Sleeping Pill Addiction Treatment

Wellbutrin is an FDA-approved antidepressant that treats depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. Under the brand name Zyban, the drug reduces nicotine cravings and eases withdrawal symptoms to help people quit smoking.

It’s an oral medicine that balances neurotransmitter levels in the brain to boost the user’s mood and overall mental health. When taken in high doses, Wellbutrin produces effects similar to those of recreational drugs like cocaine. For this reason, some people abuse the drug leading to an addiction.

Causes of Wellbutrin Addiction

According to a CDC report, 13.2% of people aged 18 and above uses antidepressants. Most doctors will advise their patients to take the drug for about six months or until the depressive symptoms are gone. However, some users may choose to continue using the medicine to enjoy the effects even after the prescribed period. Others will choose to take the medication in increased dosage or at closer intervals to get high. Over time, they end up becoming dependent on the medication.

Wellbutrin increases the concentration of dopamine in the brain, which improves mood and suppresses depression symptoms. Hence, most people abuse the drug in an attempt to hasten the mood boost effect. Others choose to use the drug for recreational purposes. The manufacturer recommends that users swallow the medicine whole.

On the contrary, some users chew the pill or crush and snort the powder. Others dissolve the drug in water and inject it into the body. When you swallow the pills whole, they will have to go through the digestive tract, which reduces the speed at which it reaches the bloodstream, minimizing the effects. If you snort or inject the drug, you introduce it directly into the bloodstream. Due to the high level of the drug in your body, you risk becoming addicted and suffering an overdose.

Signs of Wellbutrin Addiction

Always be on the lookout for drug abuse signs if you or your loved ones take Wellbutrin. The addiction risk is even higher for people who heavily drink alcohol or those with a history of drug abuse. Even people who don’t intend to abuse the drug may become addicted when they use it for too long.

Note that many cocaine users will go for Wellbutrin when they can’t get access to enough cocaine. This is because the prescription drug is easy to obtain and also a cheaper alternative. The medication produces a similar stimulant effect to that of cocaine but at a lower intensity.

After abusing the drug, some people begin to show signs of elevated mood. They become more talkative than usual, and they show signs of increased energy and activity. If someone is addicted to Wellbutrin, they will have trouble sleeping and stay awake for long hours. Others will show a sudden increase in self-esteem. It also leads to loss of appetite and euphoria.

Additional Signs & Symptoms

When someone becomes addicted, they begin to seek prescriptions from several doctors. Others will try sourcing the drug from illegal websites and store them in unlabeled containers. Wellbutrin addiction could also lead to loss of family, friendships, and other relationships. Such people begin to enjoy more time alone, taking the drug and enjoying the effects. As a result, most of them are highly likely to neglect family responsibilities.

Addiction can also make you lose your job or perform poorly at school. The drug won’t let you concentrate on schoolwork or your career as you used to. As the urge to use the drug grows, it creates a continuous need for the medication, so most people spend all their money acquiring it. Other common symptoms of Wellbutrin addiction include:

• Constipation
• Muscle pain
• Hallucinations
• Seizure
• Decreased sex drive
• Delusions
• Aggression

Watch out for such signs, and seek medical help as soon as possible. Note that, if a person becomes so addicted to the drug, such that they consume it at a higher dose, it could lead to cardiovascular collapse, which causes death. Though death-related cases due to Wellbutrin abuse are limited, there are still 0.5% reported cases of death due to an overdose.

Wellbutrin Addiction Treatment

Understanding Wellbutrin addiction symptoms paves the way for users to seek treatment. Note that you should never attempt quitting the drug without medical assistance since it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. When you abruptly stop taking the medication, you might begin to experience:

• Extreme agitation
• Suicidal thoughts
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Excessive sweating
• Nausea
• Irritability

The symptoms will vary based on the level of addiction. To avoid such issues, it’s a good idea that you seek help from a rehab facility like Granite Recovery Centers. In such institutions, you will interact with specialists who will help treat the addiction and address any underlying issue that could trigger drug abuse. Wellbutrin treatment process may involve the following.

Medical Detoxification

At Granite Recovery Centers, you will undergo a safe medical detox program to eliminate toxins in your body. Keep in mind that every patient’s detox need is unique. The doctor begins by first conducting a thorough examination to assess the drug level in the blood and determine the amount of medication needed for detox. You may also need to undergo a dual diagnosis to help understand whether various mental issues have noticeable impacts on the addiction. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

The specialists can administer other medications to stabilize the patient and minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms. The doctor will also inform you what the detox process entails in preparation for treatment. After detoxing, you will continue with therapy to help you cope with the situation. You can enroll in some of the following treatment programs.

Inpatient Program

For patients with high Wellbutrin addiction levels, you might need to consider the inpatient treatment program. You live within the rehab center for close monitoring and intensive care within the facility. This treatment plan allows you to work on your recovery away from the outside world’s everyday temptations. Granite Recovery Center provides a supportive environment where addicts receive the skills and insights needed to stay away from drugs and lead a sober life.

The treatment length will vary from one patient to another. You will need around three to 10 days for detox, followed by 30 to 90 days of therapy sessions. Patients should follow a specific schedule that includes physical exercises, study, and individual and group psychotherapy sessions during this period. The main goal here is to help patients understand the triggers and causes of their addiction and adopt new approaches to help them remain substance-free throughout the treatment and beyond.

Within the facility, you will interact with other people struggling with the same issue as you. You can share insights and work together towards recovery. Based on your progress and ability to meet goals, your doctor will decide when you are free to move to a less intensive treatment program.

Outpatient Program

If your addiction level isn’t extremely severe, the doctor may advise you to opt for an outpatient program. For this option, you stay at home and only come to the rehab facility for treatment several days a week based on the scheduled appointments. Patients are likely to achieve long-lasting sobriety through an outpatient treatment plan just like the inpatient one.

Note that the path of recovery from drug addiction can be very challenging. In case you finish the inpatient treatment but you still feel that you need professional support and counseling, enroll in an outpatient treatment program. A specialist will guide you on how to transition from the rehab facility into everyday life safely.

The treatment involves holistic and individual therapies, skills-building sessions, and a 12-step rehab program. During the sessions, you will discuss with your therapist to identify the addiction problem’s root cause. You will then learn some behavioral modification techniques that will help you refrain from drug misuse.

For this option, you can go to work or attend school as you work on recovery. Since you have more freedom, you might need to undergo regular screening to ensure credibility. Note that drug addiction treatment is a continuous process, and you will only succeed if you consistently honor your outpatient treatment appointments.

Partial Hospitalization Program

If you still need intensive care to treat Wellbutrin addiction but don’t wish to stay within the facility, you can opt for the partial hospitalization program. This option works well for patients with great support from their family members. Instead of residing within the rehab facility, you come in for treatment sessions several hours a day and head home later.

Most times, the treatment runs for five days each week. Together with your therapist, you will develop a personalized plan to guide you through recovery. You still have access to group therapy, where you can communicate and share opinions with others. If you have issues that you feel uncomfortable sharing in a group, you will hold face-to-face meetings with your therapist to address such concerns.

If you are struggling with Wellbutrin addiction and other mental health conditions, you will receive medication to help you cope with the situation. A psychiatrist will guide you on how to manage the drugs better to avoid misuse. Note that drug addiction also affects people around the patient. During the partial hospitalization program, you will undergo family therapy sessions to teach your loved ones how to better cope with your condition. They will also learn how to offer you better support to speed recovery.

Sober Living Homes

Most patients find it hard to adjust to their daily lives after leaving the rehab center. Once you complete the inpatient treatment, you can choose to reside in sober living homes for a while till you fully recover. These are houses designated for people struggling with addiction. Although you might not get the same care level as in an inpatient facility, a sober living home environment promotes healthy coping skills and habits.

You will live along with other people who share similar experiences and goals, which helps reduce loneliness, an inherent part of the addiction cycle. When using the drug, you may have cut out friends or withdrew from family members due to the fear of judgment or rejection. In sober living homes, you will create better relationships, so you have someone to confide in if you face difficulties during recovery.

When someone becomes addicted to drugs, they might disengage from basic skills more often than not. In sober living homes, you will try to regain various skills like exercising, eating healthy, cleaning, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. You have a chance to apply for jobs, and because you are living in shared spaces, you will learn some financial and social skills.

Also, these homes offer more independence and control over the recovery process, giving patients a more positive feeling towards the treatment. You have a chance to do all the things you enjoy, provided that you make responsible choices.

You will still undergo regular and random drug testing to ensure complete abstinence. Besides the peer-to-peer support, the rehab center will offer therapy sessions as well. You can reach out to your doctor for advice if need be. This is the last part of Wellbutrin addiction treatment, and it promotes lifelong sobriety.

Summing Up

Consuming high Wellbutrin dosage can change how your body functions making it hard to stay away from the drug. With time, you might become addicted and begin to abuse the drug. Note that overcoming any form of drug addiction requires multiple episodes of treatment. If you or your family member struggles with Wellbutrin or any other substance addiction, you can seek help from us at Granite Recovery Centers. Our facilities aim to provide patients with a smooth transition into a purposeful, independent, and drug-free life.

After treatment, your specialist will advise you on the best care program that provides the proper support. Our rehab center even has an alumni program that allows the patients to keep in touch, maintain friendships and strengthen their recovery. With the appropriate treatment, professional therapies, and aftercare programs, soon, you will regain freedom from Wellbutrin addiction.

Vicodin may seem innocuous enough when your doctor prescribes it to you after a surgery or when you’re diagnosed with chronic pain. However, after time, you may start to rely on the drug to feel normal. This dependence can come with some serious side effects. You may be groggy and unable to function. It can even lead to legal troubles. When you notice that you are struggling with your Vicodin usage, it’s time to take action. Here are some Vicodin addiction treatment options and what to expect after treatment.

About Vicodin

Vicodin is a medicine used to treat mild to moderate pain with hydrocodone and acetaminophen as the active ingredients. Hydrocodone is an opioid. It is a highly prescribed medication around the world. Vicodin comes in pill form or liquid form with the liquid form being the more concentrated option. It generally comes with either 5 mg, 7.5 mg or 10 mg of hydrocodone. It should be eaten with food for people who suffer from stomach issues.

Side effects of Vicodin include:

• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Constipation

On rare occasions, you may experience more problematic side effects, such as sleep apnea or seizures. If this happens, tell your doctor immediately. The risk of serious side effects is low.

Vicodin Addiction

Vicodin definitely has the potential for abuse and addiction, especially for people with other addiction issues. One of the main ingredients of Vicodin is hydrocodone, which is an addictive substance. Hydrocodone is a man-made opioid that stimulates the same pleasure points in the brain as heroin. People who start with Vicodin may graduate to more intense opioids.

Signs of Vicodin Abuse

There are a number of ways to tell that you are starting to abuse Vicodin. If you recognize several of the signs in yourself, it’s time to take action. Here are some of the signs of abuse:

1. Tolerance
   It’s normal for a drug to not work as well after an extended period of time. This is a sign that your body is not responding to the drug as it did before due to developing a tolerance. You may have to start taking more in order to feel the effects. If you start taking more without getting approval from your doctor, this is considered misuse.

2. Taking Drug Outside of Prescription
   Vicodin is prescribed to many people. Your doctor prescribes a certain dosage for a reason, and you should stick to it. If you are told to take a certain dose twice a day, you should only take it those two times a day.

3. Cravings
   It’s a bad sign when you find yourself constantly craving Vicodin. If you start thinking about it while at work or doing other daily activities, it’s a serious indication of a problem. Rather than satisfying those cravings, listen to your body telling you that you are crossing the line from normal use to something more intense.

4. Financial or Legal Trouble
   When you allow your Vicodin use to impact your future by taking up all of your money or leading to a DUI, you will be forced to address these issues to any future employer and the people in your life. It’s even more of a sign of a problem when you continue to use it even after you get arrested. Let any legal ramifications be a serious warning sign and take action to help yourself.

5. Nodding Off
   One of the main signs that someone is using too much Vicodin is nodding off. You may notice your loved one sleeping at inappropriate times, too, because Vicodin is a depressant and will make the user feel sleepy. It can even get to the point where they can’t properly get through their daily responsibilities.

Vicodin and Alcohol

Vicodin by itself usually isn’t too debilitating. However, mixing it with alcohol can make it especially dangerous. Both Vicodin and alcohol contain depressant properties. When combined, they can reduce respiratory function to the point of being dangerous. You don’t want to end up falling asleep and not waking up. Also, Vicodin enhances the effects of alcohol on the body. A person taking Vicodin may get drunk much faster than normal when they are on Vicodin. This means that they can get very drunk and hurt themselves before they realize it, and they are more dangerous behind the wheel than if they had just been drinking.

Mixing Vicodin and alcohol is also worse for your body. It will create negative effects on your heart and liver more quickly than alcohol alone.

Vicodin Withdrawal

You can absolutely experience withdrawal from Vicodin. If you talk to your doctor in advance, they will likely reduce the dosage of the pill to help wean you off of it and reduce potential withdrawal symptoms. In time, you won’t need it anymore. If you go cold turkey, it may be more difficult. The withdrawal symptoms are not so severe as to cause serious conditions or death. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Vicodin Treatment Options

You have options if you are seeking treatment for a Vicodin addiction. The key is to find the option that is best for you. Here are just some of the options available to you.

Rehabilitation

One of the best treatment options is inpatient rehabilitation. With this option, you will stay in a facility for an extended period of time while you detox and deal with the root of your addiction issues with the help of professional medical staff. You may have to make accommodations at home and at work for the time you are in rehab. Also, rehabilitation is on the expensive side. Talk to your insurance provider about what options you have, or talk to a social worker about state-funded options. By enrolling in comprehensive treatment, you can safely rid your body of the drug and learn resources to deal with cravings and triggers. Facilities like Granite Recovery Centers provide evidence-backed treatment to help patients prevent relapse and maintain long-term sobriety.

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings are a safe space for people who suffer from addiction to narcotics, and it can be a great way for people to find support. There are 12-step programs available for free in most cities and towns. You can visit a meeting as often as you’d like to find support for your goal of sobriety. There will be other people there who understand what you’re going through, and you’ll be able to express yourself to a number of people who understand.

