Drug abuse and addiction are among the most pressing issues facing our public health system today. For a long time, there was a shortage of adequate resources available to help those who were looking for effective addiction treatment options. Fortunately, this is starting to change. Now, there are trained professionals who are willing to lend a helping hand to those who need it. One of the options comes in the form of addiction treatment. There are lots of options available to those who want to seek addiction treatment. It is critical for people to keep a few important points in mind.
What is Addiction Treatment?
For those who might not know, addiction treatment is any medical treatment or therapy that is focused on helping people break free from the bonds of addiction and get a fresh start. Addiction is a disease that takes root in someone’s mind and makes them believe that they need a certain substance just to survive. This might be drugs, alcohol, or anything else. The brain becomes miswired and believes it needs these substances just to stay alive, similar to oxygen, food, or water.
Addiction treatment focuses on helping people get the wires in their brains back to where they need to be. This treatment can take many forms. Some people seek outpatient treatment to help with their addiction while other people might start with an inpatient stay before they transition to the outside world. The good news is that addiction can be tailored to meet the needs of the individual. One option that people need to consider is the possibility of seeking treatment for addiction outside of their hometown. There are a few benefits of this that everyone should know.
Why is it Beneficial to Travel out of State for Treatment?
Some people might be hesitant to leave the comfort of their hometown and travel for addiction treatment. There are a few reasons why everyone should think about putting in this effort. These include:
1. Escape Old Friends: Getting away from old friends is one of the key benefits of traveling for addiction treatment. Not everyone is going to want to leave their friends behind; however, many people end up addicted to drugs and alcohol because of the friends they have made. Some people might get worried that they are going to end up in the same spot as they were before if they don’t sever these ties. One of the easiest ways to do this is to move geographically and get away from those relationships.
2. Enjoy a Fresh Start: During any addiction treatment process, it is important to get a fresh start. That is where going someplace else for addiction treatment is going to be key. Everyone needs to have a fresh start. This means looking at life with a new perspective. In order to gather a new perspective, it is important to change the location. Seeking addiction treatment somewhere else can make this happen.
3. Enjoy a New Scene: In addition to gaining a new perspective, it can also be helpful to simply enjoy a new location. It can be helpful for people to focus on themselves and think clearly if they seek out help for drug abuse and addiction in someplace beautiful. While some people underestimate the importance of the location, the weather can actually play a major role in the recovery process.
4. Avoid Distractions: When someone seeks out addiction treatment close to their hometown, they are going to be distracted. They are going to be focused on friends, their families, and other obligations. During the process of addiction treatment, it is important for everyone to stay focused on themselves. This is a time for people to be selfish. They cannot help others if they do not first help themselves.
5. Try Something New: Finally, it is a good idea to move out of one’s hometown to try something new. Often, people have tried addiction treatment at home and it hasn’t worked. This is a time to try something new. Furthermore, if someone is willing to go somewhere else for addiction treatment, they are more likely to be committed to the recovery process because they have invested more in it. Consider going someplace else for addiction treatment. Branch out.
Let Us Help You Today!
At Soba Recovery, we are a luxury detox and drug rehab program with professionals who work hard to stay up to date on the latest treatment information in the field so that we can help everyone who comes through our door. We would be happy to do the same for you as well. If you would like to learn more about our services and how we can help you, please contact us today! We look forward to hearing from you.
Recovering from drug and alcohol addiction doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, you can still rehabilitate your life and have fun. You can abstain from drugs and alcohol and enjoy concerts, the great outdoors, festivals, and fairs. This is especially true if you’re recovering in Texas.
Everyone is familiar with the saying “Everything is bigger in Texas”, so we are sure that you will be pleasantly surprised to find out that applies to even our tourist spots. Texas is as diverse as it is huge. There is quite a lot to see and do inside the Alamo City no matter what time of day it is. In addition to the state’s many cities, coastal beaches, mountain ranges, deserts, and state parks, the Lone Star State also has a wealth of activities to enjoy. Whether you choose to explore their lovely zoo with more than 750+ species within 56 acres or the state’s historic sites, esteemed museums, rodeos, country music festivals, or its wide range of other attractions, it won’t take you long to realize that there’s a lot to do in Texas.
Being under the influence isn’t the only way you can enjoy yourself. Albeit, finding activities or entertainment that doesn’t revolve around being under the influence can be difficult if you don’t know where to look, and to help you narrow down some of your options, here are a few of the Lone Star State’s top sober activities.
The Top Sober Activities You Shouldn’t Miss In Texas
1. Discover New Adventures at Natural Bridge Caverns
If you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, channel your inner Indiana Jones and visit the Natural Bridge Caverns. These caverns, which were discovered more than 50 years ago, feature more than 10,000 unique geological formations.
In March 1960, four St. Mary University students were convinced that large underground passages existed under the 60-foot limestone bridge from which the caverns are named. After obtaining permission to explore the area, they climbed and crawled into the darkness and discovered 2 miles of vast caves and cavern passages. Eleven years later, the passageways became a national natural landmark.
