How PTSD and Addiction Are Linked

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PTSD, also known as post traumatic stress disorder, is often linked with addiction and substance abuse disorders. If you aren’t familiar with PTSD or addiction, or how the two can be intertwined, Anchored Tides Recovery is here to share with you more information regarding the two disorders. 

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Evelyn lost her parents at the age of 8 to a terrible accident. Since then, she has suffered several panic attacks and exhausting emotional outbursts.

Some nights, she hardly sleeps. And some days, anxiety and depression disconnect her from friends and family.

To cope with loneliness and feelings of depression and anxiety, she started experimenting with drugs and alcohol, and eventually became addicted to these substances. 

This is just one of the many examples of a person experiencing PTSD and addiction. Most people who, at any point in their lives, suffered trauma can often overcome the experience on their own. However, when PTSD ensues, the symptoms hardly go away.

 

What is PTSD and Addiction?

PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a mental health and anxiety disorder. It happens when a person witnesses or experiences a life-threatening or traumatic event. Examples of such events are:

  • The death of loved ones
  • Sexual abuse
  • Physical abuse
  • Fatal accidents and injuries
  • Natural disasters
  • War
  • Terrorist attacks

Sadly, you don’t need to have to witness any of the events above before suffering PTSD. You might develop PTSD when a loved one experiences life-endangering occurrences.

In another case, having a history of mental illness can also lead to PTSD. And if you’re a woman, the chances of having PTSD are unfortunately higher. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, women are more likely to develop PTSD than men.

How to Tell If You Have PTSD

When a person suffers PTSD, they may display specific symptoms. The common symptoms include (but are not limited to):

  • Panic attacks
  • Insomnia and nightmares
  • Persistent anger
  • Mood swings
  • Excessive agitation and fear

Some people with PTSD may turn to alcohol and drugs to manage and cope with the symptoms, and ultimately end up becoming addicted to said substances. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD and addiction, please don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

At the earliest stages of PTSD with early intervention, it’s very possible to recover from PTSD without medications. However, when the symptoms of PTSD become disruptive and unmanageable, getting prescription drugs or treatments is a good option. Presently, the widely-approved medications for PTSD are antidepressants. Antidepressants are likely to suppress PTSD symptoms such as anger issues, fear, and agitation.

Another medication is Prazosin. It helps to suppress PTSD symptoms such as sleeplessness and nightmares.

How PTSD and Addiction Are Linked

The two disorders share a mutual link/nature. PTSD alters brain chemistry just as much as substance abuse.

For that reason, a singular trauma can simultaneously trigger PTSD and substance. And that is why substance abuse can lead to PTSD. Sudden withdrawal from drugs or alcohol will develop post-traumatic stress disorder in an addict.

Another connection between PTSD and substance abuse is PTSD medications. Indeed prescription drugs can help manage the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. However, one of the dangers of prescription drugs is that people living with PTSD often abuse them. For example, antidepressants such as Ativan and Xanax (Benzodiazepines) tend to create a high feeling. If someone suffering from PTSD takes too much of those, they are at risk for developing an addiction. 

Anchored Tides Recovery Can Help

Hope is not lost. Anchored Tides Recovery’s women’s drug rehab will help you live an addiction-free life. We are a comprehensive dual-diagnosis program created specifically for women who need help. 

We provide different levels of addiction treatment services including an Intensive Outpatient Program, Women’s Partial Hospitalization Program, Outpatient Program, and an aftercare program. If you or your loved one is struggling with PTSD, contact us NOW and begin your journey to full recovery.

 

Planning a Sober Girls Get Together

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planning a sober girls get together - three women laughing together

Socializing Sober

Socializing sober doesn’t mean missing out on fun. Sober gatherings offer a chance to create meaningful connections without the distraction of alcohol. Whether hosting a small sober girls get-together, going out with friends or a date, attending a workplace event, or participating in a larger event, there are countless ways to socialize and have a great time while staying true to your sobriety journey. Socializing and being around other people are crucial components of addiction recovery. It’s something you shouldn’t miss out on just because you no longer drink alcohol or use drugs.

What Are Some Sober Activities?

Choosing the right sober activities can be filled with laughter, humor, excitement, and memorable. Alcohol doesn’t always have to be involved. Below are some activities that encourage a focus on bonding and relaxing:

  • Movie night
  • A wellness retreat
  • Group yoga
  • Painting
  • Mocktail making
  • Cooking or baking
  • Gardening
  • Flower arrangement
  • Pottery class
  • Marathon
  • Volunteering
planning a sober girls get together - female friends doing yoga

How To Build A Sober Support System?