Therapy

Many people who suffer from addiction also suffer from depression, anxiety, trauma, or another emotional disorder. To get to the bottom of the issue at hand, a therapist can help. You can talk to them about your addiction issues and the other things happening in your life, both past and present. Most therapists use a specific theory to guide the treatment. Some of those theories include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of talk therapy that identifies your triggers. Triggers are things that make you want to reach for the Vicodin bottle against your better judgment. Once you identify your triggers and other patterns, you can make an effort to change.
• Rational Emotive Behavior Theory: This is a theory that emphasizes mind over matter, indicating that it’s important for positive thoughts to overpower other thoughts. A therapist will help teach you how to replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts. The idea is that positive actions will happen as you train your mind to avoid drug misuse.

Medication

While you don’t want to replace your Vicodin addiction with another medication addiction, taking a medication with a very low chance of addiction might be the best option for you. There are a number of medications that help prevent addiction by addressing emotional issues. Talk to your doctor about your addiction problems so that they know to prescribe something with an extremely low chance of addiction. There are also drugs specifically designed to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Holistic Treatments

Some people want to focus on alternative treatment methods. These treatments may utilize more emphasis on your connection to the universe and yourself. It may also incorporate things like meditation and cleansing practices to make the environment around you as positive as possible. This can be a good addition to traditional treatment methods.

Life After Treatment

When you get home from treatment, you may be off Vicodin. However, the pain may still be there. One of the first things you’ll have to do is look for alternative solutions to the pain problem that caused your Vicodin usage in the first place. Many people will turn toward holistic options. Others will turn to less addictive drugs. Still, others will try chiropractors or physical therapy. There are options, so don’t be afraid to explore alternatives. The point is to reduce your need for the actual substance.

You will also need to continue your care when you get home. Be sure to plan ongoing treatment with a therapist or support group. You should also work to develop a strong support system. Try encouraging your support system at home with family and friends. You also need to have faith in yourself and your recovery. This can be difficult if you experience any guilt about your addiction. However, you can learn to love yourself again. Try saying positive affirmations and celebrating yourself and your accomplishments. Avoid other substances and focus on your overall health to promote a clean environment and mindset. When you are healthy on the inside, you will want to be healthy on the outside as well.

Granite Recovery Centers

Anyone can come back from a Vicodin addiction. Do not think that admitting to your problem and getting help is a sign of weakness. It’s actually a sign of strength to take a journey to better yourself. Start your journey by talking to one of our professionals at Granite Recovery Centers. We are known for our success stories.

With professional help, you can take control of your life again. Get the right head start by taking some time to yourself to detox and undergo helpful therapies. There will still be work to do when you get back home, but you’ll have a sturdy foundation underneath you.

Trazodone is a generic medication that is most commonly used as an antidepressant, but it also has other uses as well. While Trazodone is not considered addictive, there are some people who find themselves experiencing cravings and having difficulties controlling their use. If you are finding it hard to control how much Trazodone you take, then you might want to consider addiction treatment options.

We will cover what Trazodone is, the common side effects, overdose symptoms, the most common sensation that people get addicted to, and treatment options to help you gain control over your usage.

What is Trazodone?

Trazodone is an antidepressant. This might surprise some people because of the many different conditions that it treats, but it is primarily formulated as an antidepressant. Much like other antidepressants, it is considered a serotonin modulator.

This means that the medication is responsible for increasing and balancing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin naturally exists in the brain and is associated with wellness and an overall good mood. It is commonly thought that those suffering from depression have lower levels of serotonin and that their brain reabsorbs serotonin too quickly. Medications like Trazodone seek to balance this to restore wellness.

What Does Trazodone Treat?

Trazodone is an antidepressant that is used to treat several conditions. It is most commonly prescribed for depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Anxiety and insomnia commonly occur alongside depression. Trazodone can help alleviate these symptoms to restore balance to your life.

Many people do not realize that trazodone is an antidepressant because it works so well on insomnia and anxiety. This medication works fairly quickly and makes you feel relaxed and calm. You might think that trazodone is a sedative due to this. Many people abuse trazodone for this sedating effect.

Trazodone is also sometimes prescribed for schizophrenia and to ease abnormal movements caused by other medications.

Trazodone Side Effects

Every medication is tested before going to market to see what side effects will occur. The truth is that nearly all medications have side effects, and it’s good to be informed about what can happen when you take your prescription. If any of these side effects or others occur while taking trazodone, then you should talk to your doctor to see what the next should be.

The most common trazodone side effects include:

• Unusual or bad tastes in your mouth
• Headache
• Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting
• Sudden changes in weight or appetite
• Nervousness
• Tiredness or weakness
• Feeling unsteady, dizzy, or disoriented when walking
• Changes in sexual ability or desire
• Confusion and difficulty remembering things

Remember that these are only the common side effects. If you experience a different symptom than the ones listed above, then you should still talk to your doctor. They can determine how to move forward to either limit or stop the side effect.

Trazodone Overdose

A trazodone overdose is very rare when taking the properly prescribed amount, but it can happen sometimes. This is especially true if you are taking other medications or supplements that also alter your serotonin levels. Those at the highest risk for a trazodone overdose are those who are using it recreationally or having difficulty controlling their use.

According to Medline, the most common signs of a trazodone overdose include:

• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Heartbeat changes
• Trouble breathing
• Painful erection that will not go away

Some of these symptoms, such as drowsiness or vomiting, are also common side effects of using a therapeutic dose of trazodone. Overdose symptoms are more severe. If you experience any of these symptoms or any other severe side effects, then speak to your prescriber or seek emergency medical assistance immediately.

Serotonin Syndrome

Serotonin syndrome is a severe and potentially fatal syndrome that can occur when you’re taking medications that increase your serotonin levels. Each medication has its own risk, and the chances of experiencing this syndrome is quite low as long as your doses have balance. Trazodone carries an exceptionally low risk in general.

While trazodone is one of the safest medications in this regard, it can still lead to serotonin syndrome if used in very high doses or combined with other medications that alter serotonin. NIH reports that the common symptoms of serotonin syndrome include dilated pupils, rapid heartbeat, muscle rigidity, and extreme agitation.

Just like with an overdose, you should talk to your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

Trazodone Withdrawal Symptoms

If you no longer want to take Trazodone, either because you want to take control of your use or you feel it’s no longer useful, then you may wish to stop taking the medication entirely. This can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms as your body readjusts to having less serotonin. We recommend that you work with your doctor when it’s time to discontinue trazodone.

The most common withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Trouble staying asleep
• Low mood

The withdrawal symptoms are mild-to-moderate for most people. At the same time, this can be very risky if you’re facing a trazodone addiction. You may want to suddenly stop using trazodone, which then puts you in a vulnerable position because the withdrawal symptoms can lead you to use more than before to avoid the discomfort.

If you are seeking to stop your trazodone use, whether you are using a therapeutic dose or facing an addiction, then you should connect with your doctor so that they can help with the process.

Medical Detox

As we covered above, trazodone can result in some uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop using the medication. This is because the medication alters your serotonin levels. If you stop using trazodone, then your brain needs time to adjust to no longer having the increased serotonin. A medical detox program can help during this process.

A medical detox program means that one of our doctors will monitor your mood, withdrawal symptoms, and anything else that changes as you discontinue trazodone. This can be an uncomfortable and vulnerable process. Our doctors will make it as comfortable as possible. A detox occurs by tapering your trazodone dose. The doctor will determine the proper tapering schedule and can adjust the schedule based on how you react. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Like with other substances, a medical detox only takes care of half the addiction issue. This removes the substance from your body, but your mind might still be craving trazodone. That’s why we recommend connecting with a therapist during this process. This will give you the extra support you need for abstinence from trazodone.

Outpatient Services

If you are facing a trazodone addiction and you’re ready to recover, then you will likely benefit from outpatient services. This encompasses two levels of care. You can choose either outpatient or intensive outpatient. Combining the two can also give you even more support.

Outpatient therapy usually consists of a weekly meeting that lasts one hour. You will meet with a licensed counselor who will talk to you about your addiction, cravings, and habits. He or she will then help challenge those thoughts while also teaching you healthy coping skills to handle stress and discomfort. The therapist can also help you talk about deeper issues that you are facing that make recovery difficult.

If you prefer group therapy or you think that outpatient therapy isn’t enough, then you may want to consider intensive outpatient or IOP. This level of care allows you to meet three times a week, and each session lasts for three hours. Unlike outpatient therapy, where you meet individually with your counselor, this is a group therapy format. You will meet with peers who want to recover from their own substance use.

The benefit of this modality, aside from giving you more time to discuss recovery, is that you can learn from your peers. They will discuss similar struggles that you are facing, which will ensure that you don’t feel alone through the process. You can also learn about resources and coping skills that other members share.

Both of these levels of care ensure that you can go about your life after therapy while still ensuring that you have the support you need to recover.

Inpatient Services

While outpatient services will work for many people, you might need extra support. That’s perfectly fine, and there are many reasons why inpatient might be better for you. One of the most common reasons is that your environment isn’t supportive for recovery. For example, others might be using at home, or the stressors at home might be too great. Others find that even combining IOP and outpatient therapy doesn’t give them quite enough support.

Whatever the reason, we also offer inpatient services for your needs. These levels of care allow you to live at our facilities for either part of the day or the entire day, depending on which is best for you. For example, partial hospitalization allows you to attend therapy services and activities during the day, but you can go home to sleep at night. Residential treatment allows you to live at the facility until you are ready to return to your daily life.

Both of these levels of care aim to give you more support and allow for you to step away from your life as you recover. Many clients come with significant stressors that make it difficult to recover. If work, family, friends, or anything else about your environment is making recovery too hard, then inpatient might be a better option for you.

Dual Diagnosis

Trazodone is an antidepressant doctors often prescribe to treat depression, anxiety, and sometimes schizophrenia. As such, you may take Trazodone for a legitimate purpose and then find it difficult to control your use. Others start abusing trazodone because they like its calming effects. In either case, you might be suffering from a dual diagnosis.

This is a term for any client that presents with both mental health and substance use concerns. It doesn’t matter what the mixture of diagnoses is as long as one is mental health and the other is substance use. Our therapists are also able to help dual diagnosis clients. We can assess you to see if a mental health concern is present, and we can treat that and the substance use simultaneously.

Please tell us all your concerns when calling so that we can create a proper treatment plan for your needs. The more we know, the better we can attend to your recovery.

Conclusion

Granite Recovery Centers has been around for over 10 years, and we’re happy to see that we’ve helped numerous clients in the New Hampshire area. Our trained professionals will lend an empathetic ear to your needs while helping with your recovery journey. If you’re ready to gain control of your life again and recover from trazodone or any other substance, then contact us today, and let’s work together on your recovery.

Demerol addiction occurs over time when you regularly abuse the painkiller to feel its effects more acutely. Excessive use leads to physical independence, which causes you to experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if you try stopping. This often leads to the development of drug-seeking behaviors such as doctor shopping.

Enrolling in treatment programs for Demerol addiction can help you achieve sobriety by going through recovery and rehabilitation options. When you reach out to the professionals at Granite Recovery Centers, we will stick with you through the detox process and therapy programs to provide quality Demerol addiction treatment.

Signs of Demerol Abuse

Demerol abuse begins when you start taking it in excess in an attempt to relieve physical or mental pain. This drug is typically available only by a doctor’s prescription for experiencing sudden pain after surgery. Its opioid content allows it to alter the brain and body to alleviate pain.

Those who misuse Demerol might consume it through chewing, snorting or injecting it into the bloodstream to relax muscles and relieve pain. Excessive intake of Demerol in the body could cause you to exhibit the following signs and symptoms.

Nausea and Vomiting

Users often feel nauseated when addicted to Demerol, and it may lead to frequent vomiting over time. The drug causes inflammation to the abdomen leading to abdominal pain, acid reflux and, in extreme situations, severe constipation.

Body Temperature

In some cases, frequent use leads to instability in the body’s heat regulation process. It causes an increased flux in body temperature. You end up sweating in excess once you consume the drug.

Lightheadedness

You may experience lightheadedness accompanied by feelings of weakness that lead to instability. This occurs due to reduced blood flow that causes low blood pressure in the body. When abusing the drug or during the detox period, you tend to experience it the most.

It is important to remain cautious whenever you feel lightheaded by seeking immediate medical attention. Do this before experiencing slowed breath, which may be detrimental to your health.

Agitation and Other Mental Symptoms

Abuse of Demerol causes agitation to your physical and emotional state. It increases anxiety and makes you become restless. In the process, you may start hallucinating due to the drug’s effect on mood, thought and behavior. The drug can also make you experience delirium and seizures that may cause loss of consciousness. You might lose focus in your surroundings or have confused thinking.

Shock

The drug causes low blood pressure in the body, which may result in fluid buildup outside the heart. It leads to pressure increase to the heart to pump more oxygen, making it life-threatening. Too much of this effect could result in cardiac arrest or lead to a coma.

These side effects can be serious. Seek help from family, friends or a trusted rehab facility like Granite Recovery Centers to avoid overuse of Demerol.

Risks of Demerol Abuse

Demerol is prone to abuse due to its pain-relieving effects on your physical and mental health. It activates opioid receptors in the spinal cord and brain, ensuring that you feel pleasant and experience a rewarding sensation. However, excessive use of Demerol leads to the following.

Tolerance and Dependence

When suffering from substance use disorder, you may experience tolerance for the drug. It starts with taking small doses that have a lesser effect compared to the first use. You then opt to consume larger amounts to relieve pain or get high without noticing that you take in more each time.

This behavior leads to Demerol dependence accompanied by mild physical and mental symptoms. Once you stop using the drug, your body goes through withdrawal, making it crucial that you get help to safely quit use of this drug. It’s important to get help before experiencing relapse and getting back to your old ways.

Addiction

Demerol addiction is a disease that you cannot cure easily without seeking professional help. Addiction produces changes in the brain that make you continue using the drug despite experiencing negative consequences from its use. Continuous use often leads to brain damage, which causes loss of control and significant damaging behaviors.

Because drug addiction is complex, quitting takes more than good intentions or a strong will. It requires you to step up and seek professional help to guide you through the healing process. When you’re ready to accept help, Granite Recovery Centers can offer you high-quality addiction treatment.

Compulsive Drug-seeking Behaviors

It’s a sign of addiction that, whenever you run out of Demerol, you tend to devise mechanisms to get more of the drug. Doctor shopping is a common sign where you visit different doctors while explaining your pain. They end up prescribing the drug without knowledge of your addiction.

