Understanding the Stages of Alcohol Withdrawal

What are the Stages of Alcohol Withdrawal

When it comes to grappling with alcohol addiction, understanding the stages of alcohol withdrawal is crucial. Withdrawal is a complex process that varies in intensity, and individuals may experience it differently based on factors such as the duration and intensity of alcohol consumption. 

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the three main stages of alcohol withdrawal: Mild, Moderate, and Severe.

Understanding the Complexity of Alcohol Addiction

Stages of Alcohol Withdrawal

Alcohol addiction is a nuanced and intricate challenge that affects individuals differently. A professional support system ensures a holistic understanding of the complexities involved. 

Unlike self-directed attempts at recovery, where the focus might be on symptomatic relief, professionals delve into the root causes, providing a more thorough and effective treatment plan.

Mild Withdrawal

Recognizing the Signs

In the initial stage of alcohol withdrawal, individuals typically encounter mild symptoms as their bodies start adjusting to the absence of alcohol. Mild withdrawal symptoms may include headaches, nausea, and irritability. These are the body’s early signals that it is transitioning from a state of dependence on alcohol to a state of sobriety.

Coping Strategies

It’s crucial to approach mild withdrawal with a proactive mindset. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as deep breathing exercises or light physical activity, can assist in alleviating these initial symptoms. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet also contribute to a smoother transition.

Moderate Withdrawal

Escalating Symptoms

As the withdrawal process progresses, individuals may enter the moderate withdrawal stage. During this phase, symptoms intensify, potentially involving more pronounced psychological and physical challenges. Moderate withdrawal symptoms may include heightened anxiety, increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure.

Seeking Professional Support

Given the escalating nature of moderate withdrawal, seeking professional assistance becomes imperative. Medical supervision and support from addiction specialists can provide a structured and safe environment for individuals navigating this challenging stage. Medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and ensure a more comfortable withdrawal experience.

Severe Withdrawal

A Critical Phase

Severe alcohol withdrawal, also known as delirium tremens (DT), represents the most critical stage. This phase is characterized by severe and potentially life-threatening symptoms, including hallucinations, seizures, and extreme confusion. It is crucial to recognize the severity of these symptoms and seek immediate medical attention.

Emergency Intervention

Severe withdrawal demands immediate medical intervention. 

Hospitalization is often necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual experiencing these intense symptoms. Medications such as benzodiazepines may be administered under close medical supervision to prevent seizures and manage the overall severity of the withdrawal process.

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Why Choose Professional Support for Alcohol Addiction?

Opting for professional assistance during alcohol withdrawal is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. Our team at All American Detox in California emphasizes the following reasons:

Medical Supervision: Ensuring Safety

Alcohol withdrawal can pose serious health risks, and having medical professionals oversee the process ensures immediate intervention in case of complications. Safety is our top priority.

Tailored Treatment Plans: Addressing Individual Needs

Each individual’s journey through withdrawal is unique. Our experts craft personalized treatment plans, considering each person’s specific challenges and needs.

Emotional Support: Nurturing Mental Well-Being

Withdrawal is not just a physical process; it profoundly affects mental well-being. Our team provides unwavering emotional support, understanding the importance of addressing physical and psychological aspects.

Access to Evidence-Based Therapies

Effective alcohol addiction treatment relies on evidence-based therapies that have demonstrated success in helping individuals overcome their struggles. 

Professional support grants access to various evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational enhancement therapy (MET), and contingency management. These proven methodologies significantly contribute to the success of the recovery journey.

Ongoing Counseling and Support

Recovery is not a one-time event but a continuous process that requires ongoing support. Professional assistance provides individuals with regular counseling sessions, support groups, and follow-up care, fostering a sustained commitment to sobriety. This ongoing support significantly reduces the risk of relapse and enhances the chances of long-term success.

Integration of Holistic Therapies

Beyond traditional therapeutic approaches, professional support often integrates holistic therapies that address the individual’s mind, body, and spirit. These may include yoga, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, and nutritional counseling. Incorporating holistic therapies enhances the individual’s overall well-being, promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Building a Supportive Network

Professional support extends beyond the individual, involving family members and loved ones in recovery. Building a supportive network is instrumental in creating a positive environment that reinforces the commitment to sobriety. Education, communication, and support network involvement contribute to a more robust and enduring recovery.

Confidentiality and Privacy

Acknowledging and seeking help for alcohol addiction can be a sensitive and private matter. Professional support provides a confidential and secure environment, allowing individuals to address their struggles without fear of judgment or social repercussions. This confidentiality encourages open communication and honesty, crucial elements in recovery.

Conclusion

Understanding the stages of alcohol withdrawal is paramount for anyone dealing with alcohol addiction or supporting a loved one through the recovery journey. 

By recognizing the importance of professional assistance, individuals embark on a transformative journey that addresses the immediate challenges of addiction and lays the foundation for a sustainable and fulfilling future.

From the mild discomfort of initial withdrawal to the potentially life-threatening nature of severe withdrawal, each stage requires a tailored approach and, in many cases, professional intervention.

All American Detox is not just a treatment center; it’s a partner in your journey toward a brighter, addiction-free future. Take the first step towards recovery – reach out to us today.

