Substance Abuse and Addiction in LGBTQ PeopleSince the late 1990s, crystal methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth or just meth, has been a health concern in the LGBTQ community. It was popular among gay and bisexual men in New York City as an aphrodisiac. Today, crystal meth is a popular drug among the young LGBTQ community because of its stimulating effects and is usually used as a party drug. Meth use among the LGBTQ community is not the only drug on the rise. The substance abuse rate among the LGBTQ community is higher than other populations, primarily due to the prevalence of discrimination, stigmatization, violence, and harassment many in the community face daily. This has created a growing need for gay-friendly meth rehab in Los Angeles. Several facilities offer specialized treatment to meet the challenges the LGBTQ face as they attempt to achieve sobriety. Besides providing help with abuse, trauma, and stigmatization, they also connect clients with peers who share the same experiences and struggles. Addiction and substance abuse rates are higher among people who identify as bisexual, homosexual, transgender, or somewhere else on the gender or sexuality spectrum (LGBTQ). Studies have found that people in the LGBTQ community are at higher risk of alcohol and drug abuse than the general population.
Members of the LGBTQ community also face higher rates of mental health illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and suicidality due to their societal challenges. They also avoid or fail to get help for these issues because they have historically had challenges getting adequate healthcare without judgment, bias, or straight-out discrimination, including in areas of substance abuse and mental health. Thankfully, in the past decades, perception and attitudes towards LGBTQ have shifted, and even though there is much more work to be done, it has been easier to get the health treatment they need. Addiction rates among LGBTQ are rooted in the mental health issues developed because they have experienced extensive discrimination both in personal lives and in the public sphere. LGBTQ people who have experienced forms of discrimination are four times more likely to develop some type of substance abuse disorder. The most common contributing factors include:
LGBTQ people struggling with addiction may have experienced one or more of these incidents or fear these happening that could contribute to developing the addiction. Most will create a form of mental illness from these experiences and self-medicate with alcohol or drugs to dull negative feelings. This further exacerbates feelings of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more, which causes them to abuse these substances, which can develop into an addiction. Meth Addiction Among Gay MenCrystal meth abuse statistics among gay men is worrisome, especially in metropolitan areas. It is a growing trend, especially among LGBTQ teens. Meth acts as a stimulant by releasing dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, creating feelings of euphoria, suppressed appetite, better sexual performance, and more energy. Psychologically it can also produce feelings of power, invulnerability, and confidence. It basically gives users a false sense of well-being. These are many of the emotions people in the LGBTQ community look for due to the feelings of low-self esteem and fear discrimination can cause. The drug will last up to 12 hours but is followed by “the crash,” including irritability, depression, paranoia, and exhaustion. Individuals will then want to use again to avoid these negative feelings and may end up with addiction. Long-term use of methamphetamines has many negative health consequences. Meth addiction leads to many health problems, some irreversible, such as brain, liver, or kidney damage, memory loss, severe tooth decay, extreme weight loss, increased heart rate, and a higher chance of suffering from a stroke. Why Substance Abuse Is Higher in LGBTQThe biggest reason for higher substance abuse in LGBTQ is primarily due to the higher rates of mental illness among the community. Years of discrimination, stigmatization, ostracization, physical, mental, and sexual abuse, and fear have caused many mental health disorders. These include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and even higher suicide rates. Many in the LGBTQ community have also experienced discrimination and judgment when seeking medical care, making them less likely to seek out healthcare for these mental health issues. Instead, they turn to drugs and alcohol to help relieve negative feelings, only to worsen these issues, and further abuse substances to counteract the pain, which can quickly turn into an addiction. Another cause of higher mental health illness in the LGBTQ is for those who remain “closeted.” Fear of being rejected or ridiculed by family and friends, as well as potentially losing employment, many keep their sexuality or gender identity a secret, often living a double life. This causes a lot of turmoil and depression as well. There is also the case that LGBTQ-friendly social places (i.e., gay-friendly bars and nightclubs) usually center around drugs and alcohol as a contributing factor. It can be challenging to maintain sobriety when most social interactions are around drugs and alcohol. LGBTQ entering substance abuse centers also tend to have more severe forms of addiction. Many addiction centers also fail to meet the needs of many LGBTQ, including treating co-occurring disorders and reducing the likelihood of discrimination from staff or other clients in their facility. They can easily relapse once they leave the treatment center because they fail to receive the support or proper care. The Importance of Gay-Friendly RehabRecognizing the particular issues LGBTQ face is essential for residential treatment. For example, housing transgender individuals with their self-identifying gender can make a difference in their treatment or be aware of the individual needs of gay men compared to lesbian women. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has outlined approaches treatment providers can adopt in the manual “A Provider’s Introduction to Substance Abuse Treatment for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Individuals.” By implementing practices such as these, treatment centers may develop more effective protocols to address several LGBTQ-specific needs. By getting to the root of the addiction, such as mental health issues, addiction treatment can help individuals truly heal and better cope with their feelings. Providing specific solutions and coping mechanisms at gay-friendly meth rehab in Los Angeles is also necessary to avoid future relapses. How to Find a Gay-Friendly Meth Rehab in Los AngelesThe growing awareness of the higher rates of substance abuse and mental health among the LGBTQ and the specific needs the community requires to achieve long-term sobriety has contributed to more treatment centers providing LGBTQ-friendly treatment programs. For finding gay-friendly meth rehab in Los Angeles, it is vital to make sure that the program being chosen has the support and therapies to help patients deal with specific issues they may deal with during and after rehab, such as:
When looking for gay-friendly meth rehab in Los Angeles, patients should also research if the facility will simultaneously treat co-occurring disorders like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other health issues. This process can ensure individuals have the tools to manage their sobriety after rehab. Meth rehab is most likely to help individuals achieve long-term recovery if they offer customized treatment plans. Finding gay-friendly meth rehab is important to address these specific needs as well as help connect individuals with peers who can relate to one another’s past experiences and struggles. It can also create a lasting community of support to help each person maintain sobriety many years down the road. Muse Treatment offers gay-friendly rehab in Los Angeles. We believe in the importance of safety and inclusion among every patient. We provide a safe space in our individual and group therapy sessions, which use various evidence-based addiction treatment models. At Muse Treatment, every treatment plan is individualized to fit each client and help heal the body, mind, and spirit. We also emphasize treating co-occurring disorders and can offer medication assisted treatment. If you or a loved one is struggling with meth addiction and are looking for a gay-friendly rehab in Los Angeles, Muse Treatment can provide the safe and effective care you need. Please give us a call at (800) 426-1818 today, and one of our addiction specialists can guide you or answer any questions you may have about starting addiction recovery at Muse Treatment. The post Gay-Friendly Meth Rehab in Los Angeles appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/gay-friendly-meth-rehab-in-los-angeles/
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What Is Meth?Meth is a central nervous system stimulant drug that causes feelings of euphoria, energy, and well-being, increasing your level of outgoingness and talkativeness, with decreased appetite and increased activity. It is smoked or injected for an intense, brief rush of pleasurable feelings, and it can also be ingested or snorted, which will produce euphoric effects within minutes. It is a potent drug that can lead to rapid physical dependency when abused, much more powerful than other amphetamines as more of the drug can pass through the blood-brain barrier at one time. This rapidly raises dopamine levels in the reward centers of the brain. Still, these effects only last momentarily, so many users will repeatedly take the drug in one session, staying up for several days, foregoing sleep, food, and life’s responsibilities for the drug. Soon a physical dependence is formed, and withdrawal symptoms will appear if the person tries to stop using meth, leading to addiction. Unfortunately, meth addiction among gay men is on the rise, but addiction treatment is available.
