Why You Should Consider Going to an Intensive Outpatient Program
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 31 million people have drug use disorders. In fact, harmful alcohol use causes 3.3 million deaths every year.
Through an intensive outpatient program, people who are trying to recover from substance abuse can get the help they need. Meanwhile, they can still continue their daily lives. Without proper help, however, the number of deaths from substance abuse will continue to rise.
Here are seven benefits of choosing an intensive outpatient program.
By getting outpatient treatment, you can live a full, healthy life without substance abuse.
1. A Continuum of Care
An intensive outpatient program will ensure you receive the continuum of care you need.
A continuum of care includes multiple levels of treatment. Patients who experience the whole continuum of care receive support at every step of their recovery.
As you research the benefits of outpatient services, consider your needs. A few continuum of care examples include:
- A medical detox
- Inpatient addiction treatment
- Outpatient treatment
- Sober living
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Regular therapy
- Recovery meetings
- Returning home
An intensive outpatient program is only one part of the continuum of care. With outpatient treatment, you can get the support you need even while you live outside of a treatment center.
Otherwise, you might find yourself falling into old habits.
The continuum of care ensures you have the resources you need within reach. With the right combination of care options, you'll have everything you need to achieve long-term sober living.
In addition to continuous care, some intensive outpatient programs will also offer:
- Gender-specific treatment
- Holistic wellness
- Evidence-based treatment
- Access to experienced clinical staff
- A serene location so you can focus on your treatment
- Family therapy
Finding a recovery center that offers a range of outpatient services can also ensure you receive the continuous care you need.
2. Access to a Community
Recovery is easier when you can lean on a loving, caring community to support you along the way.
Intensive outpatient programs give you access to a community of people who have gone through what you're going through now. They can provide you with a fresh perspective. They can also tell stories about their own recovery journey.
In many cases, hearing about how far your sober community has traveled can provide you with the hope you need.
Choosing an outpatient treatment plan can give you access to a community. You'll meet new people with their own stories of recovery along the way. Some intensive outpatient programs also host meetings where you can all share your stories.
In other cases, you might choose to hang out with the people you meet in your free time.
Interacting with sober people can also make other interactions throughout your life easier.
With a sober community, you can talk to people who understand the struggles you're facing as a sober individual. When you plan to attend parties where people will be drinking, your sober community can help support you with advice or an understanding ear.
3. Activity Diversity
For some people, recovery meetings are an easy way to maintain sobriety. For other people, however, attending these meetings can feel tedious.
An intensive outpatient program can introduce you to other alternatives.
If you don't like attending meetings, there are other recovery groups you can choose from. Plus, intensive outpatient programs often offer non-recovery program groups. For example, you might attend groups for:
- Art therapy
- Grief or trauma workshops
- Family groups
- Relapse prevention
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Medication management
- Psychoeducation
- Meditation groups
These groups cover a range of topics that can help your recovery in different ways.
4. Access to Resources
During your recovery, you might realize it's difficult to find all the resources you need in one place. An intensive outpatient program can introduce you to these resources (and some you can't find anywhere else).
Some treatment centers will even provide transportation to and from your intensive outpatient programs. If you don't have access to a car or good public transportation, they can also ensure you make it to your recovery meetings.
Outpatient treatment programs also give you access to a therapist or psychiatrist.
That way, you don't have to worry about finding someone you know and trust for your treatment. Instead, you'll have access to everything you need straight from your outpatient program.
5. It's Covered
Another one of the benefits of outpatient services is that they're usually covered by insurance.
Many people don't consider getting treatment because of expenses. If the program is covered by your insurance plan, you can get the treatment you need without worrying about costs.
Try to choose an intensive outpatient program that's accredited. For example, The Joint Commission Gold Seal is the highest accreditation available for addiction treatment centers. This accreditation assures the program makes strides for continuous improvement to keep clients satisfied.
6. Keep Yourself Accountable
According to this research, intensive outpatient programs are effective for people recovering from alcohol and drug use disorders.
