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Anti-anxiety medication

Navigating Anxiety, PTSD, and Trauma with the Right Anti-Anxiety Medication

Written by Emily Rowe, LMSW on . Posted in Recovery.

Mental health disorders can be crippling. If you are struggling with one, you may be unsure what to do to stop it. Anxiety can become such a normal part of your life that it may even feel like it is one of your defining characteristics. It does not have to be that way, though. With the help of the right medication and treatment, you may find significant relief. There are various types of anxiety, and there is likely an anti-anxiety medication that could help you.

The first step in understanding your anxiety is to work with a therapist who can provide an evaluation to get a good idea of what could be happening to you. Keep in mind that there is help for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and trauma, that can improve your overall health and quality of life. The key is getting in to get treatment for it.

By understanding the different types of anxiety and then determining the right treatment, including anti-anxiety medication and holistic care, you can move forward with the life you desire. A good place to start is the Inner Voyage Recovery Center in Atlanta, GA.

What Types of Mental Health Condition Do You Have?

Mental health conditions develop for lots of reasons. In some situations, they occur as a result of environmental exposure. What you see and experience in your lifetime can certainly cause changes in your mental health. This is a direct cause of PTSD. When trauma occurs that the brain cannot deal with properly, it can lead to the onset of PTSD. Trauma is not necessarily one of the types of anxiety itself, but it can directly lead to this. Other times, anxiety is brought on by a variety of factors. Some people are predisposed to have it. That does not mean you have to have it if a family member does, but it may mean you are more likely to experience it if you have events that bring it on.

What are the types of anxiety, then? Generalized anxiety disorder is the most commonly used term. It represents people who are struggling with anxiety that could be brought on by various scenarios and is not directly triggered by one experience. Others have a condition like health anxiety. This is brought on by exposure to health risks, medical care, or, in some situations, health conditions in other people. Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder brought on by a fear of something happening if a person leaves their home.

Panic disorder is an extension of the complexity of anxiety disorders. A person may experience anxious thoughts and feelings that spiral out of control, impacting their physical and mental well-being. Many people experience this, and sometimes there is no real understanding of why it happens.

How Can Anxiety Be Treated?

Multiple options exist for treating anxiety. There is not one treatment that works for everyone. However, for many people, there is help available that can drastically improve their quality of life.

Medications

Anti-anxiety medication is available and can be one of the treatment options our doctors recommend. The specific type of anti-anxiety medication for you is likely to be one that can help with the type of symptoms you have. Some of the first types prescribed tend to help those with generalized anxiety disorder. They include serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also known as SSRIs. Some examples of these include Laxapro®, Prozac®, and Celexa®.

For more significant symptoms, your doctor may use benzodiazepines. These drugs also carry some risk of dependency. As a result, your doctor may only recommend using them for a short period of time. Some examples include XANAX®, Valium, and Ativan®.

Another type of anti-anxiety medication is the use of tricyclic antidepressants. These drugs are often used to treat people who have depression and anxiety. They tend to have fewer side effects. Examples of these medications include Elavil and Pamelor™. Your doctor may also prescribe other drugs to treat anxiety. For example, gabapentin for anxiety is sometimes prescribed as an off-label treatment. That means that while it is not commonly or FDA-approved for anxiety, it can help.

Holistic Therapy

Anti-anxiety medication can be quite beneficial. Yet, they are just one example of a treatment option. Most often, your doctor will also recommend trying to determine why you have anxiety in the first place. That is, there may be routes to take to relieve the underlying cause of your anxiety. There may also be opportunities for you to find ways to manage your symptoms with fewer complications better.

For example, your doctor is likely to recommend talk therapy. This is an important part of nearly all types of anxiety treatment. During talk therapy, your therapist can help pinpoint how your brain processes information around you. You will learn how to spot moments of negative thoughts that are likely untrue but that impact the way you feel. Your doctor may also provide support in reducing symptoms. For example, when you begin to feel anxious thoughts, you’ll learn how to steer clear of them and how to reduce their negative impact.

