If you would like to learn more about Garden State Treatment Center, the fastest way to get your questions answered is to give us a call! We have friendly representatives available to take your call 24 hours a day.
If you would like to learn more about Garden State Treatment Center, the fastest way to get your questions answered is to give us a call! We have friendly representatives available to take your call 24 hours a day.
Twelve-step programs — In an American survey of treatment providers from three separate institutions (the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse…
Most individuals who are somewhat familiar with the illicit drug trade have heard the term “open-air drug market.” But what does this term mean, and are open-air drug markets a legitimate thing, or is this just some strange metaphor or slang phrase? The National Criminal Justice Reference Service published a study that focused on open-air drug markets – what this term means, and whether or not it is a serious issue. The study concludes that the markets that are referenced are known areas, where dealers can sell illicit substances and buyers, can purchase illicit substances in broad daylight – usually in the middle of the day, and in the middle of a large group of unwitting passersby.
When we think of the phrase “drug deal,” we generally think of a shady exchange that happens in the shadows of a dark alleyway or the back corner of an empty parking lot. Because drug dealing has become such a prevalent part of mainstream society, the selling, and purchasing of illicit substances is currently liable to happen in any situation or circumstance. Over the past several years, New Jersey has been devastated by drug abuse – specifically opioid abuse.
Widespread prescription painkiller dependence ultimately led to heroin addiction, and overdose-related deaths spiked significantly. Open-air drug markets cater predominantly to individuals in New Jersey who have developed a serious opioid-related disorder, and who are looking for a “quick fix” as soon as possible.
Why Open-Air Drug Markets?
In short – yes. New Jersey does have an open-air drug market. It has several. Drug markets cater to New Jersey residents who have developed substance abuse or dependency disorders and are looking to obtain their drug of choice as quickly as they possibly can. Those who have experienced drug addiction firsthand will know how the process of purchasing an illicit substance generally works. In most cases, people will have one or two dealers that supply them with the majority of the drugs they purchase. People will develop an unhealthy form of loyalty to their dealer, and go to one person whenever they need their “fix” regardless of the cost of the drugs concerned and the reliability of the dealer they have been buying from.
Sometimes, reliability becomes an issue. Drug dealers tend not to be the most trustworthy of individuals in a lot of cases – and for good reason, they deal with illicit substances. Some dealers will get in trouble with law enforcement officers and get locked up indefinitely. Some will begin using themselves and shortly find themselves in drug addiction treatment programs or prison because of the habits they have developed. If an individual who has developed a drug addiction has also developed a personal reliance on a specific dealer and the dealer falls through, he or she might very well turn to a New Jersey open-air drug market.
Open-Air Drug Markets in New Jersey
At Garden State Treatment Center, we understand the reasoning behind seeking illicit substances in an open-air drug market – we know that addiction lends itself to desperation, and those who are desperate will go to any length to get their hands on their drug of choice. We also understand how prevalent and accessible illicit substances are in New Jersey, and how important quality clinical care is in a state ravaged by drug abuse and addiction. If you or someone close to you has developed a serious drug addiction disorder, there is help available.
Garden State Treatment Center serves men and women who live in New Jersey and all surrounding areas, helping them overcome addiction and go on to lead happy and fulfilling lives. To learn more about our comprehensive program of drug addiction treatment in New Jersey, please feel free to give us a call at your earliest possible convenience. We are available to help in any way that we can.
Hydrocodone is a potent, prescription opioid painkiller, often prescribed to those experiencing moderate to severe pain for a short amount of time (rarely is hydrocodone considered a longer-term solution, seeing as it is so habit-forming). Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid, meaning that it is partially derived from natural sources and partially created with chemicals in a laboratory. Vicodin is the brand name for hydrocodone – most people know this specific drug by its brand name. Prescribing physicians will generally write a prescription for hydrocodone to treat short-term pain, like post-surgical pain, or pain following an invasive dental procedure.
This specific opioid is extremely addictive, which is why it is only prescribed in the short-term. Those who take the drug other than as prescribed are at high risk of addiction (taking the drug other than prescribed is always considered abuse). Over time – with abuse – the body will begin to build a tolerance towards hydrocodone, meaning that greater quantities of the drug will be required to produce the same effects. Once tolerance begins to build, ceasing use abruptly will lead to symptoms of withdrawal. Abusing hydrocodone is a slippery slope, and those who develop a substance dependency will need professional addiction treatment to successfully overcome their physical and mental dependence. One of the most popular brand name hydrocodone-based drugs is called Norco, and a Norco drug high can quickly create a dependence leading to Norco addiction.
What Does Taking Hydrocodone Feel Like?
Those who take hydrocodone as prescribed will experience a reduction of pain. The drug connects to pain receptors within the brain, blocking messages of pain sent from other parts of the body to the brain. Unfortunately, hydrocodone is one of the most commonly abused opioid painkillers in the country.
Those who abuse the drug will take it even when they aren’t experiencing pain-related symptoms – they will take it to produce a “high.” Taking any powerful opioid-based prescription painkiller other than as it is prescribed can produce a high because doing so can produce fleeting feelings of intense relaxation and euphoria. Those who abuse the drug have reported feeling the following sensations:
Increased ability and desire to socialize.
Feelings of euphoria.
Increased feelings of contentment and relaxation.
Feeling warm or comfortable and at peace.
While these might sound like favorable experiences, it is important to note that most of the pleasurable effects of taking hydrocodone will subside after the first use. As those who continue abusing the drug begin to take it in greater quantities, they will experience symptoms like:
Fatigue and exhaustion.
Nausea, vomiting, and other stomach issues.
Mood swings, marked by irritability and agitation.
Lack of motivation.
A desire to be alone; social isolation.
Those that abuse hydrocodone will incessantly chase the initial high, finding themselves unable to achieve it. This will lead to an unpleasant and progressively worsening cycle of abuse.
Garden State Treatment Center and Hydrocodone Abuse
At Garden State Treatment Center, we have extensive experience working with individuals who have been abusing prescription painkillers of all kinds. We understand how devastating the cycle of addiction can be, and we have dedicated our lives to helping those who are suffering overcome addiction and go on to lead fulfilling, drug-free lives. Those who have prescribed hydrocodone (or those who are offered the painkiller by a friend or find an unused or expired prescription) are often tempted to “experiment.”
