What is the Impact of Depression on Physical Health?

What is the Impact of Depression on Physical Health?

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in the world and is a leading cause of disability, affecting over 280 million people around the world – a number that represents 3.8% of the world population. In fact, 5% of adults and 5.7% of those over 60 years old have depression.

Once diagnosed with depression, time is of the essence, and treatment may be a necessity. Any case of undetected, undiagnosed, or untreated depression can further harm and damage a patient’s ability to live a quality life – not just mentally but emotionally, spiritually, socially, and physically. 

Not only that, but there are a variety of different types of depression, and each individual will have a unique experience – meaning treatment must be customized, personalized, tailored, and human-based. At Thrive Treatment, that’s what we strive for with each and every patient. 

What are the Signs of Depression?

We all have moments when we feel a little down on ourselves, and we all go through periods of sadness in our life. While there’s nothing out of the ordinary about that, some people experience much more severe, persistent, and chronic episodes of intense sadness or loss of interest. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most common signs and symptoms of depression:

  • Depressed mood all day, everyday
  • Complete loss of interest and pleasure in everyday activities, even those the patient once enjoyed
  • Unexplained weight changes or changes in eating habits
  • Slowing down of thought and slower physical movements
  • Excessive fatigue or extreme lack of energy
  • Feeling extremely guilty or worthlessness throughout the day
  • Inability to think or concentrate, and loss of decisiveness
  • Recurrent thoughts of suicide, death, and/or self-harm

In order to be diagnosed with depression, patients must be experiencing at least five of those symptoms, and the symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. The symptoms must also have a negative impact on the patient’s ability to live a normal, healthy, and happy life. 

How Does Depression Impact the Brain?

Depression symptoms impact the way an individual thinks, acts, and behaves, but is there a physical impact of depression on the brain? The answer is yes, and it largely boils down to the production (or lack of production) of neurotransmitters – the chemical messengers of the brain. 

The three major neurotransmitters often associated with depression symptoms include dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine – through glutamate and GABA are also considered. Any increase or decrease in the production of these neurotransmitters can cause symptoms. 

During a depressive episode, nerve cell communication is broken, and the brain isn’t receiving proper signals from the body. While a depressed brain looks much different from a healthy brain, a depressed brain can revert back to a healthy brain if properly diagnosed and treated. 

What is the Impact of Depression on Physical Health?

Many people are well-aware of the mental and emotional depression effects has on the body, but most people don’t consider the physical impact of depression and the physical effects that depressed patients experience on a daily basis. Treating these symptoms can be life-changing for some.

Let’s take a look at the impact of depression on physical health:

  • Headaches, insomnia, fatigue
  • Chronic pain, sometimes unexplained
  • Increased risk of heart disease
  • Weight loss or weight gain
  • Nausea, diarrhea, and constipation
  • Inflammation throughout the body
  • Self-harm and increased risk of suicide

When depressed moods and a lack of interest start to have a negative impact on your ability to live a quality life, it’s time to start seeking treatment immediately. Your symptoms will likely grow worse if not treated and monitored by a mental health professional – so don’t wait to seek help!

How to Find Depression Treatment Center

Millions of people in the United States are diagnosed with depression, and there are millions more living with depression (though they might not know it or haven’t been diagnosed yet). It’s one of the most common mental disorders in the world and deserves our full medical attention.

At Thrive Treatment, we understand how important treatment is when overcoming depression. Whether you’re having a hard time coping with the mental, emotional, social, or physical impact of depression, or your depression is accompanied by an addiction, Thrive Treatment can help in Southern California mental health treatment. 
Feel free to contact us today to learn more about our Santa Barbara treatment facility and what it can do for those struggling with depression. We can’t wait to bring out the best in both you and your family.

What are the Different Types of Anxiety Disorders?

What are the Different Types of Anxiety Disorders?

We all experience anxiety from time to time. It might come before a job interview, a big speech, on your way to the principal’s office, or during your college graduation ceremony. For the most part, this type of anxiety is temporary, and you’ll learn to cope with it as you mature in life. 

Anxiety is nothing more than the body’s response to stress. When faced with a stressful or high-pressure situation, the body and brain coordinate to make us feel anxious – alert, focused, etc. While that’s helpful in some situations, excessive anxiety levels can grow troublesome. 

Over 40 million Americans above the age of 18 suffer from an anxiety disorder, accounting for over 18% of that population. Despite being the most common mental illness and being highly treatable in most cases, only about 37% of those with an anxiety disorder receive treatment. 

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

An anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive, extreme, prolonged, and abnormal levels of anxiety – especially in situations that don’t call for it. Some people experience this anxiety with normal, everyday tasks, while other people experience this anxiety in specific situations. 

Unlike normal anxiety, an anxiety disorder has a negative impact on an individual’s ability to live a peaceful life. Their anxiety levels impact them physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and socially. It starts to change the way an individual thinks, acts, behaves, and goes about their life. 

