Category: Mental Health

Journaling in Recovery: Does it Help?

If you’re on the path to recovery from addiction or mental health challenges, you may have heard about the therapeutic benefits of journaling. Journaling is more than just putting pen to paper; it can be a powerful tool that enhances your healing process. In this article, we’ll explore journaling and how it can be a valuable asset on your recovery journey.

Why Journaling Matters in Recovery

Recovery is a unique and deeply personal journey, and journaling can be a game-changer for many women. Here’s why:

Self-Reflection: Journaling provides a safe space for self-reflection, helping you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Emotional Release: Writing down your feelings can be cathartic, allowing you to release pent-up emotions and reduce stress.
Accountability: Keeping a journal can help you track your progress, set goals, and hold yourself accountable for your actions.
Identifying Triggers: By recording your experiences, you can identify triggers and patterns that may contribute to your addiction or mental health challenges.

Getting Started with Journaling

Now that you understand the significance of journaling, here are some practical tips to get you started:

Choose a Journal: Find a journal that speaks to you. It could be a simple notebook or a beautifully designed diary.
Set Aside Time: Dedicate a specific time each day to journal. It could be in the morning, during breaks, or before bedtime.
Write Freely: Don’t worry about grammar or structure. Write freely and let your thoughts flow.
Explore Different Styles: Experiment with various journaling styles, such as gratitude journaling, stream of consciousness, or creative writing.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Journaling

Journaling goes beyond pen and paper; it can significantly impact your recovery:

Stress Reduction: Expressing your feelings on paper can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Improved Mental Health: Studies have shown that journaling can enhance mental well-being, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Enhanced Self-Awareness: Journaling helps you become more self-aware, leading to healthier decision-making.
Healthy Coping Mechanism: It provides a healthy outlet for processing difficult emotions, preventing relapse.

Your Journaling Journey at Anchored Tides Recovery

At Anchored Tides Recovery in Huntington Beach, CA, we understand the vital role journaling plays in women’s recovery. Our program is designed specifically for women, by women, and we embrace journaling as a therapeutic tool to empower our clients. Our supportive environment and expert guidance ensure you get the most out of your journaling journey.

Start Your Healing Journey with Anchored Tides Recovery Today!

Are you ready to harness the power of journaling in your recovery journey? At Anchored Tides Recovery, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive dual-diagnosis enhanced rehab program designed specifically for women, by women, in Huntington Beach, CA.

FAQs

Can anyone benefit from journaling in their recovery journey?

Absolutely! Journaling is a versatile tool that can benefit individuals in various stages of recovery.

Do I need to be a skilled writer to start journaling?

Not at all. Journaling is about self-expression, not perfection. You don’t need to be a skilled writer to experience its benefits.

How can I stay motivated to journal regularly?

Setting a routine, finding a comfortable space, and choosing topics that resonate with you can help maintain your journaling habit.

Are there specific journaling techniques recommended for recovery?

Different techniques, such as gratitude journaling, mindfulness journaling, and expressive writing, can be effective. Experiment to find what works best for you.

Can journaling replace therapy or counseling in recovery?

Journaling can be a valuable complement to therapy and counseling, but it is not a substitute for professional help when needed. It can enhance your healing process when used alongside therapeutic support.

Overcoming Shame and Guilt: 4 Strategic Tips

overcoming shame and guilt - female working professional ashamed at her desk

Navigating the complex world of emotions is never easy, especially when it comes to feelings of shame and guilt. If you’re seeking clarity and understanding about these feelings, you’ve come to the right place. Anchored Tides Recovery is committed to helping you understand and overcome the overwhelming sensations of guilt and shame, leading you toward a life of healing and recovery.

Understanding Guilt and Shame in Recovery

Before we delve into overcoming these feelings, it’s essential to understand what they are:

Guilt: a feeling of having committed a wrong or failed obligation. After detoxification of substance, past events and actions begin to surface, and the feeling of wrongdoing that has impacted your family and friends.
Shame: a painful feeling of humiliation or distress, often arising from the consciousness of something you’ve done wrong or a perceived inadequacy. Negative thoughts begin to occupy your mental space and decrease your self worth.

