Category: treatment

Addiction treatment is often thought of as either inpatient treatment that lasts for months or outpatient treatment that is infrequent and ineffective. But there is a middle ground. Intensive outpatient rehab meets multiple times a week, provides supportive medication-assisted therapy, and helps clients build a local community of like-minded individuals.

At Relevance Recovery, our Freehold, New Jersey, rehab provides treatment for substance abuse and mental illness. We have specific programs for teens and adolescents, are LGBTQ-friendly, and provide specific addiction treatment for first responders in New Jersey. Our philosophy is designed around knowing and fully understanding the needs of the individual in treatment. 

What is Intensive Outpatient Treatment?

Intensive outpatient treatment, commonly known as IOP, is an intermediary level between inpatient rehabilitation and generalized outpatient treatment. And IOP clients are able to live at home or in a sober living house where they travel to and from treatment frequently during the week. Intensive outpatient programs meet a minimum of nine hours a week over three days but can be as intensive as eight hours of treatment a day, seven days a week. Typical IOP falls somewhere in the mid-range.

The core services of intensive outpatient programs include group counseling and therapy, individual counseling, psychoeducational programming, pharmacotherapy, and medication management. Along with 24-hour crisis coverage and community-based support groups, individuals in IOP work on relapse prevention, enhancing self-efficacy for handling risky situations, developing educational and vocational skills, and maintaining balance in life.

A study completed on the effectiveness of the service indicates that intensive outpatient care is as effective as inpatient treatment in most cases.

What are the Benefits of Intensive Outpatient Treatment?

There are many benefits to an intensive outpatient program that will help you achieve sobriety and a healthy lifestyle. Whether you are a recovering addict or in the early stages of your recovery, the advantages of IOP may help you meet your needs.

1. Get a support system: Being in a group setting means you’ll be surrounded by peers who are going through similar things and have similar challenges. You’ll be able to learn from one another’s experiences and hone different skills in an environment that’s not judgmental.
2. You get to live at home: One of the most popular benefits of IOP is the ability to receive intensive care but still be able to lead a somewhat normal life. Being able to go home at night can be appealing for those who are nervous or uncomfortable with inpatient programs or for those who are able to care for themselves and be safe in their own homes.
3. Learn useful skills: Each session of an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) covers different challenges you may face and provides you with the tools you need to cope with challenging situations. Because an IOP session lasts longer than an individual session, you’ll have more time to explore the issues you’re facing.
4. An Intensive Outpatient Program Provides Structure: Another advantage of an Intensive outpatient program is that you commit to a schedule and routine.
5. Provide support: In addition to the support you will receive in the IOP sessions, you will receive additional support after your program is completed. This support can be in the form of a worksheet, a planner, and possibly even an online tool.

All of these advantages allow people with substance use disorders or mental health issues to heal on their own terms and in their own timeframe.

How to Find an Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program in New Jersey

If you’re interested in finding an intensive outpatient treatment program in New Jersey, look no further than Relevance Recovery. Our comprehensive  Monmouth County treatment programs is designed to provide our clients with precisely what they need to advance along the path of recovery. With multiple pathways to recovery, our clients have access to treatment at every level. Inpatient, intensive outpatient, and outpatient treatment, along with detoxification and aftercare programming, allow individuals to become clients at any stage of the recovery process.

Our intensive outpatient program is three hours a day, three or five days a week. With a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, we work to help transform your thoughts and reactions. After completing your individualized treatment program, our facility offers outpatient treatment and aftercare programming.

Relevance Recovery offers family group therapy, teen and adolescent programming, and interventions for individuals who are trying to help their loved ones. In addition, we treat clients with substance abuse disorders, mental illnesses, and those with a dual diagnosis in a non-judgemental and supportive manner. Asking for help can be challenging, and we support our clients with dignity through this process. 
Contact the admissions team today to see the options that meet your needs.

Medication-assisted treatment programs are designed to support individuals through detoxification and treatment and are widely available across the United States, including the state of New Jersey. A medication-assisted treatment program in New Jersey provide individuals with a specific medication that mimics the drug abused to reduce detoxification symptoms while undergoing treatment. By taking a medication prescribed by a doctor, individuals can be weaned off the medicine safely, promoting both physical and mental health.

At Relevance Recovery, our medical professionals believe that substance abuse treatment should address a client’s mental, physical, and emotional health. To that end, our clinicians offer medication-assisted treatment to support clients through detoxification and treatment to reduce withdrawal symptoms and the risk of relapse. 

To find out more, speak with an admissions team member today.

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, is a medical intervention to promote healthy and sustainable abstinence from mind-altering drugs and assist clients in achieving their sobriety goals. 

Medication-assisted treatments are FDA approved to assist individuals during recovery and are available to help with addiction to multiple types of drugs. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, MAT is a valid course of treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and has been proven clinically effective in reducing the need for inpatient detoxification.

The most common medication-assisted treatment programs are available for opioids and alcohol addiction. With over 2 million people struggling with opioid abuse and the availability of alcohol, individuals struggling with addiction to these two common addictions now have options. In addition, individuals struggling with other types of addiction can look into new treatments, but none are available widely on the market yet. 

