What is the Impact of Drugs on Our Brain and Body?

If you feel like you are walking around in circles and trying to find your way out of a labyrinth of troubles, and that substance abuse will offer you a quick-fix solution, think again. You may be facing a plethora of personal and/or professional issues, and the urge to “feel good” or “stop feeling like a misfit or unwanted’ or succumbing to plain curiosity may trigger the need to just “give it a try.” But the impact of substance abuse on your brain, body, and, most importantly, your life, will throw you into an abyss where getting your life back on track will be a Herculean task. Read on to learn more about the devastating impact of drugs and the many options to help overcome drug addiction.

Understanding the Intricacies of Drug Addiction

You may have heard of or read about people being addicted to drugs or being tagged as drug addicts, but what makes someone addicted to drugs? When you just can’t stay away from drugs and your urge gets the better of you despite knowing that it causes harm, you may already be on the dangerous path to full-blown drug addiction. If prescription medicines or illegal drugs start to take center stage in your life – even taking precedence over food and sleep – and control every moment of your life, cut you off from family and friends, and even lead you to steal, lie and hurt people who matter to you, it may be time to seek intervention.

Drug addiction is akin to a chronic ailment, and you can experience a “trigger” at any time. Triggers can arise from troubles at home, hanging out with people who use drugs, mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety, difficulty in making new friends or adjusting to a new environment, visiting a particular place or meeting a person, seeing a picture or thing, getting a whiff of a familiar smell, or even a feeling or memory associated with certain events.

Your Body — Different Drugs, Different Effects

Drugs can have psychological as well as physical long- and short-term effects on your brain and body. It doesn’t take long for a “casual user” to become completely addicted to drugs. The effects of a particular drug and the duration before it becomes an addiction depend on several factors, including the type and purity of the drug, the substances used to manufacture the drug, the quantity taken, the physical traits of the user (such as weight, height, age, metabolism, and body fat), the duration and frequency of drug abuse, the manner of ingestion (i.e., injection, oral, or inhalation), the user’s mental health and surrounding environment, and the use of a cocktail of drugs that often includes alcohol.

This begs the question: what does it mean to misuse drugs, particularly prescription medication?

Misusing prescription medicines implies using a drug in a manner contrary to professional medical advice, such as taking more than the prescribed number of pills, crushing tablets to snort or shoot up, procuring drugs using someone else’s prescription, or simply getting high on drugs not intended for you. Gradually, increasingly larger quantities of the drug are needed to experience the same feel-good effect, and your brain and body just can’t do without it because, with time, higher tolerance levels increase a person’s dosage requirements for experiencing the same level of euphoria or whatever effect the drug promises.

The patient usually feels anxious, ill, and irritable without taking the drug. Some of the harmful effects of drug addiction include trouble with decision-making and focusing on things, remembering things, irregular heartbeat, panic attacks, paranoia, and damage to the lungs, heart, and kidneys.

Drugs impact how a person behaves, thinks, and feels, as it affects the body’s central nervous system or CNS. Depressants, hallucinogens, and stimulants are the three primary categories of drugs that have damaging consequences on the CNS.

How it Affects your Brain

The chemicals present in drugs change the manner of sending, receiving, and analyzing information by the nerve cells. Drugs imitate the natural chemical messengers of the brain, over-stimulate the “reward circuit”, send abnormal messages by filling the brain with excessive chemicals, and attach themselves to the brain’s receptors.

Although drug addiction is considered to be a relapsing and chronic brain disease, some substances and drugs also alter the brain’s chemistry and enhance the risk of mood disorders and depression. Other drugs are associated with brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and alcohol have the most dangerous impact on the brain’s health. If one keeps ignoring the symptoms of alcohol or substance abuse for a prolonged period, it can result in long-term health issues and may even lead to a higher risk of death. A detox center for addressing symptoms of drug and alcohol abuse helps restore the brain’s balance and reverse or improve the damage caused by substance abuse.

Decoding the Science Behind a Comedown

The after effect or “comedown” refers to how the body reacts to drugs that a user has taken. It describes the feeling that occurs after the initial reaction. A person’s gender, tolerance level, and age determine the duration and severity of the comedown. Some common after-effects are exhaustion, headaches, depression, nausea, fatigue, sweating, dizziness, feeling shaky, not feeling hungry or sleepy, or an inability to sleep.

One can get in touch with a detox center and sign up for drug rehab programs specifically targeted at addressing and managing the effects of a comedown.

Fighting Your Drug Addiction

If you’ve come to terms with your drug addiction and have realized that you need help, you have already taken the first step in the right direction. Whether you are looking to address concerns relating to alcohol withdrawal or suboxone withdrawal symptoms, heroin rehab, or methadone clinics, choosing a drug rehab program that’s tailored to your needs treats the root of the problem. Alcohol and drug rehab centers treat addiction in its entirety by using a range of therapies. For example, if a person is suffering from alcohol withdrawal or suboxone withdrawal symptoms, drug detox is used to treat a user’s physical dependence on alcohol and drugs, while other therapies are used to address the psychological disorders that are triggered or aggravated by the addiction, as well as mental issues behind the craving for drugs. One can consider medication-based therapy (also known as replacement therapy) for opioid drugs by contacting methadone clinics for heroin rehab or addiction issues related to prescription painkillers.

 

Outpatient Detox

If being hospitalized puts you off for practical and/or personal reasons, you can consider outpatient detox programs such as an outpatient alcohol rehab program or ambulatory outpatient care to walk down the path of a successful and safe recovery from addiction issues. These programs can be customized based on affordability and offer the flexibility to continue working as well as receive treatment. One can avail of ambulatory outpatient services at a doctor’s chamber or clinic, an emergency room, an outpatient department at a hospital, and other places. Outpatient detox programs focus on counseling sessions, educating a patient, and providing a support system involving family members and close friends. For instance, if a patient needs outpatient alcohol rehab, they can explore options such as Day Programs and Intensive Outpatient Programs, and seek the support of Continuing Care Groups to successfully finish the program.

