Childhood Trauma Connection to Addiction
Childhood Trauma Connection to Addiction
What is Childhood Trauma?
Trauma occurs due to events that cause physical or emotional harm to a child, leaving them scared, confused, helpless, and betrayed. This can lead to a breakdown of trust in parental or authority figures. If the child lacks the ability or support to cope with such events, a trauma disorder may develop.
Childhood trauma can stem from various sources, including different forms of child abuse like physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. Other causes of childhood trauma may include emotional or physical neglect, the loss of a parent or loved one, bullying, or experiencing a serious illness. Additionally, being part of or witnessing a severe accident, acts of war, domestic violence, natural disasters, community violence, or school violence can also lead to childhood trauma.
Additional experiences that cause trauma in children include:
- Having a parent who used drugs in the home.
- Having a mentally ill parent in the home.
- Having a parent in jail or prison.
- Criminal behavior in the living environment.
The Effects of Childhood Trauma on the Brain
Childhood trauma can have a major effect on the developing brain, raising the likelihood of addiction in later years. According to Brain Facts, trauma can cause physical harm to a child's brain, leading to toxic stress. This toxic stress, when intense, lasting, and frequent, can reshape and modify various parts of the brain through neuroplasticity. These modifications impact the functioning of the brain's prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and anterior cingulate cortex, influencing the individual's capacity to manage and control their emotions.
How Does Childhood Trauma Affect the Adult Brain?
There are many ways that childhood trauma affects the adult brain. Here are several of them.
- An ongoing activation of the amygdala raises the risk of developing both mental health disorders and substance use disorders simultaneously.
- Repetitive traumatic experiences can cause the amygdala to be overstimulated, resulting in a constant state of fear, anxiety, and hypervigilance for the individual.
- Childhood trauma can activate the brain's fight-or-flight reaction in the absence of a threat.
- When the fight-or-flight response is activated in non-threatening situations, the individual experiences hyperarousal, characterized by an excessive startle reaction, sleep disturbances, and increased irritability.
- Childhood trauma often leads adults to avoid places, events, things, or situations that trigger memories of the traumatic event. This can disrupt their daily functioning.
- Childhood trauma frequently leads to negative self-talk and a negative self-image, as the person holds a negative perception of themselves.
Why Does Trauma Often Lead to Addiction?
Individuals who have undergone childhood trauma frequently resort to alcohol consumption or drug use as a form of self-medication to alleviate the physical and emotional distress resulting from their traumatic experiences in childhood. However, the solace derived from substance use is transient. Persistent attempts to seek solace through substance use can rapidly lead to addiction, adversely affecting the individual's physical and mental well-being. Ultimately, substance use disorders exacerbate the impact of trauma and amplify symptoms of trauma-related disorders.
If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. Find out At Transformations by the Gulf How Mind-Altering Substances Work, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.
If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help. Find out more information from Psychology Today!
How Mind-Altering Substances Work
How Mind-Altering Substances Work
What is Chemical Dependency?
Chemical dependency is a condition marked by dependence on substances that alter mood or mind, like alcohol, illicit drugs, and specific prescription medications. It is a long-lasting, advancing, and possibly life-threatening illness. Chemical dependency can negatively impact your physical health, career, familial connections, and social relationships.
How Do Alcohol and Other Mind-Altering Drugs Work?
Alcohol and drugs are substances that alter bodily functions. When introduced into the body (typically through ingestion, inhalation, or injection), they enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body. These substances can impact sensory perception, alertness levels, and pain sensitivity in the brain. The effects of drugs vary based on factors such as the type of drug, dosage, frequency of use, rate of absorption into the brain, and concurrent consumption of other substances. Additionally, individual differences in body composition and chemistry can influence the effects. Prolonged use of psychoactive substances leads to changes in brain activity, causing a dependence on these substances for normal functioning rather than just for pleasure. This reliance signifies a state of chemical dependency.
Get Help Today
If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. Find out At Transformations by the Gulf How Mind-Altering Substances Work, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.
