Right now is a scary time for most of us. Coronavirus is spreading and the uncertainty is frightening. If you are struggling with addiction and/or mental health issues yet have fears about entering rehab during this time, we are here to help you. Here is more about coronavirus and addiction – what you need to know and how you can get the help you need. What is Coronavirus?According to WHO (the World Health Organization): Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older people and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. The latest version of coronavirus was first found in Wuhan, China and traced to a live animal market in that area. Since then, it has spread on a global scale, including to the United States. Nationwide, the CDC has reported over 21K cases, with that number growing. Of those reported cases, 260 people have died, with 83 of those deaths in Washington state, 46 in New York, 24 in California, 14 deaths each in Georgia and Louisiana, 11 each in Florida and New Jersey, and fewer deaths in several other states. Researchers studying the new virus have discovered that certain demographics are at greater risk for coronavirus. These include the elderly, children, those with autoimmune diseases, and those who have other illnesses. Should You Enter Rehab at This Time?While this is a time when everything is uncertain, it is not the time to let your health suffer when it comes to substance abuse or mental health treatment. In fact, the risk of drug overdose and alcohol poisoning far outweigh the number of cases of coronavirus. According to the CDC, opioid overdoses alone continue to claim over 100 lives in America every day and when it comes to alcohol, almost 90K people die each year from alcohol-related causes. COVID-19 and Drug AbuseThose who have compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to this virus. And since this is a virus that affects the respiratory system, those who smoke are at risk. This includes those who smoke cigarettes, marijuana, and other drugs that can be ingested via smoking. In fact, in China, there are studies being done comparing those who got the virus. Men make up more of the population and several experts believe it may be because more men smoke in China than women. Any type of inhalation of hot smoke can be damaging in different ways. There is also the issue of sharing pipes, bongs, and other marijuana paraphernalia that puts the person at risk due to the transfer of saliva and germs. As for those who use illicit drugs, there are studies that show that this can lower the immune system. This includes drugs like hallucinogens, meth, heroin, and cocaine. Along with minimizing pathophysiological and neuropsychological responses, it also affects immune functions. And those who use these types of drugs are at risk if they participate in unprotected sex or share needles. This is because there is a greater chance of sharing infectious pathogens, or at the very least, increasing exposure. This obviously includes coronavirus. Prescription Medication ShortagesOne of the secondary problems with coronavirus is that there is a shortage of prescription medication. This is due in part to the fact that about 90% of active ingredients used by American drug manufacturers originate in China. Now combine that with those who are stocking up because of not knowing what might happen and you have a shorter supply. Some of those who are in recovery from substance abuse and alcohol abuse depend on medications that aid them in their sobriety or in helping minimize withdrawal symptoms. Those people should stock up if they can so that they are not without. This includes being without due to shortages or for those who cannot leave their residence due to coronavirus worries or lock-downs in their state. Of course, essential businesses are open and that includes pharmacies but it is still a good idea to have enough in case there is a problem. How to Avoid CoronavirusThis particular virus is transmitted to others via bodily fluids and respiratory droplets. In order to stop the spread of transmission as best as you can, you should do the following:
We Are Here for YouWe realize that substance abuse and alcohol abuse can affect your health. Someone who has a weaker immune system due to either may be more at risk for coronavirus. If you have substance abuse and/or mental health issues, it is important to get help and this addiction treatment may help mitigate some of your risks for COVID-19. We offer treatment options to fit your needs. If you or someone you love has addiction issues, contact us so we can help with recovery. The post Coronavirus and Treatment appeared first on Transformations Treatment Center. from https://www.transformationstreatment.center/addiction-treatment/coronavirus-and-treatment/
