Tag Archives: recovery and wellness

person using one of the ways to convince your loved one to go to a rehab center in West Virginia

Ways to Convince Your Loved One to Go to a Rehab Center in West Virginia

When faced with the challenges of addiction, seeking help becomes an indispensable step toward recovery. The significance of reaching out for assistance cannot be overstated, as it holds the potential to transform lives and pave the way for a brighter future. However, when it comes to ways to convince your loved one to go to a rehab center in West Virginia, such as Harmony Ridge Recovery Center WV, hurdles may arise that test your resolve and patience. This article will delve into the importance of seeking help for addiction. It will also explore the intricacies of persuading a cherished individual to consider rehabilitation as a viable solution. By shedding light on these topics, you can gain valuable insights and strategies to navigate this delicate and critical endeavor. Continue reading

Dating an Addict

Dating a Recovering Addict – What to Know and How to Help

Dating an Addict

A significant other is supposed to be a person that acts as a source of strength in hard times. Normally a partner is a person you trust the most in the world but what happens when you’re dating a recovering addict? Addiction is a chronic disease that can make the person you love the most lie, steal, and put your mental health in danger. 

So is it worth it? It depends. There are more ground rules when loving a recovering addict that must be followed to keep everyone safe and happy. At the end of the day, recovering addicts are people with medical disorders. Choosing to stay with them is a difficult choice with no right answer. But it’s possible and worth it with the right information. 

Signs Your Partner Has An Addiction 

Recognizing the signs of addiction in a relationship is tricky. Romantic partners may still not recognize that their loved ones suffer from addiction. This is partly due to romantic partners being more likely to trust their significant others and ignore the signs of addiction even though some may be apparent. 

It’s important to talk to your romantic partners that suffer from substance use when it gets out of control. Of course, it will hurt. And they might get defensive and angry about it. But, it’s worth the discussion for the well-being of the relationship and the person who is struggling with an alcohol or substance use disorder. 

These signs and symptoms of addiction are worth talking about if you notice them: 

  • Pawning valuable items, like a wedding ring 
  • Lying about their spending habits 
  • Making up vague reasons for why they need more money 
  • A sudden change in physical appearance or personal hygiene 
  • Losing friends because of their alcohol and drug use 
  • Becoming friends with individuals who constantly drink and use drugs 
  • Increased irritability 
  • A drastic change in sleeping and eating patterns 
  • They are randomly energized and talkative followed by a depressed mood 
  • They start to exhibit signs of mental illness 

When to Continue Dating a Recovering Addict

Loving a recovering addict is possible. However, sustaining a healthy romantic relationship with a recovering addict is impossible if he or she doesn’t get help. 

Dating a Recovering Addict

When people find out that their significant others suffer from addiction, it can make them feel deceived. As if the ones that they want to spend their lives with can’t be trusted. It may be easier to cut ties and let go. This possibility is extremely painful in itself. 

If individuals recognize that they have a substance use problem and want to fix it, it’s a relationship worth salvaging. The symptoms above may not signal an alcohol or substance use disorder. Though, it’s worth a conversation. If individuals that exhibit these substance addiction symptoms continue to get angry and deny their issues despite multiple attempts to help them, it may be time to move on. Otherwise, give them a chance to redeem themselves. 

How To Preserve Your Mental Health Dating a Recovering Addict 

Dating a recovering addict can be emotionally taxing. Sometimes it’s more important to preserve your mental health and leave them be, while other times it’s best to be a pillar of strength when your significant other needs it the most. 

Many people with an addiction also suffer from a mental illness. It’s easy to get depressed and anxious as a result. That’s something that you’ll need to make note of if you choose to support your loved one through his or her addiction recovery journey.

