Alcoholism is a challenging issue that affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. Living with an alcoholic spouse can be challenging and may cause significant stress and emotional pain. If you or someone you know is struggling to help an alcoholic spouse, you’re not alone. At Inner Voyage Recovery, we understand the challenges of living with an alcoholic spouse, and we have created this informative guide to help you on how to help them.
Signs of Alcoholism in a Spouse
Recognizing the signs of alcoholism in a spouse is the first step in getting help. Some common signs of alcoholism in a spouse may include:
Drinking alone or in secret
Drinking in the morning or throughout the day
Neglecting responsibilities at work or home
Drinking to cope with stress or emotional pain
Blacking out or forgetting events
Becoming defensive or angry when confronted about their drinking
Physical symptoms such as tremors or shakes
How Can You Help an Alcoholic Spouse?
Helping an alcoholic spouse can be challenging, but it’s essential to encourage them to seek professional help. Here are some steps you can take to help an alcoholic spouse:
Express Your Concern
Expressing your concern to your spouse about their drinking can be challenging, but it’s essential to do so in a caring and supportive manner. Avoid criticizing or blaming your spouse, and focus on how their drinking is affecting you and your relationship.
Encourage Them to Seek Professional Help
Encourage your spouse to seek professional help. Inner Voyage Recovery offers a range of addiction treatment programs, including a Partial Hospitalization Program, an Intensive Outpatient Program, and Outpatient Programs. Our team of addiction specialists can provide the support and guidance needed to overcome addiction and maintain long-term sobriety.
Support Them During Treatment
Supporting your spouse during treatment can be a crucial aspect of their recovery. Attend family therapy sessions, encourage them to participate in support groups, and create a supportive home environment.
Effects of Living With an Alcoholic Spouse or Partner
Living with an alcoholic spouse or partner can have significant effects on your physical, emotional, and mental health. Here are some of the most common effects of living with an alcoholic spouse:
Increased Stress and Anxiety
Living with an alcoholic spouse can be incredibly stressful, as you may never know when they will become intoxicated or how they will behave. This uncertainty can cause anxiety and fear, leading to chronic stress and other negative health effects.
Emotional and Physical Exhaustion
Living with an alcoholic spouse can be emotionally and physically exhausting. You may find yourself constantly worrying about your spouse, trying to cover up their behavior, or dealing with the aftermath of their drinking. This can lead to feelings of exhaustion, burnout, and even physical health problems.
Increased Risk of Domestic Violence
Alcoholism and domestic violence are often linked, as alcohol can lower inhibitions and increase aggression. Living with an alcoholic spouse can increase your risk of experiencing domestic violence, which can have long-lasting physical and emotional effects.
Financial Problems
Alcoholism can be a costly addiction, and living with an alcoholic spouse can lead to financial problems. Your spouse may spend money on alcohol instead of paying bills, leading to financial stress and instability.
Relationship Issues and Breakdowns
Living with an alcoholic spouse can take a significant toll on your relationship. You may feel distant, disconnected, or resentful toward your spouse, which can lead to relationship issues and even breakdowns.
If you are living with an alcoholic spouse, it’s important to prioritize your own physical, emotional, and mental health.
How to Deal With an Alcoholic Spouse that Doesn’t Want Help
Dealing with an alcoholic spouse who doesn’t want help can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to encourage them to seek treatment. Consider staging an intervention, seeking the help of a professional interventionist, or attending a support group for spouses of alcoholics.
Support Groups for Spouses of Alcoholics
Support groups for spouses of alcoholics provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and gain support from others who are going through similar struggles. These groups offer a space for spouses to share their emotions, frustrations, and concerns related to their partner’s alcoholism.
Support groups can also offer valuable information and resources on how to deal with a spouse’s alcoholism. Members of support groups can share their personal experiences and offer advice on how to handle challenging situations, such as how to talk to a spouse about their drinking or how to deal with the aftermath of an alcohol-related incident.
Two of the most popular support groups for spouses of alcoholics are Al-Anon and Nar-Anon. Al-Anon is a support group for friends and family members of alcoholics, while Nar-Anon is a support group for friends and family members of individuals struggling with drug addiction. Both groups use the 12-step approach, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous and other addiction recovery groups.
In these support groups, members are encouraged to share their experiences and emotions, with an emphasis on mutual support, encouragement, and understanding. Members are also encouraged to focus on their own recovery and personal growth rather than solely on the alcoholic spouse.
Support groups can be a valuable resource for spouses of alcoholics, as they provide a sense of community and support. They can also help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a non-judgmental space to share personal struggles and emotions.
Alcoholism Treatment in Atlanta, GA
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, Inner Voyage Recovery can help. We offer a range of addiction treatment programs that are tailored to meet individual needs. Our team of addiction specialists can provide the support and guidance needed to overcome addiction and maintain long-term sobriety. Give us a call or visit our admissions page to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one overcome alcoholism.
Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in the United States, with many individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Unfortunately, alcohol overdose is a serious concern that can result in coma or even death. Fortunately, there is a medication called Narcan that is used to reverse opioid overdoses. In recent years, there has been discussion about whether Narcan can also be used to treat alcohol overdose. This page will explore the use of Narcan for alcohol and its potential benefits.
What is Narcan?
Narcan is a medication that is also known as naloxone. It is used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, which can be life-threatening. Narcan works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain and can quickly reverse the symptoms of an overdose, including slowed or stopped breathing.
Narcan is available in several forms, including a nasal spray and an injection. The nasal spray is easy to use and can be administered by anyone, even if they have no medical training. The injection is typically administered by medical professionals.
It is important to note that Narcan is not a substitute for medical treatment and should not be relied upon as the sole form of treatment for opioid addiction.
What Does Narcan Do?
Narcan works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids. Instead of producing a euphoric effect, it blocks the opioids from binding and reverses the respiratory depression caused by the overdose.
Narcan can be administered through several different routes, including injection, nasal spray, or auto-injector. The nasal spray and auto-injector forms of Narcan are easy to use and do not require any medical training, making it more accessible for family members or friends of someone who may be at risk of an overdose.
Overall, Narcan is an effective medication for reversing opioid overdoses and has saved countless lives. It is a valuable tool in preventing overdose deaths and promoting harm reduction in communities affected by the opioid epidemic.
Can Narcan Be Used for Alcohol Overdose?
While Narcan is used to treat opioid overdoses, it is not effective in treating alcohol overdoses. Alcohol overdose occurs when a person drinks more alcohol than their body can handle, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Unlike opioids, alcohol does not bind to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, which means that Narcan is ineffective in treating alcohol overdose.
Although Narcan may not be effective for alcohol overdose, there are other treatments available for alcohol addiction and overdose. Seeking medical attention and professional treatment is crucial for those struggling with alcohol misuse or dependence.
