Understanding Substance Use and Recovery Treatment
“Remember that just because you hit bottom doesn’t mean you have to stay there.” Robert Downey Jr.
1st step in Recovery
“Recovery isn’t always easy, but it certainly beats the alternative.” Anonymous
Being substance-free can help you rise above your struggles and challenges. It can help you live a healthier and happier life. It can also help you build stronger relationships with your loved ones and achieve your goals…Yep, I read that in an advertisement too.
Here is the first truth. Your happiness is unique to you, relationships have a life of their own, and sobriety is a day-by-day goal. Achieving sobriety, maintaining sobriety, and continuing to stay substance free are no easy feats. It takes work and support.
The first challenge…Denial is a dangerous game that many people play. The consequences can be devastating. Denying that we have a problem with substance use is like trying to drive a car with a flat tire – it may seem like we’re getting somewhere, but eventually, we’re going to crash.
The thing about denial is that it can be so easy to fall into. The number of people in the United States who are addicted to substances is difficult to determine with complete accuracy, simply because not all cases are reported or treated. Given the cases we know about, the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health 7.3% of the US population had a substance use disorder. Of this population, 14.5 million had an alcohol use disorder, 2.1 million had an opioid use disorder (the prescription kind including), and 1.9 million had cocaine use disorder. Additionally, an estimated 886,000 people had a methamphetamine use disorder. These statistics mean absolutely nothing when addiction owns you. I mean really owns you, to the point that you are thinking about the next opportunity you have to use or anxiety about running out of what you use.
We tell ourselves that we can stop using whenever we want, or that we don’t have a problem because we’re not as bad as some other people we know. But the reality is that substance use can spiral out of control quickly, and before we know it, we’re in deep.
The 2nd truth. Let me introduce you to the universal Off Broadway play of Guilt and Blame. You’ll know when Guilt has you by the cojones (this is a Spanish word) when you start making promises. First to yourself then to someone who loves you. It’s a good one-liner, “This will be the last time.” Blame enters stage left. Blame has a twin named Shame. Blame is the obnoxious one. Blame takes center stage when you get caught using after the promise. Shame just keeps you and your pain backstage under all the props unseen and unheard.
Here’s the deal, y’all: the road to recovery ain’t no Sunday stroll through bluebonnet fields. It’s like a country possum driving on Dallas’ Interstate 635 for the first time, in the dark with one blurry eye open, realizing they need to be three lanes over to get to IH45 but actually on the forced lane that leads only to the U-turn on IH35, and dang-it accidentally got on a toll road with no TxTag and no money in the cup holder. But guess what? Recovery is worth every ride of highs, lows, and unexpected twists and turns. Recovery is absolutely worth the work!
Here’s the 3rd truth. There are ways to overcome addiction. The first step to overcoming substance use is to recognize that denial is a deceptive trap and that all the substances -Yes, all of them are the bait. You are physically addicted, mentally addicted, and spiritually drained. Own it. Say it out loud. Say it out loud to someone who can arrange recovery treatment.
Breaking down the denial can be overwhelming but it’s absolutely necessary. We have to be honest with ourselves about the role that substance use is playing in our lives, and the impact it’s having on our relationships, our work, our health and the very spirit that makes you unique in the world. We don’t have to stay caught in the trap.
By facing addiction head-on, we can start down the path of recovery and reclaim our lives. It takes courage to admit that we have a substance use problem, but it’s a crucial first step towards a life. You will need to be up front open and rigorously honest with yourself and someone else. Remember, addiction is also a medical problem. You will have to treat addiction like you treat any medical illness. Your body will need the care of a medical professional. That voice of denial planted in your brain will need to be challenged. That is the therapist’s job. It might mean leaning on your support system, family, friend, a treatment center, or a recovery group. I can already hear the interruption of addiction. “I am not about that higher power thing.” Accept the help anyway! Do whatever it takes! Be willing to put in all the work. Because at the end of the day, your life is worth fighting for. And that’s the bottom line.
Take that first step, detour denial, and reach out to the support around you and contact me. I want to see your success, but more than that, I want to see you share your life the way you dreamed it.
Let me know when you are ready to start!
Types of Substance Addictions
When Substance Use Becomes a Problem
“You don’t get over an addiction by stopping using. You get over it by getting something better and stronger in its place.” Anonymous
Substance use addiction is a complex condition with varying degrees of severity. The information provided here is intended for educational purposes. The more you know about substance addiction(s), the better equipped you will be to take care of yourself.
We have Texas-sized compassion for you and want to help you if you want it. If you are concerned or questioning yourself about substance addiction, review the criteria of substance use addiction. To be diagnosed with Substance Use Disorder, an individual must meet at least two of the following DAST-10 Questionnaire within a 12-month period.
Here we go. In the last 12 months, have you experienced any 2 of the conditions listed?
- Have you used substance(s) other than those required for medical reasons?
- Do you use more than one substance at a time?
- Are you always able to stop using substances when you want to?
