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Aftercare: How To Avoid Relapse After Drug Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Options Okanagan

Aftercare: How to avoid relapse after opiate, drug or alcohol rehab treatment finishes in Vancouver, Victoria or Kelowna, British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

In many ways, the most difficult part of getting a long-term recovery process established and maintained occurs after the intensive, initial part of the treatment is finished.

In order to avoid relapse, a majority of individuals need the warm embraces of their loved ones – whether that happens to be close, biological family members or new chosen “family” made up of other recovering individuals that they feel they can turn to anytime they believe they are in danger of a relapse.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Five factors were identified by one study that contribute most often to relapse:

1. Low motivation for change
2. Negative thinking
3. Failing to follow through with recommendations from counselors and doctors
4. Interpersonal conflicts with family members o others
5. Being unable to manage negative emotional states or stress

Those factors are similar to the variables affecting relapse when having to deal with diabetes and other kinds of chronic disorders:

1. Co-occurring mental health disorder
2. Inadequate support from family members
3. Poverty
3. Failing to stick with behavior change, medications or diet

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Addicted individuals, among other things, have to learn how to avoid coming into contact with triggers that might set their brains in motion for its demands for alcohol or drugs. At times when the triggers are unavoidable, individuals need to develop the proper skills that will help to prevent their cravings from completely taking over. One of the core elements of their treatment program needs to be to learn these skills; maintaining them needs to be part of their long-term recovery plan or aftercare program.

A well known aftercare counselor, who helps fellow NA and AA members, says that aftercare is continuing care that an individual needs to stay involved with in order to survive. He adds that if a person simply leaves their 30 day treatment and doesn’t attend meetings or participate in a group and have a sponsor and commitment, then within a very short period of time they will go back. They won’t be able to resist the temptations of Alcohol or Drugs.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

One leading counselor, who is in charge of a confidential addiction assistance program to help employees at a Canadian Major College of Medicine states that expert counselors can’t strongly emphasize the role that the aftercare contract plays enough as well as the aftercare program. He says it is the key to being successful.

Another counselor, who heads a Vancouver recovery center, where participants are able to gather for job training, mutual aid, friendships and other forms of tangible assistance to help individuals in recovery get back on their feet, stay committed to their recovery plans and begin a new life. Peer support is a critical aspect of the recovery center. However solution-oriented efforts are the focus of the organization and it isn’t limited to specific issues that come out of addition-focused dialogue from 12-step programs. Aftercare focuses on the solution instead of the problem.

Many individuals believe they are trying to replace AA. However, they aren’t trying to replace 12-step. Individuals who are in long-term recovery process are in a completely different stage and don’t have the same needs. The counselors have developed recovery commitment plans for their clients – the goal is getting them to the place where they are preparing themselves for a lifetime of recovery.

Services like skill-training and educational services, mentoring and peer coaching, and recovery center play a key role in assisting an addicted individual with rebuilding their lives, avoiding relapse and sustaining long-term recovery. The Recovery Community Services Program (RSCP), a small federal program, funds faith-based and community-based programs that offer these services, which links people with education, jobs and/or housing, as well as hosting drug-free or alcohol-free social activities.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Once Drug And Alcohol Rehab Treatment Concludes In Vancouver, BC; What Aftercare Is Needed For Potential Relapse?

Once your opiate, drug or alcohol rehab treatment finishes in Vancouver, Victoria or Kelowna, British Columbia what aftercare program is needed for a potential relapse back in addiction – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating opiate and alcohol addiction and recovery.

It’s ironic that some of the more difficult chapters of recovery actually take place after treatment is supposedly done, because those who have recovered often suffer from relapses. Families and loved ones of the afflicted individual should be prepared for relapses in post-treatment chapters of life so that the disappointment and damage are manageable.