Narcan Side Effects
While Narcan is a relatively safe drug, there are still potential side effects that users should be aware of. The most common side effects of Narcan include the following:
Nausea and vomiting: Some people who receive Narcan may experience nausea and vomiting shortly after administration. This is typically a short-lived side effect that goes away on its own.
Agitation: Narcan can cause some people to feel agitated or restless. This is especially true if they are experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms at the same time.
Headache: Some people may experience a headache after receiving Narcan. This is also a side effect that is usually mild and goes away quickly.
Rapid heartbeat: Narcan can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat in some people. This side effect does not have a long duration and goes away on its own.
Sweating: Some people may experience sweating after receiving Narcan. This is another temporary and normal response to the medication.
It is important to note that Narcan is generally safe and well-tolerated. Most people who receive Narcan do not experience any significant side effects.
Benefits of Narcan
Despite its limited use in treating alcohol overdose, Narcan has many benefits when it comes to treating opioid overdoses. It is a safe and effective medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an overdose and save lives. Narcan can be administered by trained professionals, including emergency medical technicians and police officers. In some states, Narcan is available over the counter without a prescription, making it more accessible to individuals who may be at risk of overdose.
How to Get Narcan
If you or someone you know is at risk of opioid overdose, it is important to have Narcan on hand. Narcan can be obtained through a prescription from a healthcare provider, or in some states, it can be obtained over the counter without a prescription. Many addiction treatment centers also provide Narcan to their clients as part of their harm reduction efforts.
Contact Our Drug & Alcohol Treatment Center in Atlanta, GA
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, Inner Voyage Recovery in Atlanta, Georgia, is here to help. Our compassionate team of professionals offers a range of evidence-based treatments, including detox, residential treatment, and outpatient programs. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive approach to addiction treatment.
Untreated alcoholism can rob a person of the ability to moderate their behaviors. But some people who struggle with an addiction to alcohol retain a modicum of control and stability. People who do this are often said to have high-functioning alcoholism.
The Difference Between Alcoholism & High-Functioning Alcoholism
To determine if someone meets the criteria for alcoholism or another form of addiction, most clinicians in the United States refer to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-5). This reference book includes the following criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder (which is the clinical term for alcoholism):
Having powerful cravings for alcohol
Spending significant amounts of time acquiring and using alcohol, as well as recovering from the effects of alcohol abuse
Drinking more (or more often) than originally intended
Failing to meet personal, academic, or occupational responsibilities due to ongoing alcohol use
No longer participating in hobbies, social activities, or recreational pursuits because of continued alcohol use
Using alcohol in ways or circumstances that are clearly hazardous, such as mixing alcohol with prescription pills or other drugs
Continuing to drink even after incurring physical and/or psychological damage that can be attributed to prior alcohol abuse
Continuing to drink even after prior alcohol use has disrupted relationships with friends, family members, colleagues, and romantic partners
Developing tolerance, or needing to consume greater amounts of alcohol to achieve the intoxicating effects that previously occurred after just a few drinks
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, which can include both physical and psychological distress, when unable to drink or after abruptly attempting to stop drinking
Wanting to either quit drinking or reduce the amount and frequency of one’s alcohol use, trying to accomplish these goals, but being unable to do so
According to the DSM-5, a person only needs to meet two of the criteria listed above to be diagnosed with an addiction to alcohol
People who meet fewer than five of these criteria are often described as having mild or moderate alcohol use disorder. Depending on which criteria a person meets, and how severely they are affected, individuals who have mild or moderate alcohol use disorder may also be referred to as having high-functioning alcoholism.
The term high-functioning alcoholism is not included as either a diagnosis or a qualifier in the DSM-5, but it is still often used by clinicians, addiction counselors, and other experts to provide a general description of how a person has been impacted by compulsive alcohol abuse.
Signs & Symptoms of High-Functioning Alcoholism
A person who has high-functioning alcoholism may only have a few symptoms. Also, they may go to great lengths to hide these symptoms from friends, family members, and colleagues. This means that it can be extremely difficult to tell if someone in your life has this form of addiction.
If you suspect that someone you know may have developed high-functioning alcoholism, you may want to keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms:
They claim that they think more clearly and function better when they’ve had a few drinks.
They often drink at home before they go out.
They have a habit of stopping at a bar or liquor store on the way home from work just about every day.
They don’t seem to be able to have fun without drinking.
You have noticed sudden, significant changes in their mindset, motivation, and activity level at apparently random times throughout the day.
You have noticed distinct differences in their personality depending on if they have or have not been drinking.
They joke or brag about how much they drink.
They use alcohol to reward themselves for successes.
You have smelled alcohol on their breath early in the day, while they are at work, or at other times when they should not have been drinking.
Someone who exhibits these types of signs and symptoms may be in crisis and should seek professional care. Thankfully, high-functioning alcoholism is a treatable condition. In many cases, outpatient treatment can be the start of the path toward an alcohol-free future.
Outpatient Treatment for High-Functioning Alcoholism
Inner Voyage Recovery Center offers three levels of outpatient care for individuals who have been living with high-functioning alcoholism. Depending on the nature and severity of your struggles with alcohol abuse, you may benefit from receiving services at one or more of the following levels:
Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
Outpatient rehab
Within these levels of care, you may participate in the following types of therapies and services:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Individual therapy
Group therapy
Family programming
Adventure therapy
Trauma therapy
Find Treatment for Alcoholism in Atlanta, GA
Inner Voyage Recovery Center is a trusted source of personalized outpatient treatment for adults who have developed high-functioning alcoholism and other forms of addiction. When you choose to begin your recovery journey at our treatment center near Atlanta, Georgia, you can receive quality care from a team of skilled and compassionate professionals.
With our help, you can overcome the constraints of high-functioning alcoholism, regain control of your behavior, and start living a much healthier and more authentic life. To learn more about our programs and services, or to schedule a free assessment, please either visit our admissions page or call us today.
TV shows and movies often portray people with drinking problems as confused, disheveled, and incapable of getting through the day without embarrassing themselves and their loved ones. While some people sadly conform to this unfortunate stereotype, others are able to hide the evidence of their alcohol abuse and live what appears to be a productive and satisfying life. These individuals are often referred to as high-functioning alcoholics.
What Is a High-Functioning Alcoholic?
Before we delve into this topic, it is important to clarify that “high-functioning alcoholic” is not a clinical term. It is a casual way to describe someone who appears to have avoided the more devastating effects of alcohol addiction.
The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) includes 11 criteria for alcohol use disorder (which is how mental and behavioral health professionals refer to alcoholism). However, in order to be accurately diagnosed with this condition, a person only has to meet two of these criteria during a 12-month period.
