Category: Drug Rehab

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Drug Rehab

When & Why Drug Detox is Necessary?

when drug detox is necessary

Drug detox is a crucial part of the addiction recovery process. It is the process of allowing your body to naturally rid itself of the substances and begin to cleanse. The drug detox process may last up to several days and involve different withdrawal symptoms. But why is drug detox important during the addiction rehabilitation process? Here we discuss all things on when and why drug detox is necessary. 

Introduction

Whether someone is seeking help for an addiction to drugs or alcohol, the detox phase is inevitable as the drugs finally leave the body. This process must happen in order for the body to learn to function again without the substances. The main purpose of a drug detox program is to help the recovering individual manage the withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are likely to happen after a chronic or frequent drug user abruptly discontinues the use of the drugs or alcohol. 

 

Here we will discuss:

 

  • What does drug detox and withdrawal management mean?
  • Why withdrawal management is important 
  • When and why drug detox is necessary 
  • Where can I locate a certified and professional detox program? 

The Meaning of Drug Detox & Withdrawal Management

Drug detox is a natural process of eliminating any drugs or alcohol from the body, specifically within the liver. Within this process, withdrawal symptoms are likely to occur. Withdrawal management is another term that is often used to describe drug detox. Residential detox Treatment are to help recovering individuals manage the withdrawal symptoms in order to have a safe recovery and avoid any possible relapses.

While drug detox and the withdrawal experience are not the same, drug detox programs are to help with withdrawal management. Oftentimes, various types of therapy and medications are given during the initial phase of the detox and withdrawal management process. Sometimes the withdrawal symptoms can cause severe discomfort and pain and a medical or mental health provider will prescribe certain medications to help ease the discomfort. 

It should be noted that the detox and withdrawal management phase is only the first step in addiction recovery and intensive therapeutic care will be required to help ensure the recovering individual is fully equipped and skilled to live a drug-free lifestyle. 

Is Drug Withdrawal Management Always Important?

With more chronic and severe disorders such as alcohol use disorder or opioid use disorder, the withdrawal symptoms can be extremely dangerous. In these situations, without medical support, a person can be at risk of experiencing severe health issues including death. Withdrawal management is crucial for assuring these individuals are safe and supported throughout the detox and withdrawal process. 

Symptoms such as excessive sweating, nausea, fatigue, and increased anxiety or depression are common withdrawal symptoms. More concerning symptoms include shaking, compulsions, suicidal ideations, and seizures. Drug cravings are an extremely common symptom of the detox and withdrawal experience and without the proper support, can lead to a relapse. In some cases, such as with opioid addiction, a relapse is likely to result in an overdose due to the decreased tolerance level. This is tragically common and often leads to death. Proper care is crucial for ensuring the safety of each individual seeking recovery. 

 

When & Why Drug Detox is Necessary

why drug detox is necessary

Drug detox is only the first step in the addiction recovery process. A person must first rid the substances from the body and then learn to manage drug cravings and utilize healthy coping skills for relapse prevention. This is a necessary step as the body learns to function without the drugs. 

Oftentimes, people may begin the detox phase on their own, however, attempting to quit “cold turkey” may cause more damage to the body or result in a relapse. There are many drugs detox programs that will help provide a safe and supportive environment to completely cleanse the body from any drugs or alcohol. While drug detox is an important but unpleasant phase, you can expect complete support throughout.

 

Lion Recovery Detox Program 

 

Drug detox centers exist all throughout the United States and often include an inpatient rehab center to help with the full recovery. If you or someone you know is wishing to begin the drug detox process and start your journey to a drug-free life, contact Lion Recovery today at (888) 616-3179 to learn more about our detox program. 

Nobody should have to recover from an addiction alone, and Lion Recovery is here for you.

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Drug Rehab

What is the Best Way to Deal with Relapse?

One thing many people either misunderstand or often forget, is that relapsing is a part of the addiction recovery process. That is not to say it should be ignored or praised, but it is important to note that it is a normal part of the journey. So, how do you deal with relapse? And what do you do after a relapse? Here will talk about all things on drug relapse and change the way we think about the addiction recovery process.

 

Introduction:

While the act of a relapse may feel like a failure, it is possible to get back on the road to recovery. There are ways to handle these situations to create more insight for future relapse prevention. The most important thing to remember is that there is always support and resources to help you recover from your relapse and heal your addiction. Here we will discuss: 

  • The definition of relapse 
  • Stages of relapse 
  • Relapse risk factors 
  • What to do right after a relapse 
  • How to know if you need to seek treatment again 
  • Treatment options after a relapse 

Definition of Relapse

According to the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, a relapse is when someone has stopped maintaining their goal of reducing or avoiding using drugs or alcohol and returns to previous levels of use. The drug of choice and the severity of use will vary from person to person and does not change the classification of a relapse. 

 

The addiction recovery process is not linear, and it is an ongoing journey that takes dedication and time. Although relapses are considered a step backward in this process, it does not mean you cannot still seek the help you deserve. 

Stages of Relapse

While it may seem as though relapse is a quick and impulsive event, this often isn’t the case. There are three stages that may happen, leading to a relapse: emotional relapse, mental relapse, and physical relapse. 
three stages of relapse

  1. Emotional relapse: The individual is behaving in ways that could potentially lead to using again. Examples of this include bottling up emotions, not attending therapy or support groups, isolation, poor self-care, etc. The individual might not necessarily be considering a relapse, but these problematic behaviors are likely to lead to one. 
  2. Mental relapse: The individual has now begun thinking about using drugs or alcohol again. This stage has been described as “a war inside the mind” as the individual goes back and forth from wanting to use to not wanting to. When a person is in this stage, their resistance to drug use diminishes and they are likely to relapse. 
  3. Physical relapse: The individual uses drugs or alcohol and has stopped maintaining their goals for avoiding drug use. 

 

Each person is different and may experience a different process before relapsing. It is important to be aware of the stages and learn relapse prevention skills and techniques to avoid reaching the physical relapse stage. 

Relapse Risk Factors

There are many different reasons someone might deal with relapse, but what are the specific risk factors? According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the relapse rate for those in addiction recovery is as high as 40-60%. Therefore, by simply being a recovering addict, you are at high risk for relapsing. Poor mental health or mental health disorders are another risk factor associated with relapse. Personal, professional, or relational issues are all considered risk factors for relapse. 

 

There is no definite answer for determining when or why someone may deal with relapse, but we must remember that help is always available. 

What to do Right After a Relapse

A person might feel extreme negative emotions after dealing with a relapse. They may feel shame, guilt, anger, embarrassment, etc. Oftentimes, the feeling of helplessness is associated with relapse, causing the individual to continue to use rather than seeking help again. But a relapse does not mean you cannot continue to work hard for your sobriety. 

 

If you have relapsed, talk with someone you trust about it, or better yet, contact a treatment center to receive proper help. Often, when a person deal with a relapse, there is more going on in the mind, than just simply using drugs. A treatment center can help you recognize and identify triggers and develop coping skills for relapse prevention. 

Do I Need to Go Back to Treatment?

You do not have to relapse in order to go back to treatment. If you are having thoughts of using drugs or alcohol again, or are having mental health issues, seeking treatment may be the best option to avoid a possible relapse. The mental health professionals can help you remember why you are living a drug-free life, and help you identify the tools and coping skills that keep you away from using drugs or alcohol. If you are struggling in any way, seek help before a possible relapse occurs.