Even those who went through effective treatment for their addictions are going to have to face situations they are not fully prepared for or comfortable with when they leave rehab and come home to familiar surroundings and normal life. Such situations can cause nearly intolerable cravings for returning to drugs or alcohol. Lapse, which is technically defined as a return to drugs or alcohol even once after treatment, happens to half or more people who finish treatment. The first quarter to half year after formal treatment completion is the period of highest risk. Lapse is different than relapse, which is defined as those who return to drugs or alcohol, not once, but to problematic or excessive levels, happens to just under a third of those that finished treatment in the previous 12 months.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

It’s essential that patients, as well as their close relatives and friends, all prepare for the chance that either lapse or relapse happen. Preparations need to include early detections of lapse, and the establishment of responses that everyone can take to keep a lapse from growing into a full relapse. There are two different activity sets that can minimize the chances of a relapse or at least cut down on the severity of one.

Aftercare: Preparation During Treatment:

Aftercare: The right addiction treatment regimen helps its patients get ready to:

1) Realize they have an issue that demands continued attention and management.
2) Adopt and employ fundamental basics that others have used to identify and resist the craving for drugs or alcohol when such instances present themselves.
3) Stay engaged in continuing care through options such as AA, as well as get routine screening for substance abuse via breathalyzer analysis or urine testing.
4) Be receptive to occasional phone calls or even in-home visitation so that care can be followed and monitored.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

These are rather generic elements but they are also sound techniques for post-care treatment success, and all contribute to avoiding lapse happening. Families should be incorporated into this planning so they know what’s going on and can even support the efforts, such as knowing symptoms and warnings of lapse to look for.

Aftercare: Preparation During Post-Treatment:

In order to hopefully prevent or at least contain a relapse, any nearby family should volunteer to assist in the planning and execution of continuing care. Families and anyone else who cares can help out with five individual steps:

1) Keep copies of planned continuing care readily available so that there is clear communication, expectations, and unambiguous response to issues.

2) Have the recovering addict list in writing early symptoms, signs, and behaviors that might trigger lapse or relapse. These are certain actions, time spent with particular individuals, or even inactions that should be considered stern warning signs. Family and friends should monitor the addict for these warning signs at all times.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

3) The addict should also consider potential or former relapses and advise friends and family on what they can do to stop them or help them out. These steps and scenarios can be used to construct action plans.

4) The family should have access to the results of urine screening after post-treatment, and these results should be on display for everyone to see. Positive results should get noticed in conversations honestly and openly.

5) Look out for any changes in the addict that seem in alignment with a lifestyle free of drugs or alcohol. Reinforce positive behavior accordingly.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Why Aftercare Is Crucial For Your Opiate , Drug And Alcohol Addiction Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Part 04 – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Why Aftercare is Crucial for your opiate, drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

How To Succeed

Willingness To Change, Openness, and Honesty.

Nobody can complete addiction treatment in place of the person with the addiction, and even excellent centers will not succeed if the patient is not willing to commit to their own treatment. They must be open and honest, and willing to do the work that will be needed.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

a) It is important to do major soul searching, and face any demons in the past. Be honest with any emotions that come up, regardless of how painful they are. It is important to embrace even the unpleasant feelings, as it is a necessary part of recovery. It might be wise to make a list of the experiences that come up, so they can be discussed with a counselor. It is important to be honest and get to the root of the cause of the abuse. An objective look at the events of the past can bring insight when examined by a skilled therapist or couselor and is essential to succeed.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

b) Observe and listen to others. Others have valuable knowledge and experience that can help. Even if the topic at hand doesn’t seem relevant, for example, a person sharing their abuse of prescription medication when the individual is dealing with addiction to alcohol, there is still useful information that can be gleaned from the other’s experiences. Listening closely during meetings and group sessions is just as important as feelings and experiences that the individual experienced.

c) Share experiences, feelings, and thoughts that come up during the recovery process, even if they seem awkward or embarrassing. Some people might find relief in sharing their pain, however, others are self-conscious, and want to share as little as they can get away with. Not being willing to share honest and open observations and experiences sets a person up to fail and can even sabotage efforts at recovery. It is important to be willing to share, even if it seems uncomfortable at the time.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Next Steps In Aftercare

Recovery takes time and shouldn’t be rushed. Even with the support of a good aftercare program and transitional home, relapses can still happen, especially in the time immediately following leaving rehab. For example, in a survey of members of Alcoholics Anonymous, it was found that 4 out of 5 people had a relapse during the first year of recovery. However, once the five-year mark was reached, the chance of relapse drops to just 8 percent. This survey shows just how important it is for an individual to continue with their aftercare, even if a relapse occurs.