A sober get-together can be more than just a fun night—it’s also a powerful way to strengthen your sober support system. Surrounding yourself with friends, family, colleagues, and aquaintances who respect your recovery helps reinforce your commitment to sobriety. Whether you’re in early recovery or have been sober for years, having a solid support system in place is key to maintaining your progress.

Building a strong sober support system is crucial to maintaining sobriety and thriving in recovery. Your support system consists of the people, communities, and resources that encourage and help you stay on the path of sobriety. These connections provide emotional support, accountability, and guidance, making them an essential part of a successful and lasting recovery.

Here are a few tips to help you build and strengthen your sober support system:

Building a sober support system is about surrounding yourself with the right people, engaging in recovery communities, and being proactive about maintaining healthy relationships. Whether it’s through friends, family, professionals, or new connections made in recovery groups, having a solid support network is essential to maintaining sobriety and leading a fulfilling life in recovery.

Why Should Women Support Women in Sobriety?

Women supporting other women in sobriety is a beautiful thing, and something we focus on at Anchored Tides Recovery. Having a safe place where women can feel free is one of the keys to being happy and maintaining long term sobriety. 

It’s not uncommon for a woman before getting sober to feel distraught or uncomfortable, especially in social situations. A coping mechanism a lot of women use to ease these feelings is drinking alcohol or doing drugs. Now that you’re in recovery, or about to pursue a path to recovery, you may find yourself wondering “what will I do for fun now when I go out with friends?”. Please know you aren’t alone in this, and it should by no means be a reason to not quit drugs or alcohol.

In essence, no one knows what it feels like to be a sober woman except for other sober women. Having a group of people who understand your struggles and has been in your shoes, is incredibly therapeutic and encouraging. Never undervalue the power of a good ‘ole fashioned girl get together! And if you’re going to plan one, use these tips to plan a memorable party without risking your recovery!

Choose the Guest List for the Sober Event

Your guests can potentially make or break your get together. When making your guest list, make sure to invite women you feel safe around. They don’t necessarily have to be sober, they just have to understand that you’re sober and have boundaries. 

Make Plans for a Sober Saturday Night Activity

Planning a get-together can feel a bit stressful. As a host, you probably want to make sure you plan something that all of the guests will enjoy. An easy way to ensure everyone will be engaged is to place the sober event around an activity. This will also help encourage conversation amongst the guests, especially if they don’t know each other. 

One fun activity that almost everyone enjoys is bowling. It’s fun if you’re good at it, it’s still fun if you’re bad at it (a not so good bowler usually makes everyone laugh), and there’s always good fried food at a bowling alley.

Another fun activity is a game night. Most game nights these days don’t even require having the physical game, you just need a cell phone and reliable WiFi. Heads up is a great game because it moves quickly and requires the group splitting into two smaller groups. It also requires everyone to get up off the couch at one point. 

sober girls night out

Focus on the Food

Don’t want alcohol to be the focus? No problem! You can shift the focus from alcohol by making sure there is a tasty meal or snack when the girls get together. If you’re going to gather a large group, feel free to ask other people to bring some snacks. 

Have Fun! 

Most importantly, if you’re planning a social gathering, make sure you have fun. Your life isn’t over now that the “partying” has stopped. Your new sober life in recovery will be fulfilling and fun. Below are just some tips to follow when throwing a girls get-together without putting your sobriety at risk. 

Build Your Sober Support System at Anchored Tides Recovery

Anchored Tides Recovery is a female owned and female client based addiction treatment center, with rehab programs specifically designed for women by women. We also offer women dealing with alcohol addiction a safe haven.

Located in Orange County, CA, Anchored Tides is committed to providing you with a treatment experience that leads to lasting recovery. Contact us at 866-329-6639 to begin your journey to recovery!

Becoming a Sober Mom: The Recovery Guide

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Being a Sober Mom - mother enjoying time with her twin boys

Motherhood is one of life’s most rewarding yet challenging journeys. For moms navigating sobriety, the path can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a powerful opportunity to transform not only your life but your family’s future. Becoming a sober mom means finding strength in recovery, creating a supportive environment for your children, and learning how to thrive while balancing the responsibilities of motherhood.