If trauma is an underlying factor in your anxiety, your doctor can help you work through what happened and provide a route for finding relief. In PTSD treatment, the goal is never to relive what happened to you. However, it may be possible to change the way your brain processes that information so that you feel fewer of the PTSD symptoms when there is a trigger that causes you to think about that trauma.

Customized Care Is Critical in These Situations

By far, what is most important in each of these types of anxiety or mental health disorders is receiving individualized care for your needs. Understanding what is happening in your brain isn’t simple to do. With the help of well-trained professionals, the right holistic care, therapy, and anti-anxiety medication, you can move forward with your life without feeling limited by anxiety, trauma, or PTSD.

To learn more about how you can recover from these challenges, reach out toInner Voyage Recovery Center in Atlanta, GA. With the help of trusted, compassionate professionals there, you can begin to find the best way forward for your treatment and your needs. Call 470-460-8437 now to learn more.

trauma

Uncovering the Link Between Trauma and Health

Written by Emily Rowe, LMSW on . Posted in Recovery.

Traumatic experiences can impact the way we live our daily lives. Whether the trauma stems from an individual experience or multiple instances, your life is drastically changed because of it. Not only do traumatic experiences shape the way we see the world and others, but they can also influence the ways we see ourselves. Going through life with the weight of trauma on your back can affect a person’s mental and physical health.

Read ahead to find out more about the link between trauma and health.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is the lasting response to living through a stressful or disturbing event. Trauma can be a result of something that happened only one time, multiple times, or over a period of time. When faced with a traumatic event, some might find it challenging to find a proper way to respond. While there is no age requirement for traumatic experiences, the way a person responds to trauma is not an indication of how strong they are.

These experiences and events can lead to various long-lasting disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Acute stress disorder (ASD), or anxiety and depression. If left unaddressed, people might find it challenging to live their daily lives. Some might even find unhealthy ways to cope with the effects of a traumatic event. Examples of these harmful coping mechanisms include substance use and distancing themselves from others.

Symptoms of Trauma

The effects of trauma range depending on the individual. Through trauma therapy and other forms of help, some people find healthy ways to take care of their health and well-being. However, those who do not seek help or attempt to work through their trauma can experience any of the following symptoms.

Sleep Disorders – Unresolved trauma can result in sleep disorders and disruptions. Some individuals might experience insomnia, a common sleep disorder that makes it challenging for individuals to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get good quality sleep.

Some might have trouble sleeping because of nightmares or thoughts of the traumatic event.

Anxiety – Another common symptom of trauma is anxiety. A person with trauma might have a difficult time completing daily tasks. They might experience social anxiety or general anxiety. They might also find themselves constantly worried and uneasy.

Avoidance – Trauma can cause a person to avoid people and places that they might otherwise enjoy.

How Does Trauma Impact Mental Health?

There are a number of ways that trauma can impact mental health. Aside from anxiety and depression, the impacts of traumatic experiences can affect a person in multiple areas of their lives. Here are some of the most common ways that trauma can impact a person’s mental health.

Behavioral Issues

Behavioral issues are prominent in those who experience childhood trauma. Children can begin to engage in unusual behaviors such as difficulty paying attention in school, anger outbursts, and rebellion. When childhood trauma is carried over into adulthood, it can worsen.

Behavioral issues in adulthood can result in significant emotional mishandling. These individuals might find it easier to find alternate coping methods such as excessive alcohol or substance use, avoidance, or emotional outbursts with others.

Developing Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Among other types of stress disorders, unaddressed trauma can result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health condition that can impact a person’s life in several ways. The symptoms of PTSD affect every person in a different way. However, specific triggers or reminders of the traumatic event can make it difficult to live a regular life.

PTSD carries a massive range of symptoms, including the following.