It is important to recognize that experimentation can easily lead to abuse and that abuse often leads to addiction. If you or someone you love has been abusing hydrocodone or any other prescription painkiller, we are available to help. For more information on painkiller addiction recovery, or to learn more about the risks involved in abusing hydrocodone, please feel free to reach out to us today.
We will gladly explain how our effective and comprehensive program works, and answer any additional questions you may have. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
FAQ
What is a safe dosage of Hydrocodone?
The safe dosage of hydrocodone varies based on individual factors such as the person’s age, weight, overall health, liver function, and tolerance to opioids, as well as the specific formulation of the medication (hydrocodone is often combined with acetaminophen or ibuprofen).
Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain. Because it has the potential for abuse and can be habit-forming, it is important to use hydrocodone strictly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Generally, for adults who have not been taking opioids, a common starting dose of hydrocodone might be 5 to 10 mg taken every four to six hours as needed for pain. However, formulations and dosing schedules can vary.
Key Points to Consider:
Follow Prescribing Instructions: Always follow the dosing instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare professional and never take more than the prescribed dose.
Be Aware of Acetaminophen Content: Many hydrocodone products are combined with acetaminophen. It is important to be aware of the acetaminophen content to avoid exceeding the maximum daily limit, as high doses of acetaminophen can be toxic to the liver.
Monitor for Side Effects: Hydrocodone can have side effects including drowsiness, constipation, and respiratory depression. It is important to be aware of these side effects and to communicate with a healthcare professional if you experience them.
Avoid Alcohol and Other CNS Depressants: Do not consume alcohol or use other central nervous system depressants while taking hydrocodone, as this can enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of respiratory depression.
Seek Medical Advice for Dosing Adjustments: If you feel that the medication is not effectively managing your pain, or if you are experiencing side effects, consult your healthcare professional. Do not make any changes to the medication regimen on your own.
Have a Plan for Discontinuation: If you need to stop taking hydrocodone, it’s important to have a plan for tapering off the medication under the supervision of a healthcare professional, to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Remember, hydrocodone is a powerful medication and should be used with caution. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and information on safe dosing.
How does Hydrocodone make you feel?
Hydrocodone is an opioid medication that’s often prescribed to relieve severe pain. Here’s what some patients report feeling when they take hydrocodone, bearing in mind that experiences can vary:
Pain Relief: Hydrocodone is primarily used to treat moderate to severe pain. As an opioid, it changes the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain, resulting in pain relief.
Euphoria: Some people experience feelings of euphoria (a sensation of intense happiness or excitement) when taking hydrocodone, especially in higher doses. This effect contributes to the drug’s potential for misuse and addiction.
Relaxation and Calm: Hydrocodone can produce feelings of relaxation and calm. Some people describe this as a feeling of warmth and well-being.
Drowsiness or Fatigue: Many people experience drowsiness or fatigue as a result of taking hydrocodone. This is why it’s generally advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this medication.
Confusion or Cognitive Impairment: Hydrocodone can affect cognition, causing confusion or difficulties with thinking clearly.
Physical Dependence and Withdrawal: Regular use of hydrocodone can lead to physical dependence. This means that the body becomes used to the drug’s presence, and withdrawal symptoms can occur if the medication is stopped suddenly.
Negative side effects can also occur, such as nausea, constipation, and, as you mentioned earlier, itching. Severe side effects can include slowed breathing, low blood pressure, or dependence. It’s important to take hydrocodone only as directed by a healthcare provider due to these potential risks. If you have any concerns about taking this medication, it’s best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Pure heroin, diacetylmorphine, is a white powder with a bitter taste abused for its euphoric effects. Heroin, a highly addictive drug, is derived from the morphine alkaloid found in the opium poppy plant and is roughly 2 to 3 times more potent than morphine. Users become fast addicted to heroin both mentally and physically as they seek to experience the unique sensations provided by the drug.
It exhibits euphoric, anti-anxiety, and pain-relieving properties. It is usually injected, smoked, or snorted up the nose. Heroin is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, carries stiff criminal penalties, and has no acceptable medical use in the United States. Of all the commonly abused addictive opioids, few are more dangerous than heroin.
What is Suboxone?
Suboxone is a brand-name prescription drug and is an addiction treatment medication used in opioid replacement therapy. As an opiate itself, it has a potential for abuse. Suboxone helps reverse the side effects of short-acting opioids, including heroin and prescription painkillers. Consisting of two ingredients, Buprenorphine, and naloxone, Suboxone prevents the painful withdrawal symptoms caused by opioid addiction. Suboxone comes as an oral film that’s placed under your tongue (sublingual) or between your gums and cheek (buccal). The film dissolves in your mouth. Some people begin abusing Suboxone after it’s been prescribed as part of a treatment regimen for opioid dependency.
What are the Effects of Using Heroin While on Suboxone?
The key difference between Suboxone and other opioids is the added naloxone component, which serves to counter the action of opioid-based drugs. The naloxone component, in Suboxone, works by attaching to opioid receptors and blocking other opioids, such as heroin, from producing addictive euphoric sensations. Using Suboxone together with heroin, which causes central nervous system depression as well, can lead to serious side effects such as respiratory distress, coma, and even death.
If Suboxone is abused to get high, the naloxone will inhibit the buprenorphine component of the drug from binding to the opioid receptors, making the person experience the unpleasant symptoms of withdrawal. If a heroin-dependent person were to take Suboxone simultaneously with heroin, or shortly after using heroin, the body’s strong preference for Suboxone will counter the non-specific actions of the more potent heroin, sending the user into immediate withdrawal. Such predicaments can be very dangerous, and they defeat the purpose of Suboxone as a remedial drug.
What are the Benefits of Suboxone?
Suboxone offers several benefits to those with opioid dependency and to others for whom treatment in a methadone clinic is not preferred or is less convenient. Approved for clinical use by the Food and Drug Administration, medications such as buprenorphine, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, provide a whole-patient approach to the treatment of opioid dependence, FDA. When taken as prescribed, buprenorphine is safe and effective. The buprenorphine/naloxone combination, Suboxone, is one of only two opioid addiction treatment medications, the other being Subutex, to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration for usage outside of licensed opioid treatment facilities.
Heroin Addiction Treatment
You can get help and lead a successful, productive life. The first step is acknowledging the potential problem and just by asking yourself if you want to be the best version of yourself that you can be, you’re already on the right track. Here at Garden State Treatment Center, we provide group therapy, individual addiction counseling, relapse prevention treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, 12 step addiction treatment, and many other services that help teach you the skills you need to lead a Suboxone and Heroin free life. We believe in treating the entire person, not just their addictions. We personalize the treatment plan based on the individual’s characteristics. Our admissions team is standing by for your call.