What Are My Treatment Options After a Relapse?

Anyone working in the mental health and addiction profession is fully aware that relapse is just a part of the recovery process. Just because someone has relapsed does not mean they are not welcome back into treatment. Treatment options after a relapse will look the same as they would for someone who is in recovery for the first time. Inpatient and outpatient rehab centers will welcome anyone wishing to recover from their addiction, regardless of if they relapsed. 

Conclusion

Recovering from an addiction is a long journey and it will look different for each person. Relapse is common and unfortunately to be expected with most recovering addicts. Luckily, those in the addiction treatment world know just how challenging it is to maintain sobriety. The qualified and highly trained staff at Lion Recovery know that relapse is normal for recovering addicts. 

 

If you or a loved one are seeking help with your addiction, contact Lion Recovery today at (888) 616-3179 to start your journey to a drug-free life.

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Drug Rehab

Same Day Admission to a Residential Detox Treatment Center

residential detox admission process

No matter the type of substance use disorder, the treatment process usually begins with a detox period. The detox period typically lasts several days and is the natural process of ridding the body from the substances that were put into it. This is the period when the withdrawal symptoms are likely to be the most uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes even dangerous. But how does someone start the detox process and is same day admission to a residential detox treatment center possible? Let us find out. 


Introduction 

Whether you have made the decision to start treating your addiction or a situation has caused you to seek help, same day admissions to a drug detox program is absolutely possible. There are many reasons someone may seek same day admission in a detox program and most of the time, it is due to an emergency situation. The following is discussed below: 

  • Same day detox programs 
  • Why do I need same day admission in a detox program? 
  • What is the detox process? 
  • The intensity of detox care 
  • How long the detox process is
  • Walk-in for same day admission to residential treatment centers 

What is a Same Day Detox Program?

Same day detox programs offer treatment-seeking individuals to be provided a safe and comfortable environment to detox from drugs and begin their addiction recovery journey. This is frequently due to emergency situations, such as when the individual detoxifying is suffering serious withdrawal symptoms, which are most commonly associated with alcohol withdrawal syndrome.


Regardless of the reasoning, same day detox is the opportunity for an individual to enter a supportive program and seek the help they need to recover from their addiction. 

Why Do I Need Same Day Admission in Detox?

Oftentimes, when someone with a severe substance use disorder or alcohol use disorder attempts to quit “cold turkey,” it causes dangerous withdrawal effects. In these cases, same day admission in a detox program is the only way to ensure safety throughout the process. Drug cravings are an indication of drug detox and withdrawal, and if someone tries to quit on their own, their tolerance will naturally be reduced. When their tolerance is decreased, and the drug cravings worsen, the likelihood of a relapse and possible overdose is greatly increased. To avoid these possible fatal situations, same day admission in a detox program may be the only option to consider. 

What is the Detox Process?

same day admission to residential detox

While each person’s experience with drug detox may differ, the approach is usually the same. The detox process is the first step in addiction recovery but is not a treatment. This process works by naturally eliminating the drugs from the body by using different sets of interventions. Sometimes therapy and medication are involved to help manage the withdrawal symptoms. 

The detox process can be described within three steps: 

  1. Evaluation: The medical or mental health professional gathers information about the individual’s history with substance use, mental health disorders, and any other social circumstances to determine the severity of the detox and withdrawal phase. 
  2. Stabilization: The medical and mental health professionals offer help and support while the individual experiences the withdrawal symptoms until they are fully stabilized. Typically, psychosocial interventions are used to help ensure stability. 
  3. Fostering the individual into further addiction treatment: The process of getting the individual prepared to enter an addiction treatment facility, usually an inpatient or outpatient treatment center. 

The detox process takes time and can be unpleasant, but it is necessary to continue on the path to addiction recovery.

Measuring Intensity of Detox Care

Not all same day admissions into a detox center are for emergency situations. When determining the intensity level of care for an individual wishing to or currently detoxing, there are a few factors to consider. For instance, does an individual need 24/7 medical supervision? This is usually the case with alcohol use disorder and opioids use disorder. Another factor to consider is whether or not there are other medical or mental health conditions present within the individual. In some cases, the individual may need full time medical support and in other cases, they might need both medical and psychiatric support. 


When in doubt, contact 911 or seek help from a hospital and the qualified staff will help guide you in the right direction.   

How Long Does Detox Treatment Take?

The amount of time a drug detox treatment takes may vary on the individual and the severity of the substance use or alcohol use disorder. Drug detox usually takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. But the detox phase is only the first step in treatment. After the detox period, the individual is likely to enter an addiction treatment program such as an inpatient or outpatient program. Here they will learn new, healthy ways of living a drug-free life. 

Can I Walk-in for Same Day Treatment in a Residential Treatment Center?

Many residential treatment centers will allow for same day admissions, but this is not always the case. This will depend on the facilities availability, the individual’s specific recovery needs, and the finances to pay for the program. While it can be effective to attempt to walk in for a same day admission into a residential treatment center, it might help to first call the center to ask about availability. 


If you or someone you know are wishing to seek help for your addiction, Lion Recovery is here for you. Contact us today at (888) 616-3179 to learn more about our detox and treatment options and start your journey to a new life, drug free.

Categories
Drug Rehab

Why Should You Never Go For A Rapid Detox Program?

avoid rapid drug detox program

One thing that makes it hard for them to live is when they are bound to some addiction, these addictions can be from alcohol or any drug substance, which tends to harm the person. This article will tell you top reasons why you should avoid Rapid Drug Detox to save your body.

People seek clarity and try to subdue their addictions through detoxification; they either seek pharmacological assistance or seek treatment in a rehab facility where medical professionals can help them break their addictions.

As the number of rehab and detox centers grows, some people are taking the initiative to open rapid detox centers with immediate treatments. However, these treatments are suggested to be unsuitable; let’s know why?

Brief of Drug Detoxification

Drug detoxification is mainly for the people who are bound to addiction, though they want to change for good. 

A human conscience develops with time. Similarly, it can get damaged with time if you regularly use drugs. Drug abuse can be hazardous as people slowly loosen up their senses and feelings, making them hard to deal with. 

Drug detoxification centers provide help and various forms of treatment and medication to the people seeking assistance to situate their problems and find recovery. It is a form of clinical service supervised by people who have some specialty in understanding drug abuse and can aid people who need help.

If you are looking for help to get rid of drugs for yourself or your loved ones, you can conduct research based on drug detoxification and find the best drug rehab center near me. Through this, you can seek help for yourself or provide support to the person searching for use.

As we know, drug abuse can create an unnatural imbalance in the organs of the human body, affecting the brain, circulatory system, liver, kidney, and specific organs. Thus, when you would reach out for help from the professionals, they can ensure you the best treatment. It allows the medication to detox the unnatural substance and create an environment for the body to release that harmful substance and heal as much as possible.

Drug detox process has some symptoms called withdrawal systems; these symptoms can irritate the representative body through drug abuse. Thus, these can cause physiological changes to the body that can be hard to register. 

Drug detoxification, on the other hand, can aid those who are trying to quit using drugs.

How to Avoid Rapid Detox Programs? 

rapid drug detox limitations

Rapid detox programs, as the name implies, are high-speed detoxification programs. They combine therapies and medication with activities to help people recover from drug addiction quickly.

The treatment includes quite potent sedatives and heavy doses of opioid antagonists (naloxone). These doses allow the ultra-fast release of opioids from the body. 