For example, some people with an anxiety disorder will avoid social interactions with others for fear of being embarrassed or judged. This might grow out of control – to the point they start missing work and/or isolating themselves from friends and family. This is where things go south.

How is an Anxiety Disorder Different Than Standard Feelings of Anxiety?

Like we mentioned above, we all experience standard feelings of anxiety from time to time – it’s a natural, normal, and healthy response to stress. Of course, there comes the point when that anxiety might overstay its welcome or impede your ability to complete everyday tasks. 

That’s the major difference between a standard type of anxiety and an anxiety disorder – the latter impacts your ability to live a quality life. With normal anxiety, we eventually learn to cope with and overcome the symptoms. With an anxiety disorder, there’s no overcoming the symptoms. 

An excellent example of this is people that have a fear of flying. On one side (standard anxiety), you have people that fear flying, but can do it when necessary. On the other side (anxiety disorder), you have people that fear flying, but won’t do it – even if necessary or mandatory.

What are the Different Types of Anxiety Disorders?

The term anxiety disorder is an umbrella term that refers to a group of disorders that cause excessive or persistent worry or fear. There are a number of different anxiety disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). 

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of anxiety disorders in the world today:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder – also known as GAD, this type of anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive anxiety most days, for most of the day. 
  • Social Anxiety Disorder – also known as social phobia, this type of anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive anxiety in most social situations. 
  • Phobia-Related Disorders – also known as specific phobia, this type of anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive fear or worry about certain objects or events.
  • Panic Disorder – this type of anxiety disorder is characterized by frequent and persistent panic attacks throughout the day. 
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder – also known as PTSD, this type of anxiety disorder is characterized by extreme fear, anxiety, or worry after a traumatic experience or event.
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – also known as OCD, this type of anxiety disorder is characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and uncontrollable behaviors (compulsions). 

Although they all fall under the ‘anxiety disorder’ umbrella, ensuring each patient receives the correct diagnosis is essential to their success in treatment. This often requires an open and honest discussion about the patient’s symptoms, current health, and how they live their lives. 

How to Find Anxiety Treatment Programs

Anxiety is the most common mental illness, and while it can have a negative impact on an individual’s life, there are a variety of ways to treat it. Without excessive or persistent anxiety, life is a real possibility for most people, but one must first find the right anxiety treatment program. 

Your anxiety treatment professionals must have experience treating all the many different anxiety disorders in existence today. In fact, that’s what makes Thrive Treatment one of the best anxiety treatment programs in Los Angeles – together, we can find much-needed relief. 
If you’d like to learn more about our Santa Monica anxiety treatment program and how we can help you learn to manage your anxiety disorder, contact us today – we’re excited to welcome you with open arms!

What is the Role of a Rehab Alumni Program?

What is the Role of a Rehab Alumni Program?

Over 25 million people require special treatment for illegal drug or alcohol use every single year, but only about 2.5 million of those people actually get the help they need. This staggering number shows just how many people are suffering from drug addiction on any given day. 

Those that do receive treatment will likely find themselves in some sort of inpatient or outpatient rehab facility. These facilities provide the necessary support, resources, guidance, and medical assistance needed to overcome their addiction – setting them up for a sober and healthy life. 

Rehab is often the difference between building a brighter future for yourself and continuing down the same dangerous road you’ve been on since you started using drugs. Those that take rehab seriously have a prime opportunity to better their lives and make the necessary changes in life. 

What is the Importance of Aftercare in Recovery?

Although rehab plays a crucial part in learning how to live without drugs or other harmful substances, it’s not the end-all when it comes to applying those behaviors long-term – especially after you leave rehab and are forced to transition back into normal society. 

That’s where aftercare comes into play. When former drug addicts leave rehab, there’s no guarantee that they will stay away from drugs, and there’s always a chance they relapse. With aftercare in recovery, the physicians and clinicians can monitor the patient’s progress. 

These patients require continued support as they assimilate back into society, otherwise, they might fall down the same path they were in before rehab. At the end of the day, the goal behind aftercare in recovery is to do whatever possible to ensure the patient doesn’t return to rehab. 

What is a Rehab Alumni Program?

A rehab alumni program is a form of aftercare for those who complete their rehab treatment program. It’s a way for those people to maintain a relationship with staff members that helped them overcome their addiction, as well as the friendships they made with other patients. 

Patients that join a rehab alumni program will be invited to a wide range of gatherings and outings designed to help them maintain motivation as they continue their sober life. This might include cookouts, bowling nights, movie nights, dinners, volunteering, support groups, and more.

During these gatherings, patients meet with staff members and other patients – some that they know already and some that they haven’t met before. By surrounding themselves with like-minded individuals, they can feel more comfortable and motivated in the aftercare stage. 