Today, people from all over the world come to see the cavern’s unique mineral formations. You can also explore newly uncovered passages. Whether you choose to go on a discovery expedition, explore hidden passages, or take a private tour, Texas’ premier natural attraction will give you a look beneath the earth’s surface that’s sure to leave you in awe. You can also find a wide range of sober activities to enjoy above the caverns. The surface attractions include:
Ziplines
Mining and panning for gems
A 5,000-square-foot maze
A treetop climbing adventure
You can also check out the Natural Bridge Caverns’ event page for a list of upcoming activities as well.
2. Get Physically Fit and Reconnect With Mother Nature At Big Bend National Park
You can commune with nature and get some exercise by walking and hiking through Big Bend National Park. The park, which borders Mexico, has some of the most dramatic and beautiful scenery in the state, including 1,200 different plant species. Big Bend National Park also offers spectacular views of canyons, the Chisos Mountains, and the Rio Grande River.
Even though Big Bend is known for its hiking and backpacking trails, the park is also a perfect place to:
Birdwatch. The park is home to more than 450 different species of birds.
Stargaze. As a certified international dark sky park, Big Bend has one of the darkest skies in the continental US, which makes it an ideal place for stargazing enthusiasts.
Go camping. If you love the outdoors, you’ll feel right at home on Big Bend’s beautiful campgrounds.
Paddle along the Rio Grande River and spend a little time wading in the water on warm summer days.
Picnic. Whether you choose to enjoy a healthy snack off the beaten path, near the campgrounds or along a walking trail, Big Bend is a wonderful place to sit back, enjoy the weather, reconnect with mother nature, and count your blessings.
Scenic Drives. If you’re not in the mood to hike, you can also hop in your car, hit the road, and explore the park’s gorgeous vitas on one of Big Bend’s many scenic drives.
3. Unleash Your Inner Artist At Cadillac Ranch
Even though Cadillac Ranch was created all the way back in 1974 by a group of unconventional artists known as the Ant Farm group, today, the Texas attraction is more popular than ever. This seemingly odd attraction consisting of 10 Cadillac cars covered in multicolored graffiti which are half-buried in the ground is now one of Texas’ most iconic sites. Because everyone adds their own creative mark to the Cadillacs in the ground, the artwork on the vehicles is an ever-changing canvas. The site is free to visit and you are more than welcome to unleash your inner artist or tell your own story on the Cadillacs themselves. In other words, feel free to spray paint your own design on the cars. If you’re feeling especially creative, bring your own spray paint. If this is an impromptu trip, you can find spray paint cans of all colors left on the ground from thousands of other people who have also shared their artistry at Cadillac Ranch.
4. Enjoy Your Sobriety at Sans Bar, A Sober Bar In Austin, Texas
Created by addiction counselor Chris Marshall, Sans Bar is the first sober bar in Austin, Texas. After setting up a GoFundMe in 2015 because he grew tired of watching people he loved die from addiction, Marshall created Sans Bar, Texas’ first alcohol-free bar.
“Over and over, I watched clients and friends struggle and relapse, returning to alcohol, in part because they felt socially isolated,” Marshall explained. “Sometimes, tragically, it ended in death.” Today, Sans Bar helps adults socialize while staying sober. The sober bar offers mocktails and a wide range of entertainment such as karaoke nights, live music, sober sports viewing, and drag shows. But Sans Bar is more than just a place with great drinks and good food.
Sans Bar also remains open throughout the day for the local community in Austin offering services that can improve your physical, mental and spiritual health. Some of the bar’s community-oriented recovery services include:
Designed and built in 1929, the Majestic Theater was the largest theater in Texas for many years and the second-largest motion picture theater in the country. Today, the Majestic Theater is considered to be one of the most elaborate theaters in the country and is San Antonio’s premier performing arts facility. Even though the theater is known for its Broadway shows, you can also enjoy a concert, comedy show, and other live events taking place in the heart of downtown San Antonio.
The Majestic Theater is also nestled in the heart of San Antonio’s famed Riverwalk area, where visitors can wind past restaurants and shops following the San Antonio River. Just steps from the Riverwalk is the legendary Alamo, arguably the most famous historic site in Texas, as well as other attractions such as the Briscoe Western Art Museum and Artspace San Antonio.
6. Visit the Farmers Market at the Pearl
Think of the farmers market at pearl as a Boston creme donut enticing and inviting on the outside, but absolutely amazing on the inside. With almost 20 friendly merchants and dealers selling things like hot food for on the go-to standard jewelry, there is undoubtedly something for everybody inside. The pearl district is not lacking in picturesque beauty in the landscape and design so you can never get bored with the layout while you explore. This community gathering is actually dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and fun for the entire family without being horribly expensive. Feel free to wake up and start your day there, coffee in your hand, and central downtown just a few blocks away if you would enjoy more solidarity. There is something for all kinds of people in this market.
7. See a Rodeo
You don’t have to be a farm-raised cowboy to enjoy a rodeo and some good ole fashioned roughhousing. Make your way over to the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo during the month of February and March, or perhaps the Teja Rodeo which is from the spring to the end of fall; to enjoy bull-riding, barrel racing, and calf roping. Live music is also happily included with the admission price, along with the chance to ride an infamous mechanical bull or you could get your shoes shined if you aren’t one for roughhousing. There are still activities available for those who aren’t seeking a quick thrill and prefer to relax in their downtime, like the hayrides or an armadillo race.