  • Anger and aggression
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Low self-image
  • Alienation

How Does Trauma Impact Physical Health?

Not only does trauma have a negative impact on one’s mental health, but it can also be severely damaging to a person’s physical health. One of trauma’s primary strengths is that it reduces a person’s ability to manage stress. Here are a few ways that this is damaging to physical health.

Heightened Stress Response

High stress levels are notorious for having adverse effects on physical health. This becomes even more dangerous when the body has become programmed to overreact over the most minor things. When a person has experienced trauma, their bodies do not respond well to stress.

This heightened response causes more adrenaline to be produced, which speeds up the heart rate and makes it more difficult to calm down. Stress disrupts all of the body’s processes as it decides whether to fight or flight. When minor stressors trigger this type of massive response, it becomes detrimental to overall health in the long run.

Heightened Chance of Chronic Health Problems

According to this article by UC San Francisco, unaddressed trauma is the hidden cause of most preventable illnesses. Trauma, especially in childhood, is linked to increased rates of several health issues, such as depression and suicide.

When a person goes their entire life without receiving help for their trauma, they risk a heightened chance of worsened symptoms if they develop a chronic illness.

When a person is stressed easily and often, it puts a lot of pressure on their body’s systems. Constant strain on the heart can lead to problems with the heart. Similarly, trauma can play a part in the progression and development of the following illnesses.

  • Lung disease,
  • Kidney disease,
  • Stoke,
  • Diabetes.

Looking For Trauma Therapy in Atlanta, GA? Contact Inner Voyage Recovery Center

Trauma can affect your life in numerous ways if we try to ignore it. At Inner Voyage Recovery Center, we take a compassionate approach to trauma therapy and treatment. We understand how much events of the past can impact your future.

If you are looking for trauma therapy in Atlanta, GA, look no further than Inner Voyage Recovery Center. Our team of professionals are knowledgeable and experienced in treating trauma disorders. We are eager to help you address and move on from your past issues. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you or to take a tour of our facility.

What are roxies?

What Are Roxies?

Written by Emily Rowe, LMSW on . Posted in Addiction, Recovery.

They are sometimes referred to as roxies or blues. They can ease pain and improve lives – but they can also have devastating effects when used improperly. What are roxies, and what do you need to know about them to keep yourself and your loved ones safe?    

What Are Roxies?

Roxies is a slang term for Roxicodone, which is a prescription medication that is most commonly used to treat people who have been experiencing moderate to severe pain. Roxicodone is usually taken by mouth in tablet form. The medication is sold in 15 mg and 30 mg versions. It may sometimes be administered as a liquid.

Roxicodone is a brand name. The analgesic (painkilling) substance in Roxicodone is oxycodone hydrochloride, which is a semi-synthetic opioid. In other words, the answer to the question “What are roxies?” is that they are oxycodone pills.

Roxies are very similar to OxyContin, which is another brand-name medication that contains oxycodone. One of the primary differences between these two medications is that OxyContin is a controlled-release medication that is designed to act for an extended period, while the effects of roxies are typically felt more quickly, but don’t last as long. 

Like other opioids, roxies can reduce pain, improve mood, and cause a sense of euphoric relaxation. When someone is experiencing pain due to a medical concern, these effects can be extremely beneficial. Unfortunately, they also make roxies popular among people who are seeking a recreational high.

What Are the Effects of Roxie Abuse?

Now that we’ve answered the question, “What are roxies?” let’s talk about what can happen when someone uses them improperly. People who abuse roxies can usually be divided into two general categories:

  • People who received a prescription for Roxicodone from a licensed physician, initially took the medication as directed, but then began to take it more frequently or in larger doses than they were supposed to
  • People who were never prescribed roxies, received them from an illicit source, and began taking them either to self-medicate or simply to get high

No matter why a person begins to abuse roxies, this behavior puts them at risk for considerable harm. Here are examples of the many negative effects that can result from Roxicodone abuse:

  • Cognitive impairments
  • Liver damage
  • Slowed heart rate and breathing
  • Physical harm due to impaired judgement and coordination
  • Problems in school and at work
  • Academic failure
  • Job loss
  • Conflicts within relationships
  • Being arrested and jailed
  • Overdose
  • Death

Are Roxies Addictive?

