Have you ever noticed how time and space blur together in those moments of pure concentration and bliss? When minutes become hours because you are utterly and completely absorbed in whatever it is you’re doing? Usually, this flow state occurs when we’re doing something creative: making music, writing, coloring, or even cuddling our pets.

When it comes to addiction, research shows that those who struggle with substance abuse often suffer from alexithymia, a condition where people find it hard to understand or describe their feelings and emotions and often turn to drugs or alcohol to calm and quiet their minds. Because many creative outlets do not require the use or even acknowledgement of words and speech, they can be powerful tools to utilize in addiction treatment. While not exclusive or exhaustive, the following list illustrates several different experiential modes of treatment that employ creativity as the main source for healing.

Dance

Benefits Of Creative Movement Therapy

Unlike a typical dance class with pink tights, slicked buns, and floor to ceiling mirrors, dance/movement therapy takes a simplified, more wholesome understanding of what it means to move, to dance. In its rawest and most basic form, dance/movement therapy places a strong emphasis on the body and the knowledge it holds, forcing the individual to re-inhabit their bodies and all the “stuff”—good and bad—that comes with it. “At the start of a dance/movement therapy session, it is important to establish physical connection [as] a pathway to recovery that enables the restoration of self-awareness, a skill that is hindered through the use of drugs and alcohol,” one researcher wrote in 1997.

Because substance abuse of all forms disconnects the self from the body, dance/movement therapy can be very powerful in helping the client reconnect and reunite with themselves. By observing patients moving freely, therapists can identify patterns and gestures and assist when they notice anything problematic or potentially harmful, such as movements that restrict free flowing breath or those that are spatially unaware.

“Dance/movement therapy provides natural opportunities to identify a range of feelings and sources of pain, creatively move through themes of escape and ambivalence, and confront, tolerate, or manage discomfort. Patterned movement and gestures that arise in group can be interpreted as efforts to deny, desensitize, or displace unwanted experiences.”

Yoga

Encourages Mindfulness, Reduces Stress Hormones

Like dance and movement, yoga requires a certain level of presence and awareness in both the mind and body. With roots drawing back to India nearly 5,000 years ago, yoga has long been practiced as a way to improve overall life quality through a strong mind-body connection. Through various components like breathwork, poses or postures (“asana”), meditation, and more, yoga requires and cultivates mindfulness and when practiced regularly has the potential to influence and improve our bodies’ response to external stimuli like stress.

All substance addictions, in one way or another, impact the way the brain functions. Overall discomfort, anxiety, and stress are just a handful of the psychological side effects that often prohibit people from seeking addiction treatment. As such, yoga can be a powerful tool in combatting those negative feelings. According to Sat Bir Khalsa, a researcher and professor at Harvard Medical School, “Yoga is an alternative[;] a positive way to generate a change in consciousness that, instead of providing an escape, empowers people with the ability to access a peaceful, restorative inner state that integrates the mind, body, and spirit.”

Music

Alternative Pathways For Dopamine Production

We tend to oversimplify or take for granted that which makes us feel the most alive inside. The feeling you get when you hear a new favorite song or when you finally master that challenging hand position required to produce a guitar chord. Music—both in the listening and creating—has been shown to elicit the “dopaminergic pathways in a similar manner as many illicit substances” which can, in turn, boost mood and lower cravings, according to the American Music Therapy Association, Inc. Additionally, listening to music can lower anxiety and promote relaxation by soothing the parasympathetic nervous system, which governs such responses as “fight or flight” when our senses are heightened.

By working with clients to get a whole picture of their listening habits, likes, and dislikes, the music therapist can create a plan that not only supports the client’s existing relationship with music, but also avoids any existing contraindications or triggers that might remind them of previous experiences that induce cravings. The assessment process before initial treatment begins differs based on clientele, therapist, and facility, but at a minimum “should assess the effects of substance misuse on the following domains of health: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.”

Art

Creative Expression Through Art

Unlike writing or engaging with certain genres of music, art is creativity crafted, molded, and manipulated with your hands and imagination rather than engaging with any language. Similar to dance and yoga, art—be it painting, sculpting, drawing, or even coloring—does not require an attention to words, and as such encourages a dive into the subconscious mind.

When it comes to using art as a creative alternative to other, more clinical modes of treating addiction, it is important to note the difference between using art in therapy versus using art as therapy. The former emphasizes the end goal or product of the art-making session and is usually done without the presence of a therapist. The latter centralizes the creative process and what it can teach us about our tendencies, thoughts, and emotions while under the guidance of a therapist. With the pressure to articulate thoughts and feelings into words eliminated, those struggling with addiction are free to express themselves more freely. Outlining a few of the many ways creativity can improve life quality, Psychology Today says that “engaging in a creative activity can open a new channel for people to connect with their emotions. People who have experienced trauma and are not yet ready to talk about it may be able to describe their pain through art.”

Animal Assisted Therapy

When Companionship Yields Comfortability

There are few things more comforting than snuggling up to a beloved animal. As it turns out, there is a scientific reason for this. Rooted in the inherent bond and companionship found between human and animal, animal-assisted therapy (AAT) utilizes this connection to draw upon and foster a person’s self-esteem, caregiving skills, and overall empathy.

While still relatively new in the lexicon of scientific research, many studies have illustrated the myriad of benefits animal interaction yields. Besides providing us comfort and company in times of loneliness, research has shown that interacting with animals actually lowers cortisol (a stress hormone) levels in the brain as well as blood pressure. When it comes to using animals in treating addiction, one study noted that when animals are present, it is easier for some patients to become more involved in the overall therapy process, something that therapists treating addiction issues often have a hard time with.