Addiction Recovery for Mothers: A Unique Journey

Moms face unique challenges in recovery, from juggling parenting duties to managing societal pressures. These challenges can often leave little time for self-care or focus on personal well-being. That’s why addiction recovery for mothers should be approached with tailored strategies and resources.

Key considerations for mothers in recovery include:

  • Time Management: Balancing treatment, parenting, and work.
  • Emotional Support: Seeking safe spaces to share experiences with other moms in recovery.
  • Practical Resources: Access to childcare, financial planning, and sober parenting strategies.

If your recovery journey includes struggles with prescription drugs, explore our guide on mothers with a prescription drug addiction for insights into overcoming this specific challenge.

Support for Sober Mothers: You Are Not Alone

Maintaining sobriety while raising children requires a strong support network. There are many ways to find support for sober mothers, such as:

  • Joining Recovery Groups: Programs like AA or NA often have meetings specifically for mothers.
  • Therapy and Counseling: Individual or family therapy can help address underlying challenges.
  • Online Communities: Digital forums and social media groups provide connection and advice.

For mothers impacted by substance use, read about the impact of heroin addiction on mothers and children to learn how addiction can affect families and how to start rebuilding relationships.

Becoming a Sober Mom - mother sharing smiles with baby girl

Tips for Balancing Parenting and Recovery

Finding harmony between parenting and recovery is crucial for lasting success. Here are some practical tips:

  1. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with family and friends to protect your sobriety.
  2. Prioritize Self-Care: Schedule time for activities that recharge you mentally and physically.
  3. Lean on a Support Network: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from trusted friends, family, or a sponsor.

To explore gender-specific recovery options and how they cater to unique needs, visit differences in gender-specific treatment to see how tailored approaches can support mothers in recovery.

Anchored Tides Recovery holds a very special place in my heart. I have seen their work first hand with their clients and they do amazing things. To find a Women's Facility can be difficult but to find one that actually cares for their clients, goes above and beyond to help them and genuinely has the client's best interest in mind is sometimes impossible. I would recommend any female that is struggling with addiction in someway shape or form reach out to Anchored Tides. They do amazing work with trauma, mental health and substance use disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Balancing motherhood and sobriety requires time management, a strong support system, and prioritizing self-care. Programs designed for moms, like women’s recovery centers in Orange County, provide tools to help you manage responsibilities while staying focused on your recovery goals.Balancing motherhood and sobriety requires time management, a strong support system, and prioritizing self-care. Programs designed for moms, like women’s recovery centers in Orange County, provide tools to help you manage responsibilities while staying focused on your recovery goals.

Mothers in recovery can find support through local women-only rehab programs, therapy, and online communities. These resources often provide child-friendly options and peer support groups to meet the unique needs of moms.

Staying sober as a mom involves creating a relapse prevention plan, attending recovery meetings, and practicing mindfulness. Surround yourself with people who support your journey and understand your challenges.

Resources for Mothers in Addiction Recovery

  • Overcoming Challenges: Learn strategies to address common obstacles mothers face in sobriety.
  • Sober Living for Moms: Find sober living programs that accommodate families and offer holistic support.
  • Support Networks: Access tools to connect with other moms who are also navigating recovery.

For more insights into addiction recovery and how it affects women, check out our article on alcoholism, gender, and the rate of addiction in women for a closer look at the unique experiences women face in addiction.

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HUNTINGTON BEACH WOMEN REHABILITATION CENTER

HEALING WOMEN FROM DRUG & ALCOHOL ADDICTION, , MENTAL HEALTH, TRAUMA, AND EATING DISORDERS

The Dangers of Prescription Pills

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Drug Prescription pills had always been a threat to all – even before the recent opioid epidemic. Yes, they are safe for people who have prescriptions for them and take them as prescribed. However, prescriptions can easily be abused and pills also can be purchased illegally. This is extremely dangerous and can even be life threatening. Today, Anchored Tides Recovery would like to spend some time highlighting the dangers of prescription pills. 

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, NCDAS, 53 million Americans had a case of drug abuse in 2018. And of the lot, prescription pills accounted for a significant 30%. Now, you see that prescription pills misuse and abuse poses a lot of health risk to everyone. With that said, what are those risks?

Before we discuss the risks of misusing or abusing prescription pills, let’s talk about the “what” and “why.”

What Are Addictive Prescription Pills?

