relapse

Relapse Can be an Opportunity

December 17, 2017 // by Aton Center

Relapse can be a really discouraging experience. Maybe you came into treatment for the first time, thought you had it, and then…. It was much harder than you thought. Maybe life put unexpected triggers your way. Or maybe you weren’t so sure about this whole sobriety thing to begin with.

Maybe you thought you could moderate, or you weren’t sure life was worth it sober, and then things got as bad (or worse) than they were before treatment. While I wouldn’t go so far as to say relapse has to be part of recovery, sometimes relapse provides an opportunity to learn something essential. Some people become humbled, and can take a look at their sobriety with new eyes. Sometimes it means learning triggers, or getting in touch with an underlying issues. Other times it is a sign that commitment needs to be sustained and not lost, and relapse warning signs heeded. But there are a number of things that do NOT help in relapse.

What does not help is toxic shame. What does not help is beating yourself up. What does not help is blaming others for your decisions, or throwing your hands up in the air in defeat. All these things just add fuel to the fire.

If you have a relapse, the best thing to do is focus on getting professional and appropriate help (possibly including residential treatment), take some time for yourself to recover, and open yourself to the whole process again as if you were experiencing it for the first time.

Kirsten Helgager, Psy.D.
Clinical Psychologist
AToN Center 888-535-1516

Addiction Recovery: When the Cure Seems Worse than the Disease

October 27, 2017 // by Aton Center

If you’re scared of going to rehab, you’re not alone. Fear of jumping into a sobriety program can be paralyzing for those who have relied on drugs and alcohol for months or even years. Many of our clients face mixed feelings about recovery: they can’t wait to be sober, but they can’t stop obsessing about their next fix.

At our luxury San Diego drug treatment facility, our personalized, integrated treatment model helps clients manage symptoms, overcome trauma, and return to a life filled with joy and purpose. The journey to sobriety takes work, but the destination is well worth the sacrifice.

3 Common Addiction Recovery Fears

Fear of Detox. Chemically dependent people know what withdrawal feels like, and that feeling alone may keep them out of rehab. Complicating this fear is the worry that they won’t be able to handle life without drugs. At AToN Center, we understand that each individual’s journey is different—and that includes detox. When you are placed on a detox protocol, we observe you closely and provide a safe, comfortable detoxification process.

At AToN, our detox process involves managing symptoms with holistic therapies, providing healthy distractions, extending compassion, and administering ‘comfort medications’ as needed. Our team walks beside you as we facilitate withdrawal from alcohol, opiates, or benzodiazepines. When medical professionals handle detox, clients are able to make an expedited, successful move toward active recovery.

Fear of Group Therapy. Group therapy is one of the most rewarding parts of addiction recovery. Interacting with others who find themselves in the same situation, therapy participants learn that they are not alone in their addiction battle. But many clients are hesitant to participate in group therapy, whether it is out of shame and embarrassment or social fear. Participants feel as if they must share their most intimate secrets with a group of strangers, but this is not the case. When you are unable to share a feeling or experience with other group members, there are opportunities to address them during individual therapy sessions. Over time, most of our guests begin to welcome group time as an opportunity to bond with and support one another during their sobriety journey.

Fear of Sobriety. Whether you have completed your recovery program or are just beginning, you may wonder if life will be boring when you’re sober. You may wonder what BBQs and parties will be like without your favorite chemical, or how you will relax enough to socialize. However, as you regain your energy and learn to channel that energy toward healthy habits and hobbies, you’ll discover the rewards of being “fully present” for your relationships and experiences.

Conquer Your Fear of Addiction Recovery

The best way to address your recovery fears is to face them head on. AToN Center is a sanctuary staffed by credentialed addiction specialists offering best-practice addiction treatment methods that capture the needs of individual clients. Caring for the mind and body by offering nutritious, organic cuisine and holistic services like acupuncture, massage, yoga, and personal training, our luxury rehab equips residents with the tools they need to establish balance and combat relapse.

Call 888.535.1516 today, or submit a confidential online inquiry. Our team will be in touch promptly!

Relapse is a Process – Not an Event

July 18, 2017 // by Aton Center

What does that mean to you? To me, it means that relapse doesn’t “just happen.” There are warning signs along they way – large and small. This is why our residents are rigorously educated to be able to identify their warning signs along the way. It may be surprising to you that many people experience relapse warning signs even while in treatment! Some clinicians will separate the process into three stages – emotional relapse, mental relapse and physical relapse. Life happens. When life is barreling toward us and we feel hopeless and helpless, we may be heading toward an emotional relapse.

