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Can Xanax Be Prescribed to Minors?

admin — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 06:29:20 +0000

While anxiety and mood disorders have increased in the younger population, Xanax is typically not a doctor’s first medication of choice for this age group. This is because of the quick tolerance and likelihood of becoming dependent on the drug. Withdrawal symptoms from Xanax can be uncomfortable, making it difficult to quit this drug. Xanax in children should be thoroughly discussed with the prescribing doctor before choosing this method of drug addiction treatment. Benzos for depression are also not typically prescribed by doctors, as they commonly use antidepressants such as Zoloft or Prozac because these have less effects on the young brain. In some cases, minors presenting with more severe symptoms of anxiety or panic disorder may be prescribed Xanax and parents should keep in mind some of the concerning factors with this substance. What to do if your child accidentally took Xanax? Contact 911 or a medical professional immediately to ensure the safety of your child.

Understand Xanax

Xanax, otherwise known as Alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine that is used to treat anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and help with sleep disruptions. This is a short-term fast acting medication that calms the brain, reducing or eliminating symptoms of anxiety. Although Xanax can be beneficial for treating anxiety symptoms, it is not typically recommended to use long-term. Xanax is addictive and is commonly abused. A person can develop a tolerance for this drug, rather quickly causing them to become dependent on the drug to function regularly. Constant use of Xanax can lead to side effects, such as dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, etc. Mixing Xanax with other drugs, especially alcohol, can lead to black outs and fatalities. Long term Xanax use can lead to negative effects, and if you are considering this option for a child or teenager, it is important to understand the way it can affect the young brain.

Disorders for Which Children are Prescribed with Xanax

Although Xanax can be beneficial for different mental disorders, Xanax in children can come with some risks. Common disorders in which children are prescribed Xanax can include anxiety disorders (social anxiety, panic disorder, etc.), or sleep difficulties, such as insomnia. Your doctor should fully discuss this option when considering prescribing Xanax to a child.

Effects of Xanax on the Teenage Brain and Children

While Xanax is a prescribed medication, that does not mean it doesn’t come with different risks and effects on the teenage brain. People often assume Xanax is a better option than illicit drugs, which is true to a certain degree, but there is still a high risk of developing a dependence or an addiction to the drug. Xanax is a central nervous system depressant that has a calming effect while reducing brain activity. Young brains are still in the developmental stage, and allowing a substance such as Xanax to “relax” the brain can have damage on the growing individual and their brain. Xanax should only be used as a short-term method to relieve symptoms of anxiety. The teenage years are often a time of experimental drug use, and many teens begin drinking alcohol. This creates a huge risk of negative side effects, and can even lead to overdoses or fatalities. If your child or teen is prescribed medication, it is crucial they are aware of the risks of mixing Xanax with other drugs.

Short Term Effects of Xanax

There is a reason Xanax is the number one prescribed medication. The short-term effects may sometimes seem to outweigh the negative effects that could come with long term use. The short-term effects of Xanax include a relief from anxious thoughts or worries, while calming the individual’s nerves and giving them a euphoric feeling. The effects are fast acting, typically within the first 30 minutes after taking the substance, and can last up to 6 hours.

Long Term Effects of Xanax

While the relief of anxiety and a euphoric feeling may sound pleasant and desirable, the long term-effects are not as desirable. When a person begins taking Xanax more frequently and consistently, they will begin to develop a dependency for the drug. Xanax is used to help with anxiety, but when a person is dependent on the drug, their brain thinks it needs the drug to function properly. This is how Xanax addiction begins. In other words, long term effects of Xanax use include:

Tolerance to the drug
Dependency for the drug
Addiction to the drug

Xanax is also a difficult drug to quit, as the withdrawal effects can add discomfort, increased anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. When quitting Xanax, you should always seek help from a medical professional or a rehab facility, such as Forward Recovery (844-387-6889) to ensure safety throughout the detox phase and prevent possible relapse. Living with and managing mental disorders such as anxiety or panic disorder can be difficult, but there are healthier ways to help relieve some of the symptoms. If we can teach our children and teens healthier strategies to manage these symptoms, we can reduce the likelihood of them being prescribed Xanax and prevent them from becoming dependent or addicted to this substance.

Healthy Alternatives of Xanax for Children

The first thing to be considered when dealing with anxiety in children or teens, is different coping skills they may have to help manage these symptoms. Exercise, journaling, reading, or creating artwork are all examples of healthy coping skills for children and teens. Starting your child in therapy may also be a useful way for them to talk about triggers or reasons for their anxiety or panic disorder. Growing up in today’s high demand society comes with many different struggles and difficulties, but there are healthier and more efficient ways to help treat anxiety. Speak with your doctor about different options for your child or teen before jumping to the idea of starting them on Xanax. Citations GoodRX. “What is Xanax? Side Effects, Drug Interactions, Dosages and More.” https://www.goodrx.com/blog/taking-xanax-what-to-know/ Reviewed 25, October 2021 American Addiction Centers. “The Effects of Alprazolam Use.” https://drugabuse.com/benzodiazepines/xanax/effects-alprazolam-use/ Reviewed 16, July 2021

The post Can Xanax Be Prescribed to Minors? appeared first on Forward Recovery.

Any Idea Why do I Feel Depressed After Drinking

Lonnie — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 17:07:08 +0000

By Amy Marturana Winderl Ever wondered, “Why do I Feel Depressed After Drinking?“. The overwhelming feeling of depression and anxiety post-drinking is more common than you think. One can’t shake this horrible, gloomy, out-of-sync feeling all day. This is drinking depression, aka anxiety that happens due to the physiological and psychological Impact of Drinking too much. Alcohol alters brain chemistry and affects the central nervous system, triggering a temporary dopamine release. As blood alcohol concentration (BAC) rises, the body begins to experience more depressive symptoms and worsens negative emotions. Alcohol also messes with your body’s stress response, reducing the natural production of chemicals that calm you down.

Alcohol messes with the chemicals in your brain, leaving you feeling depressed and anxious

Alcohol impacts multiple neurological pathways in the brain, as well as the central nervous system, according to a 2014 study in the Indian Journal of Human Genetics. “What goes up must come down,” says George F. Koob, PhD, director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). At low doses, alcohol’s effects are stimulant-like—it makes you feel good and disinhibits your behavior because it prompts the production of feel-good chemicals in your brain. You feel relaxed and ready to socialize. If you continue to drink a second, third, or fourth drink, alcohol eventually will have the opposite effect. “How fast it happens depends on the dose, the person, and what you have in your stomach,” says Koob. After sparking the good chemicals, the brain has to make up for it and ends up increasing the production of feel-bad chemicals to compensate. “Part of it is hormonal because cortisol is activated and can trigger some of these neurochemical cascades as well,” he says. When you’re hungover, you’re experiencing this rebound effect—the good stuff has tanked and the bad stuff is very present. You feel really out of sync.

Lack of sleep can also contribute

Alcohol may help you fall asleep (pass out) faster, but when you’re drunk, you’re not getting high-quality sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, alcohol messes with your sleep hormones and interrupts your circadian rhythm, and it prevents you from getting REM sleep, which is the deep sleep we need to feel well-rested. Also, drinking makes you dehydrated, which can also disrupt you in the middle of the night, says Koob. All of these things can make it so you have a poor night of sleep, and wake up feeling exhausted. It’s very normal to feel irritable or just generally “meh” when you haven’t slept—alcohol or no alcohol.