If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help. Find out more information from Psychology Today!
Fear of the Unknown in Recovery
Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?
If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help. Find out more information from Psychology Today!
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.
Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.
If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
Recovering Alcoholics Shouldn’t Drink Kombucha
Recovering Alcoholics Shouldn’t Drink Kombucha
Kombucha is popular among yoga instructors and health enthusiasts and is being praised as a miraculous elixir. However, for individuals recovering from alcohol or drug addiction, the presence of natural alcohol in kombucha can pose a concern, despite its minimal amount. It is not recommended for consumption if you are in recovery and can be viewed as a relapse.
Alcoholics Anonymous serves as a supportive environment for individuals in recovery, where achievements of all sizes are acknowledged, and accountability is upheld by peers striving towards sobriety. However, the presence of minimal alcohol content in beverages such as kombucha can present a dilemma for certain members. Kombucha may or may not contain wondrous healing powers, as many of its most devoted drinkers claim, but it contains booze.
Kombucha with less than 0.5% ABV, classified as non-alcoholic by the TTB, undergoes a primary fermentation period lasting from five to 30 days, depending on taste preferences. During this phase, the sugar content decreases, resulting in a more vinegary taste. The secondary fermentation occurs when the kombucha is bottled and left to enhance its flavor and carbonation, potentially increasing the ABV levels to up to 2.5%. To achieve ABV levels exceeding 3%, the drink must undergo a third fermentation by incorporating grains, leading to the creation of what brewers refer to as "kombucha ale" or "probiotic beer."
In 2010, It was found that some Kombucha was testing at upwards of 3% alcohol content and had to be pulled from shelves in Whole Foods stores. This is why you are walking a tightrope with your recovery if you plan to consume kombucha when in recovery.
Get Help Today
If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.
What Is a Sober Living?
What Is a Sober Living?
A sober living home is a communal residence run by peers that aims to support individuals in staying sober. This is accomplished by adhering to sobriety regulations, attending recovery meetings, and actively engaging in household tasks. Residents of these homes rent rooms on a long-term basis and lead a lifestyle aligned with their commitments, such as employment and education.
If you or a friend has recently stopped consuming alcohol and is now sober, congratulations. Ceasing alcohol intake can be a challenging process. Now that the detox stage is complete and you have finished your time at a rehabilitation facility, you may be curious about what comes next upon returning home. This phase can be crucial for your sobriety. Treatment programs generally provide structure and routines that aid in maintaining sobriety. Losing this support after completing the program can pose a risk to your recovery.
Discover the role of a sober living house in supporting individuals on the path to recovery from addiction. These residences offer a structured environment and assistance for individuals in the healing process. They serve as a transitional setting between formal treatment and reintegration into society. Explore the concept of sober living houses, their origins, variations, suitable candidates, and methods for locating one.
Sober Living Houses
The majority of individuals living in these residences have just finished a program for treatment, either as an inpatient or outpatient. Exiting the treatment regimen can greatly impact your sobriety, which is why these programs have rigorous schedules consisting of counseling, group therapy, and engaging activities. Although a sober living home does not provide counseling sessions, it does offer a supportive environment and a sense of routine to assist in sustaining sobriety. Furthermore, maintaining your sobriety usually necessitates a living space that is devoid of substances. Sober living facilities are commonly seen as a pathway for sober individuals to reintegrate into mainstream society.
The History of Sober Living Houses
Sober living houses were established in the late 1940s by active members of Alcoholics Anonymous, who created a living environment based on the "12-step" program. These residences, usually located in low-income areas, had strict rules about sobriety and mandatory attendance at AA meetings, held both in the house and nearby community centers. Since their inception, sober living houses have adapted to better serve individuals in recovery. Today, sober living organizations streamline the process of finding suitable housing, and there are also numerous independent sober living houses that have maintained similar protocols to those established in the late 1940s.
Types of Sober Living Houses
There are a few types of sober living houses:
- Traditional sober living home, residents pay a monthly rent, attend recovery meetings, maintain sobriety, and contribute to household tasks.