Medication-assisted treatment is federally required to be covered by your insurance through the same Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act that requires insurance companies to cover mental health and substance abuse treatment. Therefore, it is important to check with your insurance company to see how your specific plan covers addiction treatment and the percentage at which it is covered. 

Medically assisted treatment programs are widely available across the country due to a strong FDA push to recognize the benefits of treatment through other medications like buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone in combination with behavioral counseling and psychosocial therapy. Medically assisted treatment is always recommended to be paired with mental health treatment to ensure that the root cause of addiction is addressed. Using the medication stops the adverse side effects of use, but mental health care treats the addiction.

What are the Benefits of Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs?

Medication-assisted treatment programs benefit individuals looking to jump-start the recovery process. The most noted benefit is a significant reduction in the need for inpatient rehabilitation for individuals using medication to support detoxification. These medications act similarly to opioids without providing a mind-altering state. Through this process, a medical professional can prescribe a recommended dose and ween an individual off the drug safely to reduce the likelihood of intense withdrawal and detox symptoms. 

According to SAMSHA, participating in medication-assisted treatment also has several other noticeable benefits. Through this process, observable positive outcomes include:

• Improve patient survival
• Increase retention in treatment
• Decrease illicit opiate use and other criminal activity among people with substance use disorders
• Increase patients’ ability to gain and maintain employment

These benefits provide individuals a more significant opportunity for success throughout the recovery process. In addition, individuals who participate in medication-assisted treatment programs also reduce the risk of relapse.

Is There a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program in New Jersey?

Relevance Recovery is a Freehold, New Jersey, rehab center providing comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment options in New Jersey. We offer medication-assisted treatment programs for our participants. We believe that MAT is a valid part of our holistic treatment program. Our clients can learn the skills and processes necessary to alter their lifestyle to one that promotes sobriety and addresses mental health needs through medication, behavioral, and social therapies. 

We help people find recovery through multiple treatment pathways. Our facility offers treatment through every level of intensity. Our clients can access detoxification, inpatient, partial hospitalization, outpatient, and aftercare treatment programs. We also support family members and loved ones with family therapy, interventions, and specialized treatment programs for teens and adolescents. 

We believe in creating relevant recovery options for all individuals at Relevance Recovery. Our LGBTQ+ rehab program in New Jersey addresses the needs of first responders and has many nutritional options for individuals with specific dietary needs, like maintaining a Kosher or vegan diet through recovery.

Learn more today by speaking with an admissions team member to see how our programs can provide you with relevant recovery opportunities.

When depression, anxiety, worry, fear, or stress have a detrimental impact on your daily functioning, you may look to dull your symptoms with alcohol. Alcohol can bring about a temporary sense of calm and relaxation that is a welcome relief from your mental health symptoms. Unfortunately, using alcohol to manage symptoms associated with mental illness often leads to additional problems, including the physical and psychological impacts of an alcohol use disorder or alcohol addiction.

How Does Alcohol Impact the Brain?

Your brain is skilled at adaptation. It can physically alter its structure to adapt itself to your environment. This allows you to perform better and more efficiently at whatever you are doing. If you are participating in healthy hobbies or activities, this is beneficial to your performance and function. However, if you consistently drink, alcohol impacts the brain and may begin to alter its form and function to help you function better with alcohol in your system.

When this happens, the brain changes how nerve cells communicate. It changes how the reward centers in the brain operate, resulting in increased cravings for alcohol and the feeling that one “cannot function” without alcohol in their system. Alcohol use also makes it more difficult for the brain areas that control speech, memory, balance, and judgment to perform their jobs. Unfortunately, some of these changes are irreversible.

Depending on the severity and duration of your addiction, once an alcoholic stops drinking, some of the alterations to the brain and its function may remain a problem throughout their lives. In some instances, alcohol and dependency can lead to new or worsening mental health symptoms or co-occurring disorders (a mental illness and simultaneous alcohol addiction) that require specialized treatment to overcome safely.

How Does Alcohol Affect Mental Health?

Alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction cause physical and functional changes in the brain. Short-term effects of alcohol use on the brain (and brain functions) include blackouts, memory problems, poor judgment, and mood changes. Chronic, untreated alcohol addiction often leads to mental health effects that are more severe and sometimes permanent. These may include mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and others.

When you struggle with both a mental health condition and an alcohol use disorder (alcohol addiction or alcoholism), it is called a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis. Some statistics suggest up to half of those who struggle with a mental illness also experience symptoms related to a substance use disorder.

Dual diagnosis conditions frequently occur because of self-medication. Many people turn to alcohol to cope with symptoms of a mental health condition. Using alcohol to reduce or manage the severity of symptoms is not without potential dangers. In some instances, alcohol use will help alleviate symptoms for a short time; however, once the alcohol wears off, undesirable symptoms return.

Sometimes when the fear, sadness, or stress returns, it does so in a more severe and more intense way leading you to drink more often and more frequently to keep these feelings at bay. Using alcohol to self-medicate is a common but ineffective solution that often causes worsening symptoms. For some, using alcohol to manage mental health symptoms may also cause new symptoms to appear. This is especially true when you try to reduce or stop drinking and experience withdrawal.