“When an animal is included in the treatment, it helps introspection and internalization, increases confidence in the therapeutic environment, provides security and confidence in therapy, and motivates the patient to share their feelings.”

Other Alternatives

This list outlines only a handful of the many experiential, creative alternatives to traditional addiction treatment. Acupuncture, emphasizing mindfulness, spiritual connection, and other more holistic modalities all hold merit in their ability to treat addiction. By utilizing human nature and the power of creativity as opposed to medication and other forms of generalized, more clinical care, individuals dealing with substance abuse are recognized as unique and wholesome people rather than one of the many.

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Is Creative Treatment Right For Me?

If you or someone you love is struggling under the weight of an addiction and you’ve tried more traditional methods of treatment or are simply curious about creative modalities and what might work best for you, contact a treatment provider. Treatment plans need to reflect the individuality and uniqueness of the person suffering from addiction; reach out today to learn more and jumpstart your recovery journey, creatively, today.

The post Creative Addiction Treatment appeared first on Addiction Center.

For as long as fruit has rotted on trees, human beings and their ancestors have had alcohol to drink; the history of rehab stretches back longer than we might think.

Opium poppies have flowered for thousands of years, Cannabis may have been featured in the rituals of ancient Egyptian pharaohs, and the use of tobacco may be more than 7,000 years old.

Addiction isn’t new. Addiction treatment isn’t new, either.

But addiction treatment and the nature of rehab — once rehab was invented — have changed tremendously. The minds of each era approached addiction treatment modalities differently, and the options that are available to the modern-day patient struggling with substance use disorders and mental health concerns have greatly improved.

Addiction specialists these days truly stand on the shoulders of giants, and it may be easier to appreciate just how sophisticated 21st-century treatments are with a glimpse into how they began.

History Of Rehab: Origins Of Treatment

The unfortunate truth of addiction treatment is that addiction didn’t always receive treatment — because addiction wasn’t always viewed as a disease.

Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher, viewed addiction as being an “incontinence of will.” In other words, those who struggled with moderating their use of substances were seen as being deficient of character.

Eventually, however, scholars and scientists realized that otherwise good and moral people had difficulty controlling their drinking or drugging; physician Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and early addiction scientist, was among the first to talk about addiction (specifically, alcoholism) as a disease.

Rush’s prescribed treatments for drunkenness might make us chuckle; the doctor recommended inducing vomiting in inebriated individuals by “thrusting a feather down the throat” in hopes of “exciting a puking.”

Further recommendations by Dr. Rush included cold-water baths, bloodletting, inducing negative emotions (like guilt, shame, and anger) in the addicted individual, and even whipping.

Unsurprisingly, these methods didn’t always work (indeed, some patients may have had to go see a different doctor after having seen Dr. Rush). But about 100 years after Rush’s death, addiction treatment took another leap forward: the world got its first rehab.

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Jazz And Methadone: The First Rehab

The federal government opened a drug treatment center, the first of its kind, deep in Kentucky in the 1930s.

Someone who walked by the center, known as the US Narcotic Farm, might have heard the sweet sounds of free-flowing jazz floating over the freshly-cut hay and newly-harvested crops that adorned the site. That’s because the researchers behind America’s first rehab were aiming to learn more about Opioid addiction — and jazz musicians happened to be some of the first individuals receiving formal addiction treatment.

People like Sonny Rollins, Howard McGhee, and Chet Baker (the rock and roll stars of the early 20th century) spent time at the US Narcotic Farm in an effort to get a handle on their addictions and learn how they could best fit into the world around them.

The Narcotic Farm certainly had some unconventional (by today’s standards) approaches; patients were encouraged to work hard and, in some cases, play music for as long as 6 hours a day — the thinking, apparently, was that idle hands do the devil’s work.

What’s more, patients were — unbelievably — paid in Morphine in exchange for their participation in experiments about addiction.

The takeaway from this chapter of addiction treatment history may be that creating art and keeping busy can be helpful ways to re-orient one’s life and spend one’s time; rewarding patients with Morphine may no longer be a key treatment modality, but many of those in recovery may still benefit from using their well-sharpened creativity (and, potentially, some well-deserved rewards) to manage the pangs of withdrawal and meet the challenges of forming a new and sober life.

Synanon And “Tough Love” Therapy

The 1950s saw a new era of addiction treatment: Synanon, a group that’s now been deemed a cult, advocated for several novel approaches to addiction treatment. Their methodology was innovative, to say the least; it was also abusive and marked a dark chapter in the history of rehab.

According to Los Angeles magazine, within the treatment strategy of Synanon, a key component of recovery “became known as Games or simply the Game, where members would sit in a circle and call people out on their secrets, their dishonesties, their hypocrisies.”

In other words, group members would attempt to shame their compatriots; this could be known as the “tough love” approach. This practice was evidence of Synanon’s toxicity; later, members would be pressured into making incredibly personal — and sometimes, violent — choices at the behest of the top brass.

In a way, Synanon marked the end of a particularly dysfunctional period of addiction treatment; the next era covered, that of the 1990s, paved the way for current treatment standards.

The 1990s: A New Kind Of Recovery

According to a piece published in the Addiction journal in 2007, “recovery advocates who helped birth modern addiction treatment in America expressed concern in the 1990s that something had been lost through the professionalization and commercialization of addiction treatment.”

Ultimately, the realization that addiction science should benefit the treatment and the life trajectory of an individual struggling with substance use disorders and/or mental health conditions — and not necessarily a larger, pharmacological-treatment complex — caught on.