In fact, they might even set up an online support group through social media or meetings via video chat to ensure everyone is included. This also allows for a constant line of communication between former patients and staff members. They’ll always have the support they need. 

What is the Role of a Rehab Alumni Program?

The role of an alumni rehab program is to ensure patients continue their recovery at home after they complete the rehab program – in hopes of preventing relapse and minimizing the possibility of them needing rehab again. It keeps them motivated and committed when they need it most. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent benefits of joining an alumni rehab program:

  • Patients can effectively and successfully transition back into normal life without drugs.
  • Decrease in relapse rates and minimize the temptation to use drugs again.
  • Continue relationships with those they met while in rehab and meet other former patients that have similar goals. 
  • Access to educational materials and mental health professionals after leaving rehab. 
  • Attend fun, exciting, and rewarding social events that keep you motivated to continue sober living. 
  • Some alumni rehab programs offer assistance when finding work or attending school. 
  • Continued support when needed the most. 

Not all rehab facilities offer an alumni program because it’s not a requirement or mandatory. With that said, those that do offer it are more likely to see their patients succeed beyond rehab. While all alumni programs are unique in their own way, the goal of an alumni program is the same. 

How to Find a Rehab Alumni Program

A Santa Monica rehab center, Thrive Treatment understands how beneficial and necessary a rehab alumni program is to the continued support of each patient. That’s why we provide:

  • Weekly group activities.
  • Aftercare for striking a work-life balance.
  • Financial advice.
  • Relationship help.
  • Access to resources. 

If you’d like to learn more about our alumni rehab program and the lengths we go to ensure each patient sees long-term success with their recovery, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our friendly staff is excited to help you stay happy, healthy, and drug-free for as long as you live. 
Contact Thrive Treatment today to learn more about addiction and mental health treatment in Santa Monica.

10 Tips for Holding a Successful Intervention

10 Tips for Holding a Successful Intervention

The drug addiction epidemic has cost over 800,000 people their lives over the past few decades – including over 70,000 lives in 2019 alone. Even those that are lucky enough to live will likely experience a wide range of physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual consequences. 

Not only that, but drug addiction can create a significant strain on the individual’s relationships with their friends, family, coworkers, acquaintances, and anyone else they come across on a daily basis. The more they let drugs take control of their life, the more mayhem drugs will cause. 

The good news is drug addiction doesn’t have to be a life sentence – for the individual or for their loved ones. The problem is most drug addicts won’t receive the help or treatment they so desperately need. In fact, sometimes, those loved ones need to step in and take the lead. 

What is an Intervention?

According to Merriam-Webster, the term intervention is defined as “the act of interfering with the outcome or course, especially of a condition or process.” In regards to drug addiction and drug prevention, an intervention is an act of confronting a loved one over their actions and behavior. 

During an intervention, the addict’s loved ones – usually those that are closest to the individual or those directly impacted by their loved one’s addiction – open up about how the addiction is negatively impacting the health and wellness of those involved. It’s meant to be a wake-up call.

The goal behind an intervention is to convince the individual to seek help or treatment for their addiction. With the help of a professional interventionist, the loved ones reach out with an ultimatum in hopes of working towards a solution. If not accepted, there will be consequences.

Signs You Should Do an Intervention for Someone

When someone you know or love is struggling with drug addiction (or any other addiction, for that matter), time is of the essence. They need help, and they need it now – whether they know it or not. At a certain point, if they aren’t getting that help on their own, it’s time for you to step in. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most common signs it’s time to do an intervention for someone:

  • Continued increase in drug use or tolerance
  • Struggling financially as a result of buying drugs
  • Engaging in dangerous behavior in order to get drugs
  • Declining mental capacity as a result of drug use
  • The addict isn’t admitting they have an addiction
  • The addict is refusing treatment, despite needing it
  • Deteriorating physical health and appearance

When done correctly, an intervention can give the addict some valuable insight into how their addiction affects their loved ones – as well as their own physical and mental health. The sooner you hold an intervention for someone, the sooner they can start the addiction recovery process.

How to Get an Intervention for Someone

If you want to get an intervention for someone, it’s often best to enlist the help of a professional interventionist. They have the experience necessary to set up the intervention, act as a moderator during the intervention, and initiate the recovery process – if accepted by the addict.

The first step in the process involves planning the intervention – including who’s involved, where to hold the intervention, what the loved ones are going to say, what type of treatment they want their loved one to undergo, and what the consequences are if the loved one refuses treatment.

The second step is rehearsing the intervention – without the addict, of course. The professional interventionist in Southern California will help the individuals say the right things and ensure the process goes smoothly. Once a date is picked, and the addict is confronted, it’s time to do the intervention. 

10 Tips for Holding a Successful Intervention

A successful intervention could be the difference between your loved one overcoming their addiction and continuing to suffer from their addiction. Your loved one must understand how their addiction could potentially worsen, especially without treatment. 