However, these rapid detoxifications are ultra-fast. Thus, the reports show rapid detox can’t fix the problem entirely and leave plenty of loopholes for patients to go back to their daily drug abuse. 

Many patients who opted for rapid detox addressed that the treatment might work in releasing the opioids from their bodies. Still, it does not affect the drug addiction properly, resulting in an excessive need to relapse. That can be more horrible than before. However, you can avoid rapid drugs by researching the program and treatment and choosing the best.

Though there are many conquests of getting rapid detox as the treatment program for drug abuse. The rapid detox has some negative impact on the body of drug addicts, as they have many heavy sedatives, including:

  • The rapid detox causes harmful and dangerous body strains as the body becomes gradually weak and unable to handle the sedatives included in health hazards during detox.
  •  However, the heavy doses can become the reason for some severe problems like cardiac arrest and potential health risks.
  • Withdrawal symptoms can be stressful for the patient forcing them to re-use the drugs for some relief. 
  • Their rapid detox is not reliable as they can be of no use to any improvement in the progress of drug detoxification. Hence it develops more discomfort causing higher drug intake than before.  

Thus, you can avoid rapid detox by minding all the factors that can lead people’s health towards downfall. Many drug treatment programs are appropriately executed and made for the betterment of people. So, one can look for the best.

Final words:

At Lion Recovery, We are very strict about our treatment programmer so that we can give our patients the best care possible. The people who are over from their old habits and the negative impacts of drug abuse need extreme care and medication. 
Thus, the Lion Recovery detox center is one of the best detox centers in California. We create medication programs considering the requirements of people that can address the addiction and heal people thoroughly; these medically assisted programs are under the supervision of medical professionals. People can expect the best results. 

Categories
Drug Rehab

Cocaine Hangover: Things You Should Know

Cocaine Hangover

As with hangovers from just about any drug, Cocaine hangovers can bring a lot of uncomfortable feelings and emotions to the surface. Cocaine hangovers can include both mental and physical symptoms and can make the user feel like they never want to use Cocaine again, or they result back to the drug as a way to escape the hangover. But what are Cocaine hangover symptoms and are Cocaine comedowns risky? Here is everything to know about Cocaine hangovers.

Cocaine Hangover Symptoms

Cocaine is a stimulant drug that reacts to the body’s central nervous system. It can cause feelings of euphoria and produce high energy. While these feelings are desirable to many drug users, the symptoms of a Cocaine hangover are not quite as desirable. In fact, they can be incredibly uncomfortable.

Most people use Cocaine in a party scene and in combination with other drugs, specifically alcohol. This will only worsen the symptoms of a Cocaine hangover. Symptoms of a Cocaine hangover can be both physical and mental and can include:

    • Irritability
    • Sweating
    • Increased anxiety or depression
    • Headache
    • Runny nose
    • Body aches and pains 
    • Confusion
    • Lack of energy

It should be clear that a Cocaine hangover differs from Cocaine withdrawal. A Cocaine hangover can occur after a one-time use and typically only lasts a few hours or up to a day, while Cocaine withdrawal can last up to 10 days and is a direct result of chronic drug abuse. That is not to say the experience of a Cocaine hangover is an easy process. It can be incredibly distressing for the individual and cause mental health issues. 

Why is a Cocaine Comedown Risky?

The effects of using Cocaine have many risks as it is highly addictive and can result in fatal outcomes, and the comedown off this drug also has many risks. Cocaine alters the chemicals in the brain to produce feelings of euphoria and excitement, and when someone is experiencing a Cocaine hangover, the feelings will be the opposite of the drug. 

Cocaine comedowns can increase feelings of anxiety and depression and has the potential to lead to suicidal thoughts. Fortunately, Cocaine hangovers only last up to a day and there are ways to help the experience to be less miserable. 

Cocaine Hangover Tips

A Cocaine hangover can be compared to symptoms of the flu, in which case the best solutions to helping ease the uncomfortable feelings are simply to rest, drink plenty of water and fluids, eat a healthy meal, and avoid using more drugs and alcohol. Another useful tip for helping with a Cocaine hangover is to keep the mind distracted. Light exercise, talking with someone, or binge-watching Netflix can help the mind from getting more anxious or depressed. 

While there are ways to make the feeling less bad and replenish the body, the best way to cure a Cocaine hangover, is to not use the drug in the first place. This will prevent any dangerous outcomes such as drug overdose, drug addiction, or experiencing a Cocaine hangover or withdrawal symptoms. 

Physical Effects of a Cocaine Hangover

The physical effects of a Cocaine hangover can feel extremely unpleasant, however, the symptoms are likely to go away after a few hours or up to a day. Physical effects of a Cocaine hangover include: 

  • Excessive sweating
  • Sore face, jaw, or hands 
  • Irregular heartbeat 
  • Tightness in the chest 
  • Nasal dryness, irritation, or pain 

Depending on the route of administration (snorting, injecting, or smoking) the physical effects of a Cocaine hangover may vary. 

Mental and Emotional Effects of Cocaine Hangover

The mental and emotional effects of a Cocaine hangover could arguably be said to be worse than the physical effects. Drugs alter the brain chemicals and can change the way the user thinks and feels about their life. The mental and emotional effects of a Cocaine hangover include: 

  • Depression (including suicidal thoughts or attempts) 
  • Anxiety
  • Brain damage
  • Development of severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia or paranoia 
  • Hallucinations 

The mental and emotional effects of Cocaine hangovers and Cocaine withdrawal can be life-threatening and should be closely monitored. If you are experiencing the concerning effects of a Cocaine hangover, contact a medical or mental health professional today to help guide to in the right direction. 

How Much Cocaine is Too Much?

There is no easy answer to how much Cocaine is too much Cocaine, other than any amount is too much. Cocaine is an illegal stimulant drug that can cause devastating and life-threatening outcomes. Each person will react differently to Cocaine depending on their size, if the drug was cut or laced with other substances, the amount of Cocaine used, and the route of administration. Too much Cocaine laced Cocaine, or mixing it with other drugs can lead to an overdose which can result in a coma or death. 

Types of Treatment for Cocaine Hangover or Addiction 

There are several types of treatment options when experiencing a Cocaine hangover or Cocaine addiction. Both inpatient and outpatient programs will provide you with a safe detox environment as well as professional substance abuse therapy. 

If you or someone you know are experiencing a Cocaine hangover or has become addicted to Cocaine, help is available. Contact Lion Recovery today (888-616-3179) to ask about the best treatment options that fit your needs. Seek help before it is too late. 

Citations:

Addiction Center. “Cocaine Addiction and Abuse.” 

https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/cocaine/ Reviewed 14, September 2021 

American Addiction Center. “Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline & Detox Treatment 

Near Me.” https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/withdrawal Reviewed 25, October 2021

Categories
Drug Rehab

Buspar and Alcohol

Buspar is a prescribed medication for generalized anxiety disorder. On the other hand, alcohol is also used by individuals to try to treat anxiety or depression symptoms. Buspar can create feelings of relaxation and so can alcohol, but when used together there may be a deadly situation on the rise. 

Alcohol is used widely by many Americans each day, and substance and alcohol abuse disorders are on the rise. Anxiety disorders are also on the rise following the Covid 19 pandemic. This can cause people to seek out anti-anxiety medications or treatment but can also lead to people using alcohol with these medications. 

In this prompt, well discuss the possible effects of drinking alcohol while taking Buspar as well as the risks and treatment options available for addiction. 

