How to Manage Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia During Recovery

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How to Manage Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia During Recovery

If you’re taking the brave step of getting sober, you might notice trouble sleeping as one of the first hurdles on your recovery path. Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia is one of the most common symptoms, and it can make an already challenging detox process feel even tougher. But here’s the good news-it’s temporary, and there are proven ways to manage it.

Whether you’re going through this yourself, supporting a loved one, or considering professional help, understanding alcohol withdrawal insomnia is an important first step.

This blog will guide you through why insomnia occurs during alcohol detox, how long it typically lasts, practical tips for improving sleep, and when to seek medical help. If you’re in the Santa Cruz area, Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness can provide the professional care and support you need to recover safely.

Why Does Insomnia Happen During Alcohol Withdrawal?

To understand why insomnia occurs during alcohol withdrawal, it helps to know alcohol’s impact on the brain and sleep cycles. Here’s what happens:

  • Alcohol as a sedative: Alcohol is a depressant that slows down your brain and central nervous system. It has sedative-like effects, which is why some people use it to fall asleep. However, while alcohol may help you fall asleep initially, it disrupts the deeper stages of sleep, like REM sleep, making your rest less restorative.
  • Rebound effect after quitting: When you stop drinking, your body struggles to adjust. This leads to a phenomenon called “rebound insomnia,” where your brain tries to balance itself after prolonged exposure to alcohol.
  • Anxiety and physical symptoms: Anxiety, irritability, and physical symptoms like sweating or shaking during withdrawal can make falling and staying asleep difficult.

Insomnia isn’t just a side effect of withdrawal-it’s a key symptom in post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can last for weeks or months after detox. Without good sleep, your body and mind aren’t able to heal fully, making insomnia a roadblock in recovery.

How Long Does Insomnia Last During Alcohol Withdrawal?

The duration of alcohol withdrawal insomnia varies, depending on factors like your history of alcohol use, age, overall health, and support system. Typically, here’s what to expect:

  1. Acute Withdrawal (Days 1-7): The first week is often the hardest. You may experience severe insomnia during this period, accompanied by other withdrawal symptoms like tremors, nausea, and mood swings.
  2. Early Recovery (Weeks 2-8): Insomnia usually begins to improve after the first week, but your sleep may still be irregular. It depends on how long you used alcohol and how it affected your sleep patterns over time.
  3. Long-Term Recovery (Months 2+): For some, insomnia can linger for months as the brain continues to heal. This is often tied to PAWS, highlighting the importance of ongoing support and self-care.

Keep in mind that everyone’s recovery is different. If your insomnia persists or worsens, it’s essential to seek professional help to address any underlying issues.

Effects of Insomnia on Recovery

Prolonged insomnia doesn’t just leave you feeling tired-it can directly impact your recovery. Here’s how:

  • Weakened resolve: Poor sleep can cloud your judgment and make alcohol cravings harder to resist.
  • Mental health challenges: Chronic insomnia increases the risk of depression and anxiety, both of which can be triggers for relapse.
  • Physical health issues: Lack of sleep weakens your immune system, slows physical healing, and can exacerbate other withdrawal symptoms.

The takeaway? Addressing insomnia isn’t optional during withdrawal-it’s a vital part of recovery.

Practical Tips for Managing Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia

How to Manage Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia During Recovery

If alcohol withdrawal insomnia is keeping you awake at night, there are steps you can take to improve your sleep and support your recovery:

1. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

  • Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
  • Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet.
  • Avoid blue light from phones or screens at least an hour before bed.

2. Establish a Sleep Routine

  • Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
  • Develop pre-sleep rituals like reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath.

3. Practice Relaxation Techniques

  • Try deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce anxiety.
  • Use mindfulness apps or guided meditation to calm your mind before bed.

4. Avoid Stimulants in the Evening

  • Limit caffeine intake after noon.
  • Eat light meals in the evening, avoiding heavy or spicy foods.

5. Stay Active During the Day

  • Regular exercise can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle, but avoid vigorous workouts close to bedtime.

6. Avoid Alcohol Substitutes

  • Some mistakenly turn to over-the-counter sleep aids or other substances, which can carry their own risks. Always consult a healthcare professional before trying new medications.

While these tips can help, remember that insomnia during alcohol withdrawal can sometimes require medical supervision. If you’re struggling to sleep despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.

When to Seek Professional Help for Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia

Insomnia can sometimes signal that your withdrawal symptoms need medical attention. You should seek help if:

  • Insomnia persists for more than a few weeks without improvement.
  • You experience additional symptoms like hallucinations, seizures, or severe anxiety.
  • You feel overwhelmed or unable to manage your recovery on your own.

At Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness in Santa Cruz, we specialize in helping individuals manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms safely and effectively. Our team of experts provides personalized care to support your sleep, mental health, and overall recovery.

Take the Next Step Toward Restful Nights and Sobriety

Insomnia during alcohol withdrawal can be tough, but it’s a temporary challenge on the road to a healthier, more fulfilling life. By understanding why it happens and taking proactive steps to manage it, you can set yourself up for success in recovery.

If you’re ready to take control of your sobriety with expert care and support, Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness is here for you. Call our admissions team at (831) 515-1657 to discuss how we can help you sleep better, heal faster, and build a brighter future.

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Meth Addiction Weaning

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Meth Addiction Symptoms

Methamphetamine (meth) is a highly potent and addictive synthetic stimulant drug that once started is very difficult to quit. The short-term effects of meth, such as increased confidence, more energy, and a need for less sleep, make it desirable. However, long-term use of meth causes significant destruction to health, mental health, cognition, and personal relationships. 

If you are considering quitting meth, you may wonder if meth addiction weaning is a viable withdrawal option. To learn about meth detox, withdrawal, and treatment, please read on

Signs of Meth Addiction

Meth is consumed in several ways: smoked, snorted, injected, or swallowed in pill form. The drug produces a surge of dopamine plus powerful stimulant effects. For these reasons it is possible to become addicted to meth after only one use. 

The signs of meth addiction include physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms of meth addiction:

  • Insomnia. The stimulant effects of meth cause the individual to be unable to sleep.
  • Loss of appetite. Meth addiction reduces the appetite, resulting in a dramatic weight loss.
  • Hyperactivity. Meth speeds up neural activity in the central nervous system. This causes rapid speech, compulsive behaviors, nervousness, euphoria, increased sexual libido, rapid eye movements, and jerky motions.
  • Paranoia. With continued use, meth can cause symptoms of psychosis, such as paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions. 
  • Skin sores. The drug causes a sensation of bugs crawling on or under the skin. This leads to compulsive itching that causes skin sores.
  • Severe tooth decay. Serious tooth decay known as meth mouth is caused by excessive dry mouth, jaw clenching and neglect of dental hygiene.
  • High-risk erratic behaviors. Impulsive behaviors include, driving under the influence, stealing and other illegal activities, and unsafe sexual practices.
  • Trouble with the law. Meth addicts often have legal problems, such as DUIs, child neglect, or arrests for theft or violence. 
  • Aging skin. Over time, the facial skin takes on a loose, droopy tone. Other skin effects include facial sores and an odd odor to the skin.
  • Paraphernalia. The addict uses various items. These include small plastic bags, aluminum foil strips, lighters, hollowed out pens, cut straws, glass tubes, syringes, armbands, and spoons.