When you continuously keep up with your treatment, you'll feel accountable to maintain your sobriety. You're not only accountable to therapists, staff members, and other patients, but also to yourself.
You might also find a mentor or sponsor during your recovery.
They'll help guide you throughout your path to sobriety. They can also help keep you accountable to check-in and get additional help.
7. Easy-going Reintegration
The transition between inpatient care and sobriety on your own isn't easy for everyone.
With an intensive outpatient program, you don't have to rush the process. Instead, you can focus on your recovery. The continuum of care will help you return to daily life while also helping you avoid a relapse.
With easy-going reintegration, you can develop the skill and access the tools you need for long-term sobriety.
The Care You Need: 7 Benefits of an Intensive Outpatient Program
Your sobriety is important. Otherwise, you'll miss out on the happy, healthy life you deserve. With an intensive outpatient program, you can ensure you're getting the proper care to live that life for the rest of your life.
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.
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
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Why Transformations by the Gulf?
What to Do After Florida Beach Drug Rehab
What to Do After Florida Beach Drug Rehab
During treatment, your counselors will discuss the best options for your personal journey. However, it is often helpful to have an idea of what to expect once you leave the safety of the treatment center.
Everyone's life after addiction is different but we are going to explain the general idea of what to expect. Keep reading for more information!
Finding a Place to Live
Upon leaving treatment, you will need to secure a place to live. Your first thought may include simply going home. However, this is not always the best option for people that are new to recovery.
Going home will place you in the same environment and around the same people. With these two factors, it is likely to return to old behaviors and old ways of thinking.
There are many options available to you and your counselor will recommend the one that best suits your needs. These choices may include staying with a sober friend or family member, moving into a day treatment facility, or opting to live in a sober living home.
Sober living houses are an excellent choice as they group like-minded individuals together and each member helps others stay accountable. Most of these houses offer affordable rent that may be paid weekly and require you to hold a job, attend 12-step meetings, and have a sponsor.
Looking for Work
Many addicts and alcoholics lose their job when they hit rock bottom. Some people may be fortunate enough to return to work, but this is not typical.
Whether you hold a degree or have minimal skills, you will need to find a way to make money. Before jumping into a new career, find something that you enjoy doing and can help pay bills. The goal isn't to become rich; the goal is to stay sober.
People with service industry backgrounds may want to return to waiting tables or tending bar. These jobs often center around alcohol and a party lifestyle. Instead of jumping right back into the same patterns, consider other customer service jobs such as retail or hospitality.
Remember to keep time for yourself and your recovery; some jobs are more understanding than others.
Establish a Routine
Once you find a place to live, you can begin to establish what you want each day to look like. This will likely include whichever job you find, but should also include time for recovery and loved ones.
Keeping a busy schedule and routine will help keep any thoughts about using or drinking as thoughts, not actions. Hopefully, between your new home, job, and sober social connections, you are too busy enjoying life to be tempted with relapse!
Build a Network at a Florida Beach Drug Rehab
In rehab, you will meet many people that have the same goals as you. If you choose to attend AA or NA, you will also be surrounded by people in recovery.
Take time to get to know a few of these people better. Get their phone numbers and call or text them. People in recovery want to help others stay sober so use this to your advantage.
Some people do not wish to work any type of 12-step program and that's okay. However, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals will keep you accountable.
If you choose to attend AA or NA meetings and work the steps, get a sponsor you can trust. Talk with them regularly and continue to be honest, open-minded, and willing.
Attend Aftercare or Continuing Therapy
When you leave rehab to begin your life after addiction, you will likely be given the option to attend aftercare sessions. These sessions are akin to group therapy and allow you to 'check-in' with other recent graduates and counselors.
Whether your journey keeps you in Florida or takes you to the coast of California, you can find (with some research and help from your counselors) an aftercare or therapy group.