8. Visit The Esquire Tavern
The Esquire Taverns is just as mysterious and mystical as the name suggests. They distribute alcohol of course but there is still plenty to do for those who don’t drink! There is delectable food waiting for you at the pub, so don’t be hesitant when it comes to grabbing a seat! Food and drinks aren’t the only things that await you at the pub either, be sure to catch a fantastic musical act for the night before heading home. Whether you are here accompanied by your loved ones or for business, you are undoubtedly going to enjoy your visit to The Esquire Tavern.
9. Get your game on with Knight Watch Games
San Antonio is happy to cater to all tastes and if your tastes happen to be competitive cards/board games such as Dungeons And Dragons or Game Of Thrones in a hall that could make the most professional of game designers jealous-Then Knight Watch is definitely down your alley. With an amazing combo of a gaming hall for you to play to your heart’s content, a game shop for you to purchase your own games to play in the future, and a clothing shop to dress the part of any renaissance role you see fit-Knight Watch is a personal getaway for anyone who enjoys thoughtful games and trials that kicks the brain into motion. Knight Watch accepts all visitors with open arms whether you come by yourself or with friends.
10. Explore your artistic side with ArtPace
Are you on the artistic side? Find yourself marveling at art? Then the ArtPace is the place for you! The museum is definitely an acquired taste, full to the brim with contemporary art. Nine artists are invited to live there and work throughout the year, three from different parts of Texas and others from different parts of the United States and the world. One of their most recent partnerships was with Austin Eastciders in “Cider Sessions” where they distributed free cider and visitors were invited to see just how artists were able to create their pieces. ArtPace does not charge any admission money and prides itself on being open to all parts of the public. All in all, if you lean more on the creative side ArtPace will be a memorable trip to take.
San Antonio is primarily known for the Alamo, however, that does not mean that there aren’t other fun things to do when moseying through town besides drinking. It is also the home to many amusement parks such as Six flags, the wet and wild SeaWorld, as well as the famous river walk. Addiction recovery can be difficult, but we are more than willing to show you the best of the best in San Antonio; So you can reward yourself and take the vacation that you deserve while maintaining your sobriety.
Other Ways to Have Sober Fun in Texas
One of the biggest challenges that people are going to face on this journey is figuring out how to have fun. Let’s face it: drugs and alcohol are often used at parties to facilitate fun. The good news is that there are plenty of other ways to have fun in sobriety.
The area around San Antonio, TX is filled with great ways to have fun. Now that people are sober, this is a time to take risks appropriately, having fun without breaking the rules. This is very different (but fulfilling!) from the type of fun people have while drunk or under the influence of drugs.
San Antonio is known for its natural beauty. You can go hiking for the first time and explore the great outdoors. If you’re an adrenaline ‘junkie’, take a trip skydiving in the local area. Why not also take a risk and try to meet new people? One of the most important things people have to accomplish when they attain sobriety is finding new relationships that are going to help them maintain that sobriety. Meeting new people is a great way to do exactly that.
In general, people can have fun in sobriety by doing the things that “normal” people do. While “normal” is just a social construct, we’re talking about the stuff you probably wouldn’t have done while you were getting high, like riding a bike. You probably weren’t going to the movies either with friends while you were using but it’s actually very fun. You’ll be surprised at the joy that ensues while picking out candy and popcorn.
Try Picking Up an Old Hobby
There are plenty of people who still wish they could do something from their days as a child. This might mean an old sport, playing a musical instrument, or learning a second language. These are all great sober hobbies that you can do with your new free time that’s no longer being monopolized by addiction. It’s also important to reconnect with hobbies that remind you of what you were like before you started using drugs or alcohol.
Why Having Fun in Sobriety Matters
The journey to sobriety is challenging. Tears, anger, and hurdles to overcome are usually involved but it’s worth it. People in recovery work extremely hard for their sobriety and deserve to have fun. Happy and healthy individuals are less likely to relapse as well.
Let Us Help You Find Fun in Sobriety!
Here at Soba Recovery, we’re proud to call Texas home. We wholeheartedly believe that with professional addiction treatment you can thrive in every area of your life: physically, emotionally, psychologically, financially, and socially. Participating in sober activities can help you:
Relieve stress
Improve your physical fitness
Meet new people with similar interests and values
Change your outlook on life
Improve your overall well being
Reduce your risk of relapse
We provide a wide variety of detox and inpatient treatment options for substance abuse. We also offer a unique luxury program that combines traditional treatment and modern therapies to assist clients on the path to addiction recovery and sobriety. Please contact us today if you would like to learn more about our service!
Kicking the cocaine habit is difficult due to the mental and physical effects it has on the body. You need both medical and psychological help to get you through the withdrawal effects of this drug. When it comes to quitting, though, you are not alone. Evaluate these ten ways to see which can help you the most to kick coke to the curb. You may need to try several to get over your addiction.
1. Stopping Cold Turkey or Detoxing
Generally, stopping cold turkey is the least preferable way to quit cocaine because doing so can cause serious side effects. These side effects can include severe drowsiness, agitation, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, and paranoia. The mental effects of stopping coke may be serious enough to require a doctor’s intervention to keep you from hurting yourself.