In addition, using someone else’s prescription is a clear indicator of compulsive drug abuse. Instead of practicing such behaviors, enroll in therapy or talk to your doctor about Demerol addiction. It will be the beginning of a healing journey.

Treatment Programs for Demerol Addiction

Side effects associated with Demerol abuse often require immediate medical attention depending on the type of effect. Sweating, drowsiness, vomiting and lightheadedness are less crucial, but you should see a doctor when experiencing an irregular heartbeat, unusual tiredness, loss of appetite or agitation. A doctor may refer you to one of the following treatment options.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy aims at changing negative thought patterns that lead to bad behavior. It guides you into learning how to identify the adverse effects of Demerol abuse and the dangers it exposes to your health. Therapy sessions help in challenging you to quit abusing the drug by suggesting a healthier option when you’re faced with triggers.

Therapy often includes relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing to supplement traditional 12-step programs. They help calm the body, ensuring that you experience peace and comfort. Talk therapy improves tolerance to uncomfortable feelings and sensations associated with the relapse period.

In the process, you may have to do both individual and group therapy to treat your psychological drug addiction. By the end of each session, you will have made progress along the healing process.

Motivational Interviewing

Behavioral therapy helps you maintain desirable habits by identifying and discarding undesirable ones. Undergoing these sessions ensures that you understand the dangers of Demerol abuse, its adverse effects on your life and ways to stop your addiction.

Group therapy lets you learn from your surrounding environment, especially from former users. You get to express your feelings about addiction and tell your story in a safe space.

Others in the program can express their thoughts aimed at increasing the healing process. You end up learning how to balance life skills associated with handling stress apart from ignoring drug cravings.

Contingency management sessions reward you for exhibiting positive behavior of abstinence from drug abuse. They build responsibility in you to increase your motivation for continuing treatment.

Detox and Withdrawal From Demerol Abuse

Medical detox is the safest and most reliable way to stop Demerol abuse. Seek your doctor’s advice on the best way to begin Demerol treatment to ensure that you avoid suffering from adverse withdrawal symptoms. Failure to consult a doctor often leads to anxiety and agitating effects that you may feel to be life-threatening. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Some users try to lower their Demerol dosage levels themselves in an attempt to feel better. Doing this without seeking medical advice leads to severe withdrawal symptoms associated with Demerol abuse, however. It is crucial to see a doctor who will prescribe a lowered dosage to help in healing.

Your doctor might advise you to enroll in a detox program if you are a serious or long-term Demerol user. A drug detox center allows you to have all your withdrawal symptoms addressed by a qualified medical team. At Granite Recovery Centers, our professional team knows how to handle the following withdrawal symptoms.

Loss of Appetite

Individuals with addictions often make poor dieting options, and substance abuse can prevent the body from receiving proper nutrients. It is crucial to eat a nutritious diet during detox to recover lost nutrients. However, most recovering users are prone to experience loss of appetite accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

It is crucial to consume the required amount of food to help you stay nourished and get healthy again. This will help you remain energized through the detox journey.

Dizziness

Dizziness often occurs because the body fails to experience the pain-relieving effects of Demerol. It leads to a lack of stability and clear perception due to pupil dilation or the blurry effect of having watery eyes.

Insomnia

In extreme situations, withdrawal causes insomnia caused by the body’s reaction to healing. Brain cells tend to rejuvenate during this period, so it is crucial to have adequate rest when experiencing detox.

Muscle Pain

Muscle pain often occurs a few hours after you stop taking the drug. The pain can change from mild to severe by the day when you do not seek help. A doctor may prescribe pain-relieving medication, or they can advise on an alternative option.

Joint pains often accompany muscle pain and are more painful when not treated. For this reason, it is better to have professional assistance from a detox program rather than try to go through withdrawal alone.

Rehabilitation Options for Demerol Abuse

Rehabilitation centers come with different options to suit your recovery needs. Some offer strict outpatient or residential treatments while others partial hospitalization programs or aftercare programs. It is crucial to research the facilities before opting to enroll in one.

You can search the internet, ask family members and friends who may have experienced addiction or ask your doctor. In the process, consult a medical professional about your period of Demerol abuse and the Demerol dosage you have consumed. A doctor’s recommendations can be very helpful in when you are ready to enroll in a rehab program like those offered by Granite Recovery Centers. At our facilities, we provide patients with quality addiction treatment that meets the following requirements.

Specialized Care

Specialized care offers you the opportunity to recover from Demerol addiction while receiving personalized treatment. At Granite Recovery Centers, you can choose a treatment program exclusive to men or women. This ensures that you remain in the company of your fellow recovering drug or alcohol users to support each other and feel safe to face your addiction.

Our specialized treatments help improve the mental, emotional, physical and developmental aspects of your recovery. We want to help you remain confident and focused on healing from drug abuse.

Inpatient Rehab

An inpatient treatment program helps you be fully immersed in the recovery process. This type of treatment confines you to a structured environment that is safe and offers daily care. It helps build discipline in you as you go through different therapy sessions while treating your withdrawal symptoms.

Therapy builds resilience in the early recovery process by building endurance and commitment to the healing process. You can enjoy physical activities whenever you need recreational time and can engage with fellow recovering individuals also staying at the facility.

Outpatient Rehab

After successful completion of an inpatient rehabilitation program, it is advisable to start an outpatient program. If you want to skip inpatient treatment, the requirements for jumping into outpatient rehab include having less severe Demerol addiction symptoms and having a supportive home environment.

Outpatient rehab allows you to live at home with your loved ones while attending scheduled visits at rehab clinics. Each visit results in treatment through therapy or via prescribed medication.

The Journey to Recovery

The journey to recovery from Demerol addiction is not easy, but getting support from family and friends and enrolling in a rehab center helps in hastening the recovery process. Your support system can encourage you while dealing with withdrawal side effects that may affect your physical and emotional state.

Enrolling in treatment programs may take up much of your time, but treatment is worth it for your health. Beginning the recovery process as soon as you notice that Demerol use affects your life negatively can give you the best possible chance at long-lasting sobriety.

Concerta is a brand name for the drug methylphenidate. Methylphenidate, also found in other brand-name drugs like Ritalin, is a stimulant medication. It is often prescribed for people who struggle with narcolepsy or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Concerta is an important treatment option for these disorders. However, some people use this medication recreationally. Sometimes, even when used as prescribed, Concerta can become habit-forming. Understanding how this drug works and how it can become a problem are important steps in ending the use of it.

How Concerta Works

Methylphenidate works in the brain. Essentially, it affects the central nervous system. When taken as prescribed, the effects of this drug are mostly positive. In the brain, neuron cells transmit messages thanks to neurotransmitters. These are chemical signals that travel from neurons to other cells. The other cells might be other neurons, but they could also be things like gland or muscle cells. The neurotransmitter chemicals are made within the neurons.

In some people, there’s an imbalance in the chemical signals in the brain. Medications like Concerta are used to restore the proper balance. Research shows that methylphenidate works particularly on dopamine by increasing levels of that chemical in the brain. Dopamine is implicated in several very important processes in the brain and body. It’s linked to things like movement, behavior, and even motivation. Dopamine has also been linked to the development of substance use disorder.

Concerta is generally used in combination with other treatments like talk therapy. In people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Concerta makes it easier to focus and pay attention. There’s even some evidence that it can improve listening skills in users with ADHD. Methylphenidate also helps narcoleptics stay awake and alert during the day. For many people, Concerta is a life-changing medication. It has the potential to improves people’s lives and makes it easier to function.

As with all medications, there are some potential side effects with the use of Concerta. These can include insomnia, rash, nervousness, changes in appetite, headaches, and nausea. Men may experience priapism when taking this medication. This is a persistent and painful erection. It’s a serious problem that won’t go away on its own; it requires medical attention.

If people stop taking Concerta abruptly, they may experience withdrawal. It’s important not to stop this medication without stepping down. Symptoms of withdrawal can include mood changes like depression. Some people may even experience suicidal ideation when coming off methylphenidate.

In general, Concerta is safe when used as prescribed. Most people tolerate it well and have few, if any, side effects.

Habit-Forming Potential of Concerta

People can become dependent on Concerta. This is particularly true if they have a history of substance use disorder. When patients take Concerta in its extended-release form, that also seems to be linked to dependence. Some people also use methylphenidate without a prescription. Recreational use of this drug can be problematic.

As an upper, Concerta appeals to people who work long hours and need to focus. However, taking this drug recreationally can be problematic. People may not be prepared for exactly the dose they are taking. Usually, doctors will carefully step up a dosage over time as patients develop a resistance to the medication. A doctor’s guidance doesn’t happen with recreational use, so a user may up their dose much too quickly. They may also experience withdrawal symptoms or drug interactions.

Recreational Use of Concerta

Using Concerta as prescribed is unlikely to produce a “high” or feeling of euphoria, but some people use this drug without a prescription. In a high dose, it can potentially have that kind of effect. Sometimes, people even attempt to get high by snorting methylphenidate because they expect that it will have the same kinds of effects as cocaine. Typically, Concerta is prescribed in tablet form. If people crush extended-release forms and snort them, it increases the chance that they can overdose.

Taking methylphenidate recreationally, particularly by snorting, can increase the chances that it will become a problem in the future. Snorting Concerta delivers it to the bloodstream more quickly. That may intensify the good feelings that can come from this drug. However, it can also amplify the downsides, such as side effects or withdrawal symptoms.

Snorting Concerta in this way can even create other side effects. For example, some people become confused and start to hallucinate when snorting Concerta. A fast heart rate and profuse sweating can also occur. People may even feel as if they’re having a heart attack. Recreational use also makes it difficult for medical providers to know what dose has been used. This information is important for them to have in treating people with these problems.

Mixing Drugs

Sometimes, people mix Concerta with other drugs. This can be dangerous because of the potential of drug interactions. For example, mixing a stimulant like Concerta with a depressant like alcohol can increase the potential for an overdose. Concerta is a stimulant designed to make the central nervous system work more efficiently. Alcohol, on the other hand, depresses the central nervous system.

Methylphenidate is generally prescribed in such a way that it’s in the body at all times. It’s also available in a long-lasting, extended-release form. When people drink alcohol while taking a drug like Concerta, the stimulant medication can dull the effects of the alcohol. This might influence people to drink more in order to feel the buzz they were expecting. That can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal.

Drinking while taking Concerta can also lead to serious side effects. When mixing drugs, people can become dizzy, nauseous, and confused, finding it hard to concentrate. Other effects can include anxiety, dry mouth, and even increased symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Doctors do not recommend mixing alcohol with Concerta.

Another drug that people commonly mix with methylphenidate is cannabis. In some studies, it seems that combining these drugs could potentially affect learning abilities. In other studies, the combination of these drugs has been shown to affect the cardiovascular system as well as reaction times and performance.

Cannabis is a complicated drug. It can produce a variety of effects in different users by acting as a stimulant, hallucinogenic or depressant. However, chemically, marijuana has a depressant effect on the central nervous system like alcohol. Mixing stimulants with depressants is generally a bad idea. It’s important to be aware of these kinds of negative interactions before mixing Concerta with other drugs.

Signs of a Problem

Even in people who have a prescription, it’s possible to develop a substance use problem around methylphenidate. Luckily, there are some common signs of a problem developing that loved ones can be aware of. One of the biggest warning signs is a fixation on the drug. The user may start to become very concerned about where their medication is. They might talk about using it or worry about taking it. For recreational users, they may start to strategize more about how to find Concerta and talk more about taking it.

Another important symptom to be aware of is a change in habits. If someone loses interest in activities they previously loved, that can be a big warning sign. Isolating from friends and healthy group activities can be a signal that substance use is becoming a problem regardless of the drug at issue.

Finally, there can be physical changes in someone who is taking a lot of Concerta. They may start to sweat a great deal, lose weight or have trouble sleeping. Stimulants like Concerta give people a boost in energy. If someone is staying up all night while working on ideas that don’t make sense to others around them, that can also be a sign of a problem.

Getting Help

There is hope for people who have become dependent on Concerta. There are plenty of resources available to help drug users recover and live a sober life. Professional rehab, like the kind offered at Granite Recovery Centers, is one option. Rehabilitation centers can help people who’ve developed a problem get their lives back on track. Often, rehabilitation is a multi-step process.

When it comes to a drug like Concerta, it’s important to start with supervised medical detox. People who are coming off methylphenidate can deal with serious withdrawal symptoms. During supervised detox, they’re being monitored so that the process remains safe. Medical professionals can provide medications to ease negative symptoms during detox. Providers will also monitor vitals during the process. They check and record indicators like temperature and blood pressure to make sure that everything is progressing normally. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

The next step tends to be inpatient rehab. Inpatient treatment provides structure for people at a critical point as they start to really recover. At Granite Recovery Centers, inpatient treatment can last between 30 and 90 days. During that time, clients will be on a schedule. They will participate in individual and group therapies. They will also learn to structure their time and organize their lives by doing activities like cleaning their personal space every day. Goal-setting and planning are other important parts of inpatient rehab.

At the conclusion of an inpatient stay, clients will transition to an outpatient program. This is less intensive. It might involve meeting with a therapist once a week, for example. Clients are also encouraged to attend support group meetings.

For some people with packed schedules, it may be appropriate to start with outpatient treatment. An addiction specialist may offer recommendations as to the right type of treatment.

Types of Therapy

At Granite Recovery Centers, we know that recovery is individual. Every person who embarks on this journey ultimately has to carve out their own path. We offer programs that make it easy for people to tailor treatment to their needs. For example, women sometimes have traumas that men do not have. We have a women-specific treatment program to address these concerns. We also have programs designed for men specifically.

We also recognize that some professions can cause PTSD, and they may provide people with easier access to medications. Our uniformed professionals treatment program may be a good fit for paramedics, soldiers, police officers, and firefighters. We are also able to offer treatment for dual-diagnosis patients who struggle with mental health disorders in addition to substance use problems.

The foundations of all of our treatment programs include a 12-step curriculum, individual therapy and a focus on evidence-based medicine. For some clients, medication-assisted treatment is an important option.

For more information, please reach out to Granite Recovery Centers today. We are here to help demystify the rehab process for you and answer all your questions about quitting Concerta safely. We take pride in assisting people as they rebuild their lives.