Here are our top 10 tips for holding a successful intervention:

  1. Make sure you surround the addict with their closest loved ones.
  2. Choose a time when your loved one is sober and off drugs.
  3. Don’t do the intervention at home, but choose a comfortable location.
  4. Whoever has the closest relationship with the addict should speak last.
  5. Don’t do an intervention for someone until you’ve rehearsed it.
  6. Write a script to ensure you hit all the main talking points, don’t just wing it.
  7. Be mindful of your body language because it can trigger the addict.
  8. Stay level-headed during the intervention and don’t let emotions run too high.
  9. If the intervention doesn’t work the first time, be prepared to try again.
  10. Always hire a professional interventionist to ensure it goes smoothly.

Do you have a loved one that’s struggling with a drug or harmful substance addiction? Are you ready to nudge them towards treatment? Don’t worry, Thrive Treatment is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our evidence-based Santa Monica treatment programs and intervention help!

Can Anxiety Cause Addiction?

Can Anxiety Cause Addiction?

Anxiety is the most common mental illness in the United States, impacting over 13% of the country’s population every year. While it’s highly treatable, less than 40% of those suffering from an anxiety disorder will receive the help they so desperately need. 

Among the behavioral concerns that stem from anxiety is addiction. Over 10 million people misuse opioids every year, and more than 750,000 people have died from drug overdose since 1999. Nearly 15 million people above the age of 12 suffer from alcohol use disorder. 

Drug addiction and anxiety are two of the most common issues people face in the world, so it’s no surprise to learn that the two are sometimes connected. Drug and alcohol abuse can result in anxiety-related symptoms, and many anxiety patients are prone to experience drug addiction. 

Whether you have anxiety and are worried you might one day turn to drugs and alcohol, or you have an addiction and are suffering from anxiety-related symptoms, it’s important to know that help is available. If you feel you or a loved one needs help, don’t hesitate to reach out today!

What are Common Anxiety Disorders?

Anxiety is a normal, natural, and regular emotion everyone experiences daily. It’s used as a response to stress or high-pressure situations. It’s your body’s way of signaling that danger might lie ahead and to remain alert. In the right scenario, anxiety is necessary for survival.

Unfortunately, some people suffer from something called an anxiety disorder. This is when the body is exposed to high or prolonged levels of anxiety – especially in moments when anxiety isn’t needed. Let’s take a look at some of the most common anxiety disorders in the world today:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder – also known as GAD, generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and prolonged worrying about everyday life. 
  • Social Anxiety Disorder – this type of anxiety disorder is characterized by a deep fear of social interaction and large groups of people. It becomes extremely hard to socialize. 
  • Panic Disorder – often mistaken for a heart attack, panic disorders are characterized by intense physical symptoms that resemble a panic attack. It usually happens suddenly.
  • Specific Phobias – we all have certain things we’re terrified of, but some people have intense fears that impede their day-to-day lifestyle and create intense levels of anxiety.

If left untreated, it can result in a wide range of physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral problems that have a negative impact on an individual’s ability to live a happy, healthy, and rewarding life. For those suffering from an anxiety disorder, don’t hesitate to seek help. 

Can Anxiety Cause Addiction?

Those that are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder are at an increased risk of turning to drugs or other substances to cope with their symptoms. When they find their substance of choice that provides a sense of relief, they begin to use the drug often to sustain that relief long-term. 

The more they use the drug to cope with anxiety symptoms – whether it was prescribed to them or not – the more they grow a tolerance against the drug and a dependency on it. This often results in using higher-than-necessary doses of the drug, frequent usage, or prolonged use. 

This is often where addiction starts. Their mind, body, and soul become dependent on the drug, and it often worsens the anxiety symptoms and introduces a world of new risks and dangers. For these people, drug addiction and anxiety could be avoided with proper treatment. 

Can Addiction Cause Anxiety?

While anxiety often leads to drug addiction, it also works the other way around – addiction sometimes leads to anxiety in people that didn’t suffer from it before. Even those that had anxiety before will likely see their symptoms worsen if they become addicted to drugs. 

A majority of the anxiety-related symptoms will start during the recovery process – more specifically during the detoxification process when the individual starts to experience withdrawal symptoms. Things like stress, anxiety, depression, agitation, and irritation are very common. 

In some cases, doctors and mental health professionals will utilize medication to treat anxiety symptoms in addicted individuals. This can help ease the symptoms and provide relief, making it easier for the individual to focus their time, energy, and effort on recovery. 

How to Find Anxiety and Addiction Treatment Programs

If you’re suffering from a combination of anxiety and addiction, immediate help is necessary. Without proper treatment, your anxiety symptoms and dependence on drugs will continue to worsen over time. This will make it extremely difficult to find meaning and purpose in life. 

