Category Archives: Drug Intervention Alberta

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

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

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

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

Benzos And Senior Citizens At Risk Of Becoming Addicted :: Drug Addiction In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Benzos And Senior Citizens: Are They At Risk For Becoming Addicted? Drug opiate addiction treatment in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Drug Rehab In Alberta And BC

Benzos And Senior Citizens At Risk Of Becoming Addicted

Numerous senior citizens these days are taking cocktails of dangerous and potent drugs on a daily basis. Some of those drugs, are of course necessary for certain conditions like heart problems, arthritis, high blood pressure, and much more. However, the elderly are also taking various pills for depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. Benzodiazepines like Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, and Xanax are being prescribed at a very alarming rate to senior citizens.

Problems arise whenever the individual has memory problems and cannot properly follow dosing directions. Or, the drugs they take might have adverse interactions. A lot of these people have increased risk for car accidents, broken bones, falls, and other types of dangers.

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

Elderly individuals don’t always discuss with their doctors what the side effect are of taking multiple prescriptions at the same time. Often they assume that many of the symptoms that they are experiencing are due to old age. Therefore, the problems that arise with benzos and senior citizens frequently get overlooked or are misdiagnosed. Quite often, they are given a different medication in order to counteract their symptoms, but their problem continues to get worse.

The Dangers Of Seniors Using Benzo Over The Long Term

Some experts think that many dementia signs frequently result from the side effects caused by the combination of different prescription drugs that an individual is taking. Anxiety, sleep disturbances, appetite problems, kidney and bladder problems, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, memory loss, and more are frequently attributed to old age. However, it is important to look closely at what else may be occurring with these people.

As we grow older, our bodily functions significantly slow down. In the senior years, we discover it takes us longer to overcome illnesses and recover from colds. Also, our bodies have a more difficult time processing the chemicals that we may have consumed from medications or food. With all of that mind, we need to wonder how an elderly individual’s body is going to react to the hundreds of different chemicals that are contained in their prescription medications. That might means senior citizens need to be prescribed smaller benzos doses due to having slower metabolism.

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

How The Issue Of Benzos and Senior Citizens Should Be Addressed

Health studies that have been conducted report that over 13% of senior women and 10% of senior men use benzodiazepines on a regular basis. The dangers and side effects of benzos are why these drugs appear on the mental health lists as being potentially inappropriate for the elderly to use. In general, benzos are intended to be used over the short term of around four months or shorter. Unfortunately, there are many seniors who continue to be prescribed and take this drug for years.

Given that benzodiazepines pose a serious threat for addiction and dependency, physicians should talk about alternative treatment methods that are available for problems like depression, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. Particularly for those people who are taking several prescription pills on a daily basis already.

Options Okanagan Offers Assistance With Benzos Addiction

If you are worried about an elderly family member who has a benzodiazepine addiction or abuse problem, there is help that is available. Professional treatment might be required like an inpatient drug rehabilitation program to assist your loved one with overcoming their addiction. Effective treatment facilities are fully equipped and have the expertise to help an individual safely overcome their withdrawal symptoms during the detox process. Then the program provides the person with a curriculum of skills training and behavioral modification therapies to help the individual to avoid going back to their old habits.

Contact Options Okanagan today for more information on benzos and senior citizens. We will be very happy to help you with whatever we can and assist you with selecting the right treatment program for your loved one.

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

The Most Addictive Drug Globally :: Heroin Intervention & Rehab In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

What is the most addictive drug globally at present? Heroin intervention and rehab in British Columbia and Alberta – Options Okanagan Treatment Centers in Kelowna, British Columbia treating drug, opiate, fentanyl, heroin and alcohol addiction and recovery.

Heroin Rehab & Interventions In Alberta And BC

What Is Considered To Be The Most Addictive Drug Globally At Present?

If your answer is heroin, then you are correct. Currently, across the world, heroin is considered to be among the most addictive substances>. The practice of dealers lacing heroin with fentanyl, in recent times, has led to the exponential increase of the dangers associated with its use. The fact that heroine use has doubled in the US and Canada over the last 5 years has further aggravated the situation. Add to that the fact that on an annual basis, more than 500,000 heroin users are treated for overdoses. Lastly, heroin is also considered to be one of the most addictive drugs on earth due to its low cost.

The relatively high cost of prescription medication is also said to contribute to the high rate of abuse of heroin. The high cost of opioid based painkillers shut out a huge number of people who are addicted to prescription drugs. The low cost of heroin is attractive to such individuals. White middle aged adults account for the largest proportion of this increase in heroin users, surprisingly. Unfortunately, most of these new users quickly develop a dependence on heroin, with a large number of them dying from overdoses.

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

Additional Addictive Substances To Be Concerned About

There are other highly addictive substances available at present, even though heroin is considered to top the list. You might have heard about these drugs on the news, and are therefore familiar with most of them. However, it’s only right that we include them here in a bid to shed more light on the severity of the drug issues we face at this day and age.