FAQ
Can you take heroin with Suboxone?
I must emphasize that it is extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening to combine heroin with Suboxone or any other medication without the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Suboxone is a medication that contains buprenorphine and naloxone, and it is used to treat opioid dependence. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, which means it binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioids like heroin but does not activate them to the same extent. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist, which means it blocks the effects of opioids on the brain.
When a person takes Suboxone as part of a medically-supervised treatment program for opioid dependence, the goal is to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid use.
Combining heroin with Suboxone is dangerous for several reasons:
Precipitated Withdrawal: If a person takes Suboxone too soon after using heroin or other opioids, the naloxone component can cause precipitated withdrawal, which is a rapid onset of severe withdrawal symptoms.
Overdose Risk: Trying to overcome the blocking effects of naloxone by using large amounts of heroin can lead to an overdose.
Respiratory Depression: Both heroin and buprenorphine can cause respiratory depression, where breathing becomes dangerously slow. Combining these substances can potentially cause respiratory failure.
Impeding Treatment: Using heroin while on Suboxone undermines the goal of treatment, which is to reduce dependence on opioids and move towards recovery.
It is critically important for individuals who are on Suboxone or any medication-assisted treatment for opioid dependence to work closely with their healthcare provider and follow the treatment plan as prescribed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid dependence or addiction, it is crucial to seek professional help. There are effective treatments available, and a healthcare provider can guide you in making choices that support recovery and well-being.
Can you get high while on Suboxone?
Suboxone is a medication used to treat opioid dependence. It contains a combination of buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. The purpose of Suboxone treatment is to help individuals overcome opioid addiction by reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
When taken as prescribed and under medical supervision, Suboxone is not intended to produce a “high” sensation. Buprenorphine, the active ingredient in Suboxone, is designed to bind to the same opioid receptors in the brain as other opioids, but with a weaker effect. This helps to alleviate withdrawal symptoms without inducing a euphoric high.
However, it’s important to note that everyone’s body chemistry and response to medications can differ. Some individuals may experience mild euphoria or sedation when they first start taking Suboxone or if they take it in larger doses than prescribed. However, the effects are typically less intense compared to other opioids. Taking Suboxone in ways other than prescribed, such as crushing or injecting it, can increase the risk of getting high and may be dangerous.
It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage and usage instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment. If you have concerns about your medication or its effects, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.
What happens if you use Heroin while taking Sublocade?
Using heroin while taking Sublocade (buprenorphine extended-release injection) is highly dangerous and not recommended. Sublocade is used as a medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder and is intended to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid dependence. Here are a few things that could happen if someone uses heroin while on Sublocade:
Precipitated Withdrawal: Sublocade contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist. If a person takes heroin, a full opioid agonist, while on Sublocade, it can lead to precipitated withdrawal. This happens because buprenorphine displaces other opioids from receptors in the brain, leading to a rapid onset of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be severe and include nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, agitation, and muscle aches.
Reduced Effects of Heroin: Sublocade can block the effects of heroin and other opioids to some extent. Because buprenorphine has a higher affinity for opioid receptors but only partially activates them, someone who uses heroin while on Sublocade might not experience the usual euphoria or “high” associated with heroin. This may lead to taking higher doses of heroin in an attempt to achieve the desired effects, which increases the risk of overdose.
Overdose Risk: Using heroin, especially in higher doses, while on Sublocade increases the risk of overdose. While buprenorphine can block some of the effects of opioids, it’s not foolproof. Combining heroin with Sublocade can lead to respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, and death.
Compromised Treatment Goals: Using heroin while in treatment with Sublocade goes against the goal of recovery from opioid use disorder. It compromises the treatment process and makes it harder to achieve stability and recovery.
If you or someone you know is taking Sublocade and is struggling with heroin use, it is critical to seek help immediately. Contact a healthcare provider, addiction specialist, or local addiction treatment center for assistance. It’s important to communicate openly with healthcare providers about the challenges faced during recovery so that they can provide the necessary support and adjustments to the treatment plan.
What happens when you take opiates while on Suboxone?
Taking opiates while on Suboxone can have several effects, depending on the specific circumstances. Suboxone contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, which means it binds to the same opioid receptors in the brain as other opioids but with a weaker effect. The naloxone component of Suboxone acts as an opioid antagonist, blocking the effects of other opioids.
If a person takes opiates while on Suboxone, the naloxone component may counteract the effects of the opiates, preventing them from binding to the opioid receptors and reducing the likelihood of experiencing a full opioid high. However, it’s important to note that the naloxone in Suboxone is primarily effective when taken orally as prescribed. If Suboxone is crushed or injected, the naloxone can have a stronger effect and precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
Additionally, if someone takes opiates while on Suboxone, it can interfere with the effectiveness of the Suboxone treatment itself. The opiates may compete with buprenorphine for the opioid receptors, potentially reducing the effectiveness of Suboxone in controlling withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any other medications or substances while on Suboxone. They can provide guidance based on your individual circumstances and help you make informed decisions about your treatment. Mixing substances without medical supervision can be risky and may jeopardize your recovery and overall well-being.
Is it true that suboxone withdrawal is worse than heroin withdrawal?
Suboxone, a medication that contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, is commonly used to treat opioid dependence, including dependence on heroin. Its role is to reduce the symptoms of opioid withdrawal and decrease cravings.
Comparing withdrawal from Suboxone to withdrawal from heroin can be somewhat subjective and may vary from person to person. Several factors influence the severity of withdrawal symptoms, such as the duration of use, the dose, individual physiology, and the presence of any co-occurring mental health or medical conditions.
Here are a few points to consider regarding Suboxone and heroin withdrawal:
Duration: Withdrawal symptoms from Suboxone may last longer than those from heroin. This is because buprenorphine, one of the components of Suboxone, has a longer half-life than heroin, meaning it stays in the system for a longer time. As a result, withdrawal symptoms might take longer to set in and can be more prolonged, although they might be less intense at their onset compared to heroin withdrawal.
Intensity: Heroin withdrawal symptoms can be very intense but tend to be of shorter duration. Some people might consider the acuteness of heroin withdrawal to be worse, while others might find the protracted, but less intense, withdrawal from Suboxone to be more challenging.