Ordinarily, prescription pills are not necessarily meant to be addictive. The common prescription drugs fall into three categories, namely:

  •  Opioids
  •  Depressants
  •  Stimulants

As the name suggests, these pills are prescribed to people with certain health conditions. And the three major health conditions include pains, anxiety disorders, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). 

Even to “the administered,” doctors only prescribe the drugs under strict conditions and often as a last resort because they are strong medications. 

Why Do People Misuse or Abuse Prescription Pills?

People abuse prescription pills for various reasons. Some do so for fun (to get high), and others may start to build a tolerance to their prescription, and need to take more to feel the same effects.

Others may abuse prescription pills in the bid to study better, lose weight, or keep fit. Whatever reason you have for misusing or abusing prescription medication, they all often face the same complications listed below:

Risks Associated With Prescription Pills Addiction

 

  • Loss of Memory

 

Memory loss is often associated with depressants. Depressants generally increase the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. And that explains why it treats anxiety.

However, high levels of GABA lower brain activity. In the event of depressant abuse, your brain will then stimulate more GABA. That would eventually result in memory loss and a lack of concentration.

What’s worse is that if you suddenly stop taking depressants after a long period of use, you might experience life-threatening withdrawal seizures.

 

  • Respiratory Complications

 

Opioids are responsible for respiratory challenges in prescription pills’ abusers. They can indeed help manage pain under a doctor’s supervision.

Nevertheless, at the slightest overdose, you can experience life-endangering breathing difficulties. It is even worse when you combine opioids with alcohol.

In addition to breathing problems, opioids deteriorate sleep patterns. Over time, your immune system suffers from your misuse or overdose of opioids.

 

  • Paranoia

 

Prescription medications generally affect the internal workings of the brain. Put simply; they disrupt how the brain cells send and receive information.

In particular, they (opioids and stimulants) affect the brain’s reward sequences. As such, you get high and joyous when you take. But when you don’t use these pills, you start showing paranoia tendencies.

Stimulants especially can make you paranoid, and short doses make abusers go aggressive and withdraw.

 

  • Organ Damage and Failure

 

Prescription pills can cause heart-related problems such as collapsed veins and eventual heart failure. For starters, the medications are strong. And for that reason, the heart starts experiencing abnormal heartbeat rates.

Another organ often affected by prescription medications are the liver and kidney. These pills often make your liver and kidney go on overdrive. In other words, the two organs require more work to digest the substances in opioids, particularly.

How Anchored Tides Recovery Can Help

In the end, whatever complications or risks you face for abusing any prescription drug, there is hope. It’s never too late to get help, and you don’t have to live a life abusing prescription pills. We can help you at Anchored Tides Recovery.

Our range of treatment services for women includes partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and other outpatient programs. Most importantly, we have some of the best guides to help you navigate your addiction! Trust us, and get help today!

Partial Hospitalization Programs: Who Are They For?

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If you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol and seeking treatment, you’re going to be faced with numerous options. Some you may have heard about before, and others can seem totally foreign. Addiction treatment is an investment (one you’re making in yourself), so it’s important to choose the right treatment for you. At Anchored Tides Recovery in Huntington Beach, California, we provide women with a safe environment to recover from addiction. One type of treatment we offer is called partial hospitalization. 

What Is a Partial Hospitalization Program?

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a type of intermediate addiction treatment option between inpatient and outpatient treatment. When attending PHP, you will come to our treatment facility daily and spend the day undergoing different addiction treatment therapies. At the end of the day, you return home and are free to do whatever you please in the evening. 

This type of addiction treatment can be completed after you complete inpatient treatment or as a stand-alone treatment. It’s a great option if you want to participate in intensive addiction therapy but can’t remove yourself from society for 30 or more days. 

Our partial hospitalization program at Anchored Tides Recovery includes a variety of therapies: 

  • Individual therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • Adventure based therapy
  • Mindfulness & meditation
  • Trauma resiliency
  • Relapse prevention

Benefits of Partial Hospitalization Programs

There are many benefits to completing a partial hospitalization program for addiction treatment, one of the biggest being you don’t have to remove yourself from ‘normal life’ to receive treatment. A lot of recovering addicts find it helpful to completely go off the grid for a period of time in the beginning of their sobriety so they can focus solely on recovery. The downside is that it can sometimes be challenging to remerge into society. A partial hospitalization program offers the best of both worlds; our clients can spend their days focusing on sobriety 100%, and return to their life when the day ends. If you have pets, you’ll be able to tend to them in the evening, or even take night classes at a college and continue your education. While you’re getting sober, you will learn how to integrate sobriety into your everyday life. 