Long-term Effects of Meth UseLong-term meth abuse can seriously harm the body and change the brain over time. Some effects of long-term meth use include:
Signs of Meth AddictionSome signs of meth addiction include:
How Is Meth Disproportionately Affecting the Gay Community?Regarding meth addiction among gay men, statistics show that since the late 1990s, especially in central city areas, meth has caused incredible damage to the gay population of America. Gay men generally report higher drug use and addiction levels than their straight counterparts, and the gay community is the largest consumer of “party drugs.” Meth is also used as part of a “speedball” when heroin or a sedative is dangerously combined with meth. This practice highly increases the risk of death by overdose, as one drug can mask the overdose symptoms of the other until it is too late. Parties involving sex and drugs are nothing new, but meth parties are becoming increasingly common, with gay and bisexual men and teens using the drug as an aphrodisiac to enhance their sexual experiences. As meth raises dopamine in the brain, this may be a short-term pleasure enhancer, but using meth in this way can cause long-term damage to sexual performance and pleasure. Because meth can be used intravenously (by injection), and drug use can promote risky behavior, there is also a correlation between infectious diseases like HIV and meth use. Meth addiction among gay men is reaching a crisis level. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of meth addiction or has been using meth or other party drugs regularly and is now unable to quit or cut back without experiencing withdrawal symptoms, it may be time to speak with an addiction professional, counselor, or your doctor to find out what your options are. Drug rehab does not need to be traumatic or scary, and there are plenty of gay-friendly rehab centers around the Los Angeles area that can help you. Meth DetoxWhen trying to overcome meth addiction among gay men, it is important to have medical oversight when detoxing from meth to ensure you remain safe and healthy. The “crash” from coming down off meth can last between a couple of days and several weeks. You may feel symptoms like:
At Muse Treatment, we offer a Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) program for detoxing from meth, in which you will move into our facility for the duration of your detox. This process will allow our medical team to be there for you, providing treatments like tailored prescription medications to help with discomfort and rest and ensuring your body can heal safely from the dehydration and malnutrition that often comes with meth abuse. MAT programs take a “whole patient” approach to wellness. Also, they include dual diagnosis treatments to begin to deal with any co-occurring mental health issues that exist alongside the addiction. This may consist of meth-induced psychosis and underlying conditions that caused the addiction in the first place, like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or ADHD. Every patient is unique, and we will work with you to help you get to the root of your addiction. We also provide therapy and counseling within the first few days of detoxing so you have the full spectrum of support and care you need to ensure that the process is not traumatizing, and you have help dealing with any difficult emotions and thoughts as the drugs leave your body. Meth Inpatient RehabOnce you have completed your detox program, it is recommended that you move directly into an inpatient meth rehab program. At Muse Treatment, we offer a 30-to-90-day residential inpatient rehab program that includes 24-hour care as you live alongside peers in our safe and sober rehab center. During inpatient rehab, you will address the underlying issues that play a part in drug addiction, including mental health issues, trauma, and social and family issues. In rehab, you can dig deep, getting to the cause of your addiction through treatments like:
Inpatient rehab is especially beneficial as it removes you from the usual places, people, and triggers that may encourage a relapse after detoxing. You will move into a 100% sober facility full-time, away from temptation and stress, focusing entirely on your recovery and health. This way, you can genuinely work toward sobriety without distraction, learning healthy coping mechanisms and new skills that will aid in long-term recovery. Meth Outpatient RehabWe also offer outpatient programs for drug rehab, including our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Outpatient programs are excellent for transitioning back to your everyday life after inpatient rehab, as you can move back home or into a sober living facility but still receive treatments and support.
All our outpatient programs at Muse Treatment include three main facets:
If you are motivated, have a sober-friendly place to live, and a strong support group, an outpatient program may be right for you. Gay-Friendly Drug Rehab in Los AngelesFor gay-friendly drug rehab in Los Angeles, look no further than Muse Treatment. At our meth rehab, we welcome all people and are LGBTQ+ friendly. We have a welcoming community with caring staff members who use trauma-informed care in all they do. We will never make you do anything you don’t want to do, and we believe in gaining informed consent before providing any treatment. Open communication is essential, and we will ensure you feel safe in our care. With our open hearts, our commitment to care, and our fully integrated spectrum of treatments from detox to inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab, and beyond, we can help you stop using meth, reframe your life, and learn the behaviors, skills, and recovery tools you will need to move forward in your life as a drug-free individual. Our outpatient care can be extended to last as long as you need, and we will connect you with a sober community you can count on long-term. Call us at (800) 426-1818 today to find out more about our gay-friendly drug rehab in Los Angeles and how we can help you stop using meth for good. The post The Crisis of Meth Addiction Among Gay Men appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/the-crisis-of-meth-addiction-among-gay-men/ What Is Outpatient Addiction Treatment?Outpatient drug rehab in Los Angeles is a category of drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs in which the patient does not live inside the walls of the treatment center full-time. There are multiple types of outpatient drug rehab programs available to choose from. Depending on your unique needs, preferences, and budget, your outpatient program may include support groups, dual diagnosis treatment, doctor’s visits, education, therapy, counseling sessions, and other therapies and sober activities.
Outpatient programs are best suited to disciplined and motivated people in their own recovery. Still, they cannot easily step away from their home life, work, or school to enter a residential rehab program, requiring a flexible program to work around their schedule. With an outpatient rehab program, you will gain a strong support network that will remain with you for as long as you need, including professional support, peer support, and family counseling. Types of Outpatient Drug Rehab Programs in Los AngelesTo the question, “Can drug rehab be done as an outpatient?” The short answer is yes. If your addiction is caught in the early phases or a mild substance abuse problem, then your drug rehab can be done in an outpatient program. There are various outpatient drug rehabs for Los Angeles residents. At Muse Treatment, we offer: Partial Hospitalization/Day ProgramsThese are programs that provide a high level of care and structure, in which a patient will live outside the facility but commute in for full days of treatment, usually five to seven days per week. Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers up to seven days per week of full days of groups, therapy, educational seminars, meetings, and appointments. If you cannot join inpatient rehab, you may wish to enter the PHP but require strong guidance and support, medical and psychiatric care, or need a gradual transition from detox into your everyday life without becoming overwhelmed. If you are worried you may relapse after detox but cannot enter a full 30-day inpatient program, then PHP may be a good place for you to start. Our expert intake specialists will be able to help you make this decision, ensuring you receive the best treatments for your individual needs and wishes. Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)An IOP is a flexible, milestone-based treatment program where the patient lives outside the treatment center and schedules groups, therapy, and other treatments around their work or school schedules, usually coming in to attend treatment a few days per week in the evenings or weekends. At Muse Treatment, our IOP is a customizable, flexible program that will give you the space you need to return to work or other responsibilities as quickly as possible. This allows you to return to your daily routine, with plenty of sobriety support and programs provided through therapy, groups, and other treatments scheduled for you in the evenings or on weekends. Continuing Care ProgramsContinuing Care Programs include a continued connection to your therapist and medical team if you need it, as well as peer support and joining groups like 12-step programs or other guided peer support groups. These support groups make sure you always have somewhere to turn in your recovery, even months or years after you complete your rehab program. Addiction is a chronic condition, so maintaining these connections to a sober community is vital to ensure you have somewhere to turn when you hit the inevitable bumps in the road. We have a strong community of current and past patients at Muse Treatment who meet in group therapy, 12-step programs, and more. We can help you find a halfway house or another sober living home if your current housing situation is not ideal for sober living, and we are always here for you if you need extra help. There is no reason for you to ever feel alone in your recovery when you join us at Muse Treatment. Benefits of Outpatient Drug RehabSome of the significant benefits of an outpatient drug rehab program in Los Angeles include:
Outpatient vs. Inpatient Drug RehabWhile outpatient rehab in Los Angeles is the more flexible option, inpatient drug rehab is an essential step for many patients who require a separation from the people, places, and stress of their everyday lives to truly focus on their healing and growth without distraction or temptation. Short-term (30 days) and long-term (60 to 90 days) rehab programs are available. Inpatient rehab is beneficial for many patients because you will:
A stay in inpatient rehab may be recommended to our clients at Muse before outpatient rehab is feasible. Some factors can affect whether you are ready to be in outpatient care, including:
Outpatient Drug Rehab at Muse in Los AngelesMuse Treatment offers outpatient drug rehab Los Angeles residents can count on. When you first join us, we will give you a full screening for physical and mental health issues, and we will interview you to find out more about your history of drug use and find out what you want to get out of rehab. With this information, we can determine whether you need to spend some time in inpatient rehab and whether outpatient rehab is right for you. We offer an inpatient medical detox program that will allow us to see you through the difficult withdrawal symptoms that come with drug and alcohol detox, keeping you safe and as comfortable as possible as the substances leave your system. Our outpatient rehab program includes three main facets: therapy, 12-step integration, and case management. We will help you find your underlying causes of addiction, work on recovery skills, regain your physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. We will also help you change your outlook on life, providing a community of like-minded sober individuals and helping you reintegrate back into your life through life skills and vocational programs. Some of the therapies and treatments we offer at our facility include:
The longer you remain in a rehab program with us, the more likely you are to succeed in maintaining your recovery long-term. Contact Muse Treatment at (800) 426-1818 today to learn more about our inpatient and outpatient drug rehab Los Angeles programs available to you. Our experts will assist you in deciding where to start, and they will help you create a recovery plan that will work for you, your needs, and your lifestyle. The post Can Drug Rehab be Done as an Outpatient in Los Angeles? appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/can-drug-rehab-be-done-as-an-outpatient-in-los-angeles/ Opioid Pain ManagementIt is safe to say every person on this earth experiences pain at one point or another. At times that pain can be extreme and overpowering. After a severe injury or surgery, physicians may prescribe a short-term course of opioid painkillers. They can also prescribe long-term opioid painkillers for individuals with chronic pain, such as cancer or other debilitating health issues. However, because of past problems with opioids or out of concern of developing a dependence on them, pain management for people with opioid addiction can be challenging, making alternative pain management very important. Opioids work by interacting with opioid receptors in the brain to relieve pain. Some of the most commonly prescribed opioid painkillers include oxycodone, codeine, morphine, and hydrocodone, and name brands include OxyContin, Vicodin, and Percocet.
Short-term opioid painkiller prescriptions are usually given to individuals experiencing acute pain, like broken bones or after surgery. Many people can use these painkillers for a short while without any problem. Still, the rewarding properties on the brain can sometimes cause misuse, which can lead to opioid use disorders and increase the chances for certain health risks like an overdose. There are also long-term opioid prescriptions for those with chronic pain. Chronic pain is classified as pain that lasts longer than three months or has been persistent beyond the time of a normal healing process. About 100 million Americans suffer daily pain, but many studies do not support the long-term benefits of opioid use in managing chronic pain. Risk of Opioid Addiction from Pain MedsEven though many people take opioids for more extended periods without developing an addiction, long-term opioid use has a higher tendency to lead to misuse. Current studies show that around 21% to 29% of people who take opioids for chronic pain misuse them, and approximately 8% to 12% will develop an opioid use disorder. Opioids tend to lead to a substance use disorder because of their chemical structure and impact on the brain. Their molecular structure allows them to bind and activate specialized proteins throughout the body known as opioid receptors, most of which are found in the brain. A person’s perception of pain is altered when these receptors are activated. Besides reducing pain and having an analgesic effect, opioid receptor activation also increases dopamine levels, a brain chemical that reinforces reward and pleasure sensations. For some people, these sensations are more powerful and develop a need to keep experiencing them repeatedly. Prolonged opioid use can develop an opioid use disorder and increase the likelihood of an opioid overdose. An estimated 47,000 Americans died from an opioid overdose in 2017. The most common medications involved in overdose deaths are methadone, oxycodone, and hydrocodone, although the prescription opioid abuse problems extend beyond these three medications. Anyone can be at risk for an opioid use disorder, but studies show that women are more at risk than men. Women who struggle with chronic pain conditions are more likely to prescribe opioid painkillers and take opioids for more extended periods. Other evidence shows that women may become dependent on opioids quicker than men. Opioid Alternatives for Pain ManagementThere are many other options to help control pain, whether acute or chronic. Some of the options include non-opioid drugs, alternative therapies (such as acupuncture, physical therapy, herbal medicine, and yoga), and counseling that can be used to manage pain. Many people choose alternatives to opioids because of a history of a use disorder or fear of developing an opioid addiction. Non-Opioid Medications for PainNon-opioid drugs can be an excellent alternative for pain management for people with opioid addiction or who want to avoid opioids. Some of the common non-opioid medications include:
Antidepressants, like duloxetine, amitriptyline, and nortriptyline Some of these alternative options are more effective than others depending on the type of pain. While they carry their own set of risks with use, studies have shown that non-opioid medications can effectively manage a variety of chronic pain syndromes. Drug-Free Pain Management OptionsResearchers are studying more and more how several types of non-pharmaceutical therapies can effectively manage pain. These include:
Therapies and counseling are also effective for managing pain. A recent study showed that physical therapy is an effective tool in managing chronic lower back pain. Several types of behavioral therapies have also shown great effectiveness in managing chronic pain, which includes
Both therapy methods have shown excellent results in adjusting psychologically to pain and coping with it. Treating Pain as an Underlying Cause of AddictionFor some, their addiction to opioids is rooted in physical pain. They may have been prescribed an opioid painkiller for an injury, surgery, or chronic pain, resulting in opioid misuse. Treating pain as an underlying cause of addiction is essential to help someone with long-term recovery. If the person is only treated for their addiction and not the pain is still present, they may go back to using opioids to deal with the pain. It is essential to know that recovering from opioid addiction does not mean you will have to live your life with physical pain. Some treatment centers may include therapies to manage pain or heal the injury or allow clients to receive these treatments outside the facility while they are recovering so they can leave their program not only with recovery but also pain-free. These alternative therapies may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, physical therapy, and counseling. These alternative therapies help with the physical pain they may have been experiencing before their addiction and help with some of the ongoing withdrawal symptoms of addiction to opioids. Addiction treatment helps find long-term coping mechanisms for behavioral issues around addiction and physical problems, such as pain. Recovery from opioid use disorders involves treatment and continuous aftercare to maintain recovery. Some of these can include:
Finding Treatment for Opioid AddictionAddiction to opioids can take hold of any person quickly. Professional treatment is necessary for anyone who is no longer in control of their life due to their opioid use. Finding a treatment center as soon as possible will increase your long-term recovery chances. Treatment may start with medical detox to help manage withdrawal symptoms more comfortably and safely under the supervision of medical professionals. Opioid withdrawal can be excruciating and long, including psychologically. Then depending on the severity of the addiction, there may be different levels of care recommended. These can include inpatient programs, outpatient programs, and intensive outpatient programs. Regardless of which level of care you choose, they will consist of different forms of therapy such as individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. Choosing the right treatment center for pain management for people with opioid addiction that fits your needs and goals is one of the most critical parts of long-term recovery. When choosing a place, the location can be substantial. For example, if you choose inpatient care, a distant location could make it more likely for you to commit to treatment and focus on yourself without outside influences. Which places your insurance covers can also be an essential factor in reducing out-of-pocket costs. Many insurance plans do cover out-of-state treatment programs. At Muse Treatment Center, we offer a comprehensive level of care offering pain management for people with opioid addiction. We offer many treatment programs suited for a range of opioid addiction severities, and each plan is tailored to each client. Our intake team is always available to provide you with information, check your insurance coverage, and answer any questions you may have. There is no better time than now to start your journey to recovery. Please give us a call today at (800) 426-1818. The post Pain Management for People With Opioid Addiction appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/pain-management-for-people-with-opioid-addiction/ Benefits of Hiking in Addiction TreatmentOne of the incredible things that you will learn while in recovery from addiction is that it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn more about yourself. When you’re lost in the trap of addiction, you tend to lose track of the real you. Instead, your life revolves around where you can get your drug or drink of choice and how you will maintain your high. To truly make the most out of your addiction treatment, you must remain open to all aspects of the experiences you will have during your time in drug or alcohol rehab and the insight that your treatment team and other people are working through their own treatment program.