This generally means that even if you aren’t thinking about relapse, the exhaustion from managing life’s stressors may be wearing you down. This is one reason why the support of others is so important – seeking a lending hand or a listening ear can keep you from moving into the stage of mental relapse. In this stage, you may have had fleeting thoughts about using “just once.” You might be thinking about when you used last, or even glamorizing your past use. In this stage, it is important to tell someone!

Many residents at the AToN Center have shared that talking about those thoughts have really helped them. Playing the tape through, writing a Cost Benefit Analysis (see the SMART Recovery Workbook), or going to meetings are also great options. Without some sort of intervention, it often does not take too long before you may begin planning a relapse. At this point, it is not too late to stop! However, individuals tend to be more successful in recovery when they take strong action in stages one and two.

Many will say, “once I want to relapse, nothing is going to stop me!” It is also important to remember, if you do slip (or relapse), you STILL can stop! Don’t let one mistake turn into two, and so on.

What are your relapse warning signs? What coping strategies do you use that have helped you?

Dr. Cassandra Cannon
Clinical Director
Licensed Psychologist

AToN Center 888-535-1516

June 2, 2017 // by Aton Center

Relapse is something that not all in recovery face, but many do. There are ways to look at relapse that are harmful and some that are beneficial. At AToN Center we try to look at relapse from a perspective that can be not only helpful to the resident that had experienced a relapse but others as well. To explore a relapse and really use all of the information for good, to learn and grow from the experience, to share with others, and possibly learn to prevent future relapses can be a healing process.

This is a way of looking back and not regretting the past but seeing it all as useful, helpful, and part of the journey of recovery. I thoroughly enjoy teaching this way of viewing life, allowing the shame to melt away and bring joy where there once was pain. I am blessed to be a part of a team that gives opportunity for new life and new ways of seeing the life we have.

Kristin Colton, CATC II
CD Counselor
AToN Center 888-535-1516

The Risk of Relapse After Surgeries or Injuries

May 4, 2017 // by Aton Center

As a clinician and person in long-term recovery from alcohol and drug addiction, I have witnessed people relapse after having surgery or sustaining physical injuries. The use of narcotic medications necessary in these situations often brings back “the obsession” or “craving” to return to active addiction. Even taking a narcotic medication as prescribed can be enough to awaken the sleeping giant of our addiction. Often it is not possible to treat certain medical conditions without the use of narcotics- specifically opiates and benzodiazepines, so what is the responsible way a recovering addict can manage a surgery or physical injury?

This is one clinicians experience in managing this condition safely:

Be sure that the MD knows your full addiction history. Many people have the false belief that an MD will refuse to prescribe narcotics to a person in recovery- this is untrue. MD’s have an ethical obligation to treat the patient’s pain level and cannot do so unless they know how the patient has previously tolerated narcotics.
Ask MD to write out prescription that specifies clear times and dosages of medications as opposed to being prescribed on an “as needed” or PRN basis. Ask for further teaching and discharge planning from the MD when returning home after surgery. This can eliminate any gray areas where taking more than the recommended dosage of the medication could occur. Be sure to have a scheduled taper to discontinue the medication at an agreed upon timeframe.
Consider allowing a loved one to hold and administer the narcotic medications. This can eliminate anxiety and ensure that the medication is taken exactly as prescribed.
Don’t be afraid of utilizing Holistic Methods of pain and anxiety reduction such as acupuncture, massage, hypnotherapy and any other method of self- care approved by the treating MD.
Discuss Relapse Warning Signs and give loved ones permission to “call you out” if your behaviors are looking suspect.
Utilize the aid of a trusted therapist, sponsor, nurse and any other social recovery support system.

Life happens and so does physical pain. We don’t get sober to be miserable. We are the only ones who know how much physical pain we are in. It is possible to treat severe pain effectively, although the use of narcotic medications can be inherently dangerous to a recovering addict.

Talk to your family and MD about the best options for pain management – be honest and stay safe!

AToN Center 888-535-1516

Substances, Emotions, and Relapse

February 17, 2017 // by Aton Center

Despite the numerous negative consequences people continue to engage in addictive behaviors. They drink and take pills even when they have problems with their families, friends, employers, probably even with their pets. So why would such damaging behavior continue?

The short answer is that the substances temporally alleviate pain. The problem with this “relief” is that it is short lived and leaves a person with the desire to get back to that fix as quickly as it wears off. The use often covers up deeper emotions that many would rather just avoid, rather than confront.

When working with residents at the AToN Center, as they let go of their substances of abuse and the physical effects start to wear off, they have a difficult issue to face. They start to feel again. This is nearly always initially overwhelming as there is often a back log of feelings to be felt. The good news though is that once the chemical barriers have been removed a person then can access these emotions and can learn healthier ways to process and express them. This storm can be at times difficult to weather but with openness and honesty, it will pass and you will know what your emotional needs and how to get them met.