Medical Supervision: Suboxone should be taken under medical supervision, and ideally, cessation should also be medically supervised with a gradual tapering of the medication to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
It’s also important to note that the term “worse” can be subjective. For some, the intensity of the symptoms might define what is worse, while others might focus on the duration of the symptoms.
In either case, withdrawal from opioids, whether from heroin or Suboxone, should be managed under the care of a healthcare professional who can provide the necessary support and guidance to minimize withdrawal symptoms and address any complications that may arise. The ultimate goal is to safely help the individual overcome opioid dependence and move toward recovery.
Every individual is different and we experience everything differently. The way one-person experiences eating a banana may be a different experience for another. The same goes for using drugs and alcohol. The experience of smoking weed may feel and different from one person to another, therefore, having different experiences.
It is very difficult to explain how something feels if one hasn’t experienced it for themselves. Curiously is what a lot of us addicts lead us to try drugs in the first place. One of those drugs is a deadly and addictive stimulant known as methamphetamine.
How Dangerous is Methamphetamine?
One of the most dangerous and addictive drugs being used today is methamphetamine. According to The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), Methamphetamine is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Crystal methamphetamine is a form of the drug that looks like glass fragments or shiny, bluish-white rocks. It is chemically similar to amphetamine, a drug used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a sleep disorder.
Other common names for methamphetamine include blue, crystal, ice, meth, and speed. It can be smoked, taken orally, snorted and injected, which is the most dangerous and addictive because of the intense “high” it creates. But what is that intense high? Why is this so alluring? What does injecting Meth feel like?
These are the main feelings that may be experienced when abusing meth:
1) The Rush— When you first inject Meth you will feel a rush within seconds. During the rush, your heartbeat races and metabolism, blood pressure and pulse soar. The rush from Meth can last up to thirty minutes or so.
2) The High— After the rush, the user will feel the “high”. This is when you feel “on top of the world”, confident, you are the best of the best. You may become augmentative and maybe violent. The high can last four to sixteen hours.
3) The Binge— Binging takes place after the high where the user tries to maintain the high by injecting more methamphetamine uncontrollably. The binge can last three to fifteen days. During the binge, the addict becomes hyperactive both mentally and physically. Each time the user injects more of the drug, he experiences another but smaller rush until, finally, there is no rush and no high.
4) Tweaking — A methamphetamine addict is most dangerous when going through a phase of the addiction called “tweaking” This is when the addict can no longer get high or a rush from using Meth. This is wear delusions set in and the user can become very dangerous to themselves and others. The addict will be unable to sleep for days and the potential for self-mutilation is high.
5) The Crash — The user then crashes because of the overwhelming effects on the body from the drug. This is where the user sleeps for long periods of time. The crash can last one to three days.
6) Meth Hangover — After crashing the addict is in a deteriorated state, starved, dehydrated and utterly exhausted physically, mentally and emotionally. This usually lasts from two to fourteen days. This leads to enforced addiction, as the “solution” to these feelings is to take more meth.
7) Withdrawal — Often thirty to ninety days can pass after the last drug use before the user realizes that he is in withdrawal. First, you become depressed, lose energy and the ability to experience pleasure. Then the craving for more methamphetamine hits, and you may become suicidal. Since meth withdrawal is extremely painful and difficult, most abusers revert; thus, 93% of those in traditional treatment return to abusing methamphetamine.
We Are Here to Help with Meth Addiction
This doesn’t have to be the case; at Garden State Treatment Center we can turn those statistics around starting with you. Located in the heart of Northern New Jersey, Garden State Treatment Center is an outpatient and partial care addiction treatment facility that offers nuanced levels of care for individuals struggling with the horrors of substance abuse. It is our explicit goal to help addicted clients rebuild their lives from the inside out and reintegrate themselves back into society.
The most important thing you can expect from your Garden State Treatment Center Treatment experience is that you will emerge from it transformed, stable, and ready to begin a lifetime of recovery.
FAQ
What does Meth taste like?
The taste of meth can vary depending on the batch. This is because different forms of methamphetamine have different tastes. The most common taste is a bitter taste, which is often associated with snorting meth. This is because the powder form of the drug seems to carry a bitter smell. Another flavor often associated with methamphetamine is a chemical taste. This is because methamphetamine is made of chemicals and sometimes these chemicals can change the taste of the drug. Meth can be flavored in some cases. This is commonly seen with an increasingly popular form, pink meth. Methamphetamine is a dangerous drug and should not be used. If you or someone you know is using meth, please seek help from a professional.
What does meth feel like?
Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth, is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It’s generally used recreationally for the intense high it produces. Here are some of the effects users report:
Euphoria: Users often experience intense feelings of happiness and well-being, a rush or a “high”.
Increased Energy: Meth can give users a sudden boost of energy, making them hyperactive or restless.
Increased Alertness: Users often feel more alert, attentive, or focused, at least initially.
Decreased Appetite: Meth use can lead to a reduced desire to eat, which sometimes results in weight loss.
Increased Confidence: Some users report feeling more confident or powerful when under the influence of meth.
However, these effects are typically short-lived and can be followed by extremely negative and dangerous effects, including:
Anxiety and Paranoia: High doses of meth can cause extreme anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations.
Dependence and Addiction: Meth is highly addictive, and users can quickly develop a tolerance, leading to increased use and eventually, dependence and addiction.
Physical Health Problems: Long-term meth use can lead to severe health issues such as heart disease, stroke, dental problems (“meth mouth”), severe weight loss, and skin sores.
Mental Health Problems: Chronic meth use can also lead to significant psychological issues, including depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Dangerous Behavioral Changes: Meth use can lead to violent behavior, impulsivity, and risk-taking behaviors.
In short, while meth use might bring about short-term feelings of euphoria and increased energy, it has severe and damaging long-term effects. Its use is illegal, and help should be sought if you or someone you know is struggling with meth use. There are many resources available to provide support and treatment for meth addiction.
Those that recover from addiction know that it is not an easy feat to accomplish. People who are not addicts don’t understand why it is so hard to not become addicted. For those people, not picking up a drink or a drug may seem easy and uncomplicated.
There is one major factor that can contribute to addiction, and that’s your ego. For some people, their ego makes it very difficult to achieve lasting recovery. This can be hard to make sense of because many addicts have low self-esteem and self-worth issues, but the ego is completely different.
How Do You Define an Ego?
Ego is a person’s sense of self-esteem or self-importance. Notice the word “sense”. It is not the real ‘you’. Rather, your ego is what you believe you are. When an addict has an inflated ego, they think that the world revolves around them and they are better than everybody else. They believe in the idea that whatever happens, whether good or bad, it has to do with them in one way or another.
