Dangers of Using Xanax and Coke

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Xanax and Coke Dangers | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Xanax and cocaine (coke) are two drugs that are commonly abused, and they may be even more dangerous when used in conjunction. Despite the dangers, the practice of mixing “downers,” such as Xanax, with “uppers,” such as coke, is relatively common among those with substance use disorders. 

The purpose of this article is to detail the health risks associated with using Xanax and coke to counteract the adverse side effects of each other.

What Is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a potent, highly addictive stimulant that is available in both powdered or crack rock varieties. It is often combined with less expensive and easily accessible but non-psychoactive ingredients, such as flour and talcum powder, in order to maximize profits. It may also be combined with other unpredictable and potentially lethal drugs, such as opioids (e.g., fentanyl) or amphetamines, which compound its potential for addiction and significantly raises the risk of overdose.

Side Effects of Cocaine Use

Cocaine use results in abnormally elevated dopamine levels and a brief but intense high. The feeling of euphoria and energy this surge of dopamine induces alters the brain’s reward center and is often found to be highly desirable to those who repeatedly use cocaine. This effect, however, can permanently change brain chemistry and lead to the development of tolerance, dependence, and addiction.

Side effects of cocaine use may include the following:

  • Increased body temperature
  • Drug cravings
  • Insomnia
  • Agitation
  • Paranoia
  • Psychosis
  • Lowered inhibitions
  • Constricted blood vessels
  • Hypersensitivity to light and sound
  • Excessive energy or mania

What Is Xanax?

Xanax (alprazolam) is a fast-acting benzodiazepine (benzo). It is commonly used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and sometimes seizures. This drug is a highly addictive sedative and central nervous system (CNS) depressant, however, and is associated with several adverse physical and psychological effects. 

For this reason, Xanax is intended for short-term use only and should be used for a maximum of six weeks in most cases. Xanax is a popular product of drug diversion and considered a premium substance of abuse for people who suffer from severe anxiety or are attempting to self-medicate in some way.

Side Effects of Xanax Use

Xanax and Coke Dangers | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Although Xanax is initially effective at relieving anxiety and other issues, excessive or extended Xanax use manipulates brain chemistry. Xanax artificially boosts the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, a brain neurochemical that decreases the activity of nerves that lead to emotionally charged conditions.

Side effects of Xanax use may also include the following:

  • Dry mouth
  • Stomach pains
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Drowsiness
  • Headaches
  • Sleep problems
  • Dizziness
  • Impaired memory
  • Impaired coordination
  • Blurry vision
  • Slurred speech
  • Increased sweating
  • Impaired concentration
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Suicidal ideations

Benzos can also lower inhibitions, not unlike alcohol, and this effect can lead to reckless driving or unsafe sexual activities.

The Cumulative Side Effects of Combining Xanax and Coke

Combining a powerful stimulant with a sedative is not wise unless it is used as directed by a physician. While a doctor may occasionally prescribe a stimulant, such as Adderall, for ADHD alongside Xanax, cocaine is most often found as an illegal substance that is not regulated. In addition to perpetuating a greater propensity for polysubstance abuse, mixing Xanax and coke can also induce compounded effects, accelerating and intensifying dangerous complications.

Once chemistry in the brain has been altered as a result of frequent or long-term abuse, serious social, medical, and professional consequences are likely to follow. Chronic users may find themselves increasing the use of one or both drugs, and, eventually, it will become too late to return to a healthy level of functioning.

Moreover, healthy brain function is required to achieve a balance between the neurotransmitters in the CNS. Unavoidably, long-term Xanax and coke use will upset this balance, as well as interrupt the entire neurochemical system.

The alteration of neurotransmitter levels is just one of the many effects caused by Xanax and coke use. Brain structures may also be harmed as a result. Damage to the prefrontal cortex is particularly devastating because it is responsible for executive functioning, which includes rational thinking and impulse control. 

Persons who experience this problem face a diminished quality of life due to their lack of ability to make informed decisions or behave responsibly. Unfortunately, many former cocaine users will never fully regain their previous level of functioning.

Finally, using a stimulant with a depressant in excessive amount increases the risk of overdose. This form of drug use has a long and notorious history, and, unfortunately, many people have died from it. Abusing these substances together (known as a speedball) can be confusing to the body, and irregular heart rate or overdose are severe risks that users face.

Seeking Help for Drug Abuse and Addiction

The effects of Xanax and coke abuse can be profound and long-lasting. Those who abuse these substances should seek professional treatment as soon as possible. 

Harmony Treatment and Wellness offers comprehensive programs that include evidence-based therapies and services vital to the recovery process. Our medical staff specialize in addiction treatment. We equip clients with all the tools they require to abstain from substance abuse, remain sober, and prevent relapse over the long term.

If you or someone you love is struggling with drug use or an addiction to Xanax or cocaine, please call us today to discuss treatment options and find out how we can facilitate your recovery!

⟹ READ THIS NEXT: Dangers of Mixing Tramadol and Alcohol

What Is Emotional Sobriety?

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Emotional Sobriety | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Emotional sobriety is vital to the recovery process. Being emotionally sober means having the ability to actively confront and cope with all the unhealthy emotions that were neglected during substance abuse. These are the feelings that may serve as triggers for relapse, so managing them is critical to recovery and for sustaining long-lasting sobriety.

The Concept of Emotional Sobriety

Emotional sobriety is an idea that began with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the most famous 12-step support group program for those who struggle with alcoholism. People who participate in AA work through a dozen steps to attain long-lasting abstinence. 

The last step urges that members spread the AA message to others, while also practicing the steps daily and following AA principles in every aspect of one’s own life. This step also refers to emotional sobriety and that those who have completed the program should also assist others in achieving it. The concept of emotional sobriety is not confined to AA, however—it is beneficial for anyone suffering from an addiction to substances.

Beyond Physical Sobriety

Before modern, evidence-based treatments were employed, the founders of AA acknowledged that merely discontinuing the use of a substance and preventing relapse is not sufficient for those with a substance use problem. It is also critical to address all the unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that were suppressed and neglected during substance abuse. Only when these are faced and managed can a person say they have truly attained both physical and emotional sobriety.