Modafinil is a medication most often prescribed for those with sleep issues such as shift work sleep disorder. While this does not treat the disorder itself, it does ease some of the daytime symptoms associated with these sleep disorders. At the same time, modafinil has become a popular study aid drug because it is a stimulant.

This article will cover what modafinil is, what it’s supposed to be used for, addiction potential and treatment options if you find yourself depending on this medication for daily functioning. If you are facing modafinil addiction, then we want you to know that you’re not alone and there are ways to recover.

What Is Modafinil?

According to Medline, modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting agent. This means that it helps keep you awake by stimulating dopamine and other neurochemicals associated with attention and energy. This medication is most often prescribed for sleep disorders like sleep apnea, narcolepsy and other similar disorders.

It is important to note that modafinil doesn’t necessarily help you go to sleep at the proper time. It treats the daily sleepiness symptoms that people with these conditions often face. This makes it easier for you to get through the day without feeling tired or sluggish. Modafinil does not replace real sleep, but it will make the sleepiness a little easier to handle.

Study Aid and Energy Boosts

Modafinil is currently only prescribed for the sleepiness associated with sleep disorders, but many people use it for other reasons. According to WebMD, modafinil is often used as a study aid. Many students use this instead of amphetamines or ADHD medications because the focus and energy modafinil brings is considered smoother and easier to handle. At the same time, modafinil can also be habit-forming.

Many people abuse modafinil to increase their energy. For those facing overall lethargy, fatigue or depressive symptoms, modafinil might sound like a cure. WebMD reports that modafinil blocks dopamine transporters. These typically collect dopamine once it has been excreted. Since the transporters are blocked, the dopamine is able to stay in your brain longer. This is similar to the effect of cocaine or methamphetamine but to a smaller extent.

If you find yourself using modafinil for non-prescription purposes or taking more than prescribed to feel awake, focused or energized, then this could be the sign of a dependency or addiction. Speak to your doctor or contact us at Granite Recovery Centers to seek help for this.

Modafinil Side Effects and Overdose

Nearly every medication has side effects, and modafinil is no exception. These side effects are often noted during clinical trials, and the list might expand as more people are prescribed the medication. Some of the most common modafinil side effects according to Medline include:

• Headache
• Difficulty staying asleep or falling asleep
• Nausea, gas, diarrhea or heartburn
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth

These are only the most common modafinil side effects. While these are typically mild, there is a chance that you may experience a rare or severe side effect. If you feel any symptoms occur after taking modafinil, then be sure to alert your doctor. They can determine if the symptom is truly from the medication and how to proceed forward with treating you.

There is also the chance of overdosing. This is more common for those who are forming a modafinil addiction or dependency. It is unlikely that an overdose will happen if you take the prescribed amount. Overdose most commonly happens to those who are taking significantly more than they were prescribed.

The following symptoms could be red flags for a modafinil overdose:

• Severe difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Agitation and restlessness
• Chest pain
• Pounding heartbeat
• Visual or auditory hallucinations
• Confusion
• Severe nervousness

If these symptoms are occurring, then speak to your doctor, seek emergency medical services or call a poison control hotline to get assistance.

Modafinil Addiction Potential

Modafinil is not commonly considered addictive by doctors and other medical professionals. While it shouldn’t be biologically addictive like opioids, many people who use it find themselves craving higher amounts, building tolerance, and seeking out more modafinil for non-prescription purposes. The National Institutes of Health reported that some patients use higher amounts of modafinil in order to feel alert and awake.

While modafinil may not carry the addiction potential of opioids like heroin, it seems that doctors and other medical institutions are slowly beginning to understand that patients may form a dependency on this medication. Medline reports that modafinil may be habit-forming and cautions patients to only take the prescribed amount.

Treatment Options

If you are seeking treatment for modafinil dependency, then we are happy to say that there are many ways to treat this addiction. We can treat this and other addictions on multiple levels. From a purely biological perspective, we can assist with detox to ensure that you safely come off modafinil. We also have multiple levels of care and therapy to ensure that you get the support you need to overcome your triggers and cravings.

Medical Detox

Discontinuing any medication or substance that affects your mood or that you’ve developed cravings for can be difficult. Our medical detox program connects you with a doctor who can oversee your progress as you reduce your dose and discontinue modafinil. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

This process most often involves tapering the medication so that you can slowly get used to functioning without the medication in your system. Other medications may be prescribed to help with any uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms as needed. If there are any problems during the process, such as increased cravings or severe side effects from not using, then the doctor will be able to help you through that as well.

Some people may believe that this is the end of addiction since they are no longer taking the substance after detox. However, it’s a smart idea to get further support to help you understand your triggers.

Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient Care

Outpatient and intensive outpatient, or IOP, levels of care are the most common after detox for modafinil addiction. These levels of care allow you to live your life while receiving treatment for your substance use.

Outpatient care means that you meet individually with your assigned therapist once or twice a week. Once a week is most common, but some clients need a little extra support. This allows you to comfortably speak about your struggles, discover your triggers and develop coping skills to help ease your cravings. This type of therapy works well on its own, or it can also supplement IOP treatment.

IOP is considered the next level up from outpatient care. The two are sometimes used in conjunction to give you more support. IOP treatment is a type of group therapy where you meet with a trained therapist along with a group of peers who are also seeking to recover from their substance use. Group therapy like this allows you to explore yourself while simultaneously learning from other members in a process known as vicarious learning.

IOP treatment is a three-hour session and is typically held three times a week. This gives you enough time to really learn about yourself and to see what is working for other people. The magic of group therapy is that you can hear about what others are doing, what resources they found and what unique coping skills or strategies they discover that might be helpful for you. Not only that, but it gives you a supportive environment of like-minded peers who are on their own recovery journey.

Partial Hospitalization and Residential Treatments

While most people suffering from modafinil dependency should be able to recover with outpatient or IOP treatment, you may find that these don’t provide you with enough support. Maybe you’re facing intense stressors at home, your environment isn’t supportive for recovery, or there are underlying problems that IOP and outpatient treatment aren’t able to address.

If this is the case, then you may want to consider either partial hospitalization or residential treatment options. Both of these allow you to live at the facility, but the amount of time you stay depends on the treatment level and your history.

Partial hospitalization allows you to receive professional care sometime during the day and then go home at night. This is considered the less restrictive of the two. You get the support and care you need for most of the day while the rest can be spent working, sleeping in your own bed, speaking with friends and so on. During the day, you will participate in both group and individual therapy. There will also be activities to help you acclimate to a sober lifestyle while learning more about yourself and your cravings.

If going home at night doesn’t seem like a good idea due to stressors or an unsupportive recovery environment, then you may want to consider residential treatment. This is similar to partial hospitalization, but you stay the whole day while attending therapy and other activities, and you sleep at the facility overnight. This is available if you need to completely separate from your stressors and focus entirely on your recovery.

If you are considering these levels of treatment, then contact us and we can help guide you. Tell us about your needs and preferences. We will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and the amount of support that is required to help you recover.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Modafinil helps ease symptoms of sleepiness, fatigue and low energy levels. While many people use it as a study aid or just to combat general lethargy, others might be attracted to this medication because they want to ease depressive symptoms. If this is the case and you have or believe you have depression, then you might be wondering how that impacts your treatment.

This is known as a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring diagnosis. This is when a client suffers simultaneously from a mental illness like depression and a substance use disorder such as with modafinil. The exact disorders don’t matter; it could be anxiety and heroin or OCD and cocaine.

If this describes your situation, then we want you to know that you’re not alone. Many people suffering from mental illnesses seek out substances or misuse medications to try to treat themselves. That line of thought itself isn’t bad, but there are better ways of going about it. We can help treat both simultaneously while also finding new medications for your treatment to help you be in the best possible health.

Seeking Help for an Addiction

While modafinil itself is not considered addictive by many people, doctors and researchers are finding that it can be habit-forming and are urging patients not to use higher than the prescribed dose. This medication is useful for those who suffer from a sleep disorder and have trouble staying awake throughout the day. However, others are using it to increase their focus and alertness without a sleep disorder.

If you find yourself craving modafinil and using higher than the prescribed amount, then you may have developed an addiction. If this is the case, then contact us and we can help you recover. Let us know your needs, and we will make a recovery plan that treats you with respect.

Every day, millions of Americans find themselves struggling with epilepsy and anxiety disorders. To these mood and mental disorder patients, benzodiazepine drugs can seem to be godsent. But unfortunately, these drugs are a double-edged sword. Despite the positive effects benzodiazepines have on epilepsy, seizures, insomnia, and anxiety, these drugs are proven to have a high abuse-risk profile.

While addiction to benzodiazepines can be hazardous, not everyone dependent on this drug type is an addict. The problems kick in when benzodiazepines or other prescription drugs are used non-medically. The intensified euphoria that comes with using benzodiazepines or combining them with other substances like opioids and alcohol can easily get you hooked.

Klonopin falls under the family of benzodiazepine drugs. It is mainly used medically as a prescription for seizures and anxiety disorders. Klonopin is also commonly used non-medically by people hoping to get high on it. Unfortunately, there is a long list of potentially deadly lifestyle, physical, and mental consequences, as well as side effects.

Non-medical use of Klonopin is never safe and only places you at serious risk of becoming addicted and overdosing. Addiction to benzodiazepines can easily wreak havoc on your life. If you are already addicted to the drug, it is never recommended to try and quit Klonopin cold turkey. Attempting to quit the drug without seeking professional help can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. At Granite Recovery Centers, we offer treatment programs to help you or your loved ones safely recover from a Klonopin addiction.

The Chemistry of Klonopin (Clonazepam)

Klonopin is a brand name for the medically approved clonazepam, which is a benzodiazepine prescribed for managing panic and anxiety disorders. Clonazepam is commonly prescribed for the treatment and management of various types of movement and seizure disorders. Clonazepam and benzodiazepines, in general, work through altering the effects of neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the CNS. Taking Klonopin improves GABA signaling, which causes inhibition of brain activity. This leads to a calming effect when brain function is minimized or slowed. The drug is pressed into tablets and intended to be administered orally.

As a prescription for panic disorders, Klonopin is available in an orally disintegrating tablet. Depending on the use, the tablet dosage of clonazepam ranges from 0.125 mg to 2 mg. When administered in the body, clonazepam has a half-life of about 18 to 50 hours. This means that half the amount of the dosage gets eliminated from the body within the half-life period. Due to the medically proven high risks of addiction or dependence, clonazepam is only used for short-term treatment. This is why doctors will always instruct you to only take the drug exactly as outlined in the prescription.

How Is Klonopin Misused?

Clonazepam, when taken exactly as prescribed, can be safely used in the management of seizures, anxiety, and panic disorders. However, clonazepam can also cause sedation and feelings of euphoria. These feelings of “high” appeal to many users and are among the major causes of abuse. You may not immediately realize it, but when you take the drug more often or take a little more just for the high, you are abusing the drug. Misuse of clonazepam may manifest in several ways, such as:

• Taking Klonopin without a medical prescription
• Taking Klonopin just for the “high”
• Administering the drug in other forms other than those approved (e.g., injecting or snorting a crushed tablet)
• Taking a larger dosage or more frequently than prescribed

Most people who abuse Klonopin are not patients of the conditions for which the drug is used to treat. Most of them purchase the drug from the streets or use another person’s prescription to seek a high. “Doctor shopping” is also a common practice among Klonopin addicts. This practice involves one person obtaining multiple prescriptions from different pharmacies or doctors. As earlier stated, clonazepam is only approved in tablet form for oral administration. However, some people will still crush the orally disintegrating tablets to inject or snort them in an attempt to get a more robust “high.”

Administering drugs in other ways than those medically approved intensifies the side effects, making the practice especially dangerous. Besides intensifying the side effects, snorting drugs causes the inflammation of local tissue, which may ultimately lead to a perforated nasal septum. Drug injection has its fair share of adverse effects, such as contracting hepatitis C or HIV, abscesses, gangrene, and cellulitis.

Klonopin Addiction

Addiction is the dependence on a drug formed after consistent drug use, especially in high dosage. Klonopin addiction is especially dangerous due to the difficulty of quitting and the side effects tied to it. There are two ways to look at addiction: the psychological form and the physical form. The physical body may develop reliance or dependence on a drug like Klonopin, such that its balance and function depend on the presence of the drug. This is why people who try to quit Klonopin the cold turkey way suffer from nausea and headaches.

This is a natural response or revolt by the body to a significant deficiency of the substance. The psychological aspect of addiction is the feelings you attach to the use of the drug. Benzodiazepines create a feeling of euphoria. This is why abuse of the drug is often associated with an excellent calming feeling. As life is, when stressful situations occur, users of the drug believe that they can only achieve happiness by taking the drug. This is the leading reason why sedatives and other prescription drugs like Klonopin get misused.

Causes of Klonopin Addiction

Addiction to Clonazepam can form with or without a prescription. Most Klonopin addicts start using the drug as a doctor’s prescription to manage anxiety. Even with a prescription, misuse of the drug can easily cause addiction. Unfortunately, many people believe that drugs prescribed by medical practitioners are potentially harmless and can be taken in any dosage. This is incorrect. Misuse of drugs, even those prescribed by a doctor, can have dangerous consequences, including addiction. You develop an addiction as the dosage and frequency of administration increases beyond a prescription.

Due to the drug’s nature, it is also possible to strictly follow the doctor’s prescription and still develop drug dependence. Although not common, other medications or allergies may poorly combine with clonazepam and induce a “high,” which gets you hooked. Another cause of addiction to clonazepam is the introduction of drug use by people who are already misusing it. Klonopin can be acquired through patients with a prescription or professionals who work at drug stores or pharmaceutical industries. This illegal acquirement of Klonopin heavily fuels its addiction and abuse in the country.

Side Effects of Klonopin

There are several side effects associated with misuse of Klonopin, in addition to the pleasurable short-term “high.” Some of the side effects reported by Klonopin users include:

• Unsteady gait
• Blurry vision
• Joint and muscle pain
• Dizziness
• Increased urge to urinate
• Decreased libido
• Shortness of breath and difficulty in breathing
• Difficulty in focusing attention on a task
• Suicidal ideation caused by depression
• Deterioration of memory
• Cases of dementia in aging Klonopin users

There are also numerous long-term consequences of misusing Klonopin, including:

• Increased possibility of falling or accidents
• Neglect of duties and professional responsibilities. This is why a large number of Klonopin addicts are unemployed.
• Increased risk of violent acts, such as stealing and fights
• Significant risk of financial struggle due to arrests and other legal issues

Klonopin Risk Factors

Overdose is the most significant risk of abusing Klonopin. Many factors increase the risk of a Klonopin overdose. Naturally, the body will develop tolerance to the drug after continued regular use for an extended period. Users who have developed tolerance to Klonopin are at more risk of overdosing in hopes of attaining the same “high.” Taking more of the drug only amplifies the adverse effects of taking it.