Self-Care and Positive Activities for Your Mental Health

Certain self-care activities and positive behaviors can help people stay positive when they’re dating a recovering addict: 

  • Check-in with yourself. Try to do this every day to see where your mental health is at. Just like addiction, it’s necessary to catch failing mental health early on to make sure it doesn’t get any worse than it already is. If it’s getting worse, take action to make sure it gets better. 
  • Talk to loved ones. Addiction can make a person feel lonely. The same can be said about someone who chose dating a recovering addict. Reaching out to friends and family can help preserve mental health in trying times. They are there for you and can act as a source of strength when your partner doesn’t have the ability to. 
  • Take time every day to do things that make you happy. Part of maintaining mental health is self-care. Self-care doesn’t always mean spending lots of money and eating out all the time. Instead, it means taking simple pleasure in small, enjoyable activities. That could be taking a bubble bath or setting aside some time in the morning to read a book. It might be helpful to physically schedule time for you to do things that you enjoy.
  • Consider natural mood boosters. There are essential oils and supplements that can help ward off anxiety and depression. It can help individuals get through a rough time without side effects. 

How To Set Boundaries When Dating a Recovering Addict   

Boundaries are a set of rules that dictate how a person should treat you. There are consequences when those rules are broken. Establishing boundaries is the core of salvaging a relationship that’s been hurt by addiction. 

Establish boundaries based on how your significant other communicates with you. If he or she lies to you, what are the consequences? If your significant other takes out his or her frustration with addiction out on you, what will happen? 

Additionally, it might be a good idea to set boundaries about personal belongings. Are you alright with your significant other going through your personal belongings? If not, make sure to clearly say so. Boundaries are important because they set expectations about how a significant other should act to maintain a healthy relationship. 

The Don’ts of Dating a Recovering Addict 

Don’t Blame Yourself For His or Her Addiction

When a significant other is suffering from an alcohol or substance use disorder, you might blame yourself. Even worse, your significant other might blame you completely for it. It might be valid to say that you played a part in it. If so, you might need to change your actions to help your loved one get through this dark period in their life. 

Still, remember that addiction is a chronic disease that neither you nor your significant other has any control over. Keep this in mind instead of pointing fingers. If your significant other places all the blame for his or her addiction on you without taking any accountability, that person isn’t ready to be in a relationship. 

Don’t Lose Sleep Over It Every Single Night

It’s understandable to be worried about a loved one when he or she is recovering from a serious addiction. Yet, being excessively worried won’t help anyone. If you’re up late at night worrying, it could hurt your health. Make sure that you’re getting enough sleep every night to stay mentally and physically fit. Think of negative thoughts as passing cars. Notice them, but watch them pass by and fade away. 

Don’t Keep Feelings Bottled Up

Recovering Addict and relationships

Talk to your significant other about your feelings in a productive way without getting angry. Addressing an issue angrily can cause people to get defensive and angry right back. Alternatively, individuals may agree with their angry significant others just to appease them. 

It’s tough to actively decide not to become emotional during an emotionally-charged conversation. Expressing how your significant other’s addiction hurts you calmly will be more productive with that extra effort.  

Don’t Stay In the Relationship If They’re Not Putting In Any Effort

Is your significant other agreeing to get help without taking any action? Does he or she get defensive even though they clearly have an alcohol or substance use disorder? In that case, it may be time to let go. 

Sometimes it takes a serious ultimatum to make someone see the error of their ways. Set a timeline. If they don’t get help by a certain time, give them the ultimatum. 

Ways To Help Without Enabling When Dating a Recovering Addict   

Make Nutritious Meals Together 

Eating a healthy diet is important for physical and mental health. So, it’s even more important when a significant other is recovering from an alcohol or substance use disorder. 

Encouraging your significant other to eat a nutritious diet by doing so yourself can benefit you both. Make meals full of different colors. Fruits and vegetables can help a recovering addict heal quicker. 

Journal With Them 

Don’t share a journal, but encourage them to process their feelings through writing by doing it too. Journaling is a fantastic way to figure out where negative thoughts arise from and possibly identify triggers. For people dating a recovering addict, it’s a positive way to avoid bottling up negative thoughts and emotions. Writing in a journal as little as 10 minutes a day can help. 

Exercise Together 

Exercise releases feel-good chemicals similar to drugs and alcohol. Although it’s not in the same amount, it can help a recovering addict avoid relapse and feel happy in the process. This is one reason why many addiction treatment centers work exercise therapy into patients’ routines. It’s harder for someone to skip out on an activity if they have someone to do it with.