Understanding The Importance of Self Care in Addiction Recovery

Self Care Addiction Recovery

Addiction recovery is a complex and challenging journey that requires dedication, support, and a holistic approach. One vital aspect of this process is self-care. Self-care refers to the deliberate practice of nurturing and tending to one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It involves engaging in activities and adopting habits that promote self-nourishment, self-compassion, and personal growth.  

In the context of addiction recovery, self-care plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals as they rebuild their lives, heal from the effects of addiction, and establish a solid foundation for lasting recovery. By prioritizing self-care, individuals can enhance their overall well-being, reduce the risk of relapse, and foster a healthier and more fulfilling life.  

This article delves into the importance of self-care in addiction recovery and highlights the various ways in which self-care can positively impact individuals’ recovery journeys. 

What is Self-care in Addiction Recovery? 

The term “self-care” is used to describe the activities and routines that people in addiction recovery do on purpose to tend to their own mental, emotional, and physical well-being while they are working on beating their addiction.  

It entails forming habits and behaviors that are beneficial to one’s health as a whole and support the process of recovery over the long term. Self-care is an essential component of addiction recovery because it enables individuals to keep their lives in balance, lower their levels of stress, and lay a solid groundwork for long-term sobriety. 

Importance of Self-Care in Addiction Recovery: 

Self-care plays a crucial role in addiction recovery. It involves taking deliberate actions to maintain and improve one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By prioritizing self-care, individuals in recovery can strengthen their resilience, reduce the risk of relapse, and enhance their overall quality of life.  

Here are some key reasons why self-care is important in addiction recovery: 

  1. Physical well-being:

    Addiction can take a toll on the body, leading to various health issues. Engaging in self-care activities like exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep helps restore physical health. Regular physical activity can improve mood, reduce stress, and boost self-esteem, promoting a healthier lifestyle. 

  2. Emotional well-being:

    Recovery involves addressing underlying emotional issues that may have contributed to addiction. Self-care activities such as therapy, support groups, mindfulness, and meditation can help individuals process emotions, reduce anxiety and depression, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. It allows them to build emotional resilience and manage triggers effectively. 

  3. Stress reduction:

    Stress is a common trigger for relapse. Engaging in self-care practices that alleviate stress, such as relaxation techniques, hobbies, or spending time in nature, can enhance emotional well-being and provide healthier ways to manage stress. By prioritizing stress reduction, individuals can avoid turning to substances as a coping mechanism. 

  4. Self-awareness and self-compassion:

    Self-care encourages individuals to develop a deeper understanding of their needs, limitations, and boundaries. By practicing self-compassion, individuals can let go of self-blame, shame, and guilt associated with addiction. It promotes a positive self-image, and self-acceptance, and fosters a kinder relationship with oneself. 

  5. Improved relationships:

    Addiction often strains relationships with loved ones. By focusing on self-care, individuals in recovery can rebuild trust, establish healthier boundaries, and cultivate meaningful connections. They can also develop effective communication skills and learn how to prioritize their well-being while maintaining healthy relationships. 

  6. Prevention of relapse:

    Self-care is a vital component in preventing relapse. By engaging in activities that promote overall well-being, individuals create a stronger foundation for recovery. A healthy lifestyle, positive coping strategies, and effective stress management can help individuals navigate challenging situations without resorting to substances. 

  7. Increased self-esteem and confidence:

    Addiction can erode self-esteem and self-confidence. Engaging in self-care activities that promote personal growth, learning new skills, and achieving personal goals can rebuild self-esteem and foster a sense of accomplishment. This enhanced self-worth can serve as a protective factor against relapse. 

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What are some steps on Self-care in Addiction recovery? 

Here are some examples of self-care practices that can be beneficial in addiction recovery: 

  1. Engaging in regular exercise:

    Physical activity not only promotes physical health but also improves mood, reduces stress, and helps manage cravings. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy, whether it’s going for a walk, practicing yoga, running, or participating in a sport. 

  2. Practicing mindfulness or meditation:

    Mindfulness and meditation techniques can help calm the mind, increase self-awareness, and manage cravings or triggers. Consider incorporating mindfulness exercises or guided meditation into your daily routine. 

  3. Prioritizing healthy sleep habits:

    Getting sufficient and quality sleep is vital for overall well-being and recovery. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a soothing bedtime routine, and ensure your sleeping environment is conducive to restful sleep. 

  4. Nurturing your hobbies and interests:

    Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, painting, cooking, gardening, or any other hobby you enjoy. These activities provide a sense of fulfillment, distract from cravings, and promote a positive mindset. 

  5. Connecting with supportive individuals:

    Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, or a recovery community. Attend support group meetings, and therapy sessions, or engage in sober social activities where you can connect with individuals who understand your journey. 

  6. Taking breaks and practicing relaxation:

    Set aside time for relaxation and self-care. This can involve taking breaks throughout the day, practicing deep breathing exercises, enjoying a warm bath, getting a massage, or engaging in other relaxation techniques that promote stress reduction and rejuvenation. 

  7. Setting and achieving personal goals:

    Establish realistic goals for yourself and work towards them. These goals can be related to various aspects of your life, such as career, education, hobbies, or personal growth. Celebrating achievements along the way boosts self-esteem and motivates recovery. 