Partial hospitalization can also be used as a transitional tool for recovering addicts leaving inpatient treatment. Like we mentioned before, it can be difficult to go back to ‘everyday life’ after leaving inpatient treatment. By attending a PHP, you can slowly start to rebuild your life , like securing a safe place to live, or returning home to the place you lived before treatment. You’ll be able to spend your days working on your recovery and spend the evenings tending to personal needs, like cooking for yourself or going to the gym. 

Another benefit to partial hospitalization is it’s less costly than inpatient treatment. Because you live and receive treatment at an inpatient treatment facility, and eat all of your meals there, it tends to be the most expensive addiction treatment option. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we work with a number of insurance providers and also offer financing options to our clients. We want addiction treatment to be as accessible as possible for all women, and don’t want anyone to feel like they can’t get the help they deserve because they can’t afford it. 

Call Us Today

If you’re in the process of seeking addiction treatment for yourself or a loved one, congratulations for taking the necessary first step to a better life. A partial hospitalization program is for you if you’re looking to start your recovery journey, or completed inpatient treatment and are looking to continue treatment. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we provide addiction treatment for women and are a women ran facility. We offer partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient treatment programs. Reach out to us for more information regarding our programs! 

Outpatient Treatment: How It Leads To Long Term Success

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Outpatient Addiction is a multifaceted problem that affects all kinds of people from all walks of life. It stands to reason that addiction treatment should not be a “one size fits all” solution, yet the sad truth is that many rehabilitation programs remain generalized and outdated. In fact, many follow treatments designed for men, despite modern research that shows women face unique sets of challenges when it comes to addiction

That’s why we are a women-specific treatment center at Anchored Tides Recovery, with a focus on individual needs and long-term recovery. We also realize that many women feel the need to delay treatment because of busy everyday lives and feelings of obligation towards others. 

Sound familiar? It’s time to get the treatment you deserve and give yourself a new lease on life. And because we offer outpatient addiction treatment at Anchored Tides, you can retain some schedule flexibility and return home each night. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Outpatient Addiction Treatment?

Whereas inpatient treatment is more traditional and involves actually being admitted to a facility under 24/7 medical supervision, outpatient is a more modern style of treatment that allows for some flexibility and goes far beyond just the detox process

While the exact experience varies for everyone, the outpatient program generally involves highly focused treatment during the day, after which you are allowed to return home each day with guidance on how to continue working towards sobriety. 

There are a naturally a lot of benefits to this arrangement, specifically:

  • Recovering addicts can maintain their basic everyday routines and keep up with responsibilities
  • In many cases, the ability to go to work and not have to forfeit a job
  • Medical care only as needed, not necessarily required 24/7
  • Ability to build a support network with friends and family much earlier on
  • Family and friends are actively able to witness the patient making progress
  • Ability to engage in community activities and hobbies — keep living life! 
  • Greater personal responsibility helps keeps patients dedicated to becoming sober and actively learning coping skills
  • No grand re-entry into the “real world”, meaning no shock or dramatic adjustment period following treatment
  • More affordable costs than most inpatient programs, thanks to fewer hours of onsite treatment and medical care

At Anchored Tides, we firmly believe in outpatient care and how allowing patients to spend time at home contributes to their successful treatment. And because different people require different levels of care, we offer three types of outpatient programs of varying degrees: Outpatient Program (OP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). Those with more severe addiction problems may require PHP for closer medical monitoring during detox, while others may do well under the programs with lower medical intensity aspects. 

How Outpatient Treatment Paves the Way for a Lifetime of Sobriety

With outpatient treatment, one of the greatest benefits of all is the ability to actively make changes in everyday life. With inpatient care, the “real world” comes later, after detox and early counseling have been achieved. But because outpatient participants have their treatment worked into their everyday schedules, they are allowed to continue living their lives in the real world and make more steady, gradual changes each day. Though this means treatment is usually spread over a much longer period of time, it also means that long-term recovery is more feasible. 