Attend Couples Therapy 

Talking about negative feelings and emotions is great. But it can only go so far at times. This might be the case when loving a recovering addict. A therapist can help act as a guide and mediator to facilitate a productive conversation. 

Hold Each Other Accountable For Bad Habits

It’s possible your bad habits aren’t helping your significant other stay sober. Again, an alcohol and substance use disorder is a complex medical condition that nobody can control. However, doing things like drinking a pack of beers every weekend doesn’t help you or your loved one struggling with an addiction. Hold your significant other accountable for their actions, but be ready to do the same. 

Don’t Suffer Alone—Harmony Ridge Can Help  

Dating a recovering addict without professional help might hurt you both in the process. We know that addiction can be damaging to a significant other just as much as the person recovering from an addiction. 

Our evidence-based addiction treatment center in West Virginia offers support to those suffering from substance abuse and those that love them. We’re here to support you and your significant other along the road to recovery. Contact us now to get the help you both need. 

worried young woman thinking whether to give rehab in Clarksburg another chance

Reasons to Give Rehab in Clarksburg Another Chance

Addiction is a complex issue that affects millions of people around the world. Unfortunately, negative perceptions and stigmas associated with rehab centers can prevent those struggling with addiction from seeking the help they need. Past negative experiences and misconceptions can deter individuals from reaching out. However, it’s important to recognize the many reasons to give rehab in Clarksburg another chance. From affordable treatment options to comprehensive programs and experienced staff members, the rehab center in Clarksburg WV can provide the support and guidance necessary to overcome addiction and lead a fulfilling life. Continue reading

College students thinking about the most commonly abused drugs in colleges in West Virginia

The Most Commonly Abused Drugs in Colleges in West Virginia

College life is often portrayed as a time of fun, adventure, and newfound freedom. However, for many students in West Virginia, it can also be a time of experimentation and substance abuse. Drug abuse is a pervasive problem in colleges across the United States, but West Virginia faces unique challenges, with addiction and overdose rates higher than the national average. From alcohol and marijuana to prescription drugs and opioids, college students in West Virginia are turning to a variety of substances to cope with the pressures of academic and social life. In this article, our experts from Harmony Ridge Recovery Center WV will tell you more about the most commonly abused drugs in colleges in West Virginia and the risks associated with them. Continue reading

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Tips for Rebuilding Your Life After Addiction Treatment in WV

Life after rehab isn’t exempt from a myriad of challenges. Once you leave the rehab facility, the biggest task is upon you – getting used to a sober, structured life. According to evidence-based studies, the first couple of months are the most crucial in a newly established sober lifestyle.  If you are worried about rebuilding your life after addiction treatment in WV, this useful guide might be exactly what you’re looking for. In addition, you may contact us at Harmony Ridge Recovery Center WV for additional guidance and treatment. We’re here to help everyone on the quest to live a drug-free, serene life by offering professional treatments, an aftercare program, as well as relapse-prevention strategies. Continue reading

faceless man holding woman's hand

How Can Toxic Relationships Influence Addiction?

One of the ways people often cope with the negative effects of toxic relationships is through substance abuse. Alcohol and drug addiction can provide temporary relief from the pain and stress of a toxic relationship, but ultimately, they only make the situation worse. If you find this situation relatable, then it’s time to recognize ways toxic relationships influence addiction. Seek help and prioritize your health and well-being. You can contact us at Harmony Ridge Recovery Center WV for additional information about treatments designed to help you break free from addictive habits and take steps towards a healthier life and future. Continue reading

Family Therapy In Teen Addiction Treatment

Are There Support Groups for Families of Addicts?

When a family member who is part of your support system begins using drugs or alcohol and it is causing problems with his or her life and the lives of those around that person, you may be wondering just what you can do to help. 

The support groups for families of addicts can connect you with other families in a similar situation, making it easier for you to cope. These support groups also offer education and resources on how to best support your loved ones during their recovery process.

Such drug abuse can take away everything that a person has worked toward for so long. There are support groups out there for families just like yours that can help keep your loved one on track.