Part of this is staying connected to other sober people, but the other part is identifying any triggers that can lead you to relapse and preventing this issue from occurring.
Attending aftercare or seeing a therapist after rehab is especially important if you deal with co-occurring disorders. This is due to the fact that any mental disorder may become worse while dealing with Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS).
A therapist or group leader will help guide you if your PAWS symptoms are becoming unbearable. They can also give you a referral to a medical doctor who is familiar with the condition and can prescribe medications such as antidepressants or non-narcotic anti-anxiety medicine.
Have Fun While Breaking Old Habits
A huge part of recovery is relearning how to have fun without the use of drugs or alcohol. In addiction your Friday night may have included going to a bar or using with friends. Now, it may include a trip to the movies, a good restaurant, or socializing at a 12-step meeting.
The idea is to continue living your life and having fun while doing so. Every time you opt to grab a coffee over grabbing a beer, you are slowly beginning to break those old habits that led you to a Tampa Beach drug rehab.
Don't test yourself by choosing to hang out with old friends, in old places assuming that you are immune to your addiction. This is a set-up for failure.
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.
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
Are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Psychology Today or check out our page on addiction treatments.
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
Warning Signs You Have a Drinking Problem
Casual Drinking vs Alcoholism: Warning Signs You Have a Drinking Problem
Did you know that as many as 1 in 8 Americans struggle with an addiction to alcohol?
When most people think of addiction, they tend to imagine the most severe cases. This is why it can be hard to recognize if you or a loved one may have a drinking problem.
Do you want to learn more about the symptoms of alcoholism? Keep reading to understand the important warning signs.
How to Tell If You're an Alcoholic: Are You Emotionally Dependent?
Lots of people have a drink to loosen up in stressful social situations. Although this is fine to do occasionally, one of the most important signs of an alcoholic is that they can't have a good time without drinking. If you drink often to escape reality or improve your mood, then you're at risk of becoming dependent on alcohol.
Getting Drunk Alone or Unintentionally Are Signs of Alcoholism
Drinking is a social activity, which means that being compelled to drink alone can lead to trouble. An important factor to consider is your reasoning to drink. Having a glass of wine with your dinner each night is acceptable whereas drinking alone at odd hours is questionable.
Many people who suffer from alcoholism also get drunk unintentionally. If you have a hard time stopping once you get started, you could have an addiction. Casual Drinking vs Alcoholism: Warning Signs You Have a Drinking Problem.
You May Have a Drinking Problem If Alcohol Sabotages Your Life
Sometimes the negative influences of alcohol can be subtle, which is why you may not realize you have a problem. If drinking has ever gotten in the way of your job, your relationships, your finances, or your happiness, then you need to think about your habits. No healthy habit would ever sabotage your life.
Do You Ever Notice Physical or Mental Symptoms of Withdrawal?
Depending on how much or how often you drink, it's possible to start feeling mild withdrawal symptoms within a few hours since your last drink. The top mental symptoms of alcohol dependency include irritability, brain fog, mood swings, memory loss, and trouble concentrating. The top physical symptoms of alcohol dependency include shakiness, trouble balancing, headaches, and nausea.
You've Tried to Quit in the Past Unsuccessfully
Even people who identify as casual drinkers may have a hard time cutting back or quitting altogether. If you've tried to quit drinking in the past but failed, this is a telltale sign of alcohol dependency. If you don't have the freedom to choose what you want to do, then addiction could be controlling your life.
Are You Looking for Addiction Recovery Centers in Tampa, Florida?
If you have any of these symptoms, it's possible you may have a drinking problem. The best way to get a diagnosis and gain control of your health is to seek professional help.
Are you in need of a rehab center in Tampa, Florida? If so, Transformations by the Gulf would love to take care of you. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help you overcome your addiction.
Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?
Casual Drinking vs Alcoholism: Warning Signs You Have a Drinking Problem. If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
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
Are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Rehab.com or check out our page on addiction treatments.