Buspar and Alcohol: Are they Safe to Take Together? 

Why do people take Buspar?

Buspar can lessen the symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders. Generalized anxiety symptoms include:

  • Restlessness
  • Fatigue 
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability
  • Muscle tension
  • Sleep disturbances

If you are taking Buspar to treat your anxiety, you should be aware that drinking alcohol actually worsens anxiety symptoms. As the alcohol wears off, anxiety becomes increased because alcohol changes our serotonin transmitters in the brain. Medical professionals advise against drinking alcohol while taking Buspar for anxiety. 

What is Buspar? 

Buspar is commonly known as it’s generic brand name Buspirone. Buspar acts as an anti-anxiety medication such as Xanax or valium. While it does treat generalized anxiety disorder, it is its own class of medications and differs from benzodiazepines.

Buspar may make you feel dizzy, and you shouldn’t drive a vehicle until you know how this medication affects you. It may take up to four weeks to feel the medication working and you will know it is working when you are feeling less stressed. Buspar is taken twice a day with or without food.

Buspar has low abuse potential and a short half-life although it’s noted that you should avoid alcohol while taking Buspar because it can increase adverse effects. 

How Long Does Buspar Stay in Your System?

Taking Buspar with food can prolong the effects of Buspar in the body which can affect and lengthen the amount of time it’s in your system. Buspar has a short half-life which means it takes time for 50% of the drug to metabolize in your body.

 You will start to feel the effects of Buspar between 2 and 4 hours while it may take up to 20 hours to be out of your system. If you are going to drink alcohol, it’s important to wait at least an entire day until Buspar is out of your body. Buspar and alcohol use is not recommended because Buspar is taken twice a day every day.

What are the Side Effects of Buspar?

side effects of buspar

If you miss your dose of Buspar, you should take it as soon as you can remember but do not take it if its too close to the time when you take your second dose. It is never recommended to double dose; this can cause extreme dizziness and may lead to injuries or accidents. 

Some of the most common side effects of Buspar include:

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Changes in dreams
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Lightheadedness

You should also avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking Buspar because grapefruit juice can affect the way this medication works. 

Are There Any Serious Side Effects?

Buspar is considered safe when used as directed by your doctor, but it can have some more serious side effects. In some cases, ana allergic reaction can occur when taking Buspar and these symptoms include:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Hives
  • Swelling of lips/ face/ tongue
  • Chest pain
  • Irregular heartbeat 
  • Slurred speech
  • Confusion
  • Blurred Vision
  • Numbness in hands/feet/arms/legs
  • Tingling in hands/feet/arms/legs
  • Uncontrolled movements of arms/legs/tongue/lips

Serious side effects of Buspar may include changes in weight or appetite, fainting, changes in blood pressure, muscle cramps, muscle spasms, and redness or itching of the eyes. 

Can I Take Buspar with Alcohol?

People with anxiety may turn to alcohol to treat their symptoms although this can lead to alcohol abuse disorders. Mixing Buspar and alcohol leads to an increase of the effects of drowsiness that Buspar brings on. 

The interaction between alcohol in the body and Buspar can lead to increased drowsiness and dizziness which can be dangerous. Buspar creates changes in the brain and when you involve alcohol you can cause more harm to your system. Alcohol affects people differently so it’s important to talk to your doctor about the risks and you should consider avoiding alcohol completely.

What are the Alcohol and Buspar Side Effects?

While Buspar effects can cause drowsiness, upset stomach, headache, vomiting, and fatigue, drinking can worsen these symptoms and create more symptoms such as slowed breathing, impaired muscle control, memory problems, and increased sleepiness.

The side effects of Buspar and alcohol can be even more dangerous if you are older because this combination can lead to falls and accidents. 

Drinking may make you feel more relieved, but it can worsen anxiety and depression and will make Buspar not work properly. If you are taking Buspar for anxiety, its best to leave alcohol out of your life. 

Buspar and Alcohol Withdrawal

Buspar has been shown to be effective in preventing some of the symptoms that come with alcohol addiction withdrawal. Buspar can also reduce the alcohol cravings but his has not yet been approved but the US Food and Drug Administration.

Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include: 

  • Anxiety
  • Nervousness
  • Upset stomach
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Sleepiness

More serious symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may include:

  • Hallucinations
  • Disorientation
  • Increased heart rate 
  • High blood pressure
  • Agitation
  • Seizures

These symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can make it very difficult for a person to stop drinking. Combining Buspar and alcohol can cause these side effects to be more severe and harmful to your health. 

How Does Alcohol Interact with Buspar? 

When you combine Buspar and alcohol, your central nervous system (controls spine and brain) is affected. Your central nervous system is responsible for many voluntary and involuntary functions such as walking, talking, and breathing.

Buspar and alcohol use together can cause unwanted effects and will affect individuals differently. Other medications or illegal drugs can also affect you while taking Buspar. These medications include:

  • Diltiazem
  • Itraconazole
  • Rifampin
  • Erythromycin
  • Nefazodone
  • Verapamil

Older adults are at a higher risk because drugs process more slowly in the body. 

What Are the Typical Side Effects? 

Typical side effects of Buspar are headache, nausea, excitement, and nervousness. The central nervous system effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion. These are common side effects of Buspar although you should seek out medical help if you cannot breathe, see changes in your ability to walk, find yourself doing unusual things, or are having memory problems. 

Can you overdose on Buspar and alcohol?

Overdoses have occurred and can occur when mixing Buspar with alcohol, other medications, and/or other drugs. 

How to Find the Best Rehab Center for Buspar and Alcohol Abuse Treatment 

Have you found yourself using alcohol with Buspar, and are dealing with worsened anxiety symptoms? It may be time to focus on healing your anxiety and possibly getting treatment for alcohol abuse. The goal of Buspar is to help relieve you of extra worry and daily stress in life. Alcohol use can create more harm and psychological or mental problems. 

Are you ready to seek treatment for Buspar and alcohol abuse? Lion Recovery is one of the best rehabilitation centers in California and is ready to help you start your road to recovery. This process can take time, but with dedication and patience you can get back to feeling less anxiety after treatment. 

Lion Recovery offers medical detox, interventions, and relapse prevention to aid you in your treatment. You can visit their website here, Best Recovery Center In California – Lion Recovery or call them now for more information about getting started with treatment at (888) 616- 3179. 

Citations

2021. [online] Available at: https://www.goodrx.com/buspirone/alcohol-buspirone.

Healthline. 2021. Alcohol and Anxiety: Causes, Risks and Treatment. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol-and-anxiety#consequences.

Nami.org. 2021. Buspirone (BuSpar) | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness. [online] Available at: https://nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Buspirone-(BuSpar).

Walrus. 2021. How Long Does Buspirone Stay In Your System For?. [online] Available at: https://walrus.com/questions/how-long-does-buspirone-stay-in-your-system-for.

Wilson, T. and Tripp, J., 2021. Buspirone. [online] Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531477/.

Categories
Drug Rehab

The Ultimate Detox Guide: Everything You Need to Know Drugs and Its Detox Process

detox process

Is there a quick and easy way to detox from drugs? How do you detox your body from prescription drugs, meth, or heroin? Are these processes all the same? On the contrary, so many drugs create different sets of problems for users. There really is no quick fix to detox, it must be done correctly and efficiently to benefit you.

Detox can be done safely, with a team of addiction detox professionals and your commitment to sobriety. While there are many dangers to our mind and bodies from drug use, most of these effects can be reversed with rehab treatment and detox.