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By Bill I., Transformations Alumnus Hello, my name Bill and I’m an alcoholic. I started drinking regularly at the age of 13. Before I started drinking I viewed myself as pretty much a loser was never good at anything mediocre at best. I was full of fear and self-doubt. I was bullied in school and made fun of by older kids and that did nothing but make me recede more into myself. When I was introduced to alcohol my whole outlook on life changed. I was no longer a loser, I had self-confidence. I could relax around people and no longer feel like a target. I stood up for myself. I made through high school up until I got expelled in my junior year. I moved out of my parents’ house and went to Baltimore, Maryland, where I got a job working construction. I was good at what I did and was promoted very quickly. At age 19 I had my own company truck and a 4-man crew working under me. I went to St.Louis, Missouri, and was there until Christmas of 1984. We were getting ready to take Christmas break. We went to work on a Wednesday and it rained the night before so I told the guys we couldn’t work and had them all come to my place for some beer and cocktails. Around noon one of the guys needed to leave so I offered him a ride. Big mistake!! On our way to his house, I was flying down a service road, I came to a knoll in the road and as soon as I ripped it there was a car at the stop sign I couldn’t slow down fast enough. I swerved to miss her as I swerved she proceeded to turn and I T-boned her hitting her driver’s side door at 70mph, she had her 13-year-old son in the car with her. That lady was Norma Rae Wilkins. She was 43 she had three children and a husband who loved her. She died at the scene of the accident. I was in a blackout and don’t remember much of that day. But I remember the crash like it was yesterday. When I was in the holding cell is when it hit me and if I ever needed a drink, it was then. I told you that to tell you this; At that time and for many years later, I didn’t think I was an alcoholic. More about alcohol in the Big Book talks about all the ways we tried to control our drinking. I’ve tried countless times with no permanent solution; 14 rehabs, 13 1/2 years in prison. I wasn’t broken. When I got to Transformations I thought I was done. I did the PHP and the outpatient programs there and I relocated to Florida. The thing was, I failed to grow spiritually. I failed to go on with the 12 steps. I had no solution. After a few months of no solution in my life, I resort to what I know works. You see, my mind was screaming and I couldn’t shut it off. So I started drinking again, and while it only lasted a few days, I was immediately homeless. The alcohol stopped working so I went to my other go-to which was heroin and I overdosed. I woke up in Bethesda Hospital very ungrateful. I tried another halfway and for a few months and I was doing alright. I still didn’t expand my spiritual growth and relapsed again on a flight back home to Pennsylvania. I drank and did my thing like everything was good but deep down I knew, the seed was planted. I moved back in with my parents because that’s what all 52-year-old alcoholics do. Then the night came when my mother and I had words and I could see all the pain and hurt that I caused her. That stuck in my head. The next morning I woke up and something changed, I knew I couldn’t go on like this. I called a friend of mine in recovery and he picked me up and took me to detox. I went through yet another treatment center and had a spiritual experience. I knew something had to change. I became willing to do whatever it takes to stay sober. Today I continue with the same willingness and vigor that I had upon getting out. My sobriety date is 11/4/17. By the Grace of God, I am still sober and do my part to help others like me. The post From Tragedy to Sobriety appeared first on Transformations Treatment Center. from https://www.transformationstreatment.center/alumni/from-tragedy-to-sobriety/ By: Devora Shabtai, Jewish Faith-Based Program Manager, and Jamie Salsberg, Clinical Director
The past several weeks have been permeated by a universally felt sense of confusion, fear, and helplessness that, for many, has been unprecedented in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Amid this period of uncertainty, many exert effort to tap into their inner resources and reservoirs of strength. Some do so through stepping up to take action whether it be getting involved in service work or finding ways to use their individual talents to support others. Others find strength through meaningful time with loved ones, engaging in enjoyable activities, or within the quiet of solitude. Yet, in this period of chaos, there is one coping strategy that appears to be somewhat global- that of turning to a Higher Power. This response is not surprising as it has been documented that people have turned to a Higher Power to provide comfort in times of difficulty throughout time.”¹ In fact, research has found that one of the most significant psychological benefits of spirituality/religion is the enhanced ability to cope with distress such as illness.”² Common spiritual coping strategies involve strengthening the belief that one’s difficult circumstance contains meaning or purpose, surrendering a distressing situation over to a Higher Power, and/or building a spiritual connection with one’s Higher Power or others. Many studies have identified that several core spiritual beliefs such as faith in a benevolent Higher power not only provides emotional comfort but actually has a positive impact on the very thought processes that could lead to anxiety or depression themselves.