  8. Establishing a healthy routine:

    Create a structured daily routine that includes self-care activities, regular meals, exercise, work or study time, and relaxation. Having a routine provides stability, reduces uncertainty, and promotes a sense of control over your life. 

  9. Seeking professional help when needed:

    Recognize that seeking professional help is an important form of self-care. If you are struggling with addiction or facing challenges in recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to an addiction treatment center, therapist, or medical professional who can provide guidance and support. 

Conclusion: 

Self-care in addiction recovery is a crucial component of maintaining well-being and supporting long-term sobriety. It involves intentional actions and practices that nurture physical, emotional, and mental health. By prioritizing self-care, individuals in recovery can develop healthy habits, reduce stress, and build a solid foundation for a fulfilling life free from addiction. 

In addition to recovery, self-care encompasses various aspects. Physical self-care involves taking care of the body through exercise, nutritious eating, and adequate sleep. Emotional self-care focuses on nurturing emotions, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support through therapy or counseling. Mental self-care involves engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, promoting mental clarity and positive thinking. 

Ultimately, self-care in addiction recovery is a personalized journey. It requires individuals to explore and discover what practices work best for them. By prioritizing self-care, individuals in recovery can cultivate resilience, maintain balance, and create a solid foundation for a fulfilling and sustainable life in sobriety. 

FAQs on Self-care in Addiction Recovery: 

Q1: Can self-care replace professional treatment in addiction recovery?  

A: No, self-care should not replace professional treatment in addiction recovery. Self-care practices complement and enhance the effectiveness of professional treatment, therapy, and support systems. It is important to seek professional help, such as addiction counselors or therapists, to address the underlying causes of addiction and develop a comprehensive recovery plan. 

Q2: How do I incorporate self-care into my daily routine?  

A: Incorporating self-care into your daily routine requires intention and consistency. Start by identifying self-care activities that resonate with you and are feasible to incorporate into your schedule. Set aside dedicated time each day or week for self-care practices. Prioritize self-care as a non-negotiable part of your routine and make adjustments as needed to ensure it remains a consistent part of your life. 

Q3: What if I feel guilty or selfish for prioritizing self-care?  

A: It is common to experience feelings of guilt or selfishness when prioritizing self-care, especially if you are used to putting others’ needs before your own. However, it’s important to recognize that self-care is necessary for your well-being and recovery.  

Taking care of yourself allows you to show up fully for others and be a positive influence in their lives. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it is an essential part of maintaining your health and being able to support others effectively. 

Difference Between Parenting and Mental Health Problems

Difference Between Parenting and Mental Health Problems - All American Detox

Parenting does not come with a rulebook that guides you to raise perfectly self-sufficient and mentally stable children. It is a trial and error process that plays the biggest role in your child’s life. Most of our parents did not grow up discussing mental health as a normal conversation. Mental health concerns and resources are far more accessible and normalized now than they ever have been. But what is the difference between parenting and mental health problems? Are parents to blame if their child develops severe anxiety or depression? How can you prevent this from happening?

Here we will cover:

  • What happens if parents have poor mental health
  • Parents mental health support
  • How children can be affected
  • Practical ways to help

What Happens if Parents Have Poor Mental Health?

Parents or primary caregivers are likely the people most involved in a child’s life. This means if a parent has poor mental health, their child will absolutely be affected in some way or another.

Poor mental health could mean:

  • Low self-esteem
  • Lack of motivation
  • Feeling sad or down
  • Excessive fear or worry
  • Excessive sleeping or insomnia
  • Social isolation
  • An inability to connect to others or the world we live in

Poor mental health can lead to severe anxiety, depression, untreated PTSD, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It can also lead to excessive alcohol or drug use. When parents have not been taught helping ways to cope with the stress and overwhelm life and parenthood brings, it can quickly turn into self-soothing through drugs or alcohol. This is problematic for nearly everyone involved in that person’s life, but especially their children.

As a parent, it is our main priority to ensure our children have their basic needs met. Are they fed, clean, hydrated, and supervised? But it is also our responsibility to make sure they feel loved, valued, adored, cared for, and important. So many of us grew up in emotional distant or physically distraught household environments. This can leave a child with years of emotional damage and greatly affect the way they show up in the world.

It was estimated that 10% of children ages 5-16 have a clinically diagnosed mental health problem and about 20% of adolescents may experience a mental health problem within any given year. But if parents work on healing themselves, and discussing mental health with their children, they can learn to support themselves in a healthy and fulfilling way to then teach this to their children.

Parent’s Mental Health Support

Seeking mental health support does not always come before the children and is an ongoing, never ending process. Therapy can be a helpful way to unload any personal baggage you may be carrying around. There are many different types of therapeutic modalities that can help you navigate and manage any sort of mental health problem.

Parents are often viewed as people who “have it all together.” Children look up to you, other parents may look up to you, and there is a lot of pressure to maintain that image. But parents need mental health support too. There are also tons of parenting support groups that may be able to connect you with other parents dealing with similar issues. The biggest thing to remember, is that while the healing work may be helping you better understand yourself, it is also helping the way you connect and show up for you child.