Alcohol’s Short-Term Effects on Mood and Mental Health

When you drink, alcohol enters your bloodstream and goes straight to your brain. Within minutes, you’ll feel the effects as alcohol impacts your mood and mental state. 

At first, alcohol acts as a stimulant, elevating your mood and decreasing anxiety. This high feeling makes you want to keep drinking. But in reality, alcohol is a depressant that slows down your central nervous system.

As you continue drinking, alcohol’s depressant effects take over. Your mood and cognition become impaired. You may feel overly emotional, irritable, or sad. Your judgment and decision-making skills decline. This can lead to risky behavior and poor choices that negatively impact your mental health and relationships.

The next day, the effects of a hangover can worsen symptoms of depression or anxiety. Feelings of guilt or shame may surface. This vicious cycle repeats each time you drink heavily, creating a rollercoaster effect on your mental and emotional well-being.

While alcohol may temporarily reduce stress or make you feel good, its negative repercussions far outweigh any benefits. Relying on alcohol to cope with or self-medicate mental health issues is not a viable long-term solution and will only make problems worse. The best approach is to limit alcohol, focus on healthy coping strategies, and get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Your mental health and happiness depend on it.

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse on Mental Wellbeing

Long-term alcohol abuse takes a major toll on your mental health and wellbeing. After years of heavy drinking, irreversible changes happen in your brain that intensify symptoms of depression and anxiety and make coping with stressful life events much harder.

Depression

Chronic alcohol use disrupts the neurotransmitters in your brain that regulate mood and stress, often leading to depression. This can trap you in a vicious cycle where you drink to relieve symptoms of depression, but the alcohol only makes your depression worse over time. Breaking this cycle is challenging but critical for improving your mental health.

Anxiety and Stress

Excessive alcohol consumption also damages the parts of your brain involved in managing anxiety, fear, and stress. This makes you increasingly prone to feelings of worry, panic, and being overwhelmed. Tasks that used to seem manageable now feel impossible to cope with without drinking. Learning healthier ways to manage anxiety and find inner calm becomes vital.

Impaired Coping Skills

Prolonged alcohol abuse weakens your ability to deal with difficult life events in a constructive way. Instead of facing problems head-on, you turn to the bottle for escape and solace. This avoidance and numbing effect prevents you from developing effective coping strategies to handle stressful situations. Regaining these life skills through counseling and support groups is essential for sustained recovery and wellness.

The negative impacts of long-term alcohol use on your mental health and coping abilities are extensive but often reversible. However, the longer and more heavily you drink, the more work it will take to repair the damage. Sobriety and professional support offer the hope of recovery and the opportunity to build resilience, find healthier ways of coping, and reclaim your mental well-being.

How to Find Mental Health and Alcohol Treatment Services

When you struggle with alcohol addiction and mental health symptoms, the best way to achieve and maintain lasting sobriety is to choose a New Jersey treatment program like Relevance Recovery, where dual diagnosis treatment is available. In a New Jersey dual diagnosis rehab program, your treatment team will work with you to design a plan that addresses all areas of your physical and psychological health.

As part of a comprehensive, evidence-based therapy program, you will learn how to identify, examine and then change the thoughts and behaviors that lead to harmful, such as using alcohol to self-medicate. Your treatment team at Relevance Recovery will also help you learn more about triggers and how to manage triggering situations or people without using alcohol. Learning and practicing new, healthy, and safer coping tools is a vital step on your journey to lasting recovery.

Contact us today for more information about our programs if you would like to learn more about dual diagnosis treatment and how our experienced, compassionate team at Relevance Recovery can help you find freedom from alcohol and mental health symptoms.

Statistics from multiple studies show that up to half of those who seek help to overcome a mental health or substance use disorder have a dual diagnosis. Depending on the person, they may understand their symptoms come from two causes; however, this is not the case for all. Although little scientific evidence supports the idea that one disorder causes the other, it is not uncommon for ongoing mental health struggles to lead to poor coping choices, which can inevitably cause addiction.

What Does Dual Diagnosis Mean?

Until recently, a misguided belief existed among medical and mental health treatment professionals alike that dual diagnosis conditions should be treated as part of separate treatment programs. Unfortunately, this led to millions of people who needed comprehensive treatment to address two highly interconnected illnesses receiving less than optimal treatment.

Fortunately, treatment professionals now understand the connection between addiction and mental health. Today, treatment centers like Relevance Recovery specialize in dual diagnosis treatment and are here to guide you through each step of your treatment journey.

When someone has a dual diagnosis, they struggle with symptoms connected to a mental health condition and a substance use disorder. Because dual diagnosis conditions share many overlapping symptoms, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to separate the symptoms into two distinct conditions. Therefore, it is crucial for treatment plans to address your mental health and substance use needs.

What are Common Dual Diagnosis Disorders?

Any combination of mental health and substance use disorders is a dual diagnosis; therefore, multiple possible combinations exist. You may also hear this referred to as a co-occurring disorder in many treatment settings. Although the meanings behind the two terms vary ever so slightly, they are frequently used interchangeably to describe a simultaneously occurring mental health and substance use disorder.