If you want to stop cold turkey, consider checking yourself into a medically supervised detox facility. The doctors and nurses on hand will ensure that you get the support you need as your body goes through withdrawal.
3. Social Support Groups
While you go through withdrawal, you will need help to work through the emotions that emerge during quitting. Talking about your feelings and experiences with others who are going through the same steps may help you to power through the withdrawal stages and after.
3. Find Replacements for Cocaine
Because substance abuse no longer holds your life hostage, you will have more time on your hands. Unless you find something to fill that time with, you may go back to using drugs. Take the time during recovery to try out new hobbies, such as playing an instrument, knitting, or volunteering. Working with your hands can distract you when you experience cravings.
4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a psychological technique that helps patients to change how they respond to specific situations. For addiction treatment, if you used cocaine in certain situations, by going through CBT, you will learn to do other things than turn to drugs. If you choose a formal counseling program or therapist, most use this therapeutic technique. Even 12-step programs integrate elements of CBT into their methods.
5. Motivational Incentives
For some people, motivation helps. Create rewards for yourself that correspond to times without coke. For example, you may use the money saved on drugs to buy yourself a new video game or jacket if you go for a week without using drugs. You may also increase the incentives to encourage yourself to extend the length of time you go cocaine-free. Perhaps you invest in the down payment for a new car after lasting a year of living cleanly.
6. Balance Your Life
Your life will get turned upside down when you stop using cocaine. The parties you once went to will no longer be options for you because you may feel too tempted to use drugs again. Part of getting over substance abuse is discovering how to keep yourself balanced.
Get regular exercise, develop good sleep habits, and eat a healthy diet. These activities will keep your body and mind healthy. They will also replace some of the time you once devoted in your schedule to drug use. If you used coke to improve your mood or energy levels, healthier living will replace it to give you more energy.
7. Unfriend Some People
Carefully examine your life, and if you have friends who encouraged you in your addiction, break ties with them. People who push you toward self-destructive behaviors, like substance abuse, are not friends.
To keep yourself from feeling lonely, look for activities in your area that do not require drugs where you can make friends. Sign up for a softball league, visit a house of worship, or volunteer your time. Making friends outside drug-use activities can make quitting easier.
8. Identify and Eliminate Triggers
Triggering events, feelings, locations, and people can be difficult to avoid, especially if you retain your old routine while trying to quit. You need to assess your life and identify times when you would use coke. If you only used it as a party drug, you should avoid going to parties for a while. For some people, the trigger may have been stress in their life. Getting more exercise or meditation to reduce stress can help remove that trigger. Talk to your therapist about possible triggers and how you can get those out of your life.
9. Check Into an Intensive Treatment Facility
If you have a serious addiction, check yourself into a substance abuse treatment facility. Though in 2013, only 6% of people in rehab centers had a cocaine addiction, 68% of those use more than one drug.
The advantage of professional treatment facilities is the access you have to a variety of services, such as CBT, intensive individual therapy, family therapy, psychodynamic group therapy, and more. At addiction recovery facilities, you can detox from coke, begin therapy, and discover ways to stay drug-free for life.
10. Keep Trying
Unfortunately, those who recover from reliance on coke may experience a relapse. In fact, between 40% and 60% of those who recover once will relapse. Don’t let this discourage you because it reflects the recurrence rate of serious medical issues like asthma or high blood pressure, which can have a recurrence of 50% to 70%.
Get the professional addiction treatment you need to recover from your problem in a relaxing, luxurious setting. Contact us at SOBA Recovery today for more information on our cocaine and other substance addiction recovery programs.
Alcohol and Cocaine, THC, hallucinogens and a myriad of synthetic drugs have been scientifically documented to cause nausea, moodiness, sleepiness, unsteadiness, and aggression. They are also harmful to your eyes too. The abuse of these substances has scientifically proven to cause eye strain, cataracts, vision blurriness, in addition to temporary and permanent blindness, induce nausea, moodiness, sleepiness, unsteadiness, and aggression.
Cigarette Smoking
Cigarette smoking can injure your cataracts which affect the crystalline lenses of your eyes. Your Cataracts is a space of your eye that makes up 1/3 of the images that the brain develops by focusing light onto the retina.
How your eyes look on Dextromethorphan
The abuse of Dextromethorphan can cause you to display symptoms of drunkenness. The extended abuse of this drug can cause sporadic eye movements known as nystagmus. Dextromethorphan is an ingredient commonly used in cough, cold and flu medicines.
How your eyes look on Cocaine
Physicians can utilize cocaine in a medical facility as an eye anesthetic. On the contrary, if someone offers you cocaine outside of a medical facility you should not take it; you should decline on the grounds that they are not a licensed physician. Cocaine abuse artificially affects your eyes react to light for abnormal periods of time. There are many ophthalmic side effects relating to the improper use of cocaine; you might be unable to sense any extensive injuries right away. However, over time, lesions on the retina and corneal ulcers can occur. Prolonged abuse of cocaine can also cause pain, fuzzy vision and permanent blindness.
How your eyes look on Heroin
Individuals who experience heroin addiction and drug abuse may display symptoms of having hard and constricted pupils. Typically their pupils will not react properly to lower levels of light, which can impair their vision. In addition, prolonged constriction of their arteries or blood vessels can lead to temporary blurred vision or permanent vision loss.
