How Opiates Impact the Brain and Body

Blog Detail How Opiates Impact the Brain and Body It’s no secret that opioid addiction has spread rampant throughout the United States. According to National Institute on Drug Abuse “Every day, more than 115 people in the United States die after overdosing on opioids. The misuse of and addiction to opioids—including prescription pain relievers, heroin, and synthetic opioids such as fentanyl—is a serious national crisis that affects public health as well as social and economic welfare.” More often than not, addiction begins innocently and seemingly without provocation. Prescriptions are often written by primary care physicians to treat pain of all sorts, from bone breaking accidents to chronic pain management. While opiates are proven to subside pain, there are negative consequences to prolonged use and abuse. Leaving the individual subject to potential addiction, the risks can often times outweigh the benefits. Common opiates: HydrocodoneOxycodoneOxycontinMeperidineMorphineHydromorphoneMethadoneCodeineFentanylHeroin According to ASAM “Drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the US, with 52,404 lethal drug overdoses in 2015. Opioid addiction is driving this epidemic, with 20,101 overdose deaths related to prescription pain relievers, and 12,990 overdose deaths related to heroin in 2015. From 1999 to 2008, overdose death rates, sales and substance use disorder treatment admissions related to prescription pain relievers increased in parallel.” Statistical resources provide overwhelming evidence to support opiate epidemic in the U.S. Opiates are classified as narcotics and act as a depressant, affecting the central nervous system. Ignorance to the stronghold of these medications ultimately lead to dependence and abuse. Brain Opioid receptors are located all throughout the human brain. Neurotransmitters are responsible for producing communication between the brain and the body, such as opioid receptors. The functionality of these receptors are to act as action sites for pain reduction and induce pleasure responses. When these receptors fire off, dopamine floods the brain and can create a euphoric state. Opiates bind to specific receptors producing a similar effect to the natural chemicals that block out the perception of pain. Opiate produce an effect almost 1,000 times more potent than natural chemical produced in the body and naturally the brain and body adjusts to the new levels. This effect manifests the vulnerability to abuse and dependency. The brain seeks to mimic and replenish the effects that stimulate the pleasure sensories. Receptors become less sensitive to the influx of opiates and a tolerance is established, requiring more and more of the substance. Thus the cycle continues. Prolonged use of opiates and the stress on the brain can ultimately lead to addiction and sometimes overdose. The Respiratory System Opiates depress the central nervous system. This effect can cripple the respiratory system. Ingesting and injecting opiates can slow breathing and ultimately lead to respiratory distress or loss of consciousness. Snorting or smoking opiates can lead to an array of negative symptoms as well. Opiates can be tainted with unknown compounds. Consequently, abuse of opioids can lead to chronic sinus/upper respiratory infections, frequent nose bleeds, and sleep apnea. Over time, opiates can cause severe long term effects on the lungs such as pneumonia and even respiratory failure. Liver Alcohol/substance abuse, in general, sustains major risks factors in regards to the overall health of the liver. Most opioids contain acetaphetamine, which is known to cause damage due to levels of toxicity. Often times, addicts will combine alcohol or other substances with opiates which reduces the functionality of the liver to process these compounds. If injecting opiates, the addict runs the risk of inducing major liver damage. Synthetic opiates, such as heroin, are typically mixed with other undissolvable additives. The insolubility can block blood vessels, causing infection and even liver disease. Contracting Hepatitis C is also a major risk for the IV user. Digestive System Opiates are notorious for slowing and crippling bowel motility. (Motility is the ability of an organism to move freely using metabolic energy.) Often times, this disorder is referred to as Narcotic Bowel Syndrome. NBS describes the dysfunction of natural bowel function due to an influx of narcotics. Common side effects include nausea, bloating, constipation, abdominal pain, and sometimes gastrointestinal bleeding. This disorder flares up once the narcotic effect wears off. Eating can sometimes lead to further complications and aggravate the symptoms. Opiates are known to cause decrease in appetite which can also lead to malnutrition and weight loss. Heart Opiates are naturally depressants, and the effect on the heart is no exception. As the opiate reduces the function of the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system, the heart’s function is also slowed. This effect can lead to dangerously  bradycardia, low blood pressure, vasodilation, and edema. Prolonged use of opiates can cause a disorder that defects the electric conduction of the heart, ultimately creating disabling rhythmic conditions. Heart cells can also be damaged by a number of compounds found in prescription opioids. Injecting opiates can lead to infectious endocarditis. One of the most common disorders associated with opiate abuse, heart valves and heart structures are overwhelmed with a deadly infection. Treatment options can relieve symptoms but often times lead to chronic cardiac disease.     Opiate Detox Withdrawal from opiates can cause many complications as well. The body becomes dependent upon the increased levels of opioids. Medical supervision upon detoxing off opioids is recommended. Common symptoms of opiate withdrawal include: Runny nose DepressionWatery Eyes AnxietyDilated Pupils Confusion/Loss of FocusUncontrollable Yawning HopelessnessSweating/Chills IrritabilityMuscle Aches Mood SwingsMuscle Spasms AggressionVomiting ParanoiaDiarrhea HyperactivityAbdominal Pain Intense CravingsRestless Leg Syndrome Loss of MotivationRapid Heartbeat ForgetfulnessHigh Blood Pressure Fatigue/InsomniaDecreased Appetite Delusions Prolonged use and abuse of opiates is detrimental to the body. Addicts abusing opiates are at a much higher risk of premature death and serious health complications. As the individual’s tolerance increases the negative effects on the body increase as well. The deleterious effects on the human body can create chronic and even fatal consequences. Psychological effects of opioid abuse can last for years which is why therapy and supportive resources are quintessential to maintaining long term sobriety. The only way to relieve these symptoms is total abstinence. As addiction plagues the U.S. more treatment options and resources have become readily available for any addict struggling to

