.

Sources:

Opioid Addiction | NCBI Bookshelf

Opioid Use Disorder – Fact Sheets | Yale Medicine

Identifying and Managing Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Alcohol Rehab Processes: How To Overcome Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol Rehab Processes: How To Overcome Alcohol Addiction

Entering into rehab for alcohol addiction can be a difficult and time-consuming process. It may not be a quick recovery that you go through, which means that losing motivation and momentum is very possible. Turning your life around from abusing alcohol takes a lot of effort, and recovery can be an isolating process.

Overcoming alcohol dependence may be difficult, but it is completely worth the struggle. Life after alcohol addiction is possible; you just have to put in the work and stay committed to your goals.

Getting help at a treatment facility, surrounding yourself with support, and setting reasonable standards for yourself can propel you into a successful recovery.

What Is Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction is a chronic relapse disorder that makes it difficult for someone to function while staying sober. It is often referred to as both Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and alcoholism, and it can impact anyone.

People may experience alcohol addiction at different levels, with some having more severe addictions than others. At any level, suffering from alcohol addiction is no way to live, and getting treatment is necessary to live your best life.

Those that suffer from AUD aren’t consciously deciding to. Rather, their brains have adjusted to the amounts of alcohol being put into the body and therefore learn to need it in their systems to survive.

It Impacts People Differently

Anyone can suffer from alcohol addiction. Different factors contribute to someone’s path into addiction, like genetics, family history, societal pressure, and various environmental factors.

Sometimes it can be difficult for a person to see that they have issues with alcohol because not all of the tell-tale signs are there. Some people can retain a job or relationship while struggling with alcoholism, and others may not be able to maintain any form of stability.

For many, other people begin to pick up on the changes in their behavior and notice an issue before they can for themselves. There can be a lot of resentment toward treatment at first, but it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself.

How Do I Recover from Addiction?

Overcoming addiction is going to look different for everyone who struggles with it. There is no one right way to overcome your addiction to alcohol. To see success, you have to be prepared to follow a very individual and specialized treatment plan.

You may be able to get advice from others who have gone through the process and are in active recovery, but how you find success for yourself is dependent on your own specific needs. That’s all to say that there is no one process that will help everyone overcome addiction; what works for you might not work for others.

However, you can go through a few steps to put you on the right path and help figure out your needs.

1. Confide in Someone You Trust

You may have heard it said that the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem. While noticing signs of an alcohol problem, like excessive drinking habits, alcohol cravings, diminished brain function, and co-relating health conditions, is a great first step, confiding your drinking problem to others is truly the beginning of recovery.

Figuring out your support system early on can be instrumental in your recovery process. Recovery can be isolating, but having people behind you showing support is very encouraging. Whether it’s your family members, your closest friends, a neighbor from across the street, or someone you work with, finding someone you trust to talk about your struggles is helpful in the recovery process.

For those that don’t feel comfortable sharing with anyone, there is a major benefit of entering into sober spaces or Alcoholics Anonymoussupport group meetings geared towards addiction. Here, you are both anonymous and understood. Building community in sober spaces can help you to open up and confide in those around you for support.

Going through alcohol-related addiction and drug abuse alone is heartbreaking, but it can be more difficult to uphold your goals without support in recovery.

Along the same lines, consulting your primary healthcare provider for medical advice is an important step. Even short-termalcohol misuse or an evening of binge drinking can lead to negative health effects and risk factors for other health conditions.

If you don’t feel like you have a trusted support group, you can always call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s helpline. While not a trusted family member, a SAMHSA representative can listen to your confession and guide you toward treatment providers and smart recovery options.

2. Think About the Positives and Negatives of Alcohol

You may be thinking: Positives? What positives?

It’s important to understand why you might associate alcohol addiction with positive things in your life so that you can get to the bottom of your reasoning. For instance, some might feel more confident and less anxious in social settings if they are drinking.

Isn’t it positive to be more outgoing? Yes, but not when you need alcohol to express that side of you!