And rest assured; when you’re a patient at Anchored Tides, we do not just cut off ties once your treatment program reaches its planned completion. In addition to running outpatient treatment, our team at Anchored Tides practices long-term recovery monitoring for our patients. This means regular follow-ups and wellness check-ins, as well as encouragement for you to stay involved with counseling groups. We help you stay accountable to yourself now and well into the future. 

We’re Here to Help

When you’re suffering from addiction, it’s so important to realize that you’re not alone. Nearly 20 million women engage in substance abuse every year in America, and many suffer from addiction for years. In addition to the numerous health risks, addiction leads to strained relationships, derailed careers, and ruined dreams. The time to get help is now. To learn more about your outpatient treatment options, reach out to us at Anchored Tides Recovery today. 

How To Build A Support System in Early Sobriety

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Struggling with addiction takes a toll not just on ourselves, but also on the people we care about. But overcoming any form of drug abuse is easier said than done, and this is especially true for women. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that women, on average, often face greater difficulties due to both biological differences and harsher societal expectations. And despite nearly 20 million women using illicit substances in the past year alone, many addiction treatment programs remain designed and geared towards, men. This is why our team at Anchored Tides Recovery focuses on women and what it takes to achieve long-term recovery.

Now, many people assume that once you get through withdrawal, addiction recovery is a piece of cake. But the truth is that it is only the beginning. True addiction recovery means making active decisions each day to stay sober and find happiness in everyday life. While there are a lot of different things that will help with these decisions (pursuing hobbies, working out, etc.), the real key is building a strong support system early on. 

Why a Support System is Important

Very few of us can make big life achievements all on our own. And yes, getting sober is a major achievement. With the right people surrounding you and supporting you throughout your recovery, you’ll be better able to make the right decisions. Everyone’s situation is different, and support systems can consist of a variety of people: family members, friends, counselors, mentors, etc. For many people in early sobriety, it is a good idea to surround yourself with a blend of people from these areas to get different perspectives and support from all areas of life. Specifically, a strong support system helps you in the following ways: 

  • They give you an outlet to voice your frustrations and feelings.
  • They provide a real-world perspective and can help remind you why sobriety is good (healthy peer pressure). 
  • They show that a sober, healthy life is within reach.
  • They can help expand your social circle with other healthy-minded individuals. 
  • They can introduce you to healthy, enjoyable hobbies.
  • They help remind you that you are an important, well-liked person with value to others.

Above all, building a strong support system keeps you accountable to others rather than just yourself. You’re not deciding to stay sober just because of yourself now; you’re also doing it for the important people in your life. 

Choosing the Right People

Now that you know how important having a good support system is, how do you go about surrounding yourself with the right people? To start, you should only be around people who are sober and/or who have already made great strides in fighting their own addiction problems and are acutely focused on sobriety. Especially in early sobriety, it is not a good idea to continue associating with people who are not supportive of you discontinuing drug abuse or who even enabled it. It is all too easy sometimes to slip and relapse, but the right people will do what they can to help you make the right decisions. In the event that you do relapse, the right people are the ones who will help you get back up and into treatment. 

As mentioned earlier, support systems often consist of different kinds of people who are meaningful in your life. For many, it starts with the people in their addiction treatment program. Your rehabilitation staff will serve as some of your earliest supporters, helping see you through the early stages and on to long-term recovery. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of all the resources your treatment program has to offer! There will be many opportunities for you to meet other like-minded individuals and strong people you can relate to. 

That said, while it is important to continue therapy and have the support of a counselor, it is also important to be able to develop a healthy social life with family and friends. Working individuals may even confide in a trusted employer or coworker about their efforts and their intent to stay sober, thus expanding their support system even further. 

Consider Group Therapy

One of the best ways you can build up your support system early on in addiction recovery is by participating in group therapy. This is also another case where you can utilize the resources available to you through your addiction program and find a group that you feel comfortable with. Giving you an outlet with people who know exactly what you’re going through, group therapy has been shown to be highly effective for all kinds of people. It’s also worth noting that groups can help keep you even more accountable than others in your life can, as they can relate to your temptations and will recognize any excuses you may make. In fact, many people continue group therapy long into sobriety because of the support they feel and the meaningful connections that are made.

We Can Help You Find the Support You Need!

Looking for the help you need to overcome drug addiction once and for all? We’re here for you. Anchored Tides Recovery is a comprehensive addiction treatment program designed specifically for women, by women. Our various levels of outpatient and partial-hospitalization services are designed to help you beat drug abuse without having to give up everyday life and the things that make you “you”. In addition to the initial stages of treatment that will help you overcome physical dependency, we focus on long-term recovery monitoring.

