Category Archives: Aftercare For Drug Addiction In Alberta

Replacement Therapy For Opiate Detox :: Drug Interventions In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Replacement therapy for opiate detox – Drug Opiate interventionists in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Opiate Detox In BC and Alberta

Opiate Detox Replacement Therapy

While medical staff at drug rehabilitation centers may administer many different types of medication to ease drug or alcohol withdrawal symptoms in those suffering from addiction, some detox facilities make use of a process termed ‘replacement therapy’. Replacement therapy makes use of a less addictive opiate to interact with opiate receptors in the brain eliminating the dopamine ‘rush’ that causes addictive euphoria. This type of medication is always given under strict supervision and carefully monitored and controlled by qualified medical staff.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Fort McMurray, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

The 2 most common medications used in Replacement Therapy are methadone and suboxone.

Methadone In BC and Alberta

Even though methadone is as addictive as any other opiate, it has a longer half-life of up to 72 hours. Methadone is typically administered in small doses to opiate addicts because of its long action on the brain. The treatment helps to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. During the detox process, the addict is slowly weaned off the medication until the body is completely clear of all opiates.

Suboxone In BC and Alberta

Suboxone has a 72-hour length of action and in the treatment of opiate addiction, it has been proven to be highly effective. It contains the opiate antagonist ‘naltrexone’ and works on 2 levels:

1. The opioid characteristics of suboxone bind to the opiate receptors of the brain which helps to prevent severe withdrawal symptoms;

2. The naltrexone antagonist in suboxone blocks the ability of the opiate from producing euphoric effects in the user by creating a ceiling effect.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Red Deer, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

Similar to treatment with methadone, the use of suboxone is slowly tapered off until all opiates have been cleared from the body. Depending on the needs and personal preferences of the addict, the use of replacement opiates during detox therapy can be highly effective. Because the process involves a slow tapering off process, treatment can take up to 21 days.

Traditional Opiate Detox Therapy

With traditional opiate detox methods, drug withdrawal is allowed to take place naturally without the use of any additional opiates. However, this is not purely a “cold-turkey” method as medications such as sedatives and blood pressure medicine can be administered to help manage severe symptoms associated with withdrawal such as insomnia and anxiety.
Traditional opiate detox can take anything from 5 to 14 days depending on the severity of the case. The ultimate goal of any detox program is to remove all traces of drugs from the body which incorporates the use of additional medications to reduce anxiety and facilitate sleep in severe cases.

Rapid Opiate Detox

This type of opiate detox involves a medical process that places the addict under general anesthesia in order to administer an opiate antagonist that results in immediate withdrawal. Anesthesia is necessary because there is no gradual progression of withdrawal in this process and it can be quite jarring for an individual to experience sudden and full opiate withdrawal while conscious. Rapid opiate detox is always administered in a hospital setting where constant monitoring and supervision ensures the safety of the patient and medical complications can be avoided. The treatment, under constant supervision, is usually completed within 48 hours.

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 and Continuing Care 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.

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

Learn About OxyContin Detox :: Oxycontin Prescription Drug Heroin Interventions In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Learning about OxyContin Detox – Oxycontin opiate and prescription drug intervention in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating oxycontin, drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Oxycontin Detox & Intervention In Alberta And BC

About OxyContin Detox

OxyContin was first publicly released back in 1996. This powerful painkiller was created to give patients a helping hand in the management of otherwise overwhelming chronic pain. OxyContin is actually a timed-release variant of oxycodone, and it did help many subdue their pain, but it also activated a number of pleasure receptors in people’s brains using medical-grade opiates. As an unfortunate consequence, OxyContin wound up becoming just as abusable and even addictive as other drugs, like heroin and morphine. Detox from OxyContin is never fun, but anyone feeling like they might be addicted to this particular medication need to get medical attention as quickly as they can.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Fort McMurray, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

The Impact OxyContin Has On The Human Body

When it’s used properly, OxyContin is one of the few painkillers that actually help anyone who has chronic pain and overwhelming discomfort. Doctors frequently prescribe it to patients who are suffering substantial medical issues, like neurological degeneration and the later stages of cancer. It’s recommended that patients only use this particular medication for limited stretches of time given what powerful impact it can have on the human physique. Within just a few weeks of use, many patients start developing tolerance to this drug; they feel like they need more of it in order to get the same effects as before. The combination of that the tolerance that can get built up, as well as many feelings of euphoria that happen, make OxyContin very addictive. Current estimates indicate that 10 percent or more of both Americans and Canadians are going to use prescription opiates for reasons that aren’t medical at some point in their lives. A number of these addictions have roots in actual prescriptions for these medications, but others transition from illegal opiates like heroin and start using OxyContin since it’s easier to get.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Red Deer, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