How Does the Ego Lead to Substance Abuse
When an addict has an inflated sense of ego, it can be one of the hardest obstacles to tackle when trying to get sober. In recovery, you are supposed to take suggestions, meet with other addicts in support groups, maybe go to therapy and go through the step and listen to your sponsor. Giving up your will and being humble is the last thing an addict with a big ego will do.
Having such a big ego and being full of pride, an addict may even think they don’t have a problem let alone take advice and help from others. They will devalue other’s opinions, and become critical of them. Ego simply makes you push people away and leaves you trapped in your own selfish desires with a closed mind.
As mentioned before, the ego can be a huge obstacle that can make it difficult to be successful in sobriety and it’s best to be aware of the following risks:
Complacency A big ego can make you feel complacent and bored. In turn, it can think that recovery isn’t for you or that it’s not working and while you are so concentrated on how “it’s not working” you miss chances of growth.
Obliviousness An inflated ego can make you oblivious and lose awareness of the happenings around you. When you are too busy thinking you are better than everyone else, you think nothing or nobody deserves your time. Obliviousness can also make you unaware of things or telltale signs of maybe things that may put your sobriety at risk.
Carelessness When an addict has a big ego, they tend to be careless and don’t put forth any effort into anything. Not even when they are making decisions even if it could result in making a mistake.
Alienation Having an inflated sense of ego during addiction recovery can make you distance yourself from people who you may think are less than you. When you alienate everyone around you, it results in no support or anyone that can be there for you in a time of need.
For addicts that may have a year or a significant amount of sobriety, having an inflated ego can take that away in seconds. You may feel you have accomplished all that you can and are feeling great. You may think you got this and can handle anything that comes your way. You then put no more effort into your sobriety and eventually forget the tools you learned and start the road to relapse.
We Are Here to Help with Your Addiction
Recovery is a lifestyle and must be worked on every day. Having so much pride can stop you from doing this. The only way this can be overcome is by replacing ego with humility. Humility is the exact opposite of ego. You think of others before yourself and there is a lot of ways that can be achieved; through prayer, meditation, and acts of kindness such as volunteering and many other ways.
At Garden State Treatment Center, our programs will have you on your way to a healthier you; physically, emotionally, and in every way. The most important takeaway you can expect from your treatment experience is that you will emerge from it transformed, stable, and ready to begin a lifetime of recovery.
FAQ
How does your ego affect substance abuse recovery?
The concept of ego can have various interpretations, but in the context of substance abuse recovery, it often refers to one’s sense of self, identity, and self-perception. The role of ego in substance abuse recovery can be significant, and it can both aid and hinder the recovery process. Here are some ways in which ego can impact substance abuse recovery:
Denial and Resistance: The ego can contribute to denial and resistance in the early stages of recovery. It may defend and protect one’s self-image, making it difficult to acknowledge and accept the presence of addiction or the need for help. Ego-driven resistance can hinder progress and delay seeking treatment.
Self-Justification and Rationalization: The ego may engage in self-justification and rationalization to protect one’s self-image and minimize the severity of substance abuse. It can create narratives or excuses to maintain the belief that substance use is under control or justified in some way, which can impede the motivation to change.
Fear of Change and Vulnerability: The ego may resist change, as change often involves stepping into the unknown and facing vulnerability. Recovery requires a willingness to challenge existing patterns and beliefs, which can be uncomfortable for the ego. Fear of losing one’s familiar identity or social connections can be barriers to seeking and maintaining recovery.
Rebuilding Self-Concept and Identity: Substance abuse can erode self-esteem and distort one’s self-concept. Recovery involves rebuilding a healthy self-identity separate from the influence of substances. The ego plays a crucial role in shaping and aligning one’s self-perception with the values and behaviors that support a sober and healthy lifestyle.
Humility and Self-Reflection: On the positive side, recovery often necessitates a shift from ego-driven behaviors to humility and self-reflection. This involves recognizing one’s vulnerabilities, acknowledging past mistakes, and embracing a willingness to learn and grow. Letting go of ego-driven defenses can open the door to self-discovery and personal transformation.
To support substance abuse recovery, it’s important to cultivate self-awareness, address ego-driven barriers, and engage in therapeutic processes that promote self-reflection, humility, and personal growth. This can involve various approaches such as counseling, support groups, mindfulness practices, and therapy modalities that target ego-related issues, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy. The goal is to foster a healthier self-concept and align behaviors with values that support lasting recovery.
How does the ego drive substance abuse?
The ego can play a role in driving substance abuse by influencing thoughts, behaviors, and motivations. Here are some ways in which the ego can contribute to substance abuse:
Desire for Pleasure and Gratification: The ego seeks pleasure and instant gratification. Substance abuse can provide temporary relief from emotional pain, stress, or discomfort. The ego may drive the pursuit of substances as a means to escape or numb difficult emotions, seeking immediate pleasure without considering the long-term consequences.
Self-Image and Social Identity: The ego is concerned with self-image and social identity. Substance abuse may be driven by the desire to fit in, be accepted, or project a particular image. The ego may engage in substance use as a way to conform to peer pressure, enhance social status, or gain a sense of belonging within a particular group or social context.
Defense Mechanisms and Coping Strategies: The ego employs defense mechanisms to protect the individual from unpleasant feelings or challenging situations. Substance abuse can serve as a coping mechanism or a way to avoid facing deeper underlying issues. The ego may use substances as a means of self-soothing, numbing emotional pain, or suppressing unresolved traumas or conflicts.
Ego Inflation and Grandiosity: Substance abuse can be driven by a sense of ego inflation and grandiosity. Some individuals may use substances to enhance feelings of power, confidence, or invincibility. The ego may seek to assert dominance, control, or an elevated sense of self through substance use.
Avoidance of Vulnerability and Fear: The ego may resist vulnerability and fear associated with emotional discomfort or personal growth. Substance abuse can be a way to avoid facing one’s inner struggles, insecurities, or fears. The ego may use substances as a shield to prevent genuine self-reflection or to maintain a false sense of control and invulnerability.
It’s important to note that while the ego can contribute to substance abuse, it is not the sole driving force. Addiction is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, underlying mental health conditions, and social influences. Addressing substance abuse requires a comprehensive approach that considers the individual’s physical, psychological, and social well-being, often involving professional help, therapy, and support networks.