Relapse Does Not Mean Failure

A relapse event doesn’t necessarily mean that the aftercare program failed, it just means that treatment is not done. Sobriety is something that can only be achieved day by day. Having an aftercare program such as a transitional home can help a person stay committed and reach their goals. If an individual also suffers from other mental disorders, aftercare is a great time to address these and start a treatment program to address them in addition to the problems with addiction.

Aftercare increases the chance of success. For example, alcohol dependence rates decreased by 4 million cases in 2014. While there could be several reasons for the decrease, one is undoubtedly the increase in aftercare options within treatment programs. For unemployed individuals, a transitional home also provides a place to live, stability, and much needed support as they search for a job. From group therapy to specialized living situation, aftercare provides much-needed assistance during the vital period just after inpatient rehab. It also provides assistance in maintaining sobriety and getting help in the case of a relapse.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and BC even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Why Aftercare Is Crucial For Your Opiate And Alcohol Addiction Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Part 03 – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Why Aftercare is Crucial for your opiate, drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

When Transitional Living Is Right For Aftercare

Sometimes it is possible for a person to return home after completing their treatment program at a rehabilitation center. If they have family and friends or even neighbors and coworkers who support their recovery, there is a support network in place. They should still have access to outpatient aftercare, including group meetings, therapy, and a sponsor. Others, however, might not have a very supportive network waiting for them after they finish their inpatient program.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

They may not have a job to go back to or enough money to cover expenses. Their home life may be negative, or they may not have a home at all. Others simply might not feel ready to return to their everyday life, feeling overwhelmed by the reality of sobriety. For these people, a transitional living situation can give them a chance to smoothly move from inpatient rehab to living independently.

Explaining Extended Care

Patients in an extended care facility usually live in an environment that is supervised, but feels home-like. If an individual feels tempted to relapse, they have access to either a counselor, therapist, or fellow recovering addict at their fingertips. A transitional living situation includes access to a house manager and counselor, and often the manager is an addiction specialist or former addict themselves.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Help Is Available Round-The-Clock

Individuals often benefit from having support available anytime they need it. Meetings are often held daily, and there are many opportunities for discussion of feelings, hopes, and fears in order to work out any problems that arise. Residents in a program also serve as a source of encouragement and support, establishing a community and sense of fellowship. While a transitional community has less structure than an inpatient treatment facility, they still have fixed rules that establish a sense of stability.

Housemates often share chore duty, taking turns cleaning and cooking. These chores not only maintain the house, they impart a sense of routine and structure that is essential for someone just out of rehab. The members of the household also must follow rules on curfew and meeting attendance.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Besides their daily chores, individuals who live in transitional housing can choose to take classes to improve life skills. These can vary from parenting classes to workshops to refine a resume. The classes will help the individual learn the skills they will need and haven’t had a chance to master on their own due to their addiction. In addition, if the person is currently unemployed, a transitional home is more affordable while providing essential stability as they search for a new job.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Why Aftercare Is Crucial For Your Drug Or Alcohol Addiction Treatment In Vancouver, BC – Part 02 – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Why Aftercare is Crucial for your drug and alcohol treatment in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia – Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

Benefits of Aftercare

By providing an opportunity for continued support, counseling, or transitional living, programs for aftercare give individuals another layer of accountability that stands between them and returning to their substance of choice. These programs are a safe place where individuals can connect with other recovering addicts, advice for coping with temptation and stress, motivational speakers, and a mentor or sponsor.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Aftercare programs are also quite useful for the family and friends of those suffering from addiction issues. Many services include counseling sessions for the spouse, parents, children, or partners of the person with the addiction problem. Group therapy and educational seminars on the link between mental disorders and substance abuse can also serve as a great resource for friends and family. Family members are also welcome at various 12-step programs such as meetings of Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, who both have material tailored especially for family of the recovering addicts. These meetings serve as a place where family members can safely share their experience with addiction and gain the support of others in similar situations.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Finding The Right Program