• Individuals (regardless of age) diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are at a statistically higher risk of developing dual diagnosis conditions. Several studies indicate up to 50% of adults diagnosed with ADHD also have a substance use disorder.
• Eating disorders and substance use disorders also frequently co-occur. Recent statistics from the National Center for addiction and substance use suggest up to half of those diagnosed with an eating disorder also abuse drugs.
• Substance use disorders are believed to occur in up to 17% of patients diagnosed with clinical depression or major depressive disorder.
• Statistics surrounding mood disorders such as bipolar disorder indicate that 30% of patients with a mood disorder have a substance use disorder.
• The rated cooccurrence for alcohol or drug use disorders for patients with post-traumatic stress disorder is believed to be as high as 50%. This statistic may be even higher in individuals with specific trauma histories or job functions that expose them to ongoing trauma.
• As many as one-quarter of patients who seek help to overcome symptoms of a personality disorder such as borderline personality disorder also have at least one addiction.

What is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

When you struggle with a dual diagnosis disorder, the root causes of your symptoms are highly intertwined. Therefore, seeking help at a dual diagnosis treatment center means you will receive treatment in an environment where medical and mental health professionals understand the unique nature of addressing both conditions simultaneously. A dual diagnosis program ensures your level of care, and the treatment models applied to your treatment programs address all areas of your physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Therapy in a dual diagnosis program is designed to identify and address the mental health conditions that may lie at the root of substance use disorders. Additionally, therapy strives to uncover how ongoing substance use may contribute to worsening mental health symptoms. A key benefit to dual diagnosis treatment is that it helps you learn more about how addiction and mental health are connected.

It will also teach you safe and effective coping tools you could use in the future to avoid using substances to medicate your mental health symptoms. As part of therapy, you will learn more about your triggers and how they impact your behaviors and encourage you to engage in potentially harmful coping strategies. As part of comprehensive treatment, your mental health and medical providers will work with you to develop a plan to safely manage your triggers so you can avoid relapse after treatment is complete.

How to Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment Programs Near Me

The most effective treatment for dual diagnosis is a program where the staff works directly with you to develop a treatment program unique to your needs and goals. Because everyone experiences the journey to recovery differently, it is crucial to design recovery plans around the individual, not their diagnosis. 
At Relevance Recovery, our admissions and therapeutic staff will work with you to ensure you receive the comprehensive, evidence-based care you need to put dual diagnosis challenges in the past and move forward free from addiction and mental health symptoms. If you would like to learn more about our addiction treatment programs in New Jersey, contact us today for more information or schedule a tour of our facility.

When you struggle with long-term drug or alcohol addiction, it leads to changes throughout your body. Many of these effects can evolve into lifelong physical and psychological struggles for those who do not seek detox and treatment at a professional rehab like Relevance Recovery. The first step towards recovery is acknowledging a harmful relationship with substances. While this may be a difficult step, one cannot fully immerse oneself in the healing process without understanding how ongoing substance abuse can lead to harmful effects on their emotional, physical, and spiritual health. By knowing the difference between outpatient and inpatient detox programs, you can find the best treatment for you.

The early days of your sobriety journey may begin with detox. The intensity and duration of detox or detoxification vary from person to person and based on the substances or substances used. For some, quitting may lead to few, if any, withdrawal symptoms. But for others, especially those withdrawing from certain drugs and alcohol, withdrawal can be complex and potentially dangerous. No matter what substances or substances you use, choosing to detox at a professional detox center can increase your chances of safely and successfully getting sober.

What is Detox?

Detox is the process of your body cleansing itself of any substances that remain in your system since your last dose or drink. Your body starts to detox when you stop using drugs or alcohol. As the minutes and hours since your last drink or dose pass, your body starts to learn how to function without substances present. When you are actively addicted, the way your brain and vital body systems operate changes to accommodate (and require) drugs or alcohol. In time, if you do not use or drink, you will experience cravings and other withdrawal symptoms that “tell you” you need to drink or use again. This circle of cravings and use leads to substance dependency to complete day-to-day tasks successfully.

Why is Detox Important in Recovery?

Although often unpleasant, detoxing is essential as it eliminates the effects that drugs or alcohol have on you, physically and psychologically. Without detox, you are at an increased risk for relapse when cravings or other unpleasant withdrawal symptoms occur. Detox is essential to your recovery because the process forces your body to learn how to function “normally” again. Without detox, it is impossible to actively engage in addiction therapy because withdrawal symptoms like cravings and other physical difficulties inhibit your ability to focus on getting well. Therapy is an essential addiction treatment tool. During therapy sessions, you will learn and practice the coping skills you will need to manage relapse triggers after completing treatment.

What is the Difference Between Outpatient and Inpatient Detox Programs?

Many people do not realize there are different types of detox programs. At an outpatient detox program, you can seek help to detox from substances during the day while remaining home with family and loved ones at night. Before choosing outpatient detox, it is important to consider your needs as outpatient treatment might not be the best option for everyone. Outpatient detox works best for those with a stable, substance-free living arrangement as outpatient detox may lead to a higher potential for encountering relapse triggers. Also, outpatient detox is not suggested for someone with an addiction to opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines, as the risk for severe and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms is much higher with these substances.