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
Drug Treatment Centers Florida: 5 Myths About Addiction, Debunked
Drug Treatment Centers Florida: 5 Myths About Addiction, Debunked
In America, there are drug overdose deaths among people of all ages, and that number is rapidly increasing.
Drug treatment centers in Florida take in patients who are young, old, rich, poor, white, and black.
Surprised? Evidently, drugs don't discriminate.
Unfortunately, people have misconceptions about drugs and addiction. To help you out, here are 5 myths about addiction, debunked.
1. Addiction Is a Choice
There's a fine line here: while drug use is a choice, drug addiction isn't. You may think it's as simple as just quitting cold turkey, but it's not.
When someone's addicted to drugs, their brain is wired to need their drug of choice. Due to genetics, a person can abuse drugs hundreds of times and not become addicted, or they can use it once and easily succumb to addiction.
2. Prescription Drugs Are Safe
Many people have a false sense of security when it comes to prescription drugs. Because a doctor prescribed them, it must be safe, right?
That's definitely not the case. Many pain medications are highly addictive, so make sure you only take them as needed and according to your doctor's instructions.
Don't make the mistake of thinking you can take an extra pill here and there to help with the pain. It can easily become a full-blown addiction before you know it.
3. Having a High Alcohol Tolerance Isn't a Sign of Alcoholism
Many people think that if they have a high alcohol tolerance, their body's adjusted to how much they drink and they're fine.
However, it means just the opposite. When you can drink bottles of vodka in one night and not get sick and have heavy impairment, this means you're an alcoholic. This means you have functional tolerance to alcohol.
4. Addicts Don't Get Help Until They've Hit Rock Bottom
There's a common misconception that addicts don't get help until they've hit rock bottom. But the truth is, the sooner you seek help, the better it is.
Recovery center professionals are trained to assist addicts of all stages in detoxing and learning healthy ways to cope with both addiction and stress in life. If you suspect you're an addict, it's best to check yourself into treatment as soon as possible.
5. Relapse Means Treatment Didn't Work
Addicts are humans, and most will relapse. In fact, between 40 to 60% of people with substance use disorders do.
But relapse doesn't necessarily mean that treatment didn't work. It may take a relapse or two, but generally, addicts find long-term success in remaining sober after going through treatment.
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.
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
Are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Yelp to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
Florida Cocaine Addiction Center: Your Brain on Cocaine
Many people view cocaine as a party drug, but the reality is there's nothing fun about it at all. Every year, there are thousands of overdose deaths.
While you may take extra precautions to ensure you don't overdose, you may still be doing a lot of damage to your body. In addition to that, your addiction may be affecting your ability to manage your relationships and responsibilities.
This article will explain everything you need to know about your brain on cocaine and a Florida cocaine addiction center can help.
What Does Cocaine Do to Your Brain?
There are two main ways cocaine affects your brain: physiologically and emotionally.
Physiological Effects
One of the main physiological effects cocaine has on your brain is addiction. With repeated use, your brain chemistry changes, which makes you crave and physically rely on cocaine.
With long-term use, you may start having seizures or seizure disorders. Abusing cocaine can possibly also increase your risk of developing Parkinson's disease.
In addition, cocaine usage can raise the cortisol levels in your brain. This can have a permanent negative impact on your blood pressure and, in turn, damage your cardiovascular system.
Cocaine can cause your brain to literally be eaten away. This condition is called cocaine-induced leukoencephalopathy, and while it's very rare, it can still happen to you.
A more common occurrence is the advanced aging of your brain. A study showed that in people who had either used the drug recently or in the past, their brains were losing double the amount of gray matter per year when compared to non-addicts.
Needless to say, cocaine has only negative effects on your brain, even though using will give you temporary pleasure.
Emotional Effects
While cocaine can make you feel extremely happy and sensitive, these are only short-term effects. You may also feel paranoid, restless, or irritable and you may not feel like eating much either.