If an aftercare program is to be effective, it must be tailored individually to the person. These types of plans usually are created as a joint effort between the individual and addiction specialist or counselor before they are discharged from their rehabilitation program. How complex the plan is will depend on what the person needs, what their home life is like, the environment they will be returning to, and their risk of relapse. The less that is left to chance, the better. Without a concrete plan, it is very easy for an individual to relapse and take up old habits. The aim of a good aftercare plan is to have nothing left to chance.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Basic Steps In Aftercare

No two aftercare plans will be identical, however, these basic steps are usually a part of the program.

1) Continuing therapy. Having therapy sessions continue beyond the period in the rehabilitation center will allow a person to continue working on any issues that they have that might have contributed to their addictions. Individuals who are new to recovery will have a greater chance of attending regular programs for recovery if they have someone to be accountable to.

2) Learning Triggers. A person needs to learn what triggers their addiction and how they can cope with them using workshops, group therapy, lectures, or individual therapy sessions. There are many different factors, psychological, social, or environmental in nature, that could trigger someone to return to their addiction. A loved one’s sudden death, losing their job, PTSD, or any sudden extreme sensation or emotion has a risk of driving someone to relapse. While initial discovery of these triggers may begin during their stay at rehab, returning to their normal life may trigger a host of new problems. This is where the importance of understanding triggers comes in during aftercare.

3) Coping with cravings and stress. After leaving rehab, a person may face a situation that they didn’t anticipate while in treatment. Even a good experience, like a new job, can cause stress and trigger a craving for their substance of choice. Aftercare programs include teaching skills on how to cope with stress and deal with cravings. Regular attendance at counseling or support groups will give additional structure to the person’s life, so when stress hits, they can reach out to their support system and reduce their chances of relapse.

4) Preventing relapse. Nobody is perfect. Even a person who is committed to recovery can suffer from a relapse, whether as small as a sip of alcohol or as large as using again. A lapse might appear to be minor, however, they can cause a very fast spiral downwards back towards relapse and substance abuse. A major part of an aftercare plan should be a plan for what to do if the person relapses. They should list 5 people who they can contact, such as a sober friend or sponsor), and 5 steps they can take to stop the abuse immediately, such as asking for a ride away from the situation or attending a support meeting. Thinking of the possible outcomes in case of relapse and having a plan in place to address any mistakes can reduce the chances that the person will seriously relapse.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Aftercare In Vancouver, B.C. And An Explanation Of AA : Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Aftercare in Vancouver, British Columbia and an explanation of AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) by Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate addiction and recovery.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) over the last 60 years has been the common and frequently the only kind of care for alcohol as well as other substance use issues. Out of all of the mutual assistance groups that are available, including Narcotics Anonymous and Smart Recovery, by far AA is the most widely and readily available. The focus of AA meetings is on having honest, open and frank discussions regarding all of the various aspects to help people deal with recovery – both the positive experiences that recovery brings as well as the pains that were experienced during times of substance use.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

There are no fees charged by AA. Meetings are not for alcoholics only – individuals are welcome who have all kinds of different substance use problems. There are some meetings that allow smoking, however many don’t. Coffee is made by a volunteer for these one-hour meetings, and typically a volunteer chair will open the meeting by telling her or his personal recovery story and then the meeting will be opened. Then people raise their hands to either share a positive experience that has been brought to them by their recovery or to talk about a problem that they are struggling with. In AA there is no criticism, and there is no deriding of anyone’s issues or statements. All comments and issues are treated with confidentiality and respect.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Is AA a form of treatment?

No it is not. AA is a mutual help organization. There have been many people who have entered into recovery through just attending AA meetings and not having any formal treatment. AA has been used by many others as a type of continuing care in order to help them stay sober after they have undergone a formal treatment program.

Is AA a kind of religious group?

No, it is not. Although there are spiritual (not religious) aspect that are a part of numerous groups, it isn’t universal. There are many members of AA who think that a major key to their recovery is getting in touch with their own spirituality. However, this view isn’t shared by everyone. AA doesn’t require any spiritual or religious involvement.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Is AA for alcoholics only?