The diagnosis of alcohol use disorder can be subdivided into three categories based on how many DSM-5 criteria a person meets:
Mild: Two or three criteria
Moderate: Four or five criteria
Severe: Six or more criteria
If a person has a mild or moderate alcohol use disorder, they may be able to retain some semblance of control over their lives even as they struggle with the compulsion to drink more (and more frequently) than is healthy.
A high-functioning alcoholic may perform well in school, make steady progress in their career, and otherwise give the outward appearance of being a happy and successful person. Unbeknownst to others, though, these individuals may be putting their livelihoods (and their lives) at risk every day due to an uncontrollable urge to drink.
Signs of High-Functioning Alcoholism
The very nature of this condition makes it difficult to detect if someone is a high-functioning alcoholic.
In typical cases of alcoholism, people exhibit signs such as slurred speech, impaired coordination, diminished cognition, frequent absenteeism from school or work, failure to meet personal or occupational responsibilities, and a clear inability to stop drinking.
In the case of a high-functioning alcoholic, they either don’t have some of the more obvious symptoms of alcohol use disorder or they have become skilled at hiding these symptoms from friends, family members, colleagues, and others with whom they regularly come into contact.
However, this doesn’t mean that it is impossible to determine if someone that you know is a high-functioning alcoholic. Here are a few key indicators to keep an eye out for:
When they are socializing, they often have multiple drinks in a short period of time.
They rarely or never have an alcohol-free lunch or dinner.
They have no hesitation about driving after they have been drinking.
They often “pregame,” or drink at home (alone or with others) before going to a bar, club, or event where they will continue to consume alcohol.
They claim that having a drink or two “loosens them up” or allows them to function more effectively.
They keep alcohol in their desk at work, in the glove box in their car, or in other places where this substance is not typically found.
They often exhibit sudden changes in mood, attitude, and energy.
They become agitated, irritated, or even angry when they are in situations where they cannot drink.
You suspect that they have been lying to you or others about how they spend their time and who they associate with.
Effects of High-Functioning Alcoholism
Outwardly, a high-functioning alcoholic may appear to be in control of their life. But regardless of what level of academic achievement, career advancement, or financial success they have attained, they remain at risk for negative effects such as the following:
Damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys
Cognitive deficits
Malnutrition
Conflicts in their relationships
Physical injuries due to slips, falls, automobile accidents, or violent outbursts
Legal problems such as being arrest for driving while intoxicated
Elevated risk for certain cancers
Development of anxiety, depression, or another co-occurring mental health concern
Polysubstance abuse
Job loss and long-term unemployment
Financial problems
Accidental death
Suicidal ideation
High-functioning alcoholics may drink as a means of numbing themselves to emotional pain that is related to poor stress management capabilities, self-doubt, a history of untreated trauma, or myriad other influences. The desire to keep their alcohol abuse a secret may prevent a person from getting help to address their addictive behaviors. This, in turn, means that they are also unlikely to seek treatment for their mental or emotional concerns.
It is not difficult to see how this can lead to a downward spiral of worsening mental health and increasingly more severe alcohol abuse. In the absence of effective professional treatment, a high-functioning alcoholic remains in perpetual jeopardy for devastating physical, emotional, and socioeconomic outcomes.
Begin Treatment for Alcohol Addiction in Atlanta
If you have been struggling with alcohol addiction, or if you believe that someone that you care about is a high-functioning alcoholic, please know that help is available. At Inner Voyage Recovery Center in Atlanta, Georgia, adults receive the personalized care they need to end their alcohol abuse and begin their journey toward successful recovery.
Features of treatment at our center include detoxification, multiple outpatient programs, a variety of effective therapies, and unwavering support. When you’re ready to start living a healthier and more hopeful life, the Inner Voyage Recovery Center team is here for you. Visit our admissions page or call us today to learn more.
The term “psychosis” often prompts thoughts of complex mental health concerns such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. But alcohol abuse can also trigger the onset of psychotic episodes. If someone that you care about has been exhibiting alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms, they are in crisis and need immediate professional help.
What Is Alcohol-Induced Psychosis?
Alcohol-induced psychosis, which is also sometimes referred to as alcohol-related psychosis, is a mental health concern that involves a series of distressing symptoms that disrupt a person’s ability to correctly perceive their environment and interact with others.
It is important to understand that alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms are not the same as the intoxicating effects that a person typically experiences when they drink alcohol. Alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms can be much more severe and cause significantly greater harm.
According to a 2015 review from The Netherlands, the lifetime prevalence of alcohol-induced psychosis among the general public is about 0.4%. However, among people who develop alcohol use disorder (which is the clinical term for alcohol addiction), the rate of alcohol-induced psychosis rises to 4%. This represents a tenfold increase in alcohol-induced psychosis between the general public and people who have become addicted to alcohol.
What Are the Symptoms of Alcohol-Induced Psychosis?
The two main symptoms of alcohol-induced psychosis are hallucinations and delusions:
Auditory hallucinations: This may include hearing voices or other sounds that do not exist. A person who develops auditory hallucinations may believe that the sounds are originating inside their own head or that they are coming from an external source.
Visual hallucinations: These can include seeing people, shapes, or patterns that are not actually there. Visual hallucinations are often associated with schizophrenia and psychedelic drugs, but they can also be symptomatic of alcohol-induced psychosis.
Delusions: This is a general category that can include a variety of firm, rigid beliefs that are easily disproven or that have no basis in reality. Examples of delusional thinking include believing that a person is being spied on, persecuted, or controlled by a government agency. A person who has delusions might also believe that they are in a romantic relationship with a famous person (who they have never actually met) or that they have certain special abilities or magical powers.
The following behaviors or characteristics may indicate that a person is experiencing symptoms of alcohol-induced psychosis:
Agitation and irritability
Claiming that someone is out to get them
Being unable to communicate clearly or engage in conversations
Intense fear or paranoia in the absence of any credible threat
Dramatic mood swings, including sudden outbursts of anger or violence
Confusion and disorientation
Poor self-care and lack of attention to personal hygiene
Who Is at Risk for Alcohol-Induced Psychosis?
Anyone who drinks alcohol is potentially at risk for alcohol-induced psychosis. The more a person drinks, the greater their risk becomes for developing these symptoms. However, the likelihood of developing alcohol-induced psychosis is higher among certain individuals.
According to the Dutch study that we referenced in an earlier section, alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms are most common among working-age men. That study also noted that people who meet criteria such as the following may also have an elevated risk for developing this mental health concern:
Developed alcohol use disorder at a younger age
Have low socioeconomic status
Are unemployed or living on a pension
Live alone
Studies also suggest that having a father who struggled with addiction and/or mental health concerns can also increase a person’s risk for experiencing symptoms of alcohol-induced psychosis.