Recognizing the Signs of Relapse

Blog Detail Recognizing the Signs of Relapse Studies show that more than 85% of recovering addicts relapse and return to actively abusing drugs and/or alcohol, within the first year following treatment. Addiction has recently been acknowledged as “disease of the brain.” Whether you have been sober 3 years or 30 days, most would agree addiction is propelled by negative thinking. The common connection between all addicts is the fundamental inability to deal with emotions. Many addicts turn to drugs/alcohol in order to escape reality. Once an individual escapes the grips of addiction, for a brief moment, the addict experiences a relief unlike any other. The misconception, or pink cloud, is that the individual is cured of their ailments. One of the most challenging phases in recovery is returning to reality, dealing with the pressures of everyday life. The disease of addiction is fatally progressive in nature. If an individual is suffering from a seemingly hopeless state of mind, it would be ignorant to assume the embedded thought process would escape overnight. In fact, many find triggers and temptations patiently lurking around the corner. Many assume relapse occurs, seemingly unprovoked, without warning. Relapse, much like addiction, is a gradual process. Recognizing the early signs of relapse can help the individual gain awareness and make the necessary changes before backsliding into their substance abuse. These are 10 of the most common signs of relapse. Walking Away From Working a Program Many addicts leave treatment enthusiastic about pursuing an individualized recovery plan. You may find yourself specifically excited to attend regular 12-step meetings, working with your sponsor, picking up a commitment, and maybe even attending an intensive outpatient program. As the responsibilities and stressors of life show up, working a program can feel like a chore. As a result, you may start slacking on working your program. Skipping out on meetings, withdrawing from fellowship, absent from therapy, and not talking with your sponsor are early signs of unhealthy behaviors. If you feel like you are “cured” you may be on the verge of relapse. Romanticizing The slightest shift of perception can lead an individual back to romanticizing their addiction. Remembering the good times and forgetting the consequences, that followed, can be an early sign of relapse. Addiction is centered around the psychological disconnects of the individual. It is most important to remember that thinking over the “fun times” and forgetting the pain can be detrimental. The delusion of most addicts is that, with long-term sobriety, cravings and unhealthy thinking will go away. The phenomenon of craving is a symptom of addiction and can be reignited, through obsessing over the past. Backpedaling into Old Behaviors There is a reason addicts function better when operating in a structured environment. “Idle minds are the devil’s playground.” When you first get sober, you were most likely encouraged to maintain balance and practice discipline. Addicts can create and maintain a solid foundation, for recovery, by learning how to replace unhealthy behaviors with new coping skills and activities. It’s never a good sign if you begin skipping meals, sleep, and negating self-care practices. You may find yourself headed for relapse if you begin indulging in selfishness, isolating, being defensive, lying, cheating, stealing, and overreacting emotionally if you do not address these behaviors. Keeping Old Company When you transition into recovery, making new friends can be hard. You may find yourself wanting to reconnect with old associates and this can sometimes be complicated. You may find many of your friends are happy to see your successes and you may want to catch up with them. These encounters can trigger old memories and temptations. It’s never a great idea to “return to the scene of the crime.” Fellowship amongst other sober individuals is a sure way to ensure accountability, support, and help in maintaining long-term sobriety. Indulging in Compulsion Another common sign of relapse is indulging in compulsive behaviors. Addicts may unconsciously transfer their addiction to another person, place, or thing. In order to deal with the everyday stressors of life and recovery, you may find yourself gambling, overspending, overworking, engaging in promiscuity, and even seeking out chaos through unhealthy relationships. These activities can trigger the same part of the brain activated during substance abuse. It is not uncommon for recovering addicts to engage in these manipulative behaviors. Awareness and moderation can combat the potentials for relapse. Unrealistic Expectations of Perfectionism “Progress not perfection.” Perfectionism is a fertile ground upon which addiction, conflict, stress, anxiety, and failure are readily cultivated. Perfectionism is an unrealistic demand for any imperfect human. We create unrealistic expectations, but only to our own demise. “Expectations are premeditated resentments.” When an individual continues to seek perfectionism, they are setting themselves up for conflict with others. Self-sabotaging at its finest, the addict must let go of the idea that we can achieve anything like perfection. Shifting the focus to progress rather than perfection will make room for error, correction, and ultimately growth in sobriety. Recovery allows individuals to rebuild and recreate their lives. It’s no secret that obstacles and temptations may arise, but there are many resources available to aid in relapse prevention. Often times recovering addicts find themselves indulging in old hobbies they participated in before picking up a mood/mind altering substance. It is important for the addict to stay true to who they are. If your job isn’t the most rewarding, indulge in activities that make you feel fulfilled. Find hobbies that interest you and incorporate those things into your weekly routine. As you participate in activities you enjoy the brain releases rewarding chemicals, which is a natural and healthy way to reach the desired effect addicts spend their days seeking. Stay connected to your sober support and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you are struggling. Helping others has been proven to cultivate instant gratification and overall improve mental health. Find your passion and live there, for nothing is more fulfilling than successfully protecting the sobriety you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