Adverse Effects of Meth Addiction

This dangerous synthetic drug can cause immense destruction in someone’s life. Drug addiction, cognitive impairment, loss of employment, strained relationships, memory loss, and health problems are just some examples.

Here are some additional adverse effects of meth addiction:

  • Psychosis. Long-term use of meth may result in severe mental health crisis including delusions, paranoid thoughts, and hallucinations.
  • Brain damage. The toxic chemicals in meth have the potential to cause permanent brain damage.
  • Parkinson’s disease. A recent study showed that meth addicts were at an increase risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
  • High-risk behaviors. Meth reduces a person’s ability to control their impulses, which can result in them engaging in dangerous activities.
  • Explosions and fires. The process of making meth in a makeshift lab or home is very dangerous due to the ingredients being heated. These can cause explosions.
  • Accidental overdose. Meth overdose may result in heart attack, stroke, or by organ failure caused by overheating.

Why Meth Should Not be Stopped Cold Turkey

If you are wondering if meth addiction weaning is a possible way to quit the drug, the truth is it just isn’t. This drug is different than opioids, where gradual weaning reduces withdrawal severity. With a meth addiction, weaning is not an option. 

However, it is important not to attempt quitting meth cold turkey on your own. Quitting suddenly without detox and withdrawal support can have tragic results, such as suicide. Starting with the meth crash, the forthcoming withdrawal symptoms will overwhelm you and cause you to return to the drug.

With a monitored meth detox, withdrawal is still difficult but you will receive ongoing support by a trained detox team. The detox team provides key medical interventions once withdrawal symptoms start to surface, which helps to stabilize you. In addition, you will also receive psychological support as needed. After the detox is complete, you will be stable enough to start rehab.

Meth Addiction Withdrawal Timeline

The stages of meth withdrawal begin about 24 hours after last usage. Although the period for withdrawal and the severity of symptoms varies between individual, the process follows these three stages:

Stage One. The earliest stage of withdrawal lasts about 24-48 hours. It features intense fatigue and lethargy, mood swings, abdominal cramping, sweating, and excessive sleeping.

Stage Two. The second stage of withdrawal features an intensification of symptoms and lasts a day or two. Symptoms include agitation, shaking, muscle aches, decline in cognitive function, drug cravings, irritability, and possibly acting out violently.

Stage Three. The last stage of the meth withdrawal can last about two weeks. Even though the physical withdrawal symptoms mostly resolved, there are still other symptoms that linger. These may include fatigue, depression, mild cravings, cognitive issues, anxiety, and sleep problems.

Treatment Options for Meth Addiction

To achieve sustained abstinence from meth, a professional outpatient or residential treatment program is needed. Receiving this expert guidance and support offers the best chance of recovery success, as it helps you change behaviors. To date, there are no specific drugs to assist in reducing meth dependence, so behavioral therapies are the best option.

Treatment for meth addiction includes:

Individual psychotherapy. Taking part in talk therapy sessions includes cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT has been shown to be the most effective modality for treating meth addiction as it targets behavioral change. 

Group therap. Group sessions are led by a therapist or addictions counselor who facilitates discussion among the group around various recovery topics.

Dual diagnosis treatment. Because co-occurring mental health disorders are common among meth addicts, any comorbid condition is also treated.

Holistic. You will engage in various holistic methods that help induce relaxation and self-soothing.

12-step recovery program: A.A.’s 12-step themes are often included in the treatment program. After rehab you are encouraged to participate in a local A.A. or N.A. recovery group for ongoing social support.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Provides Safe Meth Detox and Withdrawal

Bodhi Addiction Treatment offers expert meth addiction weaning through a monitored detox and withdrawal to guide you safely off the drug. We offer comprehensive outpatient treatment services immediately following the detox. If a more intensive treatment approach is needed, we will refer you to a high quality residential rehab. If you are struggling with met addiction, please reach out today at (831) 515-1657.

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Adderall Addiction Treatment

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adderall addiction

Adderall is a prescription stimulant drug that has been very effective in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As a stimulant, Adderall has come to be misused by students as a aid to increase focus and stamina. As a highly addictive stimulant, someone may find themselves chemically addicted to the drug. To learn about the dangers of this prescription drug and what to expect in Adderall addiction treatment, please read on.

What Is Adderall?

Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance that is composed of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. The stimulant drug is primarily intended for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. However, Adderall has become a drug of abuse among students and young adults who seek its stimulant properties.

While Adderall abuse has been declining among high school students in recent years, it has increased in the young adult cohort. From 2020 to 2021 Adderall prescription fills increased by 10%, for a total of 41.4 million Adderall fills in 2021.

When individuals with no medical necessity misuse Adderall, it produces a state of euphoria by increasing dopamine production in the brain. This effect is not experienced in a patient being treated with Adderall for ADHD. The euphoric effects, plus an increase in energy and cognitive focus, attract students who seek the drug as a study aid.

Who Is Prone to Adderall Misuse?
Many people who take Adderall off-label feel that it is a safe drug because doctors prescribe it for many of their peers who have ADHD. They are not aware that the drug reacts in the brain in a similar way to cocaine or meth, and that they can quickly become addicted.

There are various factors that might make an individual more prone to Adderall misuse. The pressures of school and work may prompt young people to turn to a stimulant drug like Adderall to help them keep up.

The groups that are at higher risk for developing an Adderall addiction include:

  • College students. A report cites that 60% of all Adderall consumption was by 18-25 year old’s. This age group may also use Adderall to offset the effects of alcohol when partying.
  • Athletes. High school, college, and even professional athletes misuse Adderall as a performance-enhancing drug.
  • Individuals with disordered eating. Individuals wishing to lose weight misuse Adderall for its appetite suppressing effects.
  • Adults with high-stress jobs. Working adults with demanding jobs misuse Adderall to increase energy and the ability to work long hours.

What are Signs of Adderall Addiction?

Adderall, when misused on a regular basis by those without ADHD, can quickly become habit-forming or addictive. This occurs as the body begins to build up tolerance to the drug’s effects, which leads to higher dosing.