Another contributing factor: Regret

Since alcohol disinhibits us, it can lead us to do things we wouldn’t normally do, says Renee Solomon, PsyD, a Beverly Hills-based clinical psychologist and CEO of Forward Recovery. “People can wake up feeling more depressed and anxious because of what they did the night before,” she says. Regretful behaviors can run the gamut—social, sexual, or even related to the foods you drunk ate before bed. “Sometimes after a night of drinking, people come home and binge eat, and the shame, depression, and anxiety are fueled even more by that behavior,” Dr. Solomon says. (Eating a bunch of greasy, carby food before bed isn’t going to be great for your sleep either.) Another thing that can be really anxiety-inducing: You don’t remember what happened the night before. “A blackout is a gap in the tape of our memory, and when you don’t remember what happened, it can trigger some anxiety and all of the physiological changes can add to that,” says Koob.

If you already have anxiety or depression, drinking can make it a lot worse

“People who have an anxiety disorder and then drink are going to have even bigger effects,” says Koob. If you’re being treated, he suggests asking your doctor to make sure it’s OK for you to even drink at all—it may be contraindicated for some depression and anxiety medications. And if you do have anxiety or depression, it’s important to make sure you’re not turning to booze to self-medicate. “Some people drink alcohol and use drugs to escape their feelings but it becomes a feedback loop: One drinks to escape depression and anxiety, and then those feelings make you want to drink more,” says Dr. Solomon. It’s important to not try and medicate drinking depression with another drink. It’s just going to make things worse.

Of course, not drinking too much is the number one solution

“Your best bet is to drink moderately, space out your drinking, drink a lot of water while you’re drinking, drink on a full stomach, not an empty stomach, and have non-alcoholic drinks available,” says Koob. Unfortunately, despite all the strongly marketed products out there, there’s no scientific evidence that any hangover remedies will actually work, he adds. Really, the best way to not have to deal with any hangover symptoms, whether that’s nausea, a headache, or drinking depression, is to avoid drinking so much in the first place. Your body and brain will thank you the next day.

If you’re already hungover, exercising may boost your mood

So, let’s say the damage is already done. “Don’t spend time beating yourself up for it,” Dr. Solomon says. “Understand what you did and learn from it, but don’t let it sink your ship all day.” What you should do is get up and go for a walk. “To feel better, you want to increase serotonin, which exercise can help do,” Dr. Solomon says. Just a walk should be sufficient—no need to subject yourself to a grueling workout when you’re feeling unwell, she says. Getting a dose of nature may be even better, she adds. “Getting out in a different environment can help clear your head.” However, it’s not easy, Koob says, because when you’re hungover you probably just want to curl up in bed. He suggests an easy first step: Get out of bed and get a glass of water. Once you’re up, you may feel more inclined to go for that walk.

Doing something productive is good, too

Dr. Solomon also suggests doing things that distract you and take your mind off feeling bad for yourself—no, that doesn’t mean lying on the couch watching a Grey’s Anatomy marathon. Connect with other people, or immerse yourself in an activity you enjoy to help you focus on something else than your bum mood. It may also make you feel good to do something that gives back to others, she suggests, as it “takes you out of your own head and gives you something else to focus on.” That doesn’t need to mean physically going somewhere—donating online to a charity you support or writing a letter to a friend you haven’t seen in a while can be the easy good-mood booster you need.

Resources to turn to

Koob suggests Rethinking Drinking, and the NIAAA website that provides information on alcohol and how to spot a potential problem and get help. You can also call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). It’s a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service. The organization’s website can also help you locate Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facilities in your area. You can find the original article here: https://www.thehealthy.com/mental-health/depressed-drinking/

The post Any Idea Why do I Feel Depressed After Drinking appeared first on Forward Recovery.

Chewy’s 2021 Self-Care Challenge

Lonnie — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 18:24:05 +0000

Let’s make 2021 the year of the personal reboot. This year, we’re setting attainable goals that benefit the overall wellness and happiness of ourselves and that of our pets—and we’re challenging you to join us. Reset, recharge and revitalize body and mind with Chewy’s 2021 Self-Care Challenge. We’re breaking down wellness into bite-sized pieces by dedicating each month of the new year to conquering one manageable activity. Taking care of yourself and pet isn’t about overhauling your entire life and routine, but rather making simple, sustainable changes and improvements gradually. Whether it focuses on nutrition, mental health or creativity, each small (yet impactful) challenge can benefit your and your pet’s emotional and physical health and push you both toward becoming happier, calmer and closer. Ready to tackle Chewy’s 2021 Self-Care Challenge? From January through December, check out each month’s task below.

January: Cook Up Comfort

It’s understandable to want to order takeout at the end of the day when you’re feeling wiped out or endlessly busy (especially with all the eating-in you’ve done over the past year). But according to a 2017 study, those who ate homecooked meals more frequently were found to have a healthier diet overall, so dedicate January to creating some new meals. Search for recipes containing some of your favorite ingredients to get you excited about trying something new, and aim to make one healthy, delish dish per week. And because it’s always more fun cooking for others than just for yourself, create some new, extra-scrumptious recipes for your pet, too. Make it a goal to whip up a DIY treat for them in January, and see our Chewy Eats recipes for options: Dog-friendly faux red velvet truffles, anyone? How about pumpkin mini muffins for cats? For an especially healthy option, try these low-fat “Green Machine” dog treats. While Chewy Eats recipes are vet-approved, keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to consult your own veterinarian before offering your pet new food items.

February: Get Crafty

In 2020, our Instagram feed was filled with at-home craft projects everyone seemed to pick up over the stressful months stuck at home. And with good reason, too, as getting creative actually boasts some impressive wellness benefits: A 2013 study in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy found that knitting, for example, can boost feelings of calm and contentment, while another study conducted by the BBC published in 2018 also explored the connection between crafting and positive psychological benefits. So, get crafty. Make a cast out of your pet’s pawprint (this handy kit comes with everything you need) or grab a canvas and try your hand at painting pet portraits or recycle your Chewy boxes by turning them into a DIY shark-shaped dog house or a cat castle.

March: Practice Yoga With Your Pet

If you already do yoga, then you know how the practice can help calm your mind and stretch your body. (If you’re unfamiliar, know that it can lead to more mindful eating, according to a study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, while another study found it may improve cognitive ability.) And you and your pet can actually enjoy these benefits together if you include them in your yoga routine. “Doing any type of exercise with your pet can increase endorphins, which helps a person feel better,” explains Renee Solomon, Ph.D., a Los Angeles-based clinical psychologist and CEO/owner of Forward Recovery. “If you have a pet who can sit with you while you do it, it also helps relax them. Pets love routine, so if they know you’re going to be sitting in the same position for an hour, they will often join you and can reap the benefits of being calm and quiet for [at least a few minutes of that] time.” And while your cat or dog is probably not going to master any poses other than a coincidental downward dog, they can also join you in simple, gentle stretches. Learn more about how to build a yoga routine with your pet here. (You can even help them look the part of a yogi with some stretchy yoga apparel made for dogs!)