- Sober re-entry program, also called halfway houses, sober living residences are commonly suggested for individuals who were previously incarcerated. Some may still be on parole, completing their sentences under supervision outside of prison. Parole often mandates drug-free status, making a sober living residence crucial. These initiatives provide support during the reintegration process. While some programs are not exclusively tailored for former inmates, they follow strict guidelines and have on-site staff. Many programs impose a maximum length of stay.
- Transitional housing programs, these are facilities where individuals who were once homeless can reside as they work towards stability and finding permanent housing. Certain transitional housing programs may request evidence of sobriety.
Get Help Today
If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.
Setting Goals in Early Recovery
Setting Goals in Early Recovery
Realistic and clearly defined goals can support an individual in the recovery journey. Employing the SMART formula when setting goals enhances the likelihood of success. Addiction recovery is a lengthy process punctuated by various milestones. Establishing goals facilitates progression through different stages without stagnation. While the ultimate aim in recovery is to attain and sustain sobriety, breaking down this larger objective into smaller, achievable goals is beneficial. Examples of goals in substance abuse recovery encompass enrolling in rehabilitation, seeking medical guidance, completing a treatment regimen, and participating in support groups.
Importance of Goal Setting in Recovery
Recovery offers a new beginning, but transformation requires patience, and individuals will not instantly experience a different life once they complete drug or alcohol detox. Setting goals during recovery can assist individuals in determining the steps necessary to progress from their current situation to their desired future.
The benefits of setting goals in recovery include:
- Helping someone focus on the present and future.
- Not dwelling on the past.
- Developing patience and a good work ethic.
- Creating a sense of pride when people reach their goals.
Additional research indicates that acquiring the skill of setting attainable objectives can aid individuals in decreasing alcohol and substance abuse. Upon embarking on a sober path, individuals might discover an increase in available time, finances, and vitality to pursue novel activities. This newfound lifestyle may inspire a desire to cultivate fresh abilities and explore uncharted avenues. Objectives in recovery are not limited solely to sobriety-related strategies but can encompass various aspects of life, including interpersonal connections, employment prospects, spiritual growth, and financial well-being enhancement.
Step-by-Step Goal Setting
Individuals in recovery can enhance their likelihood of success by implementing incremental goal-setting. Before establishing objectives, engaging in self-reflection is beneficial. This involves contemplating current life aspects that are enjoyable, desired changes, future aspirations, and preferred activities. As addiction recovery goals are unique to each individual, disparities among goals are acceptable. SMART is an acronym that stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound. When people set goals using this formula, they are more likely to take actions that help them get where they want to go.
Sticking to Your Recovery Goals
Creating goals is simple, but adhering to them can be challenging. Fortunately, there are various strategies individuals can employ to maintain their focus. One key tip is to avoid setting overly ambitious goals. Attempting to achieve too many objectives simultaneously often leads to failure. Concentrating on a couple of goals at a time reduces the risk of burnout and increases the likelihood of success. An effective method for sticking to goals is to write them down. Documenting goals makes them easier to monitor and enhances the chances of accomplishment. For instance, setting deadlines on a calendar serves as a helpful reminder.
Surrounding oneself with supportive individuals can also boost goal achievement. Forming accountability partnerships with like-minded individuals can provide encouragement and motivation. Moreover, asking loved ones to check in on progress can help individuals stay committed to their goals. For example, a person striving for sobriety may request random drug tests from their family members to deter relapse. Successful addiction recovery involves adaptability. Falling short of a goal does not equate to failure but signals the need for a revised plan. External factors, such as illness, can disrupt progress, and it is acceptable to readjust goals accordingly, as long as efforts resume when circumstances normalize.
Get Help Today
If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Rehab Path to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.
What Happens If I Relapse?
What Happens If I Relapse?
Even if you work hard on your recovery and remain dedicated to staying sober for life, there is always a possibility of experiencing a relapse.