These support groups for families of addicts will provide you with the support needed when it comes to dealing with someone in your life who has chosen to get clean and sober before it’s too late. The support group also helps parents deal with children who are at risk of relapse or who may already be addicted to drugs or alcohol.

The help that these support groups for families of addicts provide will be invaluable when it comes to the long road ahead. Not only do they offer support, but they also provide hope that your loved one can get clean and sober and stay that way. With the support of these groups, you can feel confident that you are doing everything possible to help your loved one through this difficult time.

 

What Is A Support System?

A support system can be the bedrock of addiction recovery. It is a group of people who support your sobriety and provide you with encouragement to stay on track. Your support system can also be made up of family members, friends, or close acquaintances.

The Importance Of A Support System

Having a support system is important for several reasons: 

– People in recovery are more likely to relapse if they do not have a support system. 

– A support system provides accountability and support. 

– A support system can help you maintain your sobriety. 

– A support system can offer emotional support during difficult times. 

– A support system can provide practical support, such as rides to meetings or providing meals. 

– A support system can help you establish priorities for your life, which makes you better prepared to fight the disease of addiction. 

– A support system provides valuable feedback about your recovery. 

– A support system can help avoid social support by offering support for people experiencing social support. 

Families of Addicts & Their Roles

Families of addicts can adopt roles such as protector, enabler, co-dependent, and scapegoat. 

The Protector role is often adopted by the family member who tries to take care of everyone and make sure they are okay. The Enabler role enables the addict’s behavior by making excuses for the addict, providing the addict with money or drugs, and/or cleaning up after the addict. 

The Co-Dependent role is often adopted by the family member who feels responsible for the addict’s well-being and tries to control the addict’s behavior. The Scapegoat role is often adopted by the family member who takes on the blame for everything that goes wrong in the family. Family roles can cause distress and resentment, and make it difficult for family members to support each other.

Codependency can be defined as an emotional and behavioral pattern that can be both psychologically and socially harmful. Codependency is a learned behavior or learned helplessness. Co-dependent people believe that they cannot function without the other person’s support, love, guidance, etc. 

This support is important for maintaining self-esteem and self-worth. The support provided by another person may come in the form of a drug that affects a mental or physical impairment upon oneself. For instance, if a mother has a child who has been struggling with alcohol abuse, she may clean up after the child and even deny that the child has a problem. In doing so, she will have to miss work from time to time because being around sick people puts her at risk.

There are support groups available for families of addicts all over the world. They can provide much-needed support and guidance to help cope with the unique challenges of addiction. It’s important for family members of addicts to attend support group meetings and individual counseling

What Is The Importance of Having Family Support While in Addiction Treatment and Recovery?

The importance of having family support while in addiction treatment can’t be stressed enough. Recovery support groups for families of addicts are one of the most important aspects of addiction treatment. Family support is key to long-term recovery because it can help prevent relapse by having the support of loved ones

When someone enters addiction treatment, that person is taught how to better deal with feelings and emotions without using drugs or alcohol. People are given coping mechanisms that they can use if their triggers don’t expose them to substances that will lead to relapse. 

If family support is available during this time, then it’s much easier for people to avoid relapsing once they leave rehab. When people feel alone after leaving rehab, relapse becomes more likely since there isn’t anyone there who understands what they’re going through. 

What If I Don’t Have A Support System? 

If you don’t have a support system, then it’s time to build one. This can be done by joining support groups for families of addicts. There are many of these groups available both online and in-person. 

There are also support groups specifically for parents of addicts. These can be helpful since they provide a space for parents to share their stories and learn from each other. They can also offer support during tough times. 

It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in your addiction treatment and recovery journey. There are many others who understand what you’re going through and are willing to help. 

If you’re struggling with addiction or if someone you love is struggling with addiction, it’s important to seek help. Online resources and support groups can be a great place to start, but it’s important to also seek professional help. There are many addiction treatment centers that can help. You don’t have to do this alone. There is support available for you and your family. 

Addiction is a difficult disease that affects both the addict and his or her loved ones. Family members often feel helpless and unsure of what to do. Support groups for families of addicts can provide much-needed support during this difficult time. These groups offer a space for family members to share their stories and learn from each other. They can also offer support during tough times.