Some of the telltale signs of an Adderall addiction might include:

  • Being unable to function or to complete tasks without the drug
  • Feeling sluggish when not on the drug
  • Irritability
  • Decreased libido
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Insomnia
  • Aggression
  • Needing more Adderall to attain desired effects
  • Not able to cut back or quit the Adderall
  • Obsessed about obtaining the drug and keeping a supply of it
  • Continue taking Adderall even though it is causing adverse effects
  • Use Adderall in risky ways, such as combining it with other substances
  • Social withdrawal
  • Secretive behavior
  • Have withdrawal symptoms when Adderall wears off

 

What to Expect in Adderall Addiction Treatment

 

Chronic Adderall abuse can take a heavy toll on both mental and physical health. Prolonged Adderall use can result in organ damage, long-term cognitive impairment, and an increased risk of injuries.

 

If you or a loved one is struggling with Adderall misuse and are ready to commit to abstinence, consider addiction treatment. An outpatient or residential treatment program can provide you with the recovery tools you’ll need to overcome an Adderall addiction.

Here is what to expect in Adderall addiction treatment:

  • Detox. Our recovery journey begins with detox and withdrawal, the process of eliminating the drug from your system. During the detox, you will experience withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the Adderall problem. Withdrawal symptoms might include:
    • Fatigue
    • Extreme
    • Headaches
    • Insomnia
    • Nausea
    • Agitation
    • Mental fog
    • Irritability
    • Insomnia or hypersomnia
    • Depression
    • Suicidal thoughts

    The detox team closely monitors the symptoms and provides medication to help relieve them throughout the process.

  • Individual therapy. These one-to-one sessions with a therapist help you to work on changing addiction behaviors through evidence-based therapies.
  • Group sessions. Group therapy offers a safe, supportive space to discuss personal experiences and feelings with peers in recovery.
  • Family counseling. Because struggling with Adderall problem are young college-aged adults, family-focused groups can be provide support of the family.
  • 12-step facilitation. The 12-step program is helpful in early recovery as it provides benchmarks to guild you as you progress.
  • Holistic methods. Holistic activities provide added tools to help you succeed in the treatment and recovery process. Meditation, yoga, and focused breathing techniques help you to better manage stress.
  • Relapse prevention planning. Making a custom relapse prevention plan is an essential recovery tool.

Secure Adderall Recovery with Aftercare

Detox and rehab provide the foundation for Adderall recovery. However, in order to secure your Adderall-free lifestyle you will need to engage in aftercare actions. Working with your case manager, you will devise an aftercare strategy. Some of these actions might include:

  • Outpatient therapy. Whether you have completed a residential treatment program or an intensive outpatient program, it is good to continue with therapy. Weekly therapy sessions or support group sessions can be an essential source of ongoing support.
  • Recovery group. When you are starting a sober lifestyle, it always helps to find peers in recovery for added support. There are several types of recovery groups out there, such as A.A., N.A., SMART Recovery, and more. These groups provide a source for new sober friendships and they become part of your support network.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment & Wellness Outpatient Adderall Addiction Treatment

Bodhi Addiction Treatment is an outpatient addiction treatment program that blend holistic wellness methods with evidence-based therapies. If you are struggling with Adderally, reach out to the Bodhi team today at(877) 328-1968.

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Meth Addiction Symptoms

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Meth Addiction Symptoms

Methamphetamine (crystal meth or meth) is a highly addictive and harmful substance that stimulates the central nervous system. Meth is associated with about 25% of emergency room visits, mostly within the 26 to 44-age bracket of users. To learn more meth addiction symptoms and its effects on the mind and body, please read on.

Learn About Meth

Meth is an illicit substance that is used in a variety of ways for recreational use. These include smoking, orally using pill form, snorting, and injecting the drug. Meth may be purchased in a white powder form, which can be fine or coarse in appearance. Meth can take on hues of pink or yellow when cut with various additives. The drug is also distributed in rock or crystal form.

Meth is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Meth is produced using the stimulants ephedrine and pseudoephedrine and combined with common household products to enhance the psychoactive effects. These products might include antifreeze, lithium, hydrogen peroxide, drain cleaner, and Freon.

Effects of Meth

Someone who ingests meth will experience a short-lived high that includes increased euphoria, heightened energy, increased alertness, and wellbeing. However, there are also some common adverse effects, such as:

  • Hyperactivity, mania
  • Tremors
  • Shortness of breath
  • Vomiting
  • Irritability
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss
  • Diarrhea
  • Weigh loss
  • Insomnia

How Meth Impacts Your Life

Individuals who become addicted to meth suffer many terrible consequences. Due to the toxic substances contained in meth, there can be harsh effects on the body. Equally severe are the various other effects this drug can have on someone’s life. These negative effects may include:

  • Loss of bone density
  • Severe dental decay
  • Abscesses and skin infections
  • Weaken immune system
  • HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B or C
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Memory loss
  • Isolation
  • Strained relationships
  • Job instability
  • Academic failure
  • Finance problems
  • Legal problems
  • Mental health problems
  • Suicidal thoughts or actions

Why is Meth so Dangerous?

There is good reason to be very concerned about someone who is engaging in meth use. This is a dangerous compound that can have many life threatening or life altering effects. Consider these:

  • Addiction. Meth is highly addictive because it releases a flood of dopamine in the brain, which results in drug seeking behaviors. This sets in motion the meth addiction symptoms that follow. A person can get addicted after just one use.
  • Brain damage. The toxic chemicals in meth have the potential to cause permanent brain damage.
  • Psychosis. Long-term use of meth may result in severe mental health crisis including delusions, paranoid thoughts, and hallucinations.
  • Parkinson’s disease. A recent study showed that meth addicts were at an increase risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
  • High-risk behaviors. Meth reduces a person’s ability to control their impulses, which can result in them engaging in dangerous activities.
  • Explosions and fires. The process of making meth in a makeshift lab or home is very dangerous due to the ingredients being heated. These can cause explosions.
  • Overdose. Meth overdose may result in heart attack, stroke, or by organ failure caused by overheating.

Meth Addiction Signs and Symptoms

So, how do you know if someone is using meth or is addicted to the drug? What are the red flags to look out for?

Regular use of the drug leads to increased tolerance. This leads the person to use higher doses of meth in an attempt to achieve the desired effects. In time, the common signs of a meth problem begin to surface. Meth addiction symptoms cover a broad gamut and include:

  • Trying to stop using meth but cannot
  • Stealing money to buy the drug
  • Continuing to use meth despite the negative effects
  • Social withdrawal
  • Impulsive behaviors
  • Obsessed with obtaining and using meth
  • Unusual bursts of energy
  • Lack of sleep
  • Weight loss
  • Agitation
  • Severe mood swings
  • Frequent absences from work
  • Mental confusion
  • Tooth decay
  • Poor hygiene
  • Signs of psychosis
  • How Meth Affects the Mind

Studies have shown that because meth affects the central nervous system, ongoing use can cause the destruction of brain cells or neurons. The death of neurons then causes brain damage in a number of areas in the brain that can be permanent.