How Is Alcohol-Induced Psychosis Treated in Atlanta, GA?
Treatment for alcohol-induced psychosis must address two important concerns: the alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms that the individual has been experiencing and the compulsion to abuse alcohol that led to the onset of these symptoms.
In most cases, alcohol-induced psychosis symptoms will subside once a person stops drinking. To accomplish this, a person may need services such as the following:
Detoxification: Also known as detox, this is a short-term, professionally managed program that allows a person to complete alcohol withdrawal safely and with as little discomfort as possible. Among people who have been drinking heavily for an extended period of time, alcohol withdrawal can be extremely dangerous and potentially deadly. Detox minimizes the health risks of withdrawal, so people can rid their bodies of this dangerous drug.
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs): At the PHP level, people can receive full days of therapy and related support services to help them establish a strong foothold in early recovery. During a person’s time in a PHP, they can learn about the disease of addiction, identify the triggers that may threaten their continued recovery, and develop essential relapse-prevention skills.
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs): Many people step down to an IOP after completing alcohol addiction treatment at the PHP level. IOPs typically offer a few hours of treatment a few days each week. This allows participants to have a structured connection to quality clinical care while also having the opportunity to work, take classes, and otherwise engage in a healthy and productive lifestyle.
Outpatient treatment: This is the most flexible level of outpatient care for alcohol addiction. Participants can schedule sessions as needed. Outpatient treatment can be a vital source of ongoing support as a person works to progress in their recovery.
Begin Treatment for Alcohol Addiction Near Atlanta
You don’t have to wait until you hit “rock bottom” to get help for an addiction to alcohol. The day you enter treatment, you take a significant step toward a healthier and more hopeful future. Inner Voyage Recovery Center offers several levels of personalized outpatient care to help adults end their alcohol use and achieve successful, long-term recovery. To learn more about our programs and services, or to schedule a free assessment, give us a call or visit our admissions page.
Drug addiction doesn’t just affect the person using substances, drug addiction affects the entire family. It can affect husbands, wives, children, sisters, brothers, Moms, Dads, and more. Nobody is immune from the lingering effects drug addiction can have, and maladaptive coping mechanisms can go on to affect multiple generations down the line.
In this article, we will outline some of the ways substance abuse can affect your loved ones. If any of these situations sound familiar to you or are situations that you would like to avoid, be sure to learn more about our drug rehab in Atlanta to help you kickstart your journey to full recovery.
How Drug Addiction Effects The Family
How Drug Addiction Effects Children
Of all the family members in the household, the children are often affected the most. Growing up with a parent who is an alcoholic or a drug addict can cause emotional and mental issues, from loneliness and guilt to anxiety and depression. To make matters worse, the children who grow up with these negative emotions typically carry them through every aspect of their life, causing them to seek therapy at best or continue the cycle of addiction at worst.
All mental and emotional side effects aside, children can also be physically affected by substance abuse in the home. For instance, a pregnant mother abusing drugs or alcohol can cause their unborn child to develop abnormally, or an abusive parent relying heavily on substances may hurt the children in many seen and unseen ways.
In other cases, the household’s finances being taken over by expensive drugs and alcohol can lead to children not receiving the education they need nor the food they require to grow properly. Additionally, financial strain can lead to turbulent home life and even homelessness. In a sense, drug addiction negatively affects every aspect of a child’s life and well-being and leads to the long-term damage that may never fully heal.
How Drug Addiction Effects Significant Others
Those who marry an addict may find out about the problem only later on in the relationship. Such a scenario can cause the marriage to deteriorate and ruin any hopes of reconciliation. Oftentimes, this situation leads to a messy, bitter divorce which can worsen the substance abuse issue as a whole. If that does not happen, the partner will likely have to take on a lot more responsibilities in the household, such as caring for the kids and earning enough income, leading to emotional strain and feelings of resentment.
In situations where both parents have a drug or alcohol addiction, life may continue as usual. However, the environment within such a household is not one of happiness, joy, and care. Instead, it is typically fueled by hate and toxicity. Such an environment does not foster healthy relationships as, in most cases, both the abusers will rather focus on their drug satisfaction than nurture the relationship between them or with their children.
Regardless of the specifics of the situation, an environment with addiction at its center is not a place for children or adults. As you may have experienced firsthand, drug addiction causes hurt. It’s highly encouraged that the sober partner does their best to find professional help for their loved one before the damage becomes irreparable.
Find Drug Rehab Today Near Atlanta!
Substance abuse, whether with drugs or alcohol, is never a good thing. It hurts the individual struggling with the substance and, devastatingly, the family, friends, and other people close to them. If you or a family member is battling addiction, it is crucial that you work to find the appropriate professional care to overcome the pull of the substance.
At Inner Voyage Recovery Center, we offer three different levels of care that include Partial Hospitalization Programming, Intensive Outpatient Programming, and more. While the journey to recovery is not easy, tackling and overcoming addiction may be the thing you need to bring your family back to the way things once were, giving your loved ones a chance to live and enjoy the life they deserve. But remember, though it may be tough, you are not alone in this fight.
Inner Voyage Recover Center is a drug and alcohol rehab center with effective programs geared towards offering tailored solutions to help addicted individuals regain their lives once more. Get in touch with us today and see how we can help!
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in the United States provides job protection for employees who need extended time off from work, so they can maintain their benefits and job responsibilities. When serious health conditions arise such as substance use disorder, it’s critical that you take time off from work to get the help you need. However, taking time to attend drug rehab or alcohol rehab can be daunting, especially if you’re concerned about your job security. Learn more about how FMLA for rehab works and how you can benefit the most.
FMLA for Rehab: What is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?
The Family and Medical Leave Act was introduced to Congress in 1984 but didn’t pass until 1993 under Bill Clinton’s presidency. This important federal policy has helped millions of Americans take the necessary time off from work to seek professional healthcare, or to provide care for an immediate family member. FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year while allowing you to keep your insurance group benefits (this can be up to 26 weeks for service member family leave). During these 12 weeks, your job is fully protected by law, so you may return to your employer with an equivalent job, pay, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment. Employers are not permitted to fault an employee (such as reduced pay) for using FMLA to take time off. An employer is also not allowed to interfere with your right to take FMLA leave.
Your job provides FMLA if it has these qualifications:
If you work for a private-sector employer, your company must have 50 or more employees in 20 or more workweeks.
Applies to all public agencies on local, state, and federal levels. A minimum number of employees is not required.
Applies to public or private elementary or secondary schools. A minimum number of employees is not required.
In 2008, military family leave provisions were added.