How your eyes look on Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, chemicals within alcohol and drugs can produce a subtle misalignment of your eyes. This can enhance the feeling of nauseousness and lightheadedness; which could also lead to vomiting.
Red or Bloodshot eyes are a prevailing symptom of intoxication from Alcohol abuse. Blood vessels spread from the ophthalmic artery curving in a pattern to cross over the optic nerve. They penetrate the back of the eye and run medially near the Choroid and Sclera Blood vessels which can swell and become enlarged. There are around 6 to 12 Blood vessels for each eye. Symptoms of nausea in the eyes can include variation in the eyes, abnormal pupil diameter, irregular eye movement, and the discoloration of the iris can be used to help one gauge whether another person is inebriated.
Inhalants that cause brain and eye damage
Paint thinner, glue, or nitrous should not be inhaled. These substances can cause brain damage as well as eye deterioration. Abusing these inhalants can cause you to feel intoxicated and light-headed. The inhalation of these substances will cause the eyes to water and change to a reddish color.
Methamphetamine and eye damage
Methamphetamine abuse can cause the eyes to move in irregular motions. In fact, the movements can be almost ten times faster than your normal eye movement. These irregular movements can damage and strain your eye muscles over time.
How your eyes are affected using legal and illegal narcotics
The abuse of legal narcotic drugs such as hydrocodone, fentanyl, and morphine has the potential to damage your eyes at high doses because they can constrict the pupils. Illegal narcotic drugs such as crack cocaine can also constrict the pupils. As extended abuse occurs symptoms of an overdose will be evident because the pupils will not properly respond to changes in light.
How your eyes look on Phencyclidine or PCP
Phencyclidine, otherwise known as PCP, has a pungent chemical taste. PCP can be ground into a white crystalline powder that can be dissolved into alcohol or water. In this form, the drug can easily be applied to leafy plants like mint, marijuana, parsley, and oregano. The powdery form makes it easier for the body to quickly absorb the substances into the bloodstream. Phencyclidine or PCP can cause a user to experience rapid eye motions that the user cannot control. On the other hand, a person who uses PCP can develop an expressionless stare for 4-6 hours. During this time they might not respond to direct visual cues. The tablet forms can be mixed easily with colors. The idea is to make the drug look like legitimate medicine. If it looks like a tablet it will be easier to distribute.
In conclusion.
The chemicals in the aforementioned drugs can cause addiction because they will compel you to feel carefree, elated or just upbeat; they manage the neurotransmitters in your brain. These chemicals have the ability to affect several physiological functions in your body including the muscles in your eyes. Vision is a crucial role in our ability to balance, adjust our bodies in space, and observe the pattern or movement of variables within our surroundings. If you are taking any of the aforementioned drugs, you should seek medical assistance right away. The prolonged usage of these drugs can ultimately cause you to lose your sight.
Drug abuse and addiction are among the most significant problems facing the modern healthcare system today. Those who have watched a loved one struggle with drug addiction know just how quickly this problem can tear someone’s life apart. On the other hand, the problems related to drug abuse and addiction tend to start slowly and insidiously. They are typically easy to overlook. It might start with someone who struggles to battle a simple injury and illness. Then, it balloons into a tremendous problem that can take someone’s entire life down with them, impacting family members and friends along the way.
Therefore, it is critical for everyone to know about the common signs that indicate drug abuse is a serious issue. Knowing these signs ahead of time will help everyone get the help they need as early as possible.
1. The Cravings and Relapses are Real
One of the most significant signs of serious drug abuse is the development of cravings that will lead to a relapse. For example, anxiety and depression are common side effects that come with cravings for an addictive substance. Difficulty concentrating is another common sign. At first, people will promise to give up drugs and say they can do it on their own. Then, when the going gets tough, the cravings start and these symptoms start to set in. That is when the drug use is going to abandon all promises and go off in search of drugs again. Even though someone might say that he or she can quit anytime, this simply isn’t the case. He or she will need help to quit for good.
2. Tolerance Begins to Develop
Another common sign of drug abuse and addiction is the development of something called tolerance. This is the term used to describe the body getting used to having drugs in its system. At first, someone might not need a lot of the substance to achieve the intended effect. People can get high with a relatively small amount.
Then, as someone uses drugs more and more often, they are going to need more drugs to achieve the same effect. This is because the body is getting used to the substance and is developing something called tolerance.
When someone needs more of the drug, this is going to lead to bigger changes in someone’s life. This is going to impact that person’s appearance, eating habits, finances, and more.
3. The Lifestyle Begins to Change
As tolerance sets in, someone’s lifestyle is going to change. This is going to lead to risky behavior. This is because the person is going to place anything and everything else second to drug use. They might even engage in activities that they wouldn’t otherwise. This is going to include activities such as using drug paraphernalia, stealing from others, sharing needles with people, and more. This is going to impact both personal and professional relationships. Their physical health is going to be in jeopardy. This is where others are going to have to step in and help their family member or friend.