OxyContin Withdrawal And Detox

Another reason making OxyContin very dangerous is how severe the symptoms of withdrawal are. Any time a person winds up forming a tolerance to a foreign substance but keeps using them a lot, then they’re more than likely going to experience the symptoms of withdrawal when they aren’t exposed to that substance anymore. This is particularly true for opiates, since the body can actually ‘forget’ just how to produce specific hormones and chemicals unless OxyContin or another drug is in the system at the time. When a person stops using OxyContin, it can actually put their body into a state of actual shock.

If a period of withdrawal is carried out properly with the intention of breaking an addiction, it’s known as detox, and it’s something that only a medical professional should oversee. What actually happens during a detox will be determined by how healthy the individual is and how severe the addiction is. Going ‘cold turkey’ is really hard, and without proper supervision, it can even be risky and dangerous. Initial symptoms typically make themselves apparent in just a few hours of not using any longer. A detox from OxyContin varies, but typically ranges from as short as 4 days up to 12 days in length. Common side effects include irritability, vomiting, nausea, and insomnia. Many would describe it as having a bad flu or really terrible cold, coupled with psychological and emotional issues.

Opiate Addiction Getting Help

The odds of breaking an opiate addiction on your own are not good. Rather than just getting rid of your drugs and just hoping things work out, addicts need to have a proper support system in place in order to manifest long-term results. Detox is something that a medical professional should always oversee. However, addicts might also want to think about using an inpatient center once the physical effects of their detox start wearing off. Inpatient treatment programs can run from one to three months and address a number of causes behind the underlying addiction rather than only treating just the side effects.

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 and Continuing Care 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.

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

Preventing an Opiate Relapse: Drug Rehab Intervention in Alberta and BC | Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Preventing an opiate relapse – Addiction recovery and a drug opiate rehab intervention in British Columbia and Alberta — Drug Rehabs in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer and other parts of Alberta by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating heroin, fentanyl, opioid, drug addiction and recovery.

Alberta Rehab and Drug Interventions

Opiate Relapse Prevention

Staying sober and preventing a relapse is one of the most common concerns faced after opiate detoxification. There are several reasons, some often lingering under the surface while others are more visible, why a huge number of individuals struggling with opiate addiction relapse after the detoxification process is complete.

On Its Own, Detoxification Is Barely Enough

To be hooked on opiates to the point where an individual needs to undergo detoxification, their use must be so regular that it becomes part of their lives on a day to day basis. Addicts need to rediscover how they can live their lives on an hourly or daily basis without using these drugs to have a chance at staying sober after completing the detoxification process.

Intervention, Opiates, Heroin addiction and Fentanyl abuse and addiction in Calgary, Alberta

Relapse triggers such as people, routines, places and habits must all change to achieve this. It is virtually impossible, in many cases, on one’s own to make all these changes without guidance and some level of therapy. Not knowing how to stay sober, and not the person’s desire to remain sober, tends to be the main challenge.

Trained treatment experts know how to communicate the knowledge which is essential for continued sobriety of the person recovering from an addiction to opiates.

Preventing Opiate Relapse at an emotional Level

One of the hidden reasons behind the destructive and addiction habits seen in most addicts is some form of internal pain or trauma. The risk of relapse increases exponentially and is always one stressful day away as long as these issues are not addressed and remain hidden. Low self esteem, abuse, broken or contentious relationships, serious surgery or injury, neglect, unresolved guilt, severe grief from a loss, mental health disorders that are co-occurring (such as addiction and mental health disorders resulting in a dual diagnosis) and PTSD are some of the commonly identified causes of an addict’s internal affliction.

People Living with Opiate Fentanyl and Heroin addiction in Calgary, Alberta

Behind every turn you will find reminders of various traumatic experiences and triggers, making addressing any hidden problems internally, before going back to a domestic environment very important. The next step, once these personal issues are addressed, is developing coping skills and learning how to manage the emotions linked with these problems. To successfully manage victory, loss, guilt, trauma and stress, every individual must have coping skills. It is important, especially for addicts on the path to recovery, to understand their emotions and manage and express them in a positive way to ensure that they do not resort to numbing their pain using opiates once again.