No, it is not. AA is for anybody with a substance use problem, no matter what their level of severity or diagnosis is who is interested in achieving sobriety and then staying sober. Many who go to AA meeting have more than one substance use issue.

What are AA’s 12 steps?

In AA writings and meetings the 12 steps that are discussed involve steps that come from the collective experience of individuals who are in recovery that result in developing a forgiving, helping an honest lifestyle – it is the type of life that isn’t consistent with addiction at all.

Men Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Vancouver

Is it all talk?

No, a majority of those attending AA meetings are able to meet with other recovering individuals and get together with them socially for meals and coffee or other kinds of social events. In addition, AA meetings can lead to other kinds of useful connections to things like affordable housing and jobs. In these ways, AA meetings can serve the daily and social needs of individuals in recovery as well as help them to meet their daily challenges.

Where can AA meetings be found?

On the Internet an AA directory is posted. Most treatment programs have local schedules that are available. Nearly every town has church or more that dedicates a meeting room for AA meetings several times a week or day.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction and Addiction Aftercare in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, heroin drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Getting Help For Alcohol Addiction In Vancouver, BC : Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Getting help for Alcohol Addiction in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

Struggling with an addiction to alcohol can leave people filled with feelings of guilt, shame and remorse. Recovering alcoholics may also feel embarrassed about the fact that they can’t control their drinking. If you’re like most alcoholics, you’ve likely tried multiple times to control your drinking through different methods, but for you they just don’t seem to work. This can make you feel defeated, but the key is to get the help you need for an alcohol addiction that you need at an accredited alcohol treatment program.

Opiate addiction and drug abuse and Alcohol addiction in Vancouver

Don’t Surrender to the Disease – Get Help for an Alcohol Addiction

Many alcoholics pursue the idea that they can drink like everyone else to the point where doing so becomes dangerous. Although you may be able to hold yourself together in every other aspect of your life, it must be understood that alcohol addiction can be deceptive. In addition to the risks involved in such addictions, it’s among the few illnesses that individuals frequently tell themselves they are not afflicted by, all evidence to the contrary. Reaching a moment of clarity in which you understand you can’t maintain control when it comes to alcohol is important, after which one can finally begin to seek help.

People Living with Drug addiction in Vancouver

Ask For Help

Alcoholism may have caused you to lose contact with family and friends due to your actions done under the influence. This may well have resulted in certain people walking away from you, but there are some people who love and care about you who had to walk away because they couldn’t stand to watch you continue down that path. It is always surprising to see the reaction you get when you tell the people closest to you that you understand that you have a problem that you need genuine help for your problems with alcohol. Many loved ones will do what they can do get you into a worthwhile treatment program.

Unfortunately, some people don’t have this luxury. In cases like these, one should see the help of an addiction specialist. By meeting with a specialist, you’ll get the information you need about what type of treatment program is best for you, as well as what you can do to cover the costs. There are a range of different grant programs and health insurance plans also frequently help with the cost of addiction treatment.

Men Living with Drug and Alcohol addiction in Vancouver

When you’ve reached the point where your problems with alcohol become too much, allow “Options Okanagan” to help. We have a quality addiction treatment program, where we’re passionate about helping people recover form alcoholism. We have seen people who had lost all hope go on to live incredible lives that they never knew were possible. Help for alcoholism is closer than you think.

Put your addiction in your past and get help for an alcohol addiction now. Call “Options Okanagan” today at 855-335-0331.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate and Alcohol Addiction in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, meth drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

Vancouver, BC : How Alcohol Effects The Human Body : Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

How alcohol effects the human body by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

Alcohol, and ethanol in particular, is a central system nervous depressant. If excessive quantities are ingested it can have drastic effects on the human body. It causes coma, increased risk for cancer, liver cirrhosis, and even death in some cases. The following will help provide you with a detailed understanding of the various effects that alcohol can have on a human body.

