How to Stay Motivated During Drug Rehab

Ups and Downs of Recovery

Entering drug rehab is one of the most important steps a person can take in the process of becoming clean and leading a drug-free life. But even after entering the right treatment program and experiencing success, some people may find themselves losing motivation from time to time. There can be numerous reasons behind these dips in motivation, including:

• Lack of coping mechanisms
• Discouragement from peers or loved ones
• General disillusionment 

People who are going through drug rehab can use the following strategies to help them get through any challenging periods and remain motivated over the course of treatment.

Understand that Recovery Is a Process

One of the major reasons for discouragement during treatment has to do with how people think about recovering from an addiction. It can be easy to imagine that recovery comes to an abrupt end and results in a person being completely cured of addiction. Although this is a common way of thinking, the fact is that recovery is not a single event, but rather a process - often one that can last for a lifetime.

Recovering drug abusers should continually remind themselves that drug addiction is a ongoing and will continue after treatment ends. Changing this mindset and focusing on small achievements along the way can significantly increase a former drug abuser’s motivation.

Spend Time with Motivated People in Recovery

One of the benefits of going through rehab is that recovering individuals are exposed to a community of people who have the same goals of overcoming their addictions and leading healthier lifestyles. This can be especially vital when a person experiences a motivational low point.

Instead of trying to fight the lack of motivation in solitude, recovering drug abusers should instead seek out support and guidance from people who have experienced similar feelings and who are doing well. Many treatment centers offer group activities that can facilitate meaningful connections between people in recovery.

People who are struggling with motivation can even seek out relationships with former drug abusers outside of their facility. With an estimated 10% of people in the U.S. being in recovery from substance abuse, there are numerous individuals with the same goals and experiences who may be able to listen, relate and provide encouragement.

Connect with Loved Ones

One of the most common motivations for recovery is the well-being of a former abuser’s loved ones, including spouses, children and close friends. These important people can continue to be sources of inspiration during the recovery process.

There is a misconception that drug addiction recovery programs require separation from a person’s friends and family members for extended periods of time. However, many treatment options are actually outpatient centers, meaning that participants attend treatment during the day and come home each evening.

Some inpatient treatment centers also help recovering drug abusers remain connected to their loved ones by inviting family members to visit and participate in counseling sessions. This contact can remind individuals of their original reasons for quitting and boost their motivation.

Keep a Journal

When people have been in treatment for a while, it’s often difficult for them to accurately assess their progress. As a result, they may become discouraged and believe that their treatment has stagnated even if it hasn’t.

One way that former drug abusers can accurately track their progress is by keeping a journal throughout their treatment. While the journal can take any form that a person wants, it’s helpful for recovering abusers to record their feelings and experiences on a regular basis.

Often the mere task of writing these reflections down will help solidify many of the lessons learned in treatment and keep motivation high. Furthermore, whenever participants experience a lull in motivation, they can re-read their journals and draw strength from the visible progress they’ve made.

Draw from a Numerous Sources of Support

While losing motivation can make recovery difficult, it’s important for individuals to realize that ups and downs are completely normal aspects of the recovery process. Fortunately, there are many people who can help former drug abusers continue on the path to success, including drug rehab treatment professionals, loved ones and other individuals in recovery.

What Is Mephedrone?

Mephedrone is a synthetic psychoactive stimulant drug in the amphetamine and cathinone classes. It goes by several names, including meow meow, bubbles, 4-methylmethcathinone (4-MMC), drone, MCAT, meth cathinone and 4-methylephedrone. Unlike methamphetamine, mephedrone is considered an enactogen, a substance that causes social and emotional effects similar to those experienced with Ecstasy (MDMA).

The drug is mainly seen in the UK, and is the fourth most popular substance behind cannabis, cocaine, and MDMA. Common methods of use include injection, insufflation (snorting) and capsules or tablets. The most popular method of delivery is insufflation, while injection is the least popular.