Inpatient detox programs occur at an addiction treatment facility. These programs require you to stay at the facility throughout detox and addiction treatment. As noted above, certain circumstances may suggest inpatient detox is a more effective and potentially safer detox option. It is also vital to discuss your treatment needs with your primary care provider or medical professional as they will help determine if outpatient or inpatient detox is appropriate.

How to Find Comprehensive Detox Near Me

If you struggle with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, seeking help to safely detox before beginning a comprehensive addiction treatment is essential to achieving lasting sobriety. Because there are different types of detox programs and several treatment options, it is important to find the program that best suits your needs and goals as you focus on healing from the effects of addiction. Our skilled and compassionate team at Relevance Recovery is here to help you choose the best path for you. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about our detox center in Freehold, New Jersey.

People frequently associate PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder with specific groups of people. Soldiers serving in times of war, police officers, first responders, and others who face difficult and potentially deadly situations as part of their employment requirements are generally those people who come to mind when we think of the signs of PTSD. But PTSD can happen to anyone, and there are many examples of trauma that may lead to PTSD development. During any given year, approximately 15 million American adults experience PTSD.

What is PTSD?

PTSD has long been associated with soldiers and military veterans, so much so that it was once referred to as “shell shock.” But PTSD can happen to anyone, at any age. Some statistics suggest one out of every eleven people will be diagnosed with PTSD in their lifetime. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that develops in those who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. While trauma often leads to fear and other symptoms in most cases, someone with PTSD will experience symptoms related to the event long after the trauma has resolved. Without treatment at a mental health program specializing in PTSD, the impacts of trauma can cause long-lasting harm.

Common signs and symptoms of PTSD

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of PTSD is essential for early intervention and support. While the specific symptoms can vary from person to person, several common indicators may suggest the presence of PTSD. It’s important to note that not everyone with PTSD will experience the same symptoms, and some individuals may exhibit additional signs that are not listed here. However, being aware of these common signs can help us identify and support those who may be struggling with PTSD.

1. Re-experiencing symptoms: People with PTSD often relive the traumatic event through distressing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks. These intrusive thoughts can be triggered by various stimuli, such as sights, sounds, or smells associated with the trauma. Individuals experiencing re-experiencing symptoms may feel as if they are back in the traumatic situation, causing significant distress and emotional upheaval.

2. Avoidance and numbing: Individuals with PTSD may actively avoid reminders of the traumatic event, including places, activities, or people associated with the trauma. This avoidance behavior serves as a coping mechanism to protect themselves from distressing memories or emotions. Numbing of emotions and disinterest in previously enjoyed activities are also common symptoms of PTSD.

3. Hyperarousal and hypervigilance: People with PTSD often experience persistent feelings of being on edge or constantly on guard. They may have difficulty sleeping, become easily startled, or have a heightened startle response. Hypervigilance, or an increased awareness of potential threats, can make it challenging for individuals with PTSD to relax or feel safe in their surroundings.

Recognizing these common signs of PTSD is crucial for understanding and supporting individuals who may be silently struggling with this condition. By providing a safe and empathetic environment, we can help facilitate their healing journey and improve their overall well-being.

The impact of PTSD on mental health

PTSD not only affects an individual’s mental health but also has a significant impact on their overall well-being. The symptoms of PTSD can interfere with daily life, relationships, and work or academic performance. The emotional toll of living with PTSD can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life.

Individuals with PTSD may also be at an increased risk of developing other mental health conditions, such as substance abuse disorders or mood disorders. The co-occurrence of these conditions can further complicate the recovery process and require comprehensive treatment approaches.

Understanding the profound impact of PTSD on mental health emphasizes the importance of early intervention and appropriate support. By seeking professional help and implementing effective coping strategies, individuals with PTSD can begin to reclaim their lives and achieve a sense of well-being.

What can cause PTSD?

PTSD is rooted in trauma. However, what trauma looks like is different from person to person. It is not necessary to directly experience or witness trauma to develop PTSD. Some people, especially youth and teens, develop post-traumatic stress disorder after learning about a traumatic event that happened to a friend or loved one. Several examples of events or situations that may cause trauma, such as severe injury or illness, terrorism, assault, abuse, natural disasters, death of a friend or loved one, witnessing violence, and engaging in military combat.

It is important to note that not everyone who experiences or witnesses trauma will develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Some data suggests one in three people who experience severe trauma will develop PTSD, but statistics vary. There are certain individual factors that may increase one’s risk for developing PTSD, including further trauma after the event, limited (or no) support from loved ones after the event, and a history of other mental health conditions such as depression or panic disorders.

Coping strategies for individuals with PTSD

In addition to professional help, individuals with PTSD can benefit from implementing coping strategies to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. While not every coping strategy works for everyone, exploring different techniques can help individuals find what works best for them. Here are some coping strategies that may be helpful:

1. Self-care routine: Establishing a self-care routine that includes activities such as exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

2. Support groups: Joining a support group for individuals with PTSD can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences and learning from others who have gone through similar challenges can be incredibly empowering.

3. Mindfulness and meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help individuals reduce anxiety, increase self-awareness, and improve their ability to manage distressing thoughts or emotions.