Options Okanagan Drug 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.

Opiate Rehab & Interventions - Individuals Living with Heroin Addiction in Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta

Our unique and distinctive drug 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.

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

Know About the Triggers for an Opiate Relapse : Drug Opiate Rehab in Alberta and BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Know about the triggers for an opiate relapse and recovering addicts in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Opiate Rehab In Alberta And BC

As each addict begins the recovery process, they’ll have their own set of triggers that could lead to a relapse. A trigger, in short, is a person, place, or specific thing that reminds the addict of their addiction. A few examples are:

a) Individuals that the addict used drugs with.
b) Homes, street corners, or medical offices where they used to obtain opiates.
c) Daily routines that used to involve opiate use.
d) Routes to and from their house that also pass by places that the addict frequented while addicted.
e) Pieces of clothing or furniture that remind them of their drug use.

This type of trigger can be almost anything that reminds the addict of their time using drugs, keeping that thought lingering at the top of their mind and putting them in danger of a relapse. Many addiction recovery professionals insist that an addict in recovery needs to be away from all of the places, people, and things that they have tied to their addiction.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Red Deer, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

Ways to Help Avoid a Relapse

No matter the length of time an addict has been sober, there will always be setbacks in life, and it’s essential that the addict learn the resources that they can put to use to help prevent a relapse. Many of the techniques addicts put into effect to fight addiction can actually save their life, and they shouldn’t be taken for granted, no matter how small they are.

1. Individuals and groups that are supportive of one’s recovery are incredibly important when times are tough. It’s important for everyone to have someone that they can relate with, and for addicts there’s a large amount of relief in learning that they’re not alone and having someone to help them as they struggle.

2. Hobbies and other healthy activities that are helpful to recovery can be a wonderful distraction and help prevent a relapse. This type of activity can help an addict stay distracted while also preventing boredom, which is one of the most common reasons that addicts relapse.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Fort McMurray, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

3. One of the most overlooked resources a recovering addict has available to them is taking the time to ask for help maintaining their sobriety. Sometimes the difference between returning to their addiction and staying sober can be as simple as reaching out and asking for help.

4. Use the surviving and coping skills that are learned in addiction treatment. This treatment is designed to teach the information and tools that addicts will need to prevent relapse, and to show them how to demonstrate the same devotion to these techniques that they’ve show to their addictive habits.

5. Individual therapy is essential, no matter what has been accomplished in addiction treatment. Therapy provides an essential emotional outlet, as well as a safe place for the addict to talk about their feelings and receive help, without being overwhelmed and risking a relapse.

Opiate Addiction Recovery

Every day that an addicted individual doesn’t get the help that they need, their addiction grows worse and has a greater potential to be deadly. This disease takes thousands of lives each year, but it doesn’t have to affect you or your loved ones or turn them into a statistic. Opiate addiction is treatable, and it is possible to recover.

Drug Opiate Rehab in Alberta and BC

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 and Continuing Care 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.

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

The Reality Behind Addiction And Homelessness In Alberta and BC | Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

The reality behind addiction and homelessness in Alberta and British Columbia – Drug Rehabs in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer and other parts of Alberta by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating heroin, fentanyl, opiate, drug addiction and recovery.

Opioid Rehab in BC and Alberta

A link exists between addiction and homelessness according to recent research findings. Without dwelling too much on the topic, the average person is in fact likely to associate the abuse of substances with homelessness.

Many homeless individuals are struggling with addiction, in fact. However, blindly assuming that all homeless individuals use drugs would be wrong. Most homeless people are not addicts, as hard as that might be to believe, while most drug users are also not homeless as supported by statistics.

A Complicated Problem With No Simple Solution

A huge increase in homelessness has been seen in western countries over the recent past. This increase has nothing to do with addiction according to experts. There are many reasons why people end up without a home.

The issue of homelessness is quite complicated, and there no simple solution to it. It’s unfortunate but to cope with the new and unwelcome situation of homelessness, many individuals face the risk of developing an addiction.

Intervention, Opiates, Heroin addiction and Fentanyl abuse and addiction in Calgary, Alberta

Locking homeless individuals in jail or beating them up was common practice in the distant past. As it stands however, the treatment of such people has improved. Sadly however, homelessness is still frowned upon by a large proportion of society, with the homeless being viewed as if they don’t belong.