2. Cocaine

Known to cause extreme alertness, increased energy levels and temporary feelings of euphoria with use, cocaine is a stimulant. The drug causes dangerous heart rate levels and increased blood pressure, all the while making the user more talkative. The drug, when used as a pain killer, keeps the user hooked by creating intense feelings of pleasure. The drug usually comes in a variety of forms including crystals, liquid and powder. Currently, more than 2.4 million people use cocaine according to health organizations.

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

3. Opioid Drugs

Hydrocodone, oxycodone, fentanyl and codeine are dome of the commonly abused opioids. In the US and Canada, dependence on opioids has now reached epidemic levels. Doctors are now being advised to reduce the amount of prescriptions they issue for these addictive substances by health organizations. At present, it is estimated that 7.6 million individuals in North America abuse prescription pain medication.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol use depresses the central nervous system. Different forms of alcohol include hard liquor, wine and beer. The effects of alcohol use including feelings of euphoria, calming effect and lowered inhibitions attract many individuals. Among college and high school students, binge drinking has become a major issue today. The practice involves drinking in a short period, a couple of hours, more than 5 servings of the drug. In most cases, regular users feel that they need to use the drug to have fun; while alcoholics on the other hand feel like drinking is their only path to feeling normal. 7.5% of people who are 18 and above suffer from alcohol use disorder, as per estimates put forward by health organizations.

5. Benzodiazepine Drugs

These drugs are usually used to control seizures and treat anxiety. Benzodiazepine use creates a relaxing and satisfying feeling in the user. To enhance the effects of the drugs, considered to be among the most commonly abused in the US and Canada, they are used with pain medication or alcohol. Valium, Xanax, Klonopin and Activan are some of the commonly prescribed benzodiazepines.

A standard of measurement for addictive substances has been created by professionals working at health organizations. To do this they carried out research studies to collect data on the addictive potential of specific substances and the resulting effects.

Overcoming Your Dependence On The World’s Most Addictive Drug

One of the most challenging addictions to overcome is an addiction to heroin. However, many previous addicts have been able to successfully free themselves from their dependence. Reach out to us today, at Options Okanagan, if you are struggling with heroin addiction. Over the years we have helped many individuals overcome their dependence on the world’s most addictive drug, allow us to help you. Call us today, and get your path to recovery started by speaking with one of our professional treatment advisors.

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

Why Do Some Individuals Become Addicted To Drugs :: Struggling Addicts In BC And Alberta | Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Why do some individuals become addicted to drugs – Struggling addicts 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, opiate, drug addiction and recovery.

Drug Rehab & Intervention in Alberta and BC

Drug Addiction – Important Things To Remember

Drug addiction is a type of chronic disease that is characterized by drug use and seeking that is hard to control, compulsive, and occurs despite the harmful consequences. As drugs are used over time, there are brain changes that take place that challenge the self-control of an addicted person and interfere with their abilities to resist the intense desire to take drugs. That is why drug addiction is a relapsing disease as well. Relapse refers to returning to drug use following an attempt to quite. Relapse is an indication that different or more treatment is needed.

The reward circuit of the brain is affected by most drugs by flooding it with high amounts of chemical messenger dopamine. Dopamine surges into the reward circuits results in pleasurable yet unhealthy activities being reinforced, causing individuals to repeat their behavior over and over again. The brain over time adjusts to the excessive amounts of dopamine, and that reduces the high that an individuals feels when compared to the high felt when the drug is first taken – this effect is called tolerance. They may take higher amounts of the drug, attempting to achieve the same level of dopamine high.

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

There is no one factor that will predict whether an individual will end up becoming addicted to drugs. The combination of developmental, environmental, and genetic factors influence risk for becoming addicted. The more risk factors that an individuals has, the higher the chances are that taking drugs will lead to the person becoming addicted. Drug addiction can be treated and managed successfully. Addiction and drug use are also preventable. Health care providers, parents, and teachers play critical roles in educating youth and preventing addiction and drug use.

Seeking Treatment For Addiction To Drugs

Both currently and in the past, addiction has continued to be an increasingly serious problem across North America. Measures of awareness have started to make an impact, although there are still millions of individuals who are affected currently. Suffering continues as there is a low rate of individuals in those numbers who seek treatment. With the appropriate guided treatment programs, sobriety is achievable. When addiction is explained to a non-addict, individuals don’t always like admitting their problems. When addiction can be addressed as soon as possible, it can greatly benefit when earlier treatment is received and quicker sobriety as well.

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

That help that you need is right around the corner through the best-fit treatment program for individual and specific needs. Get in touch with Options Okanagan and talk with a professional counselor who can guide you through the recovery steps.

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

Addiction Explained To A Non-Addict – What Role Does The Environment Play? Drug Rehab In Alberta And BC :: Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

Addiction explained to a Non-Addict and what role does the environment play? – Drug Opiate 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 Opiate Rehab In BC and Alberta

What Role Does The Environment Play In Drug Opiate Addiction?