Among the most valuable reasons to confront adverse emotions and to learn to manage them is to avoid relapse. Negative thoughts and feelings frequently trigger substance abuse, and if they are not managed, a relapse may be unavoidable. The less apparent but equally important reason to strive for emotional sobriety is that it promotes overall mental well-being and quality of life.

Emotional sobriety is a complex idea and perhaps somewhat difficult to fully explain. In general, it is characterized by the ability to experience, face, and accept all emotions—even the ones that cause pain. 

This idea does not mean having to be excessively optimistic, especially in the face of unrelieved hardship or adversity. Instead, achieving emotional sobriety requires a person to foster a constructive relationship with one’s own emotions and use healthy strategies to deal with those that are negative. It is a complicated and often lengthy and potentially arduous process to achieve emotional sobriety.

On Achieving Emotional Sobriety

The ways in which a person works toward emotional sobriety are a bit different for everyone. Some approaches are more useful for some people than others, and the time it takes to effectively regulate emotions may differ depending on the person and their circumstances.

Currently, comprehensive treatment programs for addiction include several techniques for assisting individuals in learning to manage their feelings and develop emotional sobriety over time. There are also some essential strategies that anyone may use to establish an improved (but never perfect) emotional balance.

Behavioral Therapies

Emotional Sobriety | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Behavioral therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), center on practical strategies that patients learn to use on a daily basis. These techniques help a person become more conscious of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in the present and take actions to change or deal with those that are unhealthy. Such therapies provide people with tools that can be used in everyday situations outside of therapy to face and cope with negative feelings more positively and constructively.

Reappraisal

Research has found that those with healthy emotional coping tools commonly make use of a reappraisal strategy to confront mild or moderately unwanted emotions. They face the feeling rather than avoid it and reframe it to make it positive. For instance, while experiencing anxiety over an upcoming job interview, an individual might identify the anxiety and mitigate it by focusing on the positive outcomes of landing a new job.

Mindfulness Meditation Practices 

Becoming emotionally healthy includes becoming aware of feelings as they are experienced, and not dwelling too much on the past or future—also known as being mindful. It is possible to develop and effectively practice mindfulness through time-tested techniques such as meditation and yoga.

Social Connectedness

Having a solid social network to lean on is another great way to control adverse feelings. Being able to have conversations with a trusted someone is an essential factor in facing and dealing with troublesome emotions. A person does not have to possess numerous social connections, but for the ones they do have, they ought to be meaningful and significant, rather than trivial and shallow.

Getting Help for Addiction

Harmony Treatment and Wellness offers comprehensive, evidence-based addiction treatment programs. We provide the resources and support that clients need to stop abusing substances and enjoy long-lasting wellness and sobriety. 

Through the use of a combination of behavioral therapy, counseling, and group support, we teach patients how to become emotionally sober, avoid relapse, and improve their mental health and overall well-being. Contact us today to discuss treatment options and discover how we can help!

⟹ READ THIS NEXT: Group Therapy Activities for Addiction Treatment

Valtrex and Alcohol: Safe to Mix?

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Valtrex and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Valtrex and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

When taking certain medications, whether they’re prescription or over-the-counter, it’s essential to know the risks, side effects, and potential interactions with other drugs or alcohol. Many medications do have interactions with alcohol or are generally unsafe to combine with drinking.

According to the Mayo Clinic, it’s best to avoid mixing alcohol with antiviral drugs. While they are no specific warnings included in the labels of these products, alcohol can compromise the effectiveness of some medications. It can also increase the risk of side effects, including dizziness, with older adults being the most susceptible.

What Is Valtrex?

Valtrex (valacyclovir) is an oral antiviral prescription drug that is used to treat shingles and the herpes virus, genital herpes, and cold sores. Valtrex is not a cure for herpes, though it does effectively reduce symptoms by impeding its spread and growth. 

NOTE: The herpes virus is much more common than many people realize. According to the World Health Organization, two-thirds (67%) of the world’s population is infected with the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).

Valtrex also helps a person’s immune system in its fight against the infection and reduces the frequency of outbreaks. When someone uses Valtrex, it can promote the healing of cold sores and genital warts and prevent new ones from developing. It can also relieve pain and itching often associated with skin lesions.

People using Valtrex should be warned that it will not prevent herpes from spreading to another individual. It can be transmitted even when a person is asymptomatic.

Valtrex Side Effects

Side effects of Valtrex can include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Dizziness
  • Headache

Less common side effects include the following:

  • Mood swings
  • Agitation
  • Confusion
  • Shakiness
  • Changes in urination
  • Trouble speaking

Rarely, Valtrex can cause a condition that affects the blood cells and kidneys, which can be lethal. This disorder is more likely to occur in people who have a weakened immune system, perhaps as a result of a kidney transplant or HIV.

Valtrex and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Valtrex and Alcohol: Other Factors to Consider

It may be relatively safe to combine Valtrex and alcohol when a person is drinking in moderation. However, you should always consult your health provider before combining Valtrex with alcohol or any other medications or drugs.

There are also other significant factors to consider before combining Valtrex and alcohol. For one, Valtrex can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting, which are relatively common. If you use Valtrex with alcohol, it can make side effects worse. For example, a person may be more likely to experience nausea than he or she would if Valtrex was being used on its own.

As noted, there is a chance for side effects such as dizziness with the use of Valtrex. Alcohol use can also cause dizziness, so consuming it while using Valtrex can cause this side effect to be more intense. For this reason, people who use these two substances should probably avoid certain activities while doing so.

A Word on Shingles

If a person is using Valtrex for the treatment of shingles, it is best to avoid alcohol altogether. Shingles is an infection that is caused by the same virus as chickenpox. Although shingles can occur anywhere on your body, it most often appears as a band of blisters or lesions that wraps around a person’s torso.

Unfortunately, the pain caused by shingles can be excruciating. Regular alcohol can compromise a person’s immune system and also reduce the effectiveness of medication. As with any viral infection, the immune system should ideally be operating at peak efficiency, and when alcohol is being consumed, this may not be possible.