The Danger of Drugs

Drugs and alcohol affect us mentally, emotionally, developmentally, physically, and psychologically. While different drugs come with different dangers; all substances can lead to dependence, addiction, injury, accidents, health problems, sleep problems, and more.
Drug use affects not only the individual addicted, but all of those around that person. Cocaine use has been involved in nearly 1 in 5 overdose deaths and causes asthma, bowel decay, and HIV risk is increased with use.

 

Methamphetamine use can kill you on your first time using the drug. Meth speeds up our body’s systems to nearly dangerous levels and can cause anxiety, confusion, insomnia, paranoia, and aggression.

 

Prescription drugs such as Xanax, valium, Ritalin, or Ativan are the top overdose deaths in America and can cause immediate coma and brain damage. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration; SAMHSA, individuals between 15 and 25 are the heaviest users of these drugs while individuals ages 26 to 49 are on the rise of addiction due to COVID 19 pandemic stress.

What is Drug Detox Treatment?

You may have never heard of drug detox and are wondering what exactly drug detox treatment is. Drug and alcohol detox treatment is recommended as part of addiction recovery. Detox occurs before you enter rehab and works by eliminating drugs or alcohol from your system. It also works to pull out other harsh toxins from the body. Detox is defined as the process of ridding your body of all addictive drugs so your brain and body can slowly heal.

Medical detox is always recommended for treatment and depending on the individual you may detox from home under care or go into a detox center for 24-hour supervision for drug withdrawal. This provides a safe and comfortable setting for you to detox and reduce withdrawal symptoms under professional care.

What Type of Substances Require Detox Treatment?

Substances Require Detox Treatment

There are a variety of substances that can lead to addiction such as opioids, prescription medications, hallucinogens, benzodiazepines, heroin, methamphetamines, and more. Meth, cocaine, and heroin are some of the most addictive drugs in the United States.

Opioids such as oxytocin, Percocet, fentanyl, morphine, and codeine are all highly addictive and can lead to coma and death. There are also different addictive benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, Ativan and Librium. 44 Americans die from a prescription overdose every day.

About 85 million prescriptions of these types of drugs were written in 2007 and the numbers are much higher today. 16.6 million individuals aged 18 and older suffer from an alcohol abuse disorder. There are other addictions that can occur as well that don’t involve psychoactive drugs like gambling, shopping, etc.

How Long is the Drug Detox Process?

The length of stay at drug and alcohol detox programs varies on the individual and what substance they are using, how heavy the use and how dependent they are to the substance. Detox starts as soon as you stop using substances and this process may last a few days up to several weeks.

Post-acute withdrawal symptoms may occur with heavy drug or alcohol use and typically show signs a few weeks to a few months after using drugs. If you are considering drug detox services and want to know how to detox your body from drugs and how long that may take you should call a detox treatment center today.

How Long is a Detox Treatment Program?

There is no predetermined length of stay when you enter a drug rehab detox program. Treatment will vary based on:

 

  • What substance you use
  • How much of the substance you use
  • How often you use the substance
  • Withdrawal
  • Dependence
  • Tolerance
  • Co-occurring disorders
  • Mental health issues

 

You will be evaluated by a medical professional before starting detox to determine about how long detox will take but it is always subject to change. After detox, the next step is coming up with a treatment plan that best fits your needs, and this may include entering inpatient rehab or outpatient programs.

How Your Body Processes Drugs

Since different drugs have different uses, they will affect your body in different ways. All substances have short term and long term affects on the mind and body that can lead to more problems in life.

  • Depressants: These types of drugs slow the central nervous system and can make you feel relaxed although large doses can lead to vomiting, unconsciousness, and death
  • Hallucinogens: These will distort reality and can cause euphoria but may also cause jaw clenching, panic, or paranoia
  • Stimulants: While depressants slow the nervous system, stimulants speed it up making you feel more alert and confident. In large doses stimulants cause increased heart rate, agitation, and sleepiness.

Using these drugs can affect your mood, behaviors, and even your thoughts and how you make decisions.

How Long Will Drugs Stay in Your System?

The amount of time drugs or alcohol will stay in your system varies by:

  • Your age
  • Your weight
  • Your sex
  • Your physical health
  • Presence of other drugs in the body

According to the American Addiction Centers, these are averages from urine tests:

  • Heroin: 1-3 days in your system
  • Cocaine: 2-3 days in your system
  • Marijuana: 1-7 days in your system
  • Meth: 2-3 days in your system
  • MDMA: 2-4 days in your system

Many factors will lead to how long a drug will stay in your system because drugs are so very different from each other, and people are also different. Two people using the same drug may have completely different reactions.

The Dangers of Drug Detox

Have you wanted to detox from a drug, but want to know the dangers of detox? Maybe you have wondered how to detox your body from drugs in one day, or if that’s a safe or possible option.

Drug detox can be very dangerous especially if done alone at home. Detoxing at home without the monitoring from medical addiction professionals can lead to a life-threatening situation. Drug withdrawal can bring severe pain and discomfort and you may need pain medications and medical help during your detox.

How do medical professionals reduce harm during detox?

  • Provides medical and psychological strategies to ease pain from drug withdrawal
  • Manages your needs during withdrawal
  • Provides medications for pain
  • 24-hour monitoring for your safety and comfort

It is never a good idea to try to detox your body from drugs and alcohol at home without medical help. Outpatient detox may be possible, but it will still involve medical providers assisting you.

What’s the Best Drug Detox for Me?

If you are a heavy chronic drug user, you will want to search for a detox center that provides medications for the pain that will come from withdrawing. If you have a milder drug addiction, you may not need to use the same type of detox program and may only need outpatient detox.

The best drug detox treatment program for you is one that will cater to all your needs based on your personal addiction and background. Some detox treatment centers specialize in one specific drug while others may cater to several types or may even provide detox for all substances and individuals with co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis.

Finding a Professional Drug and Alcohol Detox Center

Lion Recovery in Los Angeles provides a safe and reliable medical detox program. You can visit their website here: Best Recovery Center In California – Lion Recovery. Lion recovery creates a welcoming space for those who have suffered from the many negative effects of drug addiction and are ready to help you overcome and start your recovery.

Lion Recovery can be contacted via there website or by phone right now at (888) 616-3179. A positive aspect about Lion Recovery is that they not only provide detox services, but also will help with providing interventions for loved ones with substance addiction.

Citations

Recovery.org. 2021. Alcohol and Drug Detox Process | Recovery.com. [online] Available at: https://www.recovery.org/addiction/detox-process/.
2021. [online] Available at: https://www.samhsa.gov/adult-drug-use.
DrugAbuse.com. 2021. Dangers of Alcohol and Drug Detox at Home | Drugabuse.com. [online] Available at: https://drugabuse.com/treatment/detox/dangers-at-home/.
The Recovery Village Drug and Alcohol Rehab. 2021. Drugs That Require Medicaly-Assisted Detox | The Recovery Village. [online] Available at: https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/treatment-program/medical-detox/related/drugs-requiring-medically-assisted-detox/.
Betterhealth.vic.gov.au. 2021. How drugs affect your body – Better Health Channel. [online] Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/How-drugs-affect-your-body.
American Addiction Centers. 2021. How Long Do Drugs Stay In Your System? (Drug Half-Life & Drug Tests). [online] Available at: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/how-long-drugs-system.
Recovery, C. and Addiction, E., 2021. Addiction Statistics. [online] Addiction Center. Available at: https://www.addictioncenter.com/addiction/addiction-statistics/.