4. Creative outlets: Engaging in creative activities such as writing, painting, or playing a musical instrument can serve as a form of self-expression and provide a healthy outlet for emotions.

5. Establishing a support system: Building a strong support system of trusted friends, family, or support groups can provide individuals with a network of people who understand their experiences and can offer support when needed.

These coping strategies, combined with professional help, can empower individuals with PTSD to regain control over their lives and enhance their overall well-being.

How to Treat PTSD

While the symptoms and severity of PTSD symptoms vary from person to person, the most effective treatment, the first step in treating PTSD, is choosing a treatment program like Relevance Recovery, where providers understand the unique and wide-ranging recovery challenges associated with PTSD.

Several treatment models are used to help manage and overcome PTSD, including talk therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. Three psychotherapy or talk therapy interventions are widely used in PTSD treatment; cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Because each treatment addresses PTSD symptoms differently, it is important to work closely with your mental health provider to choose the treatment that is best for you. In some situations, antianxiety medications might be used to help reduce the intensity of certain symptoms during treatment.

If you or a loved one struggles with PTSD, seeking help to understand your symptoms can help. Without treatment, PTSD can have a significant impact on your physical and emotional health as well as your personal and social relationships. Everyone seeking help with PTSD has unique needs, and what works for one person, may not work for everyone. Let the team at Relevance Recovery help you begin your journey towards overcoming PTSD. Contact us today to learn more.

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. However, there are often significant misconceptions related to mental health. Here are five common mental health misconceptions.

You are either mentally ill or mentally healthy

Similarly to physical health, it is inaccurate to suggest that someone is 100% mentally healthy. Many different factors can affect someone’s mental health, and these can vary significantly in the severity of the impact these have on a person’s overall state of mental health. It is not a simple case of being either mentally ill or mentally healthy; we all have good and bad days.

Men don’t suffer mental illness

A common misconception is that men are less prone to suffering from mental health issues than women because they are generally physically stronger. In contrast to this assumption, male suicide rates are about three times higher than those of females. This is often intensified by the fact that many men do not like to talk to someone when they are suffering from mental health issues.

Mental illness is rare

Many people suffer from mental illness and often feel like they are alone; however, the reality is that this couldn’t be further from the truth. One in four people will experience a mental health problem in any given year, so there is no need to feel isolated if you are going through this.

Mental illness often leads to violence

The majority of people suffering with mental illness are no more likely to be violent than any other member of the public. In fact, those facing these issues are ten times more likely to have been a victim of violence.

Mental health problems are a sign of weakness

Perhaps the biggest misconception for mental health is that those suffering with mental illness must be weak. Many people feel that they cannot express their concerns because of this stigma. Fortunately, this way of thinking has started to change over the past 20 years, but there is still a long way to go.

First responders are professionals who generally put themselves at risk on the front lines of emergencies or disasters. First responders include, but are not limited, to police officers, firefighters, military personnel, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Individuals who take on these roles are exposed to physical and mental exhaustion; the intensive nature of these jobs, combined with the stigma and barriers to care, results in the deterrence of seeking assistance to address mental health difficulties. Failure to seek help, or delaying seeking help, slows the recovery time and can lead to severe events, such as suicide or substance abuse.

Barriers

The stigma surrounding therapy is the most frequently identified barrier to seeking mental health care. The stigma around mental health treatment leads to avoidance of seeking help and negatively impacts treatment outcomes. Additional barriers to mental health issues include not knowing where to seek help and having limited resources to find help when needed. Limited resources or having no transportation may serve as a barrier, as necessary services may not be conveniently located. Denial of a need for services or negative past experiences also serves as barriers.

Combating Stigma and Barriers

In order to increase the usage of mental health services, the barriers need to be addressed. Some methods to promote healthier outcomes could include:

• Psychiatric assessment could be offered in general health care settings instead of district mental health sites to encourage less local knowledge of a person receiving treatment. 
• Assessments could be implemented as a care routine rather than based on symptoms. 
• Utilize telehealth platforms to provide mental health services as it allows for a discrete means to attain required services and reduces the sense of judgment. 

Addressing stigma head-on and encouraging help-seeking early will reduce the escalation of serious stress claims.

What Does it Mean to Relapse?

Many people consider “relapse” as an event. However, it is important to understand that relapse itself is not a singular event or occurrence. Several studies indicate that relapse is actually a process. It is a process that occurs in several stages, including emotional relapse, mental relapse, and physical relapse. Each step is uniquely characterized by different signals or signs often visible to friends or family of someone struggling with addiction. Understanding these signs and symptoms can help ensure you or a loved one gets the help they need before relapse occurs.

It is vital to point out that relapse is a normal part of addiction recovery. When someone experiences a relapse, it does not mean that they have failed or that treatment has failed. It also does not indicate a failed commitment to sobriety or long-term recovery from drug or alcohol abuse. In most cases, experiencing relapse means that you might need a little more help and support to safely and effectively manage relapse triggers outside of the aftercare or addiction treatment environment.

Why Do People Relapse?