The first step you take in recovery will be to reach out to an intake team at your facility of choice. From there, the intake team will have an abundance of questions for you that you need to answer openly and honestly to ensure you receive the care you need. In most cases, this will mean that you need to begin your treatment program in a detox program. Detox usually lasts anywhere between seven and ten days and provides you with the foundation for the rest of your treatment plan. During the first 72 hours of your sobriety, your body will work toward expelling your drug or drink of choice from your system. Also, you will begin to experience cravings which can also make you feel sick. As you experience your withdrawal symptoms, you should always be surrounded by a team of addiction experts, as these symptoms could be potentially dangerous and deadly. For example, at Muse Treatment Center, we pride ourselves on working quickly to set you up with a detox program so you’re never left in this potentially deadly situation. Just because you finish detox doesn’t mean that you have recovered from your addiction. There is still more work that needs to be done when developing the foundation of your sobriety, and that work is done through committing to an alcohol or drug rehab program. With the help of your treatment team, you will need to decide whether you are going to commit to an inpatient or an outpatient program. When possible, it’s recommended that you commit to working through an inpatient program because, in many ways, it is an extension of a detox program. You will experience around-the-clock support from your treatment team while in recovery, and you will be able to interact with other people working through their own recovery program. Many people are unable to engage in an inpatient program for one reason or another. For example, if you’re working or going to school part-time or full-time, it would be impossible for you to participate in an inpatient program. However, this does not mean that you cannot receive care for your addiction. Instead, you can opt to work through an outpatient program. During outpatient treatment, you will work closely with your recovery team to develop a program based on your unique schedule. For instance, if there are certain times of the day or days in general that you’re unable to participate in treatment, your program will be structured around the days and times that you are available. If your schedule changes, be sure to let your treatment team know so they can make adjustments to your current treatment plan. Both inpatient and outpatient treatment come with the requirement of participating in therapy. Therapy will help you develop a better understanding of the disease of addiction and address the root causes of your addiction while in recovery. Openly participating in treatment during drug rehab is critical when it comes to overcoming your addiction once and for all. Why Spending Time in Nature Is Great for SobrietyWhen you’re working through your sobriety journey, one of the things that are strongly recommended is that you take the time to enjoy the great outdoors. There are several reasons why you should do this. First and foremost, sometimes getting some fresh air is all you need to help you feel calmer and more relaxed. Also, during the time that you were in active addiction, it’s possible that your overall Vitamin D consumption suffered for one reason or another. Typically, a person in active addiction will spend more time indoors. The sun’s UV rays are a natural source of Vitamin D; therefore, your body may have difficulty consuming this vital vitamin when you spend more time indoors. Getting outside and enjoying some time in the sun can help you feel happier and healthier. However, keep in mind that you should always take proper precautions against the sun and wear sunscreen anytime you’re outdoors. Exercise Promotes Healthy New HabitsKeep in mind that if hiking doesn’t appeal to you, there are several other types of exercises you can take part in to help you set healthy and sober habits. Some examples of activities that you may want to incorporate into your schedule include:
Realistically the list of exercise possibilities can go on and on. A good rule of thumb is to take the time to try each one to get a better idea of what you like and what you don’t. One of the goals that you will have when you’re in treatment is setting yourself up with a healthy routine that will always help you be conscious of the sober goals you have for yourself. There may be certain times when you feel completely overwhelmed by certain aspects of your day while in recovery. Whereas you may have looked forward to indulging in your drink or drug of choice when you were in active addiction, now you can look forward to participating in a good workout and getting out any frustration or anxiety in a healthy way. Remember, there is no right or wrong answer regarding the best time to work out. Ultimately, the decision is yours. You can opt to work out early in the morning before your day starts, or you can wait till after work and do it in the evening. Great Hikes In and Around Beverly HillsAre you ready to lace up your hiking boots and experience some of the great hiking sites in and around the Beverly Hills area? If the answer is yes, you’re in luck because there are plenty of great hiking trails local to this area of California. Here are some of the locations that you may want to check out: Baldwin Hills Scenic OverlookIf you’re looking for a quick and easy hike, Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is the best option for you. One of the nice things about this hiking trail is that it’s on the shorter side, and it should take about 45 minutes for a novice hiker to climb up one side of the trail and then an additional 45 minutes to climb down the other. True to its name, this hiking trail offers fantastic views, so if you do decide to venture out to this location, you should always bring a camera along with you to enjoy the scenery. 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232 Coldwater Canyon ParkColdwater Canyon Park is a unique location because it features a hiking trail and a fun playground, making it a perfect option if you plan to go to this site with younger members of your family or friends. If you plan to go on a hike, you want to ensure that you have the appropriate hiking gear, as certain parts of this trail may get a bit steep or rugged. 1100 N Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Franklin Canyon ParkFranklin Canyon Park is a fun location that features a beautiful environment and different hiking challenges. One of the best parts about this location is that it’s pet-friendly, which means bringing your furry friend along on your adventure. Franklin Canyon Park is open seven days a week but only during particular hours, so you may want to check ahead to ensure that the venue is open during the time that you want to go. 2600 Franklin Canyon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 If you’re ready to change your life and commit to a treatment plan that will address the addiction issues that you’ve struggled with, the Muse Treatment Center is here to assist you. We have an intake team standing by around the clock so you can start developing a plan for addiction treatment around your unique schedule. If you have further questions or concerns about what you can expect while in recovery, please get in touch with us today at (800) 426-1818. The post Thriving in Recovery: Best Hikes in and Around Beverly Hills appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/thriving-in-recovery-best-hikes-in-and-around-beverly-hills/ How Teens Talk About Drugs OnlineWith social media becoming a hot spot for illicit drug sales, which are often laced with deadly substances like fentanyl, there are several drug-related emojis every parent should know to help protect their kids from the dangers they face online. We have created a guide for drug-related emojis kids may use when buying drugs on social media. It has never been easier for teens to buy drugs online from people they meet on social media. While moderation of popular platforms such as Snapchat, Instagram, and other social media platforms tries to prevent these sales, drug dealers are still openly selling drugs that are often counterfeit prescription drugs laced with fentanyl. It is leading to a massive surge in drug overdose deaths, which saw a 30% increase in fatalities in 2020.