Have you ever wandered the city streets next to the pubs and bars after a late night party on a Saturday? If your answer is yes, then you have undoubtedly run across at least a couple of people stumbling around, unable to speak properly, and claiming that the world is spinning all around them. You just ignore their claims and assume they are a bit drunk. What happens exactly to those people when they drink alcohol? It might be a bit more complicated and dangerous than we may think. The term ‘alcohol’ covers the whole organic compound family, such as isopropanol, ethanol and methanol. However, generally speaking when we are talking about alcohol we mean ‘ethanol,’ which among these chemicals is ingested the most. Ethanol is an organic compound that is comprised of the molecules of Oxygen, Hydrogen and Carbon. It is a very volatile liquid that has a very distinct odor and great affinity for water. Its high solubility when it is in water in fact makes it among the most powerful depressants of the central nervous system in human beings. It is a hypnotic and powerful sedative with various side effects. The extent of its affect on the central nervous system will depend upon the alcohol concentration in the blood, which is usually referred to using the acronym BAC (short for Blood Alcohol Content).

Opiate addictin and Alcohol abuse and addiction in Vancouver

Alcohol Consumption Effects

Distribution And Absorption Mechanism

When alcohol is consumed, the first thing that it does it irritate the mouth’s mucous lining followed by the esophagus. This causes an anesthetic effect. Next it goes into the stomach. Only around 20% of the total amount is absorbed there. The small intestine absorbs the remaining 80% and is then distributed throughout the entire human body. During this process alcohol travels throughout the blood where it comes into contact with nearly every organ’s cells. As previously mentioned, due to the high affinity that it has with water, it is able to penetrate nearly all cellular membranes. This results in all organs absorbing it.

People Living with Drug and Alcohol addiction in Vancouver

Initial Stage Effects

The effects that alcohol has when it is ingested on the human body gradually changes over time. During the initial stages, an individuals feels cheerful and more relaxed. This is followed by more animated speech and stumbling movements.
A person frequently starts letting go of their inhibitions and becomes more confident. This occurs due to the increased metabolism within the brain’s nigrostriatal pathway, which is associated with movements of the body. Increased alpha waves with the brain make the individuals more relaxed and cheerful, while stimulation to the cortex within the brain’s hippocampus region helps the person lose their inhibitions. The stage is often referred to as ‘euphoria’ and has a BAC of about 0.03 to 0.12%.

Long Term Effects

The enzyme dehydrogenase, which the hepatic cells secretes, converts alcohol into acetaldehyde. The acetaldehyde gets converted further into acetic acid. Then from acetaldehyde dehydrogenase it becomes acetate. Acetate is a type of compound of fats that is locally deposited. The blood is filtered by the liver and it also eliminates toxins out of the body as urine. Due to continuous and chronic consumption of alcohol, the increased levels of fatty acid results in plaque forming within the hepatic capillaries. The situation can result in liver cirrhosis. Since the liver performs the critical role as the body’s filtration mechanism, malfunctioning of the liver frequently leads to hepatitis and jaundice. Antidiuretic hormone secretion is inhibited by alcohol, which results in more urine forming and dehydration.

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Although drinking one glass of alcohol per day can help the heart function properly, an excess amount of alcohol affects how it works and it won’t be able to pump the amount of blood that is necessary to various parts of the body. Consuming an excessive amount of alcohol can also affect the endocrine gland functioning. They are responsible for metabolism, tissue function and secreting growth hormones. An excessive amount of alcohol may weaken the immune system as well. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder can be caused when alcohol is consumed while a woman is pregnant.

Carcinogenic Effects

WHO classified alcohol as Group 1 carcinogens. Despite the fact that previous studies have been unable to establish any direct connection between cancer and alcohol, there are strong indications that suggests that the effect of other kinds of carcinogenic chemicals such as tobacco are enhanced by alcohol. Acetaldehyde, which is the byproduct of alcohol metabolism, becomes concentrated within the body in very high mounts. This can damage the cells DNA. When they react with polyamines they may end up forming mutagenic DNA. Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol increases risk for breast, liver, esophagus, pharynx, larynx and mouth cancer.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate and Alcohol Addiction in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, meth drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

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Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

How Families Are Affected By Alcoholism In Vancouver, BC – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

How families are affected by Alcoholism in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna and other parts of British Columbia by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate and Alcohol addiction and recovery.