Meth also has an outsized effect on mental health. Some of the ways meth addiction symptoms can include mental health are:

  • Insomnia
  • Violent tendencies
  • Homicidal or suicidal thoughts
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Paranoia
  • Feeling that bugs are crawling under the skin
  • Reduced concentration
  • Memory impairment
  • Psychosis

How to Break Free from a Meth Addiction

Meth addiction is very difficult to overcome, although definitely possible. To be successful, it is critical that you or the loved one enroll in detox and then a treatment program. Here are the steps for meth addiction recovery:

  • Meth detox. Detox and withdrawal is the first step in recovery. Detox is the process of ridding the body of any meth still in the system. Withdrawal symptoms are difficult to endure without professional oversight, especially the mental health effects of withdrawal. The detox team provides both medical and emotional support.Symptoms may include:
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Extreme fatigue
    • Intense cravings
    • Dry mouth
    • Shaking
    • Lethargy and sleepiness
    • Insomnia or hypersomnia
    • Nightmares
    • Increased appetite
    • Agitation
    • Mood swings
    • Confusion
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Paranoia
  • Therapy. Individual and group therapy sessions involve working with licensed therapists to examine any underlying factors that drive the addictive behaviors.
  • Psycho-social education. You will engage in classes that teach new coping skills to help you navigate recovery and avoid meth relapse.
  • 12-step. Recovery programs like A.A., N.A., or SMART Recovery are often woven into the treatment milieu.
  • Dual diagnosis. Many times someone with a meth addiction also has a co-occurring mental health disorder which will also be treated during rehab.
  • Holistic methods. A whole person focus allows you to explore holistic activities that provide healing of both mind and body.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment & Wellness Offers Guidance for Meth Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment is an outpatient program that also provides interventions and referrals to high quality residential treatment centers. If you recognize the meth addiction symptoms in a loved one, please reach out to us today for support and guidance at (877) 328-1968.

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What is Coke Jaw

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What is Coke Jaw?

Most people are familiar with the affects of cocaine on the nose and the damage to nasal tissues and cartilage. However, cocaine also causes damage to the mouth, teeth, and jaw by something called coke jaw. So, what is coke jaw?

Some Basic Facts About Cocaine (Coke)

Cocaine, also known as coke, is a powdered substance derived from the coca leaf. Cocaine is a strong stimulant that speeds up the central nervous system. The effects of cocaine on the central nervous system and brain include increased heart and breathing rates. As a recreational drug, cocaine provides several desired effects, such as euphoria, increased energy, sharp focus, and improved mood.

Cocaine effects are very short-lived, though, which can cause the person to continue using the drug to prolong the high. Continued use of cocaine eventually results in addiction and chronic constriction of blood vessels.

Cocaine is a DEA designated Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it is highly addictive. It is also being implicated in overdose deaths in recent years. This is due to fentanyl being inserted into cocaine supplies, causing people to unknowingly ingest the deadly opioid.

What is Coke Jaw?

Cocaine use causes people to clench the jaw and grind the teeth, called bruxism. As they clench their teeth they wear the enamel down and cause loose teeth. Long-term cocaine abuse can also cause involuntary spasms that result in uncontrollable jaw clenching.

The stimulant properties in cocaine cause hyperactive muscle movements, including the muscles that control the jaw. The person moves the jaw or mouth from side to side, often without even realizing it.

Cocaine can be ingested in various ways, including snorting, smoking, injecting a liquefied form, and rubbing it on the gums. This last delivery method can lead to direct damage of the mouth and jaw.

Is Coke Jaw the Same as Coke Mouth?

Coke jaw and coke mouth are two side effects of cocaine on oral health. Coke mouth refers mostly to a condition called xerostomia, otherwise known as dry mouth. Cocaine abuse can lead to dry mouth because of a decrease in saliva production.

Because saliva protects the gums and teeth from acids, any decrease in saliva puts them at risk. The extra acids in the mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Coke jaw, on the other hand, also impacts the mouth and teeth, but is caused by uncontrollable jaw clenching and teeth grinding.

Signs of Coke Jaw

Chances are if you are wondering, “What is coke jaw?” you may have a friend or relative with a cocaine problem. If the person has signs of oral trauma along with other symptoms associated with cocaine addiction, it might be coke jaw.

Most of the signs of coke jaw are also signs of temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD affects how you chew, talk, swallow, and open and close your mouth. Symptoms that TMD and coke jaw share include:

  • Tooth grinding
  • Jaw clenching
  • Dental erosion
  • Increased tooth sensitivity
  • Headaches
  • Jaw joint pain
  • Clicking or popping sound in jaw joint
  • Facial pain or soreness

What are the Effects of Coke Jaw?

Coke jaw can cause substantial damage to the mouth, teeth, and jaw. The effects of coke jaw include:

  • Loose teeth
  • Worn down tooth enamel
  • Tooth decay
  • Bleeding gums
  • Periodontal disease
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Perforation of the oral palate
  • Infection of the jaw bone

Coke Jaw and Cocaine Addiction

When cocaine is used repeatedly for an extended period, it often results in addiction. The addiction is directly related to the brain’s reward system, which imprints the use of cocaine as a positive experience. This drives cocaine cravings and abuse, and leads to cocaine addiction. Coke jaw is just one of the overt signs of cocaine addiction.

Other signs and symptoms of cocaine abuse and addiction include:

  • Sudden weight loss
  • Less need for sleep
  • Frequent nosebleeds
  • Rapid speech
  • Manic moods
  • Cocaine drug cravings
  • Cannot cut back or quit cocaine, even if the person wants to
  • Increased tolerance that causes higher doses or more frequent cocaine use
  • Chronic runny nose and sniffing
  • Obsessed with obtaining cocaine and planning the next high
  • Seeking cocaine from sketchy sources
  • Severe money problems
  • Continue to use cocaine, despite the problems it causes
  • Engaging in high-risk or impulsive behaviors
  • Neglecting daily responsibilities
  • Has withdrawal symptoms when coke wears off

Finding Help for Coke Addiction: Cocaine Detox

Cocaine detox and withdrawal is similar to other stimulants that affect the nervous system in this way. While there are uncomfortable physical symptoms, cocaine withdrawal causes mostly mental health distress. Without a skilled detox team watching over someone throughout the process, the person can be so overwhelmed by the symptoms. Suicidal thoughts are the most worrisome problem that occurs during cocaine withdrawal.

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Extreme fatigue
  • Depression
  • Slowed thinking
  • Headaches
  • Agitation
  • Sleep problems
  • Intense nightmares
  • Restlessness
  • Increased appetite
  • Hallucinations
  • Paranoid thoughts
  • Muscle aches
  • Chills
  • Suicidal thoughts

The cocaine detox timeline is about one week. Once the detox is complete it is time to transfer into the treatment phase.

Treatment for Coke Addiction

After you have safely completed a cocaine detox, it is time to start the addiction treatment program. There are two levels of outpatient care available, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization. Outpatient programs provide flexibility in scheduling treatment sessions, and allow you to reside at home while participating in the program.