When navigating the path of recovery, especially from addiction, these feelings can become magnified. Yet, understanding is the first step to healing.

Addressing Guilt and Shame is Crucial

Mental Health: Continuous feelings of shame and guilt can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. Addressing them head-on is critical for overall well-being.
Personal Growth: Confronting and working through these emotions enables personal development and fosters resilience.
Successful Recovery: For many on the recovery path, unresolved feelings can be a relapse trigger. By overcoming them, you bolster your chances of a successful and lasting recovery.

How Anchored Tides Recovery Can Help

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we understand the intricate relationship between shame, guilt, and recovery. Our programs are designed to not just address addiction, but also the emotional challenges that come with it. With a comprehensive approach, we provide:

Therapeutic Sessions: Tailored to address individual needs, helping you understand and work through feelings of shame and guilt.
Supportive Community: Surround yourself with individuals who understand your journey and can offer guidance and support.
Resources: From workshops to reading materials, gain access to tools that can aid in your healing journey.

DON'T WAIT ANY LONGER...

BEGIN YOUR RECOVERY TODAY.

4 Strategies to Overcome Shame and Guilt

If you’re grappling with these emotions, here are some strategies to consider:

Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Everyone makes mistakes. It’s about how we learn and grow from them.
Speak About Your Feelings: Sharing can be healing. Talk to someone you trust or consider seeking professional help.
Forgiveness: Whether it’s forgiving yourself or others, letting go of past wrongs can be liberating.
Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help you stay present, reduce anxiety, and gain clarity.

Understanding the Designation

Many might wonder what makes Anchored Tides Recovery different. The distinction lies in our commitment to holistic care. We believe in addressing the root causes, not just the symptoms, ensuring a comprehensive recovery journey. Overcoming shame and guilt is not a journey you have to embark on alone. With the right tools, resources, and support, healing is within reach. Anchored Tides Recovery is here to walk with you every step of the way, ensuring a brighter, guilt-free future ahead.

FAQ's

What's the Difference Between Shame and Guilt?

Shame refers to the painful feeling arising from a perception of inadequacy or wrongdoing, often linked to one’s identity.
Guilt is a feeling of responsibility for a specific act of wrongdoing, usually tied to a particular event rather than one’s character.

How Can Therapy Help Me Overcome Shame and Guilt?

Therapy can offer a safe space for you to explore these complex emotions, understand their root causes, and develop strategies to cope with them effectively.

Is It Normal to Feel Shame and Guilt During Recovery?

Absolutely. Many individuals in the process of recovery experience heightened feelings of shame and guilt. Addressing these feelings is a crucial aspect of the recovery journey.

What Kinds of Therapeutic Sessions Do You Offer?

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we offer individual therapy, group sessions, and specialized workshops that focus on emotional well-being, including addressing shame and guilt.

What If I Relapse Because of These Feelings?

Relapse is often a part of the recovery journey. The key is to not let it define you. Learn from the experience and seek immediate help to get back on track.

OUR SERVICES IN ORANGE COUNTY

Women's Addiction Treatment Center

Anchored Tides Recovery - Eating Disorder Program Treatment

Eating Disorder Treatment

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Outpatient & Aftercare Program (OP)

Addiction Recovery: The Importance of Sharing Your Story

The Power of Your Story

At Anchored Tides Recovery we encourage empowerment and healing on your path to recovery. One of the most potent tools in your recovery journey is sharing your story about addiction recovery. Today, we’ll explore why this can be transformative not just for you, but for others as well.

Why Sharing Your Story Matters

The struggle with addiction is often shrouded in shame and secrecy, making it challenging for many to speak openly. However, sharing your story breaks down these barriers, offering several benefits:

Eradicates Stigma: Open conversations can help dispel the myths surrounding addiction.
Inspires Others: Your story could be the push someone needs to seek help.
Promotes Healing: Vocalizing your experience can offer emotional relief and even speed up your healing process.