The positives of drinking might be:

    • It helps to forget any stress.
  • It is a way for you to relax and have fun.

The negatives of drinking are:

  • It can cost a lot of money.
  • You can wake up feeling very mentally and physically unwell.
  • It gets in the way of jobs, school, or relationships.
  • It can contribute to health problems down the road, like heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, and cirrhosis.

Then you can reframe the question as, “what positive things could come out of me not drinking?”. You might be able to hold onto your responsibilities better and feel better both physically and mentally.

You can save money and focus your time and energy on new hobbies and experiences. You can meet people who support you and want the best for you. The list goes on and on!

3. Cutting Back vs. Quitting

Not everyone has the goal of quitting using alcohol immediately. Quitting cold turkey can be very difficult and cause adverse reactions like alcohol withdrawal, especially when you try to do it alone and not in a treatment facility.

If your goal is to quit drinking alcohol, your best bet is to undergo the detoxification process inside a treatment center where you can be monitored and cared for properly. This is especially true for heavy drinking and long-term alcohol abuse, where the effects of alcohol withdrawal may be stronger.

It may be easier to start trying to cut back your alcohol consumption and go from there. You can remove alcohol from your house, so you aren’t tempted to have a drink on you at all times and limit the nights you go out to eat or to a bar.

You should record how often you drink to better understand how much you consume in a day, a week, and a month. This will help you come up with more attainable goals for your detox and recovery process.

4. Set Goals and Keep Them

When entering into alcohol rehabilitation, you will want to set goals for yourself that are actually achievable. If you set goals that are too big or premature, you may let yourself down, which can be very discouraging.

Instead, set small, realistic goals — as many as you want! Checking things off can feel really good, but boxes that go unchecked for too long can cause stress and feelings of defeat.

Consider some of the following goals and then create some that are specific and unique to you:

  • I will stop drinking on weekdays.
  • I will be able to hold a job for at least three months.
  • I will spend X hours with my family/friends daily.
  • I will limit my weekday drinking to two drinks a day.
  • I will quit drinking by (date).

Share your goals with trusted people around you so that they can help hold you accountable. Don’t be afraid to ask for more support, and don’t feel discouraged if you don’t reach a goal. Instead, rewrite the goal and set out to try again.

5. Look Into Entering Treatment

You can begin recovery at any point, but it can be more difficult without entering a treatment center. The goal of many addiction treatment centers is to come up with personalized alcohol treatment plans that pinpoint your specific healthcare needs.

Treatment centers often provide an individual with around-the-clock care and various treatment options like behavioral health therapy and exercise. Plus, treatment centers are meant to help people who suffer from addiction, so getting help at one can help you on the path to recovery.

Get Help With Soba Recovery

Treatment centers like Soba Recovery in San Antonio, Texas, can help you get the treatment you need to overcome alcohol addiction and other substance use disorders. It may not be easy, but with the support from trained professionals who are there to help, it feels like you can accomplish anything.

Soba Recovery works to develop a plan specific to your needs so that we can help treat all aspects of your addiction. By providing services like detoxification to help with withdrawal symptoms, inpatient or intensive outpatient, and sober living, you can match with the right recovery method.

Everyone responds to treatment differently, so it’s important to look into both your mental health and physical health needs. With individual and group therapy sessions, you can build community and trust within yourself.

Reach out today if you or a loved one could benefit from the treatment services here at Soba Recovery. To find recovery from alcohol addiction, you should begin your journey today!

Sources:

The Cycle of Alcohol Addiction | NIAAA

Chapter 5—Specialized Substance AbuseTreatment Programs | NCBI

Benefits Of Peer Support Groups In The Treatment Of Addiction | NCBI

SAMHSA’s National Helpline | SAMHSA

What Does a Substance Abuse Counselor Do?

If you’ve ever been interested in helping people with substance abuse issues or have struggled with addiction, you might be wondering what a substance abuse counselor does. Whether you’ve come across one or want to be one, understanding their skillset and job duties can give you a better idea of their purpose.