With science, empathy, and open-mindedness at the wheel, many new ideas (the principles behind which may not be so new at all) have emerged on the scene. That brings us from the history of rehab to modern day — and the treatment options available to anyone working to manage substance use disorders and/or mental health conditions in the fast-paced time we live in.

Luxury Rehab And The Future Of Rehab

The medicines and therapies available to the individual seeking treatment for drug or alcohol addiction or for mental health concerns encapsulate the very best of the approaches refined during earlier chapters of history.

Patients may now experience the utmost of what practitioners like Dr. Rush had to offer (without the questionable directives). Exposure to the elements, like cold air and water, along with invigorating physical challenges, can form the basis of adventure therapy.

Furthermore, art and music therapy — like the kind practiced at the Narcotic Farm — have come further than ever; patients can now harness their creativity as a way to manage mood and bring meaning that safely surpasses any sense of satisfaction that drug or alcohol use might have brought.

Finally, group therapy like the kind practiced at Synanon (with the element of peer support and without the element of harassment) can go a long way toward giving valuable psychosocial support to anyone who needs a friend or a listening ear during recovery.

The “new” recovery of the 1990s — a mission based around the individuality and goals of each person going through treatment — has reached higher heights than ever before in the present format of luxury rehabs that tailor their every modality to patient comfort; many centers offer round-the-clock care, compassionate attitudes, and personalized amenities.

You never know which method of treatment, or which treatment center, will be best for you until you try. If you happen to be struggling with a substance use disorder and/or mental health concern, reach out now; contact a treatment provider who can answer your questions and give you a road map of potential treatment options, for free.

The treatment modalities of the future are known best by those who seek help now; by reaching out, you could be part of a new and cutting edge in addition science — the treatment options that benefit you today could soon form the foundation of the modalities that help the patients of tomorrow.

The post The Evolution And History Of Rehab appeared first on Addiction Center.

Sunday, October 10 was World Mental Health Day. The day was observed by a world in the midst of a mental health crisis, but new research shows there’s hope for the millions suffering around the globe.

The depth of the current crisis has pushed hope to its breaking point: a new report from UNICEF found that no less than 13% of young people between 10 and 19 have been diagnosed with a mental health condition.

It’s no doubt that COVID-19 has had a major impact on mental health, but evidence shows trends began well before the pandemic according to Mental Health America, a nonprofit devoted to wellness, “In 2017-2018, 19% of adults experienced a mental illness, an increase of 1.5 million people over last year’s dataset.” In 2020, 40% of adults reported struggling with addiction or mental health.

A survey by the American Psychological Association revealed some of the things causing Americans stress: uncertainty about the safety of oneself and one’s family, difficulty paying bills, and frustration about the state of the world or one’s personal life topped the list.

There’s a very real harm done by such a prevalent degree of mental illness; suicide has been the second leading cause of death among Americans between 10 and 34. A recent op-ed in Stat News declared that the American Medical Association should, “take decisive action and declare a national mental health emergency.”

What’s more, the US Department of Health reports that mental health conditions are liable to give rise to addiction, while substance abuse can cause symptoms of a mental health disorder; over a quarter of adults with significant mental illness also struggle with addiction. If suicide can be considered among the most extreme and destructive ends of mental illness, then suicide’s relationship with addiction can’t be ignored; almost 25% of American suicide victims are under the influence upon their death.

Anyone who struggles with addiction, mental health, or both shouldn’t wait until things get worse to take action. There’s good news: research shows that some simple changes, many of which can be made without any outside help, can dramatically improve one’s patterns of feeling and thinking. On top of that, outside help is also available. Therapies and treatment modalities that have been proven to work can be powerful tools in anyone’s toolbox.

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New Research: Simple Changes Improve Mental Health

Some might imagine a future solution for mental health to arrive in the form of a new pill, innovative treatment method, or inner personal realization. It certainly might.

However, new research has shown that small, specific changes around lifestyle choices can drastically alter mental health in ways that might be surprising — especially to one who might see such changes as being elementary.

For example, one study published this year on nutrition found that while, “Poor mental well-being is a major issue for young,” that “The contribution of nutrition is underexplored.” Researchers looked into the measurable impact on eating well, particularly the consumption of more fruits and vegetables, on mental health. Conclusions include that, “Higher combined fruit and vegetable consumption was significantly associated with higher well-being” and that “public health strategies to optimise the mental well-being of children should include promotion of good nutrition.” Adult mental health may similarly benefit from such basic dietary measures; however, the CDC reported in 2017 that barely 1 in 10 adults gets enough fruit and vegetables in their diet.

Eating more healthfully would likely help treat addiction as well; one 2009 article published in Drugs and Alcohol Today found that, “there is a close, exacerbating relationship between problematic substance use and poor nutrition.”

Another simple change that could help with mental health is spending more time in nature: Science Daily reported last Thursday about new research which found that, “outdoor, nature-based activities…lasting for 20 to 90 minutes, sustained for over the course of 8 to 12 weeks, have the most positive outcomes for improving mood and reducing anxiety.” Gardening and exercising were 2 such activities, and each was correlated with mental health gains.

A study of 12,000 US adults, conducted within the last 5 years, found that most spent little time outside and that many viewed the outdoors as being dangerous.

Eating more fruits and vegetables and spending more time outdoors may be 2 very effective means of improving one’s health that too many Americans may be simply unable or willing to attempt. Those that do implement these changes may begin to reap the rewards for their mental health; however, outside assistance may be necessary.