4. Motivation is Going to be Impacted
Gradually, someone who is addicted to drugs is going to start to ignore life’s other responsibilities. This might mean dropping out of school. This could mean ignoring work responsibilities. Motivation is going to be at a minimum and is going to strain relationships with family members and friends as well. All of this is going to be sacrificed at the altar of drug use. For this reason, everyone needs to keep an eye out for a drop in motivation or changes in someone’s memory. These are hallmark signs of drug abuse.
5. The Development of Withdrawal
When someone goes for any length of time without having drugs in the body, withdrawal symptoms are going to set in. This is going to come as a result of detox symptoms. The symptoms are going to vary from drug to drug; however, there are a few common themes. For example, sweats, shakes, and irritability and going to be common. Someone is going to have trouble sleeping as he or she goes through withdrawal. These symptoms can be unbearable and some might even lead to seizures. Those who are going through withdrawal are often going t to be begging for drugs. This is where the help of trained professionals is going to be needed.
Rely on the Professionals from Soba Recovery for Addiction Treatment
Anyone who has a loved one dealing with drug abuse knows that this is a serious problem that requires help from trained professionals. That is where Soba Recovery can be of assistance. We are a professional drug and alcohol treatment program with locations in Texas and Arizona. Combining proven methods with an innovative twist, Soba Recovery offers detox and inpatient assistance for those in need. To learn more call us today.
Sobriety is something you are striving hard for. You are tired of the addiction and all the negative things it has caused in your life. Your addiction recovery has you thinking positively most of the time but you are discovering that the first thirty days of sobriety are difficult. They are probably the most difficult part of the journey. You may see your body getting better, but the thoughts that pop up unwanted in your mind may have you confused, doubtful, and even scared. Know that all of this is a normal part of addiction recovery. There are some things that you can do to help you get through this difficult period and come out on the other side with more strength and determination than you may currently see as possible.
Plan, Plan, Plan
When every minute of the day is planned for, you don’t have time to dwell on the time you spent getting drunk or high. Schedule time for exercise, eating, attending meetings, and even relaxation. Start thinking about your future and make plans for what you want to do with your new-found energy, time, and money.
Attend All Meetings
Now more than any other time you need to be near people who understand what you are going through. Don’t make any excuses for missing meetings. Even if you are having a good day, go with the idea you might be able to support someone else.
Stay Physically Healthy
This includes eating well, exercising, and maintaining a good sleep schedule. It also means keeping up with any doctor visits. As your body is healing, you want to do all you can to help it along.
Take Up a New Hobby
Think about the things you have always wanted to learn. Sign up for a class, join a group, or design your own private learning system. If nothing new appeals to you right away, consider something you used to love before drugs or alcohol and re-ignite that passion. Do you feel the photography bug tugging at you? Maybe you can write that book you used to think about or start painting.
Write
Journaling is a way of getting all the negative thoughts out of your mind. Putting them on paper allows you to examine them and then push them aside, making room for different, more positive thoughts. It is often better to actually write with pen and paper but if that isn’t your thing, a computer keyboard will still serve the purpose.
Practice Forgiveness
As time goes on, you will think about all the pain you may have caused. This includes pain and damage to yourself. You can’t go back and change these things. What you can do is acknowledge these things and then forgive yourself. Know that you are beyond that place now and you can make the future better. Learn to see that you are human and humans mess up. What is important is to move forward with a plan on doing better.
Make Connections
You are not alone. It is possible that you lost all the people you normally associated with when you entered addiction recovery. Sobriety tends to make you see who really has your best interest in mind. There are plenty of people out there, however, who will support you. Go to places, meet people. Maybe start going to church if that is something that interests you. Join a club, visit places like museums and art galleries, and talk with people.
Discover New Places
Think about all the places you have wanted to visit but pushed aside because they didn’t fit with your addiction. Now is the time to explore these places. You don’t even have to travel far from home to find some of these places. However, if travel is something you have always wanted to do, maybe you can start planning a vacation or road trip now to give you something to work toward.
You Will Make It
It won’t be easy and anybody that tells you it will be hasn’t been through the process. There will be doubts and you may even stumble but you will make it if you keep your resolve. Realize that it didn’t take you a day to get to this point and it won’t take you a day to recover. The main thing is, you can make it. Look toward some of the above things, and use them to discover others. The journey ahead is worth it. You are worth it.
Overcoming an addiction can be the toughest challenge you will ever face in your life.
When you’ve grown to rely on an addictive substance, whether it’s drugs or alcohol, it can be nearly impossible to break free from their hold and take ownership of your life again. The good news for people is that they don’t have to struggle against their addictions alone.
In recent years, more and more treatment facilities have emerged and they are offering their services to individuals who need help overcoming their demons.
But where should you go if you want to be rehabilitated? The state of Texas is one place that is well worth considering.
The Lone Star State may not be the first place that popped into your head when you were trying to think of the best location for addiction treatment, but as you’ll soon learn, it has qualities that make it an ideal spot for recovery.
The Unique Locales in Texas Can Be Beneficial to Recovery
All kinds of factors can play a role in the development of an addiction. This 2018 article posted on Psychology Today highlights some of the factors that have the strongest influence. Among the factors is the learning environment, better known as the physical environment that an addict dwells in.