Because it also boosts dopamine in the brain (in the beginning), you may feel more energized as well. This is why many people use it to stay up when partying.
However, as time goes on, you'll start suffering from adverse effects regarding your mood. The main problems are anxiety and aggression. As a result, your personality can completely change due to the abuse of cocaine.
Check into a Florida Cocaine Addiction Center
Cocaine can have a devastating effect on not only your brain but also the quality of relationships with your loved ones. It can make it challenging to keep up with your priorities, like work, school, or childcare.
Don't miss out on the important things in life. While sobriety can seem like a long and difficult road, you can achieve it. With the proper support and treatment at a Florida cocaine addiction center, you can get a second chance at a fulfilling and happy life.
Want to address your cocaine addiction and get into recovery? Then get in touch with us now.
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.
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
Are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Recovery.org to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
Helping Someone Over Addiction: How to Stage an Addiction Intervention
Helping Someone Over Addiction: How to Stage an Addiction Intervention
Is someone you love abusing alcohol or drugs? If you can see something's wrong, don't stand by. Do something to help!
But if you've tried your best with heart-to-heart conversations and more, what can you do? An addiction intervention may be just what your loved one needs to motivate them to action.
But what is an intervention, and how can you do it? Read on to find out. Helping Someone Over Addiction: How to Stage an Addiction Intervention.
What is an Intervention?
An alcohol or drug intervention is a structured conversation between the addicted party and their loved ones. The goal is to encourage the person to get on the road to recovery.
But does an alcohol or drug intervention actually work? According to data, most interventions have an 80-90% success rate. It's definitely worth a try!
Finding the Right Moment
While it's hard to approach someone struggling with an addiction. It's time to stop enabling and start taking action. But how can you spot the signs?
Although different types of addiction lead to different signs, here are some common clues:
- secretive and aggressive behavior
- borrowing or stealing money
- physical appearance deteriorating
- tiredness, lack of energy or health problems
- work or school problems
- depression
- eating disorders
If you spot any of these signs, it may be time to stage an intervention. Prevention is better than a cure. Stop the situation from spiraling out of control by helping them as early as possible.
How to Stage an Addiction Intervention
You may know you need to do an intervention, but you may wonder HOW to do it. Read on for the basic steps.
Expert Guidance
Before trying to handle such a sensitive situation alone, ask a substance abuse interventionist to help. A professional can help you to organize an effective intervention.
Whether your loved one agrees to get help or not, the interventionist will know what to do next.
Team Work
When you're planning to stage an intervention, you need a solid team behind you.
It's true, close family and friends may be able to convince a loved one to get help. Remember anyone involved should be thoroughly prepared for confrontation and intense moments.
The team should discuss the goal of the intervention and set a time and date. But your loved one shouldn't know about the plan.
Plan for Success
When preparing your chosen team, your interventionist will educate them on addiction and recovery. This much-needed knowledge can help the team to form a compassionate view of the situation.
Each team member should also write down and rehearse an impact statement. The aim of this is not to point fingers, but to show your loved one how their actions specifically affect others.
The Big Day
Find a way to get your loved one to the intervention location. They may feel betrayed and angry at first. But after some time has passed, they may calm down significantly.
Each team member should then take turns expressing their pre-prepared speeches. And also freely express their personal concerns and feelings.
In the end, you need to give your loved one an ultimatum. Such as a treatment option or rehabilitation program. But don't threaten a consequence unless you're actually going to follow through.
If they agree to undergo treatment, don't delay. Act immediately.
Say It Before It's Too Late
If you're unsure about staging an addiction intervention, you should speak to a professional. They can give you the support you need.
But if you're trying to help your loved one on the road to recovery, you've come to the right place. Find out more about the unique experience we offer right here.
Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?
Helping Someone Over Addiction: How to Stage an Addiction Intervention. If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help.
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
Are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit recovered.org to learn more or check out our page on addiction treatments.