Help Available For Mental Health, Addiction

There’s no shortage of external aid for the individual struggling with mental disorders and/or addiction. A trained and licensed professional can help by providing therapy; 2 forms that may be encountered in rehab, mindfulness therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, have been proven to have long-lasting and positive impacts on the mood and the mind.

Pharmacological solutions, such as Antidepressants, may also be prescribed in rehab after a diagnostic assessment; symptoms may recur after use of them is stopped, however they may be most effective as a short-term solution.

Furthermore, rehab may allow one to reset self-defeating cycles that stop one from implementing the kinds of changes described in the above section, like eating right and spending time outside, by taking one away from the routine of day-to-day life and providing altitude and perspective with which to examine previously automatic behavioral patterns.

Whatever it is that excites you most about rehab, there’s no reason to delay seeking the help you need. Contact a treatment provider today to learn more, and take a step toward defeating an addiction, managing a mental health condition, and making a better life before it’s too late.

The post A Crisis On World Mental Health Day appeared first on Addiction Center.

Researchers have made groundbreaking discoveries about the ways in which nature, through treatment modalities like equine therapy and adventure therapy, can help people become healthier and happier.

Those struggling with substance use disorders and other mental health conditions must often face incredibly unpleasant emotions. Paranoia, craving, distrust, low self-esteem, anger, and sadness can come to dominate one’s life. Relationships can fall apart because of these emotions. It can start to seem like there’s no way out.

But, fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that way. In addition to the powerful modalities of talk therapy and pharmaceutical medication, the individual in recovery has another key tool in their toolbox: the force of nature itself, the healing power of which can be observed in animal-assisted therapy and adventure therapy.

Studies have shown that, under the right circumstances, exposure to nature can lower stress and mitigate brooding. It can jumpstart positive moods and help someone who’s already happy stay that way for longer than they otherwise would. It can even boost brainpower and improve confidence, potentially taking one a long way toward becoming the best version of oneself.

Unfortunately, too many people are either unaware of the power of nature or either unwilling or unable to take advantage of this crucial treatment modality. What’s more, the very negative emotions that exposure to the natural world could help address might also stop someone from leaving the safety of their home in the first place — especially for something as unpredictable-sounding as adventure therapy.

If that kind of mood seems familiar, the information below may be of value. There’s hard science behind the advantages of taking time to interact with animals and with the great outdoors. Read on to find out exactly what they are and how therapy can feel like an adventure.

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Contact With Animals Can Regulate Mood

One study has documented the effects of a form of therapy many likely haven’t tried. It found that, “reductions in psychological distress and enhancements in psychological well being were significant immediately following treatment and were stable at 6-month follow-up.” In other words, the subjects studied didn’t just get better right away, they also stayed that way for many months afterward.

The powerful form of treatment studied was none other than equine therapy, which involves interacting with a horse in order to gain therapeutic benefits.

A group of people with substance use disorders were studied; as part of their treatment, they spent time bonding with a horse over several sessions. The results of the study speak for themselves; researchers found that, “results demonstrated a significant increase in listening, trusting, supporting, encouraging, respecting and accepting, and negotiating differences. The results also demonstrated a significant reduction in depressive and anxiety symptoms.”

So not only can equine therapy relieve the symptoms of anxiety and depression, it can also help one feel safer and become a better communicator.

It’s not hard to imagine why these effects might occur. Spending time with a horse invites one to explore the world from another set of eyes — non-human eyes — which might be a welcome break from the stressors of one’s own personal life and could help with building theory of mind and empathy. The thrill of being on a horse itself could be therapeutic; the accompanying release of endorphins may help to improve mood and treat pain.

Furthermore, gaining the trust of a large and powerful animal could help one feel safe; participating in hands-on activities like grooming or riding a horse companion could help an individual get out of their head and into their body, which might help those struggling with trauma and seeking to ground themselves. Gaining a sense of safety with a horse could also prepare one well for adventure therapy, which is explained more thoroughly below.

Adventure Therapy Can Reset The Brain

Another treatment modality, adventure therapy, doesn’t only sound thrilling but it could reset the brain in a crucial way and help lead to a happier and substance-free life.

Adventure therapy often involves navigating a challenging and rewarding outdoor environment; it might include activities like hiking, camping, river rafting, and the like. It might be particularly effective for adolescents; one study found that this form of treatment “can appeal to youth-at-risk who are often less responsive to traditional psychotherapeutic interventions.”

That’s not to say that adventure therapy doesn’t also work for adults; another study, which examined men and women struggling with an alcohol use disorder, found that subjects’ frequency of negative thoughts and cravings for alcohol were lesser when compared to a control group; in a sense, their brains had reset from the effects of addiction. The people who participated in adventure therapy were also far less likely to relapse, which shows this reset has staying power.

There are many dangers to exploring the wilderness on one’s own. However, many treatment centers have staff members trained in adventure therapy who can help patients explore new and invigorating terrain. Some rehabs, especially luxury rehabs, offer a variety of treatment programs that involve nature and interaction with animals. Luxury rehabs are typically in beautiful natural settings, such as in the mountains or near the ocean. If you’re curious about how spending time outdoors can help you recover, reach out to a treatment provider to get more information. You’re part of the natural world, after all — celebrating that fact in a way that makes you more joyous and more healthy could be exactly what you need.

The post Nature’s Treatment For Addiction appeared first on Addiction Center.

On January 29th, 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the outbreak of a mysterious virus spreading in Wuhan, China. At that time, Coronavirus-related pneumonia had officially infected 59 people. To avoid further spreading, experts suggested travel precautions. Four days after the announcement, the United States restricted global air travel and declared COVID-19 a National Emergency. 