- Have you had “blackouts” or “flashbacks” as a result of substance use?
- Do you ever feel bad or guilty about your substance use?
- Have the people in your life ever complained about your involvement with substance use?
- Have you neglected your family because of your substance use?
- Have you engaged in illegal activities in order to obtain substance(s)?
- Have you ever experienced withdrawal symptoms (felt sick) when you stopped using the substance?
- Have you had medical problems as a result of your substance use (e.g., memory loss, nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, loss of appetite, skin irritations, difficulty sleeping, or digestive issues)?
Alcohol Use
“The only way out is through.” Robert Frost
Alcohol addiction is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on a person’s life, ruining relationships, damaging careers, and even leading to death.
Drawing from personal experience, I’ve witnessed the profound impact of trauma and alcohol firsthand. My father, a veteran who served in the Army during the Vietnam War, developed what was then known as “Shell Shock,” now recognized as post-traumatic stress disorder. Unfortunately, effective treatment for PTSD wasn’t available during that time. Consequently, he turned to alcohol, which led to escalating social drinking and frequent blackouts. Watching him struggle over the years taught me a deep respect for the destructive power of alcohol and trauma.
Eventually, my father’s health deteriorated, culminating in a severe heart attack that served as a turning point in his life. During his hospitalization, he underwent detoxification and open-heart surgery, emerging with newfound sobriety. That had to be brutal. Rather than opting for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), he forged his own spiritual journey by re-exmaning cultural and religious beliefs, and finding solace in nature through activities like fishing, hunting, archery, and volunteering.
His volunteer work, particularly driving wounded veterans to their medical appointments, provided him with unexpected opportunities for support and discussions about recovery. Although he never attended official AA meetings, he formed a close fellowship with many who did, gaining a profound understanding of the principles outlined in the “big book.”
I’m not here to tell you that alcohol is evil. It’s not. Alcohol can be just a social drink. But when you have to pick up a drink to avoid withdrawal, alcohol is no longer a social activity. And I am not saying AA is the only way. There are several Alternative Programs.
If you’re struggling to control your alcohol use, or your loved ones are complaining that your alcohol use is a problem, please know that you’re not alone. We are not talking about the millions of people who are struggling with alcohol addiction. We are talking about you, only you. There is help available. There are several treatment options available that can help you.
I know it’s not easy to admit that you have a problem with alcohol. But it’s the first step on the road to recovery. If the 3 Amigos—Guilt, Blame, or Shame—are trying to talk you out of getting help, contact me. I know how to deal with them. It’s time to begin living.
I’m looking forward to partnering with you in recovery. Here is my email address InfiniftePsychology101@gmail.com
Cannabis Use
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” A.A. Milne
Let’s talk about Cannabis Use for just a moment without any political agenda and absolutely no judgements. The most frequent comment I hear about cannabis is that it has been on the earth forever and it is a natural product. We aren’t talking about the plant or occasional use or medicinal use. We are also not talking about CBD.
Cannabis Use Disorder is a recognized by problematic and compulsive use of cannabis that leads to clinically significant distress or impairment in various areas of life, including mood and physical health.
This is about the addiction to cannabis to the point where an individual can’t shake the habit, no matter how much they want to. It can feel like being caught in a haze of cravings, spending more time with a blunt than with the people you care about, and puffing away despite the consequences stacking up against you. It’s not a comedy routine you’re stuck in – it’s more like missing out on life’s best moments and neglecting what really matters.
If you’re worried about your cannabis use, know that reaching out for therapy is a brave step. And here, judgment has no place – not now, not ever. Email me if you would like to talk. The email address is InfiniftePsychology101@gmail.com
Anxiolytic, Benzodiazepines, Hypnotic, Sedative
“Today I choose recovery. I choose myself.” Anonymous
Anxiolytic, Benzodiazepines, Hypnotic, or Sedative are substances commonly prescribed to manage anxiety, insomnia, or related conditions. These medications have legitimate medical uses and can be beneficial when used as prescribed under proper medical supervision. However, when misused or used without medical supervision, dependency can develop, becoming a serious concern that can quickly turn into a Texas tornado ripping through your life. Misuse or use with alcohol can lead to adverse effects including changes in cognitive abilities, memory problems, mood swings, irritability, nightmares, and personality changes. Basically, it’s a rabbit hole of trouble.
Stopping the medication cold turkey is not a good idea. Withdraw management from anxiolytics, benzodiazepines, hypnotics, and sedative medications involves a mix of strategies. You will need to be under medical supervision to safely rid your body of these substances. Medical professionals may gradually taper off the medications until you are free of the substances.
Combining medical care with therapy is your best bet for addressing underlying anxiety or sleep issues in healthier ways.
There are specific cognitive-behavioral strategies that can help with the underlying reasons you were prescribed the medication in the first place.
I want to acknowledge that what you are experiencing is physically and mentally challenging. It takes strong conviction to take back the control the pills took away. Combining medical care with therapy is your best bet for addressing underlying anxiety or sleep issues in healthier ways.