How to Find a Rehab Treatment

Blog Detail How to Find a Rehab Treatment Addiction to drugs or alcohol is blamable for millions of lives destroyed. The majority of people who have problems are teenagers and the elderly. Due to its two components, physical addiction, and psychological addiction, it is easy to lose control of your life and let the addiction control you. It is difficult to overcome but not impossible. What you need is professional help, guidance, and support and to find the finest rehab treatment in North Carolina.   Why do we need to find a drug and alcohol rehab treatment? Drug abuse is responsible for millions of deaths each year. Some of these deaths are among teenagers and the elderly. There are more than one hundred and twenty million (statistically) of drug users around the world. These drug users are addicted to a variety of substances. The most common elements are cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and other synthetic drugs. Understanding why drug abuse is prevalent in our society is dominant. It gives you the opportunity to reflect on your own life and understand the path that led you to drug abuse. For example, many people abuse drugs to escape the stressful things that are happening in their lives. It could include financial problems, couple problems and problems with family members or maybe some hidden but very damaging secrets. You need to know that you are not alone. Many people go through the same situations. These people are ready and willing to teach you how to get out of your position. You do not have to use drugs to escape the reality that is around you. On the contrary, you have to face your reality in a constructive way. It is not enough to think about recovering your life, and you have to take action by enrolling in affordable alcohol rehab!   The benefits of going to rehab treatment in New York One of the many benefits of alcohol rehab is increasing your ability to heal and reconnect with your body. Drug abuse has a stark impact on your body, both physical and mental. You need ample time to recover your strength. This can only be done in an environment that will protect you from the grunts of drug dealers or the continued encouragement of fellow drug users. You can restore your body to the levels before. This will require exercises, detoxification and a lot of motivation, but it is possible. Another imperative advantage of the best drug and alcohol rehabilitation is that they help you make new friends. These new friends will help you throughout the recovery process. They will guide you through each step, and ease you when you feel weedy. You can even share your feelings and emotions with them, including any trauma that you have gone through before, during or after your indulgence in drugs. In other words, you will find people who are not family or friends but who will care about you.   What type of rehabilitation program is best? So you’ve decided that you need help because you cannot stop drinking or using drugs on your own. All right! Now, the next important decision that needs to be made is to decide between rehab that provide outpatient or residential services. It is an outstanding choice and doing things right from the start will improve your chances of success. Keeping this in mind, it is better not to decide on your own. It is common sense to find a professional who can evaluate and make a recommendation of the most appropriate treatment to your needs, place, and situation. Ask your doctor for a guidance. Get in touch with an addiction counselor. Get in touch with a local addiction treatment provider. Receive individual addiction counseling. Enter an outpatient detoxification program (go to a doctor every day and get the appropriate medications for withdrawal symptoms, but most of the detoxification period becomes home). Go to substance abuse therapies that focus on the behavior of couples or the family environment. Join an outpatient treatment program or an intensive outpatient program. An intensive outpatient program typically provides between 10 and 20 hours of individual or group therapy per week. Join a community of mutual aid groups and meetings.   Rehab treatment in California help in relieving stress and reduce your need for drug use. Do this today. Call affordable rehab in California today and schedule your visit. Your life is going to change for the better.