The primary way these dealers advertise and communicate with the youth on social media is through emojis that parents could not understand what they mean. You can take several steps to help your child avoid the dangers of fake pills laced with fentanyl, which we will discuss below. Whether through algorithms designed to pick up keywords or through the fear of being caught trying to buy drugs from a dealer, teens use emojis as a code to talk about all types of drugs, their interest in buying, and being high. Emojis are typically harmless and widely used by teens, but certain ones have become a way of buying drugs on social media. It can take just a string of two or three emojis to request to buy illicit drugs such as fake Xanax, Oxycodone, and Percocet, among others. With just a few emojis, they can indicate to a potential dealer that they want a prescription drug delivered to them. While teens will continue to use emojis to express their thoughts and emotions instead of writing out words, every parent should know that being aware of drug-related emojis will empower you to help your teen before the worst happens. 19 Drug-Related Emojis and What They MeanBuying drugs on social media is done by using a few emojis that in some way reflect slang or something related to buying or using drugs. While these emojis can indicate your child is buying drugs on social media, it’s not definitive, and establishing open communication with your kids and educating them on the dangers is most important. The drug-related emojis every parent should know, covering prescription and other drugs, include the following:
Another aspect of drug-related emojis every parent should know is the people they are buying from. Generally, teens on social media don’t purchase drugs from complete strangers but rather through someone their friends suggested or a friend of a friend. They often follow a drug dealer’s profile, and then the drug dealer will start sending messages filled with emojis to advertise their illicit drugs. Fentanyl-Laced Drugs and The Dangers of Buying Drugs OnlineThe actual danger of teens buying drugs online is the rise of fentanyl-laced drugs. Since fentanyl came onto the recreational drug scene, it has been added to all types of drugs, even marijuana. Fentanyl is a potent opioid estimated to be around 50 times more powerful than heroin on average. However, it is produced cheaply, and just a small amount can add extreme potency to any drug. Today, drug dealers are adding fentanyl to their products ranging from counterfeit prescription drugs, heroin, meth, and cocaine to ecstasy, marijuana, and other illicit designer drugs. It essentially means that any drug bought through social media or drug dealers may result in a fatal overdose from the opioid fentanyl. Law enforcement, the CDC, and other agencies assessing the situation have reported over 100,000 overdose deaths from April 2020 to April 2021. Experts agree that because drug dealers have moved from dark alleyways to social media allowing teens to buy drugs from the comfort of their bedroom is a significant cause of the sudden increase of deaths. One of the other risks of buying drugs on social media is that kids are buying from people they know or through friends of friends. It creates a false sense of trust that who they are buying from will be safe, but the truth is that the dealers often have no clue what’s inside of their drugs. Fentanyl requires precise measurements that cannot be done with the naked eye. Drug dealers are often unknowingly selling drugs on social media that can kill someone. It has never been more important to open a conversation about buying drugs on social media and the many dangers involved with the trend of fentanyl-laced drugs. Any drug, even ones that are usually safe, such as marijuana, is now being laced with fentanyl, leading to drug overdose deaths among the youth. With no legitimate oversight by the drug dealers and their suppliers, illicit drugs from untrusted sources should be avoided at all costs because every pill or dose can be the last. How to Talk to Your Kids About Fentanyl and Other DrugsProviding your kids with the information they need to better understand the current crisis with fentanyl-laced drugs is the best form of defense against drug overdose deaths and substance use disorder (addiction). Firstly, understand that they aren’t buying illicit drugs from total strangers but rather friends or friends of friends. Painting a picture of strangers selling drugs online might make your kids believe that buying from someone they know to some degree is okay. These are people that your kids trust. The key is to create a safe space to talk about sensitive topics like buying drugs on social media. The discussions shouldn’t be limited to just drugs but also their interests such as music taste, games they enjoy playing, and other interests. Showing that you are interested in their life by enjoying their music with them or trying a game with them can help make the safe space that allows you to delve into topics such as whether their friends have bought illicit drugs online and if they’ve been thinking about doing the same. The safe space environment should be one where you don’t force your opinion onto them but rather approach it as an ally and not something to be overcome. It’s essential to keep your emotions under control because while you see illicit drugs as a severe threat, your kids may not yet, and if you approach it with guns blazing, you may get an undesirable response. Some of the critical facts that you will want to convey and educate your teens on include the rise of fentanyl-laced drugs added to every type of drug today. Estimates based on seized fake pills say that two in every five illicit pills contain enough fentanyl to kill an adult. Furthermore, the counterfeit pills available on Snapchat and other social media are fake pills made to look exactly like real prescription drugs. A natural prescription Xanax pill, for example, is not going to lead to death with just one pill, but the same is not valid for fake drugs where the ingredients are unknown and not controlled at all. Another important fact that you should educate your kids on is that even if a potential drug dealer on social media has sold to friends of your child and it was fine, it doesn’t mean that the next pill won’t be deadly. The dealers don’t know what’s in their drugs, and their confidence means very little when the facts show the very high levels of fentanyl-laced drugs on the market today. Educate yourself and find support networks that will help you be a good parent in today’s world. Muse Treatment offers a great place to find the resources you need to keep up with the latest trends in youth substance abuse. If your teen is abusing drugs already, then Muse Treatment can help through family therapy and comprehensive addiction treatment programs to help them overcome their substance abuse in a sustainable way. Call (800) 426-1818 today if you want any assistance whatsoever with helping your kids overcome substance abuse. The post 19 Drug-Related Emojis Every Parent Should Know appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/19-drug-related-emojis-every-parent-should-know/ Why Healthy Eating Is Important in Addiction TreatmentWhen you were in active addiction, you probably fell into harmful behaviors other than just abusing your drug or drink of choice. It’s important to remember that addiction is an example of a disease that can change everything about you. Your body has a physical and psychological response to drugs or drinking, impacting other aspects of your life. For example, many people who have an alcohol addiction will likely come to find that their entire diet is thrown off. They may not eat because they don’t want any of the food that is in their system to sober them up, or they may find at a certain point that they are incredibly hungry and not only overeat but choose to eat foods that simply aren’t healthy for them. When you’re ready to take steps toward being in recovery, and you’re prepared to commit to working with an experienced addiction treatment center, you will undoubtedly learn many things about yourself during your treatment journey. You will also have a better understanding of healthier choices that you can make for yourself regarding what you eat and your thinking overall. One of the most important decisions you will need to make when you settle on a treatment facility is committing to an inpatient or an outpatient program. If you opt to work through an inpatient program, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that your treatment team will be available to you around the clock whenever you need them. Something else that you will also be provided with is a home away from home type of environment. This includes access to an abundance of healthy and nutritious meals while in recovery. Including healthy eating habits into your overall treatment plan can help you set and maintain a better structure for your everyday life.