How Sharing Impacts You Personally

The act of sharing isn’t just for the listener; it’s also a powerful tool for the storyteller. Here’s how it benefits you:

Accountability: Saying it out loud makes your journey more real and holds you accountable.
Reflection: Talking about your experiences provides a new perspective and may reveal insights you hadn’t considered.
Community: Sharing often invites others to do the same, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

Ways to Share Your Story Safely

While sharing is beneficial, it’s important to do it in a way that’s comfortable for you. Some methods include:

One-on-One Conversations: With close family or friends.
Support Groups: Like the ones offered at Anchored Tides Recovery.
Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or dedicated recovery forums can offer anonymity if preferred.
Writing: A blog or an article can also be therapeutic and far-reaching.

The Designation and Its Importance

The term “addict” is often seen in a negative light. However, at Anchored Tides Recovery, we understand that this designation doesn’t define you. It’s a part of your past, not your future. Sharing your story as someone who has struggled with addiction offers you a unique position to effect meaningful change.

Your Story Is Your Strength

The importance of sharing your story about addiction recovery cannot be overstated. It’s a bold step toward personal growth and offers a lifeline to others who are facing similar challenges. You’re never alone in this journey, and your story is a testament to your strength and resilience. Let’s break the cycle of silence and stigma together.

For more guidance on how to share your story or to find a supportive community, reach out to us at Anchored Tides Recovery. We’re here to listen and help. Founded by women, for women.

FAQ’s

1. Is it Necessary to Share My Story Publicly?

No, sharing your story is a personal choice and can be done in various settings that you are comfortable with—be it privately with a trusted friend or family member, in a support group, or even anonymously online.

2. Will Sharing My Story Trigger Relapse?

While sharing can be therapeutic, it can also stir up emotions. It’s important to evaluate your emotional state and consult with your healthcare provider or counselor before deciding to share your story.

3. What Should I Include in My Story?

The details you choose to include are entirely up to you. Some people discuss the challenges they faced, the turning points in their journey, and the successes they’ve achieved. Others focus on what they’ve learned and how they’ve grown.

4. How Does Anchored Tides Recovery Support the Sharing of Stories?

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we offer a supportive environment where sharing is encouraged but not mandatory. We provide group therapies and one-on-one counseling sessions where you can choose to share your story as part of your recovery process.

Meditation for Stress Reduction: A Vital Tool for Addiction Recovery

Our team at Anchored Tides Recovery takes pride in being your trusted source for addiction recovery support. If you’re embarking on a recovery journey or looking to find balance in your life, one of the most effective techniques you can embrace is meditation for stress reduction. Let’s dive into why this practice is essential and how to get started.

The Importance of Stress Reduction in Addiction Recovery

When it comes to addiction recovery, managing stress is a critical component. Stress can be a significant trigger for substance abuse, so learning how to manage it effectively is vital. Meditation offers a reliable, healthy way to cope, offering benefits like:

Improved focus
Better emotional regulation
Enhanced self-awareness
Lower levels of stress hormones

What is Meditation for Stress Reduction?

Meditation for stress reduction involves focusing your mind and eliminating the jumbled thoughts that may be causing your stress or anxiety. Methods can range from Mindfulness Meditation to Transcendental Meditation and more. The primary aim is to quiet your mind, which in turn, calms your body.

Getting Started: Simple Techniques

Starting a meditation practice is easier than you think. Here are some beginner-friendly methods to get you started:

Breathing Meditation: Simply focus on your breath. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Pay attention to the rise and fall of your chest.
Guided Meditation: Use an app or online resource to follow along with a guided session.
Mantra Meditation: Choose a positive phrase or affirmation and repeat it either out loud or in your mind.
Walking Meditation: Take a walk in a quiet place and focus on each step, allowing your other thoughts to fall away.

The Science Behind Meditation and Stress Reduction

Research shows that meditation can trigger the body’s relaxation response, a state of deep rest that counteracts stress. Meditation techniques can:

Increase dopamine levels
Reduce cortisol (the stress hormone)
Lower blood pressure and heart rate

Special Designation: Understanding the Term ‘Addict’

The term ‘addict‘ often carries a negative connotation. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we choose to see the person behind the label, understanding that addiction is a complex issue that can be managed and treated. Our meditation for stress reduction methods are designed to be inclusive, catering to each individual’s unique needs in the recovery process.