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
Suicide, Depression and Substance Abuse: How to Get Help
Do you know that there is a close association between mental illness and substance abuse? In the short run, drugs affect our moods and may cause anxiety due to hallucinations. Long term effects include depression due to the depletion of serotonin hormone and in severe cases, schizophrenia.
Depression caused by rampant drug use may lead to suicide since the individual does not find the motive to live. If you are in such a place, read the article below to understand how you can seek help for depression and substance abuse.
Be Ready For Change
The first step to seeking help for your drug abuse problem is self-acceptance. You must admit to yourself that you have a problem and that you need your life to get back on track.
Be prepared for the new changes. For example, you may need to cut off friends that encourage you to use drugs. You may also have to avoid places such as bars that trigger you to use drugs.
Seek the Support of Close Friends and Family
Your close friends and family comprise a strong support network that will help you overcome depression and substance abuse. Besides, they will motivate you to abide by the new lifestyle changes.
Friends and family will ensure that you attend rehabilitation classes and doctor’s appointments. Being around caring people can reduce the impacts of depression as you no longer feel alone.
Join Support Groups
Support groups comprising former drug addicts can help you overcome your drug addiction and manage your depression. In the support group, you engage with people who have had similar life experiences.
At first, you may be afraid to tell your story to strangers. However, you realize that telling the story is part of the healing process. During support group sessions, you will learn how to lead a drug-free lifestyle.
Attending support group sessions may prompt you to help people in similar situations. They may be members of the support group or former friends who would like to change their lifestyle. As you help someone out, you realize that you must do better for that person to look up to you.
Seek Medical Help for Depression and Drug Abuse
Seek medical attention if you think that your addiction is not manageable. For severe addiction, the best option would be admitted into an inpatient program where you will be under 24-hour medical supervision. You may also opt for an out-patient program where you do not have to spend time at the facility.
Your doctors will have to establish if your mental illness and substance addiction are separate problems. For instance, some people abuse drugs to cope with trauma due to sexual abuse or loss of a close family member.
You will receive medical treatment to prevent relapse and manage your depression. Further, you will receive counseling to help you come to terms with your reality.
Need Help? Do it Today!
We procrastinate because we think our futures are assured. However, with depression and substance abuse, you need to take action immediately. Confide in close friends and family, join a support group or seek medical treatment for your condition.
Visit us today for high-quality drug rehabilitation services.
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.
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
You can also find out more information about Transformations by the Gulf by visiting Rehabs.org
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
5 Warning Signs of a Cocaine Addiction
5 Warning Signs of a Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine addiction has been a major public health concern in the United States over the years. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) have found that 1.7 million people aged 12 years or older abuse cocaine annually.
This translates to about 1 in 20 young adults using cocaine, a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that can be snorted, smoked, or injected. The trend in drug abuse is no exception in cocaine use.
Regular use of cocaine can impact a person’s brain, making it challenging to call it quits without help. Cocaine use may have started as harmless experimentation but can quickly turn into a life-threatening addiction.
Do you suspect your loved one is abusing cocaine? We have compiled the top five warning signs of addiction you should be on the lookout for. Keep reading to find out! 5 Warning Signs of a Cocaine Addiction.
1. Physical Appearance
The terms "cocaine pupils" and "cocaine eyes" have been used to indicate how the eyes of people who take this drug look. Most cocaine users have dilated eyes that are always a giveaway of drug use.
The eyes usually appear large, and when pupils are dilated, they become sensitive to light. The eyes of cocaine users may also look red or bloodshot as the blood vessels expand.
Besides dilated pupils, other physical signs of cocaine use include:
- Runny nose and frequent sniffles as a result of snorting cocaine
- Nosebleeds due to snorting
- Track marks as a result of injecting cocaine into the bloodstream and
- Burned fingers and lips as a result of smoking cocaine.
If you notice these signs, talk to your loved one about getting treatment.
2. Heart Issues
A cocaine user may also show some signs associated with heart complications. Cocaine abuse can increase the risk of certain cardiovascular effects.