Many people cannot commit to an inpatient program at a drug rehab facility for one reason or another. In many cases, a person is unable to commit to an inpatient program because they have full-time or even part-time work or school responsibilities. If you fall into this category, you would be more well-suited for an outpatient program. An outpatient program is more suited for a person that needs a more flexible schedule during drug or alcohol rehab. During this period, you will work closely with your treatment team to develop a plan where you don’t feel you need to choose between your sobriety or seeing to the other responsibilities you have in your life. Farmers Markets Make a Great Sober Activity for People in RecoveryThere are several reasons to frequent a farmers’ market over and above just the fantastic food they have at these locations. During your time in treatment, you will learn more about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right type of people. This is primarily done through you taking part in different forms of therapy. Regardless of your level of care, during the time that you’re in addiction treatment in West Hollywood, you can expect to participate in the following forms of therapy: Individual therapyIndividual therapy will help you to truly focus on yourself while in recovery with your treatment team. There may be traumatic events in your life that you simply don’t feel comfortable talking about when you’re in group therapy. Individual therapy will help you conquer these traumatic events that may be holding you back from truly recovering. Also, it’s an excellent opportunity to assess your treatment program to ensure you’re still on the right track when it comes to treatment. Group therapyGroup therapy will help you learn how to interact and communicate with other people working through their own treatment programs. This will get you into the habit of feeling comfortable sharing your life and experiences, which could open the door to developing meaningful and lasting relationships with other people who can provide you with a unique level of support. Behavioral therapyDuring the time that you were in active addiction, it’s probable that you fell into the habit of several destructive behaviors. Behavioral therapy will allow you to identify those behaviors and learn what you can do to change them while in recovery. This process will help you remain focused on the goals you have for yourself during your recovery journey. Family therapyIf you have lost relationships with certain family members due to your addiction, family therapy can help you rebuild and redevelop those relationships. Family therapy takes place only when you are ready to tackle this aspect of your life and recovery. Each session will take place in a neutral type of environment, so everyone feels comfortable during it. You may find that the support and encouragement from your family is an invaluable resource that helps keep you focused on the ultimate goals you have for your sobriety. Also, it may be fun to visit some of the local farmers’ markets with your loved ones. With the new tools that you learn during your time in therapy, you will feel more comfortable and relaxed when it comes to communicating with other people at the farmers’ market and in life in general. When you’re at a farmers’ market, you will have the opportunity to meet new people and share common interests. You can ask them for help when it comes to identifying particular food that you want to incorporate into your daily routine or simply connect in a friendly manner. Not only are farmers’ markets filled with exciting people, but they also provide an excellent opportunity to get outside in the fresh air. Taking this step is a wonderful way to clear your mind and reset your overall thinking. You may find that you feel more relaxed and less stressed at the end of your time at a farmers’ market because you gave yourself a chance to focus on something different than whatever problem you had at hand. Check Out These West Hollywood Farmers MarketsAre you ready to see what the Farmers Markets in West Hollywood have to offer? If the answer is yes, then why not check out some of these great venues: Melrose Place Farmers MarketMelrose Place Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM. Not only does this farmers’ market have an abundance of fantastic fresh produce, but several local vendors set up shop here and offer other products such as homemade jewelry. Although this farmers’ market is only open for a short amount of time, it wouldn’t be out of the ordinary for a person to spend the entire four hours exploring the different aspects of this location. 8400 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90069 West Hollywood Helen Albert Certified Farmers MarketThe West Hollywood Helen Albert Certified Farmers Market is known for having all of the fresh food staples you need to make a delicious meal. This farmers market is open every week on Monday between 9 AM and 2 PM with vendors that offer fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, and other food assortments. This farmers’ market is relatively small, so a good rule of thumb is to get to it as soon as it opens to ensure you can get everything you need before the vendors sell out of anything. 1200 N Vista St, West Hollywood, CA 90046 Hollywood Farmers MarketIf you’re interested in spending your morning at a local farmers’ market, the Hollywood Farmers Market is a wonderful option. This market is open every Sunday between 8 AM and 1 PM and supplies nearly any type of fresh food. From sweet fruit that you can incorporate into your daily routine as a snack to vital proteins that will help you feel fit and strong, you will undoubtedly find every type of food at this location. Not only that, but some vendors will sell meals that you can take home and eat on the spot, which takes the guesswork out of your meal preparation for that day. 1600 Ivar Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028 If you have come to a place in your life where you are indeed ready to overcome addiction, the Muse Treatment Center team is here to help. We understand the struggle and chaos often caused by addiction, so we do everything that we can to help you through this critical time in your life. If you’re ready to take this step to be in recovery, we encourage you to get in touch with us today at (800) 426-1818. The post Thriving in Recovery: West Hollywood Farmers Markets for Healthy Local Food appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/thriving-in-recovery-west-hollywood-farmers-markets-for-healthy-local-food/ A Guide to Glendale Drug DetoxWhen a person is ready to commit to an addiction treatment plan, they often think about the more practical part of their plan. Are they going to commit to an inpatient or outpatient treatment program? How long do they want to commit to that treatment plan? What will they experience during their drug addiction treatment plan? Although these are understandable questions and concerns, you may need to begin your addiction treatment program in a drug detox program depending on the severity of the addiction. As experienced addiction professionals, the team at Muse Treatment Center wants to provide you with a comprehensive guide regarding the drug detox for Glendale residents so you feel comfortable and at ease with every phase of your recovery journey.
What Is Drug Detox?The premise of drug detox near Glendale is to provide you with the care you need during the early stages of your recovery journey. Within mere hours from when you last take your drug of choice, you will begin to feel the impact of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms will only get worse as time goes by, which is why it’s critical that you reach out for help sooner rather than later. Drug detox for Glendale residents is designed to be the basis of your recovery journey. How Do You Feel During Drug Detox?It’s impossible to tell exactly how and what you will feel during your time in detox since drug detox impacts every person differently. There are several different types of withdrawal symptoms that you may feel during this time which is why you should never try to manage this part of your treatment on your own. Examples of withdrawal symptoms that you may feel during the time that you’re in detox can include:
Tapering Off Drugs During DetoxIt may not be advisable for a person to completely stop taking your drug of choice in one shot in certain situations. If you fall into this category, one of the best things you can do is work with a drug detox facility that gives you the chance to taper off your drug of choice in a controlled type of environment. If you decide to work with the Muse Treatment Center, you will have different consultations with medical staff who can provide you with a game plan for your detox approach. If the tapering-off method is in your best interests, you can rest assured that you will be in excellent hands from the start of your detox to the finish. Benefits of Detoxing in a Medical SettingThere are several advantages of deciding to detox in a medical environment. In fact, it’s strongly encouraged in the addiction community. Here are just a few examples of how taking this step can be beneficial in your overall recovery: Begins your recovery journey on the right footWhen you’re still lost amid addiction, it may be all but impossible for you to truly focus on the essential lessons you will learn when you’re in treatment. Detox allows you to remove the influence of your drug of choice from your system so you can have a better focus and a more meaningful approach to your recovery. It can be potentially life-savingYou may experience life-threatening consequences during the time that you’re in detox. The withdrawal symptoms that you feel may not only be severe to the point where you may not be able to take care of yourself, but you may find yourself in a position where the combination of withdrawal symptoms that you feel could be fatal. The peace of mind that comes with being in a safe and secure location is invaluable during this time. Support through medicationMany people don’t realize that there are different types of medications that are available that will help reduce the severe impact of withdrawal symptoms. This is why it’s critically important that you disclose entirely the drugs you’re addicted to and the number of drugs you are taking so your treatment team can set you up properly with a detox plan that will reduce the stress and chaos of withdrawal symptoms. How Long Does Detox Last?On average, your time in detox will last anywhere between seven and ten days. Although this may seem like an extended amount of time, the reality is that it’s necessary to ensure that you are in a good place to truly commit to your addiction treatment program. If your addiction is more severe or depending on your drug of choice, there is always