All employers must be covered by insurance.
In general, you must provide 30 days’ notice before taking FMLA leave. However, unforeseen circumstances for shorter notice are permitted, especially since you can’t always control the ups and downs of serious health conditions.
While the above qualifications are federal standards, some states have additional regulations to help employees and employers. For instance, 10 states currently provide paid FMLA leave. Many states have also created laws that serve businesses under 50 employees and employees who have worked less than 1,250 hours for the company. You can look up additional FMLA regulations based on your state.
Who Qualifies for FMLA?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employees can qualify for FMLA for the following family and medical reasons:
The birth and care of a newborn child to a spouse
Placement for adoption or foster care of a child
Care for an immediate family member (spouse, domestic partner, sibling, parent, grandparent, grandchild) with a serious health condition
Personal care for a serious health condition
Maternity
There are three different types of FMLA: continuous, intermittent, and reduced schedule leave. Continuous refers to an employee being absent for three consecutive business days while they seek medical treatment. Intermittent refers to an employee who needs to miss work in separate hourly, daily, or weekly blocks (typically used for ongoing treatment). Reduced schedule leave allows an employee to work fewer hours during the week to take care of themselves or a family member.
There are certain conditions you must meet on top of the above circumstances:
You must have worked for a minimum of 12 months, although these 12 months do not have to be consecutive (for instance, you could have taken other breaks and resumed periods of working).
You must have logged at least 1250 hours over the last 12 months. These hours are defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which establishes policies such as minimum wage and overtime pay.
You must live within 75 miles of your employer.
If you are unsure if you meet the above qualifications, check with your employer to determine your work tenure.
What Qualifies as a Serious Health Condition?
It might be confusing to determine what qualifies as a serious health condition since everyone is different and requires different levels of care. According to the FMLA law, a serious health condition is anything that prevents you from doing the essential duties of your job–whether that’s mental, physical, or both.
Examples include severe cases of mental health disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar. Physical health conditions include cancer, diabetes, pregnancy, and multiple sclerosis. This also applies to family members you need to care for who are dealing with these conditions.
Luckily, diagnosis and treatment are completely confidential, thanks to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). Employees are not required to tell their diagnosis to their employer, but they must provide information indicating that their leave is due to a condition protected by FMLA.
For example, if your doctor said you needed to stay home for an extended period of time to take antibiotics, or you need to be hospitalized, this is information your employer should know. It’s important to have good communication with your employer, so you understand your rights to paid leave, and so your employer understands when you are able to return to work.
Does FMLA Cover Substance Abuse Treatment?
Yes, FMLA covers substance abuse treatment for an individual employee, or for an employee who is caring for a family member going through treatment. Addiction affects a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being and can severely impair someone’s ability to perform daily tasks at their job. It is a complicated disorder that requires multi-faceted treatment, and most treatment centers offer 30, 60, and 90-day programs.
FMLA for Alcohol Treatment
Under the FMLA, alcohol addiction is considered a serious medical condition as it affects the function of the brain and body. This means employees are eligible for 12 weeks of unpaid leave. Alcoholism can greatly impact an employee’s ability to work and can result in financial loss for companies as a result of absenteeism, loss in productivity, and employee health complications. Alcohol rehab in Atlanta is often needed stay abstinent for good.
FMLA for Drug Abuse Treatment
Similarly, FMLA covers leave for our drug rehab in Atlanta, as this is considered a serious medical condition. As stated earlier, FMLA does not protect employees from missing work as a result of drug abuse.
Do I need to take FMLA leave all at once?
No, you don’t need to use your full 12 weeks of FMLA leave all at once. You can take FMLA as a single block, or spread it out over multiple, smaller blocks of time. This is especially helpful for patients receiving ongoing therapy and treatment who may need to leave work early or reduce their hours on a daily or weekly basis.
For example, an employee undergoing surgery who needs three weeks off may take partial leave, or an employee doing outpatient rehab who needs to do weekly hospital visits will benefit from this model. Your employer is required to document periods of FMLA leave.
Can I use PTO (paid time off) during FMLA leave?
While FMLA leave is unpaid, you are allowed to use sick time, vacation time, or any other PTO days your employer permits, so that you can get paid on those days. You will need to follow the normal process of submitting PTO requests to take these days off. When you use paid leave for FMLA purposes, this time is still protected by FMLA policies. Using PTO may be a wise choice, especially if it’s toward the end of the year when PTO may reset.
How to Apply for FMLA
Applying to FMLA is a relatively straightforward process, provided that you and your employer meet the legal requirements to be able to use FMLA leave. Each employer is different, but there’s a general flow you and your employer need to follow to have FMLA leave approved.
Steps for Applying to FMLA:
Provide a 30-day notice to your employer when you plan to take leave. If you find out you must take leave sooner than 30 days, provide notice as soon as possible to your employer. You will not be penalized if you cannot provide a 30-day notice. However, it’s important to do it as quickly as possible to sort out your application and make sure you have time to find a treatment center.
Your employer is required to provide you with your FMLA rights and responsibilities. This includes your right to maintain health benefits, your right to return to your job, and a definition of the 12-month period your employer uses to keep track of FMLA time off. Failure to do so could result in a penalty of up to $110. They may also request a medical certification from a healthcare provider (see below).
If certification is requested, you must provide a completed form to your employer within 15 calendar days.
Your employer must notify you within 5 business days if FMLA has been approved. Once approved, you are permitted to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. When you return, your employer must keep you at your same job, or an equivalent job with the same pay, benefits, and responsibilities.
Covered employers must include information about FMLA in their employee handbooks, or provide this information to new hires. It is unlawful for an employer to deny an employee the right to exercise rights provided by the FMLA, or to discriminate against employees for choosing to do so.
If you’re overwhelmed with the application process, or simply need guidance, Inner Voyage can help you apply for FMLA and guide you through each step while you communicate with your employer. Our team is here to help make the process easier and stress-free.
What if my employer needs a medical certification?
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has developed certification forms for employees to fill out and provide to their employers. These forms can be printed or filled out electronically. Employers may also use their own forms, as long as those forms require the same basic information.
There are 2 main FMLA certification forms:
Form WH-380-E: This applies to an employee requesting leave for a serious health condition.
Form WH-380-F: This applies to an employee requesting leave due to a serious health condition of a family member.
There are also three different certifications of military family leave, which you can find on the DOL website. This includes the Qualifying Exigency from WH-384 and the Military Caregiver Leave of a Veteran. These forms cover basics including job title, work schedule, essential job functions, the type of care you or a family member is receiving, and the amount of leave needed.
Find Addiction Treatment Near Atlanta Today!