Another surefire way of getting adverse effects from Klonopin is polysubstance abuse. This is the practice of mixing benzodiazepines like Klonopin with substances like alcohol or opioids. When taken together, the two substances interact in such a way that they yield more deadly effects on the user. In the case of opioids and benzodiazepines, the side effects of respiratory depression and difficulty breathing are intensified.

Treating Klonopin Addiction

Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options for clonazepam addiction. No matter where you live, there is likely a rehab facility accessible to you. At Granite Recovery Centers, we offer a drug rehab program to help you safely recover from substance use disorders. Our team of professionals is well equipped and qualified to assist you in identifying the best treatment option for your needs.

Despite the wide range of treatment options, all addiction treatments, particularly for Klonopin, begin with overcoming withdrawal symptoms. You will also be ushered into a detoxification program. Overcoming withdrawal is by far the most challenging part for most patients. This is due to the natural side effects of reducing the dosage of Klonopin or completely cutting off usage of the drug. The detoxification step is also a vital part of the rehabilitation process. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Withdrawal Symptoms

According to the Citizens Commission on Human Rights International, cutting down on Klonopin dosage will lead to painful and debilitating withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms occur as the body naturally rebels against the sudden shortage or absence of a substance that it has become highly dependent on. Such symptoms may include:

• Nightmares
• Spasms and muscle cramping
• Insomnia
• Terrible hallucinations
• Seizures
• Sudden weight loss
• Elevated blood pressure and pulse rate

These symptoms kick in immediately when you stop the intake of Klonopin and may be more adverse if the intake had gone too far.

Best Treatment Options

Once you have detoxed Klonopin from your body, you can progress to the next stages of the rehabilitation process. Several settings can be used to address the psychological and behavioral issues before you can fully recover from Klonopin misuse disorders.

You can opt to go for hospital-based inpatient programs for drug addiction. Such programs are focused on providing intensive medical treatment for health issues like addiction. They are run by medical and addiction professionals in a hospital. These are ideal if you are looking for short programs that last only a couple of weeks.

On the other hand, residential treatment programs are long-term and last for about one to three months. They are offered in a dorm-like setting. Since they are offered in a residential setting, the programs may include equine therapy and yoga. Also included in the residential treatment programs are recreational activities for the recoverees.

Another viable treatment option for Klonopin addiction are therapeutic communities. These organized groups help drug addicts overcome their addictions and also go further to help them develop life skills. These skills often come in handy after the end of the treatment process. In the therapeutic communities, treatment programs may last much longer than in the residential treatment setting. Treatment may go for as long as a year or even longer.

Since most Klonopin addictions grow from an effective treatment for mental health disorders, such as panic and anxiety, it is common for addiction treatment programs to include treatment for anxiety and other mental disorders. These dual diagnosis programs put effort into treating addiction and co-occurring mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. We also offer an aftercare program after completing rehab. This is to help prevent recovered individuals from relapsing. Psychotherapy is a popular type of aftercare typically held for one hour once or twice a week. Another great way of preventing relapse is to sign up for a sober living home.

What makes sober living homes more effective are their house rules that include abstaining from substance use, attending recovery meetings, and, most importantly, abiding by a curfew. These rules help overcome the urge and temptation of getting back to Klonopin misuse.

Why Quitting Klonopin Cold Turkey Is Dangerous

As much as you are keen on quitting a Klonopin addiction, do not attempt doing it on your own. Cutting back on drug use may lead to potentially life-threatening side effects, such as seizures. The withdrawal syndrome associated with quitting Klonopin requires professional help. Consult medical and addiction professionals before attempting to stop the intake of a drug your body has become dependent on. The tapering approach taken by professionals is the most effective method of avoiding or minimizing withdrawal effects.

We help a lot of people with drug rehabilitation here at the Granite Recovery Center, so we’re used to seeing people struggling with addiction to many different types of drugs. One of the most dangerous drugs we’ve come across is Carfentanil. People who are struggling with Carfentanil addiction are in a very precarious situation because Carfentanil isn’t even a drug approved for human use.

What Is Carfentanil?

Carfentanil is one of the most dangerous drugs in the world. It’s a synthetic opioid that’s over 1000 times more powerful than the synthetic opioid fentanyl and over 10,000 times more powerful than morphine. Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine, and just a few grains could cause someone to overdose. It’s used to treat severe pain, so knowing this information sheds light on exactly how incredibly powerful Carfentanil is. A single grain of Carfentanil can kill a human.

Carfentanil is so dangerous that the World Health Organization has recommended that an opioid antagonist like naloxone or naltrexone be available in areas where Carfentanil is known to be present. These antagonists may help to revive someone in case of a suspected overdose. As mentioned, naloxone, known by the brand name Narcan, is the antidote used for opioid overdoses. When someone overdoses on Carfentanil, several doses of naloxone are needed in order to treat the victim, but they may not be effective.

Carfentanil was first created in 1974 by Janssen Pharmaceutica. It was created in order to create effective anesthesia that could be used on large zoo animals. People needed to create a level of anesthesia that was powerful enough to sedate large animals so that people could safely work on them. The drug was never intended to be for humans due to its extremely high potency.

Carfentanil is used by veterinarians to sedate large animals like elephants. It’s an extremely strong tranquilizer that only requires about 2ml taken intramuscularly to take down a large animal. It is not to be used for human use for any purpose, but that hasn’t stopped drug dealers and street pharmacists from using it when they package drugs for sale.

Drug dealers often mix Carfentanil with other drugs like heroin, prescription opioids, or cocaine in order to make those drugs more powerful. They do this because Carfentanil is less expensive than the other drugs, so they use it as filler. Unfortunately, drug dealers are not scientists, so they frequently underestimate just how much Carfentanil they’re putting into their mixtures.

This is why most users don’t even know that they’re getting Carfentanil. It’s also a bit difficult to track the number of deaths related to Carfentanil because doctors and labs are not looking for it. Since it’s mixed in with the other drugs, the assumption is usually made that the overdose came about as a result of the other drugs in the system.

How Is Carfentanil Ingested?

Carfentanil is hidden in other drugs, so it’s ingested the way people take those drugs, including via snorting or injection. Carfentanil is available in several different forms, including as a yellow or white powder, tablet, liquid, or spray. Like other opioids, it works by binding to opioid receptors in the body, creating the relaxing, heavily sedating feeling that opioids usually bring. The difference is that this drug also causes severe respiratory distress within mere minutes of it being ingested.

The drug is so powerful, its particles can also actually be absorbed through the skin or simply by inhaling them. This makes it extremely dangerous for first responders and anyone else who comes upon a drug overdose victim who’s taken Carfentanil since it’s extremely easy for them to pick up particles of the drug and become dangerously sick themselves.

A dose as small as .02mg is small enough to kill a human being, making it one of the most dangerous drugs on the street.

Symptoms of Exposure to Carfentanil

It’s extremely difficult to detect Carfentanil, so it can be extremely difficult to figure out if someone has been exposed to or affected by it until they’ve already overdosed. It’s clear, it’s soluble in water, and it’s completely odorless. These characteristics are one of the reasons that it’s so easy for drug dealers to mix into their drugs, and it also makes it difficult to gauge exposure until it’s too late.

One of the best ways to figure out if someone has been exposed to Carfentanil is by looking at their symptoms. The symptoms of Carfentanil exposure are extremely easy to identify since they happen so quickly after ingestion. Some of those symptoms include sudden difficulty breathing, nausea, disorientation, wet and clammy skin, extreme drowsiness, sedation, anxiety, disorientation, runny nose, insomnia, restlessness,pinpoint pupils, and death.

Is Carfentanil Abuse Common?

Because it’s usually hidden inside of other types of opioids that people are more likely to ingest, like heroin and prescription pills, people don’t intentionally abuse Carfentanil. They usually get exposed to it by accident. It can even be difficult for medical professionals to determine whether or not someone has an addiction to Carfentanil because it’s usually masked by other drugs.

This means that while actual abuse of the drug itself is not very common, it’s masked by a real addiction to other drugs. Those addictions have to be dealt with, or the user could end up in a very dangerous situation. Because Carfentanil is so lethal, the most common side effect is, unfortunately, death. If a person does get exposed to Carfentanil and is somehow able to continue using it, the addiction symptoms will look similar to other types of opioid addictions.

Although there haven’t been any controlled laboratory studies evaluating the abuse potential of Carfentanil, medical professionals treat it extremely seriously. The DEA classifies it as a Schedule II drug, meaning that it’s considered a drug that has a high potential for abuse that could lead to extremely severe physical or psychological dependence. This puts it at the very least in the same category as other Schedule II drugs. The likelihood of death when exposed to Carfentanil just makes it that much worse.

Even though the drug has only been on the streets for the past few years, the effects have been devastating. The state of Arizona recorded its first Carfentanil death in 2018.

How Can You Help Someone With Carfentanil If They Can’t Technically Be Addicted to It?

It may feel confusing to try and figure out how to protect someone and help them get over an addiction to Carfentanil if exposure to the drug usually causes such devastating results. Carfentanil abuse usually isn’t discovered until it’s way too late.

The answer to this harkens back to the fact that people don’t seek out Carfentanil. It’s mixed into the drugs and other opioids that they’re already taking. They have an addiction to those opioids, and those addictions brought them into contact with the Carfentanil. In order to prevent someone from having any further exposure to Carfentanil, you have to help them with their addiction to opiates.

How to Tell If Someone Is At Risk of Being Exposed to Carfentanil

It’s extremely easy to tell when someone’s been exposed to Carfentanil because the symptoms show up almost immediately, and they’re usually severe or deadly. The drug is usually mixed in with other drugs, and the onset of symptoms is almost immediate. This means you can assume that if someone has been using heroin or cocaine, and they’ve experienced extreme symptoms after taking it, it’s highly probable they’ve been exposed to Carfentanil.

Another way you can tell that someone may risk being exposed to Carfentanil is if they’ve been using some of the drug’s most common street names, including Serial Killer, Drop Dead, Apache, Tingling Cash, Gray Death, and TNT. If someone you know is mentioning these names, or they’re looking for people to hook them up with illicit opiates like heroin or drugs like cocaine, you could assume that exposure to Carfentanil is much more likely.

How We Can Help

It may feel hopeless or difficult to help someone who is at risk for exposure to Carfentanil, but it can and must be done. Since the person is most likely addicted to other drugs that could be mixed with Carfentanil, the goal is to help them detox from the drugs that are causing the addiction.

This is where we come in. At Granite Recovery Centers, we have years of experience helping people get rid of even the toughest addictions.

Helping people through addiction is our number one goal. Everyone from our administrators to our practitioners to our clients work together as a unit in order to bring about success. Our goal is to bring people to a point where they’re not just in recovery, but they are fully recovered.

We understand that addiction is a chronic disease, and we help our clients understand that we will help them with this disease so that they can be the masters of their own lives once again. We understand that there are many factors that go into addiction. Our goal is to help our clients get through all of them.

Intake

During intake, our goal is to understand the whole patient. We know that our clients are human beings who need help reclaiming control over their lives. Addiction has temporarily turned them into other people, and we will help them get their true selves back.

We will assess their medical, emotional, and mental state so that we can determine what their specific treatment will look like. Everyone will have a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific circumstances. We show nothing but empathy for everyone who comes into our space, so that first meeting will hopefully fill our clients with hope.

Detox

When you’re dealing with a strong opiate addiction, you’re going to need all hands on deck to help you go through the withdrawal process. At Granite Recovery Center, we use techniques like medication-assisted treatment programs that help people safely withdraw from the strongest opiates, including heroin and prescription drug pills. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Withdrawing from a strong opiate addiction without help can be dangerous, so our trained medical staff will be on hand to make sure that you remain safe as you go through this critical part of the recovery process. Our clients are closely and constantly monitored during this time to help make sure that there aren’t any life-threatening symptoms.

Inpatient or Outpatient Treatment

People struggling with addictions that could have exposed them to Carfentanil will most likely benefit from an inpatient program. Strong opiate addictions are extremely hard to break, and addicts know how to find their way back to their old drug-foraging grounds and relapse if there are no strategies in place that can help keep them away from the drug.

With inpatient detox and treatment, not only will they be able to slowly and safely remove the drug from their systems, but they’ll also be able to be in a protective, loving space where they can start to work on the issues that got them to this point. After the intensive first level of inpatient treatment, many of our clients move on to thrive in our outpatient programs. We’re able to give them the emotional, physical, and loving support that they need so that they continue to thrive in the real world.

Therapies

We’ll introduce our clients to therapies ranging from holistic therapies to traditional therapies that will help them learn how to choose healthy and soul-strengthening methods of healing and coping.

Carfentanil is one of the most dangerous drugs on the street. Because it’s mixed into other drugs, it’s very easy for people to get caught up in its deadly net. At Granite Recovery Programs, we will get to the heart of the addiction issue and help you recover and heal so that you can get your life back again.

What Is Tramadol?

If taken normally and under the guidance of a medical professional, Tramadol is not dangerous. Tramadol is one of the many painkillers that are available by prescription. It should be taken on as-needed basis for pain relief, usually every four to six hours. Medical professionals consider it to be a “moderate” pain reliever and is not as strong as some other drugs that are currently available.

Tramadol works by altering the way that your body reacts to pain. It does so by changing the way the pain receptors throughout your body work, helping to block painful sensations and make you feel less pain. These aren’t the only things that Tramadol does to your body, but it is the primary method by which the drug works. Unfortunately, it is possible to develop a tolerance to Tramadol, meaning that you will have to take more in order to achieve the same effect. This can be dangerous over time and can lead to withdrawal or addiction.

Tramadol is an opioid, and is typically for pain relief. Unfortunately, since it is an opioid, Tramadol is also highly addictive. This means that doctors have become much more cautious in how they prescribe opioids. It is also a controlled substance, which means that misuse or misdirection of the drug can come with a prison sentence and other serious consequences.