³ These protective cognitive effects include increased capacity to tolerate uncertainty, to accept that one is not in control, and/or to feel one’s creator is actively involved in his/her life. It is these positive consequences, in particular, that are thought to lead to greater emotional wellbeing in times of distress or challenge.4 Individuals in treatment for substance use and/or mental health disorders are no strangers to pandemics. Or feeling powerless. As it says in the Big Book, with these disorders “there goes annihilation of all the things worthwhile in life.”5 Those who have been ensnared by the viciousness of addiction and mental health disorders have faced the looming threat of destruction to their physical, financial, emotional lives and personal relationships. And through this profound challenge, many in recovery, too, have found a renewed sense of hope, clarity, and purpose through turning to a Higher Power: “With few exceptions, our members find that they have tapped an unsuspected inner resource which they presently identify with their own conception of a Power greater than themselves”6. In witnessing the range of spiritual responses to COVID-19 by many individuals across the globe, it is not surprising that faith (and other components of spiritual connection) often plays a significant role in treatment and recovery from substance use. For some, this means being able to gain wisdom, purpose, and direction from the teachings and principles of one’s spiritual or religious tradition. For others, this means learning to turn over control and strengthening one’s ability to accept uncertainty through trust in God. And for others, spending time in prayer and meditation. A robust body of research has uncovered that internal spiritual/religious beliefs (in addition to practices) confer significant therapeutic value for those confronting substance use. A 2001 study conducted by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse concluded that “religion and spirituality can play a powerful role in the prevention and treatment of substance abuse and in the maintenance of sobriety,”7 and other researchers have similarly stated that “religious beliefs, practices, and ministries not only provide succor and solace to those in need; they provide tangible, valuable resources that can help prevent and address substance abuse.”8 The recovery process from addiction or mental health disorders is essentially a guided process of achieving surrender, and in turn, helps empower the individual to achieve a newfound sense of wellbeing. Taken together, spiritual/religious beliefs have been found to help combat anxiety and depression, and provide purpose and meaning in life, and in turn, promote long-term recovery and mental health. Fortunately, many seeking help have themselves expressed interest in incorporating spirituality into treatment.9 At Transformations, we strongly believe in the power of integrating spirituality and faith into the therapeutic process for those who wish to do so. From groups that incorporate spiritual principles and literature, to individual sessions with therapists experienced in providing spiritually-integrated treatment, our faith-based programs are designed to provide a platform for each client to harness those aspects of spiritual belief or practice that are personally meaningful. Each client in our faith-based tracks is provided a variety of opportunities to utilize his or her spiritual or religious identity as a tool for increasing resilience and sense of purpose during the treatment period. Over the past few weeks, we have seen this come to life as clients in our Faith-Based programs have been able to turn to faith as an ally during this uncertain time. As one client so powerfully shared this week during a faith-based group, “being reminded of these ideas helped my refuge in this chaos. I don’t feel so alone.” Particularly in a time when social distancing has people feeling isolated, connecting to something greater than one’s self can become paramount to emotional safety and security. Even while experiencing physical distance, reigniting one’s connection with and faith in God or a Higher Power can be a means of maintaining well-being despite powerlessness. One especially important component of the recovery process is that it teaches the individual that he or she cannot do this alone. In a time where being physically alone may be necessary for health and safety, finding ways to connect with something larger may mean the difference between isolation and survival. For more information on our faith-based programs please click HERE! _____________________________________________________________
The post Placing Our Faith in Faith appeared first on Transformations Treatment Center. from https://www.transformationstreatment.center/clinical/placing-our-faith-in-faith/ By Jamie Salsberg, LCSW, CAP, EMDR, Clinical Director As the global pandemic continues, and more people are finally beginning to truly understand the need for social distancing, fears of isolation are also growing. Does social distancing automatically create social isolation? This is a particularly important idea for anybody struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, as a form of social distancing and isolation have inevitably become functions of their disease. Further, they are repeatedly told that their recovery is dependent upon learning to function with ongoing and healthy support and connection. The idea of physical separation from the people around them can be a terrifying concept, particularly for those who want to get better, since many of them may feel they are choosing between