Per the article, when people start to develop a pattern of behavior, they also tend to associate a place with what they are doing. That is the learned behavior in question and it can become incredibly difficult to stop or even just control.
What’s also worth pointing out is that addicted individuals may be able to use or consume more of their preferred substances when they stay inside that familiar setting. Studies indicate that the body is better equipped to handle those substances when they’re taken in a recognizable setting, and thus, the addict may also end up drinking or using more than usual.
You can weaken the effect that a familiar location has on you by changing elements of it, but it would be even better if you could get settled somewhere even more unfamiliar as you try to recover.
That’s why Texas stands out as a great location for addiction treatment. Some of the locations there are so unique that you won’t be able to associate them with any of your old habits.
Once you enter a rehab facility there, it’s almost like a clean slate. You can’t connect anything to it so you can just start making memories as you go through the recovery process.
Even if you are a resident of Texas, their treatment centers will still be foreign to you. In this case, that’s more than welcome.
Sometimes, getting the chance to start over in a place you don’t know is exactly what you need to get your recovery on track.
Texas Offers Peaceful Environments to Recovering Addicts
An often-overlooked factor that can cause people to fall deeper into their addictions is stress. As pointed out by VeryWell Mind, stress by itself is not going to be the reason why you become addicted to drugs and alcohol. However, it can be a compounding factor.
The site further notes that addicts may use drugs and alcohol to cope with the stressful situations they are experiencing. Because the addictive substances only provide a temporary reprieve from the stress, many people tend to use them over and over again in order to continually keep the unpleasant feelings associated with stress at bay.
It’s easy to see how addicts can fall into a vicious cycle. Their desire to break free from the problems they encounter in daily life can wind up just making them dependent on substances truly harmful to them.
Again, it’s worth reiterating that stress alone will not be the reason why you end up addicted, but it certainly can be pointed to as a contributing factor.
If you’re in a rehab facility in Texas, you don’t have to deal with stress. They are typically located on isolated stretches of land, which is a good thing. Being in an isolated facility means that the people recovering there can experience some badly needed peace and quiet.
You can simply focus on your recovery and follow all the steps included in your treatment program.
Some addiction treatment centers may even allow their residents to take part in recreational activities that can help them further relax and unwind. Recovering individuals will not need to rely on substances to escape stress because that is nowhere to be found in the place they are currently staying in.
Conclusion
Recovering from addiction is like climbing up a mountain. It can be intimidating, frightening, and just seem downright impossible to pull off at times.
What you can do to improve your chances of succeeding is to set up base camp on the right spot, which in this case means going to an addiction treatment center in Texas. Contact Soba Texas today to get more information about our program. If you or a loved one are in need of help with addiction, don’t hesitate.
These powerful painkillers are extremely rampant in today’s society and need to be addressed more than the simple facts thrown around for addicts to digest. There has to be an intervention between primary care physician and addiction treatment centers that offer guidance and care for each person suffering from the throes of opioid addiction.
SOBA Recovery Center has a wealth of hope to offer each person who enters their doors in search of addiction treatment for opioids. An initial message of positivity alongside the beautiful facility and surroundings give the addiction specialists a chance to share their healing secrets and tools of recovery.
What happens when the body undergoes detox?
Because succumbing to addiction is a real fact in our world and with the aid of the pharmaceutical industries and vulnerabilities of personas, it’s no wonder that the body has to go through stages of detoxification after the willingness to quit altogether is acknowledged.
When a person ceases taking the drugs the body requires time to recover. However, there are withdrawal symptoms that can occur at any time when long-term opioid usage is stopped altogether or cut back. The following symptoms of detox include:
Anxiety
Agitation during daily activities
Muscle tension, aches, and pains
An increase in crying and emotional outbursts
Insomnia and difficulty falling asleep
Yawning and basic fatigue
Sweating
Inability to concentrate
Runny nose, similar to cold and flu symptoms
While the above noticeable signs of detox are prevalent, there are also symptoms during late-phase withdrawal worth noting, which include persistent goosebumps, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, dilated pupils, nausea, and in extreme cases, violent vomiting. These are not life-threatening signs, yet can cause severe discomfort if not addressed properly by an addiction expert or a physician.
Receiving a comprehensive medical history and background information of each person is vital at SOBA Recovery Center. It is of their utmost concern to listen, offer support, heal with proper tools and alternative therapies that bring about resounding results and successes for patients undergoing the decision to quit opioids.
The 4 benefits of total abandonment of opioid addiction
There are phases to treatment and subsequent recovery during addiction treatment. Group counseling sessions, cognitive and mental treatments, and support, specific detoxification modalities that create a peaceful transition are all highlighted at SOBA in San Antonio, Texas.
The biggest challenge of opioid treatment lies in the overall paradox of how to help those who are suffering from the addiction. Researchers are still flummoxed by what actually goes on in treatment centers and what connections there are with respect to the highest quality of treatment an addict needs to receive. SOBA is aware of the gold standard and abides by every protocol necessary to remedy and heal, no matter the length of stay at their idyllic center.
If the person willing to quit opioids understands the complications from addiction treatment and possible withdrawal symptoms, the wellness benefits are astounding once they pass over the hump of significant brain changes that occur during opioid usage.