One can define recovery from addiction as staying clean and relearning or exploring healthy ways to deal with life’s problems. As you start thinking and feeling positive, stay away or avoid people or places that might trigger a relapse, and re-establish family ties and bonds with your friends and colleagues, the journey to discovering a new and better life begins.

 

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AVOIDING RELAPSE DURING COVID19

Nationally Recognized Addiction Expert, Dr. Indra Cidambi, Suggests Ways to Maintain Sobriety

New Jersey, NY – May 5th, 2020 – The myriad restrictions and dislocations caused by COVID19 is challenging to everyone, worldwide. “But for people in recovery, it has created the perfect storm for relapse,” noted Dr. Indra Cidambi, a nationally acclaimed Addiction Expert and Medical Director of New Jersey-based Center for Network Therapy. “The proven triggers for relapse – stress, anxiety, boredom and financial strain – are present concurrently during this crisis, and it is important to cope with them effectively to prevent relapse,” she added.

 

Restrictions imposed by COVID19 make it difficult to “manage your environment,” a primary relapse prevention technique, to get away from certain triggers. So, Dr. Cidambi offers people afflicted by substance use disorders alternate strategies to stay sober and healthy:

 

Stay Active

Not having anything to do will feed into the negativity of the situation. Remember the things you always wished you had the time to do – color code your clothes, get your financial documents in order, etc. – get these done. It will keep you distracted, and reduce stress in the future.

Get Moving

Working out is a good way to kill time, reduce stress and stay healthy. Various exercise, yoga, and meditation regimens are available online at no cost. Pick one that is suitable to your living situation and practice daily.

Stock Medications

Line up your doctor appointments in advance as they are more restricted, and pharmacies are not fully stocked – you don’t want to run out of buprenorphine or naltrexone that help you remain abstinent.

Leverage Support System

Attend AA and NA meetings regularly through online platforms and talk to your sponsor by phone to process your triggers and feelings as they arise. This will reduce stress and provide you with tools and strategies to cope with people and situations around you.

Utilize Telehealth

Access your therapist or other health care providers through telehealth platforms, as health insurance providers have eased reimbursement restrictions during COVID19. Call your provider for details.

Quit Smoking

Recent research suggests that smokers who contract COVID19 are 2.4 times more likely than non-smokers to face severe outcomes – ICU admission, need for mechanical ventilation or death. It may be time to think seriously about quitting smoking. FDA approved, over-the-counter smoking cessation products are safe and effective and you may want to consider using them.

 

“Resisting cravings caused by triggers is important because, if you give in to them, it will only make the cravings stronger the next time around,” said Dr. Cidambi.

 

For more information on substance abuse, chemical dependency, addiction and treatment please go to www.RecoveryCNT.com.

 

About Dr. Indra Cidambi

Indra Cidambi, M.D., is recognized as America’s leading addiction treatment expert. She started New Jersey’s first licensed Ambulatory (Outpatient) Detoxification program for all substances seven years ago at CNT. Dr. Cidambi is Board Certified in General Psychiatry and double Board Certified in Addiction Medicine (ABAM, ABPN). She is the President of the New Jersey Society of Addiction Medicine. She is fluent in five languages, including Russian.

About Center for Network Therapy

Center for Network Therapy (CNT) was the first facility in New Jersey to be licensed to provide Ambulatory (Outpatient) Detoxification Services for all substances of abuse – alcohol, anesthetics, benzodiazepines and opiates. Led by a Board Certified Addiction Psychiatrist, experienced physicians and nurses closely monitor patient progress. With CNT’s superior client care and high quality treatment, Dr. Cidambi and her clinical team have successfully detoxed roughly over 2000 patients in seven years. CNT also offers Partial Care and IOP programs.

 

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Holiday Binge Drinking: 5 Warning Signs of Alcohol Abuse

When the holiday season reaches its peak, parties and the prevalent cheerful mood give us every reason to bring out the booze and raise a toast to the numerous celebratory occasions in our lives. But on the flip side, even those who tag themselves as social drinkers tend to cross the line and indulge in binge drinking, especially in these hard times of social distancing. As more and more people are forced to go into self-quarantine and remain at home for days on end due to the pandemic created by the deadly novel coronavirus, binge drinking has taken on a new form and meaning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, binge drinking has emerged as the commonest pattern of alcohol abuse in the USA.

Dr. Indra Cidambi, an addiction expert and a leading exponent of Addiction Medicine, draws our attention to the 5 warning signs of alcohol abuse, particularly during the holiday season; more to the point, during this trying time when isolation is the order of the day and there’s little else to do.

The first symptom seen in people with alcohol addiction is the emotional crutch that alcohol becomes. People who suffer from stress while going about their daily routine sometimes find it too difficult to go on, particularly now, when being cooped up at home causes a sense of isolation from the rest of the world. This leads to some people reaching out for the bottle and indulge in binge drinking to find an escape route from this novel type of stress.

Dr. Cidambi states that nearly all individuals trying to cope with addiction end up abusing their preferred substance due to emotional issues. She adds that drinking alcohol as a way to alleviate feelings of negativity is a dangerous practice because it merely offers a short-lived respite from stress and can take the form of alcohol abuse in the long run.

Second, one of the early signs of alcohol abuse is not realizing one’s limits, i.e., not realizing you went overboard until it was too late. A lot of people keep drinking without realizing the number of drinks they’re having and, as a result, are taken by surprise by the inebriation that rapidly engulfs them.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, if the quantity of alcohol consumed results in the blood alcohol percentage reaching 0.08% or more, it is defined as binge drinking. In other words, consuming alcohol can be termed as binge drinking if men consume about 5 drinks or more and women have 4 drinks or more in a span of 2 hours.

The third warning sign that Dr. Cidambi points out is not being able to stop once you start. She explains that if an individual invariably finishes an entire bottle of wine after opening it or drinks a bottle of beer but still feels the need or urge to keep at it until they’ve reached a point of intoxication, the person is unable to check their drinking habit and might be suffering from addiction.