Make Meditation Part of Your Recovery Strategy

Meditation for stress reduction is more than just a relaxation technique; it’s an essential tool for anyone serious about long-term recovery. We encourage you to incorporate it into your self-care routine. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

If you’d like more detailed guidance or personalized support, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

FAQ’s

1. What Types of Meditation Are Best for Stress Reduction?

Different types of meditation suit different people, but popular methods for stress reduction include Mindfulness Meditation, Transcendental Meditation, and Guided Meditation. These techniques are designed to help you focus your thoughts and achieve a state of mental clarity and calm.

2. How Long Should I Meditate for Stress Reduction?

The length of your meditation session can vary depending on your comfort and experience level. Beginners might start with just 5-10 minutes per day. As you become more comfortable with the practice, you can extend your sessions to 20 minutes or more for enhanced benefits.

3. Can Meditation Replace Traditional Addiction Treatments?

While meditation for stress reduction is a valuable tool in the recovery toolkit, it’s not a substitute for comprehensive addiction treatment. It should be used in conjunction with other therapies and treatments. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we offer a holistic approach that includes medical treatments, counseling, and other therapies in addition to meditation.

4. Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of Meditation?

Meditation is generally considered safe for most people and has no known harmful side effects. However, some individuals may experience increased anxiety or intrusive thoughts during meditation. If this occurs, it’s advisable to stop the practice and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Easy Self-Care and Self-Love Tips for an Addict

At Anchored Tides Recovery, we understand that addiction recovery is a challenging journey. Self-care and self-love are fundamental tools in building a resilient recovery path. If you or a loved one is battling addiction, incorporating these self-care and self-love tips can pave the way to a healthier, happier life.

Why Self-care and Self-Love are Essential for Recovery:

Recovery isn’t just about avoiding substances; it’s about rebuilding and nurturing yourself from the inside out. Embracing self-care and self-love can:

Improve mental and emotional well-being.
Reduce chances of relapse.
Enhance self-awareness and mindfulness.
Strengthen personal relationships and boundaries.

Self-Care Tips for an Addict

Routine Building: Stick to a daily routine, ensuring you have time for activities that make you feel good.
Physical Health: Engage in regular exercise, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice grounding techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation.
Join Support Groups: Being a part of a community, like the one at Anchored Tides Recovery, offers emotional support and understanding.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water is crucial for maintaining physical health and mental clarity.

Practices for Fostering Self-Love:

Positive Affirmations: Start each day by looking in the mirror and stating something you love about yourself.
Journaling: Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and achievements can help you recognize and celebrate your progress.
Forgive Yourself: Remember, everyone makes mistakes. What’s essential is learning from them and moving forward.
Seek Professional Help: Therapy or counseling can offer tools and insights that support your self-love journey.

Special Designation:

The term “addict” is often laden with stigma. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we see beyond the designation. An addict is someone seeking healing, understanding, and love. By addressing the reader directly, we aim to connect on a personal level, emphasizing that everyone deserves love, care, and understanding, especially during challenging times.

Self-care and self-love are more than buzzwords. They’re lifelines in the journey of recovery. Embrace them, practice them, and let them guide you toward a brighter, substance-free future. Remember, at Anchored Tides Recovery, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

FAQ’s

1. What is Self-Care and How Does It Differ From Self-Love?

Self-care involves taking actions to maintain or improve your well-being, particularly during times of stress or adversity. It encompasses physical, emotional, and mental health. Self-love, on the other hand, is a mindset that entails appreciating and accepting yourself, flaws, and all. While self-care is a practice, self-love is a belief.

2. Why Are Self-Care and Self-Love Important in Addiction Recovery?

Both self-care and self-love are crucial because they equip you with the mental and emotional strength needed for recovery. They help you manage stress, reduce the chances of relapse, and improve overall well-being.

