The term opioid refers to drugs that bind to one or more of the body’s opioid receptors. Some are derived from the opium plant while others are synthetic. Most commonly, opioids are used for pain relief, but they can also be used in treatment of diarrhea, cough and other conditions. Prescription painkillers have come under fire in recent years as they have proven to be incredibly addictive. Half the counties in California have banded together to take legal action against pharmaceutical companies as painkiller addiction issues have plagued the state, and other opioids like heroin and fentanyl continue to wreak havoc on our communities.

Prescription Painkillers’ Role in Opioid Addiction in California

The California counties allege that pharmaceutical companies downplayed the addictive nature of prescription painkillers and neglected to act responsibly in areas where unusually large quantities of the drug were routed. Painkiller addiction may impact people across a wide range of demographics from rural areas to larger cities, but the rural counties of California seem to be taking the hardest hits. Part of the issue may reside with healthcare professionals as they have pushed back against regulation and monitoring of prescriptions. However, it’s estimated that 2/3 of the people abusing prescription medicine are borrowing, stealing or buying the medications outside of legal channels.

Heroin is Still a Factor in the Opioid Crisis in California

As the cost of prescription painkillers has risen sharply over the past few years and measures have been taken to make it somewhat harder to divert them to the black market, some people are transitioning to heroin use. Most demographic groups, even those previously not associated with heroin, have shown an uptick in heroin use in recent years. California’s proximity to Mexico makes it a hotspot for smuggling drugs across the border leading to a constant, readily available supply. Heroin is highly addictive, and those trying to quit on their own experience a relapse rate over 90%.

Fentanyl: Another Issue Driving Opioid Addiction in California

As powerful as heroin is, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that can be as much as 50 times more potent. Given its strength and the fact that some users may not even realize they’re taking fentanyl instead of heroin, there has been an alarming increase in overdose cases in California and across the nation. Fentanyl is easy to produce, and it’s cheap which may make it an appealing alternative to those struggling to keep up with a painkiller addiction. A rapid influx in counterfeit medications made from fentanyl can make it extremely difficult to know exactly what you’re taking if you’re sourcing drugs outside of the proper channels.

Find Help for Opioid Addiction at Cycles of Change

Even if they’re only used for a short time, opioids like prescription painkillers, heroin and fentanyl carry a significant risk of addiction. California’s premier opioid rehab treatment center at Cycles of Change can help you gain the courage, knowledge and determination to maintain a drug-free lifestyle. We know treatment is not a one-size-fits-all process, and our team will work with you personally to develop a plan customized to meet your needs. When you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact our compassionate professionals today.

According to a recent survey, more than a quarter of first responders had been diagnosed with depression. That same survey noted that nearly half of them experienced anxiety. People struggling with these conditions may turn to alcohol, painkillers and other substances to self-medicate instead of seeking help. Unfortunately, the relationship between substance use and conditions like anxiety or depression can cause the situation to deteriorate even faster.

Signs of Depression

Many of the first responders surveyed claimed that workplace experiences contributed to their feelings of depression. That’s not much of a surprise considering how often police, EMTs and firefighters are called to deal with people experiencing serious trauma. The long-term psychological toll can gradually wear you down. You might be suffering from depression if you have the following symptoms:

• Hopelessness
• Low energy
• Trouble concentrating or remembering
• Insomnia or oversleeping
• Suicidal thoughts
• Guilt

Common Anxiety Symptoms

Anxiety can manifest in different ways for different people. Some may retreat inwards—isolating themselves from their loved ones. Others may become more outgoing or social to compensate for their feelings. Others may even become combative. These reactions stem from your natural fight, flight or freeze responses to perceived danger. Whether it’s nature, nurture or a combination of both, anxious children often come from anxious parents. Anxiety becomes a way to predict danger and keep yourself safe at an early age so you carry that defense mechanism into other areas of your life. When first responders develop anxiety from unresolved trauma, they may exhibit these symptoms:

• Feelings of depression
• Digestive trouble or nausea
• Headaches
• Respiratory problems
• Panic attacks

The Relationship Between Substance Use and Conditions Like Anxiety and Depression

When anxiety and depression go untreated, some people look for ways to self-medicate. That can take the form of alcoholism or substance use. First responders may face fewer barriers to acquiring a variety of substances given their duties and responsibilities. Grabbing a drink with the crew after a hard day can devolve into a need whether your team members are there or not. Painkillers prescribed for an injury in the line of duty can become a debilitating substance use disorder. Withdrawal symptoms from these substances may exacerbate the negative feelings from anxiety and depression, which makes you feel like using more is the only way to cope. This combination of conditions is called co-occurring disorders, and it’s important to seek help for both from a recovery program. Dual diagnosis treatment can lead to much more favorable outcomes.