Core treatment elements include:

  • Individual psychotherapy sessions
  • Group therapy sessions
  • Family group
  • Addiction education
  • Relapse prevention planning
  • 12-step program
  • Holistic activities

The length of your outpatient program is determined by the severity of the cocaine addiction. The average duration of an outpatient rehab is 90 days.

Once a period of recovery has been achieved, some of the coke jaw symptoms might resolve. Consult a dentist for repairing broken or decayed teeth, and a periodontist can treat any remaining gum damage.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Outpatient Treatment for Cocaine Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment is a holistic and evidence-based intensive outpatient rehab that can help you overcome cocaine addiction. If you are ready to break free from the hold of cocaine over you, please reach out to us today at (877) 328-1968.

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What are Outpatient Treatment Programs?

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What are Outpatient Treatment Programs?

When seeking rehab options for a substance use disorder you have two basic options: residential rehab or outpatient rehab. While each of these treatment options has unique benefits and features, this article will focus on outpatient rehabs. So, what are outpatient treatment programs and is it the right choice for you?

What is an Outpatient Treatment Program?

Outpatient treatment programs are a widely used option for individuals seeking to overcome a substance use disorder. The outpatient option is best for those with an emerging or mild substance problem. It offers comprehensive treatment elements while also providing the flexibility to continue to reside at home. For individuals with a long-term drug or alcohol addiction, a residential treatment program would be a better solution.

About Outpatient Rehab

If you are wondering, “What are outpatient treatment programs,” you will learn all about them here. Outpatient addiction treatment takes place in treatment centers for a prescribed number of hours per week. This commuter treatment option is preferable for those who can’t take a leave of absence from work or family obligations.

Outpatient treatment is less intensive than residential programs, which feature a full schedule of daily treatment activities. However, outpatient rehabs tend to be longer term, with most outpatient programs lasting 3-6 months.

Outpatient treatment centers are equipped to treat a wide range of substance use disorders. There include:

  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Opioid use disorder
  • Heroin
  • Methamphetamine
  • Benzodiazepine use disorder
  • Prescription stimulant use disorder
  • Prescription depressant use disorder
  • Cocaine
  • Marijuana
  • Synthetic drugs

Outpatient treatment comes in different levels of intensity. Many people begin at the highest level of outpatient intensity and then step down over time. As well, those who have completed an inpatient program often step down to outpatient treatment.

What are the Benefits of an Outpatient Rehab Program?

When researching outpatient versus inpatient rehabs, you will learn there are pros and cons of each option. Some of the benefits of outpatient treatment include:

  • More flexible. Outpatient offers flexibility in scheduling treatment sessions
  • Freedom. You are able to continue to engage with work, family, and friends while enrolled in treatment
  • Less expensive. Outpatient treatment is available at a lower cost than residential rehabs
  • Continuum of care. Able to step down to reduced levels of care when recovery benchmarks are met
  • Access to support. Outpatient offers easier access to the support of family and friends
  • Case management. There is coordination of adjunct and aftercare services

Even with its many advantages, outpatient care isn’t suitable for everyone. Some of the drawbacks to consider include:

  • Exposure to substances. If the home environment exposes you to alcohol and drugs, it will be difficult to remain sober.
  • Exposure to friends who use. Interaction with people you used to party with will undermine sobriety.
  • Temptation to quit. Being at home around family and friends, especially when holidays or festive occasions arise, may tempt you to stop treatment.

Types of Outpatient Treatment

There are three types of outpatient addiction treatment. These include:

  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): The PHP, also called day programs, offer the highest level of outpatient care. PHP involves an intensive schedule of about 30 hours of programming per week. The PHP offers detox services, mental health services, individual and group therapy, and a physician on site.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): The IOP provides a well-rounded outpatient program of about 9 hours of programming per week. Program elements include psychotherapy, addiction education, and 12-step programming, with detox services referred out.
  • Outpatient Continuing Care: This is the least intensive outpatient rehab. Basic outpatient therapy is a step down for those who have completed an IOP or a residential program.

Types of Therapy in Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient treatment programs utilize a broad range of therapies to help individuals make important changes in their behavior patterns. These include:

  • Individual therapy. In these one-to-one sessions, you explore dysfunctional behavior patterns that keep you locked in the addiction cycle. Therapies like CBT and DBT guide you toward making needed changes that help to strengthen your recovery.
  • Group therapy sessions. Outpatient programs focus much of their treatment on group sessions. It is believed that peer interaction and social support are essential for making progress in treatment. During group sessions, a clinician provides topics for each meeting.
  • Family therapy. A healthy family system is central for creating needed support and boundaries within a safe and supportive space. Family sessions are geared toward improving communication and conflict resolution skills.
  • Holistic activities. Outpatient programs often provide yoga and meditation to aid in stress management.
  • Medication management. Medications may be useful to help manage cravings and reduce relapse.

How to Sustain Recovery After Outpatient Treatment

Once your outpatient rehab program has been completed, your main focus turns to avoiding a relapse. Here are some actions that can help reinforce sobriety after rehab:

  1. Self care. To manage stress, it is important to access self-care strategies. These might include deep breathing techniques, yoga, mindfulness training, meditation, massage, and acupuncture.
  2. Make new friends. To avoid feelings of boredom or loneliness it is crucial to form new sober friendships. Find new sober friends through support groups, sober clubs, sober travel groups, and sober gyms.
  3. Recovery community. Find a local A.A. or N.A. or SMART Recovery group and attend meetings regularly.
  4. Sober living. Sober living housing can be very helpful if you don’t enjoy a supportive home environment. Sober living provides housing that is drug and alcohol free during the early months of recovery.
  5. Get healthy. Substance use recovery should also involve new healthy habits. The stronger and healthier you feel, the lower your chance of relapse. Clean up your diet, get daily exercise, and make sure you get enough sleep each night.

If you are looking into rehab options and wanted to know what are outpatient treatment programs, now you know. Help is available, so reach out now.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Offers Outpatient Addiction Rehab Services

Bodhi Addiction Treatment has created the Bodhi Wellness Program to assist individuals seeking help for substance use disorder. If you are wondering what are outpatient treatment programs like at Bodhi, please reach out to us today at (877) 328-1968.

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Cocaine Detox

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Discover the steps and support available for cocaine detox at Bodhi Addiction & Wellness, ensuring a safe start to recovery.

Cocaine remains a popular recreational drug in the U.S., even as cocaine overdose deaths steadily increase. For those who have made the decision to stop using cocaine, the recovery journey starts with cocaine detox and withdrawal.

Cocaine Statistics

Cocaine use in the U.S. continues to rise, as do the overdose deaths related to cocaine. In the year 2000 there were 3,544 cocaine overdose deaths, but by 2016 that number had nearly tripled to 10,000. In 2021, the number of cocaine deaths ballooned to 24,486. Sadly, in 2023 21.2% of all drug overdoses involved cocaine.