April: Refresh Wellness Routines

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your wellness routine with an at-home facial or soak in a hot tub with a fragrant bath oil. It’s not just the treatment—it’s about taking a moment that’s just for you. If you’ve been neglecting your dry skin or normally only take quick showers, splurge on a new skin serum or relax with a bath bomb. Help your pet spring into a new wellness routine, too. Treat them to an at-home shampoo and conditioner session, complete with a thorough brushing. Take the time to tend to any small matts or knots they might have in their fur, which can be particularly bothersome and hard to spot day-to-day. Consider investing in beginner’s at-home grooming kit to help keep your pet’s coat healthy, clean and looking fabulous. And don’t make “spa night” a one-time thing: Work a soothing skincare treatment into your weekly wellness routine and keep up with your pet’s grooming sessions (try a pair of grooming gloves, designed to make brushing more enjoyable for your fur baby). You can even pamper yourselves with some DIY beauty treatments fit for both pets and people—like this dog-friendly blueberry facial and fur treatment.

May: Go Exploring

Do you find yourself going to the same locations with your dog again and again? Maybe you frequent a certain trail, a neighborhood route or a local dog park. This month, commit to go exploring with your four-legged adventure buddy and check out a new spot each week. It’s well documented that exercise can also be a great way to improve your mood, as Dr. Abisola Olulade, MD, of San Diego, California, explains, and moving around outside is an excellent way to make the experience enjoyable. “Exercise [can] improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and negative mood,” Dr. Olulade says. “Exercise outside is essentially a natural antidepressant …You can take in the scenery and sounds, and it often makes it all go by faster and is often more enjoyable.” Read up on these tips before hitting a new trail with your dog, and check out sites like AllTrails to find new, exciting dog-friendly trails in your area. Cats can get in on the action, too: Here are tips for hiking with your cat.

June: Swap Screen Time for Playtime

From Netflix binges to scrolling on social media, you’re not alone if you often find yourself glued to your screen. Approximately 80 percent of U.S. adults go online at least daily, according to a 2019 study conducted by the Pew Research Center. “When people become obsessed with their phones and social media, they are not present in their lives with people and even their pets,” Dr. Solomon told us. In June, make a conscious effort to turn off your screens and instead spend that time doing something interactive and fun with your pet. Set an alarm on your phone for an hour each day as a reminder, then lock it in another room so you’re not tempted to check it. This will cut down on distractions and help you stay engaged with your pet. If you’re a cat parent, have a play session with a feather teaser toy and be generous with the scratches and cuddles. If you have a dog (or adventurous kitty), take advantage of the warmer weather and frolic outside.

July: Get Better Beauty Sleep

Sleep an elusive dream? You’re not alone. In fact, it’s estimated that 50 to 70 million Americans chronically suffer from a disorder of sleep and wakefulness. You can set yourself up for sleep success by following these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

Head to bed at the same time and wakeup at the same time each morning (even on the weekends!)
Keep your bedroom quiet, dark and at a comfortable temperature—and free from noisy, distracting and light-producing electronic devices (like your TV, laptop and phone).
Exercise during the day.
Cut off caffeine well before bedtime (You typically want to stop consuming caffeine 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.)

Pets also need a certain amount of sleep to maintain optimum health. While it depends on your specific pet and their age, dogs typically need around 14 hours of shuteye per 24-hour period, while adult cats typically snooze 13 to 16 hours. Ensure your pet’s bed or crate is in a quiet and calm area of the house, and, to help you both get ready to turn in, incorporate your pet into your nighttime routine: Feed and walk your pet at the same time each evening and finish with a wind-down activity to help calm them (like a gentle brushing if they enjoy it). You can learn more about improving your cat’s sleeping habits here and your dog’s here.

August: Practice “Petitation”

“Petitation” could be the key to quieting your mind (who knew!). While a 2014 study found that meditating for a few minutes a day can help lessen feelings of anxiety and depression, some may find it hard to focus. Incorporating your pet into a meditation practice could better the experience. “I think it’s easier because you don’t have to focus on something so obscure,” Elisabeth Paige, a research associate at the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine and co-author of The Petitation Companion: Enhance the Lives of You and Your Pets with Mindfulness Meditation told Yoga Journal. We’re not talking a huge time commitment. For a few minutes each day this month, sit down on mat or on a comfy cushion and indulge in a bit of quiet time and peaceful stillness. Invite your pet to join you and experiment with syncing your breathing with your pet’s and gently petting them. (Allow them to get up and leave the mediation session if they wish—this should be enjoyable for both of you!) Learn more about meditating with your pet here.

September: Learn Something New

Come September, school is back in session, marking the perfect time to remember that it’s never too late for you or your pet to learn something new. Mastering a new skill can help you feel more confident in yourself, while helping your pet exercise their cognitive abilities. “Learning something or participating in a new social activity can help to protect against a decline in cognition,” says Dr. Olulade, noting that research suggests this is due to neurogenesis, the creation of new neurons in the brain. If your dog hasn’t mastered a fresh trick since puppyhood, the two of you can expand your knowledge of obedience and agility training. Learn how to get your pup to shake paws here, or explore agility exercises by outfitting your backyard with Cool Runners Agility Dog Training Weave Poles and reading up on clicker training. Or, if you’re the fur mama or papa to particularly confident kitty, consider leash training them and exploring the great outdoors together. (See how to get started here.)

October: Find Your Pack

Make new friends with a shared interest: your love for your animals! Befriending fellow pet parents is a great way to expand your social circle—and, if your pet gets along well with others, they’ll likely enjoy meeting new friends, too. The next time you head out to the dog park, try striking up a conversation with other pup parents there. The best part is that you have a built-in conversation starter—your dogs! Ask them about their pets or how often they visit this dog park, or compliment their training or cute collar. After you feel comfortable (and you see that your dogs get along), you can suggest going for a group dog walk with your new crew. You can also look into “meet-up” groups to find local animal lovers and pet parents. Try apps like Meetup, Bumble and Meet My Dog. (Meetup also offers the option for online events for social distancing.)

November: Make Gratitude Your Attitude

It’s a Thanksgiving tradition to state what you’re thankful for, so there’s no better time to put into words how grateful you are for your pet and their companionship. Writing out exactly what you love about your fur baby is a great way remind yourself how lucky you are to have them in your life. “Writing your feelings down, in terms of gratitude, in a love letter to your pet [may] help improve one’s mental health tremendously,” Dr. Solomon says. “Gratitude forces us to look at the positive in our lives. It helps us to stop focusing on just the negative and see the full picture.” Maybe mention how much fun you and your pet have finding new hiking trails and meeting other pet parents, or reflect on how your cuddle sessions help you through stressful situations. After you’ve written your letter, read it aloud to your pet while treating them to plenty of head scratches and belly rubs.