Substance abuse counselors can wear many hats and be helpful in various settings. They must be prepared to deal with more than just substance abuse issues. Substance abuse is not often an isolated condition and has other co-occurring disorders that need to be treated accordingly.

A substance abuse counselor can bring a lot of good into your life and help you back onto the right track. Keep reading to learn more about what substance abuse counselors do and how they are helpful to society.

What Is a Substance Abuse Counselor?

A substance abuse counselor helps someone experiencing substance abuse disorder with treatment and support. They are trained to work with those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse and help to come up with specialized plans to treat specific patients.

Addiction counselors can work in various settings, like inpatient care, outpatient treatment programs, case management, hospitals, mental hospitals, or private healthcare practices. Wherever they end up, the goal is to treat substance abuse and find ways to get a person back on track, happier and healthier than ever.

Substance abuse counselors never know what they will tackle in a day. Addiction is a very difficult and heartbreaking disease, so a counselor will have to be strong to endure the same pain every day.

It’s not all about coming up with treatment plans. Drug abuse counselors have many tasks, so a unique skill set is essential.

Skills Needed for the Job

To be successful and helpful as a substance abuse counselor, you must be patient and willing. The job is not easy and comes with many ups and downs. Every day could throw something at you that you’ve never experienced before, so being prepared and collected can go a long way.

Some skills that substance abuse counselors should possess are:

  • Patience: Substance abuse counselors must practice patience every day. Addiction recovery is not linear, and plans get skewed frequently. People will relapse, but that only means they need their counselor even more, to show up for them.
  • Empathy: Many people attach shame and guilt to their addiction, so you must learn how to be empathetic towards all people. The patient seeking help is likely embarrassed about needing help, but welcoming people as they are and giving them everything you have will be rewarding.
  • Compassion: An addiction counselor should want to help others in need. This can’t be something that isn’t natural for you; compassion shows people that you really are putting your best foot forward. Someone seeking help for their substance abuse disorder doesn’t want to feel like an obligation or burden. They want someone who believes in them!
  • Activelistening: Substance abuse counselors need to practice active listening skills. If you listen without judgment and focus on being as welcoming and open as possible, it’s easier for those struggling to open up about their issues. You have to listen to what is said to form your own opinions on how to treat them while also understanding what is being asked of an individual.

The History of Substance Abuse Counseling

Substance abuse counseling is a bit newer than other mental health counselors and medical practices. How society treats substance abuse now is much different than how it was treated 50 or 100 years ago.

People used to (and some still do) carry very negative connotations when it comes to substance abuse. Many people used to view it as a moral failure or flaw under control by that individual. It wasn’t until more recently that substance abuse and addiction became seen as mental and physical disorders that could be treated.

The need for substance abuse counselors came about once it became understood that society and those struggling with addiction would benefit. While therapists could be useful, someone specializing in substance use disorders would better understand the disease and how to best combat it.

Education Requirements

When someone wants to become a substance abuse counselor, they must undergo multiple years of schooling. They will need at least a bachelor’s degree in substance abuse counseling or a related mental health field.

Some counselors will go for their master’s degree or doctorate degree because it can help them climb the ladder and get into more professional developmental settings.

Different states have different requirements for this credential, so you will have to look into yours specifically by state. You usually need to be licensed by the state to practice mental health counseling of any kind.

Examples of state requirements for licensure may include:

  • Graduation from an accredited alcohol and drug counselor degree program
  • Coursework in addiction studies, human services, social science, and behavioral health
  • Established work experience
  • A set number of clinical experience hours
  • References from other addiction professionals
  • A certain amount of continuing education per year

Substance Abuse Counselors: What Do They Do?

To best understand what a substance abuse counselor does, you should know what some of the tasks they do. Substance abuse counselors might have a range of job functions, and not everyone does the same work.

Generally, a substance abuse counselor works to provide a patient with a specialized treatment plan, education surrounding substance abuse, and resources and support needed to have a successful recovery journey.