Following are the 4 most beneficial rewards of abandoning opioid addiction:
Health – A significant improvement over time begins to appear, as the addict manages their symptoms by making informed choices that support their overall physical and emotional well-being.
Home – Securing stability in their lives by having a roof over their heads is progress and alleviates stress.
Purpose – Participating in society by involving oneself in community activities and daily communications and connections through financial independence and proper income elevate a reason to live.
Community – Maintaining active awareness, friendships, love, and social networks brings about the hope within the person undergoing recovery.
Recovery is a lifelong process of change through which the opioid user improves their health and well-being, living self-directed lives, and striving to reach their full potential. It doesn’t happen overnight, yet the possibilities are endless, something SOBA Recovery Center wholeheartedly believes in. They empower their patients and it shows.
Each dimension and phase of supported recovery is evident during addiction treatment, and the uniqueness of each individualized plan is that it shows just what normalcy looks like for the opioid user.
The key to success lies in feeling hopeful and having support
Having drug-free days is within reach for every person involved in the support and recovery efforts. Whether it be family members or best friends, a network of healing therapies is key to success and wellness. Active listening, jotting down moments of weakness in a diary, remaining busy during vulnerable moments, and steering clear of people who encourage drug usage are meaningful measures to remaining clean and drug-free.
Ask for support! Having consistent strategies outlined by a qualified counselor and physician are primary in receiving the proper support to a full recovery.
Making the decision to stop using drugs or alcohol is a huge step in the right direction. But it also comes with challenges. Maybe you’re wondering how to put your life back together, and where to go for addiction treatment. Maybe you’re worried about the possibility of relapse. Making healthy lifestyle adjustments and seeking support will go a long way toward helping you get and stay sober. Here are some tips to guide you in your recovery.
Take One Day at a Time
If you’re new to recovery or are discouraged because of a relapse, the idea of long-term sobriety can seem overwhelming. Take your new life one day at a time. Decide each day that for the next 24 hours, you’re going to commit to staying clean and sober.
Set Goals
Setting short-term and long-term goals can make it easier to give up addictive habits. Having something to work toward can give you a sense of meaning and purpose. When you’re struggling to stay on track, your goals can serve as a reminder of why you committed to recovery in the first place.
Structure Your Days
Establishing a schedule of meaningful activities can help you set and work toward your goals. Having regular activities to look forward to each day will also reduce boredom, a common relapse trigger. When you’re new to recovery, rehab-related activities will likely take up much of your time.
Once you’ve completed rehab, it’s especially vital to keep your days structured. Consider going back to school, volunteering in the community, or getting a job. Taking up a hobby can also be rewarding and help you keep your mind off drinking and drugs.
Adopt Healthy Habits
Using drugs and alcohol takes quite a toll on your body, and self-care tends to fall by the wayside. Adopting healthy habits in recovery can help you reverse the effects of long-term substance abuse.
Exercise. Physical activity is especially beneficial for people in recovery. Exercise releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones that can help you fend off cravings. Going to the gym or even taking a brisk walk in nature reduces stress, making relapse less likely and enhancing your overall sense of well-being.
Diet. Substance overuse makes it difficult for your body to absorb any nutrients it gets, so making healthy meal choices is especially important when you’re sober. Be sure to get plenty of protein and vitamins from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. When you feel better, it’s easier to maintain a positive outlook and stay away from drugs and alcohol.
Quit Smoking. If smoking is one of the habits you enjoyed along with drugs or alcohol, now is a good time to quit. By refraining from using harmful substances, you’ll be able to reap maximum benefits from your other healthy lifestyle choices.
Embrace Self-Care. Making all of these changes can be stressful, so it’s important to make self-care a priority. Be kind to yourself. Speak words of encouragement over yourself and reward yourself occasionally for coming as far as you have. Do your best to take responsibility for your past actions, but let go of the guilt and shame that can become stumbling blocks for many in recovery. Learn effective stress-management techniques so you can find healthy ways to decompress.
Avoid Triggers. If you spend time with the friends you were surrounded by in your addiction or frequent the same stomping grounds you did in the old days, you’re not likely to remain sober for long. Find new friends who are committed to sobriety, and avoid people and places that may serve as triggers.
Learn All You Can About Addiction and Relapse
Too often, people in recovery are just told to stay away from drugs and alcohol and go to meetings. While this may be enough for some, most people need more in the way of addiction treatment. Finding resources to help you commit to sobriety and learning more about addiction and possible triggers can help you discover what works best for you when it comes to staying clean. After all, recovery looks a little different for each person.
While you shouldn’t live in constant fear of relapse, be aware of the warning signs so you can get help before you go back to old habits. Withdrawing from the recovery community and loved ones and feeling less committed to sobriety are indicators that you’re vulnerable to relapse.
Seek Support
Healthy relationships are key to helping you stay on track. Finding support groups and friends and family members who will cheer you on are critical as you build your new life.
Recovery is a lifelong journey. Congratulations on taking the first steps. At SOBA Recovery Center, we provide intensive addiction treatment. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.
One of the biggest challenges that people are going to face on this journey is figuring out how to have fun. Let’s face it: drugs and alcohol are often used at parties to facilitate fun. The good news is that there are plenty of other ways to have fun in sobriety.