December: Do Good

Take all the positive energy you’ve created over the past year with your pet and pay it forward. Walk dogs at a local shelter, consider fostering another furry friend or find another way to be charitable. “Seek reputable rescues whose funding goes 100 percent towards their rescuing efforts,” suggests Maydy Bran-Orona, a volunteer with the SoCal Animal Rescue Squad (S.C.A.R.S.). “Donations also go a long way,” she says, noting that toys, blankets, pet food, treats and flea medications are typically always needed by rescues (although you should contact your local organization to see what they specifically need). However you choose to give back, volunteering may just help you as much as it helps someone else. “Volunteering has been linked to lower stress and anxiety and also increased overall happiness,” Dr. Olulade explains. “It distracts your brain from your own anxiety.” Doing good and feeling good—there’s simply no better way to close out the year.

The post Chewy’s 2021 Self-Care Challenge appeared first on Forward Recovery.

NEVER say these things if you want your relationship to last, experts warn

Lonnie — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 13:58:18 +0000

Leading love experts weigh in with the words you should NEVER say if you want to keep your relationship strong.

Despite coupling looking more attractive than ever thanks to social distance and the innate desire to form human bonds, the National Center for Health Statistics reports that marriage rates have hit an all-time low. The national marriage rate fell from 6.9 to 6.5 marriages per 1,000 people in the last studied year on record, following a long, slow decline since the 1980s. Given the lower-than-ever marriage rates and steady divorce rates, you may be wondering: what gives? People still want to find and maintain love, but it seems like toxic words could be making it harder than ever, and ruining the good relationships we have built.

Photo by Everton Vila on Unsplash Cupid isn’t an endangered species though, and the will to love will continue as it has for thousands of years (if not longer). One of the most important keys to forming bonds that truly last is avoiding the words and actions that trigger breaking those bonds, and it goes far beyond the hypothetical. The National Library of Medicine even published research outlining that the feelings of hurt and anger both have their place in the human experience, but can do permanent damage to fragile interpersonal relationships — especially non-blood bonds.

Here’s what experts say you should NEVER utter if you want your love to last:

“Relax!”

If you want to get someone really riled up, try telling them to relax in the middle of a heated conversation or argument. “This is especially objectionable when men say this to women,” tells Deborah Krevalin, LPC, LMHC, a psychotherapist and relationship expert of the cringe-worthy word. “It trivializes her feelings, deeming them and her unimportant.”

“You sound just like your mother!”

Ooph, that will not go over will with just about anyone of any age or gender. “If you say this, you’ve just ruined any chance of having sex. A partner can smack talk about his or her mother, but the significant other NEVER has permission to do it,” Kevalin says of this dicey phrase. “Not only is it insulting, but it can make future family functions tense or awkward.”

Photo by Icons8 Team on Unsplash

“I wish you more more like…”

Comparing your significant other to anyone else is a recipe for disaster, and it really doesn’t matter who you’re measuring them up against — a past lover, family member, or other acquaintance. Dr. Fran Walfish, a Beverly Hills psychotherapist and aither of The Self-Aware Parent says this is one of the absolute worst things you can say to a loved one. Comparison words are “Too critical, negative, and harsh,” she says, adding that “No one wants to give their body to someone who is quick to put them down.”

Stop talking about THIS in bed.

Sure, intimacy is important, but if it’s another emotionally-loaded topic? Leave it at the door, or it’ll kill your bond. Walfish says couples should member to never bring up “Emotionally-loaded topics like the kids, in-laws, finances, income and spendings, the desire to sell or buy a new house, or conflicts during love making. You will kill the moment.”

And if you think it’s just one moment, think again — conversations have a tendency to become patterns, and repeated stressed-out time in bed can have a crippling effect on otherwise healthy relationships.

“I hate your friends.”

“This is a tricky statement to navigate because you genuinely may not like your partner’s best friend,” explains Karol Ward, LCSW, a licensed psychotherapist, confidence expert, and the author of, Worried Sick: Break Free From Chronic Worry To Achieve Mental & Physical Health. “Unless the friend is abusive or driving a wedge between you and your romantic partner, you will have to stay back from this statement. People choose friends for different reasons and if you significant other is happy hanging out with his or her best friend, then refrain from saying anything.”

Photo by cloudvisual on Unsplash

“I don’t respect you.”

“This statement is one that will absolutely destroy your relationship,” says Ward of the often-used silver bullet. “Unless your partner is displaying some obvious behavior that is harming your relationship, it’s wise to ask yourself what you are really saying. Often critical remarks by us towards another person are just a cover for our own unhappiness. Really contemplate what you are trying to say before you tell someone you don’t respect them.”

“I want a divorce!” (or a break-up)

“Saying you want a divorce or break-up very time you have a conflict demonstrates to your partner that you are not willing to work things out and are ready to terminate the relationship with every rupture,” shares Sidonie Freeman, a California-based psychologist. “Over time, this can really create cracks in a relationship that make it impossible to trust the other and feel secure.”

“YOU ARE CRAZY!”

Oh boy, buckle up. This ride is about to get very, very bumpy if you plan on uttering these very dangerous words, or anything like them, for that matter. Dr. Markesha Miller, a licensed psychotherapist, warns against ever using this phrase in an argument. “It implies that one is mentally deranged,” she says. “Many times, a partner may hear this and feel misunderstood and minimized. Crazy is a word that should NOT be used to describe your significant other if you want your relationship to last. Avoid using this statment.”

Photo by Heather Mount on Unsplash

“Actually, my ex…”

Stop bringing up your ex. Don’t talk about them. Don’t contact them. Don’t let their name slip from your lips if you want to make your current relationship last. “Don’t mention past bad relationships,” explains Bonnie Winston, a popular matchmaker. “It shows you can be vindictive and taints you, as well as portrays you in a negative light moving forward. Continued talk about an ex is just something that isn’t necessary.” Winston continues, “Don’t say they remind you of an ex, don’t bring up that you’re good friends with all your exes, skip mentioning that your ex is a terrible person, and definitely don’t post about your ex on social media.”

“Get over it!”

“These words automatically imply to the offended partner that whatever was said,done, etc., is being disregarded,” details Sharon Gilchrest O’Neill, Ed.S., a prolific author of relationships-focused books. “It implies that the offended partner was not attended to by the person who supposedly loves them. It suggests the offender is not on the same page with what is necessary to move forward. It suggests that he or she needs to ask how they might help the other to ‘get over it,’ even if it might not seem necessary in their eyes.”

“You’re overreacting!”

Break out a shield and some armor, because things will get very heated if you add this fuel to the fire says Anita Chlipala, a licensed marriage and family therapist and author of First Comes Us: The Busy Couple’s Guide to Lasting Love. “Phrases like you’re overreacting, you’re so sensitive, get over it already, you’re crazy, and I was just joking are all examples of gaslighting,” she illustrates. “It’s a term used to describe manipulative behavior with the purpose of getting the recipient to doubt their experiences and reactions. You can’t have a healthy relationship when there’s gaslighting because things like safety, security, and connection get eroded with every comment. You also can’t be fully self-expressed or vulnerable with your partner.”

Photo by Vincent van Zalinge on Unsplash

“You never think of anyone but yourself.”