About 1% of the population in the US and Canada, is estimated to be living without a home, this equates to 4.1 million individuals. Alcohol and drug abuse are only two of the many potential causes of homelessness.

Delving Deeper Into Substance Abuse And Homelessness

Around 39 percent of all homeless individuals are struggling with alcohol abuse, while 28% are struggling with the abuse of substances other than alcohol; keep in mind that gathering accurate statistics on the homeless is quite a challenge.

In comparison with the general population, addiction is a bigger problem among the homeless population. A large percentage of the general population assumes that substance abuse is the reason behind homelessness simply because many homeless people use alcohol and drugs.

People Living with Opiate Fentanyl and Heroin addiction in Calgary, Alberta

While some homeless individuals use addiction as a means of coping with their stress they are under, others suffer from mental illness. However, drug addiction follows a downward trajectory in all situations.

Any attempts made by a homeless person towards improving their life can be destroyed utterly and swiftly by an addiction.

Addiction And Homelessness Leaves Individuals Exposed

Homeless people who are struggling with an addiction tend to be more vulnerable. Such individuals are left to weather the elements because many homeless shelters do not, in fact, open their doors to homeless individuals who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Taking advantage of social services offered to the homeless tends to be quite a challenge for those who also suffer an addiction. Homelessness can be caused by a variety of issues; it is however agreeable that this is a complicated problem.

Only temporary support is offered by most of the available solutions. Rather than becoming homeless as a result of substance abuse, many individuals turn to it as a way to cope with living without a home, even though substance abuse can actually cause homelessness.

Seek Assistance From Options Okanagan For Substance Abuse

For those who need it, we can assist by offering addiction treatment at an affordable rate, even though the complexities of substance abuse and addiction are not going to be solved in the near future. As such, we can get people back to making a positive contribution to society by getting them off the street.

Reach out to Options Okanagan today, and kick start the process of saving another life, if you have a loved one or friend who needs assistance for substance abuse.

Professional Drug Rehab and Interventions In Alberta and BC

Options Okanagan Drug 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.

Interventions and Individuals Living with Opiate Addiction Rehab in Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta

Our unique and distinctive drug 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.

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

Drug Interventions, Treatment Options And Individuals Struggling With Drug Addiction In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Drug opiate interventions, treatment options and individuals who are struggling with drug addiction in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Opiate Rehab & Interventions In Alberta And BC

Do Interventions Really Work For Drug Addiction?

When the word Intervention is brought up it can summon up the impression of a confrontational meeting where a suffering person gets called out by their friends and family. That type of intervention might not work in real life as well as it does on television. However, an intervention full of understanding and love can be effective.

It is very important to carefully plan an intervention. Everybody who participates needs to be educated about the specific situation and be prepared to stand very firm in believing the suffering people needs assistance. There should definitely be consequences if they do refuse treatment, like no more financial support, for example.

Addiction intervention professionals are specialists who organize interventions and prepare family members and friends to act in an appropriate manner. That includes anticipating the objections that a person might be given who struggles with addiction, like I can stop taking drugs any time or it’s not a big deal.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Fort McMurray, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

What Not To Do When Somebody Is Struggling With Drug Addiction

When talking to somebody about their drug addiction there are things that need to be avoided. Enabling them, making excuses for the person, preaching, lecturing all are destructive habits that in the long run will not help. Anything that encourages emotional distance or substance abuse can potentially be damaging.

It may be very hard to hold back from lashing out from anger when somebody you love through their addictive behaviors is causing pain. If might be challenging to financially cut them off if necessary. When you are having to deal with addiction, tough love is often critical. At times the kinder option is not giving in to whatever the other individual wants, but stand up for what the really need instead.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Red Deer, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

Explore Drug Addiction Treatment Options

The individual in your life who is currently struggling with drug addiction may be waiting for somebody who is courageous enough to reach out and assist them. Before having that conversation, it is very useful to collection information on various treatment options.

Individualized treatment programs are created by reputable drug rehab centers that guide individuals through their recovery process. Those programs include family support through education and therapy on how to properly care for a loved while they are overcoming their addiction. An aftercare program might work with members of the family to create a home environment that is safe and that promotes substance-free living.

If you want to learn more about the various treatment options that are available to assist your loved one with their addiction, specialists at Options Okanagan are always available to assist you.