At Thrive Treatment, we take pride in helping individuals overcome their struggles with anxiety and addiction. We use a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle, habitual, and behavioral changes to ensure each patient is met with a lasting and sustainable recovery. 
To learn more about our Santa Monica treatment services, our philosophy, and how we can help people like you turn a new chapter in their life, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We can’t wait to help you begin your road to recovery – we’ll be with you every step of the way, don’t worry!

What are the Signs a Loved One is Addicted to Drugs?

What are the Signs a Loved One is Addicted to Drugs?

Millions of people around the world are struggling to overcome their drug addiction, and while widespread help is available, many people fail to receive the support they so desperately need. It’s a harsh reality that often comes with dire consequences for everyone involved. 

While most addicts don’t have the money or peace of mind to seek help on their own. In fact, some addicts have yet to accept they need treatment at all. With that said, an addict’s loved ones – including their friends and family – play a significant role in the process. 

Quitting a drug – whether it’s alcohol, nicotine, prescription drugs, illegal drugs, etc. – is never easy, but it’s certainly possible with the right assistance, guidance, and support. If you know someone that can benefit from drug addiction treatment, seek professional help immediately. 

What are the Signs a Loved One is Addicted to Drugs?

Drug addiction impacts an individual’s life in more ways than one, and understanding the many different signs and symptoms can save someone’s life. Early detection and swift action go a long way in ensuring the individual receives the proper treatment and help at the right time. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most common physical, psychological, emotional, and relational signs of drug addiction:

  • Physical Signs – stumbling often, lack of coordination, reduced sexual function, cramps, weight loss, frequent runny nose, random cuts and bruises, dilated pupils, and red eyes.
  • Psychological Signs – changes in sleep patterns, increase or decrease in confidence, talking more or less than usual, suicidal thoughts, harming oneself, and hallucinations.
  • Emotional Signs – crying often, moments of hysteria, verbal abuse, depression, anxiety, irritability, agitation, lack of interest, and frequently being on the defensive. 
  • Relational Signs – frequent and violent arguments, hard time holding a conversation, distancing oneself, isolation, marital issues, always asking for money, and missing work.

As you can see, drug addiction changes the way a person thinks, acts, behaves, feels, interacts, and socializes with those around them. Not only that, but it has a significant impact on those that love and care about them dearly. With the right help, everyone involved can recover. 

How to Get a Loved One Into Rehab?

Although it’s usually the individual’s choice to start using drugs, it’s essential to understand that addiction isn’t a choice. Even those who want help and want to be independent of drugs will have difficulty overcoming the withdrawal symptoms and temptations to start using again.

If the loved one comes forward about their addiction and need for help, stay calm and free of judgment. It takes a lot of courage to admit to their drug addiction. This is no time to make your loved one feel guilty or embarrassed. They need your support, and they need it right now. 

Ask them if they’d like to start searching for a drug treatment program that suits their needs. Be right by their side when calling and visiting rehab centers. When they have someone by their side every step of the way, they feel a little more comfortable and motivated to seek help. 

If they haven’t admitted to addiction, but you see signs a loved one is addicted to drugs; you’ll want to confront them – while avoiding making them uncomfortable. They’ll likely get defensive, but you want to assure them that you only want to help them live a more healthy lifestyle. 

Pick the right time and date to confront them. Consider holding an intervention with a professional interventionist. Be honest with them and avoid judging them on their behavior. And most importantly, listen to them. Let them know you’re only there because you love them dearly.

Finding the Best Drug Treatment Program

If your loved one is an addict, time is of the essence. The longer they abuse drugs, the more they’ll continue to harm their physical, emotional, mental, and social self. Addiction treatment is available, and while it’s often a complex process, your loved one can recover and thrive in life.

At Thrive Treatment, your loved one is in good hands. We understand that addiction isn’t a choice and firmly believe that rehab treatment isn’t a punishment. It’s the beginning of what could be the rest of their healthy, happy, and rewarding life. It’ll change their life forever. Thrive Treatment is an outpatient rehab in Southern California, ready to help you today.
Our goal is to provide addiction treatment in Santa Monica and to help the individual sustain sobriety, understand the consequences of drug addiction, develop personal values and healthy habits, heal broken relationships, do away with toxic relationships, and learn how to care for oneself. Contact us today to learn more!

Why is Prescription Drug Abuse So Common?

Why is Prescription Drug Abuse So Common?

When diagnosed with a health condition, your doctor will likely prescribe a medication to help cope with or overcome the symptoms. Prescription drug use plays an enormous role in the recovery process and is often the difference between living a quality life and inadequate life. 

Prescription drugs can do a lot of good for a patient, and while millions of people use them properly on a daily basis, this isn’t true for everyone. Some people fail to follow the directions, and some even abuse them, which often results in severe outcomes or death.

Most people abuse prescription drugs by either taking too large of a dose at one time, taking a normal dose too often, or taking a prescription drug for non-medical reasons. Any of these behaviors is a sign of addiction.