In addition to causing the effects listed in the previous section, roxie abuse can also lead to addiction. When a pattern of substance abuse turns into an addiction, this means that the individual has begun to lose control of their ability to limit the amount and frequency of their drug use. 

The following signs may indicate that you or someone you care about has become addicted to roxies:

  • Intense cravings for roxies
  • Lying to doctors about symptoms in order to get prescriptions for Roxicodone
  • Acquiring Roxicodone that was prescribed to someone else
  • Significant changes in mood, attitude, and energy level
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Unexplained financial difficulties
  • Withdrawing from family and friends
  • Frequently missing school or work, or failing to meet other important responsibilities
  • Combining roxies with alcohol or other drugs
  • Becoming agitated or physically ill when unable to use roxies
  • Continuing to use roxies even after incurring physical, psychological, or social harm due to prior use
  • Spending an inordinate amount of time thinking about, using, and recovering from the effects of roxies
  • Needing to use larger amounts of roxies to experience the desired effects

Untreated roxie addiction can also increase a person’s risk for anxiety, depression, and a variety of additional co-occurring mental health disorders. But when someone gets effective care from a reputable provider, they can end their roxie abuse and achieve successful recovery.

What Happens in Treatment?

There is no single, standard form of addiction treatment that works for everyone. When you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, what’s most important is that you focus on finding the treatment provider whose services align with your needs and expectations, or with those of your loved one.

If you get help in an outpatient treatment facility, one of the first steps will be to determine which level or levels of care are right for you. At Inner Voyage Recovery Center, your options include:

  • Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
  • Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
  • Outpatient rehab
  • Young adult program

Within each of these programs, you may have the opportunity to take part in a variety of therapeutic activities. Therapy can help you make the behavioral and lifestyle changes that will support long-term recovery. The potential benefits of therapy include:

  • Learning about the disease of addiction and the process of recovery
  • Identifying your triggers (circumstances that can push you back into roxie abuse)
  • Developing the ability to respond to triggers in a healthy manner
  • Practicing conflict resolution and stress management skills
  • Understanding how to rebuild relationships that were damaged by your roxie abuse
  • Discovering healthy ways to spend the time that you previously devoted to roxie abuse
  • Sharing support with others who are also walking the path of recovery

Find Treatment for Roxicodone Addiction Near Atlanta, GA

Inner Voyage Recovery Center is a premier provider of customized outpatient care for adults who have become addicted to Roxicodone and other substances. We also treat individuals whose struggles with addiction are accompanied by certain co-occurring mental health concerns. Our center near Atlanta, Georgia, is a welcoming and compassionate environment where you can get personalized help from a team of dedicated professionals. 

The day you enter treatment at Inner Voyage Recovery Center, you take a significant step toward a much healthier future. To learn more about our programs and services or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our admissions page or call us at your earliest convenience.

A woman wondering how to help an alcoholic spouse.

How to Help an Alcoholic Spouse

Written by Emily Rowe, LMSW on . Posted in Alcohol Rehab, Recovery.

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:

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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:

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

A man dealing with the signs and symptoms of being a high functioning alcoholic.

Signs & Symptoms of High-Functioning Alcoholism

Written by Emily Rowe, LMSW on . Posted in Alcohol Rehab, Recovery.

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.

Struggling with Sobriety? Here’s How to Safeguard Your Recovery in the Summer

Written by Emily Rowe, LMSW on . Posted in Recovery.

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.

Inner Voyage prepares you to experience recovery, even if you’ve relapsed in the past, and to help you re-enter the world as your healed self. Call today to begin your Inner Voyage journey.

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