“You want to avoid criticizing sentences where you attack their essential character,” says April Brown, LMFT, a marriage and family therapist at The Heard Counseling. “Examples like you never think of anyone but yourself, or you are always so selfish target your partner’s personality and characteristics. You might express that it upsets you when they don’t think of your experience, but when a couple is critical of each other it leaves the partners feel hurt and rejected, paving the way for distance, contempt and resentment- even worse then criticism.”

“Your mom is soooooo…”

This isn’t going to end well no matter how you cut it, which is why Caroline Madden, PhD, a marriage and family therapist and the author of Fool Me Once: Should I Take Back My Cheating Husband?, warns you should watch your step when you’re poking around mom topics. “Even if your spouse is frustrated or wounded by their mom — stay out of it. It leaves your partner feeling torn.” she says of this no-win scenario. “It is a natural instinctual reaction to protect ones mother. It will quickly go from them being angry at their mom to defending them against them. If you stay out of it then your spouse and concentrate on what is bothering them about their mom versus changing the subject to you or launching a defense of their mom. Be there for support and empathize with their feelings without agreeing about whatever negative thing they are saying about their mom.”

“Stop eating that!”

Are you the food police? We hope not. “One of the most hurtful things a partner can do is comment on someone’s choices about food and weight,” Shari Botwin, LCSW and the author of Thriving After Trauma: Stories of Living and Healing. “Most men and women struggle with body image issues. And some people who have had or are currently battling with binge eating or emotional eating will hear this as a rejection or judgement. If a partner is concerned about his/her spouse’s eating habits it is better to say things like ‘Are you okay because I am noticing you are making less healthy food choices?'”

Photo by We-Vibe WOW Tech on Unsplash

“You’re boring in bed!”

Well, that’s the quick way to kill someone’s motivation to please, and maybe their desire. “Never tell your somone they’re boring in bed,” says Jonathan Alpert, a Manhattan and Washington, D.C. psychotherapist and author of Be Fearless: Change Your Life in 28 Days. “Instead, suggest ways to enhance what you have. For example, you might say, ‘I love that we are so close and can explore ways to satisfy each other,’ and then make some constructive suggestions.

“Calm down!”

This statement, much like it’s close family members Relax and Get Over It, is a recipe for relationship disaster. “This completely invalidates the other person’s feelings,” Dr. Renee Solomon, a clinical psychologist and the CEO of Forward Recovery says. “It basically says that you are overreacting and there is no merit to the feeling. This response to someone sharing feelings can make a person feel like he/she is not in a relationship where it is safe to share vulnerable feelings. It can make one feel like his or her partner is trying to be controlling and will make the person either feel very angry or very insecure. That type of response shuts down all further communication on that topic.”

“I don’t love you (anymore)!”

You can just imagine how hurtful these words can be. “Even when you apologize after the fact and say that you were just mad and didn’t mean it, once it’s said it can take years to remove that doubt that is in your partners mind about the fundamental heart of your relationship,” explains Dr. Brenda Wade, an advisor to Online For Love. “If you’re saying this because you really do want to end the relationship and you have fallen out of love, there are much better ways to express this without suggesting that the relationship was never real.”

And remember, honesty isn’t just about not telling lies.

One of the most important things to remember in a healthy committed relationship is that communication is of the utmost importance, which is why it should be treated as ‘safe space’ for delicate, personal information. Dr. Jessica Griffin, a clinical and forensic psychologist and the fan-favorite doctor on the popular reality TV show Married at First Sight, stresses that private information cannot be kept private between spouses.

“Your relationship should be your safe place, your respite from the rest of the world — which is why boundaries within the context of your ‘couple bubble’ are critical to the success of your relationship,” Griffin expounds. “Intimacy and vulnerability lead to trust, and each partner needs to be able to count on the other to keep private information private. For example, imagine that your partner opened up to you about very personal information they weren’t willing or ready to share with others. If you ran off and told your friends about it, chances are they’d be less inclined to open up with you, inhibiting the level of emotional intimacy in your relationship. If you aren’t sure what’s ‘off limits’ to discuss with others, couples are advised to be explicit about what is private and personal versus what can be shared.”

This article was originally published on News Break (https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2150788785620/never-say-these-things-if-you-want-y)

The post NEVER say these things if you want your relationship to last, experts warn appeared first on Forward Recovery.

Dr. Solomon discusses ways to cope with grief during COVID-19 pandemic

Lonnie — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 13:49:53 +0000

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on a whole new surge of emotions, including fear, isolation and the toughest of all, grief. This virus has stolen so much, and many who’ve lost loved ones, haven’t even been able to say goodbye — so they end up turning to unhealthy ways to cope. “I’ve seen people use drugs, more than ever before. Feeling isolated and people losing family members and friends. A lot of people coming to me because they have substance abuse issues that have gotten so out of hand because they are just home all the time so there’s no real delineation between home time and work time,” said Dr. Renee Solomon, a Psychologist and CEO of Forward Recovery. Patrick Casale, a health insurance broker in Las Vegas, recently just lost his mother to the deadly virus and says the hardest part was not being able to be with her when she took her last breath. “It’s the hardest thing I ever had to do in my life; Not say goodbye to my mother and hold her and tell her I love her, Casale said. “I can’t believe how many people I actually know that had COVID or passed away from it.” Dr. Solomon says normalcy and connectiveness is key when coping with this kind of grief. “Whatever makes you feel normal, so trying to figure out how you can do certain activities. Whether exercise or connecting with friends over zoom or over facetime how ever you can feel connected to family and friends is so important right now,” she said. Casale says that in March he plans on having a ceremony in his mother’s honor. He plans to spread her ashes in her home state of New York. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. Link to article: https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/psychologist-discusses-ways-to-cope-with-grief-during-covid-19-pandemic/

The post Dr. Solomon discusses ways to cope with grief during COVID-19 pandemic appeared first on Forward Recovery.

Safe and Effective Strategies for Alcohol Detox

Lonnie — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 15:45:13 +0000

Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is defined by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) as “a chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational or health consequences.” According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), there are more than 14 million adults in the U.S. living with Alcohol Use Disorder. Men make up the larger portion of that group at 8.9 million, while women comprise the remaining 5.2 million. Unfortunately, alcoholism doesn’t just affect adults over the age of 18. The same survey found that 414,000 kids ages 12 to 17 also struggled with AUD in 2019. Only about 8% of adults and 5% of youth with AUD sought treatment according to the survey.

Signs and Causes of Alcoholism

There are many factors believed to influence whether or not someone develops a problem with alcohol. Genetics, environment, and childhood trauma are some of the influences that experts believe increase a person’s chance of developing AUD. Researchers are still studying other potential causes to help develop a more complete picture of not only the disease of alcoholism but also how to best treat it. Signs that someone has a problem with alcohol include:

experiencing cravings or urges to drink
being unable to stop drinking, even when the person wants to
engaging in dangerous situations, such as driving a car, while drinking
foregoing activities an individual once enjoyed because of alcohol use
needing to increase the amounts a person drinks to achieve their desired level of intoxication
having physical withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, tremors or seizures if the person stops drinking

Short and Long Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse

In addition to safety concerns stemming from drinking and driving, drinking can also damage a person’s health both in the short and long term. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), short-term risks include:

violence, including homicide
suicide
sexual assault and intimate partner violence
alcohol poisoning, a medical emergency that results from high blood alcohol levels
risky sexual behaviors, including unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners
miscarriage and stillbirth or fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs)

Chronic illness and concerns that result from excessive use of alcohol over time can include:

High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems
Cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and colon
Weakening of the immune system, increasing the chances of getting sick
Learning and memory problems, including dementia and poor school performance
Mental health problems, including depression and anxiety
Social problems, including lost productivity, family problems, and unemployment
Alcohol use disorders or alcohol dependence

How Does Alcohol Affect the Body?