Our team of caring professionals will also help form part of your support system, and we will help you strengthen your relationships elsewhere. With the right team behind you, long-term sobriety is within reach!  Contact us today!

The Benefits of a Female Only Treatment Facility for Addiction

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Finding the right addiction treatment for you can be overwhelming. A simple google search can present you with what feels like an endless amount of treatment options. Treatment should be a safe place where you can get honest with yourself and others, be vulnerable, and develop relationships with other sober people.

Addiction manifests in many forms and affects people differently. Addiction can also impact men and women differently. If you’re a woman and looking to get sober, a female-only treatment facility could be a great option for you. At Anchored Tides Recovery, located in Orange County, CA, we’re a female ran and female-only treatment center. It’s safe to say we totally understand women and recovery. 

What is a Women-Only Addiction Treatment Facility?

A women’s only addiction treatment facility is exactly what it sounds like. This is a facility that has been designed specifically to help women who suffer from addiction. During the 1970s and 80s, it came to light that addiction research was historically done on men, therefore the foundation of treatment was ill-equipped for women. As a response to this, research began on the differences between men and women when it comes to addiction. Studies show that:

  • Addiction progresses faster and can be more severe in women
  • Problems related to addiction interfere with functioning in more areas of life than men’s do
  • Are more likely to encounter health-related issues from addiction

After information on how addiction affects genders differently became available, women-only treatment started to form and flourish.

Benefits of a Women-Only Facility

There are numerous benefits to attending a women-only treatment center for addiction.

It’s Easier to Open Up

One of the most important aspects of addiction treatment is opening up to others. People need to be able to share their experiences regarding how addiction has impacted them while also learning from the experiences of others. Women might feel hesitant to open up regarding how addiction has impacted them with other men in the room. In many cases, drug abuse and addiction are going to impact other aspects of someone’s life, including their sexual health. It’s not uncommon for women to have negative sexual experiences during their addiction. It’s important for women to share these experiences in order to cope. 

Find Common Ground

When women enter a treatment facility that is designed for both genders, they might feel like they don’t have a lot in common with the other people in the facility. This can make it hard for someone to come to terms with addiction and rehab. If the treatment center focuses on women, the clients are going to be able to learn from the similarities of others. They are going to feel like they aren’t alone during treatment. Women’s only treatment also sets the foundation for creating a strong sober network. As a woman, it’s important to have support from other women, during and after treatment. 

All Women Staff

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we have an all-female staff. We feel the best way to run a female treatment center is to have females running it. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, safe space for women to start their recovery journey. Our female staff understands what you’ve been through while battling addiction and is dedicated to giving you all the tools you need to overcome this horrible disease. We will help you with your addiction and any comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma caused by negative sexual experiences or domestic violence, PTSD, and more. 

We Support Women

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we are a comprehensive, dual-diagnosis enhanced program designed specifically for women, by women. Our program offers numerous levels of outpatient services including a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), a traditional Outpatient Program (OP), and long-term recovery monitoring. We are here to help women overcome addiction and mental health disorders. If you would like to learn more about how our program can help you and your family members recover from addiction, please contact us today!

Why You Should Travel to Huntington Beach for Addiction Treatment

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When someone is suffering from addiction, it’s important to seek help as quickly as possible. The sooner people ask for help from trained professionals, the faster they can get on the road to addiction recovery. Because there is a sense of urgency associated with seeking treatment, it’s common for people to look for treatment programs close to home. At first, this may seem to make sense because home is familiar and comfortable, but upon further evaluation, it actually makes more sense to travel for treatment. It’s important to leave the toxic environment that led to your addiction in the first place.

What Are the Benefits of Traveling for Addiction Treatment?

There are a lot of benefits to traveling for addiction treatment. Traveling to Orange County is a chance for someone to start a new life. It’s critical to break the normal routine that allowed addiction to take hold in order to seek recovery. In a new environment,  people will be able to look inward and learn more about themselves. They’ll have the chance to close the book on a destructive period in their life.

We feel by escaping the old, destructive environment, someone can leave behind bad routines, bad relationships, and the other consequences caused by substance abuse. It’s important to be able to reflect on the habits that were built that led to addiction. The best way to do this is by separating yourself from your old environment. Go on a journey of self-discovery by seeking treatment in a new place.