Getting Treatment for Alcohol Abuse

There are no specific warnings against the use of alcohol with Valtrex, but it is probably best to avoid drinking while using this medication. If you have been prescribed Valtrex and have been unable to refrain from alcohol consumption, it may be time to seek professional treatment for alcohol use disorder or alcoholism.

Harmony Treatment and Wellness is a family-oriented team of highly-skilled professionals who provide individuals with the treatment and support they need to recover from substance abuse. Our caring staff specializes in customized, evidence-based treatment that is intended to offer our clients the best chances for success in the sustainment of long-term sobriety and wellness.

We offer comprehensive programs in both partial hospitalization and outpatient formats. Therapeutic services that we provide include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Behavioral therapy
  • Individual and family counseling
  • Peer support groups
  • Music and art therapy
  • Adventure therapy
  • Health and wellness programs
  • Substance abuse education
  • Aftercare planning

We understand there is still a stigma that surrounds substance abuse. Modern addiction treatment is based on the disease model, and no longer focuses on an individual’s so-called moral failings or lack of willpower. This fact is important to stress because many people are reluctant to enter treatment, in fear that they will be judged, stigmatized, or shamed in some way.

We sincerely want to help those who need it most by giving them the tools and support they need to recover and reclaim the happy and healthy lives they deserve. If you or a loved one is struggling to quit using substances, contact us today to discuss treatment and learn how we can help!

⟹ READ THIS NEXT: Risks of Mixing Seroquel and Alcohol

The Dangers of Snorting Tramadol

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Snorting Tramadol Dangers | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Tramadol is a prescription opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. Although tramadol is thought to have a relatively low potential for addiction when compared to other opioids, it can easily be abused. Misuse of tramadol occurs when a person uses it in amounts or a frequency above the prescribed dose. 

Abuse can also include administering tramadol in a way that is not intended, such as snorting. Doing so is potentially dangerous and can result in dependence and addiction at a faster rate than when used as directed. According to a Time article, snorting any kind of powder is a bad idea and can cause damage to nasal tissues. 

Snorting Tramadol Risks

Snorting tramadol can increase the risk of all of the following:

  • Side effects
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Profound nervous system depression
  • Coma
  • Overdose
  • Tolerance
  • Dependence
  • Seizures

Increased Risk of Overdose

Among the most serious dangers of snorting tramadol is an increased risk of overdose. When snorting tramadol, users must first grind up the tablets into a fine powder. Doing this may increase the chance of overdose because once snorted, it will bypass the digestive system and go directly into the blood. If not properly metabolized by the liver, the potency of tramadol and its effects is more likely to result in overdose, especially when snorted in excessive amounts or in combination with alcohol.

Symptoms of a tramadol overdose may include:

  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Perilously slow pulse
  • Extreme drowsiness
  • Unresponsiveness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Bluish lips, fingers, and toes
  • Cold, clammy skin

Increased Risk of Seizure

The possibility of suffering a seizure is also increased when a person snorts tramadol. There is a potential for seizures to occur even when tramadol is taken in recommended doses, but are more likely to happen if a person abuses the drug or has an overdose.

Increased Risk of Breathing Difficulties

Snorting tramadol can cause a person to lose consciousness due to the excessive amounts of the drug entering the body and bloodstream abruptly. Repeatedly Snorting tramadol can also impair the nose’s filtering capacity and cause small amounts of tramadol powder to enter the lungs. If this occurs, it can result in additional breathing problems.

Increased Risk of Tolerance and Dependence

As noted, snorting tramadol allows for higher amounts of the drug to enter into the body at once. This effect can increase the risk of a user developing tolerance to the drug’s effects. As a result, he or she will need to use larger and more frequent doses of tramadol to experience the desired effects.

Dependence is a condition that hallmarks addiction. Chronic use of tramadol by any method can result in the body adapting to the presence of the drug. When this occurs, the person is no longer able to function normally without it.

People who have developed a dependence on tramadol will encounter uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if they abruptly stop using the drug. Possible tramadol withdrawal symptoms include the following:

  • Nervousness, anxiety, or panic
  • Excessive sweating
  • Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia
  • Runny nose
  • Chills
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Body aches and pains
  • Hallucinations

Increased Risk of Side Effects

Snorting tramadol, instead of consuming it by swallowing, can also increase the risk of encountering side effects. These effects may also be increased in severity and duration.

Snorting Tramadol Dangers | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Why People Snort Tramadol

Snorting tramadol increases the intensity of its effects and can lead to feelings of euphoria. This “high” feeling is the primary reason why people abuse the drug in this way. Some people, however, start out using tramadol for a legitimate medical purpose and steadily begin to increase their dose as tolerance to the drug’s effects increases.

Eventually, a person may reach a ceiling effect in which they no longer feel the effects they seek from oral consumption. Therefore, they may progress to snorting tramadol instead.

Side Effects of Snorting Tramadol

Tramadol has become increasingly popular as a substance of abuse, possibly because other, more potent opioid medications are becoming harder to obtain. Side effects caused by snorting tramadol will depend on how efficiently their body processes the drug and how much damage they have incurred both mentally and physically.

Common side effects of snorting tramadol may include the following:

  • Damage to the nasal passageways
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Skin rash, extreme itchiness
  • Muscle and joint aches and pain
  • Feelings of depression or extreme sadness
  • Anxiety

Less commonly, tramadol abuse may also cause:

  • Swollen joints
  • Fluctuations in weight
  • Severe headaches
  • Impaired coordination
  • Confusion
  • Severe cough

Getting Treatment for Addiction

Harmony Treatment and Wellness is a nationally accredited treatment center that offers comprehensive programs intended to address all aspects of addiction and mental health. We aim to provide our clients with the tools and support they need to be successful in recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to tramadol, other drugs, or alcohol, contact us today! We are committed to helping people break free from the chains of addiction and transform their lives!

⟹ READ THIS NEXT: Dangers of Snorting Gabapentin

How Long Does Lortab Stay in Your System?