According to evidence from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of 6 adults in America indulges in binge drinking approximately 4 times in a month, drinking around 8 drinks per binge-drinking session.

Fourth, if a person starts letting responsibilities slide, it is a warning sign that the individual might need help. Dr. Cidambi draws our attention to the fact that if an individual starts neglecting important tasks or jobs, the person may have a drinking issue. She adds that if a person gives undue importance to drinking over their routine activities or tasks, it is a signal to take it easy.

For instance, if a person is was partying the previous night like there’s no tomorrow and ends up being late for work, or an individual opts for drinking instead of exercising, it is time to seek help.

Finally, if a person is not comfortable in social situations with no alcohol, they should consider seeking help. During the holiday season, some individuals feel uneasy and, in all probability, turn down invites if they are faced with a situation where they are invited to social gatherings and are aware of the fact that their drinking habits would be frowned upon by another person.

According to Dr. Cidambi, it is alright to enjoy a drink or two but if someone needs at least a couple of drinks to interact with other people at a social gathering, the person might have an issue.

Dr. Cidambi points out that a majority of people who indulge in binge drinking should not be tagged as alcoholics, and a drinking problem does not necessarily end in addiction all the time. But if you are aware that a person indulges in binge drinking or consumes excessive amounts of alcohol, it is prudent to get in touch with a physician and sign up for a substance abuse evaluation or enroll in alcohol and drug treatment programs in your area to seek assistance.

 

Drug Rehab in New Jersey

If you want to help a loved one suffering from an addiction and are looking for advice, guidance, counseling or information on treatment options (including heroin rehab and detoxification for other substances), or a friend or colleague is suffering from symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, please log on to www.recoveryCNT.com.

 

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How to Identify the Telltale Signs of Addiction in your Kids?

Summer holidays have arrived and it’s time for students to head home from college and teenagers to look forward to spending time outside school. According to Dr. Indra Cidambi, an addiction expert and a leading name in Addiction Medicine, excessive free time on their hands and, invariably, no adult supervision, results in enhancing the susceptibility of these kids to cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs. That’s why this is the right time to keep a close watch on your children’s habits and look for any evidence of addiction. It has also recently been found that adolescents are more exposed to the dangers of substance abuse in the summertime.

Dr. Cidambi has been working with patients suffering from substance abuse disorders for more than 10 years and has observed that people who have addiction issues began experimenting when they were as young as 13 years old – with marijuana. Therefore, the sooner you talk to your children about substance abuse and look out for warning signs, the better. Although we are all aware that addiction brings about a change in an individual, it is often not easy to recognize the signs in your own kids as they take you by surprise and are often confused with the challenges of growing up.

There are 5 common changes that can be identified in people suffering from substance abuse. Dr. Cidambi speaks about these changes:

• First, one can notice a change in friends. As your child starts getting addicted and substances take precedence and start consuming your kid’s life, it typically results in a change in who they hang out with. Your child starts spending more time with his or her “new friends” who support and approve your kid’s newly discovered lifestyle, while the old group of friends slowly start disappearing as they do not want to be a part of such behavior or activities. Dr. Cidambi believes that, in many cases, adolescents end up with a substance abuse problem as a solution to overcome stress or gain acceptance by their peer group, whom they find to be “cool.” She adds that it is necessary to speak to your children each day and try to be aware of what is happening in their lives, help them to understand their feelings, and nurture an atmosphere where they can turn to you first and seek assistance in finding a solution to the issues bothering them.

 

• Second, one should be cautious about changes in behavior. According to Dr. Cidambi, substance abuse seen in young children can be reflected in changes in mood, difficulties in doing homework or slipping grades in school, social interaction changes, worsening mood swings, and increased risk-taking. Dr. Cidambi further explains that one can easily notice the changes in a person during social interactions. For example, if your kid is extrovert but, all of a sudden, prefers to keep to himself or herself or looks away when speaking to anyone, you should be concerned. If your child is irritated, stays depressed or morose, that should also ring alarms bells as it could be a telltale sign. Automobile accidents, driving irresponsibly or recklessly, and unexplained scratches or dents on the vehicle could be early warning signs.

 

• Third, changes in appearance should be looked at carefully. Dr. Cidambi states that if your child’s appearance catches you off-guard, chances are that something is wrong. She adds that if your kid becomes sloppy about the way they dress, sports an untidy or disheveled look or suffers from a continuing case of a runny nose, it could be time for you to sit down and talk to your child. Although it is not easy to accept the harsh fact that your kid is gradually starting to look like an addict, it is vital to identify and recognize changes in the way they look; particularly, glassy or red eyes, inexplicable marks on the legs or arms or a preference for arm-covering clothing in summer, and incessant scratching of the arms and face.

 

• Fourth, a change in their favorite hobbies deserves attention. Dr. Cidambi points out that if your child does not enjoy their hobbies or the things that they loved doing previously, like playing soccer, dancing, ice-skating, or training in gymnastics or martial arts, it could be that they have become obsessed with acquiring and abusing alcohol or drugs and it is dominating all facets of their being. The hobbies that they once found stimulating seem to lose their importance. The activities or hobbies that had positive and constructive elements and resulted in emotional and intellectual motivation fail to attract them as they turn to alcohol and drugs to deal with the emptiness this creates.

 

• Lastly, a change in eating habits is one of the most easily noticeable signs of substance abuse. Dr. Cidambi emphasizes that usually, parents tend to quickly notice this sign of substance abuse. Based on what they’ve become dependent on, your kid can develop several new food habits, the sudden urge to keep eating (aka the “munchies”) or a loss of appetite. These sudden shifts in dietary habits can result in a harmful effect on your kid’s health and wellbeing and nutritional requirement and need to be dealt with.

 

Drug Rehab NJ

If you’re worried about your children and are exploring options for drug rehab centers in NJ, you can contact us for guidance and more details on treatment options for addiction, signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and suboxone withdrawal, and substance abuse evaluation. For more information, please visit us at www.recoveryCNT.com

 

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Is Your Physician Unknowingly Boosting Your Addiction?