How Children can be Affected: Practical Ways to Help

When a parent or both parents are struggling with poor mental health, this becomes a risk factor for maltreatment. Parents who struggle with low self-esteem, lack of motivation, poor impulse control, antisocial behavior, high anxiety, or depression compromise their ability to properly care for their child. Children may be abused or neglected due to their parent or caregiver having untreated mental health issues. They may grow up with a lack of self-worth, trauma, feelings of being invisible or not important, or develop their own negative self-soothing practices such as substance abuse or self-harm.

If you are a parent dealing with mental health struggles, you are not alone. Parenting is one of the toughest roles you can take and while it may bring loads of joy and happiness, it can also bring up hardships and struggles. The good news is, there are practical ways to help yourself and your relationship with your child.

The most practical step you can take, is finding a local therapist that can help you understand and manage the symptoms of your mental health issues. There are plenty of therapist that accept insurances or offer a sliding scale-fee. There are also several online therapy services offered at a low cost. Therapy can be an intimidating and daunting experience, but it is available to help you let go of what has been holding you back and find self-soothing techniques to alleviate some of the discomfort caused by your poor mental health.

Other practical ways to help include:

  • Exercise
  • Mindfulness practices such as meditation or journaling
  • Reading self-help books, specifically focused on the mental health issue you may be experiencing
  • Breathwork exercises to help calm your nervous system
  • Spending time with others
  • Talking to a trusted friend about your struggles

Get Help

A child’s mental health is supported by their parents. Children learn from the environment they are living in. They can feel the energy within the room even before they are capable of expressing their thoughts or feelings. This is why it is so important for a parent to get help if they are struggling with poor mental health.

If you, or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance abuse, All American Detox Center is here for you. All American Detox Center provides clinical support to those who may be battling with an addiction. Please call (844) 570-1301 today to get the help you need and deserve.

Also Read: How to deal with depression and anxiety

Treatment Options for Drug & Alcohol Abuse at All American Detox

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Are you finally ready to quit drugs and alcohol once and for all? All American Detox is a drug and alcohol treatment and rehab center in Los Angeles California. Our detox and residential inpatient programs can help you overcome substance abuse in comfort and with confidence. For more information, call us today at (844) 570-1301.

Citations

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “Warning Signs and Symptoms.”

https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Warning-Signs-and-Symptoms.

Mental Health Foundation. “Children and Young People Statistics.”

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/children-young-people-

statistics

Child Welfare Information Gateway. “Mental Health of Parents and Caregivers.”

https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/can/factors/parentcaregiver/mentalhealth/#:~:text=A

%20parent%27s%20or%20caregiver%27s%20mental,these%20factors%20can%20comp

romise%20parenting.

BC Mental Health and Substance Use Services. “10 Tips to Booth Your Mental Health.”

http://www.bcmhsus.ca/about/news-stories/stories/10-tips-to-boost-your-mental-health Retreived October 4, 2018.

10 Damaging Effects That Children of Alcoholics May Endure

10 Damaging Effects That Children of Alcoholics May Endure

The impacts of addiction on children are complex and far reaching. During this crucial age, children need to feel safe and secure–they also require love, understanding and guidance. And because children are still developing, they also must rely on their guardians for material needs like food, water and shelter.

Creating such an environment fosters growth and empowers children preparing them for life’s challenges. A parent who grappling with alcoholism, on the other hand may be neglectful, abusive or dangerous.

Alcoholism is also a progressive disease that gets worse over time, and even if things are okay for now there is no such thing as a functional alcoholic.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction it is important to consider the impact that drinking could be having on your kids. While alcohol addiction can be a hard habit to kick, getting treatment as early as possible is the best way to minimize harm for the whole family

Read on to learn the 10 potential consequences children can face as a result of parental alcoholism.

Developmentally – In the Womb

Alcoholism can impact a child before they are even born, in utero. Alcohol enters the bloodstream, easily passing to the uterus where it is absorbed more slowly. In its vulnerable state, a fetus can endure permanent developmental changes to the body and brain.

Also Read: How to deal with depression and anxiety

1. Physical Development

  • Facial deformities such as cleft lip or palate: a gap (or gaps) that form on the upper lip or roof of the mouth.1
  • Premature birth and low birthweight
  • Hearing and vision loss
  • Small head size
  • Stunted height

2. Stunted Brain Development

The scanned brains of children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) reveal smaller brains as well as malformation in several areas of the brain. Other research found that prenatal poor communication between several parts of the brain.2 Together, the developmental issues associated with prenatal alcohol results in cognitive issues that can persist into adulthood.

3. Problems With Learning and Attention3

  • Memory problems
  • Issues with motor control and coordination
  • Speech impediments and problems with language development
  • Trouble paying attention
  • Poor critical thinking skills

4. Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)

Drugs including alcohol, opioids, amphetamine, cocaine and can lead to what is called neonatal abstinence syndrome or NAS: a condition where a baby is born dependent to the drug that the mother was taking.4

NAS can cause a variety of withdrawal symptoms many of which may complicate the pregnancy putting the baby’s health and life at risk.

Disruption of Childhood Development

5. Neglect

In cases where child maltreatment has occurred, 40% involve alcohol and drug use. This amounts to around 480,000 kids annually.5

Child neglect is the failure of a parent or guardian to secure a child’s fundamental needs including:

  • Physical Neglect: This includes securing material needs like clothing, food, shelter, or keeping them safe from harm.6
  • Educational Neglect: Not enrolling their children in school or pulling them out too often are examples of emotional neglect.6
  • Emotional Neglect: Ignoring, humiliating, or berating, intimidating the child or separating them from others.6
  • Medical neglect: Not providing proper medical care for a child or refusing recommended and necessary care from a doctor.6

6. Physical Abuse 

Psychical child abuse is the second most reported form of child abuse next to neglect; it includes any physical injury intended to cause harm.