Following a relapse, individuals often face emotions of shame and regret. They might also consider surrendering to their addiction instead of persisting in their efforts to conquer the temporary urge to use. These reactions are common but can pose obstacles to achieving a life free of drugs. View this relapse as an educational opportunity; refine your prevention strategy and pinpoint your triggers. By delving into the underlying reasons for the relapse, you will establish the groundwork for a successful recovery that will empower you to come back even stronger.
What Causes a Relapse?
It is common for individuals to relapse after achieving a period of sobriety. Around fifty percent of recovering addicts encounter a brief moment of vulnerability that leads them to resume using drugs or alcohol. Recognizing certain warning signs can assist in preventing this situation.
Relapse Warning Signs
Signs that may predict an upcoming relapse include but are not limited to:
- Failing to prioritize sobriety can increase the risk of relapse. Success entails dedicating yourself to the necessary efforts for maintaining long-term sobriety. This involves actively participating in 12-step meetings, finding a reliable sponsor, and seeking therapy for potential mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
- Many individuals enter treatment to satisfy loved ones rather than being fully dedicated to quitting for personal reasons. Without genuine self-motivation to quit, the likelihood of relapse increases significantly.
- Lack of readiness for life after treatment underscores the necessity of developing a relapse prevention strategy for reentering normal life after treatment. Recognizing factors that can jeopardize sobriety, like problematic family relationships, negative friendships, loneliness, and unhealthy habits, is essential. Early identification of triggers can safeguard the progress made toward maintaining sobriety.
Remembering to have a support group of family and friends can help keep you focused on healing. They can provide stable foundation and encourage discipline or compassion needed in this time.
I Relapsed…Now What?
The initial step involves assessing the necessity of returning to rehab. In case the issue was a one-time occurrence and there is a strong commitment to reviewing or adjusting the recovery plan, an inpatient facility may not be required. This approach provides patients with direct treatment and continuous monitoring. Nevertheless, if a recurring pattern of substance abuse emerges, re-entering a rigorous treatment program may be necessary. Engaging in conversations about substance use, spending time with individuals who promote drinking, or resorting to substance abuse as a coping mechanism are indicators of a more serious issue that warrants prompt intervention.
Returning to treatment should involve a stronger emphasis on therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has shown success in teaching individuals in recovery new behavioral responses to distorted thinking. Other therapy options to consider include art and music therapy, yoga and relaxation techniques, physical fitness, and equine therapy. These strategies can be beneficial in maintaining a stress-free life and managing depression, grief, anxiety, or anger post-treatment. Upon re-entering treatment following a relapse, the focus should shift towards transitioning back to everyday life. Consider residing in a sober living environment for a few months to reduce the risk of relapse, as the structure and support can be instrumental during the initial months after treatment. It is also wise to have an outpatient therapy plan in place for continued support upon completion of the program.
Get Help Today
If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Rehab Path to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.
Early Struggles After Rehab
Early Struggles After Rehab
Recovering from addiction is a difficult and brave process. Some people see rehabilitation as a quick fix for their issues, but it's important to recognize that rehab is only the initial phase in achieving lasting recovery. Adapting to post-rehab life and avoiding relapse demands continual dedication and perseverance.
Recovery Continues After Rehab
Rehabilitation programs offer a strong base for recovery, yet they do not ensure permanent sobriety independently. It is essential to recognize that recovery is a continuous journey that goes beyond the limits of a rehab center. Once finishing a rehab program, individuals need to actively strive for their ongoing recovery.
Post-Rehab Obstacles to Recovery
Social pressure poses a considerable obstacle in staying sober post-rehab. Individuals in social environments might unknowingly present drugs or alcohol, disregarding one's dedication to recovery. Additionally, there could be a tendency to stigmatize sobriety. To overcome this obstacle:
- Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand your goals and respect your sobriety.
- Communicate your boundaries and the importance of sobriety to those around you.
- Develop an exit strategy if you find yourself in a situation that compromises your recovery.