Opioid and benzodiazepine abuse are a significant issue in the U.S. Some patients may be unaware of the fact that they are now addicted to either benzodiazepine or an opioid until they give it up and start feeling the effects of benzodiazepine withdrawal or opioid withdrawal; at this point, the need to detoxify becomes increasingly important.

Often, patients rush to seek the advice of their doctors or turn to urgent care centers and other facilities offering medical intervention. Although the health care patients receive there is medically sound, a considerable number of doctors are not too proficient at understanding controlled substances and are absolutely clueless about the fact that these medications are habit-forming.

Doctors and nurses treat a large number of patients on a daily basis and are invariably swamped with too much work. If a person comes with a complaint of acute pain, prescribing opioids is often the easier option.

Dr. Cidambi believes that many doctors lack the expertise to delve deep into and understand the cause or source of a patient’s anxiety or pain because a majority of these physicians and nurses are family practitioners who don’t always have the knowledge or expertise that a psychiatrist or pain specialist does. More than 50% of these medicines are prescribed by nurses or doctors who are primary care providers.

This begs the question: why do some doctors unknowingly prescribe medications for alcohol withdrawal or suboxone withdrawal and facilitate a patient’s addiction to controlled substances?

When to Prescribe Opioid or Benzodiazepine

• Pain: If a person is suffering from pain, one can prescribe opioid medicines only if the pain is acute. If the pain is due to an ankle that’s been sprained or because of muscular cramps during the menstruation cycle, one should steer clear of opioid medication. Patients should always ask their primary care providers regarding the risks associated with opioid medications; one should aim at striking a balance between the risks involved and benefits they can expect.

If a patient takes opioid medications for pain for a duration of more than 90 days, they should undergo a substance abuse evaluation to find out whether they are developing an addiction.

The best approach is to wean a patient away from these medications as fast as possible and prescribe pain medications that are non-addictive. One can also consider alternative methods of alleviating pain, like yoga, massage, meditation, or acupuncture.

• Anxiety: Often, patients suffering from anxiety are prescribed benzodiazepines but it should not be given for extended periods as part of any therapy plan.

Several patients who take benzodiazepines for diagnosed mental health disorders develop a reliance on these medicines. Once a patient successfully completes the acute phase of the treatment plan, they can be introduced to alternative treatment options that are just as effective in the long term.

• ADHD: Highly addictive medicines are commonly prescribed by doctors for patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. These medicines are also known as stimulants. Two common medications that are prescribed for patients suffering from ADHD are Ritalin and Adderall. Patients often misuse such medication.

If the medicines are used for a long duration and affect a loved one’s quality of life, it might be time to transition to other forms of therapy.

Patients who use such medicines are often not addicted to them in the beginning. Although there is an improvement in the symptoms of anxiety or acute pain, such patients may find it difficult to perform their daily activities normally or get through the day without them.

 

What Can Aid the Withdrawal?

If a patient decides to quit these medicines cold turkey, they might find it extremely difficult if they’ve developed a chemical dependence on it. Also, it might be counterintuitive to suddenly stop taking these medicines because it exposes them to the risk of having a stroke or a seizure.

Drug Rehab NJ

Get in touch with as soon as possible if you have any queries on prescription drugs and related chemical dependency or require advice and guidance on addiction.

 

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Outpatient Drug Treatment

Recall the first time you experimented with drugs or alcohol! Maybe it was due to peer pressure. Maybe you wanted to look cool. You always thought you were too smart to be “hooked” on drugs. You always believed you could quit having fun with drugs or alcohol whenever you wished. Little did you realize that your life would be taken over by addiction and turned on its head. Your education, career, health, relationships and finances have been battered and your future looks bleak!

The reason you are addicted to drugs or alcohol has everything to do with chemistry and nothing to do with your good intentions or will power. Addiction sets in when constant use of drugs and alcohol rewires the chemical pathways in your brain to sustain the addiction. Before you first used alcohol or drugs, recall that you felt a rush of pleasure when you saw delicious food, indulged in your hobbies, or thought of sex. That is because the brain released a pleasure neuro transmitter called dopamine in response to such stimuli. Drugs or alcohol stimulate the brain to release much larger quantities of dopamine than usual day-to-day activities. Over time your brain gets used to receiving a stimulus from drugs or alcohol to release large quantities of dopamine instead of releasing dopamine in response to daily activities. Now, previously pleasurable daily activities no longer seem pleasurable and stimulus from alcohol or drugs is “needed” to feel normal. This change in the chemical pathways serve to sustain addiction and make it a chronic disease, as the addicted individual now needs drugs or alcohol to just feel normal! That is why alcohol or drug treatment is needed as it is hard to just “give up” abusing substances.

Although dulled by drugs or alcohol, there is a persistent little voice in your head that keeps telling you that your life is spinning out of control and that you need help. However, you are apprehensive about taking that first step – you have to confide to your loved ones about your issue, although they likely know you do; you have to give up your trusted “companion” who has provided an escape as life’s problems came at you; you are afraid of withdrawal, which you know is painful; you are unsure of where to begin alcohol or drug treatment, as it all seems so intimidating.

The old adage holds true: Begin at the beginning! First take your loved ones into confidence and enlist their support. You will be surprised at how supportive they are once they know you are willing to enter alcohol or drug treatment. Second, work with your loved ones to find a facility that provides good addiction treatment. The clinical team should be led by an ASAM certified physician which means the physician is Board Certified in Addiction Medicine. This will ensure that you experience minimal withdrawal symptoms as you go through the alcohol or drug detoxification process. There should also be a psychiatrist on staff to address any mental health issues that surface or re-surface during treatment. The alcohol or drug treatment team should also provide supportive therapy – cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, or DBT and Motivational Interviewing, or MI. This will help address psychological issues, and provide coping skills to deal with the loss of a “go to” coping mechanism (drugs or alcohol) and relapse prevention techniques. Treatment should continue after alcohol or drug detox and the longer the length of treatment, the better, as addiction is a chronic disease.