3. How Can I Incorporate Self-Care Into My Busy Schedule?

Start small. Even a 10-minute walk, a brief meditation session, or a quick journal entry can be impactful. As you build the habit, you’ll find it easier to make time for more extended self-care activities.

4. Is Professional Help Necessary for Practicing Self-Care and Self-Love?

While you can certainly start the journey of self-care and self-love on your own, professional guidance can offer valuable insights and coping skills tailored to your needs. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we offer various therapies and support groups that focus on self-care and self-love as integral parts of recovery.

5. What Resources Are Available at Anchored Tides Recovery for Self-Care and Self-Love?

We offer a holistic approach to recovery, including therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and support groups that help you cultivate self-care and self-love as you journey toward recovery.

6. Can I Practice Self-Care and Self-Love While Still Using?

The journey towards recovery often starts with small steps. Practicing self-care and self-love while still using can be a beginning. However, it’s essential to seek professional help for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Fun Sober Nights with Friends: Celebrate Life Beyond Alcohol

girl holding her surfboard on the beach during sunset

Hello, dear readers of Anchored Tides Recovery! There’s a common misconception that fun can’t be had without the inclusion of alcohol or other substances. But in reality, there’s a world of enjoyment to be found in sober activities. Let’s dive into some creative and memorable ways to have a blast on those sober nights out with friends.

The Allure of Sober Nights

If you’re on a journey of recovery or simply choosing to abstain from alcohol, you might be wondering, how do I fill my nights with fun and connection? The truth is, sober nights can be even more rewarding than those blurred by alcohol. They allow for:

Genuine Connections: Without the haze of alcohol and other substances, conversations tend to be more meaningful.
Clear Memories: Remember every hilarious joke and heartfelt moment.
No Hangovers: Wake up feeling refreshed and proud of your choices.

Ideas for Sober Night Fun

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some fantastic, alcohol-free activities to consider:

Game Night: Bring out the board games, card games, or even video games. Nothing beats the fun of a friendly competition.
Theme Parties: Choose a theme (80s, masquerade, or pajama party) and dress up accordingly.
Outdoor Adventures: From night hikes to beach bonfires, nature offers an array of sober fun.
Cooking or Baking Nights: Whip up some delicious treats or meals together.
Karaoke: Belt out your favorite tunes with friends – no alcohol is needed for this kind of fun!
Arts & Crafts Night: Dive into DIY projects or paint a collective mural.
Movie Marathons: Pick a series or genre and binge-watch together.

The Power of Designation

One concept worth noting in our exploration of sober nights is the designation. When you hear the term “designated driver,” it’s usually someone who abstains from drinking to drive others home safely. But in our context, we can broaden the term: be a Designated Fun Planner. This person is in charge of ensuring that the group has a variety of entertaining, sober activities lined up. By rotating this role among friends, everyone gets a turn to introduce the group to new experiences.

Crafting a New Narrative

Our society often equates fun with alcohol consumption. However, sober nights with friends offer a chance to redefine what fun truly means. At Anchored Tides Recovery, we believe in celebrating life in its purest form. Here’s a challenge for you: the next time you’re planning an evening with friends, consider an alcohol-free agenda. Discover the joy, laughter, and connection that await in these unforgettable nights.

Embrace the journey of sobriety, and remember, there’s a whole community here cheering for you!

FAQ’s

1. Can sober activities be as fun as non-sober ones?

Absolutely! Sober activities provide an opportunity for genuine connections, meaningful conversations, and a host of unique, creative ways to enjoy yourself without the influence of alcohol or substances. Plus, you’ll remember all the great times you’ve had.

2. What are some popular sober activities?

There are a plethora of options, including:

Game Nights
Theme Parties
Outdoor Adventures like hiking or beach bonfires
Cooking or Baking Nights
Karaoke
Arts and Crafts
Movie Marathons

3. What is a Designated Fun Planner?

A Designated Fun Planner is someone in the group who takes on the responsibility of planning and coordinating a variety of sober activities for an outing. This person ensures that everyone has a great time while staying true to the aim of a sober night. By rotating this role among friends, everyone gets a chance to contribute to the fun.