What Are the Best Resources Are For Families Members that Suffer from Addiction?

There are plentiful resources for families members that suffer from addiction. Support groups are the best resources for support. Support groups exist in most communities and can be found by looking online or talking to friends who have family members with addiction problems.

When a loved one is struggling with an addiction, families tend to react in a number of different ways: from anger and blame, guilt and shame, fear and sadness, helplessness and hopelessness. All these emotions interfere with the ability to find support during difficult times as well as support for healthy changes. 

In addition to support groups, families should take time every day for self-care practices such as journaling or meditating that will help them avoid negative feelings while in between support group meetings. 

List of Some Good Support Systems for Addicts and Families of Addicts

  • Al Anon: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is probably the most famous support group for addicts and their families. This 12-step program is based on Alcoholics Anonymous and provides support and encouragement through peer sharing. 

The 12-step program that offers support and encouragement through peer sharing. The focus is not only on alcohol addiction, but any addiction that affects the family. 

  • Nar Anon: Like Al Anon, this support group provides support and encouragement through peer sharing. The focus is on drug addiction, for both the addict and the addict’s family members. 
  • Dual Recovery Anonymous: This support group works with addicts who are also dealing with an addiction of another type, such as food or sex addiction. 
  • SA Lifeline Foundation: This support group focuses on support for adolescents, usually teens aged 12 to 16 years old whose parent has a mental illness – whether it’s depression, schizophrenia, or another disorder – that causes them to have behavioral issues.
  • SMART Recovery: SMART Recovery can be described as a “self-management and recovery training” program that helps addicts learn how to abstain from their addiction, deal with urges, manage thoughts and emotions, and live a balanced life. 

What Are The Benefits of Having Support Groups for Families of Addicts?

There are benefits of having support groups for families of addicts. One of the benefits is that family members will have a safe place to share their feelings and thoughts about the addiction. They will also be able to receive support from other family members who are going through a similar situation. This support can help family members feel less alone and more hopeful.

In addition, support groups can provide families with information about addiction and its effects on the family. Families can also learn about resources available to them, such as treatment centers or support groups for addicts. Finally, support groups can help families develop coping skills that they can use in order to deal with the addiction. 

There are many different types of support groups for families of addicts. Some support groups are specific to the type of addiction such as alcohol or drug addiction. Other support groups are open to families of any addict, regardless of the type of addiction. 

Basic Support Group Rules

While there are no requirements that support groups must follow, there are some guidelines that support groups typically follow: 

  • Meetings should be safe places where participants respect each other’s privacy and confidentiality. 
  • Participants feel free to share their feelings without fear of being criticized or judged by others in the group. You may gain ideas from others’ experiences but remember that everyone has individual needs and personal limits. 
  • Groups work best when members actively participate in meetings

Support group for parents of addicts is a support group that is specific to parents of addicts. 

This type of support group can provide parents with information about addiction and its effects on the family. 

Parents can also learn about resources available to them, such as treatment centers or support groups for addicts. Finally, support groups can help parents develop coping skills that they can use in order to deal with the addiction. 

What Should I Consider When I’m Looking for Support Groups?

When looking for support groups, there are several things to consider. First, determine the support group’s purpose. In addition to support groups for families of addicts, there are support groups for addicts. Support groups specifically for family members often have a more limited focus and may be better suited depending on your specific needs.

When looking for support groups, don’t forget to check online since there are many support groups out there that you can join or start yourself. You might also want to consider joining regional community organizations or faith-based communities. 

Another thing to consider is what type of support you feel that you need. Some support options include phone support or online support programs which may offer a different experience from attending support groups in person. 

There are also free support options as well as paid support options available to those who can afford them. So, make sure to research any potential expenses involved beforehand when attending a support group. What works best for one family member might not work at all for another.

Revitalize Your Life Through Harmony Ridge

While support groups can be helpful to your friends and loved ones who are addicts, support groups specifically for families of addicts may be even more beneficial because they give you the opportunity to support each other and work together to find a solution.
If you are looking for support groups for families of addicts, there are many different places you can turn. The Internet is a great source of information. If you’re struggling with addiction or if someone you love is struggling with addiction, please reach out to Harmony Ridge for support.