You are also apprehensive about alcohol or drug treatment, as you have seen many of your friends being sent away to inpatient treatment far removed from their living environment – sometimes to another state. While it is true alcohol and drug detoxification, the most acute phase of addiction treatment, was delivered exclusively in an outpatient setting in the past, outpatient detoxification now offers a safer and more effective option. For a few years now, ambulatory, or outpatient detoxification has been licensed for alcohol, opiates, benzodiazepines and anesthetics. It delivers better outcomes relative to inpatient detoxification due to better integration with the patient’s home environment. Find out how outpatient drug treatment could make accessing treatment less daunting by scheduling a substance abuse evaluation, if you are looking at options for drug rehabilitation or alcohol rehabilitation in New Jersey.

Like for all other chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension or even contagious HIV, treatment is almost always provided on an outpatient basis. Outpatient alcohol and drug treatment allows you to access high-quality treatment while living at home. As treatment integrates your home living environment, the learning that happens in therapy and drug counseling sessions can be applied to the activities that make up your daily routine and tested. The duration of treatment depends on your individual needs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA recommends up to 30 hours a week of programming. In case you experience a crisis at home, outpatient detox treatment providers are reachable 24X7.

Drug Counseling

Group and individual substance abuse counseling is an integral part of rehabilitation. SAMHSA lists various types of therapy to achieve long-term sobriety and may include the following: cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, contingency management, motivational enhancement therapy, group counseling, medication, case management services, lectures and educational programs and, most importantly, family support. Some specialized forms of treatment:

• Partial Hospitalization Programs: This is suitable for individuals with severe medical conditions or psychological issues. Usually, people enrolled in these programs meet for 3-5 days each week for periods of four hours or more in a hospital or clinic but can go home at night.

• Intensive Outpatient Programs: Patients receive intensive treatment for a minimum of nine hours a week and typically meet 3-5 days a week. The frequency of the sessions decreases as one progresses and achieves milestones in the rehab program. Such programs are suitable for individuals with severe issues, co-occurring or dual disorders, or those who have multiple relapses but do not require round-the-clock supervision.

Outpatient Alcohol and Drug Rehab in NJ

Outpatient alcohol and drug rehab is gaining popularity due to its higher efficacy. The advent of new medications over the past few years that address withdrawal symptoms from drugs and alcohol more effectively has played a major role. The second most important factor, in our view, is that science has proven that addiction is a chronic disease as it causes changes in the brain. These changes take years to revert back to normal and patients cannot be quarantined in an inpatient setting for this long a period of time! They have to learn to live in their home environment through therapy. Other chronic diseases such as diabetes HIV or hypertension hardly ever call for inpatient treatment, let alone being carted off to far off locales.

Inpatient alcohol and drug treatment is based on the belief that addiction is a behavioral problem and the individual involved needs to be isolated from his/her living environment in order to learn modified behaviors. This is akin to incarceration and reduces motivation to seek treatment. Outpatient detoxification, on the other hand, reduces the stigma associated with addiction as it normalizes addiction to a chronic disease. Ambulatory detoxification also increases access to treatment as individuals afflicted by the disease of addiction often find it difficult to “drop” their lives and go away for treatment. This is especially true for homemakers with school going children or individuals with high pressure jobs such as lawyers.

“Reach NJ” is an initiative launched by Gov. Christie (now getting an overhaul by the Murphy administration with a $5 million budget) to help find facilities that provide treatment for addiction. It is generally preferable to find facilities that are in-network with your health insurance provider as costs to you are likely to be the lowest possible. One such facility is Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com) that is in-network with all major private health insurance providers in the North East.

Find a center close to you and avail of addiction treatment tailored to your needs and personal circumstances. Call us now and we can help! CNT has 3 addiction treatment centers in New Jersey.

The Dangers Of COVID-19 And Substance Disorders

As the coronavirus pandemic threatens our way of life, everything is changing and everyone is adapting. Remember, individuals suffering from substance use disorders are at higher risk of contracting Coronavirus due to comorbid conditions and urban/suburban demographics. If you or a loved one suffer from addiction, it is critical that treatment is accessed immediately!

 

• Opioids, meth, alcohol, smoking/vaping, etc. can suppress respiratory function, restrict blood vessels and aggravate respiratory distress caused by COVID-19.
• Risk of overdose is greater, as life-saving measures such as CPR or the administration of naloxone may not be as effective.

 

Individuals who need urgent withdrawal management or detoxification services may be unable or unwilling to go inpatient due to a higher perceived risk of infection. Luckily, there is a more effective outpatient option for detoxification from alcohol, anesthetics, benzos and opiates.

 

The Center for Network Therapy is the first licensed ambulatory or outpatient detoxification program (all substances). Outpatient detox works better due to the integration of the patient’s living environment into treatment, customization of medication protocols and longer length of stay. CNT has 3 locations – West Orange, Middlesex and Freehold. We adhere to CDC hygiene standards during the ongoing pandemic. CNT is in-network with all major health insurance plans – Aetna, AmeriHealth, Cigna, Horizon BCBS (EPO, HMO, PPO), BCBS family, United Healthcare/Optum/Oxford, MagnaCare, Qualcare, Oscar, etc.

 

All of CNT’s locations are open and accepting patients immediately. Please call now for admission today: 732 484 9661.

 

Exploring Optimal Approaches to Treat Addiction to Alcohol or Drugs

Alcohol abuse or alcohol dependency is one of the most significant issues still plaguing our modern society. The excessive consumption of or dependency on alcohol can give rise to many social and personal problems. Over the long term, it can have significant detrimental effects on the mind and body. Individuals addicted to alcohol or those who abuse alcohol face several issues due to their addiction, and yet the biggest challenge they face is when it comes to quitting alcohol. This is because quitting alcohol is not just about kicking a bad habit, it involves putting your entire system through what is known as alcohol withdrawal.