the possibility that you may need more time in a detox program. Your treatment team will continue to monitor your progress and provide you with an update when it comes to modifying your time in drug detox in any way. What Happens After Detox?It’s important to remember that a drug detox program is only the first step in your overall recovery journey. Although you will likely feel much better both physically and psychologically after your time in detox, a rehab program is where you will start to take a deep dive into the contributing factors of your addiction. A critical decision that you will need to make is whether you will commit to a residential treatment program or an outpatient program. Therefore, you must understand the vital distinctions between the two. In many ways, inpatient treatment is a continuation of drug detox in Glendale. During inpatient treatment, you will enjoy the around-the-clock care offered by a top-notch treatment team. This can provide you with an added sense of comfort when it comes to someone always being available to see to any physical or psychological needs you may have. On the other hand, outpatient treatment is a more flexible treatment option. There are many people under the mistaken impression that the only way to truly overcome their addiction is by committing to an inpatient program. The reality is that once you have the drive and the determination to truly tackle your addiction, you can accomplish anything. If you have a job or you’re going to school, then it’s possible that you may not be able to commit to an inpatient program. In this case, you would be the perfect candidate for an outpatient program. There are different types of outpatient programs. For example, many people feel more comfortable with an intensive outpatient program because it doesn’t require the comprehensive commitment that comes along with an inpatient program. However, it provides them with a high level of care compared to a general outpatient program. Yet, many more people simply cannot commit to an intensive outpatient program because of their schedule. If you fall into this category, you would be more well-suited for a general outpatient program. Your treatment team will speak with you in greater detail about these options when the time comes. Regardless of the type of program you commit to, you will need to actively participate in different forms of therapy in order to truly conquer your addiction. Identifying the root cause of your addiction and understanding how these events ultimately impact your sobriety is vital in your recovery. The types of therapy that you can expect to participate in during this period include:
Although it may feel uncomfortable sharing during therapy, overall, therapy will give you an excellent opportunity to heal and develop relationships with other people working through their own treatment program and make connections with your treatment team. You may come to find that other people at your addiction treatment center are similar to yours, which can result in a healthy and supportive relationship. Maintaining good communication with your treatment team can also confirm that you are on the right track when it comes to your treatment plan direction and helps you feel more confident in the steps you’re taking. The Muse Treatment Center intake team is available right now to help you put plans together for not only your time in drug detox in Glendale but also an overall recovery plan. We take great pride in getting to know every client that reaches out to us for help personally, and our team believes that this approach can help every person make more out of their time in treatment. If you’re ready to take this step, we encourage you to get in touch with us today at (800) 426-1818 and learn more about what we can offer you. The post Drug Detox Glendale appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/drug-detox-glendale/ Benefits of Practicing Yoga in Addiction TreatmentIf you have fallen into bad habits, it can be challenging to break them. Addiction, in many ways, can start as a bad habit. You fall into the bad habit of picking up a drink as soon as you get out of work, or you spend time lost in a drug-induced haze every weekend. However, slowly but surely, these bad habits begin to take over your life until you feel as though you completely lose yourself in them. When you get to that point, you must step up and take control of your life. When you decide to commit to an addiction treatment program, you open the door to several possibilities for being in recovery.
To truly take advantage of these opportunities, the first step you may need to take is committing to a detox program. Detox gives you the chance to remove the influence of your drug or drink of choice in a safe and controlled environment. Keep in mind that it is highly probable that you will experience specific withdrawal symptoms within just a few hours from your last take of this substance. This typically happens within the first 72 hours from the last time you consume the substance. An experienced treatment team at a drug or alcohol rehab center will know what steps to take to ensure that no serious harm ever comes to you while in recovery. From there, you will be in a better frame of mind both physically and psychologically to focus on the steps that you need to take to truly overcome your addiction. Regardless of whether you opt to commit to an inpatient or an outpatient program, you will be exposed to new concepts or experiences that can completely change your thoughts on recovery. One of the things that you will experience during your recovery is yoga. Many people that engage in yoga during the time that they are in treatment enjoy the following benefits: Improved physical appearanceYoga forces you to use muscles that you may have never used before. As a result, you may notice that you start to lose weight or simply have a better definition and tone to your overall physical appearance. A structured scheduleAny person who has ever grappled with addiction will tell you that nearly every aspect of their life was out of control when they were in active addiction. One of the critical things that were missing was a set schedule. Setting time aside each day or a few times a week to do a yoga class can help you seamlessly fall into a healthier routine and schedule, which tends to impact your overall health and well-being positively. Improved self-awarenessA focal point of yoga is to be conscious of each movement you make. This concentration can help you be more aware of your reactions when you’re doing yoga and in your life in general. Keep in mind that there are also fantastic benefits associated with exercise in general. Therefore, if you find that yoga is not exactly your cup of tea, you can always opt to take up running, walking, weight lifting, or biking while in recovery. Anything that keeps your body moving and focused on developing healthy and beneficial habits will help you to maintain your sobriety in the future. Benefits of Meditation for People in RecoveryThere are many reasons why a person may want to take advantage of meditation, specifically if they are working through an addiction recovery program. Some examples of the benefits of incorporating meditation into your everyday routine include: Better focusMeditation helps you slow down the racing thoughts you may be experiencing. Racing thoughts typically plague a person going through addiction treatment, particularly in the beginning stages. By taking a moment and taking steps to talk yourself off the age, you will be able to focus on strategies that can help you solve the problem. Improved self-esteemAs you begin to develop a better sense of self-awareness while in recovery, you will quickly notice an improvement in your self-esteem. This can carry over into other aspects of your life. For example, you may see that you walk into meetings for work with your head held higher. You may be more willing to share your thoughts and opinions about certain subjects, which can help to improve your understanding of them. Reduce stressOne of the best things about meditation is that it can help to improve your overall stress level. Many people mistakenly believe that once they go through an addiction treatment program, they will never feel the impact of stress on their life again. The reality, however, is that you will likely feel some form of stress, but you will have a better understanding of how to manage that stress. Meditation can serve as one of the tools you use to manage your stress. Meditation will help you to appreciate your time in therapy all the more. In fact, you may notice that once you begin treatment and meditation while in recovery, you feel a sense of peace and calm that you may not have been able to recognize before. This means that you may have the opportunity to really dig into the root causes of your addiction so you can heal in every way possible from your addiction. This is when the proper recovery will take place. Yoga Studios in Beverly HillsAre you ready to try your hand at yoga for the first time after completing drug rehab? Perhaps you would like to get back into the process of practicing yoga regularly? Luckily, several yoga studios are in and around Beverly Hills that you can choose from. Here are some great options: Hot 8 YogaHot 8 Yoga is one of the most popular yoga studios in the Beverly Hills area, and for a good reason. This studio features a multitude of classes. Whether you are just beginning your yoga adventure or a seasoned yogi, you will undoubtedly find a class that you genuinely enjoy. One of the other marvelous highlights about this studio is that since the COVID-19 pandemic, they offer virtual courses. This is a great way to feel comfortable and at ease during your yoga class. However, you should always check ahead to ensure that the class you want to take is available that day and the time. 8383 Wilshire Blvd #75, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 Rise MovementOne of the best times to do yoga is first thing in the morning. There is something about completing a yoga session as the sun is coming up, which is incredibly calming and can help you better focus on the rest of your day. Rise Movement yoga studio offers classes as early as five o’clock in the morning, which gives you plenty of time to get in a yoga class before you have to start the hustle of your day. This location also offers personal training and strength training if you’re interested in continuing to expand your self-healing routine. 