Reaching Out for Help

Reaching out for help because of depression, anxiety or a substance use disorder is difficult, especially for first responders. Some fear how the conditions will harm their self-image, while others worry about how their families will respond when they find out. Many fear losing their jobs or credentials when their condition is brought to light or worry they’ll be judged by their colleagues.
However, these conditions are not something to be ashamed of. When struggling with depression, anxiety or substance use, you can’t provide the quality of care you need to. By choosing to seek help from the right treatment program, you’re putting your health first so that you can recover and return to saving lives and helping those in need.

Recovery for First Responders in Palmdale

At Cycles of Change Recovery, we have a program that’s tailored for first responders. Our First Responder Wellness Program can provide you with a personalized treatment plan developed for your unique needs. No two addictions are alike, so no two treatment plans should be. Our team of caring professionals has extensive experience working with first responders, and we are committed to providing you with the support and training you need to cope with issues like anxiety, depression and substance use. If you or a loved one is struggling, contact one of our specialists today.

With warmer weather here, the outdoors social scene is heating up. Parties, cookouts, and beach trips can all be fun ways to unwind. Unfortunately, these and other spring and summer activities may expose a recovering alcoholic to temptation. One of the important skills you’ll develop in an alcohol treatment program is identifying relapse triggers and how to cope with temptation. We have some suggestions that can help you fight the urge to relapse while still allowing yourself to have fun in the sun.

Caution is Key in Alcohol Relapse Prevention

The longer you go without alcohol, the less likely you are to relapse. In the early months and years of recovery, every sober step you take greatly increases your chances of success. During this time frame, it’s best to avoid scenes and situations that may tempt you. Make sure you stick to your prescribed treatment plan and don’t use the increased spring and summer activity list to derail any therapy sessions or meetings. Here are a few suggestions for totally alcohol-free ways to spend your time:

• • Hiking can be a great way to enjoy what these seasons have to offer, with the added benefit of being far from the local bar. Make sure to stay hydrated!
  • Joining a rec league sports team can be another great way to get some exercise and comradery. Look for a recovery-focused sports team or league in your area.
  • Volunteering with a local charity is a great way to occupy your body and mind while helping others.
  • Picking up a new hobby or skill can be a fun way to meet new people and broaden your horizons. You could take up gardening, cooking, art, music, or various other classes or lessons in your area.

Know Your Limits to Avoid Alcohol Relapse

If you’ve been in recovery for a while, you might feel comfortable attending backyard barbecues, beach parties, or music festivals where alcohol is present but not the sole focus of an event. However, some level of caution and preparation is still advised. Set time limits on your involvement and evaluate how you’re dealing with any potential triggers or temptations every hour or so. Bringing a supportive friend along for the ride is a good way to ensure someone will have your back if you begin struggling with temptation. Take things slowly and be ready with an exit strategy in case those familiar urges return.

Understand How Relapse Works

An alcohol relapse isn’t a snap decision made at the moment; it happens in stages. Maybe you haven’t been sleeping well lately. Work or a relationship could be causing you stress. When you’re not taking care of yourself, things begin to work behind the scenes leading to an emotional relapse. From there, you might start thinking about alcohol again. If you don’t deal with the problems at hand, those thoughts, or the beginning stages of mental relapse, can develop into urges. Continuing to ignore the situation is what sets you on course for a physical relapse.

Learning Relapse Prevention Coping Skills

At Cycles of Change, we can help you identify your relapse triggers, so you can develop the skills you need to cope healthily. No two addictions are the same. That’s why our caring team of healthcare professionals and counselors will work with you to develop a treatment plan customized to fit your individual needs and situation. Our luxury drug and alcohol rehab facility in Palmdale, California, offers various programs designed to help you reach your goals. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, contact us today. We are here for you.

When you complete a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program, it can be a little scary leaving the structure and support you received while in treatment. Some treatment centers can help you with aftercare programs that include additional counseling, therapy, activities and support groups. These are great ways to keep your recovery journey on the right track.