Alcohol Cravings and How to Beat Them

What Triggers Alcohol Cravings and How to Beat Them

Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a disease that affects people from all walks of life. Experts have tried to pinpoint factors like genetics, sex, race, or socioeconomics that may predispose someone to alcohol addiction. But it has no single cause. Psychological, genetic, and behavioral factors can all contribute to having the disease. One of the major obstacles to recovery from alcohol use disorder is having to deal with cravings for alcohol. Cravings are response patterns that are programmed in people and appear as a result of environmental conditions, changes in mood, stress, or other types of triggers that prime these response patterns. Although sometimes cravings may appear to simply come out of nowhere, they are most often triggered by some environmental situation, feeling, or memory that one has about former alcohol abuse.

From sugar to caffeine to opioids, anyone who has quit an addictive substance understands how tough it is to get through cravings. Knowledge is power, so here’s some basic information on cravings to help you understand what’s happening in your body and mind when the urge to drink, use, smoke, or grab a brownie hits.

Alcohol Cravings And How To Beat Them

 

Can you see the signs of alcoholism?

Alcohol addiction can be difficult to recognize. Unlike cocaine or heroin, alcohol is widely available and accepted in many cultures. It’s often at the center of social situations and closely linked to celebrations and enjoyment. Drinking is a part of life for many people. When is it common in society, it can be hard to tell the difference between someone who likes to have a few drinks now and then and someone with a real problem.

Some symptoms of alcohol addiction are:

  • increased quantity or frequency of use
  • high tolerance for alcohol, or lack of “hangover” symptoms
  • drinking at inappropriate times, such as first thing in the morning, or in places like church or work
  • wanting to be where alcohol is present and avoiding situations where there is none
  • changes in friendships; someone with an alcohol addiction may choose friends who also drink heavily
  • avoiding contact with loved ones
  • hiding alcohol, or hiding while drinking
  • dependence on alcohol to function in everyday life
  • increased lethargy, depression, or other emotional issues
  • legal or professional problems such as an arrest or loss of a job

As an addiction tends to get worse over time, it’s important to look for early warning signs. If identified and treated early, someone with an alcohol addiction may be able to avoid major consequences of the disease.

How addictive is alcohol?

Alcohol can be a highly addictive substance, especially when consumed in large amounts within a short period of time. Alcohol addiction develops in several stages. The process of addiction may begin with the first drink, with physical and mental factors that can escalate quickly. Like any other addictive drug, alcohol affects the brain’s chemistry. When a person drinks alcohol, the drug causes their brain to release the neurotransmitters, which are chemicals responsible for signaling (among other things) pleasure and reward. In the brain, alcohol increases the effects of neurotransmitters that slow the body down while also decreasing the effects of neurotransmitters that speed the body up. The combined effect results in many of the intoxicating effects of alcohol.

What are triggers for alcohol cravings?

Triggers and cues are different names for the same type of situation that leads to a priming or activation of a craving in an individual. They can be very personal and subjective in nature, or they can be quite generalized and occur over many individuals. The effects of cues and triggers produce both physical and mental changes that eventually are interpreted as a craving.External triggers are more obvious to recognize and control than internal ones. Alcohol abuse treatment strives to help patients understand the initial warning signs of relapse and acquire healthy coping skills to prevent a possible relapse.

External Triggers

External triggers are objects, places, people, and activities that evoke cravings linked with alcohol use. Patients in recovery can be sheltered from the risks of external triggers by producing strategies to avoid triggers that prompt their prior alcohol use. Patients should also be able to fight their alcohol cravings when they’re in triggering circumstances.

People

People who are closest to the alcoholic could be a cause of cravings that ultimately lead to relapse. It is unsafe for patients in recovery to be around friends and family who are consuming alcohol.

Even peers who refrain from alcohol can be hazardous. Offering alcohol to a former addict could trigger emotions that urge an alcoholic to use again.

Places

High-risk places remind former alcohol abusers of the times they engaged in drinking to get drunk. Driving or walking through areas where alcoholics used to drink may spark a recollection related to alcohol use.