A standard alcoholic drink in the U.S. contains 0.6 ounces of pure alcohol. This translates to a 12-ounce of beer with a 5% alcohol content, 5 ounces of wine with a 12% alcohol content, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits or liquor (such as gin, rum, vodka, whiskey) with a 40% alcohol content. Excessive drinking includes both binge drinking and heavy drinking. The CDC defines binge drinking as four or more drinks per occasion for a woman and five or more for a man. Heavy drinking is eight or more drinks for a woman during one week, 15 or more for a man. A person is considered to have an alcohol use disorder when their drinking — no matter what form it takes — has become chronic and harmful to their lives and the lives of those around them. Because alcohol has a sedating effect on the brain, long-term abuse of alcohol causes the brain to change its own chemistry by producing higher levels of neurotransmitter chemicals like serotonin (similar to adrenaline) to offset this slowing reaction. Obvious effects of alcohol can occur after only a few drinks, including slurring of words, problems walking, and memory issues. These typically go away after the alcohol has left the person’s system. But excessive drinking over a longer period can result in longer-lasting, even permanent, changes. For instance, while impaired memory is a side effect of several drinks, longer memory lapses, and even complete memory blackouts are possible when individuals consume large quantities of alcohol regularly. Excessive drinking over a longer period of time can also result in a deficiency of thiamine, or vitamin B1. All tissues need this vitamin, including the brain. Vitamin B1 helps the body turn sugar into energy. Without sufficient vitamin B1, a person is at a higher risk of developing Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome. Though short-lived, Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome can lead to mental confusion, double vision or other eye problems, paralysis of the nerves that move the arms and legs, and difficulty with muscle coordination. Another part of this syndrome, Korsakoff’s psychosis, is more debilitating. A chronic syndrome, Korsakoff’s can lead to persistent learning and memory problems, as well as hallucinations and issues processing information. The resulting problems typically can’t be reversed, although if it is caught early enough some recovery is possible. While liver damage as a result of alcoholism is a common concern, alcohol-induced liver damage can also cause hepatic encephalopathy. This condition can impact a person’s sleep patterns, mood, and personality. It may also result in anxiety and depression, shortened attention spans, and problems with coordination. It is even possible for someone to slip into a coma, which can be fatal.

The Importance of Seeking Treatment

If you or a loved one has shown several of the symptoms of alcohol use disorder listed above, it may be time to consider treatment. The more symptoms the person has, the more serious the need for them to make lifestyle changes to preserve their health and well-being. It is important to seek out a professional, like the trained experts at Forward Recovery, to help overcome an addiction to alcohol. Not only can an addiction treatment professional help diagnose alcohol use disorder, but they can also advise the individual on their best course of treatment. One reason it is vital that a person with AUD consult a health care professional is because of the risks posed by alcohol withdrawal. Quitting alcohol cold turkey typically results in a variety of physical withdrawal symptoms that can include trembling (shakes), insomnia, anxiety, and other physical and mental symptoms. Unlike a hangover, which typically goes away after a day at most, alcohol withdrawal can last for days or even longer. The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may even get worse with time. Each person will experience withdrawal differently, but the most common symptoms are:

A craving to consume alcohol. This may be partly to ease the physical feelings of withdrawal, but it can also be due to a desire to be drunk.
Changes in mood. While drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can result in temporary euphoria or happiness, withdrawal from alcohol can have the opposite effect and leave the person feeling anxious and miserable.
Issues sleeping. Alcohol withdrawal may leave an individual feeling exhausted yet unable to sleep.
Vomiting. Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of withdrawal for many with AUD.
Physical reactions. Tremors, increased heart rate, and sweating are a few of the physical manifestations of alcohol withdrawal.
Hallucinations. People who are in the process of alcohol withdrawal may hallucinate. These substance-induced periods of psychosis can be frightening or even make the person doubt their sanity.
Seizures. Seizures are also possible when someone is going through alcohol withdrawal.

The risks that arise from alcohol withdrawal symptoms make it important that someone with AUD seeks out professional help before attempting to detox on their own.

Three Safe Strategies for Alcohol Detox

When it comes to treatment for alcoholism, most people are familiar with 12-step programs or inpatient rehab. However, these are not an option until the individual has undergone detox to remove the addictive substance from their system. No matter how long someone has been dealing with alcohol addiction, they can always seek treatment. There is no optimal time to seek help for alcohol abuse. But to be safe, individuals should always start with medically supervised detox from a licensed professional provider. While you may be tempted to detox on your own, an at-home detox does not provide the same level of support or safety as a supervised program. For example, many at-home detox plans suggest simply tapering off alcohol usage over time. Unfortunately, this can provide a false belief that stopping drinking is an easy process that requires minimal effort and is not dangerous. In reality, detoxification from alcohol can pose significant health risks, including:

Vomiting
Intestinal difficulties
Headaches
Seizures
Heart attack
Panic attacks
Depression
Breathing challenges
Dehydration
Delirium tremens, a life-threatening hallucinatory condition

The following are three safe ways to start on a path to addiction recovery through safe, supported detox.

1. Hospital-based alcohol detox

Hospitals are good choices for detox for individuals with high medical needs, such as severe alcoholism, which may require the resources of hospital staff. Most individuals, however, are able to safely detox under the care of a residential detox facility.

2. Residential alcohol detox

This type of detox program is the most accessible option for most people seeking to begin their recovery. These programs provide safe and comfortable residential treatment that is overseen by a licensed, professional medical staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These detox programs can provide medications to help individuals through the detox process when needed, as well as offer referrals to appropriate addiction treatment programs.

3. Outpatient alcohol detox

This detox option doesn’t require a person to live on-site as they undergo the detox process. Outpatient detox is, therefore, more flexible and well-suited for someone who can’t separate themselves completely from their work and family obligations. This option works best if an individual’s home environment is stable or if they are dealing with a less serious drinking problem.

Choosing the Right Alcohol Detox Program

There is no single treatment that works for everyone when it comes to overcoming an addiction to alcohol. A responsible first step should include a conversation with a primary care doctor or an addiction treatment professional about available options. Working together with the individual in recovery, they can assess their overall health and help to craft a detox plan that will work best for that person’s needs and lifestyle. When choosing a detox program, individuals in early recovery should consider the following questions:

Does the detox program being considered offer the best methods to address the person’s specific needs? Different programs and facilities use different approaches, as well as offer different levels of medical care and supervision. Make sure to fully understand the detox approach of a potential provider before making a choice.

Does the program customize the detox process for each individual? There is no one magic program that helps every individual through detox the same way. For example, an individual undergoing detox for severe alcoholism will have different medical needs than someone detoxing from cocaine use. A responsible detox facility should work to tailor treatments to each unique person to be as safe and effective as possible.