their physical survival that requires separating from others, and their emotional survival the necessitates connecting with them. For those individuals dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues, this is an extremely challenging and sometimes paralyzing concern. Many of these individuals have spent significant periods of time alone and separated from others both physically and emotionally, during the worst parts of their struggles with their disease. As they seek treatment, they are encouraged to share and spend time with others who have similar challenges and may have been doing so in treatment facilities around the country, despite the current pandemic. This only makes the notion of leaving or completing treatment right now, even scarier. Imagine spending several weeks in a facility with others and being told that the only way to survive is to create a strong, connected social support system, while simultaneously, the outside world is being asked to physically separate from one another. Recovery can be challenging enough without the backdrop of a world instructed to keep their distance. Compounding this fact is the idea that for many, distancing themselves from others offers a sense of comfort, as their disease created the absence of social connection and they are accustomed to being alone; these individuals must also consider the fact that this isolation could mean the difference between life and death. What do we tell people in early recovery from mental health and substance abuse issues about their survival? Of course, it is significant that we not minimize the seriousness of COVID-19, and the importance of following the recommendations of scientists, epidemiologists, and other experts, who highlight the need for physical separation to minimize the impact of global mortality. However on the other hand, for many of these individuals, the risk of harm may be significantly higher from separation and isolation that result from overdose, depression, anxiety or suicide than from COVID-19. If these individuals cannot find the support and connection that will help them to recover, their mortality is significantly at risk. Add to this, the fact that stress, anxiety, and depression significantly impact the body and therefore lower immune response, and people struggling with these issues are in an extremely difficult spot. So what is the answer? Are we to tell people in early recovery from mental health and addiction that they should ignore the recommendations and put themselves at risk of infection in order to manage their emotional stability? Do we allow themselves to cut themselves off once again from human contact and support that we know is needed for them to flourish? While globalization and connection of the world may be what contributed to the novel coronavirus becoming a global pandemic, the same global community in this day and age may be the thing that can save us; particularly for those dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues. Imagine a global pandemic occurring 20 or 30 years ago when we had no global communities, no Facebook, no instant access to phones and computers, no video chats, and no ability to deliver healthcare services without in-person contact. One of the most inspiring outcomes of this pandemic has been the human need for connection, contact, and support that has shined through in spite of the current conditions. All over the world, we see people being creative in finding ways to acknowledge those on the front lines, reach out to those who most need support, and finding ways to connect that are still safe regardless of how significant social distancing may be. We see interactive online meetings popping up, telehealth services increasing, and people finding ways to be healthy and connected without being in physical contact with one another. If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or mental health, do not allow social distancing to become social isolation. This goes for the families of those with these ailments, as well as the individuals themselves. Watching a family member wrestle with substance abuse or addiction can be emotional, trying, and excruciating and doing this alone only adds fuel to the fire. We have so many ways to connect, even in the absence of physical contact, so we all have a responsibility to do so. While many have and will suffer from the impact of this virus physically, we can prevent many more from suffering from the impact emotionally. Often it is in our most trying times that we find ways to overcome and achieve together. If you are stuck at home, take a moment to reach out to someone you have not spoken to; check in with a family member; do something kind for a neighbor; send pictures or inspiring words to those you think may be struggling, and be sure to maintain a connection for yourself. In the words of many of the messages being spread as of late, we are all in this together; but in order for that to be the case, we need to make sure that we act that way, stay connected, and ask for and offer support to the people around us, near and far, to get through this crisis. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse and/or mental health issues, please reach out; we are in this together! The post Finding Connection in a Time of Distancing appeared first on Transformations Treatment Center. from https://www.transformationstreatment.center/clinical/finding-connection-in-a-time-of-distancing/ Transformations is a therapy middle that opened its doors in Delray Beach, Florida, in 2007. We offer substance abuse and psychological well being remedy applications which might be individualized to our clients’ needs. Recognized for our excellent diagnostics, assessments, remedy planning and medical care, we assist purchasers cease their drug and alcohol use-however more importantly, we train them how one can keep that life-style so they can get their lives again and relationships on track. We’re a twin analysis facility and in addition to treating drug and alcohol problems, we assist clients overcome gambling and sex addiction, trauma, depression, grief, loss and anger administration issues. At Transformations, we heal the whole person-emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. We provide the most up-to-date, revolutionary remedy and continuously adapt to higher ourselves and benefit our clients. Our therapists embody licensed psychological well being counselors, licensed addiction professionals and masters-degree therapists who, along with the other extremely nurturing employees, care deeply concerning the success of those we’re treating. We’re a relatively small facility with numerous staff, which permits our clients to obtain the eye they need any time of day or night. Our medical and holistic professionals work in tandem to produce secure, holistic dietary supplements which will scale back and/or remove using prescription drugs and decrease symptoms of withdrawal. Shoppers discover that these supplements help with sleeping, concentration, anxiousness issues and general effectively-being. We assist purchasers get to their underlying issues through frequent one-on-one remedy tailored to treat their particular issues. We also require shoppers to attend group sessions that help them be taught from others. Our two-bed room condos include a separate bed room and bath providing a serene place to chill out and mirror alone. Our continuum of care stretches from detox to an alumni program serving to preserve purchasers on the fitting path forever. We’re extraordinarily happy with the therapy center we’ve created and the employees we’ve employed to assist shoppers overcome addiction and transfer on to lead happy, fulfilling lives. For those who or a cherished one is suffering, please contact us. This is the place hurting ends and healing begins. The Transformations difference includes not solely treating your bodily dependence, but also the mental or emotional aspects of your habit bearing in mind your life-style, atmosphere and any co-occurring (dual prognosis) well being issues which will play a part in your dependence to medicine or alcohol with a view to put together you for a lasting highway to recovery. In case you are combating substance abuse and/or psychological well being points, you should know that you are not alone. You make the most important choice of your life and we're right here that can assist you each step of the way.Our family and friends imply a lot to us, and if you realize somebody who is struggling but is afraid to ask for assist for themselves, we will help them take step one towards a fulfilling life they deserve. We deeply worth our relationships with referring partners. We try to make sure our course of continues to be a smooth one for the consumer and for our partners. Our professional connections assist purchasers keep in recovery for a lifetime. Transformations is an upscale, but inexpensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility the place shoppers start their journey towards healthy living.Our customized remedy plans cater to your needs and are skillfully applied Addiction Treatment by extremely skilled master-degree therapists. We take a holistic method that not only treats the addiction, but in addition heals the mind, physique and spirit-in addition to the household an essential component usually overlooked. At Summit Detox, you may expect to find competent, caring, committed medical workers, many of which are in restoration, to allow them to relate to your experience.We offer you the care you need by providing a full continuum of services in order for you to have the most effective therapy to begin your restoration journey.If you happen to’re scuffling with mental well being points, the suitable therapy program and the correct support might help you make an enduring recovery. We're a mental well being facility that appreciates your need for a therapy plan to be tailor-made only for you. We work with purchasers to know their specific wants and determine how we are able to make the greatest impression on bettering their quality of life. We don’t search for “fast fixes” and we are dedicated to building a foundation for long-time period health. Please attain out to our admissions division for extra information if you, your loves ones, or anyone you know is fighting psychological health issues. |
About UsThe Transformations difference includes not only treating your physical dependence, but also the mental or emotional aspects of your addiction taking into consideration your lifestyle, environment and any co-occurring (dual diagnosis) health disorders that may play a part in your dependence to drugs or alcohol in order to prepare you for a lasting road to recovery. ArchivesCategories |