An individual’s regular environment all revolves around their economic status, lifestyle activities, family, and friends. Along with those factors, an environment may also include exposure to drugs, stress, potential abuse, and peer pressure. Whenever addiction is explained to a non-addict, the person might have a difficult time understanding what the substance abuse’s initial cause was. For each addiction, there are various factors that are involved as to why it started initially. Beyond the environment, the genetic makeup of an individual might present certain mental disorders as well. That is particularly hard to understand since unless you have been pre-diagnosed, it isn’t necessarily foreseen that the addiction will occur. Also, a person’s life has stages that affect their risk for addiction. Teenagers are in a vulnerable and danger time of their lives since using drugs may be viewed as trendy. That sounds terrible, and it actually is. The teenager’s brains is also still developing, particularly in the parts that are responsible for making decisions. That creates vulnerability since lack of self-control and judgment might result in impulsive drug use.

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

For people suffering from addiction, after their initial substance use, their power of choice comes to an end. When addiction is explained to a non-addict, it might be hard when the non-addict judges an individual based on their initial actions. Given that environmental factors play a role within all age groups, it is very common that all types of individuals are presented with the chance to try substances out. Saying no to alcohol or drugs is never easy. Alcohol and drugs affect dopamine levels. Dopamine plays a critical role in pleasure feelings, emotion, and motivation. When used over time a tolerance to the addictive substance will build up. A person will seldom think ahead and predict the way their brain and body will respond to their initial drug use. Nobody decides to become an addict, and numerous individuals are not aware of all of the risks that are associated with common prescription drugs.

The truth about addiction is the individual cannot overcome it alone. No matter how much the suffering individual want to quit, there are other related issues that make it practically impossible to do it by themselves. Other problems might include co-occurring mental health disorders and withdrawal symptoms. Mental health disorders co-exist with addiction and are prevalent. It is critical to learning to understand addicts is that addiction sufferers will have multiple issues present.

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

Psychological problem may make an individual susceptible to addiction. However, that can occur as well after the addiction has started. Severe mental illnesses may make an individual one-half times more likely to experience substance abuse. Personality disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, and mood disorders all have a great deal of susceptibility to addiction. These type of diseases include depression, schizophrenia, general anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder. People who suffer from mood disorder and anxiety are twice as likely to develop addictions. Some individuals might find it hard to learn how an addiction can be explain since they might hide information about their mental health status.

Many mental illness studies report that individuals with schizophrenia have a four time higher chance of developing an addiction problem, and those with bipolar disorders have over five times the chance. When worked in reverse, individuals who have suffered from an addiction likely will have a mental illness as well. Mental illnesses play a major role among alcoholics. PTSD and anxiety are classified as being the most commonly diagnosed illnesses for alcoholics. When mental illness and addiction are connected is is referred to as a dual diagnosis. Treatments for them frequently address the problems that are associated with both of these problem areas. When coinciding issues are treated by treatment centers, they have a tendency to achieve the best results in sobriety and life management. Addiction and mental illnesses may both be classified as diseases. Although addiction cannot be cured, it can be managed adequately when the appropriate treatment is uses. Not all mental illnesses are diseases, although in terms of coping and management, instead of curing, some do have the same criteria.

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

How to Get Non-Addicts to Better Understand What Addicted Individuals Go Through | Drug Opiate Addicts In BC And Alberta | Options Okanagan Treatment Centers

How to get Non-Addicts to better understand what addicted individuals go through – Drug opiate 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, opiate, drug addiction and recovery.

Alberta and BC Drug Rehab

How to Get Non-Addicts to Better Understand What Addicted Individuals Go Through

It is not always easy to explain what drug addiction is like to someone who has never suffer from addiction. Those without an addiction to substances often struggle to understand what an addicted individual goes through or experiences that eventually causes them to want to continue using drugs. The addict becomes dependent on the drugs he or she is taking and eventually the mind and body both start to become weaker, thus causing even more of a dependency than ever before. Some non-addicts are put off by the fact that addiction is referred to as a disease, but the truth is that it is considered a disease that takes over the mind and the human body.

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

Addiction is considered a disease for quite a few different reasons. It has a negative impact on the person who is using the drugs, but it can also have a negative impact on their loved ones who want them to get clean and want to see them return to the way that they were in the past. Those who do not struggle with addiction often find it difficult to comprehend what the addict is going through when using drugs, when working on recovery, and when attempting to stay sober after using for so long. The addicts often become frustrated because they start to feel like the people around them do not understand anything that they are feeling or experiencing.

How to Provide a Better Explanation of Addiction to Someone Who Is Not Addicted

There are different diseases that can occur where a person can get better, and then relapse at a later time, including cancer and drug addiction. While managing the disease may be possible, those management techniques do not always work. The brain changes when a person continuously uses drugs and those changes that occur can make it even harder for an addicted individual to make the right decisions and control his or her behavior like a non-addicted person would be able to. A person must have the strength to avoid the drugs, but that strength does not always last and there are times when the individual gives in, ultimately using the drugs all over again.

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

Unfortunately, many people do not understand why drug addiction is a disease and they do not realize what types of struggles addicts go through. If you have someone in your life who is currently on drugs, you may not know how to help that person or be there for them. The best way to be more understanding is to realize that people of all ages, races, genders, and sexual orientations can end up addicted to drugs. It can happen to someone you love, care about, and truly respect. Even the environment in which an individual lives can lead to drug abuse at some point, so it helps to be more understanding of the situation.

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.

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