Reasons to Seek Addiction Treatment in Huntington Beach

There are going to be more opportunities for people to seek help from specialists in Orange County. Everyone’s addiction is different. Not only are people addicted to different substances but their reasons and circumstances for using are different as well. Therefore, people need to have the ability to seek help from specialists who have seen similar cases in the past. When people travel to Huntington Beach, they will have access to experienced professionals who can help them break free.

Huntington Beach is home to gorgeous weather. Unlike other parts of the country, Southern California is pleasant all year round. The sun is always shining and there’s zero humidity. This can help people cope with some of the challenges that are going to come up with addiction treatment such as withdrawal and depression. Do not underestimate the power of fresh air and sunshine. 

There’s also access to the beach here in Huntington Beach. It’s fantastic and recommended to incorporate physical activity into the process of addiction treatment. Hiking, swimming, running, etc, are all great activities to clear someone’s head. There is something very therapeutic about spending time outdoors and connecting with nature. Nature also has a way of focusing on one’s priorities. People who come to this area love taking advantage of the beach and it’s healing components.

The biggest benefit of traveling to Southern California by far is that people can prioritize themselves instead of their addictions. There is so much room for exploring in a new area. Once you are in a sober state of mind you’ll probably realize there are a lot of things you’d like to start doing. Huntington Beach is the perfect place to rediscover yourself, new hobbies, and what makes you truly happy. 

Let Us Help You with Your Recovery!

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we are a comprehensive dual-diagnosis enhanced program that has been created specifically for women, by women. We provide a wide variety of outpatient services including a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), a traditional Outpatient Program (OP), as well as long-term recovery monitoring. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you find recovery in Orange County, then please contact us today! 

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Awareness and Prevention

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Policy Update 

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Awareness and Prevention

Policies & Procedures

 

Policy: It is the Policy of Anchored Tides Recovery to identify risks as the CDC and WHO has identified COVID-19 as a pandemic, and expectations of the Coronavirus spreading throughout the United States. As a preemptive measure, Anchored Tides Recovery follows guidelines of the CDC and develops measures to properly look at risks associated with any pandemic situation. 

Procedure: As of March 12th, 2020, All Prescreening will include questions regarding travel to China, Asia, and Europe, flu-like symptoms and if the individual has come in contact with anyone who has COVID-19. These individuals will be monitored and referred out if flu-like symptoms occur. Anchored Tides Recovery will train staff on proper handwashing and prevention methods to prepare for potential issues if the virus is to spread. This will go into effect until the CDC declares COVID-19 as no longer a threat to the American public. 

 

The Following Questions have been added to the pre-screening assessment

  1. Have you traveled to Asia or Europe since the winter of 2019?
    1. If yes, what countries or parts of countries have you visited?
  2. Have you or any family members been exposed to Coronavirus?
  3. Are you at risk for exposure to coronavirus?
  4. Are you experiencing shortness of breath, coughing, fever, or other symptoms of Coronavirus and/or the flu?
    1. If Yes, have you been tested for the Coronavirus or are you willing to be tested?

If anyone is experiencing these symptoms and/or has traveled the staff will have the client reviewed by a healthcare provider to check for COVID-19 prior to admission. These results will be documented in the client file and will be accessible to staff to review.

At this time, all visitors to the facility will be canceled until further notice unless deemed absolutely necessary. Visitors if necessary, will be asked about recent exposure to COVID-19 and any health risks they may have. 

Patient safety is highly important of which the following posters will be placed at the front of the office:  

  • http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/docs/CoronaTravelEnglish.pdf  
  • https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/COVID-19/COVID19-ProtectYourselfandOthers.pdf

Anchored Tides Recovery has identified another risk area in our direct and indirect care staff, at this time the executive team has enabled an emergency preparedness plan to ensure those who are sick will have paid sick leave and an email will go to all staff regarding changes to company policy on sick leave to further help the containment of COVID-19.

  • all staff will receive information and training on COVID-19 as well as preventative and containment measures, they can consider. 
  • Employees who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness are recommended to stay home and not come to work until they are free of fever (100.4° F [37.8° C] or greater using an oral thermometer), signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants). Employees should notify their supervisor and stay home if they are sick.
  • Employees who are well but who have a sick family member at home with COVID-19 should notify their supervisor

All executive-level employees should be reviewing the CDC website frequently at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

 

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