Side Effects

Tramadol is primarily used for pain relief. However, those are not the only effects that Tramadol typically has on a person. Other effects include:

• Constipation, which is a relatively common symptom of opioid use
• Nausea, vomiting, and general stomach upset
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

More serious side effects such as trouble breathing, fainting, or seizures are possible. Thankfully, they are not common.

Some of the side effects can feel extremely pleasant to drug users. Users report that taking Tramadol can potentially bring on a variety of calming sensations, making users feel warm, happy, relaxed, and at peace. It is also worth noting that Tramadol works slightly differently than many other opioids: It can also increase levels of serotonin. This means that it can not only create a euphoric, relaxed state but also increase someone’s mood.

How Is Tramadol Addictive?

The vast majority of people who use Tramadol will not become addicted to it. Unfortunately, some will because the drug contains all of the hallmarks of addiction.

Tramadol can induce some very pleasant sensations. Taking the drug illicitly, such as by snorting it, can result in a more powerful sense of intoxication and euphoria. Depending on a variety of factors, including the psychology of the individual taking the drug, their genetic predisposition to addiction, and their own physiology, someone can become addicted to these sensations.

Like with most opioids, it is possible to develop a tolerance to Tramadol. This means that people will need to take higher levels of the drug or resort to snorting it or injecting it in order to get the same feelings. Tolerance is standard with most opioids. Unfortunately, the concept of tolerance can result in major addiction challenges. As someone takes more and more of a drug, they become more dependent on it. An individual may also switch from using Tramadol, which is already risky when abused, to illegal drugs such as heroin. This is extremely dangerous and can result in overdose, death, or further addiction.

It is also possible for someone to suffer withdrawal symptoms related to Tramadol use. Someone who abruptly stops using Tramadol, particularly without supervision or under the care of a medical or addiction professional, may face some very serious side effects. These include sweating, pain, and vomiting. The withdrawal symptoms can worsen once your body stops receiving the serotonin boost. This could lead to a variety of negative psychological states, including hallucinations, panic attacks, or significant paranoia.

How Can You Tell If Someone Is Addicted to Tramadol?

Tramadol addiction, like many other signs of addiction to opioids or other forms of medication, can be difficult to discover, particularly if the individual in question is adept at hiding their addiction. However, there are ways that you can determine if someone is addicted to Tramadol.

First, there are obvious signs. Someone may use the drug on a regular basis even after they are no longer in pain. They may also be using an increasing amount of the drug or taking the drug by snorting it or injecting it. No one should be using Tramadol unless it has been prescribed by a doctor; if someone you love is using the drug without a prescription, you should intervene.

An individual who is addicted to Tramadol is likely to suffer a series of social or professional challenges. They may miss school or work and allow their performance in these areas to slip. From a social perspective, they are likely to see a change in social groups, either by moving away from older friends or moving to new ones. If this is the case, it is possible that these new friends are individuals who may be enabling or encouraging this new addiction.

From a physical perspective, there are a variety of signs of substance use disorder. Someone may appear to be less sharp and in a stupor. If they are snorting the drug, they may develop nasal problems, like trouble breathing, sniffling, or nose bleeds.

In addition, emotional changes are likely. Someone may simply seem different, engage in more secrecy, and experience mood swings or spikes in anxiety.

Tramadol Addiction Treatment Options

Addiction treatment for Tramadol varies depending on the severity of the addiction and if a person suffering has additional challenges. Unfortunately, substance use disorders often go hand-in-hand with other mental health challenges like depression or anxiety. In such cases, a specialized dual diagnosis program may be needed. These programs treat substance use disorder and mental illness.

Different treatment plans may also involve a residential component. Many types of treatment plans do not require that the individual who is receiving the treatment actually stay at a rehab facility 24/7. These treatment plans, known as outpatient treatment, simply require that a person engage in therapy on a regular basis and stick with a prescribed treatment plan. For more severe cases, there is intensive outpatient treatment, which provides more support and therapy.

Sometimes a client may require inpatient treatment. In this program, a patient will stay at a residential facility for a set period of time. They will undergo a variety of types of therapy and be under supervision 24 hours a day. This ensures that the individual in question cannot relapse and receives medical monitoring for any withdrawal symptoms.

Therapy Options

Therapy for Tramadol addiction can take many forms. In most cases, a person will first need to purge all forms of the substance from their body. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Once detox has been completed, a person can begin engaging in any number of therapeutic modalities. These include:

• Talk therapy, in which the person suffering from the addiction engages in structured, evidence-based therapy with a trained counselor. There are many forms of talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or motivation therapy.
• Medication-assisted treatment, which involves taking regular medications in order to cut down on addiction and reduce the euphoric sensations that someone experiences when they take a However, the evidence does show that medication, when used in conjunction with counseling, can be extremely beneficial for someone who suffers from substance use disorder.
• Lifestyle therapy, which involves helping someone examine reexamine their lifestyle, including occupation, forms of recreation, and relationships with family and friends. This can also involve the teaching of productive life skills and helping someone learn more positive ways to process their anger or other negative feelings.

Granite Recovery Centers offers numerous modalities of treatment for a variety of addictions that may be related to Tramadol, including prescription opioid addiction or dual diagnosis.

Don’t wait to give your loved ones the help they need. Call today to learn more.

Cymbalta is a medication that aids in treating anxiety and depression among other medical conditions. It is the brand name of duloxetine and works as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI). Typically, SSNRI restores the balance of the neurotransmitters in the brain. Its design is such that that it boosts one’s energy levels, sleep, and appetite.

A person can get this drug via prescription. Usually, the dosage is time released and is given as a capsule of about 40-50 milligrams per day. Others can take up to 120 milligrams daily, depending on the prescription. Cymbalta medication is safe only when one uses it according to a doctor’s prescription. Failure to follow the prescription can lead to serious health complications.

Is Cymbalta Addictive?

Cymbalta is an anti-depressant and therefore not addictive. The only issue is that it makes you depend on it the more you use it. Trying to discontinue Cymbalta, especially when using it for a long period of time, will lead to serious withdrawal symptoms. As such, users sometimes choose to take more of the drug to cope with the painful side effects.

Side Effects of Cymbalta

Trying to withdraw from Cymbalta’s use is when the urge to use even more of it kicks in. However, abusing it is close to impossible. When taken in large amounts, Cymbalta will cause an overdose. One most common side effect of taking too much is having suicidal thoughts. Other side effects include:

• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Fatigue
• Excessive sleep
• Coma
• High or low blood pressure
• General body weakness
• Nausea
• Trembling
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive sweating
• Weight loss
• Lightheadedness
• Skin rash

People who mix this medication with alcohol may experience liver damage. It is also important to note that these effects occur when a person takes Cymbalta in excessive amounts. Therefore, an individual will experience more negative side effects when they abuse the drug by either taking it without prescription or by not following the doctor’s prescription.

Taking it in the right proportions will help improve your appetite and will boost your energy levels, sleep, and mood.

Signs of Cymbalta Addiction

Since abstaining from using Cymbalta is difficult, many people will continue to use it so that the withdrawal symptoms do not hit hard.

Some continue to use it because of the pleasure they get when they are on this medication. That enjoyment is why some people end up taking more and more of this drug. Therefore, knowing that one is addicted can be quite tricky. Even so, people with severe depression can be addicted to it. Here are some signs of Cymbalta addiction:

• Bloodshot eyes
• Weight loss
• Instant change in the physical appearance
• Change in hygiene
• Financial issues
• Slurred speech
• Loss of appetite
• Change in the sleeping pattern

Also, you will notice that the person withdraws from doing things they like, such as no longer socializing with friends and wanting to spend most of the time alone.

When one is addicted to Cymbalta or depends on it, discontinuing medication without assistance will worsen the condition. Others will experience rebound anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Therefore, when trying to detox from Cymbalta, it is best if you do it with a medical professional’s help. Trained professionals will help keep track of the withdrawal effects. Rehab centers offer detox programs that will help you, especially if you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Cymbalta Addiction Treatment

A detox program, which is one treatment, may work for a person trying to discontinue the use of Cymbalta. A person may also choose to work with a rehab program. Cymbalta is not an addictive drug, but people who use it for a long time end up depending on it. As such, the drug can become more or less like alcohol, meaning that when you try to stop using it, you end up using it because of its effects on your body. Therefore, a rehab program will help you stop being dependent on it.

While there are many treatment options, you should consult a medical expert to guide you through the process.

Detoxing From Cymbalta

Abstaining from the use of this substance is close to impossible. The process of being drug free, especially with this kind of drug, is not easy, and that’s where suicidal thoughts start creeping in. A medical detox program is by far the best option for treating the overdependence on Cymbalta. This program looks at the overall well-being of a person and also incorporates that individual’s nutritional needs.

With a detox program, you will be able to stop depending on the drug step by step. This slow process helps you avoid experiencing the severe side effects that come about due to discontinuation of the use of Cymbalta.

Seeking help from a professional or a therapist will guide you as you try to detox. Most rehab centers will have an inpatient treatment program, which is the best option to treat the drug codependence issue. This program can take close to seven days to complete, and by the end of it, you will know the tips and tricks of dealing with the detox.

Treatment Programs for Cymbalta

As mentioned above, the main and best treatment programs include a detox program and an inpatient treatment program. Most rehab treatment centers mostly offer these two. You can also get an outpatient treatment program that can last several weeks to keep you on the right track. The different types of programs have a close relationship in that they all geared toward helping you safely discontinue using Cymbalta.

The rehab centers staff are qualified and offer the best skills they have to help you. You will also get to enjoy therapy sessions during which you can address any other issues resulting in a dependency on Cymbalta. Moreover, the staff will track your journey and will help regulate the side effects you will face due to the detox.

Treatment programs also will give you ample time in an environment free from the drugs so that you can adopt healthy habits and behaviors that set the pace for your physical and mental healing. After these programs, you will have acquired the necessary coping mechanisms not to use more drugs.

Drug Detox Program

Trying to detox from Cymbalta is a daunting task, especially when the side effects start to intensify. Enrolling in a medical detox program will help you have safe discontinuation with a medical expert’s help. A trained professional will be there to walk with you on the journey and to help you mitigate the side effects you might face.

Because the detoxing phase can be a rough path, it can trigger a relapse. Therefore, choosing to have a professional help you is the best method to fighting this drug out of your body. Typically, the process can last between few days to a week. The duration will depend on the kind of Cymbalta dose, the frequency by which you consume it, and the length of time you have been using it.

Inpatient Treatment Program

An inpatient treatment program entails 24/7 care and therefore works well for people who are overly dependent on Cymbalta. With this program, you will get intensive attention from medical experts. It ensures that your environment is sober and will help you recover without any external influences. A person enrolled in an inpatient treatment program will have access to medical professionals.

Residential drug treatment centers will offer you support and help as you acquire the necessary skills to remain sober. Also, you will get medical detox services in the process.

An inpatient rehab program can run for 30 to 90 days. The periods depend on the type of drugs and the severity of the situation. Rehab centers have specific structures and rules that you need to adhere to during your stay there. There will be exercise programs and studies that will keep your mind occupied as you are going through the difficult process. An inpatient program is a great solution for people who have had previous substance use disorders and who live while using high levels of Cymbalta.

Outpatient Treatment Program

Many people prefer an outpatient program as they are struggling with discontinuing the use of Cymbalta. This type of program supports you during recovery, and you get therapy sessions that will shape your behavior. The environment is not as strict as a residential drug treatment program. While outpatient, you can attend your treatment meetings, and once they are over, you are free to leave for home, school or work.

This program can be a great solution for people who are finished with an inpatient treatment program and who are on the road to recovery. Remember, it can take many years to fully recover from the effects of Cymbalta. After you finish a residential treatment program, you may still need professional support not to lose track of what you already know.

With an outpatient program, you can continue to uphold your recovery and learn more about it as you continue your day-to-day activities. Essentially, you get support even when you think you are okay, which is essential for your recovery. An outpatient program still gives you access to therapists and counselors, and there is a big advantage for you to be more independent in your choices.

Aftercare Treatment Programs

Whether you enroll in an inpatient treatment program or an outpatient one, aftercare treatment sessions are crucial. However, the choice to continue with these treatments solely depends on an individual. Aftercare programs will work well for those prone to relapsing after treatment and for those who have detoxed for the first time. For further support after treatment, one can enroll in the sober living program and aftercare programs.

1. Aftercare programs

After completing a main addiction treatment program, enrolling in an aftercare program will be an excellent way to fight the temptation of relapsing. Getting back to your everyday life after rehab may not be easy. Aftercare programs allow you to know how to cope with the new you and transition back to society.

With this program, you can know how to cope with life, and you will develop a schedule that will allow you to live sober. It may still incorporate the 12-step program that you used when receiving intensive treatment care to help you enter the real world without fear of relapsing.

2. Sober Living Program

For those in early recovery, a sober living program is great for total healing. The environment ensures that you are supported to transition back to your normal life swiftly.

Typically, a sober living program has rules that govern it, and there is usually a house manager who will oversee the activities happening there.

Choosing a Cymbalta Rehab Center

Wanting to discontinue the use of Cymbalta will require a smooth and safe process that will not lead to future relapsing. To be successful, you need to select the right rehab center before enrolling in a particular program.

One of the aspects that you need to consider when looking for a rehab center is how far along the addiction issue is. Also, you need to access the duration of time that you will require for successful treatment.

Finally, you need to ensure that the rehab center is certified and has the right facilities to help you recover. If you are looking for a place that will welcome you with open arms, Granite Recovery Centers is ready to help you stop using Cymbalta and get back on your feet. We offer a number of programs and treatment options to help you on your path to addiction-free living. Reach out to us today to see how we can assist you.

Opioid Addiction Treatment Options

For many people battling opioid addiction, the first source of treatment is the emergency room or some other type of hospital. Unfortunately, this can be costly, time-consuming and the results aren’t usually long-term. Most hospitals don’t even offer any program for substance use disorder, and they instead evaluate the patient and send them to another facility that’s more capable of providing long-term care.

You can bypass the costly and time-consuming hospital visit by contacting a specialized rehabilitation center for addiction treatment. Both outpatient and inpatient centers use a combination of medications, group therapies and personal intervention to help patients overcome substance use disorder.