Education on Substance Abuse

There is a lack of education that becomes apparent when you discuss substance abuse in society. There are many negative associations it has, and though many know that it’s not a contagious disease, it is often treated as such.

Very vulnerable populations, like homeless people, people experiencing poverty, people experiencing abuse, and people with mental illness, find themselves struggling with substance abuse. One job a substance abuse counselor has is to educate these people about substance abuse and how it can impact their lives.

Counselors will inform about the effects of substance abuse on a person, sharing with people the risks of addiction. If there is a lack of education about drugs and alcohol and the impacts that they can have, it is more likely that substances end up being abused at some point in that person’s life.

Individual or Group Therapy Sessions

Substance abuse counselors often lead both group and individual therapy sessions. A counselor is likely a part of a multidisciplinary team that aims to cover all of their bases. They often work with psychiatrists, law enforcement, the court system, nurses, and other therapists and counselors to come up with treatment plans that work.

Through these group or individual sessions, a substance abuse counselor can learn more about what each individual needs. Through therapy sessions, patients should be able to open up more and find what works best for them.

Creating Individualized Treatment Plans

One of the main things that a substance abuse counselor will do is create individual and specialized treatment plans for their patients. Individuals must be treated for their specific needs, such as chemical dependency or behavioral addiction. However, after just one meeting, you might not know what that plan looks like.

Being in touch and staying up-to-date with a patient’s progress, difficulties, and history can help a counselor make informed decisions when creating a treatment plan. These plans should include the specific goals of the patient and take into consideration a variety of different factors.

Depending on the kind of treatment the patient is undergoing, what kind of trauma they are working through, and what their home life looks like will impact their progress. A specialized treatment plan will be updated and changed as needed to continue to match the patient’s needs.

Referring Patients to Other Resources

Many people who struggle with substance abuse will find it hard to maintain a proper job or school. A substance abuse counselor can help find new spaces for their patients, whether a job, an activity, or a learning program. Knowing where to start to look can be difficult, but a counselor can help by providing those resources.

You can’t do all of the work for them, but you can provide them with the tools necessary to be more successful. You might be able to find treatment centers in the area for them, point them in the direction of support groups, or even share with them sober-friendly experiences, so they don’t have to seek them out themselves.

Setting Up Aftercare

Addiction recovery is not linear, so you must be prepared for relapses or prolonged needs for assistance. Not everyone will recover on the same timeline, so aftercare is essential. If you are working with someone impatient and nervous about returning to the real world, you can set them up with outpatient services or something like sober living.

Providing your patients with options during their recovery process can help them to transition better into their new lifestyle. Plus, coming up with answers to “What’s next?” is overwhelming, so doing the heavy lifting for your patients really pays off.

Teach Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Not only are you providing resources, offering support, and monitoring a person’s process, but you also have to teach your patients different coping mechanisms. Recovery from substance abuse is filled with many triggers and stressors, so identifying them is the first step. A person may not recognize a trigger as being such until they are experiencing it on their own for the first time.

If you can teach your patients healthy coping skills, they can be more prepared when confronted with reality. Identify the triggers and then help come up with a solution. This way, your patient is better equipped to handle whatever comes at them.

Part of your job may also be helping your patient establish a support system of family members or friends. You may also be responsible for providing them with referrals to mental health professionals or social workers.

Keeping Records and Providing Progress Reports

It’s not all fun and games. A large part of being a substance abuse counselor is keeping records, taking notes, providing progress reports, and entering data into a computer or filing system. Keeping track of your patient’s needs and progress will help you maintain their treatment plans more easily.

This part of the job is more tedious and less creative than when using problem-solving skills to come up with solutions. But at the end of the day, keeping track of your patients progress and recording any of their new struggles will help you down the line.

Where To Find Substance Abuse Counselors

Substance abuse counselors can be found in various settings. They are often found in treatment facilities and mental health practices. They have to specialize in substance abuse to understand their job duties fully, but they provide a lot of value in their workplace.