As of today, more than 147,211,802 people worldwide have contracted the virus. However, the number of new outbreaks is winding down thanks to efficient safety practices like social distancing and the role out of multiple vaccines. In response to the lowered rates of new infections, the U.S. and much of the world are loosening their travel restrictions. 

Can I Travel For Rehab?

It is well-documented now that rates of substance abuse have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 40% of American adults said they were struggling with mental health or substance use, with 13% starting or increasing their substance use during the pandemic. 

These increasing rates have caused many people to seek out necessary treatment at inpatient rehabilitation facilities. Rehabs are essential and have been operating during COVID with increased sanitation practices and social distancing, but that does not remove the uncertainty that some patients feel during this time.

Traveling to rehab is often imperative based on the location of the patient. Finding a rehab that meets ones specific needs is crucial and sometimes that rehab will not always be within driving distance. Others may want to explore luxury rehabs in beautiful destinations, while others may want the opportunity to step away from the area that they used to use at and solely focus on their recovery. Thankfully, traveling can be done safely under CDC guidelines.

Current COVID Regulations For Domestic Travelers

Current COVID regulations for travel vary by state. However, the CDC released new guidance on April 2, 2021.

Fully Vaccinated Domestic Travelers

The new guidelines issued by the CDC state that fully vaccinated travelers with an FDA approved vaccine:

• Do not need to self-quarantine.
• Do not need to test negative before a trip unless required by their destination.
• Should wear a mask over their nose and mouth.
• Are recommended to stay 6 feet from others and avoid crowds.
• Are urged to wash their hands often or use hand sanitizer.
• Must self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms after travel. 
• If developing COVID related symptoms, must isolate and get tested.
• Should follow all state and local recommendations or requirements.

It is important to note that you do not need to get tested or self-quarantine if you have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 3 months. However, they should still follow all other travel recommendations.

To clarify, fully vaccinated travelers, in general, are people who are 2 weeks into their second dose of an FDA-approved vaccine. Examples of the 2-dose series include vaccines like Pfizer or Moderna. People who do not meet the above requirement are not fully vaccinated. 

Unvaccinated Domestic Travelers

For those who are not vaccinated, different regulations apply when traveling. To protect yourself and others, the CDC recommends:

• To take a viral test 1-3 days before traveling.
• Wearing a mask over your nose and mouth.
• Avoiding crowds. 
• Staying 6 feet which is about 2 arm lengths from anyone who is not traveling with you.
• Washing your hands as much as possible or using hand sanitizer.
• To take a viral test 3-5 days after travel. 
• Once home, self-quarantine for a full 7 days after a trip (even if test results are negative).

For those who choose not to get tested, please stay home. The CDC recommends unvaccinated travelers self-quarantine for 10 days after a trip. They also suggest avoiding people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days.

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Current COVID Regulations For International Travelers

Due to the spread of new or concerning variants when traveling internationally, people have a different set of guidelines to follow. Even if a person is fully vaccinated when visiting a foreign country, the individual must pay close attention to the COVID-19 situation before leaving.

Fully Vaccinated International Travelers

For those who must travel during the pandemic, below are a few guidelines the CDC recommends for international travelers. Once an individual is fully vaccinated, if they choose to travel, the CDC recommends the following:

• Before traveling, research requirements related to travel, testing, or quarantine.
• Understand and follow all airline and destination standards that may differ from the U.S.’s.
• Check the current COVID-19 situation in your destination.
• Wear a mask over your nose and mouth.
• Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet apart from anyone not traveling with you.
• Wash your hands often.
• Carry and use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or more.
• When arriving back in the U.S., all air passengers must have a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 3 days old.
• Once in the U.S., individuals should get tested with a viral test 3 to 5 days after arrival .
• Self-monitor for symptoms.
• If travelers feel any symptoms, they should isolate and get tested.

As a reminder, travelers who do not follow their destination’s requirements may be denied entry to their travel destination. These individuals will be required to return to the U.S. 

Unvaccinated International Travelers

People not fully vaccinated are recommended not to travel at this time to reduce their exposure to the virus. However, if a person needs to travel, the CDC does have guidelines she or he may follow like: 

• Before travel, get a viral test 1-3 days before flying out.
• Understand and follow all airline and destination requirements.
• Know that travel, testing, or quarantine guidelines may vary from the U.S. 
• Please recognize that you may be denied entry to any foreign destination due to their COVID-related guidelines.
• Travelers who do not follow the foreign country’s international travel requirements may be required to return to the U.S.
• Before traveling, understand how the destination is handling the pandemic.
• Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when in public.
• Avoid crowds. 
• Stay at a minimum of six feet from those who are not part of your travel party.
• Wash your hands often. 
• Carry and use sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

It is essential for anyone visiting a new destination to stay updated with the CDC’s guidelines. As time passes, more people will be vaccinated, and the rates of COVID-19 will change. In response, the CDC will update their recommendations to reflect the available scientific evidence and conditions. In the meantime, our team recommends everyone continue practicing social distancing and stay aware. 

Traveling During COVID For Rehab

Traveling during the pandemic is possible. If you or a loved one are interested in traveling for rehab, reach out for help. Contact a treatment provider who can help answer your rehab-related questions. Do not wait another day.

The post Current COVID Regulations For Travel appeared first on Addiction Center.

Luxury rehabs are inpatient centers dedicated to treating people battling addiction in a resort-like setting. They provide their patients’ treatment for drugs, alcohol, and other addictions. Much like other rehabs, they offer traditional therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). What makes the lux centers unique are their high-end amenities. 