Still, you may be wondering which rehab centers and treatments are best for those specifically battling opioid addiction. Thankfully, there are many programs that focus on this type of substance.

What Are Opioids?

To understand the treatments catered toward opioid addiction, you must first know what opioids are, as well as what it means to be addicted to them. Answering these questions will clarify a clear description of your specific case while showing you the types of factors involved.

By definition, opioids are a group of drugs classified as pain killers. They function by producing feelings of pleasure and pain relief to your body. They’re also capable of changing the chemistry of the brain.

There are many different types of opioids, ranging from illegal drugs like heroin to synthetic opioids like fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine and even morphine. The majority of opioids on the market are from doctor’s prescriptions. Prescriptions suffice until individuals become addicted. Then a patient may try to find another source.

Characteristics of Opioid Addiction

Given the powerful effects that they can have on your body, opioids can easily be misused. Consequently, your body begins depending on them, which then leads to the stage of addiction. Opioid addiction is presented as an extreme compulsive urge to use the drug. While the opioids may have started out to treat a medical condition, a substance use disorder could easily form over time.

Becoming addicted to opioids is common because of their highly powerful effects on the brain, and even using them as medically directed can lead to an addiction. You can become addicted to opioids after using them for several months. If you stop taking them, you’ll experience heavy withdrawal symptoms.

It’s important to understand that addiction and dependence are not technically the same. More specifically, a larger number of people may become dependent on opioids after they’ve been prescribed by a doctor. A dependency can develop rather quickly. On the other hand, addiction is more long term and affects a lesser number of users.

Addiction is characterized by a compulsive and continuing need for the drug. It’s more severe than dependence in that there’s a risk of overdose. Overdoses usually happen when high doses of opioids are consumed.

To be more specific, there are various different types of symptoms associated with opioid addiction, ranging from more physical symptoms, like cranky moods, nervousness, extreme sadness and/or frequent fatigue, to more internal and decisive symptoms, like getting in trouble with the law.

More generally, some other signs of opioid addiction are changing friends, losing interest in activities that you’ve once loved or choosing to spend time alone when you’re usually surrounded by people. Additionally, it may also involve poor hygiene habits, eating more or less than you usually do, changing sleep schedules or being overly energetic.

Withdrawal and Overdose

You’ll clearly know if you’ve become addicted to opioids if you experience withdrawal symptoms after you’ve refrained from taking the drug. Not everyone will experience the same symptoms, but these are some of the most common effects of withdrawal:

• Cravings for opioid drugs
• Anxiety or frequently irritated behavior
• Insomnia or unusual sleeping problems
• Abdominal pain that’s difficult to point to
• Vomiting or frequent nausea
• Diarrhea
• Tremors or severe shaking
• Feeling cold

It’s also important to become familiar with the symptoms of an opioid overdose. This will help you understand when to reach out for immediate help. An opioid overdose could lead to the following:

• Slow or shallow breathing
• Extreme sleepiness, which usually involves the individual not being able to open their eyes
• Inability to talk or open the individual’s mouth
• Blue skin or dark-colored lips
• Snoring or gurgling sounds randomly throughout the day

Detoxification

Kicking an opioid addiction will require going through detoxification. This is the process in which the substance is flushed from your body. Since opioid dependency and withdrawal symptoms can be so strong, detox is not easy. That’s why the process requires professional medical attention.

Types of Opioid Addiction Treatment

Not everyone experiences addiction the same way. That’s why there are various types of treatments. These include medicinal treatments, counseling or behavioral therapy, medication-assisted therapy or even residential treatment or hospital-based treatments.

Medicine Treatment for Opioid Addiction

There are three main medications that are currently being used to treat opioid addiction. They are methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone.

More specifically, both methadone and buprenorphine are responsible for decreasing the withdrawal symptoms as well as the cravings associated with opioid addiction. They target the same spots in your brain that opioids are known to affect. These medicines take away the “high” feelings associated with the drugs.

They’re usually the most effective in treating opioid addiction because they help to restore the balance back to your brain that was removed when opioids took charge.

On the other hand, naltrexone is also effective in treating opioid addiction because it removes the high feelings that are associated with opioids. Naltrexone isn’t effective in getting you off of opioid drugs because of its inability to remove the cravings or withdrawal systems. Instead, it’s more recommended for preventing a relapse in severely addicted individuals.

Counseling/Behavioral Therapies

Counseling is capable of changing your attitudes and behaviors while you’re addicted to opioids. There are different types of counseling that you can engage in to cater to your specific preferences, but they are all centered around building your mindset to the point where you develop a healthy lifestyle and can commit treatment.

Individual Counseling

Most individuals will begin their recovery process with individual counseling. It involves discussing your personal experiences with drugs with a trained professional. There are also several different behavioral therapies involved with individual counseling.

These behavioral therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy and contingency management. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is focused on helping you realize patterns associated with thinking and feeling when you’re addicted. It helps to make you feel more comfortable coping with the transformation from addiction to independence.

On the other hand, motivational enhancement therapy is centered around motivating you to stick to your treatment plan and progress. Contingency management is focused on rewarding you for when you stick to your treatment plans.

Group Counseling

This type of counseling is more suitable for individuals who are more optimistic and open to talk about their  overall experience with opioid addiction. It’s one of the most effective forms of counseling because it helps you to mentally feel supported during your recovery. It also demonstrates how you are not alone. During group sessions, you’ll be exposed to other people’s personal experiences.

You may even be able to take some advice or learn some new strategies for dealing with addiction. Many individuals find it extremely effective because you can talk to other people who have been through the same experiences. This is a stark difference from dealing with a doctor who may only speak from an educational and informative perspective.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

This type of therapy approach is more complex than the other types of treatment because it involves a combination of medications, counseling and behavioral therapies. By combining all of these different types of treatments, it can be more effective in curbing addiction. It offers a whole-patient type of approach to the addiction, so it can ultimately increase the overall effectiveness of the treatment process and recovery.

Residential and Hospital Treatment

Residential treatment involves you physically residing at a rehabilitation facility for a certain period of time. It tends to be the most effective since it’s centered around physically changing your life. You’ll get all-around care and a range of different services catered toward helping you overcome your opioid addiction while staying at a residential facility.

Why You Should Seek Opioid Addiction Treatment

It’s important to seek assistance if you’re battling an opioid addiction. Not only is addiction a costly lifestyle that can affect your personal relationships, but it can also be a matter of life and death. Nearly 2 million Americans abuse opioid drugs. Roughly 128 Americans die by an opioid overdose every day.

How to Start Getting Help

The first thing that you’ll have to do is come to terms with your substance use disorder. Understanding the problem is the first and most important step in the recovery process. However, it’s difficult to think about where to go from there.

It may be helpful to keep a diary of your progress during the recovery process. This will help you keep track and log your thoughts and feelings throughout the treatment. It may help you to read through your previous days when going through treatment so that you can actually see the progress that you’ve made.

It’s important to realize that very few people go through the recovery process alone. Quitting cold turkey is almost impossible because opioid dependency and addiction can be so serious. Rehab centers are staffed with professionals who have experience in addiction treatment. As mentioned earlier, some of the best programs are at residential facilities that provide inpatient services.

Granite Recovery Centers

Check out one of Granite Recovery Centers’ locations if a secluded environment and dedicated staff appeal to you. We offer plenty of residential facilities for those battling addiction, and two of our centers are Green Mountain Treatment Center in Effingham, NH, and New Freedom Academy in Canterbury, NH. Both of these rehab centers offer a wide range of treatments that can help you overcome opioid addiction. Residents are far away from temptations because our facilities are located in the serene mountains of New Hampshire .

Given the danger of substance use disorder, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. Take the first step and call a treatment center to learn more about the recovery process.

Overcoming Cocaine Addiction

Overcoming cocaine addiction is possible. However, success rests on the shoulders of the individual who has fallen into this hole. Overcoming addiction is difficult because the substance of choice alters the receptors in the brain as well as the body. A person’s brain has to remember what it was like to live without cocaine. Then, the body has to stop craving the feeling of euphoria that cocaine provided.

Cocaine Overdose Statistics

In 2017, there was an estimated 13,942 deaths due to cocaine overdoses in the United States. The national rate for cocaine overdose deaths has risen since 1999. The trend is in line with the rise of overall drug overdose deaths in the U.S. The No. 1 culprit is opioids, but cocaine has popped up in opioid-related deaths, namely when fentanyl is involved. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health found a 26% increase in cocaine use from 2014 to 2015. Analysts believe that there were 766,000 first-time users that year.

Cocaine Addiction May Be Colliding With the Opioid Epidemic

One possible explanation for so many new users is the connection between opioids and cocaine. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. The formula of a synthetic opioid can be concocted by mixing heroin or cocaine with fentanyl, for example. The person who is going to consume the mixture is aiming to optimize the potency. The ultimate goal is satisfying a craving for euphoria even though it is manufactured. Since fentanyl has a potency that is 50 to 100 times stronger than prescription non-opioid pain killers, the result has been an alarming rise in overdose deaths since 2013.

The medical field is working to get a firm grasp on what has become the opioid epidemic. In the process of understanding the two decades of data they now have, experts have developed several options to help those suffering from addiction:

• Outpatient rehabilitation
• Contingency management aka motivational incentives
• Therapeutic communities

In behavioral interventions, medical professionals are attempting to incentivize abstinence from cocaine. Cognitive-behavioral therapy has seen success because it helps patients develop skills that support long-term abstinence from cocaine.

A therapeutic community is put together during an inpatient rehab stay. You can find these groups throughout the local communities outside of rehab. Churches, community centers and other public facilities often host Narcotics and Cocaine Anonymous that are open to residents.

The Importance of Group Therapy

No matter the level of cocaine addiction, it’s important to attend therapy groups. Meetings at groups such as Narcotics and Cocaine Anonymous are encouraged for all at any stage of recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that 40% to 60% of patients who are trying to recover end up relapsing.

You’ll be at risk of a relapse if:

• You have little to no support system
• A respite from distractions and temptation
• A support group of people who understand the circumstances

Ongoing Recovery

The goal of every addiction rehabilitation program is to equip the patient with the tools they need to live a sober life.

Granite Recovery Centers offers treatment plans that are based on the 12-Step curriculum. We integrate evidence-based clinical therapies to promote a higher chance of success post-treatment. Caretakers customize plans based on the needs of the patient because not all cases are the same. Those who face risky withdrawals go through the sub-acute medical detox facility. Rehabilitation is not only about overcoming the addiction. It’s also about addressing any concurring mental health issues.

Those who might consider a program such as those offered by the New Freedom Academy are presented with several options, too. This is a 20-bed facility that keeps a low patient to medical staff ration. Clinical psychotherapeutic support is provided during a patient’s stay at the center. Included are one-on-one individual therapy, process groups and motivational interviewing. Holistic activities such as yoga, meditation and physical exercise are also provided.

Typically, rehabilitation programs will focus on relapse prevention education and aftercare planning. Since the rehabilitation field understands that there is no one-size-fits-all remedy to addiction, one patient’s plan may include art therapy and mental health counseling while another’s might involve equine therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy.

Why Seeking Help Is Important

The negative effects of a cocaine addiction are serious. The worst outcome is death. If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, taking action will help prevent long-term health issues.

Mental health issues related to cocaine use disorder include:

• Schizophrenia
• Severe anxiety

You’re not alone. Even though it may not seem like it, there are thousands of people battling addiction. Working toward sobriety allows you to mend broken relationships. This builds a necessary support group that can help you start over with a sober life.

The first step is to assess where you are in your addiction. Whether it is a mild or severe case, help is at your disposal. Getting it simply requires a phone call to a hotline or a visit to a rehabilitation center.

When someone has a substance abuse problem, the right treatment can make a humongous difference. Many people relapse after their initial treatment, so it is important to get help from the best codeine addiction rehab center possible. Through evidence-based addiction treatment programs and the best detox options, clients can achieve a better chance of staying sober over the long run.

What Happens in a Codeine Addiction Rehab Center?

Each person is different, so the right treatment can vary. Before the individual enters a codeine rehab program, a substance abuse counselor will conduct a thorough evaluation. They will consider the client’s physical health, addiction history, and current usage. In addition, they will look for any underlying disorders.

This process is extremely important because dual diagnosis disorders like depression can actually make addiction more likely. By treating co-occurring disorders at the same time, codeine rehab is able to prevent a relapse in the future. Part of the rehab program will also include relapse prevention training so that the client can avoid triggers that lead to a relapse.

In a codeine addiction treatment center, clients will initially go through the detox process. This stage involves removing any remaining chemicals from their body. Medical drug detox can supervise the process and prevent serious side effects. When detox is complete, the client can move on to the next step in the rehab process. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

The next stages of treatment depend on what the client needs. Depending on the client’s outside responsibilities and the intensity of their addiction, they may want to go to an inpatient or outpatient rehab. Afterward, aftercare programs like counseling, group meetings, and sober living homes can help clients remain sober and get the support they need.

Why Is Aftercare Important?

After someone goes through weeks or months of work in a codeine addiction rehab center, the last thing they want is to have a relapse. Unfortunately, returning to normal life is not always easy. Individuals have to avoid being around friends who still use drugs or alcohol. They also have to watch out for locations and situations that may trigger a craving.

Through a codeine addiction rehab center, clients can learn about sober living options. These evidence-based addiction treatment programs give clients a transition period as they rebuild their lives. In a sober living environment, the client gets supervision as they go back to work. Group support meetings, individual counseling, and other aftercare options can also help prevent a relapse. The right program can help clients focus their energy on having long, healthy sobriety.

Discovering a Better Quality of Care

In a codeine addiction rehab center, clients can learn more about the different therapy options they can use. From family counseling to cognitive behavioral therapy, there are a number of treatments that can help. In addition, many clients benefit from getting peer support in a codeine rehab program. They can get feedback, share their own stories and learn important advice during group support meetings.

At the top codeine addiction treatment center, clients can find options such as:

• Trauma therapy
• Family counseling
• Holistic detox
• Cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy
• Grief and loss therapy
• Individual and group therapy

No one has to get help for substance abuse alone. If your codeine abuse is spiraling out of control, the right codeine addiction rehab center can help. At the Granite Recovery Centers, you can get the help you need to become sober. Our treatment centers can help with everything from the initial detox process to finding sober living homes. To learn more about our compassionate, evidence-based approach to treatment, call us today at 855.712.7784 .            