Situations

Those who are at risk of relapse should avoid stressful circumstances that could urge them to start consuming alcohol again. Individuals can find different ways to avoid high-risk situations such as happy hours or events where they previously would hang out and binge drink.

A person can identify the feelings that could trigger a relapse by questioning themselves:

  • How do I feel before consuming alcohol?
  • How do I want to think before drinking alcohol?
  • Within the last week, how did I feel when craving alcohol?

Patients in recovery must be conscious of the internal triggers they struggle with most and have a method ready to seek support.

Dealing With Triggers

Once you are aware of your triggers, you can decide how you want to deal with them. For some triggers the best plan is to avoid them, especially in the beginning. For example, some people find that they need to avoid social gatherings with alcohol.

Other triggers, like stressful life events, cannot be avoided. However, you can take control over unavoidable triggers by anticipating ways to handle them. If you are faced with a trigger that causes a craving you can:

  • Reach out to a sponsor or other sober support.
  • Attend a 12-step or other recovery meeting such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
  • Use distraction by changing the scenery or engaging in a hobby.
  • Avoid stressful situations during an intense craving.

MAT (Medically Assisted Treatments) for Alcohol Cravings

Medication-assisted treatment programs exist to help individuals remain substance-free when entering and throughout recovery. For severe addictions, detoxification is often the first stage of recovery. During a medically supervised detox program, individuals rid their body of substances and prepare for inpatient treatment. This process may involve the use of medications to ease symptoms or help taper off the use of substances. Medically assisted treatments (medications) attempt to address cravings by affecting the actual physical process associated with the craving and then eliminating the strength of the craving in the person. There are numerous medications that have been used to address cravings for alcohol.

Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in the nation, and many people are high-functioning alcoholics or people who live with heavy alcohol use disorders every day. These people may have been abusing alcohol for years, which makes treatment for alcohol dependence more complicated. Medications can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and ease cravings so a person can remain fully focused on healing and committed to recovery.

What is the outlook for alcoholism and alcohol cravings?

Early treatment of alcoholism is most effective. Addictions that have gone on longer are harder to break. However, long-term addictions can be successfully treated. Friends and family members of people who have an alcohol addiction can benefit from professional support or by joining programs like Al-Anon. Someone with an alcohol addiction who has remained sober for months or years may find themselves drinking again. They may binge drink once or drink for a period of time before getting sober again. But a relapse doesn’t indicate failure. It’s important that the person get back on track and resume treatment. Ultimately, sobriety is the responsibility of the person who has the alcohol addiction. It’s important to not enable destructive behaviors and to maintain appropriate boundaries if the person with the alcohol addiction is still drinking. This can mean cutting off financial assistance or making it difficult for them to fulfill the addiction.

Managing Alcohol Cravings and Addiction with Harmony Ridge Recovery Center

You don’t have to go through recovery alone. Many people who struggle with alcohol addiction find it difficult or impossible to quit without the help or support of others. There are many professionals and support groups designed to get you the help you need. Increase your chance of a full recovery with the help of a dedicated treatment center. Contact our team today to learn more!

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Fun Sober Activities to Brighten Up Your Recovery in Fairmont WV

If you’re in recovery and looking for fun ways to stay sober, you’re not alone. Finding enjoyable activities to do without alcohol or drugs can be challenging, but it’s crucial to keep your recovery on track. Fortunately, there are plenty of sober activities to brighten up your recovery in Fairmont WV. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone, including you. This guide will provide you with practical tips, and additional helpful information. Continue reading

Signs You’re Enabling a Loved One’s Addiction

Having a loved one who is struggling with addiction can be a challenging and painful experience. It is normal to want to help them in any way possible, but sometimes, our actions can unintentionally contribute to their addiction. Enabling is a common phenomenon that occurs when we unknowingly or knowingly support and aid a loved one’s addiction. Unfortunately, enabling a loved one’s addiction can lead to further harm and even fatal outcomes. That being said, it’s your responsibility to recognize and unlearn the patterns of enabling and turn to addiction treatment centers in West Virginia for help. Continue reading