Some amazing amenities in luxury rehabs include:

• Juice bars
• Libraries 
• Personal chef’s kitchen 
• Marble baths 
• Private and decadent rooms
• State-of-the-art gyms
• Resort-style pools 
• Spas 
• Tennis courts 
• Massages
• Personal trainers
• 5G internet connectivity

Some resorts even offer individually designed nutritional meals. If you or a loved one are considering treatment at a luxury rehab, then look no further. Below are the top 10 locations for luxury rehab.

Top 10 Locations For Luxury Rehab

The U.S. 

First, let’s start in the West. The United States has hundreds of renowned luxury rehabs all over the country. The nation’s diverse cultures and geography make it an excellent place for a wellness escape. There are plenty of amazing luxury rehabs located in states like Hawaii, New York, and Florida. The U.S. also has some of the most exclusive addiction treatment centers in the world. There are several facilities in places like Malibu and Beverly Hills, California, that only allow a maximum of 12 guests at a time. 

Mexico 

South of the U.S. border rests the proud nation of Mexico. The country is best known for its fantastic food and festivals. Still, many do not know that Mexico has some of the finest luxury centers in the West. Countless lavish addiction treatment facilities currently operate in places like Tulum, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta. Many of the posh centers have incomparable beachside views with some of the best cuisines in the country.  

South Africa

Third on our list is South Africa, with the second-largest economy in the continent. It is home to the world’s largest known diamond and oldest fossils ever discovered. The country has some of the most glorious coastlines on both the Atlantic and Indian oceans. Annually it draws millions of tourists eager to experience the splendor of its wild land. South Africa’s serene and ancient beauty makes it an excellent place for people to change their lives and do things differently. If you are searching for a life-changing haven, South Africa has some of the best luxury rehab centers in the world. 

Nepal

For those searching for recovery from addiction, another excellent option in Nepal. Located between India and China, Nepal is best known for its serene mountain peaks. The small country is home to 8 of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest. Deep within its capital are also some of the most renowned addiction treatment centers in the world. In Nepal’s facilities, patients have the luxury of detoxing, meditating, and practicing mindfulness among like-minded people. The luxurious treatments in the Buddhist country focus on empowering its patients through inner peace, control, and happiness. Many of the centers even have therapies taught by the country’s monks.

The U.K. 

Suppose a luxury yet monastery-style addiction treatment does not suit what you’re looking for. In that case, the United Kingdom has some excellent options. The U.K. has several contemporary addiction treatment centers. The posh facilities have unique features like amethyst crystal steam rooms, vitality pools, and even Zen color therapy rooms. For people searching for something elegant but outside the city, the U.K. has many wellness centers that treat addiction in the serene countryside. 

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India

Sixth on the list is none other than iconic India. The vibrant country is brimming with color, culture, and sights. For people searching for an escape from their mundane and toxic lifestyle, inpatient treatment in India is a great choice. The country has had a bewildering growth of peaceful recovery retreats and luxury centers. Like in Nepal, meditation and yoga are vital instruments used to support their patients’ recovery. Still, among all the peace and serenity, patients are surrounded by gardens of blooming jasmine blossoms and all the amenities they would expect in a luxury rehab. 

Switzerland

Switzerland is a country many aspire to move to. It has one of the highest ratings for quality of life, according to USA Today. It is the 11th wealthiest country in the world and the largest exporter of gold. Naturally, Switzerland offers patients some of the most luxurious and innovative centers worldwide. Switzerland has many exclusive high-private institutions that guarantee premium care. The addiction treatment centers have customized medicine within a hotel-style rehab offering comprehensive treatment for addiction, eating disorders, and mental illness. 

Greece

Greece is renowned for its beautiful blue coastline and colors. The country’s beauty provides its guests some of the best rehab options in the world. The Mediterranean country’s spectacular sights and natural traits have encouraged luxury rehab clinics to establish themselves among its prettiest cities and lands. These addiction treatment facilities are best known for servicing high-end clients like executives, celebrities, and sports stars battling addiction. Greece is the place if you or a loved one are searching for a comfortable and chic experience. 

Thailand

For those in search of beaches and mountain settings, Thailand may be an excellent option. Not only does the country provide cutting-edge care, they do so surrounded by pure luxury. Thailand has beautiful addiction treatment centers secluded among its rolling mountains. Patients who opt-in to one of these modern and holistic treatment programs are sure to receive the support they need for a lasting recovery.

Spain 

Last but not least is Spain. The Spanish country has strong roots in addiction recovery and indulgence. For ages, the citizens of Spain have had personal experiences battling substance dependency. The familiarity has made Spain one of the best and most comprehensive locations for truly individualized luxury treatments. Individuals interested in recovery can find many of Spain’s rehab centers within the city and privately owned acres overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. 

Find A Luxury Rehab Center Today

If you are searching for a life-changing experience that will provide the comfort and opulence you need, look no further than luxury rehabs. If you or a loved one are searching for a luxury rehab center, contact a treatment provider. Talk about all treatment options by contacting a treatment provider today.

The post Top 10 Locations For Luxury Rehab appeared first on Addiction Center.

In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the onset of a global pandemic. COVID-19 spread throughout the globe, uprooting the daily lives of millions. As the world hunkered down to quarantine, millions of Americans canceled activities and prepared. Some turned to alcohol to cope with the sudden change. 

Right after the announcement of the global pandemic, the sales of alcoholic beverages spiked. In the United States, the overall alcohol market grew by 55%, and online alcohol sales skyrocketed to a startling 243%. Despite bar, club, and restaurant closure, liquor revenue rose from $29 billion in 2019 to $31.2 billion in 2020. 