If you would like to know how alcoholism affects families, then the first thing you need to know is what exactly alcoholism means. The information that follows will help to shed some light on the effects that alcoholism can have on families, as well as what this disease is.

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Alcoholism is a family and health problem. The effects that this disease has on the alcoholic can be quite dangerous, and in the process the family also gets victimized. Many people would like to have an exact definition of the term alcoholism, whether or not it can be treated, and if it is hereditary. All of the answers to those questions are right here. Each year, numerous households all over the world lose an adult, in the form of a father or mother, to alcoholism. Each year, alcoholism causes separation of families and divorces. Each year, numerous babies are born with birth defects and suffer from having Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS). Each year, more alcoholics enroll in a rehabilitation center all around the world. Those are only a couple of examples showing how families are affected by alcoholism; there are many more undoubtedly. It is more likely that children of alcoholics will become alcoholics themselves. This and much more is provided in the following information.

Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Before knowing how families are affected by alcoholism, it is very important that you have a good understanding of the actual concept of alcoholism. Alcoholism was formerly known as dipsomania. It is among the most common of all addictions seen today. Medically, it is also referred to as a treatable disease and disabling addictive disorder. Individuals suffering from alcoholism are referred to as alcoholics. Alcoholics are aware of the dangers associated with this addiction, but compulsively drink every day anyway, and in quantities that they are not able to control. Alcoholism is among the leading factors that cause family disputes currently, as well as deaths. Magnus Huss first used the term in 1849. The term alcohol abuse refers to when an alcoholic continues to drink despite being able to see the negative effects that his drinking is having on his social and personal life. The term alcoholic dependence refers to when an individual drinks even after having been diagnosed with having health problems that relate to consuming excessive amounts of alcohol. There is a major difference medically between those two terms. However, common people refer to all of it as just alcoholism. Now that you have a better understanding of what all of those terms mean, we can now proceed to see what affects alcoholism has.

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Examples Of How Families Are Affected By Alcoholism

Finances

A family’s finances are hit very badly by alcoholism. Alcohol is expensive to buy, and especially when you take into consideration the amount that is consumed by alcoholics. The money spent on drinking could go into the family’s savings instead. There are many different examples of individuals who have become bankrupt due to their addiction to alcohol. The health problems that this addiction causes must be treated, and this affects the budget as well. If an alcoholic must visit a rehab, that will also cost money. An individual’s professional life is affected by alcoholism, and he may need to change jobs on a regular basis, which will also impact the family’s finances.

Unstable Emotions

Here is the answer if you are wanting to know how alcoholism can permanently affect families. It definitely isn’t easy to live with an alcoholic. The continuous feeling that you are doing something wrong, the guilt, the withdrawal symptoms, all add to the frustrations, and adds up to suffocation eventually. The frustration affects the children and spouse as well. Mental and physical abuse caused by alcohol is among the leading problems that is faced by households these days. The victim becomes quite vulnerable. There is a great deal of anxiety, and this can lead to depression as well. All of these unstable emotions can cause the home environment to be quite unstable.

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Children’s Tortured Mental Development

For children, having alcoholic parents is a complete nightmare. Alcoholism causes many problems like violence. These kinds of problems affect children in numerous different ways. Children don’t feel like they belong to the family, and have a difficult time with being accepted. At times, some parents may even blame their children for their drinking problem. This makes them feel guilty for something that is completely not their fault. In order to escape this guilt, they also begin to drink. That is one of the main reasons why alcoholism has a tendency to run in families. Another related aspect is women who drink while they are pregnant. That can lead to FAS, as discussed previously, and the baby can grow abnormally. There are different programs out there that are available for children who have drinking parents. Those children are referred to as Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOAs) and Children of Alcoholics (COAs). Those children may become affected by depression and are very impulsive.