Inner Voyage Recovery Center is a full-service rehab and treatment center based near Atlanta, Georgia. However, we are more than just a Woodstock recovery center for patients–we are a team of professionals who care about the well-being of our patients and seek to break the cycle of addiction by providing healthy, lasting coping methods. We believe everyone belongs, everyone can heal, and everyone can lead a fulfilling life.
Inner Voyage was founded by Jeff Baucom who recovered from his own addiction to drugs and alcohol. Jeff’s philosophy is founded on the idea that true wellness begins with inner spiritual peace, which has mental, physical, and emotional factors. Many professionals at Inner Voyage are also recovered addicts, so they deeply understand the process of seeking treatment, withdrawal, and the joy that comes with living a renewed life. At Inner Voyage, you can begin a new journey of connection to yourself and others while breaking the cycles of addiction.
Inner Voyage provides 30, 60, and 90-day treatment programs that treat substance abuse for alcohol, heroin, opioids, cocaine, marijuana, prescription pills, and methamphetamine. We understand that no two addictions are the same, which is why we provide professional, personalized treatment to every individual. Our goal is to treat the underlying conditions and trauma that led to addiction in the first place.
By working with patients to get medical help and address these issues to deal with life’s daily stressors, as well as Christian recovery center options. Once done with treatment, our patients can safely return to work and home life armed with healthy coping strategies.
Finding the Right Treatment Program
Today, drug and alcohol addiction affects nearly 23.5 million Americans. However, only 10% of these individuals will receive the necessary treatment to attain and maintain sobriety.
At Inner Voyage, our treatment programs are flexible, so that every patient gets the exact care that they need. We offer partial hospitalization, inpatient treatment, intensive outpatient programs in Atlanta, residential programs, and recovery housing.
Additionally, we provide numerous counseling services to address the trauma behind addiction, including drug counseling, an adventure-based counseling program, CBT therapy, and faith-based counseling.
I am looking for a PHP program near me, can Inner Voyage help?
PHP treatment, an abbreviation for partial hospitalization programs, typically requires 5 visits per week depending on the needs of the patient. This type of program is more intensive than outpatient treatment and is recommended for individuals leaving rehab as an intermediary step, or for those undergoing withdrawal symptoms.
PHP is extremely effective when paired with additional services, such as therapy and community activities. If you’re looking for a Canton rehab center or Woodstock rehab center that provides PHP, Inner Voyage can help.
I am looking for IOP programs near me, can Inner Voyage help?
IOP refers to intensive outpatient programs for recovering addicts. IOP treatment requires less time commitment than PHP and allows patients to integrate back into their normal lives. Patients still receive medical and psychological care but can choose how often they’d like to go, and where they’d like to go.
IOP is recommended for individuals who have surpassed the withdrawal stage and do not need 24/7 monitoring, or those suffering from more mild addiction. It encourages patients to get back to their daily routines while being realistic about medical and psychological needs.
What is Adventure-Based Counseling?
Inner Voyage offers an interactive, engaging adventure-based counseling program to help patients thrive in immersive environments. Adventure-based counseling (ABC) utilizes group therapy to create experiential learning opportunities and group activities.
By combining nature, new challenges, and daring exercises, patients can get hands-on experience and overcome negative, self-defeating beliefs. Types of ABC include camping, rock climbing, kayaking, obstacle courses, paddle boarding, and white-water rafting. These outdoor activities can help people overcome mental and physical challenges by getting them outside their comfort zone, while guided by professional counselors and supportive team members.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rehab Facility
Choosing the right program for drug and alcohol addiction can be overwhelming, especially when decision-making is impaired by the effects of substance abuse. There are a few factors to keep in mind when applying for FMLA and choosing the best addiction treatment program.
Time Commitment: When seeking treatment, it’s important to accept that proper care will require significant time commitment and intention. While the time commitment may be daunting at first, it is designed to help you thrive in the long-term, saving you time, money, and energy that otherwise would have been eliminated by substance abuse. The shortest rehab programs are 30 days, while longer programs are 90 days. Each program is personalized to a patient’s needs and may involve hospitalization or outpatient care.
Cost: While each insurance is different, they are required to cover mental and behavioral health services. Check with your employer and/or insurance provider to see what is covered under drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Most facilities also offer payment plans, rather than upfront costs.
Lifestyle: Choosing a rehab facility that’s right for you also comes down to lifestyle. At Inner Voyage, we take a full, comprehensive look at our patients’ needs to provide a spectrum of medical treatments and therapy. We can also provide a spiritual component to treatment, allowing patients to explore the deeper meaning behind their addiction and life purpose. Lifestyle also refers to whether or not you want inpatient or outpatient treatment, as each program provides different benefits and structures.
Begin Your Recovery Journey with Inner Voyage
If you are applying for FMLA leave and seeking drug and alcohol treatment, Inner Voyage Recovery Center has the tools to help you cope with addiction and return to a healthier lifestyle. Our team is also qualified to help with FMLA applications to make the process easier and stress-free.
If you’re struggling with sobriety, you’re not alone. The summer can be a tough time for people in recovery. As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, summertime can be a trigger for some. Whether it’s the increased temptation to drink at BBQs or the sense of loneliness that can come from seeing friends post photos of their vacations on social media, there are several challenges that can arise during the summer months. However, it’s important to remember that sobriety is a journey, not a destination, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy your summer without drinking or using drugs. At Inner Voyage Recovery, we’re here to help you stay sober and enjoy your summer.
Struggling with Sobriety: What Can Cause a Relapse
No matter how diligent you are in your recovery journey, there can still be setbacks along the way. The summer months are often home to these setbacks, and they could lead to a relapse if not handled correctly. There are some common factors that could contribute to a relapse, including stress, social pressure, isolation, boredom, and other unexpected triggering events. In order to handle these challenges that are often found in abundance in the summer, it’s important to discuss each of these triggers before finding healthy methods to cope with them.
Underlying Mental Health Conditions
Mental health conditions are often misunderstood. Many people think of them as simply bad moods or periods of stress that everyone faces. However, mental health conditions are real medical issues that can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. On occasion, they can also cause physical symptoms. People with mental health conditions may feel the need to self-medicate to deal with their symptoms, which is why it’s important to find effective, healthy coping methods if you have an underlying condition.
Peer Pressure During Gatherings
It can be hard to resist peer pressure, especially when it comes to drinking or doing drugs. Part of the reason why peer pressure is so tough to resist is that it’s often subtle. For example, you might be at a party where everyone is drinking. Even if nobody is directly pressuring you to drink or do drugs, you might feel like you’re the odd one out if you don’t join them.
Peer pressure can also be more explicit too. For example, someone might offer you a drink and keep asking you why you won’t take it. If you’re not careful, peer pressure can lead to behavior that you’ll regret later. It’s important to remember that you always have the power to say no to anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, even if your friends don’t understand.