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How Long Does Lortab Stay in Your System? | Harmony Stuart

Lortab is an opioid medication commonly used to treat pain and severe cough. It contains both acetaminophen and hydrocodone. Lortab is similar to the more familiar-sounding painkiller combination drugs Norco and Vicodin.

Opioid medications like hydrocodone can cause adverse side effects and lead to abuse and addiction. By understanding how Lortab is processed in a person’s system can help patients use it safely, with less risk to their health.

Lortab Facts

Duration of Effects

Much research has been conducted to determine how long Lortab stays in a person’s system. Lortab starts being processed rapidly, and it can be detected in the person’s saliva and blood within 15–30 minutes of use. Lortab levels are their highest in the blood at around 1.3 hours. If an individual has become dependent on Lortab, they would likely start encountering withdrawal symptoms within 6–12 hours after the last dose.

Half-Life of Lortab

Half-life refers to the amount of time needed for 50% of a substance to be cleared from a person’s system. Lortab’s half-life can be measured by the half-life of hydrocodone, which is, on average, about 3.8 hours. It then takes 5-6 half-lives to expel most of the drug from the system. The half-life of Lortab could also be measured by the half-life of acetaminophen, which is between 1.25–3 hours.

A person’s unique genetic profile and history of Lortab use or misuse may affect Lortab’s concentration in the body at any given time. A drug’s half-life may also be influenced by the method used to measure, such as using urine, blood, or saliva tests.

How Long Can Lortab Be Identified in a Drug Test?

How long Lortab is detectable depends on the bodily fluid (or sometimes hair follicle) used to measure it. Moreover, Lortab is cleared from plasma within just a couple of days. For this reason, drug tests that use bodily fluids are not able to detect Lortab if the person hasn’t recently used it. Lortab use is detectable in the hair follicles for much longer periods, however.

Urine—Research has found that while the majority of hydrocodone has been eliminated from urine was within 24 hours, though it may be detectable in urine for 2–4 days following the last dose.

Blood—As noted, hydrocodone doesn’t remain in the blood for very long, and for this reason, drug screens can only detect it within around 24 hours of using it.

Saliva—Lortab can be detected in a person’s saliva for up to 48 hours. In fact, it may be easier to identify hydrocodone in saliva than in the blood.

Hair—Drugs can remain in hair follicles for a prolonged period. Drug tests can detect many drugs, including hydrocodone, for up to 90 days after a person has discontinued using them.

How Long Does Lortab Stay in Your System? | Harmony Stuart

Factors that Influence How Long Lortab Stays In the System

It is crucial to note individuals process substances at different rates. Factors that may affect Lortab’s half-life include the following:

Frequency and Amount Used—The bodies of persons who have used Lortab for a prolonged period or typically take a high dose will take longer to eliminate the drug from their system.

Age—Older persons are often not able to metabolize opioids as efficiently as younger individuals.

Polysubstance Use or Abuse—Some substances can cause adverse reactions when used in conjunction. A person who has more than one substance in his or her body may not be able to metabolize each drug as fast or effectively. Other substances may include other prescription medication, illegal drugs, alcohol, and even some over-the-counter medications.

Overall Health—A person who suffers from certain co-occurring mental health or physical conditions may have a reduced ability to eliminate Lortab from their system.

How the Body Metabolizes Lortab

Metabolization is a term used to describe the process of substances being broken down in the body. Opioid metabolism begins when liver enzymes start to break it down into simpler components. The drug then is circulated throughout the body, where it reaches a variety of organs and tissues. Over time, it is eventually excreted through urine.

Getting Help for Addiction

If you or someone you love is misusing Lortab, professional help is available. Lortab has a high potential for abuse and addiction, and it’s not difficult to become dependent upon it.

Harmony Treatment and Wellness offers comprehensive programs in both partial hospitalization and outpatient formats. Our programs include evidence-based services proven to be indispensable for recovery, including behavioral therapy. Individuals that choose our center will receive the very best care available and will be supported by our compassionate staff throughout their journey to long-lasting sobriety.

If you are struggling to quit using Lortab, contact us today! Discover more about how we can help you forge your path out of addiction for life!

⟹ READ THIS NEXT: How Long Does Morphine Stay in Your System?

Alcohol Relapse Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

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Alcohol Relapse | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

It doesn’t matter how committed you are to being sober or how long you have been sober because there is always the potential for an alcohol relapse at some point. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), relapse rates range between 40-60%—about half of all people in recovery.

Alcohol Relapse

Following a relapse, many people have feelings of guilt or regret. They may feel like giving up and succumbing to addiction rather than starting over and working hard to prevent a relapse from happening again. These feelings are normal, but they add more challenges to maintaining an alcohol-free lifestyle.

The best approach is to use this relapse as an event from which you can learn. You can alter your relapse prevention plan as needed and re-identify triggers. By delving deeper into the factors that contributed to the relapse, you can build a new foundation for recovery that will enable you to bounce back stronger than before.

Causes of Relapse

Relapsing after a period of abstinence is, unfortunately, a very common event. As noted, around half of all recovering addicts will have a moment of weakness that leads to alcohol use again. Fortunately, knowing some of the signs can help you prevent this from happening.

Signs that may foretell an imminent relapse include, but are not limited to, the following:

Failing to Make Sobriety a Priority

Without a steadfast commitment to long-term recovery, you are more likely to relapse. In order to be successful, you must be ready to embrace the hard work required to remain sober. Activities should include attending 12-step meetings, having a sponsor, and receiving therapy or counseling for co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression.

Not Having a Support Network in Place

A newly sober person requires a solid support system, and this can make the difference between sustained recovery and relapsing back into alcoholism. Ask friends and family to hold you accountable and engage in sober group activities.

Not Quitting for Yourself

In some instances, a person will enter treatment primarily to please their family or friends or because they must meet the terms of probation or other legal problems. Instead of being committed to being sober for their own sake, they feel pressure to do something they would not otherwise do. Moreover, if a person does not truly want to quit for themselves, the chance of relapse is much higher.