4. How do I deal with social pressure to drink?

It can be difficult, especially in a society where social activities often involve alcohol. Be honest about your choice to remain sober. You can also consider having a non-alcoholic drink in hand to deflect attention. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends can make a world of difference.

5. Do I have to disclose that I’m sober or in recovery?

You’re under no obligation to disclose your sobriety or recovery journey unless you’re comfortable doing so. You can simply suggest fun activities that don’t require alcohol. Most people will be more interested in the fun to be had than in whether or not alcohol is involved.

The Best Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for Women

In the last few years, the number of searches for the best dual-diagnosis treatment centers for women has significantly increased. More women are seeking gender-specific treatment centers, and we will explain why.

Addiction is a common disease, but it affects both genders differently. Research on how gender influences addiction has shown that male and female bodies react to substance abuse differently. For instance, women tend to develop dependency and eventual addiction to drugs faster than their male counterparts.

Another proof of this difference is how women metabolize alcohol. The female body produces an enzyme that slows down alcohol metabolism. Eventually, women with substance abuse problems tend to experience more severe symptoms than men.

These are just a few examples of how the effects of substance abuse differ from men to women.

Research has shown that an addict’s gender plays an important role in their treatment journey in recent years. Whether they get treatment, how they get treatment and the barriers they face can also affect addiction treatment and recovery.

Women tend to have a harder time sticking to a treatment plan than men. This issue is often influenced by their responsibilities at home. Also, women experience more mental health comorbidities than men.

With all of these differences, no wonder the need for the best dual-diagnosis treatment centers for women is prominent.

What Is Dual-Diagnosis Treatment?

Dual-diagnosis is treatment for co-occurring disorders. Someone who experiences co-occurring disorders will experience a mental health disorder and substance use simultaneously. Some common mental health disorders that co-occur with substance use disorders are:

Depression
Bipolar disorder
Anxiety
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Borderline personality disorder
Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
Eating disorders
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Schizophrenia

Co-occurring disorders are different from regular substance use disorders because they create a loop.

People who suffer from a dual-diagnosis require a more specialized treatment than those who only deal with substance abuse. This is because the individual has to be treated for the mental health issue as well as the substance use disorder at the same time. Most comorbid disorders influence themselves in a vicious cycle.

For example, a mental health disorder like depression can lead the individual to drink or take drugs. This influence also goes both ways as a substance use disorder can worsen a mental health issue. Most treatment centers opt for an integrated treatment plan where both issues are treated simultaneously to treat dual-diagnosis.

If you do suffer from mental illness and substance use disorder and only receive treatment for SUDS, your likelihood of relapsing is much higher. This can be due to the fact that some of the uncomfortable feelings associated with mental illness drive someone to use drugs or alcohol.

How Anchored Tides Recovery Helps Women Recover From Addiction

With many treatment centers in the United States, why choose Anchored Tides Recovery? First, Anchored Tides Recovery is a gender-specific treatment center dedicated to helping women recover from addiction. This means Anchored Tides Recovery have trained staff that understand and deal with the peculiar differences women go through when seeking treatment for their addiction.

In addition to this, Anchored Tides Recovery also offers a couple of treatment plans like partial- hospitalization and outpatient tailored for women. Are you looking for a women-only rehab center for dual-diagnosis treatment? Anchored Tides Recovery is the right choice.

Our treatment approach combines evidence-based addiction treatment and dual-diagnosis modalities while incorporating a program geared toward women’s issues.

We offer various levels of addiction treatment services including a Women’s Partial Hospitalization Program, an Intensive Outpatient Program, an Outpatient Program, and an aftercare program.

In addition to our numerous treatment programs, we provide a highly serene and conducive environment for healing. Reach out to us today for help with your addiction.

How PTSD and Addiction Are Linked

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.