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 and Continuing Care 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.

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

Do’s And Don’ts Of Helping Individuals Fighting An Addiction To Drugs | Opiate Interventions In Alberta And BC | Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Do’s and Don’ts of helping individuals who are fighting an addiction to drugs – PART 02 – Drug opiate intervention in Alberta and British Columbia, Canada – Drug Rehabs in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer and other parts of Alberta by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating heroin, fentanyl, opiate, drug addiction and recovery.

Opiate Addiction Rehab in BC and Alberta

Fighting An Addiction To Drugs: The Do’s And Don’ts : Part 02

In North America, more than 25 million individuals struggle with drug addiction in one way of the other. In some quarters, this is believed to be one of the most pertinent issues the region faces. Furthermore, over 64% of the region’s population has encountered addiction through a close relation, according to research findings. When your close relation agrees to get help, it can be a welcome relief, if you are part of the group that has had to witness a loved one struggling with addiction. However, this is not the end.

For both you and the person struggling against addiction, there’s still a lot to be done even after the process of recovery commences. Recognizing that your role goes over and beyond offering your loved one support is important. To best support the recovering individual, it’s essential that you find out what you should be doing and avoiding, when it comes to helping them through the process.

Drug Rehab & Intervention, Opiates, Heroin addiction and Fentanyl abuse and addiction in Calgary, Alberta

What To Avoid When Helping Individuals Fighting Drug Addiction

In an attempt to protect and cover for a loved one battling addiction to drugs, it’s easy for you to fall into some habits. To give him/her the best opportunity to get past the recovery process independently, it is best that you steer clear of these habits.

1. Enabling Improper Conduct

Taking the blame for arguments and disagreements with the addict, or calling their office/workplace to cover for absenteeism, while they are under the influence of the drug they are trying to shake in the first place, are some of the temptations that you should steer clear of during the recovery process. These actions only encourage your loved one’s behavior. You should instead recall that to fully recover from the addiction, they need to should the consequences of their actions.

People Living with Opiate Fentanyl and Heroin addiction in Calgary, Alberta

2. Setting Unrealistic Expectations

Hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst is the best approach to use when it comes to your expectations about a recovering loved one. Avoid expecting your loved one to change overnight, instead give them the space they need to get through the process. Similarly, support the recovering addict in any way you can, including limiting their access to funds in the household.

3. Find A Way To Deal With Your Personal Concerns Healthily

Letting your close relation know that you care about them is essential. However, you sharing your thoughts on whether the activities they engage in or the friends they keep will lead them into a relapse will do nothing to help them through the process. Similarly, this is also not the time to talk about the decisions the recovering individual made in the past. Find a safe way or person to help you work out your concerns instead of projecting them onto your recovering loved one.

4. Avoid Feeling Stuck

Even when the situation is not working, many close relations think that it is up to them to see their loved one through the process. You should not feel stuck, in case either of you feels like they are unhappy, or won’t be able to get the relationship back on track even if the recovering addict successfully gets through the process. To encourage healing on both sides, it is recommended that you, as a sensible individual, free yourself and your loved one from the relationship’s expectations.

Although possible, recovery is not easy. For a basic guide to the do’s and don’ts when it comes to helping an individual fighting drug addiction, use the above suggestions.

Options Okanagan Drug 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.

Rehab & Interventions and Individuals Living with Drug Addiction in Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta

Our unique and distinctive drug 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.

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

What To Expect At Substance Abuse Evaluations :: Alcohol Or Drug Rehab In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

What to expect at drug and alcohol abuse evaluations – Alcohol or Drug Rehab and Interventions in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Drug and Opioid Rehab In Alberta And BC

Addiction Rehab – Substance Abuse Evaluations

There have been a lot of innovations in the world of substance addiction treatment recently which focus on customized care, and treat patients as individuals, rather than simply treating them as ‘someone who has a set of specific symptoms’. One of the key components of these treatments is to try to engage with patients through regular evaluations. These assessments are usually done before a person enters into a treatment program, whether they enter voluntarily or through a court-ordered process. The assessments are key to helping ensure that people get an accurate idea of the patient’s use and history, and to highlight other issues, including medical conditions and mental health struggles which may alter how the person is best cared for.