Watching a loved one struggle with alcohol or drug addiction is one of the most painful experiences an individual can have. Addiction is a physically, emotionally, and psychologically devastating disease – and not just for the afflicted individual.
Close friends, family members, or significant others may watch their loved ones deteriorate and wonder WHY they can’t do anything to help. “If they really loved me, they would change.” The emotional torture of being completely and utterly helpless drives many loved ones to exacerbate a vicious cycle of enabling. While doing everything in your power to help your addicted loved one may seem to make sense at the time, things will not change until the addict hits rock bottom – and has nowhere else to go.
What is Enabling?
Essentially, enabling is the act of preventing an addict from hitting his or her personal bottom by coddling them and ‘supporting’ them in ways that are actually doing them harm. One of the most common forms of enabling is giving money to an active addict or alcoholic. If you are the parent of an individual who is battling substance dependency, offering financial support may seem like a no-brainer. Say, for example, your son – who has been struggling with heroin addiction – asks for $20 for food. “My child needs food in order to survive,” you might think to yourself. “I can’t stand by and watch him starve.” In reality, the likelihood that your son is going to spend that money on more heroin is exceptionally high.
Addiction is a disease of manipulation – those suffering will go to great lengths in order to get what they want (and what they want, in the vast majority of cases, is the next fix). While it can be easy to assume that your own child wouldn’t manipulate you, steal from you, or lie to your face, it is important to keep in mind just how insidious this disease is.
How To Say No to Giving Someone Money
Sadly, continuing to support your child financially is likely to exacerbate the illness, and – seeing as addiction is a progressive disease – it could ultimately lead to serious complications (such as overdose, or even death). Of course, saying ‘no’ will not come naturally, and setting boundaries can be difficult and painful.
For this reason, the families of addicts often choose to stage an intervention. What is an intervention? In so many words, an intervention allows the loved ones of the concerned individual to express their feelings while setting strict personal boundaries. It is absolutely crucial that interventions are organized and conducted by an experienced professional. If they are not, they may wind up doing more harm than good.
In most cases, the friends and family members of the subject of the intervention will write letters and read them in turn. These letters will explain how the symptoms of active addiction have affected them personally, and they will outline boundaries that the interventionist will help to maintain. One of the most common – and important – boundaries is that concerning money. “I will no longer give you money, no matter what you say it’s for. I am willing to help you go to treatment, but that’s the only financial support you’ll receive from me.” Once these boundaries have been established, it is important to seek the support you need in order to successfully maintain them.
Garden State Treatment Center
We at Garden State Treatment Center understand how difficult it can be to set and maintain a strict set of rules while you watch your loved one struggle. Fortunately, our team of experienced therapists, counselors, and addiction specialists are available to help. We will help you take the steps you need to get help for your loved one in a safe and effective way.
To Halt means to stop abruptly. The acronym for H.A.L.T., as many people in recovery know, means hungry, angry, lonely, and tired. For recovering addicts and alcoholics, this word is how they monitor their state of physical and mental well-being. Paying attention to whether you are hungry, angry, lonely, or tired is extremely useful to make the most of, especially when you are in a new recovery. Newly recovering addicts and alcoholics are experiencing a new way of life, which is challenging. They are learning how to adapt to being clean and sober, and that’s a drastic change.
The acronym HALT helps recovering addicts remember to take care of themselves. When people are drunk or high, the last thing they pay attention to is whether or not they are eating, sleeping, feeling angry, or lonely. In fact, it is these very feelings that cause addicts and alcoholics to use or drink. Therefore, learning to take notice of their physical and mental state is how addicts learn to take care of themselves.
It is Possible You Have Experienced HALT
Everyone has times when they are experiencing hunger, anger, loneliness, and tiredness. However, for people in recovery, these feelings can be dangerous. According to the medical researchers at The National Center for Biotechnology Information and their research on relapse prevention, an emotional relapse is the lack of self-care, which includes eating enough, sleeping enough, and talking about your emotions.
During an emotional relapse, individuals are not thinking about using. They remember their last relapse, and they don’t want to repeat it. But their emotions and behaviors are setting them up for relapse down the road…The common denominator of emotional relapse is poor self-care, in which self-care is broadly defined to include emotional, psychological, and physical care…A simple reminder of poor self-care is the acronym HALT: hungry, angry, lonely, and tired. (NCBI)
Therefore, people in recovery need to practice high levels of self-care to prevent relapse as well as feel better overall. For many people in recovery they are just learning about how much food, sleep, and emotional support they need to remain positive about their recovery, which lowers the desire to get high or drunk.
Hunger Can Lead to Bad Decisions
Feeling hungry causes a person to be easily confused and irritable. Experiencing confusion and irritability will lead to more upsetting emotions if hunger continues. Feeling hungry is often hard for people in recovery to recognize. Most addicts and alcoholics were able to go for days or more without eating. And for many addicts and alcoholics they also used drugs and alcohol as a way to manage their weight. Once a person has recovered their instincts to eat normally, we learn that nourishing ourselves properly requires attention. The problem is that recovery is a slow learning process, but with eating, there isn’t exactly the time to get it wrong.
If a person is not giving their body the fuel that it needs, they will not respond to life’s challenges properly. Addicts and alcoholics who are now sober must break their old habits of starvation. A sober mind needs food. It may seem quite basic to remember to eat, but for recovering alcoholics and addicts, this is a new way of existing. By providing the body with enough food throughout the day, a person’s hormones and stress levels remain closer to normal.
Anger from Experiencing HALT
Anger is a potent negative emotion that can be particularly challenging for individuals in addiction recovery. While it may seem like a straightforward expression of frustration or irritation, anger often masks deeper feelings of hurt, fear, or insecurity. For those in recovery, anger can serve as a coping mechanism, a way to protect oneself from confronting uncomfortable emotions or situations.
One crucial aspect often overlooked is how anger can stem from the experience of the H.A.L.T. acronym as halt stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. These basic needs, when unmet, can exacerbate emotional vulnerabilities, making individuals more prone to anger outbursts or you and loved ones, such as family member’s mental health. For instance, fluctuating blood sugar levels due to hunger can significantly impact mood regulation, potentially triggering anger responses. Therefore, it’s vital for individuals in recovery to maintain stable blood sugar levels through regular, nutritious meals.
Moreover, feelings of loneliness or isolation can intensify anger. In early recovery, when support networks might still be developing, individuals may feel especially vulnerable to these emotions. The absence of healthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use, can make managing anger even more challenging.