8535 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Sweat YogaHot yoga has taken over the yoga world by storm. During hot yoga, also known as sweat yoga, you can enhance your yoga experience by participating in a class in a room with an increased temperature. You will notice that you sweat more during these yoga sessions hence the name. One of the nice things about this studio is that they target their schedules around the schedule of a person who would traditionally have work. Classes typically take place either earlier in the morning or after regular work hours, but you should always check ahead for the schedule for that day. 8592 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 The Muse Treatment Center team focuses on providing our clients with nothing short of the best addiction treatment care available near Beverly Hills. From the moment you reach out to us, you will feel the difference in our approach to treatment. We take the opportunity to learn more about you so we can provide you with the personalized level of care you need during this stage of your addiction recovery journey. Regardless of whether you’re suffering from an addiction to drugs or alcohol, you can take comfort in the fact that our recovery team will be there with you and for you every step of the way at our drug and alcohol rehab center. For more information about what you can expect when you come to Muse Treatment Center for assistance, please give us a call today at (800) 426-1818. The post Thriving in Recovery: Yoga Studios in Beverly Hills appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/thriving-in-recovery-yoga-studios-in-beverly-hills/ Addiction Treatment and Mental Healthcare for LGBTQIA+Despite the progress society has made toward equal rights for those in the LGBTQIA+community, we continue to see disparities in their quality of care regarding mental health and addiction in LGBTQIA+. We know this is true because we see worse health outcomes and reduced access to care in this community than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. There are many reasons for lower healthcare in the LGBTQIA+ community, including lower insurance coverage rates, lack of cultural competence in the medical setting, higher rates of mental health issues, and discrimination from medical professionals. These disparities are even more significant if individuals are also part of a racial or ethnic minority group. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community are not inherently more prone to health issues. They have higher rates of health issues like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse due to systemic inequalities, which lead to lower care and worse health outcomes. Fears about not being accepted, bullying, rejection, discrimination, and sexual and physical abuse are very prevalent in the LGBTQIA+ community, putting them at higher risk for substance use and mental health disorders. As the addiction rate grows in this community, there is a growing need to provide resources for mental health and addiction in LGBTQIA+. Treatment centers that can help mental health and addiction in LGBTQIA+ can tailor treatment programs around designing individualized care with an inclusive, non-judgmental space to allow patients to express themselves freely and receive proper care. Many addiction treatment programs try to be unbiased, but individuals continue to face discrimination and do not feel fully supported. Rehabs specializing in LGBTQIA+ care have staff trained to understand barriers and challenges that gay, lesbian, transgender, etc., may face daily. Addiction rehabilitation for those in the LGBTQIA+ community may also need co-occurring disorder treatment. Co-occurring disorders include any combination of two or more substance abuse disorders and mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. With the high level of mental health disorders among LGBTQIA+, many turn to substance abuse to manage negative feelings. Addiction recovery is much more effective for long-term sobriety if treatment includes treating the underlying issues of addiction, such as mental health disorders. In addition, many traditional treatment centers fail to address specific tribulations regarding mental health and addiction in LGBTQIA+. These can include dealing and coping with social isolation, family issues, homophobia, and violence. Anxiety Among LGBTQIA+ IndividualsLGBTQIA+ have worse mental health outcomes than other communities, including anxiety. About 30% to 60% of gay men, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender people deal with anxiety or depression at some point in their lives, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). That is a 150% to 200% higher rate than their straight or gender-conforming counterparts. Every individual has their own unique challenges, but there are a lot of common themes among the community that contributes to anxiety disorders. Stigma is a big reason, and they face ridicule, discrimination, rejection, and trauma. Another significant factor is minority stress, which includes microaggressions, prejudice, discrimination, and at the extreme end, trauma from physical and sexual assault. All this also leads to anxiety, and LGBTQIA+ can also be less likely to find help for their anxiety because of fear of discrimination from health providers. Untreated stress can lead to many physical and mental health issues, including suicide. Depression in LGBTQIA+ CommunitiesDepression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the US. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, in our population, about 7% of people have depression at least once in their lives, and this rate is much higher in the LGBTQIA+ community. In 2019, 23% of LGB youth attempted suicide compared to 6% of heterosexual youth. Depression in LGBTQ adults is usually rooted in stigma, discrimination, and trauma. In a 2015 report from the American Medical Student Association (AMSA), about 20% of transgender people avoided receiving healthcare due to fear of discrimination. Youth in the LGBTQIA+ community are especially prone to depression, usually due to lack of representation in media, peers, or school, lack of access to information about what they are experiencing and who they are, and lack of access to the community. They are also at higher risk for teasing, bullying, and physical violence at school. Hostile school environment affects their performance in school, causing greater harm to their mental health. Homelife can also be challenging for many when their parents react negatively when they learn their child is LGBTQIA+. This causes them to be at higher risk for homelessness compared to heterosexual and cisgender youth. Alcohol Abuse and Addiction in LGBTQIA+According to the Alcohol Rehab Guide, about 5% to 10% of the general population has a moderate dependency on alcohol, but this problem is at about 25% of the LGBTQIA+ community. There are many reasons for this, mainly to cope with the stress of everyday discrimination. Another reason is there aren’t many queer-competent healthcare services, which fuels a high substance use rate. Also, many queer-friendly spaces are places where there is an increased use of alcohol, like gay bars, nightclubs, etc. Drug Use and Addiction in LGBTQIA+Drug use is also higher among LGBTQIA+ people, and a 2016 report found that drug misuse is higher among these individuals. The Journal of School Health published a study in 2017 that found that middle and high school students were 2.5 times more likely to use tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, and ecstasy. They were also more likely to misuse prescriptions, diet pills, Adderall, and cold medications. Many of the same reasons why LGBTQIA+ turn to alcohol are why they turn to drug misuse. Most of the time, they use drugs or alcohol to cope with negative feelings. Again, most of these mental health disorders come from discrimination and social stigma. Many members of the LGBTQIA+ community choose to keep their identity of who they are, or “in the closet,” due to fear of discrimination, being ostracized by friends and family, or sometimes not having the resources to identify what it is they are feeling. Living this double life can create stress, loneliness, anxiety, and depression, and they often turn to substance abuse to help dull the pain. Addiction Treatment and Mental Healthcare for LGBTQIA+ at Muse TreatmentAt Muse Treatment Center in Los Angeles, we provide a safe and inclusive space for every patient. We are an LGBTQIA+ friendly drug rehab facility providing support for mental health and addiction in LGBTQIA+. We train our staff to understand the unique struggles members of this community face. We encourage our LGBTQIA+ patients to release feelings of shame and be comfortable in their own bodies and minds during addiction treatment. It is important to treat addiction patterns by being vulnerable and looking at what has contributed to addiction. Our program treats each patient as an individual, and we look at each contributing factor that led to their addiction. A successful rehab program provides patients with the opportunity to connect with fellow patients who have undergone similar life experiences. At Muse Treatment Center, we aim to connect our LGBTQIA+ patients with one another to create a stronger sense of community and build a strong foundation of support. We also understand the high prevalence of co-occurring disorders among the LGBTQIA+ seeking substance abuse recovery. We emphasize treating these disorders and the addiction to get to the root of the problem. Patients will work with counselors individually and in group settings to better understand and heal their mental health. They will also learn new coping mechanisms to overcome triggers that may lead to a relapse. Healing from past traumas and emotional pain is key to finding long-term recovery. We are aware of the disparities in healthcare in the LGBTQIA+ community that has led many to seek substances to heal their pain and how it also leads to avoiding treatment. You can rest assured that our caring staff and environment will work alongside you to avoid any fears of discrimination inside our walls. Your safety and comfort are our number one priority, and we ensure a culture within our facility that is open, non-judgmental, and inclusive. As the addiction rate among LGBTQIA+ is a rising concern and the lack of properly inclusive rehab centers, we want to offer an option for those hesitant about getting help due to fear of the biases and discrimination they have felt most of their lives. We can help you overcome your addiction and give you a lifetime of community. Our team is ready to understand your unique story and help you reach the healthy, stress-free life you envisioned. If you or someone you know is looking for a treatment center specializing in mental health and addiction in LGBTQIA+, please give us a call at (800) 426-1818 today. We are always happy to answer your question or get you on your way to the road to recovery. The post Disparities in Mental Health and Addiction in LGBTQIA+ Individuals appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/disparities-in-mental-health-and-addiction-in-lgbtqia-individuals/ |
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