Being Unprepared for Life After Treatment

It’s crucial to devise a relapse prevention plan for transitioning back to the real world after treatment. Certain things can undermine sobriety, such as family dysfunction, toxic friendships, isolation, and unhealthy daily habits. By recognizing triggers early on, you can help defend your newfound sobriety.

Alcohol Relapse | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

What to Do After a Relapse

First, you need to decide whether or not you need to go back into treatment. If it was an isolated episode, and you’re dedicated to examining and adjusting your recovery plan, you may not need to go into an intensive treatment program. There are outpatient treatment programs that can help when you don’t require an inpatient stay or around-the-clock supervision.

If you’ve retreated back into an extended pattern of alcohol abuse, however, you will want to consider returning to a more strict treatment program. Moreover, if you have been talking about using substances or hanging out with people who enable or encourage your drinking, these are signs of a bigger problem. Likewise, if you recommence using alcohol as a coping mechanism, you need to seek treatment as soon as possible.

The return to treatment should have a strong emphasis on psychotherapy, which has been remarkably successful in instructing recovering addicts how to engage in new behavioral responses to unhealthy thoughts and feelings.

Other therapies include art and music therapy, meditation techniques, and physical fitness. Following treatment, you can continue to apply these strategies and tools to maintain a low-stress life, as well as cope with depression, anxiety, and anger.

From the minute you begin treatment after an alcohol relapse, your focus should be on the transition back to normal life. Your best option may be to reside in a sober living home, in which accountability can help during those first few vulnerable months after treatment. Also, it would be beneficial to be equipped with an outpatient plan for ongoing therapy or counseling after you are discharged from treatment.

Getting Help for Alcohol Addiction

If you have already undergone treatment and are struggling with an alcohol relapse, there is help available. Harmony Treatment and Wellness offers integrated, research-based treatment for people who suffer from alcohol or drug addictions. Our programs feature vital recovery services such as psychotherapy, counseling, group support, and more.

If you have relapsed or fear you will relapse, contact us today! We can help you get back on the road to long-term recovery and reclaim the happy and healthy life you deserve!

⟹ READ THIS NEXT: Dangers of Alcohol

The Dangers of Mixing Kratom and Alcohol

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Kratom and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Kratom is a tropical plant that is native to Southeast Asia, where its leaves have been used medicinally for thousands of years to increase energy or relieve pain. It is a relatively new substance in the U.S. and is one of the many substances that may have unpredictable, adverse effects when combined with alcohol.

Kratom leaves can be eaten raw or crushed, brewed as a tea or placed into tablets or capsules. Kratom is illegal for use in several states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin.

One of the unusual properties of kratom is that the effects it induces depend on the amount that’s ingested. For example, in low doses, it acts as a stimulant, but in higher doses, it has sedating properties. Although this drug is believed to act like an opioid, it doesn’t typically lead to the same potentially deadly side effects of opioids like morphine.

Kratom use is becoming increasingly common in the U.S. It has been with abuse and addiction, especially excessive doses or chronic use. In a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), kratom was identified in the bodies of 152 individuals who died of a drug overdose. Of these, 19 people also had alcohol present in their systems, although it was not known whether kratom was an agent that contributed to their death.

Side Effects of Kratom and Alcohol

More research is necessary to understand the effects of kratom fully. What is known about kratom are the short- and long-term effects which can vary depending on the dose. These include the following:

Low Dose

  • Decreased appetite
  • Increased energy
  • Alertness
  • Increased sociability

Moderate to High Dose

  • Drowsiness
  • Cough suppression
  • Pain reduction
  • Reduced opioid withdrawal

High Dose

  • Psychosis
  • Anorexia
  • Weight loss
  • Hyperpigmentation

Kratom use can also result in several adverse side effects similar to those of actual opiates, including the following:

  • Tremors
  • Poor motor coordination
  • Dizziness
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Constipation
  • Nausea and vomiting

Dangers of Combining Kratom and Alcohol

Kratom and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Currently, there isn’t enough evidence concerning the potential hazards of mixing kratom and alcohol to be able to identify all the potential dangers. However, by considering the individual properties of these substances, we can suggest possible risks of using this combination.

Alcohol is a depressant, meaning that it depresses the function of the central nervous system (CNS). It also prevents messages from nerve receptors from reaching the brain. As a result, a user’s perceptions, movements, and senses are all affected. In comparison, kratom can act as either a stimulant or a depressant.

Mixing a depressant with a stimulant or with another sedative can be hazardous. For this reason, as with most drug combinations, combining kratom and alcohol is probably not advisable. Although this combination hasn’t been well researched yet, experts generally recommend not using alcohol and kratom concurrently.

Because alcohol is a CNS depressant, combining it with kratom could be very hazardous. It could lead to motor impairment, falls, and poor judgment and decision-making. It could also cause profound sedation, which has the potential to lead to coma or death.

As noted, combining stimulants with alcohol is not a good idea either. Because alcohol has the depressant effect, it could negate the stimulant properties of kratom, which could compel the person to use more kratom than they otherwise would. Also, mixing stimulants with alcohol can increase the risk of seizures, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Some of the various side effects that are possible when combining kratom with alcohol include the following:

  • Sleepiness
  • Accelerated heart rate
  • High blood pressure
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
  • Poor motor control
  • Tremors
  • Altered perception
  • Increased risk of addiction

Alcohol abuse and addiction are also associated with many long-term health problems, including severe liver damage, increased risk of several cancers, and death related to alcohol poisoning. Using other substances in combination with alcohol only adds more complications to alcohol use disorder, and can make it much more challenging to treat.

Treatment for Kratom and Alcohol

Those who are suffering from alcohol and/or kratom abuse or addiction can benefit from professional treatment. Harmony Treatment and Wellness features modern, evidence-based medical care combined with wellness programs and holistic therapies. We use this comprehensive approach to treat a wide range of substance use disorders, including alcohol and kratom addiction.

Our center is staffed with compassionate professionals who all share the same mission to help patients get the most effective treatment possible for their disorders. We design treatment plans unique to the individual to ensure their needs are met and that they are given the best chance for success.