Addressing anger in addiction recovery requires a multifaceted approach. Developing self-awareness is crucial—recognizing the signs of escalating anger and understanding its underlying triggers can empower individuals to respond more effectively. Techniques like deep breathing exercises can help regulate emotions in the moment, providing a valuable tool for managing anger.
Seeking support from a sponsor counselor, or attending or check-in to support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or AA meetings (12-step meetings), addiction centers, or getting an addiction treatment from the treatment center and undergoing a rehab program can also be instrumental in navigating anger in recovery. These spaces offer opportunities for individuals to explore the root causes of their anger in a supportive environment, fostering healing and growth.
Additionally, maintaining healthy habits, such as eating healthy snacks and ensuring a good night’s sleep, is essential for managing anger. Fatigue can amplify irritability and diminish cognitive function, making individuals more susceptible to anger-inducing situations.
By acknowledging and addressing anger within the context of addiction recovery, individuals can cultivate healthier coping mechanisms and strengthen their emotional resilience. Through self-awareness, support, and the adoption of healthy habits, individuals can navigate their recovery journey with greater stability and success.
The Loneliness can be Damaging
Feeling lonely when a person is recovering from addiction and alcoholism is usually normal. Beginning a new lifestyle, far removed from the old drug and alcohol abuse atmosphere, causes a person to feel out of place and lonely. The good news is that there are more and more people in recovery every day, and they are there to support each other. It is important to recognize whether or not the loneliness is lasting longer than a day or two. If this is the case, the likelihood of depression is possible. Depression is common among many alcoholics and addicts who are in recovery. These people are getting help for their depression-like they are for their recovery.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Being well-rested and not tired is a good feeling for your body, mind, and soul. For newly recovering addicts and alcoholics, their ability to fall asleep is often challenging. Like many others in recovery, the time that it takes sot to adjust to sleeping normally does occur within about six months. When a person is not sleeping enough, they are out of it and usually resent other people because they are drained. It is perfectly acceptable to try natural sleep remedies when you are in a new recovery and beyond.The goal with HALT is to remind people in recovery to take care of themselves. Recovery is a lifestyle that requires effort and willingness to support it. By practicing HALT, people in recovery are protecting themselves from cravings, stress, worry, and fear. Being Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired causes poor reactions and experiences. For addicts and alcoholics in recovery, they need to do whatever it takes to make their life experiences more positive.
In a recently published New York Times article, Brad Pitt opened up about his personal struggles with alcoholism, as well as his time spent in Alcoholics Anonymous. In 2016, the actor split from his long-time wife, Angelina Jolie. The two were involved in a 12-year relationship and parented 6 children together. News of their split sent shockwaves through the nation, as almost everyone had come to consider the two stars one of the most solid and iconic couples in Hollywood.
As it turns out, the divorce (instigated by Angelina), was more a result of Brad’s ongoing struggles with alcoholism than anything else. Many news outlets reported that the final straw between the couple was an intense argument they had while on a private jet. While this very well may have been the case, it seems as though there was a bit more to the story.
The Beginning of a Career in Acting
Brad Pitt began his acting career in 1987 in the television series “21 Jumpstreet”. Since his career began, he has been in innumerable major motion pictures and even landed himself an Academy Word for production. There certainly is a stigma in the entertainment industry as far as drug addiction and alcoholism go – many stars, of all ages and professional backgrounds – have grappled with substance dependency.
The pressure of constantly being in the spotlight becomes too overwhelming, and celebrities turn to drugs and alcohol as a method of self-medication. Although he did not confirm how long his personal struggles with alcoholism lasted, he attributed Alcoholics Anonymous to help him get back on the right track, and ultimately commit to a life of sobriety.
Was Brad Pitt an Alcoholic?
In his interview with The New York Times, Pitt stated that AA was a “safe space where there was little judgment, and therefore little judgment of yourself.” He discussed some of the more dark times he had been through recently, and the impact AA had on his self-discovery. “The fact is, we all carry pain, grief, and loss,” he said. “We spend most of our time hiding it, but it’s there, it’s in you. So you open up those boxes.” He further noted, “It was actually really freeing just to expose the ugly sides of yourself. There’s great value in that.”
Since entering himself into Alcoholics Anonymous in 2016, and remaining actively immersed in the program for a year and a half, it seems as though Pitt has turned over a new leaf. He recently appeared in box office hit “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”, and is working hard to continue making reparations with his ex-wife and children.
Get the Help You Need
If you or someone you love has grappled with alcoholism, help is available. In more severe cases, inpatient treatment comes as a highly recommended first step, followed by immersion in an ongoing treatment program (such as Alcoholics Anonymous). Because substance dependency is such a personal battle, it is important to accurately determine which method of treatment is right for you. Our experienced clinicians are available to discuss treatment options at any time of day — please feel free to give us a call. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
The Calvin Klein drug is not a new synthetic compound, but instead is a deadly combination of cocaine and ketamine. It’s one of the latest trending club drugs that is causing many overdoses for young adults that take these substances to party harder. Already leaving a trail of destruction in its path, this drug mixture tragically took the life of a young violinist who was a musical prodigy. The young violinist died from an accidental overdose of the drug in London on Thursday, July 11th, 2019.
What’s the story behind the name of this deadly drug cocktail? This substance is being called the ‘Calvin Klein’ drug because it goes by the initials ‘CK,’ that reference the brand. The appealing name of the drug, taken from a worldwide fashion brand, adds to its dangerous marketing appeal for young adults looking for an edgy high. The fact that it’s a combination of a stimulant and hallucinogenic causes adverse reactions that are leading to overdoses.
When mixed together, cocaine and ketamine abuse can be life-threatening, causing increased heart rate, palpitations, and possible cardiac arrest. The death of a young musical prodigy because of taking the Calvin Klein club drug was covered by the New York Post, “Katya Tsukanova, 17, a leading musician in the UK, died of an apparent overdose from a cocaine and ketamine drug cocktail — just days after performing at the Royal Opera House in the city”. This news has prompted further investigation of how dangerous this drug is. Although more evidence is needed in how cocaine and ketamine combined affects a person’s brain, there is research on the two drugs separately.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIDA, classifies ketamine as a dissociative drug similar to hallucinogens. NIDA states that the reason people take dissociative drugs is to “enable them to enter into what they perceive as a more enlightened sense of thinking or being” (NIDA). Additionally, from NIDA, “Ketamine—also known as K, Special K, or cat Valium—is a dissociative currently used as an anesthetic for humans as well as animals. Much of the ketamine sold on the street has been diverted from veterinary offices. Although it is manufactured as an injectable liquid, ketamine is generally evaporated to form a powder that is snorted or compressed into pills for illicit use…” (NIDA).