Categories
Drug Rehab

How Alcohol Abuse Treatment Plans Can Help Your Loved One

alcohol abuse treatment plan

When a person decides it is time to seek help for an alcohol use disorder, one of the most helpful steps will be creating an Alcohol Abuse Treatment Plan with either a medical provider or a mental health professional. These treatment plans are made specifically for the individual and can include expectations, goals, possible triggers and coping skills and allows for you to track your own progress throughout recovery. Following are the key benefits of an Alcohol Abuse Treatment Plan:

  1. Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms are treated under the supervision of rehab experts
  2. All kinds of physical and medical needs of the patients are taken care of in the best way possible
  3. 24/7 care is provided to the patients
  4. Social and family needs of the patients are taken care of in an alcohol abuse treatment plan

We all know seeking help for an addiction can be a scary and vulnerable thing to do, but with the help and support of intervention programs and with an Alcohol Abuse Treatment Plan, recovery can be on the horizon. Lions Recovery is a Drug and Alcohol Intervention Treatment Center and provides the best care to those brave enough to seek help.

Understanding Alcohol Detox

Alcohol withdrawal is certainly not a fun experience, and it is no surprise that the symptoms that come with it are often the reason many people chose to continue to drink. But you must detox the alcohol from your system before the symptoms go away. People often ask, “how do you help someone detox from alcohol at home?” The truth is, depending on the severity of the addiction, successful at home detox is not very common. The symptoms can be painful and extremely uncomfortable, which oftentimes leads a person to drink just to feel normal again. 

Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal that occur during the detox phase can range from mild to severe, to sometimes even fatal. 

Some of the mild symptoms may include:

  • Increased anxiety 
  • Sweating
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea 
  • Headaches 
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability 

More severe and dangerous symptoms include: 

  • Tremors
  • Seizures 
  • Disorientation 
  • Hallucinations 

Delirium tremens is the most serious and life threatening symptoms of Alcohol Detox withdrawal syndrome and can include compulsions, confusion, high blood pressure and fever and can be fatal. If a person experiences any types of severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, call 911 immediately to seek medical attention.

Goals of These Drug and Alcohol Intervention Programs

With any addiction (Drug Addiction, Alcohol Addiction), the goal is to maintain sobriety and learn how to live a healthy life without drugs or alcohol in the mix. The first step to providing help to a loved one in need, is holding an intervention. Lion’s Recovery ensures that only the most appropriate members are involved in the intervention. The purpose of the intervention is to express your concern for the addiction while showing you want the individual to seek the help they deserve and need. After this, and the person with the addiction agrees to get help, the road to recovery has officially begun.

Within these drug and alcohol intervention programs, the person seeking help will learn the skills needed to prevent possible relapse and build resilience to break free from their addiction. Then, with a medical or mental health professional, you will create an alcohol abuse treatment plan and be able to monitor and track any progress made. 

Phase 2 Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Occur in 3 stages. Stage 1 includes the more common symptoms of withdrawal, the ones you have probably experienced several times before. This includes increased anxiety, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, stomach pain or nausea. 

Phase 2 alcohol withdrawal symptoms are far more serious and uncomfortable. These symptoms include increased heart rate, confusion, mood swings, sweating, increased body temperature and blood pressure. These symptoms usually occur within the first several days of detox and can feel miserable. Therefore, seeking help from a medical professional or alcohol abuse facility can increase your chances of successful detox.

Nobody likes to feel irritable or shaky and alcohol is typically used to avoid the feelings of depression and anxiety. It is so important to remember though, that alcohol is a depressant, and although it can temporarily make you feel better mentally and act as an escape from reality, you will eventually have to face your problems. 

How Can Alcohol Withdrawal be Fatal?

Most chronic alcoholics can tell you that it is easier to slam a beer than it is to experience the symptoms that happen with alcohol withdrawal. Therefore, many alcoholics never seek help. If you are a long term, heavy drinker, then having a successful alcohol detox is nearly impossible without the help and support of a medical provider or an alcohol treatment program. Or what is worse, it can even be fatal to do on your own. 

When enough alcohol is being consumed on a daily basis, our bodies naturally become dependent on the drug for survival. Then, when the heavy drinker suddenly stops pouring alcohol into their body, the body begins to think it cannot survive without the booze, which results in some of the more serious and severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. 

If a person experiences symptoms of delirium tremens, they are at high risk of dying from alcohol detox. Delirium tremens can cause heart attacks, strokes, or withdrawal seizures, all of which can be deadly. If you or a loved one is at risk of experiencing any of the severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, seek medical help immediately as it can save a person’s life. 

How Long Does It Take for Alcohol Dependency to Develop?

If only there were a simple answer for how long it takes for alcohol dependency to develop. If there were, many people would probably try to actively stop before reaching dependency. However, there are many different factors that can contribute to how quickly a person becomes dependent and sometimes, a person can be very unaware of the dependency.

For instance, having a family history of alcoholism can play a massive role in how quickly a person becomes dependent. Also, how often and how much a person drinks will determine how fast the body starts to believe it needs the alcohol to survive. The age someone started drinking and if they are frequent binge drinkers also plays a role in this. A person might never have struggled with alcohol dependency, but after a tragic life event (losing a job, divorce, family loss, etc.), they may quickly develop a dependency. 

Every person is different, and with there being so many different factors, there is no simple answer to how long it takes to become alcohol dependent. The important thing to remember is that it can happen to anyone. Any person of any size, ethnicity, race, social class, etc. can develop alcohol dependence simply by choosing to drink heavily on a regular basis. If you feel you have become alcohol dependent, contact Lions Recovery to start your journey to a sober life. 

What To Do After Detox

Once you have made it through the detox phase, the hardest and most painful part is done. Now, it is time to focus on maintaining sobriety and building resilience. Programs such as AA or alcohol addiction treatment centers can help support you throughout your recovery journey. Group or individual therapy is highly advised to learn new coping strategies, learn to heal from past traumas or experiences, and find new hobbies and activities that you enjoy doing. 

Today’s society does not make it easy for those in recovery to live a sober life, considering most Americans drink in some way or another. So having a community of support is crucial for maintaining sobriety. Connection is, in fact, the opposite of addiction. Once you have formed strong connections with other like-minded people, (through AA or group therapy, workout groups, school, work, etc.) living a sober life will not be as hard as it seems. 

Lions Recovery (888-616-3179) is here for you to start your journey to recovery. Call Us Today to change your life and break free from your addiction. 

Categories
Drug Rehab

Top Qualities of the Best Alcohol Drug Rehab Centers in California

traits of a best alcohol and drug rehab center

With substance use disorder affecting nearly 21 million Americans, it can be difficult trying to find the Best Alcohol Drug Rehab Centers that fit all of your needs. Being aware of your own addiction can come as a struggle, so understanding the different options for treatment can help you have a higher chance of a successful recovery. Whether you or a loved one are seeking help for an addiction, here are the things that you should check before choosing the Best Alcohol Drug Rehab Centers in the US:

  1. Careful screening for Drug Abuse Disorders and Mental Health Conditions
  2. Respectful Environment that considers Substance Abuse Disorder a chronic disease
  3. 24/7 Care for the patients
  4. Quality Aftercare Services to ensure a long term recovery

These are few of the qualities that your should check before finalizing a Best Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in US, california. Now lets

Understand Alcohol Drug Rehab Facility

It is important to note that rehab alone is not going to treat your addiction. It is up to you to stay committed and put in the work, while being supported by mental health and medical professionals. Addiction rehab centers typically consists of four phases:

  • Intake
  • Detox
  • Rehabilitation
  • Aftercare recovery

Drug Alcohol Rehab Centers consist of intensive therapy to help you learn more about the root of the addiction, while helping you create a plan for relapse prevention and gain the skills to engage in the world without the help of drugs or alcohol.