Common forms of child abuse include:

  • Hitting or beating (either with bare hands, or an object like a belt or a stick)
  • Using objects like a stove or a lighter to burn the skin
  • Kicking
  • Suffocation by strangulation of holding a child underwater (even temporarily)
  • Restraining using rope or tape.7

Alcoholism is believed to contribute to child abuse for several reasons:

  • Heavily alcohol use can impair areas of the brain responsible for self-control, giving rise to violent behavior against children.8
  • Heavy alcohol abuse causes the abuser to miss social cues and mistakenly assume that family members are treating them with hostility or disrespect; it may also cause them to misjudge the severity of their actions.9
  • Child abusers who are alcoholics are more likely to perpetrate violence if they can place the blame on alcohol instead of holding themselves accountable.9

7. Sexual Abuse

Among both boys and girls, alcohol was found to be a risk factor in child sexual abuse or CSA; it was also found to be more common in families where alcoholism is or had been present.9 For women, alcoholism is also a risk factor for developing alcohol and substance abuse problems later in life.10

8. Emotional Abuse

In many cases, the impact of emotional or verbal abuse are just as damaging as physical abuse. And like physical abuse can be exacerbated by alcohol misuse. Situations involving emotional abuse may include:

  • Verbal bullying
  • Yelling or screaming
  • Putting down for the child making mistakes
  • Isolating the child from friends or family
  • Ignoring or refusing to speak to the child
  • Gaslighting ­– invalidating an individual’s perception of reality; especially when it means denying the existence of physical or emotional abuse.

Alcoholism and child abuse can also occur in the other direction. In other words, children experiencing emotional and physical abuse are at risk of developing alcohol or substance abuse problems as adults.

9. Trauma and PTSD

The exposure of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse at the hands of a guardian or another adult are traumatic experiences. Trauma is also associated with the development of other mental illnesses like anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, Borderline Personality disorder and substance abuse disorder.12

10. Substance Misuse and Addiction

Trauma leaves lasting scars which if left unaddressed can follow a child into adolescence and adulthood. Without the skills to cope, it is likely that they will develop other methods, one of which is self-medicating using alcohol or other drugs.

Having substance abuse issues is also more common amongst those with at least one other mental illness; over 18% of those who struggle with mental illness also have a substance use disorder.13 Having a co-occurring disorder can also complicate the recovery process often requiring more intensive and engaging forms of substance abuse treatment.

Brief about Post-child abuse14

  • 14% of children (1 in 7) experience neglect or abuse every year in the US.
  • 33% of children (1 in 3) who enter the foster care do so as a result of parental drug and alcohol abuse.
  • Child abuse is often thought of as just being intentional physical and emotional harm such as striking or bullying but it also includes neglect. Parents who fail to provide necessities like food, water, shelter, education, or medical care are also committing child abuse.
  • Child abuse is traumatic; children who experience it may develop feelings of guilt or shame, reoccurring memories and maladaptive thinking. Without proper mental health services, they can go on to develop mental illnesses including substance abuse.

Treatment Options for Drug & Alcohol Abuse at All American Detox

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Are you finally ready to quit drugs and alcohol once and for all? All American Detox is a drug and alcohol treatment and rehab center in Los Angeles California. Our detox and residential inpatient programs can help you overcome substance abuse in comfort and with confidence. For more information, call us today at (844) 570-1301.

Citations

NHS. (n.d.). Overview -Cleft lip and palate. NHS choices. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cleft-lip-and-palate/

Gadye, L. (n.d.). What is fetal alcohol syndrome, and how does it affect the brain? BrainFacts.org. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.brainfacts.org/diseases-and-disorders/childhood-disorders/2018/what-is-fetal-alcohol-syndrome,-and-how-does-it-affect-the-brain-082318

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, December 14). Alcohol use during pregnancy. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/alcohol-use.html

Default – Stanford Medicine Children’s health. Stanford Medicine Children’s Health – Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford. (n.d.). Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=neonatal-abstinence-syndrome-90-P02387

The relationship between parental alcohol and other drug problems and … (n.d.). Retrieved October 5, 2022, from http://preventchildabuse.org/images/docs/therelationshipbetweenparentalalcoholandotherdrugproblemsandchildmaltreatment.pdf

Neglect. NSPCC. (n.d.). Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-is-child-abuse/types-of-abuse/neglect/

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Child physical abuse: Medlineplus medical encyclopedia. MedlinePlus. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001552.htm

Gouvernement du Canada. (2012, July 26). WHO Facts on Alcohol and Violence: Child maltreatment and alcohol. Canada.ca. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/stop-family-violence/prevention-resource-centre/children/who-facts-on-alcohol-violence-child-maltreatment-alcohol.html

Widom, C. S., & Hiller-Sturmhöfel, S. (n.d.). Alcohol abuse as a risk factor for and consequence of child abuse. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh25-1/52-57.htm

Martie L. Skinner, Allison N. Kristman-Valente, Todd I. Herrenkohl, Adult Binge Drinking: Childhood Sexual Abuse, Gender and the Role of Adolescent Alcohol-Related Experiences, Alcohol and Alcoholism, Volume 51, Issue 2, 1 March 2016, Pages 136–141, https://doi.org/10.1093/alcalc/agv093

Trauma. Mental Health Foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/trauma#:~:text=Trauma%20can%20make%20you%20more,difficulties%20in%20your%20daily%20life.