Mephedrone's Effects

The effects of the drug make it of particular interest on the nightlife and party scenes, more so than other amphetamines. People who take mephedrone report effects like: Increased alertness Euphoria Enhanced energy levels, often to the point of restlessness Bolstered libido Feeling more open, talkative and socially outgoing Improved confidence

However, like all illicit stimulant drugs in the amphetamine class, mephedrone can produce unpleasant or harmful side effects, particularly in large doses. These include:

• Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
• Excessive sweating
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Vasoconstriction, causing coldness in the extremities
• Increased blood pressure
• Delusions of grandeur
• In severe cases, hallucinations Paranoia Bruxism (teeth grinding) Tremors Anxiety and panic attacks

Mephedrone Myths

Like most illegal drugs, there have been several urban myths surrounding mephedrone. In the UK, media outlets commonly referred to the drug as "plant food,” claiming that it was commonly sold as a fertilizer because it could not be legally marketed for human consumption. However, the drug is not appropriate as a plant food and has never been used as such.

In 2009, it was reported in The Sun, a British tabloid publication, that a young man had torn off his own testicles while under the influence of mephedrone. Later on, it became known that the story was an online hoax. Police reports about the supposed incident included a note that the details were unreliable at best. Nonetheless, the tabloid picked up on the story and ran with it.

Yet, another myth involved a fictitious media report that mephedrone had been causing a rash of deaths among young people after snorting even small doses of the drug. This caused mephedrone to be classified as a Class B substance under UK drug law. However, as the media outrage dwindled, it became known that mephedrone use was the actual cause of death in very few of the reported cases.

Long-Term Health Effects

Because mephedrone is structurally similar to amphetamines, it can be assumed to carry the same potential for long-term harm. This can include:

• Addiction
• Psychosis
• Anxiety and depression
• Addiction
• Impaired memory and cognitive function
• Excessively low body weight due to appetite suppression
• A drawn, haggard appearance
• Behavioral problems including violence, impulsivity, and recklessness
• Heart problems
• Infections associated with IV drug use, such as hepatitis

Currently, little is known about mephedrone's actual long-term effects on health and functioning. Because the substance is relatively new, few comprehensive studies have been performed, although it's safe to consider the drug potentially hazardous to health. Legal Issues

In the UK, where mephedrone use is the most widespread, it has been categorized under Class B of the UK Misuse of Drugs Act. This classification falls between Class A, which includes substances with the greatest harm potential, and Class C, which contains those with the least potential for harm. Possession in the UK carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and an unlimited fine. Sale carries a 14-year max sentence, as well as an unlimited fine.

In the US, mephedrone is placed under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This classification means that the drug has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical value. Trafficking and production of all Schedule I substances in any quantity is a felony offense carrying a maximum sentence of life in prison. Possession of any amount is also a felony and carries a maximum punishment of seven years imprisonment. It should be noted that the penalties may vary by state, and may also include fines.

The Dangers of Mixing Ecstasy and Alcohol

Mixing the popular club drug ecstasy with alcohol can cause serious adverse reactions in users, including brain damage, organ failure and death.

Alcohol

In small to moderate doses, alcohol alone can be enjoyed safely by recreational users who are not predisposed to addiction. A sense of euphoria, confidence and reduced inhibitions are the effects that many people find most desirable about alcohol.

Long-term abuse of alcohol and frequent bouts of heavy drinking can have many negative effects on the user including:

• Liver damage
• Sleep disorder
• Mood Changes
• Death

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that there were nearly 26,000 alcohol-induced deaths in 2010, excluding accidents and homicides. These staggering numbers suggest that alcohol use alone can have disastrous consequences.

Ecstasy

Infrequent, recreational use of ecstasy by itself has a stimulant effect on the user and can enhance mood, reduce sensitivity to pain and create a sense of euphoria. The drug is widely used in dance clubs and raves as a means to enhance the positive social and musical experience.

Frequent abuse of ecstasy and ingestion of tainted ecstasy can cause severe consequences in users including:

• Mood disturbances
• Seizures
• Dehydration
• Death

The Substance Abuse and Mental HealthServices Administration (SAMHSA) reported that there were over 2,000 ecstasy-related emergency room visits in the second half of 2003 in the United States. Since then, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has indicated that there has been a steady increase in ecstasy use in the U.S., partly as a result of new versions of the drug marketed to club and party-goers.