Fear of Missing Out
For many people in recovery, the fear of missing out (FOMO) can be a powerful trigger for relapse. After all, it can be difficult to watch others engaged in activities that you are no longer participating in, especially if those activities were once a central part of your life. The FOMO sensation can cause feelings of loneliness, isolation, and envy, which can lead to negative coping mechanisms such as substance use.
In addition, the fear of missing out can also lead to impulsive decision-making and risky behaviors. For example, someone may decide to go to a party where drugs will be present in order to avoid feeling left out. However, this can quickly lead to a slippery slope that ultimately leads to relapse.
It’s important for people in recovery to find healthy ways to cope with the common fear of missing out. This can involve attending social events with sober friends, pursuing new hobbies, or simply taking some time for yourself. By finding positive outlets for the FOMO sensation, you can help prevent it from triggering a relapse.
Visiting a Triggering Location
It can be difficult to avoid triggering locations, especially if they are highly visible or easily accessible. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks of visiting these places. For some people in recovery, visiting a triggering location can lead to a relapse. This is because triggering locations are often associated with past alcohol abuse or drug use. The sight, smell, or even sound of a familiar location can trigger intense cravings that are difficult to handle.
Additionally, these locations may also bring you into contact with familiar drinkers or drug users from your past. If possible, it’s best to avoid these temptations entirely by avoiding these places. However, if you need to visit one of these locations, it’s important to stay focused on your recovery and resist any temptations associated with them.
Boredom and Isolation
It’s easy to become restless and bored when you’re stuck at home day after day. For people in recovery from substance abuse, this can be a dangerous situation. Boredom and isolation can lead to a relapse, as people may turn to substances in order to ease their boredom or cope with their feelings of loneliness. It’s important to find ways to stay engaged and connected even when you’re not able to be around other people.
There are many online support groups and forums that can help you feel less alone, and there are also many activities that you can do on your own to help stave off boredom. It’s also important to reach out to your friends and family members regularly, even if it’s just an occasional text or phone call. By staying engaged with the world around you, you’ll be less likely to relapse due to boredom and isolation.
Healthy Methods for When You’re Struggling with Sobriety
Summertime sobriety can be challenging, but there are many healthy methods that you can use to cope with it. If you’re struggling with the temptations associated with summertime, remember that you’re not alone. Many people in recovery have successfully navigated these challenges. In addition, there are many resources and support groups available to help you through this difficult time. By staying focused on your recovery and utilizing healthy coping mechanisms, you can make it through the summer without relapsing.
Diet and Exercise
Recovering from addiction is a lifelong journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, research has shown that maintaining a healthy lifestyle can play a large role in helping people stay sober. Eating healthy foods and exercising regularly can help boost your energy levels, improve your mood, and reduce stress. In addition, these activities help to provide a sense of well-being and self-care.
For people in recovery, taking care of yourself can be an important step in staying on the path to sobriety. Diet and exercise can help you stay sober by giving you the strength and energy to resist temptation. If you’re looking for good methods to stay sober, you should consider incorporating healthy eating and physical activity into your daily routine. At Inner Voyage Recovery, we believe that diet and exercise are so important that we actually provide health and wellness programs for our clients.
Spending Time With a Trusted Group
When you’re in recovery, it’s important to have a support system to help you stay on track. Spending time with friends and family can be a great way to stay connected and motivated. Friends and family can provide emotional support and practical help when you need it. They can also be a source of positive distraction from triggers and temptations. Plus, they can help hold you accountable for your sobriety. If you’re struggling to stay sober, consider spending more time with the people who care about you. You may be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.
Engage in Outdoor Activities
Sobriety can be a difficult road to navigate, but there are many ways to cope with the challenges it presents. One of the most effective coping mechanisms is engaging in outdoor activities. Being in nature has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, and it can also help to reduce stress levels. In addition, outdoor activities can provide a sense of purpose and structure during times of transition. They can also help to promote social connection, which is an important part of recovery. By participating in outdoor activities, you can gain a sense of control over your sobriety and start to build a foundation for a healthy life in recovery.
Continue Your On-Going Treatment Program
It can be difficult to stay on track with your sobriety, especially when faced with challenges and triggers in your everyday life. However, continuing your treatment program can help you to cope with these challenges and maintain your sobriety. Treatment programs provide support and guidance and can help you to develop strategies for dealing with difficult situations. They can also provide a sense of community and connection, which can be beneficial during times of isolation and stress. So, if you are struggling with sobriety, remember that continuing your treatment program can help you to cope with the challenges you are facing.
If You Need a Recovery Center Near You, Inner Voyage Can Help
If you’re struggling with sobriety, remember that you’re not alone. There are many resources and support groups available to help you through this difficult time. At Inner Voyage Recovery, we offer a variety of programs and services designed to help people in recovery maintain their sobriety. From Partial Hospitalization Programs to Intensive Outpatient Programs in Atlanta, we provide individualized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each client. We also have a full-time staff of counselors and therapists who are dedicated to helping our clients succeed in recovery. If you’re looking for a local recovery center that can help you stay sober this summer, contact us today.
Myths about addiction are dangerous for everybody involved because they can make treatment for addiction and recovery harder. It’s important to separate fact from fiction in order to clear up any and all harmful misconceptions. Debunking these myths about addiction relieves shame and encourages more empathy in the public consciousness, as well as encourages those needing assistance to seek out drug counseling and addiction treatment centers.
Top Myths About Addiction
1) Addicts Are Bad People
Addicts aren’t “bad people.” This myth is built on a fear-based stigma that promotes judgment over compassion. In fact, one of the most difficult initial hurdles is processing the shame addicts often feel about their addiction. The black-and-white myths about addiction have contributed heavily to the widespread belief that addicts are bad people. Numerous media outlets have spread the false notion that addicts are egotistical, helpless, and uncontrollable. This assumption may be born from fear and a lack of understanding about addiction, especially considering how easy it is to judge something and someone without any prior experience.
People whose lives have been touched by alcohol abuse or drug addiction have firsthand experience with the powerful hold a substance can have on a person. Media outlets are unhelpful in dispelling myths about addiction because they are more likely to highlight a sensationalized article about drug or alcohol addiction than a positive anti-stigma feature for effective addiction treatment centers and outreach initiatives. Debunking this myth is important to reduce the stigma against addicts because it takes an incorrect moral stance that makes it hard for someone to seek out help without fear of judgment.