Dangers of Infidelity

A majority of the women wanting to know how families are affected by alcoholism, have suspected that there is another woman that is part of their husband’s life. It is certainly not a hollow doubt, since men who are heavy drinkers have a tendency to find comfort outside of their homes, where their drinking isn’t as likely to be questioned. Many alcoholics participate in infidelity. It appears to be a good way to escape from all of the pressures of responsibility. Basically they just want to have someone tell them how their drinking is something that is normal. At times, some men also indulge in prostitution, which is another effect that alcoholism can have. These problems can all affect the togetherness and stability of the family.

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Social Pressures

There are many social pressures that start to affect the family with an alcoholic member. Alcoholics are well known within their social circles, since they drink in front of everybody and not only at home. The way the alcoholic behave towards his family within the social circle is often an embarrassment that isn’t very easy for the family to deal with. Whenever the family is not with the alcoholic, individuals will see the problem and mention it to family members. Children may get teased at college and school. Social functions and gatherings become off limits, since attending them would cause insult for both parties.

If someone close to you is an alcoholic, try to help him and show the person what effects his drinking has on his family. Not everybody has a family, and that is why it is very important to value those we are close to. Alcoholism has disastrous effects on friends as well as families. This can leave victims feeling all alone. Being alone isn’t something everyone is able to deal with. An addiction never does anyone any good, so do whatever you can to help yourself before other people must!

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate and Alcohol Addiction in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, meth drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

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Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331

The Privacy Debate About Addiction And Anonymity – Options Okanagan Vancouver BC

The Privacy Debate About Addiction And Anonymity by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating Opiate addiction and recovery.

You are probably familiar or have heard of 12-step programs. If you are, then you know the concept of anonymity is important. This is because it plays a major role in why addicts and alcoholics are able to maintain a sober lifestyle.

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However, many people wonder if there is still much credence in today’s society. This is because there are so many ways for people to communicate, such as various social media sites. With that said, continue to read on about detractors and proponents in regards to anonymity and recovery.

1. Detractors– People who are detractors believe privacy is not the central focus, and there is a stigma when it comes to addiction and our culture. This group believes that the only way shame associated with addiction can be lessened is by discussing things opening. They believe that addicts get a glimmer of hope when they hear success stories and it increases access to treatment.

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The group tends to promote that addiction doesn’t care about social classes and that anybody can enter recovery. When people discuss how they got clean and they tell their success stories, then they are helping those who don’t discuss their issues. They provide a voice to those who are still struggling with addictions and to those who suffer in silence.

2. Proponents– However, people who are proponents think differently. They believe it is not designed to promote secrecy, and they believe it is a way to protect members who are affiliated with a fellowship. It is to make sure that everyone in the meeting are equal and it is to discourage people’s drives for prestige or power and recognition. These things have led to the downfall of many addicts and alcoholics.

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One of the most important things anonymity provides is a safe environment that allows you to open up to others, and you won’t feel as if you are being judged. Sometimes people are not comfortable discussing issues in a public setting or they don’t like to discuss things with those who might not have a good understanding of what recovery means, and this is especially true for those who are new in recovery. People often like to ensure their identities won’t be disclosed to people outside the meeting, and it helps them feel safe, builds trust and it helps people heal when they are able to share with others in a comfortable environment.

Regardless of how you feel, it is a personal choice when it comes to embracing anonymity. When it comes to getting sober, there is no wrong or right path to follow. You want to find what you are most comfortable with and go from there because that will work the best.

Options Okanagan Opiate and Alcohol Treatment Centers in Kelowna, Salmon Arm and Vancouver, British Columbia – Men and Women are recovering and healing from Alcohol and Drug Abuse at our treatment center here in the Okanagan right now.

Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction in Kelowna

Our unique and distinctive Opiate Drug and Alcohol treatment program allows men and women to come in from Calgary as well as Edmonton as we offer airport pickup.

Numerous clients come to us from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton and other locations in Alberta and even other provinces for Opiate addiction treatment, meth drug treatment, many other drug and alcohol addictions for rehabilitation because of the uniqueness of our treatment center.

Google+ Options Okanagan

Our Treatment Location:
Options Okanagan Opiate Treatment Center
551 Sherrydale Crescent, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 2E6
Toll Free Phone Number : 1-855-335-0331