Substance abuse is a tricky and particular disease that isn’t treated like other mental health or physical diseases. It takes much more individualization to treat substance abuse and addiction successfully.

Besides rehabilitation centers and mental health practices, you might find substance abuse counselors in prisons, parole and probation agencies, detoxification centers, halfway houses, government agencies, and private practices.

How To Get Help With Soba Recovery

If you are struggling with substance abuse or have a loved one who is, seeking treatment from a substance abuse recovery center like Soba Recovery Center of San Antonio, Texas, it can bring you great success. Here, substance abuse counselors work with a team of other addiction specialists and medical professionals to create a treatment plan that is right for you.

Getting help can be difficult, but it’s almost always worth it in the end. With the help of trained professionals, you can get around-the-clock care to work with your specific needs. Whether you want to enter into a more intensive outpatient program, stay with us 24/7 inpatient, or need to undergo the detoxification process, your substance abuse counselor will be there with you every step of the way.

To reach your goals, you need to seek help from people who can help create a plan and then assist you in maintaining those goals. For substance abuse, accountability can go a long way! We here at Soba aim to supply you with all the equipment you may need to succeed in your recovery journey.

Sources:

TAP 21 Addiction Counseling Competencies: The Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes of Professional Practice | SAMHSA

Substance Use, Academic Performance, and Academic Engagement Among High School Seniors | NCBI

The Key to Individualized Addiction Treatment is Comprehensive Assessment and Monitoring of Symptoms and Behavioral Change | NCBI

Support Groups: A Complete Guide To Getting Help

Support Groups: A Complete Guide To Getting Help

Addiction is a very isolating disease. Many people who struggle with addiction find that going through recovery alone is a very difficult task to complete. Building community and finding support from people around you can help you to overcome your addiction.

Asking for help is not easy for everyone, but it’s necessary for recovery. You can take advantage of many resources during your recovery process, including entering treatment centers or becoming a part of support groups. You may feel alone, but there are plenty of avenues to lead you to others struggling with similar issues.

If you’ve wondered how support groups work or can help, keep reading to find out more.

What Is a Support Group?

A support group doesn’t always have to be geared toward addiction or substance use. When a group of people comes together to offer emotional support and care to others struggling with a similar challenge, that is considered a support group.

You may have support groups for grief, mental health disorders, disabilities, or caregiving on top of groups dedicated to addiction. A support group offers a safe space for people who may be struggling with the same issues.

It can be hard for outsiders to fully understand the struggles you face with addiction, but others who have gone through or are going through addiction are more likely to relate. Here you can be offered support services, tips, anecdotes, and information about how addiction can manifest and how to treat it.

You may learn coping skills or methods from group members who have practiced them. It’s also a way to feel justified and comforted if one pathway doesn’t work out for you. You’d be surprised at how many support groups there are for issues you didn’t think anyone else struggled with!

Types of Support Groups

There are various support groups, and you might find some more helpful than others. The main three that you can enter into are a 12-step program, often geared towards drugs or alcohol, mutual support groups led by peers, or therapy groups led by mental health professionals.

Additionally, there is the ability to enter online support groups where you can find support from all over the world and build connections without leaving your house. Whatever works best for you and will help you on your path to recovery!

12-step Programs

Twelve-step programs are often associated with drug and alcohol rehab because there is an emphasis on the 12-step program created by Alcoholics Anonymous. These groups will sometimes be led by peers or sponsors who once struggled with addiction.

In these groups, you can work together to enter into recovery with the support of individuals searching for the same outcomes. This approach can be more structured, which might be helpful to those looking to get back on track. It allows you to follow a path and take your time getting to the destination.

Mutual Support Groups

In mutual support groups, you may not get professional advice from someone, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less invaluable. Mutual support groups are run by peers trained in how to facilitate and lead these groups but aren’t medical or mental health professionals. Instead, they are facilitators who are or have dealt with similar issues.

In these peer-led support group settings, members will share their stories, what their goals are, what has and has not been working for them, and work to inspire and uplift everyone else in attendance. Here you can form great connections with people struggling with the same issues and not feel pressured or judged by anyone in the circle.