If you have tried to quit using benzodiazepines (benzos), but have failed, then you can get help for your addiction. Our benzo addiction rehab center provides complete treatment for addiction to all benzos regardless of your addiction. We can help you get off benzos for good and get back to a healthier lifestyle.

Our programs consist of evidence-based treatment and holistic treatment to promote wellness and long-term abstinence from drugs. With Granite Recovery, you do not have to battle your addiction anymore. Our benzo detox center in New Hampshire can help you take the first step to a full recovery.

Treatment at Our Benzo Addiction Rehab Center

While benzodiazepines can help your symptoms of depression or anxiety, they are also highly addictive. The biggest problem is that you may not realize you are addicted to them until you try to get off of them. Therefore, you may stay on the drug for several months or years.

Granite Recovery understands this type of addiction. Our treatments specialists are trained to help you get off of benzos and consider alternatives to treating your anxiety or depression. Some of the therapy and treatment programs we offer at our benzo addiction rehab center in New Hampshire include:

• Drug detox center
• Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient drug rehab
• Evidence-based treatment (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy)
• Holistic addiction therapy program
• Dual diagnosis treatment center
• 12 step programs and support groups

Also, we offer aftercare support once your initial benzo addiction treatment in Massachusetts has ended in rehab. Regardless of how severe your addiction is or how long you have been on your pills, we can help you end the cycle of addiction.

Medical Drug Detoxification

The first major step in your treatment is detox. During detox, you cut off your dependency to benzos. During this phase, your brain is readjusting to not having the drug, and your body is cleaning out the toxins. While this is a good thing, it can also produce withdrawal symptoms – some of them intense. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Most withdrawal symptoms include anxiety & depression, nausea or vomiting, insomnia, loss of appetite, or irritation. Your symptoms may last five to seven days, depending on the circumstances of your addiction. During this time, you will receive full support from Granite Recovery. An addiction treatment specialist will monitor your symptoms, give you medication-assisted treatment, if necessary, and even offer holistic therapy options. You do not have to go through detox alone.

Dual Diagnosis for Anxiety and Addiction

Anxiety is a natural reaction to stressful situations in your life. However, an anxiety disorder can cause destructive responses. For instance, your anxiety or depression is what led to your addiction. Many people like you end up in addiction due to mental disorders such as anxiety.

This is why dual diagnosis is the best approach to managing your condition. Dual diagnosis address two areas:

1. Your Mental Disorder

You receive a full diagnosis of your anxiety or depression. Once we determine your mental health issue, we provide a treatment plan specific to the disorder. Chances are, helping you manage your disorder properly will help you overcome your addiction.

2. Your Addiction

Your addiction is both a product of your mental health issue and also a contributor to your anxiety or depression symptoms. However, recovery from a benzo addiction may require a different approach to treating your mental health issue.

Dual diagnosis allows us to provide care that improves your whole being, not just one aspect of it. It is a comprehensive approach to treatment that will get you feeling better on all levels.

Get Help for Your Benzo Addiction Today

Granite Recovery’s benzo addiction rehab center may be the catalyst you need to put an end to your addiction to benzodiazepines. To find out more about your treatment options and schedule addiction therapy services, call us at 855.712.7784 . One phone call can change your life.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol rehab is a term that refers to programs that help a person abstain and oftentimes, detox from alcohol. Candidates for alcohol rehab have what is referred to as alcohol use disorder or AUD,  which means that the person cannot stop drinking and often drinks much more than they should. Here, we discuss what alcohol rehab is, how it works, and how it serves the person with AUD.

Alcohol Use Disorder is defined by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism as “problem drinking that becomes severe” – is common in the United States, with over 15 million adults exhibiting signs of AUD in 2015.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol Use Disorder presents a wide range of symptoms that can vary in severity and kind among different people. One’s history with alcohol, the reasons they drink, and their environment can all lead to different experiences of AUD. In general, Alcohol Use Disorder may be present when:

• one’s drinking begins to interfere with their life (mild to severe)
• alcohol negatively impacts a person’s physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, or social health
• one has a difficult time controlling the amount of alcohol consumed
• one has tried and failed to cut back on their alcohol consumption
• one has developed a tolerance to alcohol
• alcohol has impacted one’s job performance
• alcohol has impacted one’s social and personal relationships
• one has chosen to drink instead of participating in hobbies/interests that they previously enjoyed

Not all of these symptoms of AUD are obvious to outside observers. Some may not even be apparent to the drinker themselves. It is crucial for anyone consuming alcohol regularly to be completely honest with themselves about their drinking. Recognizing these symptoms early on can make recovery from alcoholism much easier than if one lets them linger and worsen. A comprehensive list of criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder can be read in the DSM-V.

While self-diagnosis is not always accurate, individuals should consult a medical professional to consider alcohol rehabilitation if AUD symptoms match their experience with alcohol to a significant degree.

The Relationship Between AUD and Binge Drinking

Many adults do not technically have Alcohol Use Disorder, but still engage in risky alcohol consumption, such as binge drinking. According to recent research, America’s already high rates of AUD are climbing, especially among women and minorities. One might wonder how binge drinking relates to alcohol use disorder. Binge drinking is an action that can signal an alcohol use disorder, and is at the minimum, evidence of a problematic and unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Binge drinking shows the following characteristics:

• you consume more than four drinks in a sitting
• you sometimes forget what happened when you drank
• you’ve considered cutting back on alcohol consumption
• you’ve felt guilty when you’ve drank too much
• you’re not sure how much you drank
• you have been told that you drink too much

With as many as 1 in 8 Americans suffering from AUD, one would hope that the majority of them were undergoing alcohol abuse treatment. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. Whether due to difficulty of accessing alcohol rehab or a lack of knowledge, less than 7 percent of AUD sufferers receive necessary medical treatment. Many people misunderstand Alcohol Use Disorder and fail to recognize when their symptoms constitute a problem. They may also be unaware of the range of care options available to them. Such knowledge is key to taking the necessary steps to pursue treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder.

Root Causes of Alcoholism

Alcoholism has many causes, which can be genetic, social, psychological, or environmental in nature. Most of the time, it is a confluence of these factors rather than one isolated issue.

Genetics and Alcoholism

Alcoholism runs in families, with genetics being responsible for roughly 45 to 60 percent of an individual’s risk for developing AUD. However, one who is genetically predisposed to alcohol issues may never develop a problem if, for example, they live in the optimum environment and run in social circles that don’t revolve around drinking.

Environment and Alcoholism

Environmental and social factors can include situations where alcohol use is easily accessible and encouraged, such as parties where binge drinking is commonplace. Peer pressure to abuse alcohol can be very compelling, especially among young adults of college age. This can take the form of offers to drink, behavioral modeling, or the idea that one is “supposed” to drink in order to have fun.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Similarly, a person with no genetic predisposition to develop an alcohol problem may drink on a regular basis as a coping mechanism to anesthetize themselves against painful mental and emotional issues. Researchers note that “while genetic differences affect risk, there is no ‘gene for alcoholism,’ and both environmental and social factors weigh heavily on the outcome”.

Psychological factors can play a significant role in the development or worsening of an Alcohol Use Disorder, with mental disorders like depression and anxiety increasing one’s risk for alcoholism and similar substance abuse issues. This speaks to the vital need for treatment for co-occurring disorders while undertaking alcohol rehab.

Consequences of Long-Term Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol Use Disorder can present profound consequences, not only to one’s health, but in every aspect of life. Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to:

• organ damage
• memory loss
• speech issues
• even coma or death from alcohol poisoning

In addition to countless short and long-term physical consequences, alcohol abuse also frequently damages vital social relationships with friends, family, and loved ones, jeopardizes one’s livelihood, exacerbates mental health issues, and destroys one’s sense of control over their life.

Knowing When to Explore Alcohol Rehab

People with severe AUD often find that alcohol no longer feels like just one problem that can be addressed. Instead, it becomes an insurmountable part of every physical, mental, emotional, and social facet of one’s life. In this situation, alcohol dictates every choice, thought, and action, to the exclusion and sacrifice of everything else. In the throes of such alcohol addiction, it can be difficult to know where to turn to get the help so desperately needed. If one’s alcohol use has reached such a point, it is time to consider a professional alcohol rehabilitation program.

What is Alcohol Rehab Like?

Alcohol rehabilitation (alcohol rehab) at a dedicated substance abuse treatment center can often prove to be the only effective method to truly recover from AUD for those with moderate to severe alcohol addiction. Alcohol Use Disorder is not easily overcome alone, given the presence of dangerous triggers, risky environments, and familiar challenges thwarting attempts at recovery. Professional care provided at a nationally accredited alcohol rehab such as Green Mountain Treatment Center is often critical.

Moreover, professional care that focuses solely on alcohol abuse, and not on its causes, is not enough. Alcohol’s grip on one’s life is often indicative of deeper problems that need to be addressed if sobriety and a better quality of life are to be achieved. Integrated care that addresses addictive thoughts, behaviors, and coping mechanisms, as well as the root causes of those thoughts and actions, is indispensable.

Types of Alcohol Rehab

Alcohol rehab varies from facility to facility, can be strictly clinically-focused, 12-step oriented, or take the form of a hybridized clinical/12-Step approach like that offered here at Granite Recovery Centers, which we call our R.E.S.T. Program.

Granite Recovery Centers in New Hampshire offer a full continuum of alcohol rehabilitation programs and substance abuse care across multiple facilities throughout the granite state. These services range from medical detox to inpatient alcohol drug and rehab programs, extended care, sober living facilities, and outpatient care. Below is a summary of our levels of care and how they fit together into a single, comprehensive continuum of care.

Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Medical Detox from Alcohol

Medical detoxification, which involves the removal of alcohol or drugs from the body as well as the management of withdrawal symptoms, can be the first step in recovery for those with moderate to severe alcohol or substance abuse issues. Granite Recovery Centers provides medical detoxification for people who do not need immediate medical intervention, are not a danger to themselves, and are capable of self-evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Alcohol withdrawal, which occurs when someone who frequently abuses alcohol discontinues use, can be especially difficult for severe drinkers due to the risk of serious physical symptoms such as:

• insomnia
• nausea
• shaking
• hallucinations
• seizures

Most clients detoxing from alcohol experience some degree of discomfort, but not to the same degree or severity as individuals with a history of severe, long-term alcohol abuse. Individuals with extreme cases of alcohol or substance abuse, in which hospital resources may be necessary, may wish to consider full acute detox care.

Our sub-acute medical detox facility at Green Mountain Treatment Center is supervised by medical professionals who are dedicated to keeping the client as comfortable as possible throughout the withdrawal process. Sub-acute detox means that we are equipped to help clients who require 24-hour monitoring and who have serious difficulties controlling their alcohol use. Read more about alcohol detox and withdrawal.

Inpatient Alcohol Rehab Center

Our alcohol use disorder rehabilitation program is offered at both Green Mountain Treatment Center and NFA Behavioral Health, and is structured around our R.E.S.T. program, which is a unique combination of 12-Step curriculum and clinical modalities.

What Happens After Alcohol Rehab (Inpatient)?

Studies have shown that length of stay in treatment is a “robust, positive predictor of treatment outcome”. 30 days may not prove sufficient to break down the negative habits and self-beliefs that led to addiction, nor long enough to develop new skills, strategies, and coping mechanisms that enable sustained sobriety.

This is why we often recommend that residents transition into some form of extended care or sober living for continued treatment. This allows for clients to continue working on themselves, practicing new skills in safe, controlled environments with increasing levels of freedom and challenges that guide them back into daily life at a comfortable pace.

Extended Care for Alcohol Recovery

Granite Recovery Centers offers gender-specific extended care options to patients who have completed a primary residential alcohol rehab program and wish to continue to develop recovery skills and undergo treatment. The transitional period between primary care and independent living can pose many challenges to an alcoholic or addict’s recovery. Extended care eases that transition, helping clients reinforce necessary skills and put healthy coping mechanisms into place while they adjust to a new lifestyle.

Our extended care facilities offer clients the ability to develop life and recovery skills in beautiful apartment-style housing, while providing them the structure and supervision that daily schedules, recovery meetings, and psychotherapy offer. Emphasis is placed on guiding clients through step work, teaching them vital life skills like money management and employment training, and slowly integrating more practical experiences of independent living.

Sober Living Facilities for Alcoholism

Sober living facilities perform a similar function to extended care, but with more freedom for clients. They are ideal for those who wish to start living independently while putting recovery skills into action, but need a safe, supportive environment with access to recovery resources to fall back on if difficulties should arise. Our sober living houses are based around supporting clients’ continued sobriety using 12-step work. Clients also develop responsibility with chores, employment, and the regular practice of life skills, all reinforced via accountability meetings and strong support from peer residents. All of this facilitates continued rehabilitation from alcohol, drugs, and the psychological and social roadblocks that led to their use in the first place.

Outpatient Care and Continued Sobriety

Outpatient care for recovering alcoholics is usually the last step of formal treatment. Outside of the controlled environments of primary treatment or sober living houses, recovering alcoholics will likely experience situations and opportunities that challenge their sobriety. Temptations and triggers to abuse alcohol can arise easily, whether at a social gathering or due to stressful life events.

Outpatient care is one way to continue developing skills and receiving support to healthily manage these situations. Granite Recovery Centers offers an Intensive Outpatient Program based around step work, individualized care, skill development, and community building. The goal is to provide clients with strategies that speak to their individual needs and struggles with sobriety, as well as an environment in which to discuss and work on those challenges with others in recovery.

Alcohol Rehab Center at Granite Recovery Centers

Alcohol doesn’t have to control one’s life forever. With the proper care, alcoholism and similar substance abuse issues can be treated, along with their underlying causes. Granite Recovery Centers’ integrated care model of 12-Step work and clinical psychotherapy attacks alcohol and substance abuse from every angle. With personalized treatment planning that focuses on each person’s goals, we push the client to not simply recover, but better themselves in every way.

With a full continuum of recovery care that meets clients where they are in their battle with alcohol, our team will help you or your loved one leave alcohol (and other drugs) behind, and build the life of lasting sobriety that you deserve.

If you or a loved one is struggling with an alcohol use disorder and want more information on our alcohol rehab centers in New Hampshire, please call our admissions specialists at 855.712.7784 .

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