What Prescription Drugs Are Commonly Abused?

There are more than 20,000 prescription drugs that are approved by the FDA for marketing. While not all of them are abused by patients, certain ones are more commonly abused than others and often require strict supervision when prescribed to a patient. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs in the world today:

  • Depressants – the three most common categories of depressants are Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, and sleep medications. They generally give you a euphoric feeling, calming feeling by slowing down the body’s systems. When use stops, the body struggles to continue to function at a higher speed than it has become used to.
  • Opioids & Morphine Derivatives – the most common types of opioids and morphine derivatives include codeine, morphine, methadone, fentanyl, and oxycodone. These drugs also slow the body’s nervous system, but opioids directly engage with the brain’s opioid receptors, which control pain, unlike depressants.
  • Stimulants – the two most common categories of prescription stimulants include Amphetamines (for example, Adderall) and Methylphenidate (for example, Ritalin). Stimulants are known for speeding up the body’s system, causing increased energy.

According to the NIDA, over 16 million Americans above the age of 12 misused a prescription psychotherapeutic drug in the past 12 months. More than 16,000 Americans died from opioid overdose in 2020, over 12,000 from benzodiazepines, and over 5,000 from antidepressants.

Why is Prescription Drug Abuse So Common?

Prescription drug abuse is common for a variety of reasons, but one of the most prominent is how accessible they are in today’s society. Whether you’ve been prescribed the medication yourself or a family member has the prescription, many may have access within the home.

In fact, a majority of prescription drug addicts were, at one time, using the drug legally and properly. Over time, they might grow a dependence, tolerance, or both to the drug. This often results in taking higher-than-normal doses or taking doses more frequently than needed.

People often abuse prescription drugs to enjoy the ‘high’ they get, relax, reduce appetite, increase alertness, experiment with the mental impact, maintain an addiction, prevent withdrawal symptoms, peer pressure, or improve performance at work or school. 

What are the Signs of Prescription Drug Use?

The signs and symptoms of prescription drug abuse generally depend on the type of drug being abused. For example, abusing depressants can result in drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, difficulty concentrating, poor memory, dizziness, slowed breathing, and difficulty walking. 

Signs of opioid abuse include constipation, nausea, euphoria, slowed breathing, confusion, drowsiness, poor coordination, and increased tolerance. Signs of stimulant abuse are insomnia, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, high body temperature, agitation, and reduced appetite.

Some other more neutral symptoms include stealing to get your ‘fix,’ taking higher doses than needed, frequent mood swings, poor sleeping habits, poor decision-making, requesting refills earlier than expected, lying about losing prescriptions to get more, and taking doses too often.

How to Find Rehab for Prescription Drug Addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug addiction or abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Quality Southern California outpatient rehabs and treatment centers are ready and willing to help you overcome the addiction – all you need to do is reach out. 

At Thrive Treatment, we use an evidence-based, trusted treatment program in Santa Monica to ensure our patients have the resources and support they so desperately need. We utilize relational and behavioral therapy, along with holistic, medical and psychiatric interventions when treating drug abusers.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more about our services, visit our facility, or inquire about checking someone into our rehab center. Together, we can help you regain control of your life and put you in a position to live a quality, happy, healthy, and rewarding life in the future.

What are the Most Addictive Drugs?

What are the Most Addictive Drugs?

Drug addiction is a global problem that impacts around 35 million people at any given time. Drug use disorders account for over 180,000 deaths each year, and illicit drug use accounts for over 500,000 deaths. Over 269 million people have used drugs in the past year.

There’s a stark difference between drug use, drug misuse, and drug addiction. Drug use simply refers to the use of any drug, while drug misuse refers to improper or unhealthy use of a drug. Drug addiction treatment, also known as a substance abuse disorder, is the most severe form of drug use.

Using highly addictive drugs comes at a high cost – not just to you but also to your family and loved ones who care about you. It impacts your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health and causes a great deal of distress, worry, and disappointment in those around you.

What are the Most Addictive Drugs?

While all drugs can cause harm to an individual, especially when abused, some drugs are more addictive than others. They’re the drugs that consistently lead to drug addiction and often result in overdose or death. They don’t discriminate, and they’ll turn anyone into a statistic.

Let’s take a look at five of the most addictive drugs in the world today:

  • Heroin – one of the fastest-acting and most addictive drugs, heroin is made from morphine and binds to opioid receptors in the brain when injected, snorted, or smoked.
  • Crack/Cocaine – one of the most addictive stimulants in the world. It can be used medically in certain situations, but it is illegal to use crack or cocaine recreationally. 
  • Methamphetamine – another highly-addictive stimulant that’s usually available in crystal form. The ‘high’ doesn’t last very long, which is why people tend to abuse it. 
  • Alcohol – one of the most used drugs, alcohol is a depressant that plays a significant role in society today. While it’s okay to drink alcohol in moderation, many people abuse it. 
  • Nicotine – commonly found in vapes, cigarettes, and other tobacco products, nicotine is a highly-addictive drug that’s incredibly difficult to quit, even when used sparingly.