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant drug that provides many desirable effects initially. People who use cocaine experience euphoria, a burst of energy, mental alertness, and become very talkative. These initial effects are why cocaine is such a sought after party drug.

With continued use, however, the brain adapts to the constant presence of the drug in the system, which then causes severe boomerang effects when it wears off. The person becomes irritable, fatigued, depressed, and sleeps excessively. These withdrawal symptoms plus cocaine cravings prompt the person to take more cocaine, and the cycle continues.

There are some distinct signs and symptoms that indicate a cocaine addiction has formed. These include:

  • Try to cut back or quit cocaine but cannot.
  • Use more cocaine for a longer period than intended.
  • Hyper-focused on cocaine, spending time and money to obtain it.
  • Keep using cocaine despite the negative consequences
  • Increased tolerance to its effects, needing more to obtain the desired high.
  • Risk-taking or impulsive behaviors.
  • Giving up usual activities and hobbies, withdrawing from friends and family.
  • Paranoid behavior.
  • Irritability, agitation, mood swings.
  • Weight loss.
  • Lack of sleep.
  • Relationship problems caused by cocaine use.
  • Withdrawal symptoms when the cocaine wears off.

When It’s Time for Cocaine Detox

Cocaine can cause damage to the nasal tissues, harm relationships, derail careers, ruin finances, and increase the risk of overdose. It is time to quit cocaine when you recognize the signs of addiction and all the damage it has done.

It is never a good idea to try to quit cocaine on your own without medical support. This is especially true if you have engaged in chronic cocaine use for an extended period of time. An expert detox team with medical training can help you manage the cocaine detox and withdrawal symptoms.

The primary benefit from having support while going through cocaine withdrawal is avoiding relapse. Withdrawal is difficult to manage on your own, and the cocaine cravings may overwhelm you, causing you to give up. With the help of a medical detox team you can withstand the cocaine detox and make it into treatment.

Cocaine Detox and Withdrawal Symptoms

The cocaine withdrawal symptoms will range from mild to severe based on how your cocaine addiction history. Also, if there are other substances involved or if you have a mental health issue it could complicate the detox.

During the cocaine detox you will experience a variety of withdrawal symptoms. The detox professionals provide the medical and psychological support needed to help you persevere and complete the detox.

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms may include:

    Sweating

  • Exhaustion
  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Intense cocaine cravings
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Shaking
  • Sleep disruption
  • Paranoid thoughts
  • Agitation
  • Suicidal thoughts

It takes about one to two weeks to detox from cocaine. Once the detox is completed, it is time to enter rehab, and it is there that you’ll change your life.

Getting Help for a Cocaine Addiction

Rehabilitation involves a multi-modal system of therapies and activities that will help you learn how to respond to cravings and triggers going forward. The therapies are mostly behavioral in scope, as these assist you in shaping your decisions in your new sober life.

This is a process that takes time and commitment to implement because you have to learn how to override the former addiction habits. Your rehab options depend largely on the severity of your cocaine addiction, and your resources, such as insurance coverage.

Outpatient rehab is a viable option for a milder or emerging cocaine addiction, and is available in two levels of care. The intensive outpatient program provides about nine hours of therapy and support per week. The partial hospitalization program is the highest level of outpatient addiction treatment and provides 25-35 hours of programming weekly.

Residential rehab is a more intensive treatment program for individuals with a moderate to severe cocaine addiction. Residential treatment is also advised for those who also have a mental health disorder, or a polysubstance use disorder. These programs provide round the clock support and a secure, structured treatment setting.

How Detox and Treatment Help You Overcome Cocaine Addiction

Regardless of whether you have chosen to receive treatment in an outpatient or residential setting, you must first complete detox. After the cocaine has left your system and you are stabilized, your body and mind will be ready for treatment.

Both outpatient and residential rehabs share common treatment elements. These include:

  • Psychotherapy. Individual talk therapy sessions are central to successful addiction treatment. Through therapies like CBT, Contingency Management, or DBT, these sessions can help you make changes in your thought patterns and behaviors.A
  • Group therapy. Peer group sessions provide a chance to discuss your personal experiences and recovery topics with others.
  • Family therapy. Since cocaine addiction impacts the whole family, the family sessions provide guidance and healing for all members.
  • 12-step program. N.A. or A.A. themes are integrated into the rehab program.
  • Classes. You’ll learn new coping skills that are essential for supporting recovery and to help prevent relapse.
  • Holistic. Holistic methods are included because they can help you better manage stress or anxiety. These include activities like yoga classes, art therapy, mindfulness, and massage.

Completing the cocaine detox is the first step of your journey toward wellness. Reach out for support today!

Bodhi Addiction & Wellness Guides the Cocaine Detox Process

Bodhi Addiction & Wellness can direct you to the resources you need for a cocaine addiction, including interventions, cocaine detox, outpatient or residential treatment. If you are concerned about the signs of cocaine addiction in yourself or someone you care about, we can help. Please reach out to our team today for cocaine-specific guidance at (877) 328-1968.

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Can You Overdose on Cocaine

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can you overdose on cocaine

Most people think of cocaine as a fun party drug for enhancing a social experience. But can you overdose on cocaine? Read on.

Cocaine has always been an illicit drug with a high-risk profile. Over the years, many famous people have lost their lives due to a cocaine overdose. Today, though, the risks of a fatal event are that much higher. This is because cocaine often is not just cocaine anymore. These days, the cocaine you ingest could contain the deadly fentanyl.

About Cocaine

Cocaine is derived from the coca plant found in South America. It is a white, powdery substance that stimulates, or speeds up, the central nervous system. People still flock to cocaine to enjoy this boost of energy and be able to get by on few hours of sleep. Mostly, though, cocaine enhances confidence and mood, which is the main draw.

Cocaine is taken by snorting the powder, smoking the cocaine (crack), or by injecting a liquefied version of the drug. When coke is ingested, it quickly crosses into the bloodstream. The brain’s reward system records the dopamine rush as a pleasant effect that should be repeated. The reward response solidifies the connection between cocaine and pleasure. This is the setup for an addiction to taking root.

Cocaine Effects

Cocaine may at first seem like a harmless “natural” drug, but it can have some serious side effects that go along with the desired effects. Consider the short and long-term effects of cocaine use.

Short-term effects of cocaine use include:

  • High energy.
  • Euphoria
  • Manic mood.
  • Less sleep needed.
  • Sharper thinking.
  • Feeling invincible.
  • Rapid heart rate.
  • Nosebleeds
  • Aggression
  • Hallucinations
  • Exhaustion
  • Cravings
  • Paranoia

Long-term effects of cocaine abuse include:

  • Enlarged heart.
  • Destruction of nasal tissue.
  • Heart attacks.
  • Heart arrhythmia
  • Vascular damage.
  • Kidney damage.
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Insomnia

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

The cocaine high is fairly short-lived, lasting only about an hour. This may prompt someone to engage in repeat dosing. The way the brain’s reward system works, the more cocaine that is ingested, the more cocaine is desired.