If you or somebody you know is planning on quitting alcohol, you should be aware that you’re in for a bit of a challenge. Before you opt for alcohol detox or rehab of any sort, you should be aware of alcohol withdrawal symptoms and how to seek appropriate medical help so that you do not experience seizures or stroke caused by withdrawal.

Understanding alcohol withdrawal

Let’s first start with the basics and then dive deeper into the concept of withdrawal. In simple terms, alcohol withdrawal can be defined as the changes your entire system goes through when you quit drinking. The most important thing to understand here is that even though alcohol consumption appears to have a temporary effect on your body, its impact can last for years and can potentially modify the way your system functions and behaves. This is because alcohol affects your central nervous system. It primarily acts as a depressant and suppresses some significant neurotransmitters in your brain. The result is that you end up feeling relaxed and more at ease.

However, excessive alcohol consumption gets you used to the depressant effect. You develop a dependency on it over time and this is the most damaging aspect of alcohol abuse. However, if you suddenly stop consuming alcohol, your neurotransmitters are kicked into overdrive. Your body struggles to adjust to the change and you will end up experiencing numerous physical and mental effects. It is this readjustment phase that is referred to as alcohol withdrawal. This can be very uncomfortable physically and carries the risk of seizures or even stroke.

Here, it’s also important to understand that withdrawal could work differently for different people. One size does not fit all and there are no simple answers to questions like what are the exact withdrawal symptoms, how long will they last and so on. It all depends on several factors like level of addiction, frequency of consumption, age, sex, lifestyle, etc. For many people, the sheer thought of undergoing withdrawal scares them away from quitting. In general, there is a fairly low level of awareness about the issue and, as a result, people either don’t quit at all or randomly go cold turkey and then face the adverse effects of withdrawal. A bad withdrawal experience often prompts people to start drinking again so it is important for you to educate yourself well before embarking on this journey.

Symptoms of withdrawal

While withdrawal symptoms might manifest themselves very differently for different people, here are a few pointers that should act as guidelines for you and give you an idea of what to expect in the days to come. Withdrawal symptoms can range from something minor like hand tremors and palpitations to life-threatening conditions like delirium tremens. Seizures, or even stroke. The first 48 hours are the most crucial though it is important for you to keep monitoring yourself throughout the withdrawal process. Let’s break down some of the common symptoms for you –

First 24 hours

● Nausea

● Feelings of anxiety

● Restlessness

● Tremors

● Dizziness

● Feelings of agitation

24 to 48 hours

This is the most crucial phase of withdrawal since it’s also the time when the most severe symptoms might kick in. Alcohol cravings reach a crescendo and your body struggles to cope with the changes. This is also the time when many heavy drinkers might end up facing what is known as acute alcohol withdrawal. Here are some of the ways in which withdrawal will manifest itself at this stage –

● Perspiration

● Hallucinations

● Spikes in blood pressure

● Raised body temperatures

● Seizures

● Delirium tremens

Delirium tremens is a serious condition which needs immediate medical attention. Besides these symptoms, it can also cause irregular blood flow in the brain leading to seizures or stroke.

In general, the worst manifestations of withdrawal usually resolve within five to six days. Again, it all depends on the level of addiction, age, and other such factors. In extreme cases, some people experience what is known as acute withdrawal symptoms.

Acute withdrawal symptoms

Acute withdrawal can occur even weeks after quitting alcohol and can be potentially life-threatening. Severe symptoms like delirium tremens and seizures are common and require immediate attention. It is not possible to deal with acute symptoms without medical treatment. This is also why heavy drinkers and those who mix drugs with alcohol are advised to opt for medically-supported withdrawal.

Let’s explore the treatment options for alcohol withdrawal and see how medication can play an important role in it.

Alcohol withdrawal treatment

Alcohol withdrawal is a serious and complicated issue, one that is regularly discussed in medical circles. During this phase of withdrawal, one needs to not only deal with the symptoms which can be potentially life-threatening but also ensure that the patient doesn’t slide back into drinking as a result of those symptoms. There is always a fear of acute withdrawal symptoms kicking in as well. Which is why WHO and the NHS have put in place specific guidelines when it comes to dealing with something like this.

Supported withdrawal

First, let’s begin by diving deeper and understanding the concept of supported or medically supported withdrawal. It is a well-known fact that alcohol withdrawal will cause drastic changes in your body and will affect your day-to-day life. Besides changing the way your brain reacts and functions, it also results in a number of deficiencies that have to be addressed to avoid further complications. To this end, doctors recommend a course of medication to go along with your withdrawal process. Why is this necessary? Let’s explore.

Alcohol withdrawal completely throws your body out of balance. This includes pulse rate, base temperature, blood pressure, and more. A doctor treating alcohol withdrawal will first seek to stabilize all these fluctuating physical aspects. The aim is to keep your system running as normally as possible. Maintaining water balance in the body is also a very important factor. Withdrawal can cause a number of issues like vomiting and diarrhea which further lead to acute dehydration.

In such cases, intravenous fluids might be required to maintain the smooth functioning of the liver and kidneys. Electrolyte imbalances can also occur from dehydration: reports indicate that low levels of magnesium can, in fact, give rise to seizures and delirium. IV fluids can, once again, help address this problem. Alcoholics are also at risk of developing something known as Wernicke’s Syndrome. This is a condition that manifests in the form of extreme confusion, weakening of muscles, and ocular abnormalities. This mainly happens due to the depletion of thiamine in the body. Most doctors recommend starting the withdrawal period with a dose of thiamine with subsequent lower doses at regular intervals.

Treatment options

However, don’t let all this medical jargon scare you. The aim of detox or assisted withdrawal is to provide the patient with comfort and care. All you need to do is follow medical instructions, take your medication and focus on the healing process. What’s more, you can also choose your method of treatment and opt between outpatient treatment or inpatient care. Let’s explore both alternatives.