Qualities to See in Alcohol Drug Rehab Facility

qualities of a good rehab center

When researching and deciding which alcohol drug rehab centers may be the best fit for you, there are some important qualities to look out for.

  1. Screening for substance use disorder AND other mental health conditions

    More often than not, when someone is battling an addiction, there is likely to be other co-occurring disorders involved such as depression or anxiety. When there are other issues involved, it is crucial that the individual is screened accurately in order to get the best treatment for all disorders, not just the addiction.

  2. Emphasis on ongoing or after recovery care

    Substance use disorder is a mental health condition, and there are still risks for relapse even after a person has completed an addiction treatment program. The best alcohol rehab centers will provide you with plenty of aftercare resources, such as peer support groups, recovery homes, or other community recovery options in your area.

  3. A respectful environment that views addiction as a chronic condition

    Seeking professional help forces a person to be incredibly vulnerable and open to change. Shame and feelings of isolation are often associated with addiction and recovery. It is crucial that the addiction rehab center you choose views addiction as a mental health disorder, and treats all persons with respect and patience.

Some other basic rules of thumb to consider might be whether family/friends involvement is allowed, the qualification or professionalism of the staff, and how the rehab approaches gender or cultural differences. After all, you are seeking help for yourself and you should be getting the best level of care possible.

Size of the Treatment Facility or Type of Centers

types of rehab facility

There is no definite size of different alcohol drug rehab centers, because they all vary. The Best Alcohol Drug Rehab Centers will have a variety of mental health and medical professionals such as licensed therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, registered nurses, and peer specialists.

There are four basic types of centers:

  • Outpatient Treatment: Individual lives on their own and regularly attends a group program led by substance use or mental health professionals.
  • Inpatient Treatment: Individual lives within hospital and receives highly intensive care for their addiction.
  • Residential Treatment: Individual lives at and receives highly intensive care in a non hospital setting.
  • Recovery/Sober-Living Housing: Individual lives in a supervised recovery home and regularly attends a group program on substance use disorder.

Types of Treatment Services

Depending on the type of rehab center you decide to use, treatment services may vary. Treatment typically includes both individual and group therapy as well as group treatment programs to learn more about your addiction, coping skills, triggers and how to better your overall mental health.

Some Addiction Rehab Centers will include a variety of activities to engage in such as art therapy or daily yoga to practice mindfulness. Before choosing a drug and alcohol rehab center, research the Types of Treatment Services offered within the facility and choose based on what you think could work for you.

How Long is Treatment?

Before talking about how long the different treatment options are, it is important to note that recovery is an ongoing process, and just because the treatment has ended, does not mean the work you put in ends.

Outpatient treatment lasts anywhere from 3-6 months while inpatient programs typically last a month to up to 6 months. Residential treatment can either be long term (6-12 months), or short term (3-6 weeks).

Location of the Treatment Services

There are different drug alcohol rehab centers all throughout the United States and Los Angeles has hundreds of options for addiction treatment. Lion Recovery is an addiction treatment center located in LA that provides interventions, medical detox, and relapse prevention.

Low or No-cost Treatment Centers

The cost of addiction treatment centers can be expensive, and oftentimes acts as a barrier to seeking the help you need. Luckily, there are some low or no-cost treatment options. Programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous are two free group meeting options to help maintain sobriety. There are also different free or low-cost self help groups in different communities such as trauma and addiction groups or managing PTSD and addiction. A simple Google search can help you find affordable treatment options for your addiction.

The Salvation Army

One awesome option for those who are seeking recovery at a free or low cost, is The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army provides free rehab programs and has some of the best drug and alcohol rehab centers in the US. Through holistic therapy and group and individual therapy the Salvation Army can help you seek recovery at a no-fee cost.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous, otherwise known as AA, is another free option for seeking and maintaining alcohol abstinence. Through the 12-step program, individuals come together and share stories about their journey while working towards the same goal of sobriety. AA meetings are typically available anywhere in the US at no cost. This is an excellent way to have a sense of community and meet others who struggle with alcohol addiction.

Addiction Treatment for Veterans

Most veterans suffer with various mental health issues, and specifically addiction. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides many different addiction treatment options for those who served in the U.S. military. The VA provides veterans with outpatient treatment, different forms of counseling, self help groups, residential care, and many more.

Most veterans suffer with symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression and it is important that if you are seeking help for addiction, to find an addiction treatment center that treats co-occurring disorders as well.

How to Make Drug Addiction Treatment More Affordable

ways to finance a drug rehab facility

The cost of addiction rehab centers can add up quickly, and is often the reason many people do not seek out help. But some of the best alcohol drug rehab centers will work with you, to ensure the treatment is affordable and accessible. Oftentimes, insurance will cover the cost of treatment. Some drug addiction treatment centers will even offer payment plans to cover the cost. Some people may be connected with a private sponsor which can help cover the cost of treatment. Make sure to ask about payment options when searching for the best alcohol drug rehab centers.

The cost of rehab can be expensive, but should never stop you from receiving the care you deserve to live a drug free life. 

Final Verdict If We Should Go To A Drug Rehab Facility Or Not

Whether you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, Lion Recovery will provide you with the best support and care to break free from the addiction. Addiction can be a dark place, but you do not have to go through it alone. Contact Lion Recovery (888-616-3179) today to start your journey to recovery.

Citations

Addiction Center. “Addiction Statistics.”

  1. Process.” https://rehabs.com/addiction/the-rehabilitation-process/ Received 18, October 2021
  2. Recovery Research Institute. “Special Topics and Resources.”
  3. Start Your Recovery. “What is Rehab?”
  4. National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Types of Treatment Programs” Reviewed January 2018
Categories
Drug Rehab

Long-Term Effects of Drug Addiction

long term effect of drug addiction

There are many different effects of drug abuse, both physically and mentally. No matter the drug, long term-use can cause life-threatening and body damaging effects. However, when a person is deep in a drug addiction, their health and well-being is not their priority; finding their next fix is. Drug Addiction Treatment Centers, such as Lion Recovery, can help you understand What Are the Long Term Effects of Drugs and recover from a short or long-term addiction.  

Drug addiction rehab centers help to educate individuals and family members on different topics such as:  

  • How drug addiction starts 
  • Signs of drug addiction  
  • Different effects of drug abuse 
  • What are the Long-term Effects of Drugs

 Long term drug use can cause following damages: 

  1.  Psychological Effects: Kidney Damage, liver damage, cardiovascular system damage, respiratory system damage, and intestinal damage 
  2. Effects on Physical Health: Depression, brain structure damage, memory loss, and paranoia 

 Lion Recovery is here to help individuals recover from their addiction and start living a healthier life of their choosing.  

How Does Drug Addiction Start 

We all know that addiction leads you down a dark path of behaving in ways you may not have without the drugs. But no one chooses to become an addict. We do not wake up one day and decide we want to be addicted to cocaine or meth. So how does drug addiction start for an individual? If only the answer were simple.  