Ecstasy and Alcohol Overdose

Using ecstasy and alcohol simultaneously can be a deadly combination. Alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant and negatively impacts every organ in the human body when consumed in large quantities. Alcohol overdose can occur when a user consumes more alcohol than the body can metabolize in a given period of time. Alcohol overdose can result in:

• Coma
• Brain Damage
• Death

The nature of ecstasy is such that users may not perceive how intoxicated they are or may underestimate the effect that alcohol is having on their body. When under the influence of ecstasy the risk of overdosing on alcohol is elevated. The relatively short-term stimulant effect of ecstasy can temporarily counteract the depressant characteristics of alcohol. This can result in a rapid drop in blood pressure, heart rate and respiration when the stimulant effect of ecstasy wears off. This can cause loss of consciousness, coma or death.

Severe Dehydration

Ecstasy increases body temperature and rate of perspiration in users. Because physical activity such as dancing usually accompanies ecstasy use, dehydration can occur due to excessive sweating. An elevated body temperature increases the need for water intake, which is often limited when using ecstasy.

Alcohol has a noticeable diuretic effect that causes users to sweat and urinate frequently. The alcoholic impact on hydration levels alone are enough to cause dehydration. Alcohol also causes a disruption in the regulation of body temperature. This can result in fluctuations in body temperature during and after a drinking session.

Alcohol enhances the level of perspiration experienced during ecstasy use and increases the likelihood of severe dehydration and hyperthermia resulting from a disruption in regulation of body temperature. These impacts of severe dehydration and hyperthermia caused by mixing ecstasy and alcohol include:

• Stroke
• Organ Failure
• Coma
• Death

Severe Mood Disturbances and Suicide

Both ecstasy and alcohol abuse can have adverse effects on brain chemistry which can result in mood disturbances, depression and suicidal thoughts and actions. Mixing ecstasy and alcohol can have such a profound impact on the regulation of neurotransmitters that users may experience severe mood swings and frequent bouts of depression and anxiety, which can ultimately lead to suicidal ideation.

Prevention of Health Consequences

The only way to completely prevent the consequences associated with mixing ecstasy and alcohol is total abstinence from both drugs. This can be especially difficult for users who have developed a psychological or physical dependence. Often the best course of action for those who wish to prevent the health consequences associated with ecstasy and alcohol use is inpatient drug treatment.

Inpatient drug treatment can help users safely detox in a drug and alcohol-free environment. With the appropriate guidance and support that can be provided during inpatient treatment, users can commit to sobriety and gain the tools needed to live a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

Graduations at A Forever Recovery

Graduation ceremonies at A Forever Recovery are held every Friday. Graduates are able to tell their personal stories of their addiction struggles, talk about their experiences, and give thanks to those who helped them through recovery. Our latest graduation ceremony was filled with powerful and emotional testimonies.

How Long Does Drug Addiction Recovery Typically Take?

The length of time that it takes to graduate from a drug addiction recovery program depends on the type of program that a person enters into. In addition, the length of the program depends on the involvement of the person as well as the resources that are available. Sometimes, substance abusers will go through assessments and detox programs before actually entering into a treatment program. When going through these things, this will of course add onto the time that it takes to complete the rehab program.

 

Detox Programs

Some people consider detox programs to be rehab programs in and of their selves. The average detox program takes anywhere from three to 15 days to complete. Most times, detox programs are carried out under the supervision of a medical professional. The purpose behind these programs is to make sure a substance abuser withdrawals from his or her choice of drugs without enduring severe medical complications. In the event that critical complications do arise, the person is usually then transported to a hospital to finish detoxing. The two worst drugs to detox off of include alcohol and opiates. Oftentimes, people will endure painful withdrawal symptoms, including seizures depending on the severity of their prior usage.