The substance abuse and mental health service reports that there are almost nine million North Americans who are struggling with disorders, including dual-diagnosis disorder, as well as sleep disorders, heart disease, hypertension or chronic pain. Identifying what may be driving an addiction can help to keep the patient safe and help them get the best possible treatment. Each addiction case is unique, and it is important that the patients have an accurate understanding of their care needs so they can be properly treated.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Fort McMurray, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

How Evaluations Work

The purpose of an evaluation is to determine if the person does indeed have a substance problem requiring treatment, and also to determine the best treatment protocol for that person. Substance abuse and mental health service agencies define these processes as two separate parts – screening and assessment.

Substance abuse screening will determine whether there is a problem, and how severe it is as well as the scope. Social workers, psychiatrists and counselors, as well as other health professionals, can all help with screenings. Sometimes the process begins with a questionnaire that the patient can fill out themselves online.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Red Deer, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

The process will show:

a) The presence of a substance use disorder, or the threat of one developing
b) Preliminary interventions that could help to prevent the onset of an addiction
c) What type of substance abuse is happening
d) How long the patient has been abusing the substance(s)

Assessment is the next step, and how this works will depend on the screening results. Patients will be asked more questions, and the questions will be more in depth, considering the nature of their abuse, and what factors could be driving it. Once a disorder has been identified, there is the option to work with the patient to help with their other health conditions and to help them manage mental health or lifestyle factors that could otherwise be contributing to their drug addiction. These in-depth assessments are done by experienced health professionals because they inform treatment to a greater degree. The diagnostic criteria can involve the Addiction Severity Index and the Diagnostic Interview Schedule-IV. There may be input required from family or loved ones if at all possible, to help provide the clearest possible understanding of what the patient is going through.

After Substance Abuse Assessment and Evaluation Plan

Once they have completed their evaluation, the patient will be given a custom care plan that covers their specific needs. Some people may need inpatient care, others will be able to tackle their addiction with outpatient care. They may be eligible for a form of medication-assisted treatment. Every care plan is different and some people may need ongoing support. The evaluation is just the beginning, and regular check-ins can be a huge help in terms of allowing the patient to stay on track and to get more support when needed.

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 and Continuing Care 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.

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

Do’s And Don’ts Of Helping Someone Who Is Battling Addiction | Drug Interventions In Alberta And BC Canada | Options Okanagan Interventions

Do’s and Don’ts of helping someone who is battling drug addiction – Drug interventions in Alberta and British Columbia Canada – Drug Rehabs in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer and other parts of Alberta by Options Okanagan Treatment Center in Kelowna, British Columbia treating heroin, fentanyl, opiate, drug addiction and recovery.

Drug Addiction Rehab in BC and Alberta

At this moment, there are well over 25 million persons in the United States and Canada that are struggling with addiction in one form or another. Many believe that this is perhaps, the most serious issue in all of the world. In addition, according to research, over 64 percent of the general population has dealt with someone who is close to them who struggles with an addiction. These people are parents, children, relatives, and friends. Here are some important tips to aiding someone who is battling an addiction.

If you’re one of the many who has watched a friend or loved one struggle with addiction, it may be a huge relief when they finally agree to seek help for their condition. However, it doesn’t end there. In fact, that’s only the beginning of a long arduous journey ahead called the recovery process.

Drug Rehab & Intervention, Opiates, Heroin addiction and Fentanyl abuse and addiction in Calgary, Alberta

It’s also vital to recognize that the responsibility is far more than simply supporting the person during their recovery. In fact, it’s vital that you understand what you should and shouldn’t do to help them in their recovery.

To aid in this revelation, we have compiled this list of dos and don’ts to aid you in setting firm boundaries and offering support to them during their treatment and beyond.

There are many ways that you can positively support a loved one during their treatment for drug addiction. Of course, the first thing that you must understand is that this is their recovery, not yours. You must let them walk through this on their own. Here are some suggestions that can help you in aiding their recovery.

1. Attend Meetings

In order to help them in their recovery, they’ll likely need to attend meetings. These meetings are 12-step programs, therapy, meetings that give them support and more. If you’re asked to go with them, be sure that you go. Not only will this lend your friend or loved one support, but it will also help you to understand things from their perspective a bit more.

People Living with Opiate Fentanyl and Heroin addiction in Calgary, Alberta

2. Seek Support

In addition to being supportive of your friend or loved one, you should also seek support for yourself. You also need care. Follow up on your own support by joining a meeting for those who are supporting friends or loved ones in addiction. You’ll develop a network of people who are also undergoing this and can understand where you’re at.