Outpatient treatment

Outpatient care for alcohol withdrawal is a more recent trend, based on the belief that addiction is a disease and not a behavioral issue. In the past, people had no other option but to book themselves or their family members into rehab, as addiction was viewed as a behavioral problem. Now, more and more people are opting for outpatient care and it has proved to be remarkably effective. Some reports indicate that almost 70% of people receiving withdrawal treatment are doing so in an outpatient capacity.

In general, no specific statistics exist to indicate whether this form of treatment is better or worse than getting admitted to a treatment facility; and, in general, outpatient care is easier and more convenient. Besides, it also helps patients stay committed since they don’t need to isolate themselves from their friends or family.

There are no specific criteria used to determine whether or not somebody qualifies for outpatient care. More recently, only people who do not have a modicum of family support are recommended for inpatient detox. Even individuals with a history of seizures or delirium tremens, can choose to receive outpatient treatment. Outpatient treatment works better when the patient has some support at home. The family can also monitor their physical symptoms and ensure they are safe.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient care is the traditional option when it comes to alcohol withdrawal, though it is not necessary for most people. Only those people who do not have any familial support need inpatient treatment. Also, people experiencing active delirium tremens or seizures may be good candidates for inpatient treatment. In an inpatient treatment facility, patients are given the same medical detox protocols as in an outpatient setting.

Support at home is not needed as the patient is isolated from his living environment and monitored 24 hours a day. The withdrawal phase is not easy and monitoring helps. Inpatient treatment isolates the patient from external influences. Although for a temporary period of time.

Coping and living with alcohol withdrawal

While medical intervention is absolutely necessary, dealing with alcohol withdrawal calls for several significant lifestyle changes. While your first step should be to seek medical advice, these pointers could help you deal with your alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Stay hydrated

The importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated when it comes to dealing with alcohol withdrawal. During the withdrawal period, your body constantly loses fluids and essential minerals along with it. So make sure you are not only drinking plenty of water but also loading up on electrolytes. Instead of opting for electrolyte-rich juices or drinks, you can always consume fruits by including them in your daily diet.

Prepare for the cravings

Alcohol is a highly addictive substance. If you are at the point where you are facing withdrawal symptoms, you should know that you will constantly crave alcohol. It goes beyond a simple mental craving and becomes an overarching physiological need akin to thirst, hunger or the need to sleep. Be prepared for the cravings and have your strategy in place beforehand. Many people take up hobbies to keep them distracted, while others prefer to surround themselves with friends or family.

If you feel you cannot do it by yourself, seek out the help of counselors. These counselors will handhold you through your withdrawal process and you will always have somebody to call in times of intense cravings. Whatever method you feel will work for you, make sure you have a plan in place well in advance.

Identify somebody you can count on

Dealing with alcohol withdrawal should never be a solo effort. Find a close friend or family member who you can rely on and let them handhold you through this journey. Confide in them and don’t be ashamed to share everything you are going through. They can not only help you through the journey but also act as an emergency contact in case you feel you might start drinking again. Very often, isolation and loneliness are the main causes of people giving up on their detox process.

Seek group therapy

AA meetings are an essential part of the recovery process. Surround yourself with people who are undergoing the same ordeal. Hear their stories and share your own. This will make you feel less lonely. On the other hand, this also helps instill a sense of community and common purpose. Alcoholics and people suffering from withdrawal often feel alienated and misunderstood.

Group therapy sessions help them to form a bond with other such people – and an individual struggle turns into a group effort. Many community centers offer self-help groups for people suffering from a dependence on alcohol. Go to a meeting and try to participate. Be vocal about your struggle and don’t be afraid to talk about the problems you face on a day-to-day basis. This will also help you deal with your cravings through positive reinforcement within the support group.

Avoid triggers

Every recovering alcoholic or person suffering through withdrawal will have certain significant triggers that might push them to consume alcohol. For some people, it could be something as simple as hanging out with a particular group of friends on weekends, while for others, stress could be an important trigger. You need to ask yourself one simple question – when do you feel like drinking the most? Then, make a list of all the things that might push you to have a drink and avoid them completely. If you have a social group that insists on drinking regularly, politely decline to spend time with them. If you know that work or personal stress might push you towards drinking, you need to find new ways of dealing with those stressors. Again, having a friend or family member who you can rely on can be of great value.

Meditate and exercise

While this might sound like very generic advice, meditation can help calm your body’s agitation during the withdrawal process. Through guided meditation, you will be able to ease your breathing, calm your heart rate, and become more mindful of your system. Exercise, too, can positively impact your body during withdrawal. The release of endorphins after a workout can help negate a lot of the cravings. This is why many people choose to take long walks to calm their restless systems.

Simple exercises will also help your body heal from alcohol abuse. Setting a regular exercise routine is always recommended by doctors and is of special importance when it comes to coping with withdrawal.

Helping someone deal with alcohol withdrawal

If somebody you know is dealing with alcohol withdrawal or seeking to quit drinking, there are many ways in which you can be of assistance. First and foremost, urge them to seek professional help. The detox process will be more successful if guided by a medical professional and less dangerous. You can offer to act as a companion through the withdrawal process and be their point of contact. This might mean giving them a lot of your time and being available whenever they need you. You will have to understand that most individuals suffering from addiction cannot face withdrawal alone so it’s always a good idea to learn as much about the process as you can so you can give them the best possible support.

Alcohol withdrawal might be a painful and sometimes long process. But it is a step in the direction of a stronger and healthier life. If you are thinking about quitting alcohol, you should know that you are not alone. Don’t be afraid to seek help and always prepare for the worst.

 

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5 Key Things to Look for in a Rehab Center

Addiction of any kind, be it to alcohol or drugs, is a dreaded affliction. Not only does it tend to destroy the individual who is addicted, but also impacts everyone in his network – friends or family. Many addiction or rehab treatment centers have effective substance abuse treatment programs that can help the individual overcome his/her addiction and restore a semblance of balance and normalcy to their lives.