2) Addiction is a Choice
This myth goes hand in hand with the incorrect assumption that addicts are “bad people.” The notion of addiction being a choice stems from the popularized false belief that addiction is a character flaw. This falsehood implies that if you struggle with alcoholism or drug addiction, then you must be reckless or weak-willed. This misconception influences how addicts view themselves and how family members view addicted loved ones, which leads to shame and guilt festering, causing an addiction to worsen. Abusing substances can also result in mental health issues as well, further fueling alcohol and drug addictions.
Addiction is a chronic disease with recognizable physical and psychological symptoms: It is not something a person chooses. Several socioeconomic factors may also play a role in addiction risk, but these factors are often out of one’s control. Addiction can be used as a way to suppress or cope with one’s trauma, abuse, mental health issues, or difficult circumstances.
In fact, alcohol use disorders and substance use disorders are recognized as mental health conditions. The “addiction is a choice” myth is actively harmful to individuals because of its negative moral stance that hurts rather than helps.
3) You Must Hit Rock Bottom Before Seeking Treatment
Like all of the myths thus far, the “rock bottom’ myth has serious repercussions that enforce a counterproductive course of action…if any action at all. The implication that a person is powerless to seek treatment until they’ve lost all their resources or support networks directly suggests one has to lose everything in order for care to be effective.
Furthermore, detoxing from substances due to chemical dependency is an incredibly unpleasant process with dangerous withdrawal symptoms that are worsened the longer a person waits. The “rock bottom” concept isn’t a medical term and doesn’t apply to other medical issues such as cancer or diabetes, so it should never be in the conversation when encouraging recovery.
4) Treatment Facilities Are Full of Criminals
False. This is a sentiment born out of a judgmental intolerance for those in recovery. Addiction can lead many people to make poor decisions. While a few of these behaviors might be against the law and give the victim a criminal record, it is essential to keep in mind that addiction is a disease that attacks the chemicals in the brain. The prefrontal cortex is the most affected by addiction because it is responsible for decision-making, critical thinking, and impulse control. Committing a crime and being addicted to substances do not go hand in hand.
5) Alcohol Addiction Isn’t As Serious as Drug Addiction
This is a myth because all types of addiction are dangerous to a person’s mental and physical health regardless of the substance. It’s a harmful ideology because society encourages excessive alcohol consumption during social events. Prolonged alcohol abuse can lead to serious health complications, overdose, and even death in the same way that heroin or opioid addiction can.
Alcohol addiction, unfortunately, relies on people’s negative opinions of drug addiction. Alcohol is everywhere because it’s generally easier to legally acquire than drugs and most gatherings will have some type of alcoholic beverage present. This means people are less likely to seek alcohol addiction treatment because alcohol abuse is seen as more “acceptable” and not as harmful as drug abuse.
6) You Can’t Be an Addict if You Have a Full-Time Job
This statement is related to the myth of the “functioning addict.” A functioning addict is a person (typically middle-aged) with a high substance tolerance and long job history that doesn’t raise any red flags for employers. Even though this person seemingly completes tasks at a sufficient level while using, it doesn’t mean that their life isn’t being affected in a less obvious way. In no way is being a functioning addict healthy.
In fact, experiencing functional addiction is so common that it is categorized as a subtype of addiction that requires early treatment for a better chance of recovery. The media portrays people with substance abuse disorders as unemployed, weak-willed, and criminal, which means a functioning addict breaks the stereotype and makes it much harder for them to recognize their own addiction. Because of this, it is absolutely possible to be an addict with a full-time job.
7) If Someone Close to You Was an Addict, You’d Know
No, you wouldn’t always know. Because some people feel a great deal of shame about their substance abuse they often hide it. Deception is unfortunately a major part of substance abuse. For the most part, people don’t want to lie so they typically omit or sidestep relevant information that they feel will get them judged or punished by their loved ones.
However, this doesn’t mean loved ones won’t intuitively know something is ‘off’ or ‘different.’ Too often loved ones ignore their instincts and rationalize away an addict’s lies because they subconsciously want to avoid the conflict acknowledging addiction will cause. If someone’s gut instinct is telling them that there is something wrong with their loved one, then that means something is up. Parents and spouses are typically the first to instinctually notice changes in baseline behavior changes in their child or partner. You wouldn’t know exactly what has changed, but you’d know they’re omitting something.
8) The Same Treatment Plan Works for Everyone
Treatment isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Because each person’s experience is different, that means there are unique factors that affect the risk of addiction per person. We’ve already established that a substance abuse disorder depends partly on genetics, a person’s environment, socioeconomic status, and mental health. These varying factors make it impossible to apply the same standard of treatment to everyone.
Everyone entering treatment (at the very beginning) receives a clinical assessment in order to determine the best course of action for a person. From there, professionals will work with the person to design an effective treatment plan that is tailored to their medical history, substance habits, mental health, and goals for recovery. It’s a specialized plan unique to every person.
In fact, there are different types of treatment programs available to combat this very issue: inpatient treatment, residential programs, outpatient counseling, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), outpatient/intensive outpatient programs in Atlanta, and other treatment programs. To summarize, this is a myth because no two people’s experiences with substances are the same and it is actively harmful to apply a one-size-fits-all approach to specialized care.
9) Once Treatment Is Complete, Your Recovery Is Over
Completing rehabilitation is a major step, but continuing supported treatment is crucial to avoid relapsing. Specifically, recovery is a never-ending process and patients must continuously adjust to what their lives offer and have support throughout. Therefore, it’s important to reach out after rehab through an alumni program, sober living, and aftercare.
To overcome the challenges of addiction, patients must have the lifelong commitment it takes to achieve total sobriety and overall wellness. The specific treatment plan that is developed always includes a plan for after the rehabilitative process is over. But it’s also important to know that many people fail to remain sober after drug and alcohol rehab. Recovery will never be a straight-line process. In most cases, these relapses occur because proper support wasn’t maintained for triggers. In conclusion, it’s a myth to say that recovery is finite.
Break The Stigma on These Myths About Addiction: Find Help at Inner Voyage
At Inner Voyage Recovery Center near in Woodstock, near Atlanta, Georgia our priority is creating a kind, caring, and compassionate environment where you feel connected and safe to focus on your recovery goals. We want to develop a real relationship with you, and we want you to foster a community with those around you. We provide a place to be you with no judgment while giving you the tools and knowledge you need to cope with your recovery long term. Many of our team members are in recovery themselves and have firsthand knowledge of the healing process.
Our treatment team works together to provide a custom individualized treatment plan that will allow each person to have the greatest opportunity for long-term peace, freedom, and ultimately purposeful lives. We also offer optional full-service, Christian faith-based recovery programs. A life of sobriety is the goal for every person who walks through our doors and every team member is passionate about helping you achieve that goal. So, whether you are searching for “PHP program near me” or simply “outpatient addiction treatment”, contact us today to begin your journey.
Mon - Fri 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