Is the new club drug called Calvin Klein dangerous?
Cocaine is considered a stimulant drug, and when added to ketamine, likely increases the effect of the Ketamine. Historically, cocaine has been mixed with many other drugs to enhance their effects. It is commonly mixed with heroin, methamphetamine, and alcohol. Tsukanova was a victim of the lethal effects of both drugs. The New York Post reported that her father, Igor Tsukanova, said his daughter was a “smart girl, and she made one bad choice.” (NY Post).
The CK drug is a popular club drug, and like other club drugs, may continue to take lives as it continues to be sold. The DEA currently does not acknowledge the drug cocktail CK as a specific drug type but does reference cocaine and ketamine in their drug schedules. The DEA classifies drugs according to how dangerous they are:
“Drugs, substances, and certain chemicals used to make drugs are classified into five (5) distinct categories or schedules depending upon the drug’s acceptable medical use and the drug’s abuse or dependency potential… the abuse rate is a determinate factor in the scheduling of the drug; for example, Schedule I drugs have a high potential for abuse and the potential to create severe psychological and physical dependence.” (DEA).
Currently, Cocaine is listed with the DEA as a schedule II drug and Ketamine a schedule III.
The fact that a young violinist died accidentally from the mixture of cocaine and ketamine is tragic. Although most experiences with dangerous drugs do not end well, cases like this are very saddening and force us to examine what our younger generations are doing when they get together. Becoming involved and educated about the types of drugs that are available in clubs and on the street is a starting point. Additionally, adults must look for warning signs and behaviors that indicate drug use and abuse, as well as supporting laws that will limit the accessibility of these drugs to be bought over the web and by illegal prescription as in the case of ketamine.
If you or a loved one are affected by addiction, Garden State Treatment Center is here to help. Our solution-focused addiction treatment programs get to the underlying causes of substance abuse. We provide personalized treatment plans that are tailored to the unique situation of each patient. Contact us around the clock for confidential help and don’t delay in reaching out.
Addiction is a condition with far-reaching consequences. Families are torn apart, and trust is often broken. Not only the addicted individual but also friends and family suffer because of the actions of those struggling. The good news is that many addicts have been able to turn their lives around and begin a life of recovery.
If you or a loved one are faced with addiction, know that there is hope beyond the dark tunnel. It all comes from making the right decisions and sticking with them regardless of the difficulties that come along in the journey. The following addiction recovery quotes have inspired many to reach out for much-needed treatment. Hopefully, it will help you do the same.
The best idea and the best expression of it amount to nothing without action to back them up. – Unknown
Wishing for recovery isn’t enough. No matter how good your intentions are, they amount to nothing if you fail to take the necessary steps to make them happen. Take the first step by accepting help from an addiction treatment program.
Recovery is hard. Regret is harder. – Brittany Burgunder
You may experience painful withdrawal symptoms and relapse while in recovery. However, they are nothing compared to the regret you will feel for not seeking help sooner.
One small step is worth more than a thousand steps planned. – Unknown
Don’t keep delaying the act of asking for help. Finding the courage to speak with an addiction professional may be the first most significant step on your journey to recovery.
Believe you can and you are halfway there. – Theodore Roosevelt
You have to trust that full recovery is possible for you. With the right mindset, you can overcome the worst of addiction.
Great acts are made up of small deeds. – Lao Tzu
Successfully breaking free from addiction requires taking it one step at a time. You don’t have to get it right immediately.
Courage isn’t having the strength to go on – it is going on when you don’t have strength. – Napoléon Bonaparte
Even at your lowest point of discouragement, you can still find the strength to overcome substance abuse as long as you take actionable steps to achieve this goal.
Take time to deliberate; but when the time for action arrives, stop thinking and go in. – Napoleon Bonaparte
It is essential that you carefully plan your recovery program with family, friends, and therapists. However, no good can be accomplished unless you show up for your appointments and counseling sessions.
A man would do nothing if he waited until he could do it so well that no one could find fault. – John Henry Newman
Fear of failure often holds people back from taking action at the right time. Failing is a good thing because it allows you to learn from your mistakes. It allows for improvements over your past actions. Do not let fear of relapse prevent you from entering the world of recovery.
Don’t let the past steal your present. – Terri Guillemets
The past is not always an indication of your future. Do not engross yourself in grief and shame over past deeds. Forgive yourself and move on.
He conquers who endures. – Persius
The path to recovery isn’t a sprint; instead, it is an endurance race with many hurdles to overcome. You must be prepared to face the many challenges associated with your recovery program.
People become attached to their burdens sometimes more than the burdens are attached to them. – George Bernard Shaw
You must forgive yourself and leave the guilt and shame behind you. Don’t go about carrying your past mistakes as a burden on your shoulders. Make the necessary amends and push forward.
Experience is not what happens to you, it is what you do with what happens to you. – Aldous Huxley
Even if you have experienced several relapses, the struggle is not over yet. It is helpful to learn why, where, and how they occurred never happen again.
My life has been full of terrible misfortunes most of which never happened. – Michel de Montaigne
Sometimes our greatest fears are only in our imagination, which tends to hold us back. Reality isn’t always as bad as we expect it to be.
Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail. – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Mistakes are bound to happen. Everyone makes them. Every time you experience a relapse, tell yourself it is not over yet. Pick yourself up and try one more time.
Even in the midst of devastation, something within us always points the way to freedom. – Sharon Salzberg
No matter how far gone you are on the path of addiction; there is always an inner voice telling you to find relief by changing your habits. You were not born to be enslaved by drugs or alcohol.
Inspire Yourself With Addiction Recovery Quotes
Breaking free from alcohol and drug abuse is not an attempt at achieving the impossible. It is the direct opposite. Millions of people have successfully reclaimed their lives after a long downward spiral on the destructive path of substance abuse. We hope that these motivational addiction recovery quotes will give you the courage to begin your journey towards lasting recovery.
If you are already under the guidance and support of professional help, we sincerely encourage these addiction recovery quotes to reinforce your determination to stay in recovery and experience the happiness that comes from living a life of sobriety once again. As one of the premier addiction rehab centers in the country, Garden State Treatment Center is available to assist you every step of the way.