COVID-19 Alcohol And Addiction 

The effects of COVID-19 have trickled across countless households. Families are experiencing high levels of stress while juggling their children’s school activities, work-from-home responsibilities, and housework. Others are struggling financially, with social isolation and general uncertainties. The high levels of stress have triggered a spike in alcohol demand and addiction rates in the U.S. Stress is associated with an increased risk for alcohol use, alcohol-related problems, and alcohol use disorders (AUD). Some of the most common health manifestations due to COVID-19 include anxiety, poor sleep, and hypochondriac beliefs.

Alcohol abuse hit an all-time-high in 2020. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 13% of Americans used alcohol or drugs to deal with COVID-19 related stressors. Those under lockdown or quarantine increased their heavy alcohol use from 21.0% (in March) to 40.7% (in September). The surge in alcohol use has the scientific and health community highly concerned.

In the U.S., more than 95,000 people die from dangerous alcohol use every year. Alcohol abuse shortens the life of an individual an average of 29 years. Every year a total of 2.8 million years of potential life is lost to alcohol.

Previous Devastations And Alcohol Misuse

With increased alcohol use, sales, and ER visits related to alcohol use, there is no question that COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on the lives of Americans and people around the world. The stress that has been caused by the pandemic is not isolated to this single experience. Other devastating occurrences such as terrorist attacks and recessions cause similar levels of stress, mental health disturbances, and potentially increased alcohol abuse.

A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology looked into the Oklahoma City bombing, 9/11, and terrorist events in Israel and England and discovered that there was increased alcohol use up to 2 years after these events. An estimated 7.3% of people exposed to one of these events presented with alcohol misuse. The study also found that those who were exposed to terrorist attacks had higher rates of binge drinking, which increased with how involved they were with the event, such as if they knew someone who lost their life in the attack. Alcohol abuse was even more common in those with PTSD symptoms.

Researchers from the Frontiers study examined drinking patterns and the Great Recession of 2008 and found that there was decreased alcohol consumption during this time. This was likely due to reduced wages, higher debts, and loss of purchasing power. However, during this time the rate of binge drinking increased in certain populations like the unemployed, young people, and men. Economic adversity has been found to be associated with increased rates of alcohol misuse.

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Finding Treatment For Alcohol Addiction

Drinking is a popular pastime in the U.S., and in 2020, while people quarantined, it became even more common. However, reaching for an alcoholic beverage every time a person is bored/stressed is problematic. Habitual alcohol use can lead to an alcohol use disorder (AUD). More than 15 million people are battling AUD in the U.S. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, young men are at an increased risk of developing an AUD. If the individuals recently lost their primary jobs due to COVID-19, the risk is even higher.  

Developing an AUD can happen to anyone. Alcohol use disorders are the most common addictions in America. Unfortunately, SARS-CoV-2 contributed to the spike in rates among Americans, as seen in alcohol sales for 2020. Fortunately, there are several addiction treatment centers ready to help anyone battling a substance use disorder. Thousands of people are prioritizing their health and seeking treatment. Contact a treatment provider and discover the many options you or a loved one have. Begin to take back control of your life by contacting a treatment provider today.   

The post Alcohol Sales Spike In 2020 Due To COVID-19 appeared first on Addiction Center.

Sober living homes provide safety and stable shelter for individuals seeking a safe place post-rehab. Furthermore, it provides accountability, community, and connection. After inpatient rehab, which is a requirement for sober living homes, patients can apply skills gained in rehab. Alternatively, individuals who have relapsed post-rehab could benefit from attending one of these communities.

Fortunately, there are factors someone can take into account before committing to a specific sober living home. Benefits range from a feeling of independence to one of connection. Residents can still gain access to 12-Step groups and are able to work and contribute to society. Because of the value sober living homes offer, it is imperative to know how to select the one that is ideal.

What To Consider

Individuals seeking sober living homes have several options to consider based on their needs. They should consider what they are hoping to gain when living in a sober living home. Do they prefer gender-specific care? For mothers who are considering accommodations for their child, childcare and appropriate security may be helpful in making a decision. It’s important to do personal research and consider personal needs, such as amenities available in the home (furniture, washer, and dryer), proximity (schools in the area, hospitals, grocery stores, distance to gyms, relatives, churches), and location.

Location, Location, Location

Considerations like location preferences should be taken into account. Doing research to learn about and narrow down options is an empowering step to take. Furthermore, physically visiting the sober living home is another smart step to take when making this type of decision. Having an idea of the neighborhood you would prefer can additionally help make a decision. Like rehab, individuals can travel for sober living homes, with similar benefits, such as:

• Decreasing stressors that activate addiction.

• Taking the experience more seriously because of distance.

• A fresh new surrounding.

• Access to variety.

Avoiding Shady Sober Living Homes

Just like there are shady business practices, fraudulent sober living homes do exist. News headlining criminal exploitation of those needing substance abuse care, and women who needed safe housing reveal the unfortunate pinpoint of the harsh reality of fraudulent sober living homes. Other fraudulent homes have sketchy practices, or very little ground rules for inhabitants. In some cases, patients can sell drugs to other patients who are trying to stay sober. Researching a variety of homes and learning about the accreditations/certifications is a great start to learning about sober living homes of interest. It may be helpful to ask yourself questions such as:

• How long has this facility been in operation?

• What accreditations does the facility have?

• What standards of living does the sober living house practice?

• Are drugs or alcohol allowed in the home? (No)

• Do they conduct regular or monthly interviews? (This holds residents accountable for sobriety.)

Doing more research can provide needed answers to questions, or can inspire additional questions needing to be asked.