The Silence Of A Client’s Death

By, Heather Black-Coyne

I have worked in addiction treatment for 10 years now. My journey working in the treatment industry began early in sobriety and like many, I wanted to help others find recovery just as I had. A topic much talked about but not really talked about is the death of our clients. The news coverage speaks to the number of opioid overdoses and the stark increase of deaths over the years. The opioid epidemic is well underway, and tens of thousands die each year because of opioid use. Today’s reality is that someone is now more likely to die of an opioid overdose than a motor vehicle accident. The unfortunate news is methamphetamine use and alcohol use also take thousands of lives, but their toll is overshadowed by the opioid crisis; that’s a topic for another day.

Despite the staggering statistics, in all of my classes, clinical team meetings, and new employee orientations, the fact that one of my clients might die was never discussed. Sure, we covered self-care, hear of and grieve the third-party news that a former client has passed. Sure, I have learned that certain standards, regulations, risk management and compliance measures need to be in place to safeguard organizational liability in case of sentinel events. I have participated in the silence, and I am sad to say that over time, my cognitive sensitivity to death by overdose has decreased.

Today, I’m very aware of the cumulative effect these losses have had on my soul. I am sad. I am confused. I am preoccupied with images of my late client. My thoughts vacillate between my recent client’s death and the loss of past clients. I see past clients sitting in my office talking about their dreams. I hear their longing to be a part of. I imagine them at my doorway, smiling, telling me about their latest achievements. I replay moments where I had this keen sense of them flirting with the afterlife and their weighted connection with death. My process then flips to my recent loss. I feel guilt when I hear others express they thought ‘this one would make it.’ The guilt is rooted in retrospect. I knew a barrier existed between her and true joy. I knew she was just existing, despite the smile she flashed the world. The guilt is rooted in knowing, at times, I operated from a place of defense, “I am here for you AND I am protecting myself.” A sense of protecting myself from the overwhelming feeling of grief, even before you passed away. Though at the time, I truly didn’t know that would be the outcome.

I am grounded and rooted in emotional health. I don’t beat myself up, I don’t ruminate on what I did or did not do. I do not assign myself unnecessary blame. I have and my guess is, others have too. My guess is, that especially for newer counselors, there is some unshakable sense of responsibility. I want to validate that normal human process for anyone who has experienced the death of clients. I want to validate the enormous pull to help save someone’s live and the disappointment of that endeavor not being realized. I want to validate the disparity between seeing someone thrive and then learning of their passing. I want to talk about the fact that if you work in addiction treatment, for any length of time, losing a client is not only a possibility but a probability. When this happens, the loss is staggering. The world silences while your heart sinks. Our thoughts attempt to reconcile the feelings that can’t be explained.

We do this work because we are called to help others, and the need is clear. We do this work, because we believe in the gift of life. We keep doing this work despite the heartache for these reasons. The number of individuals I have seen achieve successful recovery far outweighs the number of individuals I have seen die from this disease. Every story holds a special place in my heart. Every story teaches me something I didn’t know I needed to know. If you are like me, if this subject wasn’t talked about with you, know you are not alone. I am with you, we are with you, let’s talk about it.

Anchored Tides Supports Rock to Recovery Benefit

Rock to Recovery Event in LA August 24th at 7pm

Rock to Recovery 4 – the fourth annual benefit concert with music featuring John Feldman and Sacred Sons, with the latter consisting of musicians whose credits include Korn, Sevendust, She Wants Revenge and Madonna. System of the Down’s Shavo Odadjian will also be sitting in with Sacred Sons for the night.

Feldmann, Goldfinger’s frontman and producer for such acts as Blink-182 and Andy Black, will be saluted with the Rock to Recovery Service Award, while the night’s other major honor, the Rock to Recovery ICON Award, will go to actress-singer Katey Sagal. Both honors salute those who have used their power of influence to help put a spotlight on addiction and recovery while giving hope to others.

The fundraiser helps grow the reach of Rock to Recovery’s innovational music therapy program. All proceeds go towards funding the non-profit’s services which help those suffering from addiction, mental health, wounded warriors, and at-risk youth, to find hope, support, and recovery.

Click here to purchase Rock To Recovery 4 tickets.