If you or a loved one is motivated to recover and take back your life, contact us today, We are dedicated to ensuring that those who need it most receive all the tools they require to sustain long-lasting happiness and wellness!

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Risks of Using Prednisone and Alcohol

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Prednisone and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Combining prednisone and alcohol can increase the risk of numerous complications. Although prednisone may provide health benefits when taken as directed, when mixed with alcohol, an individual may be at risk of encountering severe health repercussions. When used in conjunction, these two substances can impair a person’s immune system and place them at a higher risk for osteoporosis and other health issues.

People who are using prednisone for chronic conditions may incur more inadvertently worsen those conditions when they consume alcohol. Even occasional episodes of alcohol abuse have the potential to cause serious problems for an individual who is also using prednisone.

What Is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid that comes in a variety of forms, including tablet and liquid. Prednisone works to combat inflammation and allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, and swelling. It also suppresses the immune system, and by doing so, is used as a treatment for autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Prednisone can also be prescribed to those who have lower-than-normal levels of steroids in their body.

Due to these many applications, prednisone may be employed to treat a variety of health conditions. Other examples of conditions that may be treated with prednisone include the following:

  • Adrenal issues
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Bone marrow ailments
  • Endocrine issues
  • Kidney conditions
  • Lupus
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Skin conditions
  • Cancer symptoms
  • Ulcerative colitis

Beyond chemical interactions, alcohol abuse can also result in a person neglecting self-care, which may be vital in managing chronic conditions such as those above. Individually, each of these substances has risks and side effects. Combining them can put even more stress on a person’s body, and in some instances, new health problems may emerge.

Risks and Effects of Alcohol Abuse

Prednisone and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Alcohol abuse can range from occasional episodes of binge drinking to the daily drinking patterns that typify alcoholism. Nevertheless, all forms of alcohol abuse can jeopardize a person’s health, and high levels of consumption, especially over the long term, are even more hazardous.

Potential short-term effects of drinking include blurred vision, slurred speech, dizziness, impaired motor skills, and nausea and vomiting. Complications of an alcohol use disorder may include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Heart problems
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Hypertension
  • Increased cancer risk
  • Liver conditions
  • Stroke
  • Weakened immune system

Some health complications, such as heart problems, can occur from just one night of binge drinking or after extended use. Long-term drinking increases the risk of a person developing this or other severe alcohol-related health conditions.

Side Effects and Risks of Prednisone

Although prednisone can help an individual manage their chronic health problems, this medication can also produce various side effects, including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Bulging eyes
  • Confusion
  • Depression
  • Extreme mood swing
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Changes in personality
  • Insomnia
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
  • Weight gain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swollen face and extremities
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Uncontrollable shaking
  • Vision impairments

When used in conjunction with alcohol, there is the potential that some of these side effects and the risks of either substance could be exacerbated.

Hazards of Combining Prednisone and Alcohol

Both prednisone and heavy alcohol use have been found to increase the risk of many health problems. Although using either of these alone or in combination in no way ensures that an individual will encounter these or other issues, the risk is most definitely increase.

Drinking alcohol while using prednisone may increase the risk that an individual will encounter the following:

Depression

Depression has been associated with alcohol abuse and the use of prednisone. If a person experiences depression as a side effect of one substance, the severity of the depression may be compounded by the use of the other.

Diabetes Risk

Chronic steroid use has been associated with an increase in blood sugar levels and a risk of diabetes caused by steroids. By itself, alcohol abuse can result in blood sugar levels becoming volatile and is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes. As such, drinking alcohol while using prednisone could potentially lead to severe blood sugar issues, including diabetes.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Both alcohol and prednisone use can cause gastrointestinal bleeding. Using these substances in combination could, therefore, increase this risk. What’s more, the stress in the digestive system caused by either or both substance has been associated with the development of peptic ulcers.

Osteoporosis

Prednisone comes with an increased risk of osteoporosis. Heavy alcohol use can destabilize the nutrients in a person’s body, dramatically affecting bone health. Heavy, chronic alcohol abuse has also been associated with a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. Drinking alcohol while using prednisone greatly increases this risk.

Prednisone and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Compromised Immune System

Both prednisone and alcohol suppress the immune system and cause impaired functioning. Mixing the two can profoundly exacerbate this effect. Immune system suppression is generally a desired effect of prednisone for people who suffer from autoimmune diseases. However, if the immune system becomes too weak, an individual may be more susceptible to illness and disease.

In addition to these risks, alcohol abuse could cause a person to neglect to use necessary medications. Furthermore, they may ignore other aspects of self-care that are essential in the management of their health condition.

Alcohol Abuse Can Interfere with Medication Use

The adverse effects of alcoholism can make it challenging for an individual to adhere to a therapeutic routine for their medication. Even sporadic alcohol abuse can result in a person missing a dose. However, those struggling with alcohol dependency tend to neglect to take their medication more often.

Conversely, some people who desire a drink may intentionally skip a dose of prednisone, or cease taking it entirely, to avoid chemical interactions. And, if an individual abruptly quits taking this medication, they could experience an extreme reaction.

Moreover, a person’s system could fail to function correctly due to an absence of naturally occurring steroids. Some people may even experience withdrawal symptoms, such as the following:

  • Body and joint aches
  • Severe fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite

Alcohol can cause dysregulation of a person’s mood. Depression, for example, can lead to a reduction in a person’s sense of self-worth, and they may not take care of themselves as well. This can further lead a person to skip or stop taking their medication, either because they are apathetic or because they have forgotten due to being distracted by low mood.

Getting Help for Alcohol Abuse

If alcohol use is hindering a person’s ability to take care of themselves or putting them at a higher risk of damage to their health, it’s time to seek help. The most effective treatment programs teach a person how to engage in self-care, even when confronted with a chronic illness. By learning coping skills and gaining insight through psychotherapy sessions, an individual is better equipped to surmount the unique challenges that they face.