Sober Living Home Green Lights

Sober living home green lights provide patients with clean homes, a set of guidelines that limit conflict or aggressive interactions, the ability to work, prohibit the use of drugs, allow visitors on site, encourage group meetings, are not free of charge, are in good condition, and have qualified and experienced staff. For example, soberhousing.net cites the following qualifications, some of which include:

• • A neat appearance.

  • The home is safe (should be in accordance with guidelines).

  • House should be able to accommodate all residents (available room, adequate space in kitchens).

  • Rooms should have locks.

  • Residents must know how much they have to pay.

  • Residents have to know about testing and interviewing to ensure abstinence.

  • Rights to personal items.

  • Codes of conduct that encourage safety.

  • Any conflict that occur must be quickly resolved.

  • Meeting attendance of residents and their families are encouraged.

  • No romantic or sexual interests between house members.

This list is not exhaustive. Some sober living homes can offer unique services and accommodations. Doing thorough research online, calling specific sober living homes and asking questions, and visiting the home in consideration are all steps one can take to be sure they’re making the best decision. It may also be beneficial to write down a list of wants and needs to keep on hand while asking questions. To learn more about rehab and to discover what these certain homes may offer, contact a treatment provider and get on track.

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The post Choosing A Sober Living Home appeared first on Addiction Center.

Resilience. The set of characteristics one possesses to overcome difficult situations. A positive response versus a maladaptive one when faced with adversity. Resilience is something we are born with and develop over time as we interact with the world around us. Resiliency is something that can also be broken down.

How resilient someone is depends on multiple factors including innate genetic qualities, coping styles, attitude, personality traits, positive relationships, supportive environments, healthy modeling, and the cultivation of capacities as we grow from infancy towards adulthood. In order for our brains to develop healthy and adaptive capabilities, we need to expose ourselves to a certain amount of stimuli which molds how we respond to life events. If supportive external components are absent, or significant trauma or adversity is profound, the brain’s health is compromised. The risk of lessened resilience occurs, while the risk of psychological and physical illness increases. However, we do need to face circumstances, even difficult ones, in order to give ourselves an opportunity to learn from them and strengthen ourselves.

Resiliency Of The Body And Mind

Our brains work off of a feedback mechanism, both internally with our organs and externally with the outside world. Too much imbalance can result in the brain and body being unable to fight or defend itself against illness. One of the ways we gain physical immunity (resilience to disease), for example, is that we develop antibodies via our immune system in order to fight off disease. Through exposure with the world, we develop our immune system little by little. Another example is through vaccination, which introduces a small amount of a substance, often an illness producing particle itself, triggering our bodies to build immunity to help defend against a more significant blow later on. Either way, this system of defense is a result of us being exposed to something. This allows our body to recognize it and react to it in order to properly defend against a similar, larger attack. Our physical body is constantly learning.

Compare this to psychological immunity, or mental resilience of our mind. It works similarly. In order for our minds to be able to overcome adversity, we need to be “inoculated” with life’s experiences themselves, both good and bad. We deal with many stressors throughout our lifespan, many which our brains will process and develop resistance against. These processes warn us, allow us to cope, or nurture us to help navigate more adaptively when a similar situation occurs at a later time. We need that recognition and feedback mechanism intact in order to mount a healthy psychological response. Adolescence for example, a critical time of anatomic and physiologic brain growth, should occur within an environment which grooms healthy brain development. Unfortunately, that is also a time when one first starts experimenting with drugs or alcohol.  If we continue to use, our healthy progression is that much more impeded.

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How Drugs And Alcohol Break Resiliency

When we use drugs or alcohol to defend ourselves against difficult experiences of the mind, we have broken that recognition and feedback mechanism. We are essentially living in a bubble as we stop the inoculation process. We stop the brain’s ability to identify the psychological threat, analyze and process it, digest it, absorb or extract from that experience what is beneficial, while spitting out or eliminating the waste that is not. We fail to give ourselves an opportunity to develop immunity and cope with that circumstance. Unfortunately, when a pattern of drug or alcohol use spirals into addiction, there is a consistent cycling of absence from both healthy and unhealthy experiences. The brain is no longer benefitting from any positive experiences which could cultivate our mind and make us strong, or negative experiences which could produce an adaptive response to help us cope during difficult experiences which are later thrown at us. Addiction deprives the mind and body of being inoculated, or vaccinated, with life. As drugs or alcohol consume the body from the inside out, we further weaken our mind and body. This is most evident when we stop using these substances. When we come out of this bubble, we have developed no mental immunity. The negative experiences and trauma that went unresolved and unprocessed, now creep up on us making us sick. The realities which we have not become accustomed to, seem overwhelming and terrifying. Normal processes seem strange, and difficult processes seem unbearable. This often triggers us to use again.

Breaking The Cycle

There is hope within the cycle of drug and alcohol abuse. Gaining sobriety helps heal this broken resiliency. In spite of the difficulties we face when first stopping drug and alcohol use, the healing process starts right away. It is not an easy process, but our brains are remarkable in that they can actually heal. Our minds can rebuild resiliency. Seeking treatment and getting help is often the first step in this process. Medically supervised detoxification often is needed to help safely come off drugs and alcohol and help prepare the body and brain to achieve a level of stability that allows things to start making sense for us. Therapy is often needed to help us process those unresolved experiences and bring clarity to our emotions and behaviors. As time goes on, we learn to cope with our lives again, and have the ability to once again become resilient.

For more information about addiction and finding treatment, contact a treatment provider today.

The post Inside The “Bubble” Of Addiction And Broken Resiliency appeared first on Addiction Center.