However, for those who need a little extra help, you may want to consider an extended care facility. Extended care facilities are group homes that can allow you to return to the normal, everyday world more gradually with a greater support structure.

The Early Days of Recovery

Entering rehab can be an intimidating process at first, but many people quickly find that it becomes like a second home where they don’t have to hide or rush the process. In fact, a recent study found that those who underwent a treatment program that lasted longer than 30 days had an 84% success rate. Once you’ve committed to a recovery program, your first step is detoxification.

This is the period where your body adjusts to the absence of alcohol and other drugs. Depending on the length and severity of your addiction, you may require medically supervised detox. In less severe cases where the withdrawal symptoms or complications aren’t expected to be life-threatening, sub-acute detox is generally recommended. It may take a few days to a couple of weeks to get through this period. There won’t be much in the way of counseling or therapy during this time as it can be difficult to focus and learn while dealing with withdrawals.

Gaining Strength Through Inpatient or Outpatient Programs

Whether your continuing recovery care is provided through inpatient or outpatient programs, you’ll begin learning about your addiction and how to manage it. Developing healthier coping skills, identifying potential relapse triggers and receiving relationship/family counseling are all common practices at this stage. The goal is to prepare you for the obstacles that await when you return to your normal everyday routine.

Some form of ongoing aftercare like support groups, continued individual therapy and other programs is strongly encouraged to help you maintain your newfound sobriety. If you’re hesitant to jump back into your everyday life, extended care can be worked into your program to help make the transition easier.

Things to Look for in Extended Care Facilities

A quality extended care program should provide a number of things to help maintain a semblance of stability and structure for you:

• Group counseling
• Relapse support
• Accountability
• Curfew
• Comfortable, secure homelike atmosphere

Addiction Extended Care for Lancaster, Los Angeles and Palmdale

Cycles of Change Recovery’s partnered extended care home is just that: a home. It’s a place where you can feel safe and secure while receiving the ongoing support you need to make your transition back to society. You’ll enjoy comfortable rooms, indoor and outdoor areas for social engagement and a community that understands what you’re going through. If you or a loved one needs help with addiction, the caring, supportive professionals at Cycles of Change are here for you. Contact us to start your journey towards recovery today.

When you consider the constant onslaught of stress, trauma and danger experienced by first responders, it shouldn’t be too surprising that many of them turn to substance use to help cope. Roughly 40% of EMTs have issues with drug or alcohol use. One in four police officers has a drinking problem. More than a third of firefighters struggle with alcohol or painkiller misuse. Nurses, public safety officials, dispatchers and others involved with this kind of work are also at an increased risk of trouble with substance use. Here are some signs that you might need treatment and what you should look for in a rehabilitation program.

Symptoms of Drug and Alcohol Dependency

Drug and alcohol misuse can lead to changes in behavior like:

• Lack of concern over negative effects of use
• Inability to stop using
• Hiding use (completely or lying about the amount being used)
• Loss of interest in other activities or hobbies

You may also notice physical changes such as:

• Sudden changes in weight
• Poor physical condition or hygiene
• Insomnia
• Bloodshot eyes

Withdrawal symptoms are also a sign of dependency issues and may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Depression
• Headaches
• Hallucinations
• Seizures

PTSD, Stress and Anxiety Require Treatment

When you’re ready to seek help for drug or alcohol issues, it’s important to consider the reasons why you started using in the first place. Make sure you choose a rehabilitation program that will address complicating factors like post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression and other psychological injuries. When these conditions are combined with substance misuse, they are called co-occurring disorders. Treating only part of the problem leads to much higher relapse rates.

Personalized Substance Use Treatment for First Responders

No two people are alike. That’s why you should choose a rehab facility that offers personalized treatment that focuses on you as an individual. There are a number of therapy models that can be used to treat your conditions, and you deserve a compassionate team that will work with you to develop your very own recovery plan. Some therapies that have been shown to be particularly effective for first responders include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Family and couple counseling
• Critical incident stress management
• Psychodrama Therapy
• Creative programs (music and art)

Substance Use Programs for First Responders in Palmdale, CA

The First Responder Wellness Program at Cycles of Change Recovery is here for you. We offer personalized treatment plans that are tailored to meet your unique needs. You will meet with a compassionate team of specialists who has extensive experience working with first responders. Together, you can work on healthier coping strategies for the daily stresses that your career provides and find the road to recovery. Take that first step towards healing and contact our team for a private consultation today.