Russ, S. (2020, April 29). One in three children entered foster care in 2017 because of parental drug abuse. Child Trends. Retrieved October 4, 2022, from https://www.childtrends.org/blog/one-in-three-children-entered-foster-care-in-fy-2017-because-of-parental-drug-abuse

Benefits Of Detoxification

Benefits Of Detoxification - All American Detox

Introduction

You hear a lot about detoxification in the media these days. These detoxes usually involve trendy diets with weird names, fasts and supplements, with questionable efficacy.

Dietary fads and new age medicine, claim to have the magic bullet that will revitalize and cleanse the body, but when it comes to substance abuse, people need answers that they know will work. Sometimes their very lives depend on it.

If you like many others are wondering what the difference between full body detoxification and clinical detox, along with what role they play in the recovery process, read on to learn more.

Benefits Of Cleansing or Full Body Detox

In the mainstream sense of the term, full body detoxes are diets that purportedly remove toxins from the body that build up for a variety of reasons. What providers of these full body detox products usually fail to mention, is that the body naturally cleanses itself and can do so quite effectively when it is healthy.

The problem for many chronic long term drug users, is that overtime extensive substance abuse puts the body in a state of poor health and rewires the brain, making it dependent on those substances to function normally. This can have a variety of negative short and long-term effects such as:1

  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty sleeping or achieving sustained sleep
  • Changes is blood pressure and heart rate
  • Mouth sores and dental problems
  • Depression, anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, and mood swings
  • Poor hygiene
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Cognitive disfunction (motor control problems, slowed reaction time, difficulty concentrating and memory problems)
  • Stomach ulcers and other gastro-intestinal problems
  • Diseases from sharing needles or other equipment
  • Heart disease
  • Liver, kidney and lung problems

So, for those looking at quitting drugs and alcohol for the sake of their overall well-being, what is the way forward?

Also Read: How to deal with depression and anxiety

Talk To Your Doctor

Don’t do anything rash, schedule an appointment with your doctor. A medical evaluation and a few tests can point out issues that you may have developed while you have been using drugs and whether medical detox is right for you.

You can also reach out to a trusted detoxification center, schedule an evaluation and get help.

Get Off Drugs and Alcohol

Once you have determined the “how”, the next step is putting that plan into action. Recovery cannot begin if you continue to use, and your health will not improve either.

The most important part of the detox process is allowing the body to cleanse itself without any unnecessary aggravation.

Healthy Diet and Exercise

During periods of substance abuse, proper diet and exercise are often critically overlooked. In one review that looked at the past data of drug user’s dietary habits, it was found that high intake of sugars; low consumption of fruits and vegetables; low essential vitamins (A, D, C, and E); low protein levels; low total cholesterol and overall malnutrition were prevalent.2

Proper nutrition and exercise are key to addiction and substance abuse recovery, also making detox safer and prevent further damage.

Warnings

People beginning the journey of recovery experience multiple hurdles before they can move on to the next phase of treatment. The first of which, is deciding what kind of detox treatment program is right for them.

For those that may be trying to get sober for the time, people tend to have an idealistic vision of detoxing at home and seek to remain in their comfort zone, go at their own pace, saving money. On the other hand, home detoxes are highly ineffective and the risks are considerable.

Commonly abused drugs like alcohol and opioids come with a high risk of dependency; stopping their use “cold turkey “can be physically stressful on the body–sometimes severely so.

These symptoms can emerge seemingly without warning. When these flare ups occur, a medical intervention may be necessary. Seeing the signs without medical training, however, can be tough and failing to intervene could result in permeant damage or even death.

Clinical Detoxification and Benefits

Treatment Planning

Before care can begin, all incoming patients undergo an examination to determine what their needs in detox will be. To do this, detox centers do health screenings and interview you about your history with drugs and alcohol before devising a treatment plan.3

Relapse Prevention

The secure and supervised environment of a detoxification center effectively works to prevent relapse from occurring, allowing clients to focus on getting well.

Medical Care

Non-stop medical supervision not only ensures sobriety during detox, but also allows doctors and treatment staff to monitor patient condition. With their expertise, any health complications that occur can be dealt with before they become an issue.

Medication Assisted Detox (MATS)

Those undergoing detoxification for alcohol and opioid abuse can often benefit from medically assisted detox programs.

Drugs like methadone and buprenorphine, for example, that have shown to be safer for tapering than the drugs they replace.4

For those in alcohol detox, their program might prescribe a benzodiazepine like Diazepam or an anti-convulsant to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and prevent seizures from occurring.4

In other cases, patients may be given essential vitamins to supplement deficiencies and promote immune system health such as folic acid, b-vitamins, potassium, electrolytes and others.5 

Stabilization and Aftercare Planning

The primary goal of a drug detoxification program is stabilization. For most people going through drug and alcohol withdrawals, this occurs somewhere between 3-7 days.