Does the detox program make it clear what is expected of each person seeking help? It is also the responsibility of each patient to play a role in managing their alcohol detox process. Be sure that all expectations are clear up front before selecting a detox program.

Does the detox program provide any measurement of its success rate and the criteria it uses to measure success? When selecting a detox facility, it can be helpful to have some understanding of how many patients go on to successfully complete addiction treatment, for example.

Does the detox program provide round-the-clock medical supervision? Most residential detox providers will provide 24-hour medical supervision. Outpatient programs, by design, offer less medical care. Make sure the level of medical care matches the needs of the individuals, their addiction history, and their recovery goals.

Whichever detox program a person chooses, they should feel respected and validated by that facility and its staff. While the detox process can be uncomfortable, a team of doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals should guide patients through a safe and supervised process that is respectful and non-judgmental.

After Alcohol Detox: Ongoing Recovery

After the initial detox period, there is a range of behavioral treatments and even medications that can assist someone in maintaining their sobriety.

Behavioral treatments for alcohol abuse

Behavioral treatments typically involve working with a trained counselor who can help guide a client through changing harmful or negative behaviors. The therapist can also assist the individual in gaining a better understanding of any underlying issues that may be contributing to their drinking problem. The goal of this type of therapy is to help the individual develop the skills they need to stop their drinking and maintain their sobriety. Behavioral treatments show someone how to set reachable goals and how to cope with triggers that may lead them to relapse. It also can guide them towards creating a strong support system. Types of behavioral treatments include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), neurofeedback, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EDMR).

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) aims to change a person’s thought processes, including those that may have influenced their excessive drinking in the first place. This therapeutic approach also promotes skills to help identify feelings that have led to heavy drinking as well as ways to cope with those same stressful situations without alcohol. CBT can be done one-on-one with a therapist or in a group setting.

Therapeutic techniques like neurofeedback and EMDR use technology to help individuals better manage stressful or anxiety-provoking triggers that can prompt a return to drinking. For example, if individuals are struggling with traumatic memories and using alcohol to self-medicate, they can use these therapies to better identify and cope with these intrusive experiences.

Additionally, a person in active recovery may want to pursue family counseling to help incorporate their loved ones in their recovery journey. Not only can this play a powerful and positive role in the individual’s treatment process, but it also can help to repair any relationships that were damaged as a result of the person’s excessive drinking. Many reputable treatment programs include family therapy programs that involve family members and loved ones in the therapeutic process. Most research indicates that some combination of behavioral therapy, peer support, and detoxification is most effective for long-term recovery. For some individuals, medication may also be able to assist with recovery. It’s important to note, however, that medication is not an instant solution to addiction and should be used in combination with behavioral therapy.

Medications for alcohol abuse

NIAAA currently recognizes three medications that are available to help people stop or prevent their drinking, as well as prevent possible drinking relapses. These prescriptions work to counterbalance the damage alcohol may have done to a person’s brain. Individuals should always use these medications in conjunction with other treatments, such as support groups, therapy, or both to further strengthen someone’s sobriety. These medications require authorization and a prescription from a healthcare provider. The three medications currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are:

Naltrexone — helps reduce heavy drinking
Acamprosate — works to maintain abstinence
Disulfiram — stops the metabolism of alcohol in the body, causing nausea and other unpleasant symptoms, which assists some to avoid drinking

Peer support groups

Finally, there are peer-directed groups that can offer support and encouragement for someone trying to stay sober. The most famous is Alcoholics Anonymous. These 12-step group programs can be especially helpful in terms of establishing accountability for an individual’s sobriety. They also provide coping skills and advice on topics including managing triggers and repairing relationships. And, because of their focus on anonymity, individuals can rest assured that their participation will remain confidential. Family and friends of a person dealing with alcohol issues can help in the process of recovery by also participating in a peer support group. Care and compassion from loved ones can play a crucial component in an individual’s ability to achieve and maintain sobriety. If a family member is unsure of how to best support their loved one, contacting a support group for family and friends, such as Al-Anon Family Groups or Adult Children of Alcoholics, can be a good resource. Remember that overcoming an alcohol addiction is not an easy or fast process. It will take time, and most likely there will be relapses. Try to have patience with your family member or loved one as they work toward a sober life. Finally, recognize the effort that your loved one is making. Simply letting them know that you recognize the work they are doing can help them and provide the support they need. If you are concerned that you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol abuse, Forward Recovery can help. Our staff has decades of combined experience treating addiction, and those years have given us a grounded perspective and expert knowledge about which available treatment methods are effective. If you are in the Los Angeles area, contact us today at (844) 387-6889 for help.

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How to Help a Spouse Struggling With Substance Use

Lonnie — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 16:14:24 +0000

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA, reported that in 2019, more than 19 million people in the U.S. had a substance abuse disorder. Think your spouse may have an addiction problem? Common signs include:

Your spouse spends an increasing amount of time away from home without you.
They prioritize alcohol and/or drugs above other responsibilities.
You notice money disappearing without an explanation.
They put their life or the lives of others at risk when intoxicated by driving.
They are struggling at work or have lost their job.
They seem disconnected from their surroundings.

Unfortunately, substance abuse among spouses or long-term partners is a challenge that many Americans are unable to overcome. A 2003 study looked at data from an 18-year national longitudinal study and found the third most commonly reported cause of divorce was drinking or drug use.

5 Strategies For Dealing With A Spouse’s Substance Abuse

If you have a spouse that is struggling with substance use, how can you help them and yourselves? Here are five ways: 1. Focus on the problem

Your spouse’s addiction is not a personal reflection on you, nor is it the only attribute that defines your spouse. Addiction is a disease, a problem that you and your spouse have to deal with in the same way you would a cancer diagnosis, for example. It is important to try and separate your spouse from their addiction if you want to be able to work on a solution together.

2. Help, don’t enable

Supporting your spouse in recovery does not mean allowing them to continue to abuse drugs or alcohol. Signs you’re enabling your spouse include making excuses or lying to cover for your addicted loved one’s absence at an event or protecting them from any negative consequences of their addiction.

3. Make sure you are practicing self-care

You shouldn’t ignore your own well-being. It is important to not only continue to eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep, but also you must try not to let your addicted spouse’s negative moods impact you.

4. Seek outside support

Helping yourself can be an important way to help your spouse. If you haven’t connected with a therapist, a support group (such as Al-Anon), or another professional, it is important that you do so to help you manage your stress.

5. Attend couple’s therapy

To help your spouse maintain their sobriety, addiction professionals often recommend couple’s therapy with someone who specializes in addiction and family dynamics. This provides both of you with the support and the tools you need to navigate recovery and acknowledge each person’s needs.

Sometimes, you can do all of these things right and it may still be too hard to support your spouse and maintain your marriage. Even if the relationship cannot be saved, it is still important to focus on the five things above to help you both in the long term. Do you think your spouse is struggling with substance abuse? Forward Recovery can help. Contact one of our licensed mental health and substance abuse professionals today at (844) 387-6889. Located in Los Angeles, Forward Recovery is owned and operated by local clinicians who take a structured approach to treatment, providing integrated and trauma-informed therapy.