Harmony Treatment and Wellness provides clients with the tools, support, and everything they need to recover fully and experience long-lasting health and wellness. Our compassionate staff members are dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive the most effective treatment available.

If you or your loved one are ready to break free from alcohol addiction, contact us today—we can help!

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Smoking Oxycodone

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Smoking Oxycodone | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Oxycodone (OxyContin) is a prescription opioid approved to treat moderate-severe pain. It also acts as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Like all opioids, oxycodone has a very high potential for both abuse and addiction.

Oxycodone is addictive because it acts on the brain’s reward center by using certain neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, are chemical messengers in the CNS that contribute to intense feelings of well-being or euphoria.

How Is Oxycodone Used?

Oxycodone is usually prescribed in tablet form, and oral delivery is by far the most common means of abuse. It can also be crushed into a powder, however, and the resulting product can be inhaled into the nasal passage, or put into a pipe or vaporizer and smoked. Both of these other methods of administration result in faster transit of the substance to the brain and will result in the drug acting rapidly on the body, which can ultimately lead to severe side effects.

When oxycodone is smoked, rapid absorption of the drug induces a massive release of dopamine, which then initiates the euphoric “high” and enforces the drug’s potential for addiction. Some studies suggest that oxycodone users may be more likely to use other substances, such as stimulants, which can increase the likelihood of overdose when used simultaneously.

Tolerance and Dependence

Over time, dependence and tolerance can develop from routine oxycodone use. When a user becomes dependent on oxycodone, very unpleasant withdrawal effects will onset if he or she tries to cut back or quit “cold turkey.”

The manifestation of withdrawal symptoms is a telltale sign that the person’s body has become unable to function normally without the drug’s presence. These symptoms are both emotional and physical and can persist for many days after the last dose has been ingested.

Along with dependence, over time, tolerance is likely to occur. As the person’s system becomes less sensitive to oxycodone, he or she will be compelled to take increasing amounts of the drug to reach the desired effects. This cycle of cause-and-effect behavior can rapidly result in a worsening of the addiction, and, ultimately, overdose.

Side effects from consuming large doses of oxycodone, regardless of administration, include the following:

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Respiratory depression
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Low blood pressure
  • Heart failure
  • Overdose
  • Coma
  • Death

Smoking Oxycodone | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Effects of Smoking Oxycodone

One of the fastest methods of becoming intoxicated by a drug is by smoking it. When oxycodone is consumed in this way, the person rapidly becomes intoxicated. Effects may include the following:

  • Confusion
  • Altered mental status
  • Delirium
  • Slow breathing
  • Drowsiness
  • Lack of alertness
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stumbling
  • Impaired coordination

The euphoric effects of the drug will subside more rapidly when opioids are smoked. Because of this fact, persons who smoke oxycodone are more likely to ingest it in a binge-like fashion. Unfortunately, this cycle can result in overdose and death.

Overdose is potentially the most severe side effect caused by excessive doses of oxycodone. When the drug is tampered with and delivered rapidly, the person may be more likely to consume too much. His or her brain may begin to shut down as a result of oxygen deprivation and profound respiratory depression.

Long-term smoking of any substance, including oxycodone, can result in lung infections due to tissue damage, emphysema, or lung cancer. Overdose death is the most severe potential side effect caused by excessive doses of oxycodone.

Effects of Snorting Oxycodone

The manifestation of symptoms of intoxication is slower by way of snorting oxycodone versus smoking. Crushing the drug into a fine powder and ingesting it through the nose still allows the person to avoid the time-release element of the drug and experience the effects more intensely and rapidly than if it were consumed orally as a tablet.

One of the primary side effects that occur due to snorting oxycodone is tissue damage to the nose, sinuses, and throat. This damage can result in chronic nosebleeds, loss of sense of smell or taste, and recurrent bacterial infections in the nose and upper respiratory system.

When oxycodone is snorted, it is absorbed into the bloodstream via mucous membranes that line the nose and throat. This action allows the opioid to reach the brain more rapidly, meaning that its effects can onset within as little as two minutes after intranasal ingestion.

How to Overcome Oxycodone Addiction

Those who tamper with the method of administration, such as moving from oral ingestion to smoking or snorting oxycodone, put themselves at a higher risk of overdose, dependence, addiction, and death.

Rehab programs that specialize in helping people overcome narcotics addiction, such as those offered by Harmony Treatment and Wellness, can help manage withdrawal symptoms and also provide therapy to facilitate long-term recovery.

Our treatment center offers integrated treatment that includes services vital to long-term recovery, such as behavioral therapy, individual and family counseling, medication-assisted treatment, aftercare planning, and more.

If you are struggling with an addiction to oxycodone or another substance, call us today to discuss treatment options and learn how we can help!

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Signs Of Opiate Abuse

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How Long Does Opiate Withdrawal Last | Harmony Treatment and Wellness Center

Signs of Opiate Abuse – Opiates are a sub-class in the opioid drug class. Opioids are prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. When taken as directed by a physician, opioids are a remarkably useful and indispensable facet of modern medicine. Nonetheless, because opioids also alter the effects of dopamine in the brain, they have proven to be exceptionally addictive and have a very high likelihood of being abused.

The term “opiates” technically refers to natural or only slightly modified opioids, as opposed to other fully synthetic substances in the drug class. For the purposes of this article, the distinction is unimportant, so both “opiates” and “opioids” will be used interchangeably to refer to all drugs in the opioid class.

Examples of opioid drugs include the following:

  • Opium
  • Codeine
  • Methadone (Methadose)
  • Buprenorphine (Subutex)
  • Hydrocodone (Hycodan, Vicodin, Norco)
  • Morphine (Kadian, MS Contin)
  • Oxycodone (Percocet, OxyContin)
  • Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
  • Heroin (diamorphine)
  • Fentanyl (Duragesic, Fentora)

What is Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse occurs when the substance is used in any way other than as directed by the prescribing physician, such as taking it more often or in higher doses than prescribed, taking drugs without a prescription, or combining multiple drugs.

Most substances that people regularly abuse are incredibly potent, which is why they require a prescription and oversight by a medical professional. When abused, otherwise beneficial drugs can lead one into a life-altering addiction that proves nearly unconquerable without outside intervention.