Send me an email today to begin our first day of living life on life’s terms. We’ll begin by getting to know each other. You don’t need to hear from anyone what you’ve already told yourself. Once we’ve navigated the medical interventions, we’ll move on to the therapeutic process.
Inhalant Use
“Recovery is a beautiful thing. It’s about rediscovering yourself and creating a life you can be proud of.” Anonymous
Inhalant addiction really hits home for me. Being transparent here because inhalant use is a pressing concern affecting our young people. Our youth and young adults, searching for relief or an escape from pain, often turn to substances they can get at home, unaware of the permanent physical and psychological effects, including damage to the brain, liver, and kidneys. Let’s be honest; inhalants can have fatal consequences.
We often think of therapy for the individual who has addiction(s). Addiction affects the family. Parents, as your child, for whatever reason, turns to inhalants, the hope is always that they will accept a recovery option. Logically, we know that relapse is a part of the recovery process, for parents, it can be devastating, especially when you are fully aware of the dangers waiting for your child if they refuse recovery. It’s an emotional, heart-stopping journey. Remember that seeking support for yourself is equally important.
Are you saying “If only” to yourself. If you haven’t sold your home and moved to another city or to the country, you thought of it. You would do anything to put distance between your child and their peer group that are the bad influence. Then one day you realize, your child is the influencer. What do you do now? What do you do with the cascade of emotions, from worry and guilt, to hope and uncertainty.
Your feelings and thoughts are adult emotions and thoughts. Your anger is real. You need an appropriate place to say what you need to say. Anger and verbal confrontation never motivated anyone into recovery. It won’t work with your child either. You can not bottle the eneviable explosion. This is where therapy shows it’s value. By seeking support for yourself and taking care of your own well-being will not only strengthen you but also enable you to better support your child’s recovery.
You can navigate this challenging path and I am here for you. Reach out by emailing me at InfiniftePsychology101@gmail.com
Opioid Use
“I am not my addiction. I am a person in recovery.” Anonymous
Opioids encompass prescription painkillers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and heroin. It’s unlikely that anyone wakes up thinking, ‘I want to be addicted.’ While emotional and psychological pain can contribute, let’s not overlook physical pain as a significant factor, especially chronic pain.
Opioid Use Disorder involves the misuse of prescription opioids and heroin. Whether it’s prescribed or obtained illegally, opioids lead to physical dependence. People with chronic pain also need accountability, which involves both the prescriber’s responsibilities and personal lifestyle choices to manage pain effectively.
Recognizing when medication crosses the line to addiction can be frightening, especially the fear of losing access to prescribed medication. Ultimately, the decision on pain management lies between the individual and their doctor.
Seeking help from pain management specialists and therapists is crucial. It’s important to understand that addiction isn’t a moral failing, but rather a complex interaction with powerful chemicals. Breaking the cycle of suffering in silence is essential.
Therapy plays a vital role in fostering accountability. When you find yourself questioning your medication usage or experiencing red flags like running out of medication early, it’s time to seek support. Beginning with a conversation with your prescriber and engaging in therapy can be the first steps toward recovery and accountability.
At TexasCounselor.Net you find the nonjudgmental support you are looking for.
Recovery, Let’s do this together.
Stimulant Use
“Recovery is like a beautiful mosaic – many pieces coming together to form a whole picture.” Anonymous
Stimulants are energizing powerhouses that rev up your system and get your heart racing, but not is a good way. In the list of stimulants are caffeine, cocaine, amphetamines, and nicotine. Gold Standard treatment for Stimulant Use Disorder typically involves a combination of behavioral therapies and sometimes medication to address withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring mental health condition.
Stimulant use often begins with a reduction in certain biochemicals, triggering obsessive thoughts, which in turn lead to compulsive behaviors aimed at reducing the biochemical need. If you try to explain this to, let’s say, someone who does not smoke, they may not really get it. So let’s use a different example. Your body unconsciously triggers hunger pains, instinctively you look in the fridge, and then you put food in your mouth, and the hunger pains are gone.
Addiction to any substance is not a character flaw. It’s a complex issue that requires understanding and support. To be that support we need to break the stigma surrounding substance use. Life goes awry when a one-time or short-term use of stimulants initiates a cycle of intense cravings and compulsive long-term use. The chase for that rush, that burst of energy and euphoria, comes at a high cost. Relationships crumble, jobs are lost, and even with continuous use, both physical and mental health take a beating.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Stimulant Use, don’t face it alone. All mental health and recovery research support it takes a recovery team. There are Gold Standards for treatment that guide the recovery process. Living substance free is doable and embarking on a path of recovery is realistic. Believe in yourself, because you are stronger than you think. If you need a reminder or someone that always has your back, send me an email. We can start today. My contact email is InfiniftePsychology101@gmail.com
With each day substance free, you rewrite today.
If you think you or a loved one is experiencing Substance Use or Addicition, reach out to out Infinite Psychology at our Houston Texas based locations, at InfiniftePsychology101@gmail.com
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