In addition to the drugs listed above, the National Institute on Drug Use (NIDA) considers depressants, hallucinogens, inhalants, over-the-counter medication, prescription drugs, steroids, cannabis (marijuana), and steroids as some of the most commonly used addictive drugs. 

What Causes Drug Addiction? 

When drugs enter the body, they generally overload the central nervous system with dopamine and other chemicals that impact the reward circuit in the brain. As an individual grows fond of this euphoric feeling, they tend to use the substance more and more. This reduces tolerance and increases dependency. 

As tolerance goes down, individuals must use larger amounts or take doses more often. Dependency rises, and addiction settles in. By this point, even those that want to quit will have a hard time doing so. An individual’s genetics, environment, and upbringing can also factor in.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Withdrawal?

It’s very common for individuals to experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit an addictive or harmful substance. When the body becomes dependent on a particular substance, doing away with that substance will likely upset the body and result in a variety of symptoms.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common symptoms of withdrawal:

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Muscle pain, bone pain
  • Shaking, shivering, and restlessness
  • Excessive sweating, chills, high temperature
  • Fatigue, exhaustion, insomnia, and vivid dreams
  • Heart palpitations, headaches, and flu symptoms
  • Depression, anxiety, panic attacks
  • Confusion, paranoia, irritability, and agitation
  • Short-term memory loss, difficulty focusing, and intense cravings

Withdrawal symptoms are one of the main reasons people find it difficult to quit using addictive drugs and substances. They often overwhelm the individual to the point where they decide they’re better off using again. If this sounds like you, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. 

How to Find the Best Drug Addiction Treatment Programs Near Me

Every day, people worldwide are struggling with drug addiction, which results in hundreds of thousands of deaths every year. People need help, and they need it right now. Unfortunately, most people don’t know where or how to get the help they so desperately need.

At Thrive Treatment, we take an evidence-based and human approach to drug addiction treatment in Santa Monica, CA. We understand the stark reality that surrounds highly addictive drugs, and we’re dedicated to ensuring our patients have the resources they need to overcome drug addiction. 
If you’d like to learn more about our program or how we can help you develop healthy habits on a daily basis, please don’t hesitate to contact Thrive Treatment today.

What are the Side Effects of Ketamine Use?

What are the Side Effects of Ketamine Use?

If you or someone close to you is showing symptoms of ketamine use, it might be time to get help. At Thrive Treatment, we are here to provide customized recovery. 

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a drug sometimes used by doctors and veterinarians as an anesthetic. Ketamine effects change the brain and help people fall into a dissociative state. For many, this ability to get a distorted reality is something they want long after their surgery or treatment. This is what leads to abuse. 

Ketamine is used to change the way your brain controls auditory and visual input. This is why it’s used as an anesthetic, and it is preferred over other anesthetics because it doesn’t slow down your breathing or heart rate. This means people can undergo medical procedures like surgery under anesthesia without needing a ventilator. 

But some people use ketamine illegally to try and get that same sort of high, with changes to the auditory and visual input.

Ketamine has many names on the street, including:

  • Bump
  • K
  • Special K
  • Vitamin K
  • Green K
  • Kit Kat
  • Donkey Dust
  • Cat Valium

How is Ketamine Used?

Ketamine can be used in different ways. In a hospital, a doctor might inject ketamine into your IV. But if you are using it illegally, it might be snorted, swallowed, or smoked with cannabis and tobacco. The way in which it is used will impact the ketamine effects you get.

An injection of ketamine in a hospital setting works instantly. This means the hospital staff can add ketamine to your IV, and within one minute, it takes effect, and they can start the surgery. However, if it’s taken illegally and it’s snorted, it can take 10 minutes before it kicks in, and if it’s swallowed, it can take up to 30 minutes to kick in.

What are the Side Effects of Ketamine Use?

Once it kicks in, ketamine can cause lots of different effects. The side effects of ketamine use will vary based on your drug history, your current level of health, how much you ingest, and how you use it.

For most people, it initially does things like create hallucinations and reduce your sensitivity to pain, which is why it’s used as an anesthetic. But if you are using ketamine illegally, it can cause slurred speech or confusion, blurred vision, increased heart rate, and even trigger things like panic attacks or vomiting. 

If you use it regularly, these short-term side effects can compound and lead to long-term side effects. Long-term, using ketamine puts you at risk for very high blood pressure. This doesn’t seem like much of a risk when you consider all the different side effects of various illegal substances, but that’s exactly the problem: most users don’t consider how severe a risk that is. Regular high blood pressure can lead to convulsions and a loss of consciousness. Regular problems with concentration can result in long-term memory issues. You might experience abnormal kidney or liver function, abnormal pain, and problems with your bladder.