3. Invest In Self-Care

There are many ups and downs along the road to recovery. You’re loved one isn’t going to have a smooth ride and you’ll have to take the time to deal with your own heal and concerns and yet be supportive of theirs. Make it a priority on your list to take care of you during this difficult time. Be sure to see your doctor for your regular check-ups, talk to your doctor about your concerns and make sure that you’re exercising and eating right as well as getting plenty of rest.

4. Create Some Space To Heal

Naturally, you want to be supportive, however, you’re going to have to heal from any emotional or physical damage that happened to you during their addiction>. You too need the space to heal. Regardless of how hard you try, you can’t make your loved one remain clean and sober, only they can do that. Set up some boundaries, protect yourself and allow yourself some time to heal. Give your loved one time to make the right choices and to make them all on their own.

Part 02 – The Do’s And Don’ts On Drug Addiction ‘Next Post’

Options Okanagan Drug 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.

Rehab & Interventions and Individuals Living with Drug Addiction in Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta

Our unique and distinctive drug 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.

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

Physiological Effects Of Using Meth :: Professional Interventions In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Physiological effects of using meth – Drug Opiate interventionists in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine addiction and recovery.

Meth Rehab In BC and Alberta

It is important to have a clear understanding of how the use of methamphetamine might affect your brain and body, especially considering the fact that it is one of the most addictive and dangerous illegal substances currently on the scene. Over the recent past, meth use has been on a sharp increase, with 1.4 million people confessing to have used some form of methamphetamine over the last year, according to figures published by the National Survey of drug Use and Health. It is now essential to learn the usually permanent and dreadful effects of meth on the body, with the increasing number of users.

Short-Term Physiological Effects

The stimulation of the CNS (Central Nervous System) mainly by the dopamine reward system, results in an initial experience of ecstasy and excitement right after the administration, through smoking or injection, of the methamphetamine in question. Users experience a feeling of bliss comparable to nirvana as dopamine, a neurotransmitter, floods the reward system.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Fort McMurray, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

An essential part of neurological behavior and health, dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of pleasure and drive. Withdrawal into oneself, heightened confidence and aggression, all resulting from the dopamine reward system imbalance caused by the drug, are considered to the most common symptoms of use.

The drastic neurochemistry changes in users result in symptoms of schizophrenia and paranoia during the “tweaking” phase, which usually comes after the initial high. Furthermore, tweakers may show signs of withdrawal from reality or psychosis in addition to experiencing nightmares and hallucinations.

A reducing level of dopamine passes through to the brain’s reward system due to the formation of blockages even with a higher subsequent consumption of meth, this means that as the dopamine reward system craves the initial high with these restrictions an addiction to the substance develops quite swiftly. This can ultimately lead to serious cases of depression and even suicide as users lose all their emotions and drive in life.

People Living with Drug addiction and Addiction Aftercare and Continuing Care in Red Deer, Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta

Long Term Physiological Effects

Considered to irreversible, the long term physiological effects of meth use are more dreadful than the above described initial effects. Long term methamphetamine users experience everything from severe neurological damage, widespread organ failure and serious physiological damage. Here’s a list of other common side effects.

a. Users suffer large scale organ failure, everything from congestive heart to kidney failure.

b. Seizures and strokes brought on by a combination of increased heat rate and other factors that result in serious damage to blood vessels.

c. Withdrawal from reality, schizophrenia and irreversible cases of psychosis

d. Accelerated tooth decay sets in

e. Uncontrollable emotional urges and the deterioration of motor skills brought on by brain decay

f. A non-functional dopamine reward system that results in the complete loss of drive and the onset of depression

g. Contracting infectious diseases, like STIs, and/or permanent damage to the lungs caused by the method of administering the substance, whether injection or smoking.

Today, methamphetamine is considered to be among the most addictive and dreadful drugs overall. Its physiological effects, which occur almost immediately after use, are compounded with the passage of time. The fact that its hold on the body’s reward system is immediate means that it’s also one of the most addictive illegal substances.

Methamphetamine affects and tears apart the body in all the ways you can think of; from the swift decay of the major organs of the body, and serious neurological disorders and irreversible damage, to the brain to increased and reckless risk taking. To ensure that you steer clear of this drug, and any pitfalls attributed to ignorance, it’s important to arm yourself with the right information, especially considering the growing rate of use.

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 and Continuing Care 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.

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