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How to Approach a Family Member About Their Substance Use

Lonnie — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 15:56:38 +0000

Substance abuse is an issue that affects not only the individual but everyone around them, including friends and loved ones. If your family member or loved one is experiencing challenges with their use of drugs or alcohol, read on for tips on how to best assist them.

Signs of Substance Abuse In A Loved One

The first step to helping a family member or loved one with a substance abuse issue is determining if they do, in fact, have a problem. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends answering the following questions as honestly as possible to determine if there is an issue:

Does your loved one take more than the prescribed amount of the drug or for longer than prescribed?
Have they mentioned wanting to reduce or stop taking the drug but can’t?
Are they spending a great deal of time getting, using, or recovering from the drug?
Does your family member crave the drug?
Have they struggled with responsibilities because of their drug use?
Is their drug use causing relationship problems, but they aren’t able to stop?
Have they given up activities because of their drug use?
Are they using drugs even when that use puts them in danger?
Are physical or mental problems being caused or worsened by their drug use?
Have they increased the amount they are taking to get the desired effect?
Do they deal with any withdrawal symptoms which may make them want to take more of their drug of choice?

Answering yes to several or all of these questions may be an indicator that your family member has a drug problem and needs help.

Recommended Approaches

While each family situation is unique, there are some do’s and don’ts that apply to most circumstances. You do want to focus on building trust with the family member who’s dealing with drug abuse. You also want to be honest with them and encourage them to get help. You may also want to set firm boundaries about their drug-taking behavior (for example, establishing a rule that they may not use drugs in your home.) However, you do not want to threaten or criticize them. Also, you don’t want to expect any immediate changes in their behavior. When you approach your loved one about their drug use, they may not be willing to admit they have a problem. They may not want to change their behavior, or they may be embarrassed by it. It is also possible that they are abusing drugs to avoid dealing with another issue such as mental illness, stress, or trauma. Overcoming addiction is not a fast or easy process. Family members need to prepare themselves for that reality. In addition to helping to reestablish trust and communication with the family member, it is also important that you seek out support for yourself. Peer support groups like Al-Anon and Nar-Anon are helpful resources for family members of people in active addiction. If your family member is open to alternatives, you may want to contact a drug addiction treatment professional. They can help you better understand the different programs and treatments available for your loved one and can connect your family member to local resources. At Forward Recovery, we specialize in rehab for adults at all stages of life. We believe that with the right attitude and the right support, it is always possible to start a new chapter. Call us at (844) 387-6889 if you are seeking support in dealing with substance abuse for yourself or a loved one.

The post How to Approach a Family Member About Their Substance Use appeared first on Forward Recovery.

Managing Depression During Addiction Recovery

Lonnie — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 15:34:27 +0000

Depression is a mental disability that affects about 10% of Americans, according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It is common for people that struggle with depression to also have issues with addiction. After all, many people reach for drugs or alcohol to numb themselves to painful thoughts and experiences. Unfortunately, alcohol depresses the central nervous system, which can further trigger feelings of sadness or hopelessness. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has found that about 90% of Americans who commit suicide also struggled with depression, substance abuse, or both. The combination of depression and addiction is known as a dual diagnosis.

Integrated treatment

The combination of depression and addiction can present many challenges when it comes to treatment. Integrated treatment is the best option for managing both of these mental health issues. This type of plan will focus on five main goals:

Understanding how your depression interacts with your substance use
Learning that recovery is possible
Offering motivation to make life changes
Providing skills for handling negative thoughts without addictive substances
Helping to identify and change addictive behavior patterns

Therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, is often very beneficial for dealing with a dual diagnosis. In some cases, medication, such as antidepressants, can be part of an effective treatment program for managing depression while also dealing with addiction recovery.

No quick fix

Because of the complexity of a dual diagnosis, there is no “quick fix” treatment solution. It takes time for individuals in recovery to adequately learn the tools they need to handle both depression and addiction. Having support, encouragement, and motivation from family, friends, and treatment professionals can be an invaluable part of your recovery journey, giving you the strength to continue when challenges inevitably arise. Remember that neither depression or addiction are weaknesses. Both are mental health disorders that are caused by a complicated blend of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Spotting The Signs of Depression and Addiction

If you experience five or more of the following symptoms daily, you may have depression:

Feelings of hopelessness
Anxiety
Loss of appetite/weight loss
Increased appetite/weight gain
Sleeping too much or too little
Crying often or easily
Ache and pains
Loss of energy
Feelings of guilt
A sense of worthlessness
General irritability
Difficulty concentrating on daily tasks
A loss of interest in activities or hobbies
Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts

Addiction has four main warning signs:

Tolerance to the effects of a drug or alcohol that requires you to take larger and larger amounts to achieve the same effect.
Physical symptoms of withdrawal, like nausea, tremors, or cold sweats, if you reduce your intake.
Feelings of guilt or sadness after drinking or taking the drug.
Cravings or withdrawal symptoms that drive you to resume your addictive habits

If you are in the Los Angeles area and need help with depression and addiction, Forward Recovery can help. Owned and operated by local clinicians, our programs take a structured approach to treatment, providing integrated and trauma-informed therapy led by licensed mental health and substance abuse professionals. Contact us today at (844) 387-6889. We’re here, and we’re ready to talk to you.

The post Managing Depression During Addiction Recovery appeared first on Forward Recovery.

Emotions Surrounding COVID-19 Could Be Triggering to Recovering Addicts

Lonnie — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 16:40:07 +0000

VegasNews.com Article by Bethonie Butler, featuring Dr. Renee Solomon Forward Recovery doctor says staying connected critical during this time. The unfolding situation around the Covid-19 (coronavirus) pandemic is stressful for everyone but can be especially problematic for recovering addicts, according to Dr. Renee Solomon, co-owner Forward Recovery. “This is a time when people in recovery may want to use because things feel so hopeless, and they are dealing with fear around the unknown,” Solomon said. “This is a time when connection is needed, so it’s important that people in recovery stay connected.” Solomon recommends online meetings, increasing the frequency of calls to sponsors, and contacting friends and family for support. Skype is also a good way to stay connected. “If you can’t be in the same place with someone, you can watch a TV show at the same time and text during it or Skype and let it be a way of communicating,” she said. Now is the time to get creative about staying connected while self-isolating. “I know people doing book clubs on Zoom as a way to stay connected,” Solomon said. “We have to change how we think about socializing at the moment.” Other ways addicts can stay vigilant about recovery during this time is to focus on self-care by exercising, eating well and being mindful of others. “Distraction is also important,” Solomon said. “There are several mindless TV shows that help take our minds off COVID-19. I strongly discourage people from staring at the news for hours and hours and reading online stories about the virus because it just creates more panic.” ABOUT FORWARD RECOVERY Forward Recovery offers all levels of care for addiction treatment, including Detox, Residential, PHP, IOP, OP and Aftercare, specializing in rehabilitation services for adults of all ages. Along with co-ed residential facilities, there is also group therapy and gender-specific group therapy programs available. For more information, visit forwardrecovery.com or call (833) 508-2382

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