Some of the heart problems caused by cocaine use include:
- Heart attack (Myocardial Infarction)
- Heart failure due to inflammation of the heart muscle
- Fast heart rate
- Aortic dissection
- Cardiac arrest
- Stroke
If not managed, abuse can eventually cause death due to these problems. We advise that you stage an intervention to save your loved one.
3. Deteriorating Mental Health
Using cocaine can also lead to mental complications. Many times, cocaine addicts use the drug in binges. Taken repeatedly at high doses, it can lead to mental health problems. Some of the mental symptoms of cocaine use include:
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Paranoia and anxiety
- Aggressiveness
- Euphoria
- Panic attacks
In addition to drug addiction treatment, users may require undergoing counseling to restore mental health.
4. Behavioral Abnormalities
The behavioral symptoms of cocaine use may be more evident than physical signs. These are signs associated with changes in a user’s personality. Some of the common behavioral cocaine addictions signs include:
- Excited and fast speech
- Lying and hiding about cocaine use from loved ones.
- Being unable to limit cocaine use.
- Engaging in risky behavior such as unprotected sex
Risky behavior exposes one to STIs, especially if they engage in unprotected sex. Talk to your loved one about these consequences so they can see the need for treatment.
5. Withdrawal Signs
Some cocaine users may experience few withdrawal effects. However, there are others who experience devastating cocaine addiction symptoms. Common cocaine withdrawal signs or symptoms include:
- Slow thought process
- Increased appetite
- Cravings for cocaine
- Fatigue
- Extreme depression
- Mood swings
- Low energy
Get Help for Cocaine Addiction Today
Cocaine has adverse effects on the health, behavior, and life of the user. Luckily, it’s never too late to get help for cocaine addicts.
We know how disheartening it can be to see a loved one suffering from drug use addiction. Reach us today for treatment and rehabilitation solutions to save your loved from cocaine addiction.
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.
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
You can also find out more information about Transformations by the Gulf by visiting treatmentcentsdirectory.com
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
Florida Drug Rehab: Family Suffers When You're Addicted To Pain Meds
When someone becomes addicted to prescription pain medication, it doesn't just affect them but their entire family.
Addiction can have devastating effects on the financial, physical, and mental health of everyone involved in the addict's life.
Approximately 25% of those prescribed pain medication by a doctor it and up to 80% of heroin addicts started by misusing pain medications.
Addiction isn't an issue that only affects a small demographic of the population. Everyone has the potential to become addicted. All it may take is an injury and seeing their doctor.
There is help through Florida drug rehab programs, support groups, and other resources available to offer hope and support for addicts and the family members of addicts.
Keep reading to learn more about the ways addiction affects the entire family.
Emotional Stress for Everyone
When a loved one becomes addicted to pain medication, it can cause emotional stress for family members that goes far beyond worry. Pain meds can completely change the personality, priorities, and motivations or a person who is addicted to them.
Erratic, defensive, and even violent behavior may become the new norm from someone with an addiction. Family begins to walk on eggshells never knowing what behavior or mood they'll face from the person.
There's also the emotional stress of seeing a loved one physically and mentally spiral into the abyss of addiction. In 2017, 72,000 Americans died as a result of overdoses.
Spouses, children, parents, siblings, and others carry this fear and stress with them when they love an addict. Loved ones may feel overwhelmed because they don't know how to help the addict.
Physical Stress on Family Members
When there is emotional stress, it can lead to physical illnesses and higher risk factors for heart attacks, stroke, depression, and many other conditions.
There is also the physical stress of carrying more of the family load. Often other family members have to pick up the slack and work longer hours, perform more household duties and ware themselves out.
Sleepless nights are a part of living in a home with an addict and that can wreak havoc on your health, too.
Financial Stress
There can be a lot of financial stress put on a family when a loved one is addicted to pain meds. Often the addiction started with a prescription to treat pain and there was already an injury or medical issue adding to the financial strain on the family.