Once a person’s symptoms are manageable, the conversation becomes what happens next. Aftercare assistance is a service provided that connects clients with inpatient drug rehab programs for the next stage of recovery.

Get Help at All American Detox Center

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Are you or a loved one struggle with substance abuse? At All American Detox Center, we understand the difficulties involved early recovery we and are here to help. To learn more about our accredited detox and rehabilitation programs, call us at (844) 570 -1301.

Conclusion

Many of the objectives of full body detox and clinical drug detox are the same. Both promote healthy diet, nutritional balance and emphasize the need to help the body as it cleanses itself from toxins. Despite this, detox diets and fasts should only be done when approved by a licensed physician.

For long-time users of drugs and alcohol, however medical detox programs are a critical juncture of early recovery whose goals range from cleansing the body of harmful substances to helping their clients taper off the drugs and alcohol with the use of medications.

Whatever method is chosen, the primary mission of a clinical detox program is to get you on the path to lifelong sobriety in a safe and effective manner.

Citations

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2017, October 26). Drug addiction (substance use disorder). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved August 18, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112

Mahboub, N., Rizk, R., Karavetian, M., & de Vries, N. (2021). Nutritional status and eating habits of people who use drugs and/or are undergoing treatment for recovery: a narrative review. Nutrition reviews, 79(6), 627–635. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuaa095

Moore, W. (n.d.). Alcohol Detox and rehab programs: What to expect and how to choose. WebMD. Retrieved August 18, 2022, from https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/alcohol-detox-programs#2

Diaper, A. M., Law, F. D., & Melichar, J. K. (2014). Pharmacological strategies for detoxification. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 77(2), 302–314. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcp.12245

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Substance use recovery and Diet: Medlineplus medical encyclopedia. MedlinePlus. Retrieved August 18, 2022, from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002149.htm

12 Ways To Relax Without Alcohol

12 Ways To Relax That Don’t Involve Alcohol

Alcohol usage is quite common these days and even more so in teenagers than it is in adults. While social drinking in adults is fine, it’s bad when things get a bit extreme, like drinking in order to keep stress and to relax. That’s bad. Alcohol is not the way to relax, it will only make things worse.

In fact, according to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, alcohol misuse is involved in 50% of deaths (accidents, homicides, and suicides) and even more so in the 15-24 age group. As much 1/3rd of the patients in a drug rehab center are those who enrolled in alcohol addiction treatment programs. If your wish is to relax and keep stress away, then there are other ways of doing it. With that said, here are the 12 ways to relax without drinking alcohol.

12 Ways To Relax That Don’t Involve Alcohol

ways to relax without alcohol

1. Change The Way You Prep Meal

Prepping your own meal is not a chore but a necessity. So, mix it up, change your diet and make new foods every day. It will improve your culinary skills and give your a certain sense of satisfaction and calmness.

2. Go The Green Way

Green tea is a great alternative drink that you have to relax. Its active ingredient, L-theanine, has a sort of similar effect on your brain as that of alcohol. It will reduce stress and anxiety while promoting good health

3. Laughter and Joy

Laughter is the best medicine, or so they say. But it doesn’t have to be medicine, it can rather be your new meditation. Watch some comedy movies or TV or just a trip to a stand-up comedy club.

4. Find Your Calm

Finding your calm is something only you can achieve. For some, it’s meditation, for others, it’s sports or binge-watching. You will have to find what’s yours.

5. Go Solo

People tend to think going out by yourself is weird and boring but there’s a certain zen to it that you can’t get with someone else. Go for a solo movie trip, a bike ride, or an art exhibition.

6. Remix Your Schedule

We get it, no one likes to change their schedule. Your daily schedule is how you get things done every day, and maybe that’s the issue. You’ve been doing the same things for so long that it has become boring.

7. Try Writing

One question that people always have is, “What should I write about?” You don’t need to write about something specific. It can be anything. For starters, try writing everything you do on a daily basis and make it a habit.

8. Household Chores Can Be Fun

Doing chores can be quite boring but thinking about it this way. There’s an endless force against you trying to ruin everything you own and it’s your job to fight back against it to save your world. That endless force against you is dirt and dust, and doing your chores is you fighting against it. 

9. Nothing Good Happens After Midnight

If peace and calm are what you desire, forget everything, go to bed early, fall asleep and wake up early in the morning. When you finally wake up, what you get is fresh and a beautiful morning waiting to be rediscovered.

10. Get a Plant

Caring your something other than yourself can be very therapeutic and heartwarming. So, get a plant, water it, and care for it. It’s low maintenance, doesn’t scream at you and all it ever asks for is sunlight and water.

11. Practise Yoga/Excercise

Exercising is really good. It benefits your entire health. It’s also an excellent stress-reduction technique. Yoga is one form of exercise that might assist you in relaxing. Many individuals believe that yoga is even more helpful than other types of exercise. This is due to the practice’s combination of physical movement, deep breathing, and awareness.

12. Indulge in Self Care

Self-care is a broad phrase that encompasses a wide range of activities. It generally refers to actions you take to help yourself feel better and enhance your health.

What To Do if You Are Addicted to Alcohol?