 

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs come in many forms. Some of them last for seven days. Some of them last for three or more years. Outpatient programs are very advantageous for those people who have successfully finished a short-term or long-term rehab program.

 

Short-Term Rehab Programs

After detoxing, a person will then enter into a drug rehab program. A short-term program tends to last anywhere from 30 to 90 days. During the program, a person will live in a structured environment. The living facility may possibly be a half-way house, a medical facility or in living quarters that the rehab program makes available for the person. Most times, short-term rehab programs have anywhere from 15 to 50 attendees at any given time. Not every one has to begin the program at the same time, meaning new people can enter into the program at any time while others will be graduating. There is much to learn during a short-term rehab program, and being that the program only lasts one to three months, it is imperative that a substance abuser be willing to learn everything he or she can.

 

Long-Term Rehab Programs

Another type of rehab program that can be attended is a long-term program. Generally, a long-term program will last six months or longer. Many long-term rehabs come in the form of half-way houses. These types of facilities provide attendees with much needed education relating to addictions and overcoming them, but they also allow the attendees to work and go to school while finishing their rehab programs. They also provide a structured environment for the attendees to live in; however, there are many rules and restrictions that have to be adhered by. Breaking any rules can result in a person being kicked out of the program. Long-term programs are very advantageous for those people who have been suffering from an addiction for an extended amount of time. META: Most times, short-term rehab programs have anywhere from 15 to 50 attendees at any given time. There is much to learn during a short-term rehab program.***152 CHARS***

Can You Ever Fully Recover From Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction is considered a treatable disease. With the advanced discoveries regarding the science of addiction, innovations in drug addiction treatment have been successfully formulated to aid people to stop the dependence and abuse of drugs and gain back a healthy and productive life. While addiction may also considered as a chronic disease, this can be managed effectively and successfully. With drug addiction treatment, drug addicts can have the power to counteract the powerful and disruptive effects of drug addiction on the brain and behavior. Drug addicts will have the chance to regain and control their lives back.

 

Does A Relapse Mean Failure in the Treatment?

Relapse while on drug addiction treatment can happen. In fact, the relapse rates for drug addiction are actually similar to those other chronic health conditions. The relapse rate for drug addiction is around 40 to 60 percent while hypertension and asthma have 50 to 70 percent relapse rate and diabetes has 30 to 50 percent relapse rate. The treatment of chronic diseases like addiction would involve changing a person’s behaviors. Thus, a relapse would not mean that the treatment has failed. For addicted individuals, the relapses to addiction would only indicate that the treatment needs to be adjusted or reinstated. An alternative treatment may also be required.

 

What Are Effective Addiction Treatment Options Available?

Research actually shows that the combination of treatment medications with cognitive behavioral therapy is considered as the best way to ensure a successful drug addiction recovery for most patients. However, the treatment approaches should be tailored according to the drug abuse pattern and drug related social, and medical problems of the patient.

 

Medications for Treating Drug Addiction

There are different types of medications utilized in treating drug addiction. Basically, the treatment medications can help the addicted person stop abusing drugs, stay in the treatment, and avoid having any relapse.

• Withdrawal Symptoms
• Staying In Treatment
• Relapse Prevention. There are different factors that can trigger a relapse like stress, cues to drug experience, and exposure to drugs.

 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapies as Treatment for Drug Addiction

Cognitive behavioral treatments are also used to help engage addicts in the drug addiction treatment. These treatments help modify the attitudes and behaviors of addicted individuals. Cognitive behavioral treatments will also help these people increase their ability to handle stressful situations and respond to different addiction triggers. In addition to this, such treatments can actually enhance the effectiveness of treatment medications. Some examples of treatments would include the following:

• Motivational Incentives
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Motivational Interviewing
• Group Therapy

 

Looking At the Numbers

According to SAMHSA or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration, 23.5 million people 12 years old and above needed addiction treatment for the illicit drug abuse problem in 2009. Basically, this is 9.3 percent of the total number. Basing from this number, only 11.2 percent or 2.6 million actually received treatment at specialized treatment facilities. Seeking help from drug addiction is considered a personal choice and this is basically a confidential matter. However, not all people succeed in such endeavors. In fact, based on the average number of people who subject themselves to drug addiction treatment, about 42 percent of female admissions and 38 percent of male admissions were successful in recovering. This is according to the study which was published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse.