Addiction is often called a chronic relapsing illness. This means, like many other chronic disease processes, symptoms can return even after completing treatment or after remaining sober for some time. Some statistics suggest that up to 60% of people who have completed treatment will experience a relapse at least once. So what causes relapse? In most cases, relapse occurs when you are exposed to triggers. Triggers can be things, emotions, people, or places that “trigger” memories of drinking or using drugs. In some cases, these triggers can cause overwhelming and intense cravings or urges to use. In addition to triggers, there are a few other reasons why relapse occurs. These can include:

• Mental health struggles: It is not uncommon for people who struggle with mental health concerns to use drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate. This situation is referred to as a dual diagnosis. Unfortunately, far too many who struggle with a dual diagnosis do not receive adequate treatment to address the needs or symptoms of both conditions as part of the same treatment program. This means it is possible to leave addiction treatment without addressing your mental health needs adequately. In time, mental health symptoms will return, followed by urges to use drugs or alcohol to dull the symptoms shortly after.
  
  
• Loss of Motivation: The first days of recovery can be complex and challenging. Keeping busy is vital to ongoing sobriety success for people new to recovery. During treatment and aftercare, you are busy and surrounded by peers who share common goals. Upon leaving treatment, this is not always the case. Many newly recovered addicts struggle with boredom and isolation as they no longer “hang out” with the same friends or frequent the same places. Although this is an effective way to avoid trigger exposure, it can lead to other challenges. In time loneliness, boredom, and reduced motivation can cause relapse.
  
  
• Poor coping skills: Relapse triggers and stressful situations are an inevitable part of day-to-day life for newly sober people. Although it is unlikely you will experience triggers every day, they will occur, and you must have the tools and skills necessary to manage them in safe and effective ways. When you do not know how to manage or cope with relapse triggers, you are at a more significant risk of relapsing. During treatment, you will learn and practice vital relapse prevention tools. Additionally, participating in an active care program or relapse prevention planning can help you further reinforce these skills. It is vital to take the time you need to solidify your coping skills to ensure you have access to the tools you need to manage challenges to your sobriety adequately.

Statistics on relapse rates and the need for prevention programs

Relapse is a common occurrence in addiction recovery, and the statistics highlight the need for relapse prevention programs. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the relapse rates for addiction are similar to those of other chronic diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes.

Research suggests that approximately 40-60% of individuals in recovery experience a relapse at some point. These numbers can be disheartening, but it’s important to remember that relapse is not a sign of failure. It is often a part of the recovery process, and relapse prevention programs can help individuals bounce back and continue their journey toward lasting sobriety.

Relapse prevention programs aim to reduce the risk of relapse and help individuals develop the skills and strategies needed to maintain their recovery. By addressing the underlying causes of addiction and providing ongoing support, these programs significantly improve the chances of long-term success.

The Importance of Relapse Prevention Programs

The best way to avoid relapse is to ensure you work with your treatment providers on a relapse-prevention program. An individually designed relapse prevention program will help you access the tools you need to manage triggers and stressors. It is important to note that some of the most common causes of relapse include typical daily stressors, increased conflict, financial struggles, work-related problems, and emotional difficulties. Because many of these are unavoidable parts of daily life, a well-planned relapse prevention program can help you identify the emotions and situations that could be triggering while providing healthy and constructive ways to manage them. Coping with day-to-day life after treatment is often a difficult road for many who are newly sober. Inevitably, there will be setbacks and difficulties along the way. It is challenging to start over and meet the challenges and obligations of life without the assistance of drugs or alcohol. Let Relevance Recovery help you start your journey. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment and relapse prevention programs.

Components of a relapse prevention program

Relapse prevention programs typically consist of various components that work together to support individuals in their recovery journey. These components may vary depending on the specific program, but they generally include counseling, support groups, skills development, and ongoing monitoring.

• Counseling is a fundamental aspect of relapse prevention programs. Individual counseling sessions allow individuals to explore the underlying causes of their addiction, address any unresolved issues, and develop strategies for managing triggers and cravings. Group counseling sessions provide a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others, and build a sense of community.
• Support groups, such as 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), play a crucial role in relapse prevention. These groups offer a safe space for individuals to connect with others who have similar experiences and provide ongoing support and accountability. Attending regular support group meetings can help individuals stay focused on their recovery goals and find inspiration from others who have successfully maintained their sobriety.
• Skills development is another essential component of relapse prevention programs. These programs often include workshops or educational sessions that teach individuals practical skills for managing cravings, stress, and other triggers. These skills may include relaxation techniques, communication strategies, and problem-solving skills, among others.
• Ongoing monitoring is a critical aspect of relapse prevention programs. Regular check-ins, drug tests, and accountability measures help individuals stay on track and provide opportunities for early intervention if any signs of relapse occur. This monitoring ensures that individuals receive the necessary support and intervention when needed, further reducing the risk of relapse.

Developing an individualized relapse prevention plan

Every individual’s journey to recovery is unique, which is why relapse prevention programs focus on developing individualized plans. An individualized relapse prevention plan takes into account the specific challenges and triggers a person may face and tailors the strategies and support accordingly.

The first step in developing an individualized plan is to assess the individual’s needs and goals. This may involve discussions with a counselor or addiction specialist, as well as self-reflection on personal strengths and areas that require more attention.