As cocaine use continues over a period of time, tolerance to its effects increases. It begins to take more and more of the drug to get high. At some point, withdrawal symptoms emerge after the cocaine high wears off. That is a sign of dependency.

Cocaine addiction can happen quickly. Signs of cocaine abuse or addiction include:

  • Physical symptoms. Frequent nosebleeds, damage to nasal cartilage, extreme weight loss, muscle tics, severe fatigue, constant runny nose, and insomnia.
  • Mood swings. As cocaine alters neural pathways, the person becomes emotionally unstable. They may have mood swings and become hostile, agitated, and irritable.
  • Work performance suffers.  A coke addiction can result in someone missing work often. They may lack focus and motivation, and that results in poor performance.
  • Financial ruin. Cocaine is a pricey drug and can quickly cause serious money problems. To keep using coke, people will max out their credit cards, skip paying bills and deplete their savings.

Can You Overdose on Cocaine?

The risk for a cocaine overdose has always been fairly high due to uneven levels of the cocaine purity. Not knowing how pure the drug was could cause someone to ingest more than their system could handle.

Cocaine overdose can cause serious damage to vital organs, such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. If a toxic level of coke is consumed, the person must receive medical treatment as soon as possible. Left untreated, cocaine poisoning can result in a heart attack or stroke, which might be fatal.

Cocaine overdose symptoms include:

  • Intense headache.
  • Extreme sense of dehydration.
  • Feeling very hot.
  • Rapid heart rate.
  • Paranoia
  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions

Now, though, fentanyl poses the greatest risk to people who use cocaine. When fentanyl is involved in the overdose, the symptoms are more like an opioid overdose. The respiratory system will fail in a very short period of time if Narcan is not provided right away.

Cocaine Detox and Withdrawal

The path to reclaiming health and wellness begins with cocaine detox and withdrawal. This is when the person decides to quit cocaine and allows the body to slowly adjust as it clears the drug.

Withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Chills
  • Restlessness
  • Sleep problems.
  • Increased appetite.
  • Nightmares
  • Agitation
  • Exhaustion
  • Headaches
  • Slowed thinking.
  • Muscle aches.
  • Cravings
  • Paranoid thoughts.
  • Hallucinations
  • Suicidal thoughts.

Cocaine Addiction Recovery

Enrolling in a treatment program right after completing detox offers the best chance for success. Licensed therapists provide various types of interventions to help you make changes to your habits and thought patterns. They also address any mental health disorder that might also be present. If a co-occurring mental health issue is present, it would be treated at the same time as the cocaine addiction.

Therapies that treat cocaine addiction include:

Contingency Management. CM shapes new behaviors through the use of a rewards system. The rewards may be points earned, gifts, privileges, or vouchers, for abstaining from cocaine. Over time, this method reshapes your behavior choices.

CBT. CBT teaches you how to respond in a healthy manner to triggers like cocaine cravings or other triggers to use. The CBT therapist helps you recognize your triggers and then how you react to them. By shifting the thought patterns that may have led to cocaine use, you change your behaviors.

Holistic methods. Holistic health involves the mind, body, and spirit. In treatment, you will be counseled to improve wellness by eating a healthy diet, getting exercise, and managing stress.

If you wondered if you can overdose on cocaine, you now know that indeed you can and that the outcome could prove fatal. If you have a cocaine problem, reach out for help now.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness Trusted Provider for Alcoholism Recovery

Bodhi Addiction Treatment offers the support and expertise to guide you toward renewed health and wellness. If you are seeing the physical complications of alcohol, it is time to get the help you deserve. Call us today at (877) 328-1968.

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Why Do People Binge Drink Alone?

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binge drinking alone

Binge drinking is often linked with college parties and socializing in general. So, what does it mean when someone engages in binge drinking alone?

Most of us have either participated or witnessed binge drinking in real time. Drinking games or heavy partying can cause someone to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol in a short time. This increases the risk of alcohol poisoning, which can even be fatal.

But what about the people who binge drink in the privacy of their homes? It is hard to understand why anyone would drink alone. Even more so, why would they drink large amounts while alone by themselves? Let’s explore this practice, and discuss the risks.

What Is Binge Drinking?

Binge drinking refers to the practice of consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short time span. For women, this means consuming four or more alcoholic beverages within two hours, and for men, it entails consuming five or more alcoholic beverages. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines an alcoholic beverage as:

  • One 1.5-ounce shot of 40% alcohol spirits
  • One 5-ounce glass of wine
  • One 12-ounce bottle of beer

Someone who consumes more alcohol in a two-hour period than his or her body can safely metabolize is at a greater risk of experiencing alcohol poisoning. In addition, habitual binge drinking can result in an alcohol use disorder with serious long-term consequences.

CDC statistics about binge drinking include:

  • One in six U.S. adults binge drinks about four times a month and consumes about eight drinks per binge session.
  • Binge drinking is more common among those with household incomes of $75,000 or more, versus those with lower incomes.
  • It is assumed that binge drinking is more common among young adults aged 18–34 years. However, binge drinkers over age 65 report binge drinking more often, about five to six times a month on average.
  • About 92% of U.S. adults who drink excessively report binge drinking in the past thirty days.
  • Although college students commonly binge drink, most binge drinking episodes involve adults older than age twenty-six.
  • The prevalence of binge drinking among men is twice the prevalence of women.

Why is Binge Drinking Harmful?

Binge drinking can result in alcohol poisoning, which is a health emergency that can lead to coma or death. Also, those who binge drink may be at a higher risk of developing alcohol dependence later.

The human body can only process a certain amount of alcohol per hour. The liver metabolizes about one ounce of liquor per hour. When an excess amount of alcohol is consumed, it results in the non-metabolized alcohol accumulating in the blood.

When the system becomes overwhelmed by too much alcohol, it causes poisoning in the body. The signs of a person having alcohol poisoning include:

  • Has a low body temperature.
  • Fades in and out of consciousness.
  • Becomes unresponsive.
  • Skin becomes cold, clammy, and blue-tinged.
  • Mental confusion or stupor.
  • Breathing slows.
  • Vomits while passed out.
  • Has seizures, spasms, or convulsions.
  • Falls into a coma.

drinking alone

Why Would Someone Binge Drink Alone?

Drinking alone has always had a negative stigma attached. After all, alcohol is considered a social tool that helps people relax and enjoy each other. With this in mind, why would someone binge drink alone? Some of the reasons include:

  1. They can hide their drinking problem from others. Someone struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD) may prefer to remain discreet about the problem. By drinking alone, there are no witnesses.
  2. They may suffer from depression. A person battling depression may withdraw socially as they lose interest in things they once enjoyed doing. Alcohol can become a maladaptive coping tool. They drink alone in hopes of escaping the symptoms of depression.
  3. They use alcohol to help induce sleep. People who suffer from insomnia might binge drink alone in an attempt to get to sleep. This is not only unhealthy but only worsens the sleep problem. The high sugar content in alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle.