Oftentimes, the longer an addiction goes unbridled, the harder it is to surmount. If you suspect that a loved one is struggling with an addiction, it’s crucial to act swiftly, before they suffer irreversible damage. However, it is impossible to help your loved one without being able to recognize the warning signs of opiate abuse, and early detection is vital.

Common signs of opiate abuse include the following:

  • Needle punctures, known as “track marks,” on their arms and legs from intravenous injections
  • Very small, “pinpoint” pupils
  • Extreme sleepiness or trouble staying awake, often at inappropriate times
  • Flushed and itchy skin
  • Withdrawal from social situations or activities once enjoyed
  • Emotional volatility or out of character mood swings
  • Impulsivity and poor decision-making
  • Risky behavior, such as driving while high
  • Visiting multiple different physicians to acquire more opiates
  • Theft, even from loved ones, to purchase more opiates

Once it becomes evident that an individual is struggling with an out of control cycle of opiate abuse or addiction, it’s critical to seek out help as soon as possible. Sometimes a person can escape cycles of abuse just by speaking with their doctor and adjusting their prescription. Others might want to consider attending a substance abuse treatment program or seeing a substance abuse counselor.

Unfortunately, because the effects of opioids are so powerful, most people struggling with a full-blown opiate addiction will need intensive, monitored support at an inpatient rehab center.

Short-Term Side Effects of Opiates

Short-term side effects of opiates depend on the specific drug, how much of it was consumed, and the route of administration. Most of these drugs have effects that occur within 15 minutes to a half hour and can last a couple of hours or even a day.

Immediate or short-term side effects of opiate use include the following:

  • Slowed and shallow breathing
  • Flushed, itchy skin
  • Euphoria
  • Lightheadedness
  • Impaired judgment
  • Slurred speech
  • Blurred vision
  • Constipation
  • Hallucinations
  • Nausea and vomiting

Long-Term Side Effects of Opiates

Schedule II Drugs | Harmony Treatment and Wellness Center

Among the most damaging long-term side effects of opioid abuse is the harm it does to the body’s vital organs. People may also suffer from psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

Other long-term side effects of these drugs include the following:

  • Vein damage from intravenous drug use
  • Emotional instability and moodiness
  • Severe constipation
  • Lack of concentration
  • Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
  • Liver damage

The Dangers of Opioids

Opioids are found in several different forms and can be administered in a number of ways. Frequently these drugs are prescribed as oral capsules or tablets. While most people obtain a legitimate prescription from their doctor, some pilfer drugs from family members or friends. Using a narcotic that is not prescribed to you is considered abuse, however, and is illegal.

Still, others use street drugs such as heroin and illicit fentanyl, which are often less expensive and easier to procure. Heroin is unregulated and is usually cut with other substances that increase its potential for harm. Fentanyl, a far more potent opioid is one of these substances and is currently involved in thousands of deaths in the U.S. each year.

A person suffering from an addiction to painkillers may experiment with various methods of delivery to achieve the high with the greatest intensity possible. Tablets can be crushed into a powder and then snorted, or powder can be dissolved in liquid and used intravenously.

Snorting or injecting opiates results in a near-instantaneous “rush” that is much more intense than taking a pill orally. However, this means of administration also increases the risk of life-threatening CNS depression and overdose.

These drugs are even more dangerous when combined with other central nervous system depressants, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol, and can exponentially increase the risk of serious complications that can lead to death.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is another serious health risk and may occur when someone who is pregnant suffers from a substance abuse disorder involving opiates.

These drugs can pass through the placenta, and cause the baby to develop a dependence on the drug while in utero. After birth, the infant may need to remain in the hospital for several weeks while the drug slowly clears from their system.

Identifying an Opiate Addiction

Recognizing an opiate addiction can be challenging due to the confusion that exists between what is considered misuse, abuse, and addiction. Most people who use painkillers in the short-term and as directed will not become addicted. However, a person who misuses drugs in large amounts or over prolonged periods is more likely to develop an addiction.

The defining characteristic of addiction is an intense urge to obtain and use the substance despite adverse consequences that will likely occur. A person in the throes of addiction is not capable of controlling their substance use – and while they may desperately want to quit, they feel helpless to do so on their own.

In addition to dangerous health risks, opiate abuse can also interfere with one’s personal life and close relationships with family and friends.

The consequences of opiate abuse/misuse may include the following:

  • Job loss due to prioritizing substance use over work duties and responsibilities
  • Financial problems caused by excessive spending on new prescriptions or illicit drugs
  • Criminal charges for the illegal possession of painkillers
  • Strained relationships with family members, friends, and significant others

Staging an Intervention

When a person is suffering from a substance use disorder, those close to them may consider staging an intervention. Interventions are pre-planned conversations between the person experiencing addiction and their loved ones.

They are often held after the issue has been addressed with the person, who then subsequently denied having a problem or refused to seek help. The objective of an intervention is to convince and help the person to seek and receive treatment.

Because addiction subjugates the brain’s sense of awareness and judgment, the person often does not realize the extent to which their actions have impacted their loved ones.

Some families choose to stage an intervention when their loved one shows early signs of abusive behavior toward substances. Others may only feel it is necessary when a person’s addiction has scaled beyond control, and many negative consequences have already occurred.

Regardless of when an intervention takes place, most experts advise seeking guidance from an intervention specialist who will be able to oversee the intervention and ensure the conversation remains healthy and productive and free of shame and blame.

Signs of Opiate Abuse: Opiate Withdrawal Help

Beating an addiction to painkillers may be challenging, but is entirely possible. Participation in a detox program is often the first step in the recovery process, as this helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensures patients are safe, comfortable, and unable to relapse. Moreover, detox programs produce a solid foundation for people to pursue further therapeutic services in an inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment program.

You CAN reclaim your life, free from drugs and the feelings of hopelessness that addiction promotes. If you or a loved one is struggling with the decision to seek help, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss your options and begin your journey to a happier and healthier life!