Once the needs and goals are identified, the next step is to create a comprehensive plan that includes specific strategies and actions. This plan may include coping mechanisms for managing triggers, a support network of family and friends, regular counseling or therapy sessions, and participation in support groups.

It’s important to regularly review and update the relapse prevention plan as needed. Over time, triggers and challenges may change, and individuals may require different strategies or support. By regularly evaluating the plan, individuals can ensure that it remains effective and relevant to their current circumstances.

Techniques and strategies for relapse prevention

Relapse prevention programs utilize various techniques and strategies to help individuals maintain their sobriety. These techniques are designed to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction and provide individuals with practical tools for managing cravings, stress, and other triggers.

One commonly used technique is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and developing healthier ways of thinking and responding to triggers. This therapy helps individuals develop effective coping mechanisms and build resilience in the face of cravings or challenging situations.

Another effective strategy is the development of a relapse prevention toolbox. This toolbox consists of a collection of coping skills and strategies that individuals can use when faced with triggers or cravings. These may include relaxation techniques, journaling, exercise, or engaging in hobbies and activities that provide a sense of fulfillment and distraction from cravings.

Mindfulness and meditation practices are also beneficial in relapse prevention. These practices help individuals stay present in the moment, manage stress, and develop a greater awareness of their thoughts and emotions. By practicing mindfulness, individuals can better recognize triggers and make conscious choices that support their recovery.

Finding and choosing the right relapse prevention program

When someone is a trauma victim or witness something traumatizing, it can lead to PTSD. Unfortunately, there are many ways to experience trauma, some far more common than others in today’s world. The symptoms of PTSD are overwhelming and complex symptoms that stem directly from trauma. Although many people link PTSD to a specific profession (soldiers, emergency service workers, police officers), trauma is not unique to one particular demographic or profession. Trauma and the events that may lead to PTSD can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, or occupation.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a complex mental health condition resulting from trauma. The trauma can occur under many circumstances. It may stem from childhood traumas such as abuse, loss of a parent, or divorce for some individuals. For others, it might be related to witnessing or experiencing natural disasters, violence, or traumatic events as part of one’s day-to-day employment. It is important to note that one does not need to be the victim of trauma or direct witness to trauma to develop PTSD. Someone can develop post-traumatic stress disorder by learning about traumatic experiences that occurred to someone they love, such as a parent or sibling.

What are the signs of PTSD?

Struggles with PTSD can occur in people of all ages. In many cases, the symptoms of PTSD will look similar across most age groups. Someone experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms will feel as though there is no escape from their trauma. The events that led to the trauma and the trauma itself will replay in their mind, regardless of how hard they try to shut them out. To avoid reliving their experience or feeling the painful emotions that occur from reliving, someone with PTSD will consciously avoid situations, people, or places that could remind them of their traumatic event or experience. Reliving can also occur at night. You may experience vivid dreams or nightmares that feel overwhelmingly real and extremely scary. These dreams inevitably lead to sleeping challenges and other difficulties that can make functioning in one’s day-to-day environment difficult.

Although everyone will experience PTSD symptoms differently, many signs of PTSD occur in varying degrees of severity across most cases. These include:

• Frequent anxiety or anxious feelings.
• Difficulties focusing at work, school, or at home.
• Experiencing nightmares or flashbacks.
• Acting aggressively or impulsively.
• Acting or expressing “emotional numbness.”
• Actively avoiding people, places, or situations that risk leading to recall of the trauma.
• Overreacting to everyday noises or sounds (clapping hands, popping balloons, or slamming doors).
• Exhibiting hypervigilance (always being “on guard” for something bad to happen).

What Causes PTSD?

PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder can arise from several different forms of trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder often occurs after someone directly witnesses or personally experiences a traumatic event. The idea of trauma or a traumatic event may differ for different people. Some common examples of trauma that can lead to PTSD include abuse, serious injury, illness, natural disasters, assault, and experiencing acts of terrorism.

One can also develop PTSD after learning about a friend or loved one experiencing trauma. What might be considered traumatic will vary from person to person, but each unique experience can lead to complex mental health challenges requiring careful and compassionate treatment to overcome.

Finding PTSD Treatment Near Me

Many people who experience a traumatic event experience lasting mental health struggles. Without mental health therapy, the experience of trauma can lead to a range of physical and mental health struggles that can worsen over time. It is not uncommon for symptoms to become so overwhelming that individuals turn to substances to reduce the intensity and severity of their symptoms. Unfortunately, the relief provided by substance use does not last long, and symptoms often return stronger than before. Seeking professional treatment help is the safest and most effective way to safely put struggles with PTSD in the past.Learning how to manage PTSD without turning to self-medication requires comprehensive treatment in an environment where the program focuses on your specific needs. Everyone who begins therapy for mental health or addiction-related illness starts at a different place in their journey. The best treatment programs are those like Relevance Recovery, where each patient works closely with their treatment team to develop a plan that focuses on all aspects of healing, including physical, emotional, and spiritual components. Let us help you as you begin your journey to healing. Contact the admissions team at Relevance Recovery today to learn more about our programs and how we can help.