As addiction progresses many struggling cannot maintain employment, debts begin to mount as the cost of their addiction rises and their income dwindles.
Many addicts end up stealing from friends and family. They tend to make bad financial decisions. Their addiction has taken priority over the rest of life. This can leave families in a situation where they can't make ends meet.
Once a loved one needs something like Florida drug rehab or is hospitalized for the physical effects of addiction there can be even greater financial worry placed on the family who ends up sacrificing their needs and wants to help an addicted loved one.
Florida Drug Rehab Can Help
Whether you have become addicted or you are concerned about a loved one's addiction, Florida drug rehab can help you find resources, support, and gain control of your life again.
Connect with us today for a brighter future tomorrow.
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.
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
You can also find out more information about Transformations by the Gulf by visiting Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce.
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
I Am Addicted to Opioids: Now What?
You're not alone. In fact, stats show that almost 30 percent of people that take prescribed opioids for pain relief end up with some type of substance abuse issue. At least that was the case in 2017 when 1.7 million people in America were struggling with opioid addiction.
Overdoses are on the rise too so consider yourself lucky that you realize you have an opioid addiction so you can do something about it. There are solutions available and people waiting to help. Like us! And many other recovery programs that include opioid addiction rehab.
But what exactly are the next steps, you ask? And what about opioid withdrawal?
To help, we've put together three opioid addiction treatment action items. Keep reading to learn what to do next and then get started right way to get the relief and sobriety that's waiting for you. Hope is there. Grab it.
1. Reach Out to an Opioid Addiction Rehab
First, pat yourself on the back for admitting you have a problem and need help. Bravo! That's not easy, but it's huge.
Second, pick up the phone, send an email, or find a person you can talk to in person and say you're ready to get this monkey off your back. Now.
We're here. You can call us and we are more than happy to help, answer questions, and get you going into a treatment program.
Your end goal is to find the type of treatment for opioid addiction that is best for you specifically. There is no one-size-fits-all solution here. When you call, the rehab will walk you through it.
2. Pick the Opioid Addiction Treatment That Suits You Personally
Once you call the treatment center, you will work with an admissions counselor to pick the right treatment program. This counselor might be a licensed therapist.
She or he will asses where you're at and decide how much care you need. Options include residential treatment, where you stay at the center full time, and outpatient treatment, where you live elsewhere but come in daily for the program.
There are variations on these but all offer individualized help that treats the symptoms of your addiction plus you as a whole person. This means you get help with your psychological, biological, social, and family-situation needs.
You'll get help going through physical detox withdrawal safely if needed. And they'll make sure you learn how to cope with life without the drug.
Some opioid addiction treatment options:
- Residential treatment (live at center)
- Day treatment with community housing (live off campus with care)
- Intensive outpatient program (three days a week but live at home)
- Holistic, group, and boat therapy (alternative ways to pump up the hope and recovery, usually after you finish the rehab)
The end goal of treatment is you being a happy, productive person fully engaged with your life in a positive way.
3. Get Started on Your New Awesome Life
Once you pick your program, it's time to sign up. The rehab will help you with insurance and make sure you find a program you can afford. There are so many options out there and you will be guided with care.
Remember that kicking the drug will not be easy, but once you get past the hard part, there is much light at the end of the tunnel. People that get sober from opioid and other addictions live happy, fun, engaged, and productive lives.
Expect to continue taking steps to stay sober after treatment and expect to feel relief and camaraderie with people going through what you're going through.
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
Now that you know the tip of the iceberg about opioid addiction rehab and what action steps to take, it's time to pick up that phone and get started.
Keep reading to find out a typical treatment day and then call that number at the top of the page. We want you to succeed and are here to give you what you need to do so. All you have to do is ask.
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.
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
You can also find out more information about Transformations by the Gulf by visiting RehabNow.org.
What a Day is Like in Our Treatment Facility.
Why Transformations by the Gulf?