In fact, ketamine bladder syndrome is the biggest risk of regular ketamine use. It can cause bladder ulcers, incontinence, and more. 

How to Find Ketamine Addiction Treatment

When you start looking for treatment to offset the side effects of ketamine, you will find very little that you can do on your own. Like many drugs, ketamine is something best overcome with the help of a professional drug treatment center.

Since ketamine often will not cause as severe withdrawal symptoms as drugs such as cocaine or heroin, outpatient or partial hospitalization drug treatment programs are often sufficient. 

If you are dealing with the side effects of ketamine, and you want to overcome the symptoms of ketamine use, Thrive Treatment can help. Our outpatient drug rehab is located in beautiful Southern California. We offer a safe, secure environment for your recovery journey. If you are suffering from ketamine effects and co-existing or co-occurring disorders, we can help you with your outpatient drug treatment and long-term aftercare. Our facility specializes in evidence-based practices and holistic therapies to help you build a foundation early in your recovery, and our aftercare gives you the highest chances of success.

Let Thrive Treatment help you with your ketamine recovery.

What are the Signs of PTSD in Women?

What are the Signs of PTSD in Women?

Trauma touches the lives of millions of people every year. Being a victim of trauma or witnessing a traumatic event is a common event in the lives of thousands of Americans every year. Unfortunately, today’s news and social media content only further traumatic responses for many people.

PTSD is a common mental health struggle caused by trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder is frequently linked to specific professions such as soldiers, police officers, or firefighters. Although trauma is often part of the day-to-day work environment for these individuals, trauma is not restricted to specific individuals or professions.

What is PTSD?

PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health struggle arising from trauma. PTSD is frequently associated with occupations that often witness or experience violence, but the disorder can affect anyone who is either the victim or witness to any traumatic event. Although PTSD is common among particular groups, it can affect anyone regardless of age, career choice, gender identity, or other demographic. PTSD affects up to 3.5% of the U.S population each year. Up to 11% of people will receive a PTSD diagnosis at some point in their lifetime.

What Causes PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD results from different types of trauma. Clearly understanding what causes PTSD requires understanding what trauma means. Unfortunately, the concept of trauma does not have a singular clear definition. Trauma or the experience of a traumatic event means different things to different people. Common examples of trauma that are commonly linked to developing PTSD include serious injury, natural disasters, abuse, assault, serious illness, loss of a loved one, or experiencing acts of terrorism or violence.

It is important to remember that PTSD can develop in different ways. Someone doesn’t need to experience (be the victim of) trauma themselves to have that event influence their emotions. Although directly witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event is the most common, it is also possible to experience PTSD symptoms by learning a traumatic experience has impacted a friend or loved one. It is also necessary to remember that what one person views as traumatic may not be traumatic for others. Regardless, each can lead to complex and potentially serious mental health challenges that require comprehensive therapy to address safely.

Does PTSD Affect Women Differently Than Men?

Like many other mental health challenges, PTSD affects women more often than men. It is believed that up to 50% of women will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. PTSD can affect both men and women; however, there are differences in how PTSD symptoms impact women. Reporting provided by the National Center for PTSD suggests more than 10% of women will receive a PTSD diagnosis in their lifetime. Similar research studies show women are more than twice as likely as men to experience PTSD.

What are the Signs of PTSD in Women?

The signs and symptoms of PTSD are often similar across the genders. When someone struggles with PTSD, they often experience a broad range of symptoms all connected to their trauma. These thoughts and feelings are powerful and can often be overwhelming. In most cases, PTSD symptoms will persist for weeks, months, or even years after the specific situation that caused the initial trauma has resolved.

The thoughts and emotions linked to trauma are painful, disturbing, and generally difficult to manage. For some, nightmares and flashbacks lead to fear and dread of reliving the event every day. Others experience hypervigilance (heightened awareness) and increased reactivity to ordinary stimuli such as balloons popping, hands clapping, a door slamming. Women who have experienced specific trauma such as sexual trauma or abuse may experience symptoms at the touch or embrace of someone else. People who struggle with PTSD actively avoid specific circumstances (events, people, places, etc.) that remind them of their particular trauma.

Finding Women’s PTSD Treatment in Santa Monica, CA

The symptoms and struggles you experience when you struggle with PTSD are overwhelming and pervasive. In time you may feel as though it is impossible to overcome or manage your symptoms without help and support. Seeking early intervention is vital to achieving the most favorable treatment outcomes possible. Remember, your symptoms may look different than PTSD symptoms in someone else. For this reason, it is important to seek help at an outpatient facility like Thrive Treatment, where our treatment team members understand the unique needs of women seeking help to overcome PTSD. Our PTSD treatment programs will help you develop a treatment program unique to your needs. If you are ready to get your life back and start your recovery from PTSD, contact us today to learn more about PTSD treatment in Santa Monica, CA.