5 Inspirational Drug Rehab Success Stories

Fighting an addiction is not easy and the first steps to recovery are always the most challenging. Although it is a tough journey, inspirational stories show that it is possible to get through the first steps and move forward in life. The inspirational figures range from well-known celebrities to normal men and women who have faced unexpected challenges in life.

Fighting the Expectations

The members of Aerosmith are among the most recognized figures in the music industry. Steven Tyler, the primary singer and front man of the band, has candidly told his fans and media sources about his own struggles with addiction.

It is not surprising when a rock band or a member of a rock band starts abusing drugs. Since many rock stars abused drugs from the 1960s and 1970s, it was a common expectation. Drugs were readily available to Steven Tyler and he was known to use and abuse substances during his music career.

His inspirational story shows that it is possible to give up substance abuse. His addiction to drugs started when he was very young and continued well into his adult years. It tore apart his family and left him with broken relationships.

Ultimately, he spent time in a rehab program and was able to give up substance abuse. Although he did face an addiction to prescription drugs at a later date, reentering a rehab program allowed him to break the new addiction and join the judge’s panel on American Idol. Steven Tyler has shown that it is possible to give up an addiction and a relapse does not necessarily mean that it is not possible to move forward in the future.

Turning Away From Music to Fight Addiction

Patty Schemel, a rock drummer who is most famous for music with the band Hole, is a role model for any individual who is fighting an addiction. She faced a battle that is similar to many others who are struggling against drugs or alcohol.

Patty Schemel went into a rehab program several times. After her first stint in rehab, she relapsed on drugs and struggles to start over again. She lost interest in music and other hobbies, which helped her recognize that her addiction was a serious problem. Her battle took several tries before she was able to completely give up substance abuse and live a sober lifestyle.

After her last stint in rehab, Patty Schemel has maintained her recovery for five years. Although she has started to take an interest in music again, the rehab that was successful focused solely on her recovery and getting back on her feet.

The Inspiring Mother

Addiction is hard to fight, even when an individual has solid reasons and motivations to keep trying. Inspirational stories related to addiction recovery are not limited to the celebrities. A mother can benefit from rehab as much as a famous individual.

A mother who neglected her child and spouse in favor of supporting a heroin addiction ultimately decided that it was time for her to come clean about her problems. She entered a rehab program and discovered that the treatment professionals could understand the battle she was facing.

She was able to fight against the addiction with the help of a rehab facility. By the time she completed the program, she had broken the habit and was maintaining a lifestyle that focused on healing.

Finding a Strong Program to Pull Through

Beth Hart, a singer and songwriter in the contemporary genre, has an inspiring and uplifting story. Her struggles against addiction started when she was very young. At 13, she was already addicted to drugs.

After entering several rehab programs and relapsing shortly after leaving the program, the young musician started to spin out of control. Her addiction became worse over time and she struggled to give up the substance.

It was after she found a strong and supportive program that Beth Hart was able to make inroads into a real recovery. She focused on her recovery and music in a different country, where the environment was very different. After her time in rehab, she has been able to maintain her recovery for six years.

Stepping Away From the Trash

David E. Lowe is another inspiring and unexpected inspiration for recovery. He was a homeless man who supported his addictions to cocaine, hallucinogens, alcohol and marijuana through any means he could manage.

After years of supporting several drug habits, Lowe entered rehab and was able to break away from his addiction. The supportive environment at the rehab facility allowed him to take control of his own life. He has remained clean of drugs since his time in rehab and has since turned his attention to helping others overcome their own addictions.

Recovering from drug addiction is not easy, but it is possible. Inspiration can come from music, family or even just the desire to give up the drugs. Help from a rehab program can provide the tools that are needed to fight the addiction.