A feeling of Isolation After Rehab
After completing rehabilitation, people may feel isolated or lonely. They might need to establish new social connections or create distance from harmful influences. Dealing with isolation can be made simpler by following these steps:
- Engage in support groups or alumni programs where you can connect with others who have similar experiences.
- Seek out new hobbies or activities that promote social interaction and personal growth.
- Maintain regular communication with your therapist or counsellor to address any feelings of isolation and develop coping strategies.
Dealing with Mental Health After Rehab
Mental health issues often coexist with addiction. After rehab, it is essential to prioritize mental health and seek appropriate support:
- Establish a comprehensive aftercare plan that includes ongoing therapy or counselling sessions.
- Practice self-care techniques such as exercise, meditation, and maintaining a healthy routine.
- Reach out to mental health professionals who specialize in addiction and co-occurring disorders for additional support.
Rehab Alumni Programs
Post-rehab alumni programs provide ongoing support and connection for rehab graduates. By participating in these programs, individuals can enjoy benefits such as:
- Access to a supportive community that understands the challenges of recovery.
- Opportunities for ongoing education, workshops, and skill-building sessions.
- Mentorship from individuals who have successfully maintained sobriety.
Communicating with Friends and Family
Honest and open communication with friends and family is crucial in preventing relapse. Consider the following steps:
- Educate your loved ones about addiction and the challenges of recovery.
- Share your goals, triggers, and boundaries with those close to you.
- Seek their support and encourage them to participate in family therapy or support groups.
Try Out New Hobbies
Trying new hobbies and activities can provide a healthy outlet for emotions and help prevent relapse. Here is how:
- Explore activities that align with your interests and passions.
- Engage in physical activities or sports to promote physical and mental well-being.
- Cultivate new hobbies that stimulate creativity and promote personal growth.
Available treatment for after rehab
12-step programs offer a structured approach to recovery. These programs emphasize:
- Fellowship and support from individuals who have walked the same path.
- Accountability through regular meetings and working through the 12 steps.
- Spiritual growth and a higher power as a source of strength.
Individual post-rehab therapy
Individual therapy offers a safe environment to tackle particular obstacles and navigate deeper concerns. The advantages of individual therapy encompass:
- Tailored treatment plans designed to meet your unique needs.
- Identifying and addressing underlying emotional or psychological factors contributing to addiction.
- Developing coping skills and relapse prevention strategies.
Support groups for recovering addicts and loved ones
Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), offer a community-based approach to recovery. Benefits of support groups include:
- Peer support and shared experiences.
- Learning from others who have successfully navigated similar challenges.
- Building a network of support outside of formal treatment settings.
If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Rehab Path to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.
Coping Skills into Action
Coping Skills into Action
Coping typically entails adapting to or enduring unfavorable circumstances or situations as you strive to maintain your positive self-perception and emotional balance. Coping takes place within the framework of stressful life transitions. Psychological stress is commonly linked to adverse life events, like unemployment or the loss of a loved one. Nevertheless, all transitions necessitate some form of adjustment. Even positive changes, such as marriage or parenthood, can induce stress.
Experiencing numerous changes in a short span can be overwhelming, leading to a sense of losing control. This feeling can impact self-esteem and potentially lead to anxiety, depression, or exacerbate physical health conditions if one's ability to adapt to change is exceeded. Coping entails adapting to unfamiliar challenges or stressors, necessitating increased effort and energy compared to everyday routines. Prolonged exertion can lead to heightened levels of stress hormones and eventual physical health issues. Coping is necessary for stressors that can be immediate, such as relocating to a new residence or dealing with the beginning of marital issues. There are also stressors that last longer periods, like persistent pain, enduring illness, or ongoing financial struggles.
Experiencing multiple acute stressors in a short period can have a cumulative and significant impact. Individuals facing a marital separation, the death of an elderly parent, and a job change in quick succession may find it challenging to preserve their physical and emotional well-being.
What are some common coping strategies?