If you think you are addicted to alcohol, then you probably are. In this case, you cannot help yourself and the only way to get rid of your addiction is to ask for help and get into alcohol detox programs at reputed alcohol rehab centers such as All American Detox Center, which comes highly recommended. They help a patient deal with the root cause of addiction and help them deal with all of their alcohol addiction symptoms including alcohol withdrawal.

 

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Detoxification: The Benefits And Why It’s So Important

What is Detoxification and it's importance - All American

You must know this, if you aim for recovery and sobriety from any form of addiction, the first step is detoxification. It involves the flushing out of drugs or alcohol from the physical body before moving towards counseling sessions, relapse prevention courses, continued education, and other social activities. Detoxification is a hard nut to crack! During detox, the individual is invariably trying to survive without drugs/alcohol. Also, this process demands physical and psychological pain endurance caused due to withdrawal. Let’s understand the importance of drug detoxification.

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Did you know about detoxification?

Who needs detox? What are the drug detox process and its side effects? Detox is most effective for individuals with addictions to heroin, alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines.

The withdrawal symptoms for detox include:

  • crippling anxiety

  • cold sweats

  • intense drug cravings

  • crawling skin

  • nausea

  • muscle spasms

  • goosebumps

  • vomiting

  • irrational thoughts

Planning on Detox in California? Can we look into the types of detox you could choose from?

You have three options for drug or alcohol detox:

  • Cold-turkey detox

  • Medically-supervised inpatient detox

  • Medically-supervised outpatient detox

Wanna know more about these detoxes? Here you go…

In a cold-turkey detox, the addicts typically attempt to detox at home independently without either proper medication or supervision from skilled medical professionals at the Alcohol detox center.

In a medically supervised inpatient detox, the addicts undergo detoxification by living in a staffed residential facility. Also known as residential treatment, in this medical intervention, you sleep, eat, and live on the residential campus even as you undergo detoxification and other interventions such as counseling sessions, and relapse prevention courses. Some good drug detox centers/alcohol detox centers offer highly customized, comprehensive, and holistic medical interventions for detoxification which include vitamin and supplement intake, drug therapy, and 24/7 supervision.

In a medically supervised outpatient detox, the addicts undergo detoxification and other medical interventions through customized and timely medical supervision of the skilled personnel at the drug detox center California. However, you don’t live on the campus. Instead, you are free to return to work or home upon completion of the treatment session.

Detoxification from drugs or alcohol comes with mild to acute mental and physical stressors. Hence, chances of quitting or relapse are higher with cold-turkey detox. We strongly advise you to undertake the detox under skilled medical assistance to ensure higher success rates. Especially for benzos detox prescription-pill detox or benzodiazepines detox, the chances of grand-mal seizure along with other fatal symptoms are higher when conducted without medical supervision. So pick up your phone and search for an Alcohol detox center near me and you will find plenty of options to choose from.

Detoxification - benefits and why its so important

Importance of Drug Detoxification:

Detox and Live Sober

You will agree that detox is not a cakewalk! Of course, detoxing puts you at the end of your comfort zone. You will crave more alcohol/drugs. You may want to give up. You may have muscle spasms and much more! But when you detox under medical supervision (inpatient/outpatient), even in your weakest moment, you have support from the medical staff that will boost your morale to recovery. Imagine living a life of long-term sobriety. Sober living is a happier living because you are no more craving for drugs/alcohol- you need not be stressed about an anxiety attack or muscle spasm! Detox is the first step to sobriety

Detox and Gain a Healthy Body

Trying to detox? The withdrawal symptoms and the desire to quit are given! But, hey, it is temporary! Detoxing will flush out all dangerous substances from your body. What you will be left with is a healthy body. Who better than a detox center to guide you in this process of transforming your body?

Detox and Boost Your Energy

Being under the influence of a drug/alcohol will surely give you an instant spike in energy and a pleasurable kick. This is so true about stimulants such as cocaine, crack, or amphetamines. But this energy is temporary and extremely dependent. The inability to get these drugs can make you go crazy, anxious, depressed, and whatnot! Instead, a medically supervised successful detox can help you stay energetic, independent, active, and cheerful through each day without depending on drugs or alcohol.

Detox and Boost Your Immune System

Being under the influence of drugs/alcohol can make you weak emotionally as well as physically. Detoxing via medical supervision is the first step to recovery from addiction. When the body has successfully cleansed the toxic addictive substances from the system, the immune system starts getting stronger by the day. Control over impulses and emotions also leads to better health of the immune system.

Detox and Have Healthy Relationships

Addiction can hamper you not just emotionally and physically, it can take a toll on your social life too. A known fact, addicts generally have strained relationships with their family, friends, and co-workers too. But, detoxing and sober living ensures a healthy social life. Sober living gradually prepares you for independent living, healthy relationships with family and friends, better work-life, and larger accountability for your own actions. Just imagine, detoxing can help you start afresh with your everyday activities such as participating in household chores, housekeeping, and socializing with friends and family!

Sign up for an alcohol/drug addiction detox program:

Detox is not a cakewalk! Detox is not impossible! Choose the right companion to help you detox. Choose All American Detox. You can reach out to us by clicking on this number +1-844-570-1301.

For Dual Diagnosis substance abuse and mental health see the Dual diagnosis treatment program: What you need to know.