One common reason people often become addicted to drugs is this feeling of pressure from others. For instance, feeling you need to fit in or use the drug because some of your friends are. Except maybe those friends using it, only use it while at parties because of the extra dopamine or “feel good hormone” being released and meanwhile you are now needing that feeling and the drugs to feel normal on just your average day. What was once just a party drug for you, has now become an essential part of your life.  

 Some other risk factors for starting an addiction include:  

  • Genetics/hereditary link to addiction  
  • Exposure to drugs 
  • Family history of addiction or mental health 
  • Mental health issues 
  • High stress lifestyle 

We use drugs because of the feeling they give us, of excitement, maybe pain relief, or as a way to “escape the world.” The feelings of drug use however, are only temporary, while the consequences can be forever.  

What are the Long Term Effects on Drug Addiction? 

Long term drug abuse affects all parts of the human body and can lead to life-long disabilities and struggles. Drug use can cause physical health concerns such as kidney or liver damage, as well as psychological problems like increased anxiety or depression.  

Drug addiction can also cause problems with relationships, professional work or career goals, finances and can lead a person to get in trouble with the law. When someone is addicted to drugs, their drug of choice is the most important part of their life which often causes many broken and damaged relationships, lost jobs, DUI’s, misdemeanors or felonies, etc.  

 Effects on Physical Health 

Using drugs can take a major toll on a person’s physical health. For instance, using drugs, especially for a long period of time, weakens the immune system, leading addicts to be far more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Different drugs also cause increased or slowed heart rate, which can result in heart conditions such as heart attacks or heart failure. With drug use, often comes changes in appetite which results in weight loss. If you have known a drug addict, then you have probably seen them lose weight very rapidly.  

Our bodies need nutrients and exercise and chances are, if you are addicted to drugs of any sort, you are not taking care of your body the way it needs.   

Effects of Drug Addiction

Kidney Damage 

Many drugs can have damaging effects on the kidneys, which are vital parts of our organ system. Drugs like heroin, MDMA, different steroids, and tobacco can harm and damage this organ. Drugs dehydrate the human body which can cause kidney damage. In the most severe situations, long term drug use can cause kidney failure.   

Liver Damage 

Damage to the liver is also an effect from long term drug use. Alcohol is the most commonly known drug that will cause major damage to the liver, but drugs like heroin, inhalants, or steroids can also cause the liver to be harmed and sometimes fail.  

 Cardiovascular System Damage 

Some of the scariest and most life threatening side effects of drug abuse are damages to the cardiovascular system. Long term drug use can lead to abnormal heart rates and heart attacks, which we know can lead to death. Injecting drugs can lead to damaged and collapsed veins and heart valves. We need a healthy heart for a healthy life! 

Respiratory System Damage  

Smoking drugs of any sorts can cause lung problems which lead to respiratory system damage. Smoking tobacco, marijuana, crack cocaine, etc. can put you at higher risk of developing chronic conditions such as bronchitis or emphysema and also lung cancer. But respiratory system issues can still occur when taking drugs in other ways, such as orally or injecting, as it can cause breathing to be slowed down and worsen symptoms of asthma.   

Intestinal Damage 

Most drugs, or withdrawal from drugs can cause nausea or vomiting. Long term drug abuse can cause intestinal damage which can be hard to reverse even after seeking help from a drug addiction rehab center. Drugs are known to damage and decay inside the stomach, or the intestines. Side effects of drug abuse include changes in appetite, constipation and chronic stomach pain.  

Effects on Psychological Health 

Some of the most concerning and sometimes frightening side effects of drug abuse are changes to the psychological health of a person. When substance use and abuse become a form of coping with day to day life, there is no doubt there are some psychological issues present. Long term drug use changes the way our brains and body’s function which can cause depression, anxiety, and even more severe and mood-altering mental illness such as bipolar disorder and psychosis.  

Isolation or changed behavior can be signs of drug addiction. Psychological health issues can be life-threatening, and it is crucial that if you or a loved one is showing any signs of depression, anxiety, paranoia or any other mental health concern as a result of drug use, to seek help from a drug addiction treatment center immediately. Lion Recovery is an excellent Drug Addiction Treatment in Los Angeles that can help stop your addiction before lifelong symptoms develop.   

Depression 

Drugs are used as a way to uplift our moods and feel happier with our lives, so it is no surprise that unless you are feeling the drugs, depression starts to kick in. Long term drug use typically leads to broken and damaged relationships, financial struggles, lack of sufficient income, etc. and the main purpose of life for a drug addict is getting more drugs to make them feel better. But untreated chronic depression of a drug addict can lead to suicide.  

Addiction is a dark place to be in and it is easy to feel isolated and helpless. But drug addiction recovery can help you find joy in your life again with a sober, clear mind.  

Memory Damage 

Drugs alter the way our brains function and long term drug use can cause memory damage, as well as issues with concentrating and retaining new information. Problems with memory can be even more concerning when a mental illness is also present. Drugs change the way we act and behave and while we may not fully remember what happened while under the influence, memory damage from drug use can last a lifetime, and have a massive effect on a person’s life.   

Paranoia  

Many people are unaware of the seriousness paranoia can cause on a person’s well-being after long term drug use. Paranoia is a symptom of personality and psychotic disorders such as psychosis but can also be a symptom of dementia caused by drug use. Paranoia can cause a person to self-isolate, be distrusting of everyone around and lead them into a depressive state. Seeking help for the drug addiction can help prevent substance induced disorders leading to paranoia.  

Brain Structure 

Long term drug use can cause permanent damage to the brain and change the way we think and behave. They affect the parts of the brain that are needed for basic and essential activities such as driving a car or cooking a meal. The most concerning part of the brain that becomes affected after long term drug use is the basal ganglia, which makes us feel pleasure. When we use drugs for long periods of time, our basal ganglia will have a tough time feeling pleasure from anything besides the drug.  

Other parts of our brain become affected from long term drug use and can cause increased anxiety in social settings, and cause issues in decision making or problem solving. The brain is an incredibly smart organ but drugs can cause life long damages if used for long periods of time.  

Can Addiction Cause Permanent Damage to the Body? 

Addiction is a very serious disease and typically requires medical and mental health professional treatment. If drugs are used for long periods of time, they can cause permanent damages to many parts of the body. So, is addiction a disability? It can certainly lead to one. 

Drug abuse causes both physical and mental health problems and alters the way our brains work, and sometimes these consequences cannot be reversed. Heart, liver, or kidney failure are all permanent conditions that can be caused by drug abuse. Seek help from a drug addiction rehab center before it is too late.   

How to Overcome from Addiction? 

overcoming addiction

The first step to overcome an addiction is to acknowledge the fact that you have an addiction. Asking for help can feel scary and vulnerable but speaking to a trusted friend or a crisis hotline is the next step to seeking recovery. Drug addiction treatment centers will provide you with all the support needed to understand your addiction and help you recover from the disease, in hopes of learning to live a happy, sober life.  

Why Choose Lion Recovery?  

Lion Recovery is a Drug Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles, California and provides medical detox and interventions, and relapse prevention. Lion Recovery is staffed with several mental health and medical professionals that provide education and support throughout the entire recovery journey. Lion Recovery understands the struggles that come with breaking free from an addiction, and wants you to know you are not alone on your journey.  

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, contact Lion Recovery (888-616-3179) today to start living a drug-free life.