Some common coping mechanisms may challenge you to:
- Ask others to help or assist you.
- Challenge previously held beliefs that are no longer adaptive.
- Directly attempt to change the source of stress.
- Distance yourself from the source of stress.
- Engage in problem solving.
- Lower your expectations.
- Maintain emotional composure or, alternatively, expressing distressing emotions.
- Maintain emotionally supportive relationships.
- Take responsibility for the situation.
- View the problem through a religious perspective.
Experts concur that coping is a continuous process, not a one-time occurrence. It is beneficial to utilize various coping strategies to manage stress effectively. Individuals have diverse coping styles and may favor specific strategies. These variations often mirror their personality traits. Adaptable coping is more effective than rigid coping, as it allows for the selection of the most suitable strategy for each situation's requirements.
Some challenging situations can trigger similar coping reactions in most individuals. For instance, stressors related to work typically prompt problem-solving approaches. Stressors seen as modifiable are more likely to trigger problem-solving techniques, whereas those perceived as unchangeable are more likely to prompt seeking social support and emotion-focused strategies. To shield ourselves from stress and improve our ability to cope effectively, it is crucial to nurture emotionally supportive connections with others. Extensive research indicates that emotional support helps individuals mitigate the adverse effects of stress.
- Avoid use of caffeine and alcohol.
- Eat a well-balanced diet.
- Engage in pleasurable or fun activities every day.
- Exercise on a regular basis.
- Get enough good quality sleep.
- Practice relaxation exercises such as yoga, prayer, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation.
- Take brief rest periods during the day to relax.
- Take vacations away from home and work.
Learn more about coping skills into action. If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Best-Rehabs.com to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.
How Does Social Media Influence Addiction?
HOW DOES SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCE ADDICTION?
The increasing prevalence of smartphones has led to a rise in social media usage. Nowadays, it's not just teenagers who are using social media to connect with friends. Adults are also utilizing these platforms to share photos, update their friends on their lives, and reconnect with old acquaintances. If you are struggling with addiction, you may question whether social media is affecting your substance use. Being influenced by others through these platforms can potentially jeopardize your well-being. Transformations by the Gulf understands the correlation between social media and addiction and emphasizes the importance of seeking help from the right source.
WHAT IS THE LINK BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADDICTION?
Seeing content on social media can significantly influence your views on drug and alcohol use. Consider a scenario where a stay-at-home mom views posts of her friends unwinding with a glass of wine after a hectic day with their children. These posts portray the wine as a relaxing escape and emphasize its positive effects. However, the concern arises from the potential health hazards associated with even moderate alcohol intake, like consuming just one glass of wine daily.
Celebrities, social media influencers, and acquaintances often share photos of themselves enjoying alcohol or drugs, appearing happy and content. This could inspire you to replicate their actions in search of similar fulfillment. It's vital to keep in mind that social media offers a limited perspective, with individuals presenting a curated version of their lives that may not reflect reality accurately. This can lead to misleading perceptions and promote risky behaviors like substance use. Exercise caution when consuming social media content and avoid allowing it to impact your choices regarding drugs or alcohol.
SOCIAL MEDIA CAN IMPACT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
Recognizing the significant influence of social media on mental well-being is essential, especially regarding addiction. Continuously observing others enjoying themselves and appearing to lead fulfilling lives while you face daily challenges can be distressing. This ongoing comparison may lead to the emergence of diverse issues, including:
- Depression
- High-stress levels
- Anxiety
- Self-doubt
- Issues with self-worth
Recognizing the significant influence of social media on mental well-being is essential, especially regarding addiction. Continuously observing others enjoying themselves and appearing to lead fulfilling lives while you face daily challenges can be distressing. This ongoing comparison may lead to the emergence of diverse issues, including:
DO YOU SEE YOURSELF STRUGGLING WITH SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADDICTION?
It’s not uncommon to find yourself simply unable to handle social media and addiction or addiction on its own. That’s why it is so important for you to take action today. If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.
Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Best-Rehabs.com to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.