With the presence of so many rehab facilities and addiction treatment programs, it is often difficult to figure out which one fits the individual’s needs; and one that also increases the chances of staying sober post-treatment. The right program is crucial to entering recovery successfully and maintaining sobriety. SO, it is important to make the right choice.

Rehab or addiction treatment centers follow a variety of approaches to addiction treatment and their results vary. Sometimes their success may be measured differently. Therefore, before you choose a rehab facility, be cognizant of your strengths and weaknesses and know your needs. You definitely want to choose an addiction treatment center that believes in Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), because multiple have proven it to be more effective in sustaining sobriety.

In MAT, buprenorphine, naltrexone or methadone is utilized to address withdrawal symptoms and cravings (see suboxone withdrawal) in order to alleviate physical discomfort and enable a person suffering from a substance use disorder to engage in therapy needed to effect lifestyle changes.

To help you, we have listed down five aspects you should consider while choosing a rehab center.

Access from Home

Traditional wisdom held that the addiction treatment facility should be far from the patient’s home so that the patient is removed from the environment that enabled his addiction. It was deemed safer for the individual suffering from addiction, as it removed triggers to substance abuse such as usual haunts, toxic family relationships and enabling friends. The major flaw with this approach is that it treats addiction as a behavioral problem and not as a chronic disease that it is.

In this approach, treatment equals incarceration. Patients are sent away to learn to modify their behaviors in a sterile environment. However, individuals suffering from addiction resent this treatment as they feel they are being punished for being addicted. While other chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and even contagious HIV are treated in an outpatient setting, addiction treatment has remained an exception.

Even today over 95% of detoxification, the most acute phase of addiction treatment, is performed in an inpatient setting. Besides, many people, especially women, hate to be torn away from their home environment in order to access treatment as they feel guilty about abdicating their responsibilities at home. Over the past decade or so, the availability of medications to treat addiction have expanded and MAT has proved effective.

Consequently, Outpatient detoxification, rehab and other treatment should be preferred over inpatient treatment, as it allows the integration of the home environment into treatment and helps to deliver better results. Outpatient or Ambulatory Detoxification has grown in popularity over the years as it has delivered far better results that inpatient detoxification.

Ambulatory detoxification is now offered for all substances of abuse – alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, painkillers, suboxone, kratom, anesthetics, ketamine and for poly substance abuse. Unless the patient’s living environment is compromised or the patient suffers from acute medical conditions that require 24-hour monitoring, it is always preferable to choose outpatient detoxification, rehab and other levels of treatment.

Length of Treatment

Addiction has been proven to be a chronic disease, and generally, the longer the length of treatment, the better. As explained below, changes in the brain take years to correct. While treatment usually does not last for a long time, self-help groups are important to maintain sobriety and provide a sense of community and shared values in order to stay on the path to sobriety.

 

A common marker utilized is 90 days of sobriety – after which it is said to become increasingly easier to maintain sobriety. However, the brain changes when a person gets addicted – the brain gets used to a rush of dopamine (the feel good neurotransmitter) due to stimulation from drugs and literally produces less than needed dopamine in response to usual stimuli such as food, sex, hobbies, or games. This change in the brain takes years to correct and individuals recovering from abuse of drugs or alcohol do not feel “normal” for 2-3 years after they stop using.

Having said the above, detoxification, the most acute phase of treatment, is key to putting people on the path to recovery. This is because individual suffering from withdrawal symptoms and cravings need to feel physically stable and comfortable in order to continue to engage in therapeutic treatment to effect lifestyle changes.

Longer length of stay in detoxification assures a much greater level of physical comfort at the end of detoxification, allowing individuals to be physically comfortable enough to engage in other levels of therapeutic treatment. Most inpatient programs offer detoxification for only 5 or 6 days because health insurance companies do not cover that level of treatment after that.

However, health insurance companies allow 12-14 days of stay in Ambulatory or Outpatient detoxification because of lower costs. This is beneficial for the patient, as the medication taper can be much more smoother eliminating the withdrawal symptoms and cravings patients experienced at the beginning of the process.

Approaches to Treatment

Basically there are two approaches to addiction treatment, whether inpatient or outpatient. One utilizes medication to assist with withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and the other is cold turkey with only talk therapy to assist. While the utilization of medication to assist with withdrawal symptoms and cravings was looked down upon as “drug-for-drug” substitution for a long time, it has now become the norm as studies have proved it to be vastly superior in delivering favorable outcomes.

Advances in medication have made a huge difference in addiction treatment. They have provided a useful tool in managing physical symptoms associated with quitting drugs and/or alcohol, enabling the individual suffering from the disease of addiction to become physically comfortable in a relatively short period of time and be able to engage in therapy to effect the lifestyle changes needed to maintain sobriety.

Consequently, it is recommended that medication assisted treatment be chosen over the alternative. The other major option in treatment is to get treated on an inpatient or outpatient basis. This has been discussed previously and we clearly prefer outpatient detoxification and rehab.

Expertise In treatment

While most of the higher quality facilities offer detoxification and other levels of treatment from all substances, some offer only detoxification from opiates. Since most people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol rarely abuse just one drug, it is preferable to pick a facility that treats addiction to just one substance. Worse is that some facilities without the broader expertise needed to detox individuals off of multiple substances, just detox the individual off of one substance, and completely ignore the abuse of other substances. This can be dangerous as it could lead to negative medical events.

Needless to say, a facility that can deal with the abuse of multiple substances should be preferred over ones that focus on only one substance.

Medical treatment can be expensive and out-of-pocket cost is a major factor. As a rule-of-thumb, addiction treatment facilities that enjoy in-network status with major private health insurance companies offer the most value. This is because treatment for addiction is almost always covered and deductibles and co-pays are the lowest possible.

There are many facilities that accept the same private health insurance but are in an out-of-network status with the same private health insurance companies but they cost more because the health insurance providers cover a smaller portion of the cost of treatment at these facilities. The remaining cost almost always fall on the patient, and adds to the stress.

Consequently, it is better to access treatment at facilities that enjoy in-network status with your health insurance provider.

 

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