Benefits of Structured Transitional Living

Blog Detail Benefits of Structured Transitional Living Structured transitional living, or sober living in a halfway house, can oftentimes be underestimated and stigmatized in early recovery. When it comes to maintaining long term sobriety, structured transitional living can be fundamental in contributing to you or your loved one’s success.  Finding a positive and connected community, of other recovering addicts and alcoholics living together, is suggested as the first step after departing from treatment. The question is – How does structured transitional living actually benefit your recovery? What is Structured Transitional Living? Understanding what structured transitional living, or a halfway house, will be the first step in making the best decision to support your road to recovery. A halfway house was generally government sanctioned and meant to provide housing for individuals recently released from incarceration or for people who possess mental handicaps. Halfway houses provided a community setting in which the tenants could live together and be slowly integrated back into society. In relation to recovery, halfway housing took on a new meaning. While maintaining the group-home style of living, structured transitional living is owned and operated by a treatment center or third-party as opposed to governmental organizations. In these specific types of communities, the tenants are recovering addicts and alcoholics living together in one home. Rules and structure are established to maintain safety and order within the home. Universally, there is zero tolerance for drinking or substance abuse at any given time, and clients are regularly breathalyzed and drug tested to ensure total adherence to this standard. If this rule is not followed, clients should be discharged from the house and immediately evicted. ordered to leave. Other standard rules may consist of following a strict curfew, performing assigned chores, and actively participating in a program of recovery. The goal of structured transitional living is to teach recovering alcoholics and addicts how to be accountable and responsible for themselves with the primary purpose of gaining total independence and becoming a functioning member of society. Benefits of Structured Transitional Living It’s no secret that addicts and alcoholics typically resist change. Many newly recovering addicts/alcoholics have grown accustomed to their active addiction lifestyle and often find this structured environment to be a challenge. However, recovery is all about evolving individually and challenging the old ideas that lead to his/her destructive behaviors. It is by trusting the process and walking through the fear of structured transitional living that most addicts find the most personal growth and typically flourish in their sobriety. Learning Accountability The most obvious benefit of structured transitional living is learning accountability. The first step for a recovering addict and alcoholic is to acknowledge, take responsibility for his/her substance abuse issues. As mentioned before, most addicts/alcoholics come into recovery comfortable with their old, self-sabotaging habits and behaviors. However, these old ideas and behaviors also led to his/her demise. Structured transitional living implements a variety of rules intended to encourage responsible living. Although the rules may seem insignificant and tedious, it is by following the guidelines that the individual will find a sense of accountability. Something as simple as making it home on time for curfew or completing assigned chores will instill accountability – an attribute most addicts lost to their addiction. Accountability to rules, yourself, and others will ultimately cultivate success in every area of your life. After all, YOU are solely responsible for the life you are living. Living in a Safe and Sober Environment Another benefit of structured transitional living is the elimination of worldly distractions and the focus on recovery. Most halfway houses require daily 12-Step meeting attendance as a condition of living in the house. This strict regimen of recovery is the foundational difference between success in sobriety and relapse. At first, you may find daily meetings annoying and seemingly insignificant, but eventually, the routine will become vital and positive for your recovery. You may also be required to actively participate in working the steps. Living in a community where each individual is actively working on his/herself will encourage and even foster maintaining long-term sobriety. Establishing Community and Fellowship Almost every addict/alcoholic struggles with the need to feel a sense of belonging. The benefit of structured transitional living is the accessibility to other people with shared struggles and triumphs. You may find yourself surrounded by housemates you like and even some that you don’t but at the core, you will be able to relate to the pain and suffering you all endured during your addiction. This is a common bond that is only found within the recovery community. Learning to thrive and comingle within a diverse community, found in structured transitional living, is an invaluable life lesson. Practicing patience, love, and tolerance is a part of the code in being a successful human. Finding people to grow in recovery and celebrate your victories with will restore trust and teach you how to be a friend again. At Sunshine Sober Living, let our house become your home. Freshly decorated, Sunshine Sober Living is family-owned and operated. We welcome men and women, ages 21 and up, with and without co-occurring conditions, who have a true commitment to sustaining long-term recovery from drug and/or alcohol abuse, and other addictions. This bright, beautiful home that has been completely renovated, radiates warmth and energy that fosters the healing process. Located just outside of Los Angeles, in the upscale residential neighborhood of Woodland Hills, our residents benefit from the beautiful Southern California climate, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the close proximity by foot to Ventura Boulevard and all its shops, restaurants, therapists, and 12-Step meetings.