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Do I Need Help With My Recovery?

Recovering from addiction or substance abuse can be daunting if you’re trying to get sober. Most addicts seeking sobriety begin their journey with either Alcoholics (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Some try one-on-one therapy instead. For those who realize they need a stronger support system, inpatient treatment might be a better alternative to AA or NA. Inpatient treatment makes use of recovery meetings, individual and group therapy, and the support of those recovering around you. The following are just some of the benefits of having support when recovering from addiction:

  • Long-term support: The longer someone stays in treatment, the more positive their results are likely to be. In fact, The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends a program of at least 90 days for inpatient treatment. Studies have shown that those who get long-term help are more likely to remain sober 3 years longer than those who don’t.
  • Follow-up care: As is true with any disease or disorder, follow-up care and monitoring is important when you are recovering from an addiction. Inpatient treatment provides you with a large network of people to reach out to when recovery becomes difficult. Participating in intensive outpatient and sober living programs allows you more follow-up support during recovery.
  • More treatment options: What works for one person won’t work for everyone, different things work for different people. Trying different recovery activities can help identify the recovery regimen that best fits you.
  • Detox support: Self-detoxing is not only risky, it can also be life-threatening. Due to dangers like hallucinations, seizures, and panic attacks, it is recommended to get professional help when attempting to come off drugs or alcohol.
  • Community support: Many treatment programs will help you find a job, go back to school, and even find housing when you’re ready. This support can be incredibly helpful during a period of intense change.

The strong system provided by long-term support service can help you stay sober longer than attempting recovery by yourself. Rather than try to recover on your own, reach out to professionals who can help you find the right kind of facility or program that fits your needs.

Need more information about recovery options? Let our team of Chico behavioral health professionals help you. Contact us today.

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How Do We Overcome the Stigma of Mental Illness?

Although mental illness is a common condition among Americans, the stigma surrounding the issue can sometimes make accepting a diagnosis or treatment difficult for some people. Many are skeptical of prescribed meds and often question whether or not there might be an underlying issue or cause to their disorder. For alcoholics and drug users, a “co-occurring disorder” may exist. A co-occurring disorder is a separate issue that may add to the symptoms of another disorder or disease. Often, alcoholics and drug addicts self-medicate with drugs or alcohol as a way to treat the symptoms of a different disorder, like anxiety or depression. Unfortunately, many addicts and alcoholics suffer from some form of mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, or depression.

Am I Mentally Ill?

Mental illness is any disorder that affects your thoughts, mood, or behavior. Similar to physical illness, mental illness can be hereditary or come from environmental factors like abuse or neglect. Anxiety and depression are two of the most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses. Being diagnosed with a mental illness may be shocking or even seem like a mistake. However, being open to and accepting the doctor’s diagnosis is an important step in overcoming the stigma of mental health.

Accept the Diagnoses

Be honest when you meet with your doctor. Being diagnosed with a mental illness is not the end of the world. Many famous artists, musicians, and public figures have suffered from various forms of mental illness. Similar to overcoming an addiction, the first step in treating a mental illness is to accept the diagnosis.

Educate Others About Mental Illness

Talking about the reality of mental illness is perhaps the most important step you can take to help others overcome the many stigmas surrounding it. With millions of Americans suffering from mental illness, conversations about medication management and alternative treatment options are vital. Open discussions can help society at large better understand that mental illness is not a “dark” diagnosis. Many other people who have gone through similar experiences and have shown that you don’t have to go through the diagnosis alone.

Want to learn more about overcoming mental illness? Contact a Chico Mental Health professional today. Therapeutic Solutions is here to help you live a healthy and balanced life!