Therapy Groups

If you attend a treatment facility, you might be entered into a therapy group led by mental health professionals and therapists specializing in mental health care. These groups are more geared towards specific issues, such as mental health conditions and mental illness, and are put together by a specific provider.

You may not be in treatment but still want to attend a group therapy session. This might be covered under your insurance, and you can talk to your primary care physician about finding a therapy group for your specific needs.

Online Support Groups

Not everyone can dedicate hours of their week to traveling and attending a group meeting, but they still want the benefits and social support that come with it. We have access to the wonderful world wide web in today’s society. Online support groups are gaining more popularity due to their flexibility.

This might not be the most preferred method of support groups because there can sometimes feel like a lack of connection due to being online, but do what’s best for you. Whether on chat functions or zoom, online groups are out there! If you cannot attend in-person meetings, doing the next best thing can still allow you to gain that sense of support in these online communities.

Benefits of Support Groups

Getting help for your addiction can be scary; the last thing you want to feel is isolation. Being vulnerable about your issues and opening up to others can help you to relieve stress and gain confidence. Addiction can lower your self-esteem but finding community is a great way to build it back up.

You can learn a lot from joining support groups that will help you on your path to recovery.

Building Community

An ideal part of joining a support group for your addiction is the community that you build from it. If you are the only person struggling with addiction in your friend group or among your family members, you might not always feel like they understand your struggles and where you are coming from. In a support group for addiction, you meet individuals with similar experiences who know exactly what you’re going through.

Community and support are key in the recovery process. People can confide in strangers who have undergone similar struggles and learn how to lessen their emotional burdens. You might have many unanswered questions, but you are encouraged to ask them in support groups. This is where you can learn a lot from other people struggling with substance abuse.

Learning Coping Strategies

You will likely try several coping mechanisms throughout your recovery to get through your addiction. Not everyone responds the same to each mechanism, so it’s about finding what works for you.

What’s great about support groups is that you are thrown into a space where other people have tried out things you’ve never even thought of to help you cope. You learn a lot about what works and what doesn’t work for others going through a similar issue. This allows you to try out methods that have worked for others.

Having this open dialogue and discussing what others have done to help their recovery process can open up a path you may never have tried to take.

Maintaining Momentum

Support groups are there for one thing: to support you. Many people think they have to go through addiction and addiction recovery alone. If you’re thinking this way, isn’t it likely that someone else out there is too? You can find these people and then work towards encouraging them and providing unwavering support. When you act this way for others, it begins to reflect back on your own journey.

Keeping up with momentum is really tricky when it comes to recovery. Relapsing is very real and happens to many people throughout their recovery process. Support groups help to maintain this momentum and encourage people to keep pushing forward.

Promoting self-care and advocacy

Support groups also promote self-care practices so that you can recover and live your life! These groups help to teach you about preserving yourself with self-care tips, organization and management tools, resources in case of emergencies, and other care services.

It can be difficult to advocate for yourself and your own happiness, but support groups teach you to be kinder to yourself. The outcome of a support group is to enter into the world confidently, knowing that other people have your back just as much as you have your own.

Getting Help at Soba Recovery Center

If this sounds like something you could benefit from, consider entering an addiction recovery treatment center like Soba Recovery in San Antonio, Texas. Along with other services like detoxification, inpatient, and outpatient, Soba Recovery offers therapy group sessions with other individuals struggling with similar addictions.

Here you can connect with people in your area who are looking to enter into recovery but just need more support to succeed. Building each other up and helping along the way is what Soba Recovery’s support groups aim for.

Reach out to a representative if you are interested in learning more about the recovery services offered here at Soba.

Sources:

The Effectiveness Of Support Groups: A Literature Review | University of Wollongong

12-Step Interventions and Mutual Support Programs for Substance Use Disorders: An Overview | NCBI

Benefits Of Peer Support Groups In The Treatment Of Addiction | NCBI