There is no good reason why someone should engage in binge drinking alone at home. The practice is very unsafe, as alcohol poisoning or an accident could occur. No one would be there to call for help.

The Dangers of Binge Drinking Alone

An occasional glass of wine while relaxing at home alone is not a danger. However, habitual drinking, especially when to excess, can carry many risks:

  • Increased risk of alcohol poisoning. Drinking alone with no one around may not start out as binge drinking, but it could end up that way. It is not safe when no one is there to pace the drinking or be a safeguard against excessive drinking. Consuming too much alcohol in a short period can result in alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal.
  • Increased risk of blackouts. Binge drinking, whether alone or with others, can result in a memory blackout. This is when you wake up the next day and have no memory of what you did the night before.
  • Increased risk of accidental injury. Being all alone while drinking a large amount of alcohol can be dangerous. You can fall, start a fire, or injure yourself while intoxicated, and would not have anyone present to help you.
  • Increased risk of suicide. For someone who is battling depression, drinking alone can increase the risk of suicide. As a depressant, alcohol can make depression symptoms feel more pronounced, including thoughts of suicide.

Getting Help for Alcohol Use Disorder

Habitual binge drinking is considered an AUD because the drinking behavior may result in adverse consequences. To overcome AUD, you can enroll in a comprehensive treatment program that is based on an evidence-based approach. Treatment will provide the help needed to make the changes needed to sustain sobriety.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness offers hope for those struggling with AUD. If you find yourself binge drinking alone, you will need support to overcome the AUD. Our program uses the perfect blend of evidence-based therapies and holistic methods to achieve successful results. Call our team today at (877) 328-1968.

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Warning Signs of Cocaine Relapse

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cocaine relapse

If you are in recovery from cocaine addiction, it is important to know the warning signs of cocaine relapse.

Understanding Cocaine

People mistakenly think that because cocaine is a natural plant-based substance that it is not harmful in the way that synthetic drugs are. This is wholly untrue. Although cocaine is derived from the coca plant, it is an extremely potent stimulant.

The euphoric high wanes quickly, so users tend to binge cocaine. This sets them up for acquiring an addiction, as cocaine basically takes over the dopamine production in the brain. Once you are addicted to cocaine, it is a difficult substance use disorder to beat, although very possible. However, cocaine relapse is quite common in the recovery community.

Signs of cocaine abuse and addiction include:

  • Weight loss.
  • Constant runny nose.
  • Hoarse voice.
  • Nosebleeds.
  • Paranoid thinking.
  • Shaking
  • Agitation
  • Getting little sleep.

What Causes a Cocaine Relapse?

A cocaine relapse is a common event and by all means, does not mean the end of your recovery goals. Relapse is simply an interruption in a period of sustained sobriety or abstinence. At least 40%-60% of people in early recovery will indeed experience a relapse.

Because you are dealing with the disease of addiction, it is not easy to override the often unpredictable features of cocaine addiction. Some of the reasons why someone might relapse back to cocaine use include:

  • You reconnect with drug users. If you put yourself in the presence of cocaine users, it will become next to impossible to resist joining in.
  • You are under stress. When you are stressed out it increases cocaine cravings. This is due to a problem processing stress, which can lead to an OCD-type response.
  • Being over-confident. After a month or two of sobriety, it may be tempting to believe you have the cocaine addiction under control. When this happens you become lax with your recovery efforts and start skipping meetings.
  • Glamorizing your past cocaine use. After a period of abstinence, you may become bored with your new sober lifestyle and start to romanticize your former cocaine party days.

Signs of an Upcoming Cocaine Relapse

A cocaine relapse doesn’t just happen out of thin air. It may come on slowly over a period of weeks. Some triggers might involve relationship problems, loneliness, boredom, or a significant loss.

Some of the overt signs of an impending relapse might include:

  • You revert back to former unhealthy habits.
  • You stop talking with your sponsor.
  • You hang out with the old crowd.
  • You are under a great deal of stress.
  • You withdraw socially.

6 Signs a Loved One has Relapsed

If you have a loved one in recovery and notice these signs, it could be that they have returned to cocaine use:

  1. Increased moodiness. Cocaine can cause mood swings. These can change from a euphoric high to depressive behaviors.
  2. Not sleeping much. Cocaine stimulates the central nervous system, which can rev up all the nerve activity and make it hard to sleep.
  3. Increased agitation. If someone who relapsed is binging cocaine, their behavior will be erratic and they will appear agitated.
  4. Anxiety symptoms. Someone who has relapsed will often display signs of anxiety, such as being nervous, shaky, and irritable.
  5. Missing work. If the person has been binging cocaine, they may crash and be unable to make it to work.
  6. Changes in daily routine. A telltale sign of relapse is when someone who has established healthy routines suddenly regresses. They may stop working out, might keep an erratic schedule, and may stop caring about a healthy diet.

How to Recover from a Cocaine Relapse

So, how do you recover from a relapse? The very first thing to do after relapsing is to recognize that sobriety is your only real option. Assuming you want a full and productive life, you must reengage in recovery efforts.

Feelings of shame and guilt often follow a relapse. Do not get stuck in those negative emotions. Learn from the relapse experience, and even do a self-assessment about what triggered it. This can help you fine-tune your new relapse prevention plan.

Don’t beat yourself up if you have relapsed. Relapse is very common in the first six months of recovery. It takes time to practice recovery skills and coping techniques. Relapse happens.

In fact, if you have relapsed you can learn something useful from the experience. You can emerge from this episode stronger than ever. You just need to double down on recovery efforts.

Your loved ones want to see you succeed in recovery. Seek their support and humbly do whatever it takes to reclaim your sobriety as quickly as possible.

Here are some tips to help you get back on your feet:

  • Get in touch with your sponsor and talk it through with them. They have been there.
  • Get to a meeting. In fact, go daily for at least two weeks.
  • Meet with your therapist. Discuss the emotions that may have been present when the relapse happened.
  • Return to the healthy routine you had established in recovery.
  • Immerse yourself in your sober friendships and sober activities. Staying active and busy is key.

Do You Need to Revisit Addiction Treatment?

In some cases, you may benefit from a refresher course at rehab. This can be either outpatient or inpatient, depending on how fragile your recovery is after the relapse. Rehab can help you shore up your recovery and become motivated again.

Being aware of the telltale signs of cocaine relapse can help you take action right away to thwart the relapse. Get the support you need to remain free of this dangerous drug. Reach out today.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness Treats the Whole Person

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness is a holistically-focused drug and alcohol recovery center. Our expert team blends evidence-based therapies with holistic methods. If you have recently experienced a cocaine relapse and feel you need some structured support, please give our team a call at (877) 328-1968.

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