The Relapse. Frequently those with addictions struggle through a relapse. This term refers to a person having made attempts, formally or informally, to finally quit using substances, but despite their best efforts they find themselves falling back into their old patterns of addictive behaviors. Here at the AToN Center we are very serious about working to prevent the relapse and at the same time accepting that if a relapse happens this is the time to redouble efforts and quickly return back to where the sobriety left off. However, when some people relapse they have thoughts that interfere with them getting back to treatment or support. They start thinking “I’ll never stay sober” or “My friends just won’t understand” or “I’m just so stupid that I didn’t get this.”

A person can learn how, at the same exact time, take ownership for a mistake and also believe in their potential for progress. This blends humility and hope. With this spirit a person can acknowledge their mistakes but not fall so deep into shame that they forget their prior progress and potential for recovery. Try saying instead “I’m upset about this relapse but I’m going to get some help and assistance right now.”

Dr. Chad K. Cox PsyD
Licensed Psychologist
AToN Center 888-535-1516

Relapse Prevention Techniques

February 6, 2016 // by Aton Center

At AToN Center we work on looking for many different types of coping skills and how one can prevent a relapse.

Prevention is one of the most difficult arenas in addiction treatment as most people say that when they had a lapse/relapse in the past that they did not “think” at all. We introduce ideas and new ways to become more aware of what is going on prior to use.

Here are some techniques that are helpful:

Distraction: Think about something else. Call someone. Work out. Hobbies. Go for a walk. Go to a meeting. Acknowledge the urge without giving in to it.

Direct Coping: CBA, thought records, journaling, researching your problem, rehearsing how to solve the problem, having an assertive conversation, reading recovery literature.

Waiting: Sometimes, waiting 20 or 30 minutes before taking any potentially negative actions can make all of the difference in the world. Practicing mindfulness, urge surfing or try to stay busy, distract yourself and allow cravings to pass – they will and they do.

Recognizing: Knowing beforehand what the triggers can be will go a long way toward helping the addict prepare beforehand for such urges, cravings and situations.

Network: Having a network or list of trusted friends, loved ones, sponsors and others who will be there to provide support and reason in a moment of potential relapse is one of the strongest ways one can arm his or herself against relapse.

Relax: Breathing exercises and other relapse prevention techniques go a long way in strongly fighting the natural urges most experience on the road to recovery.

Being Realistic: Many people get overwhelmed when they think about being sober or abstinent forever. Forever is a long time! It is exponentially easier to think about being sober or abstinent for today. And today only. Think in easy-to-manage blocks of time as opposed to black and white “forevers” and “nevers.”

Kristin Colton CATC II
Chemical Dependency Counselor
AToN Center 888-535-1516

Warning Signs of an Impending Relapse – Thinking about the Past

January 18, 2016 // by Aton Center

Most drug rehab treatment and recovery programs focus on making good changes in a person’s life. They aim to get that person out of their old habits, away from their environment and into a new happy and healthy outlook on life.

However, when a person stops focusing on recovery or begins fantasizing about the days when they were using, this is when relapses may occur.

Sign 1: Romanticizing Past Drug Use

It can be easy to remember only the good times when you were using – the times when you were partying and having fun.

But remember, you got sober for a reason. At some point, drug or alcohol use was no longer fun. In fact, it probably created a lot of harm to your health, personal life, professional life, financial situation and perhaps even saddled you with legal issues.

What to Do:

Make a list of the things that make you happy in your sober life. This will help to foster an appreciation for your drug-free life and remind you why you entered treatment in the first place.

Sign 2: Believing You Can Use Again Without Falling Back Into Addiction

While recovering, you may be compelled to use recreationally. For example, by having “just one drink,” you might think you can prove that you’ve beaten your addiction. Those strong in recovery understand that just one time is bound to become many more times and lead you back to the place you worked so hard to leave behind.

What to Do:

Remember how far you’ve come. Understand that compulsion is a part of the chronic condition you’re suffering from. It is useful to use coping self-talk during this time to remind yourself, “I don’t need to use.”

You can also use a distraction strategy taught in cognitive behavioral therapy, in which you participate in a recreational activity to take your mind off the craving.

Distractions From Cravings:

Go for a bike ride
Read a good book
Watch a movie
Play a sport
Hang out with a sober friend

Sign 3: Starting to Reconnect With Old Friends From Your Addiction Days

It’s normal to miss your friends. But putting yourself back into an environment in which you used regularly is too tempting for most people struggling with a substance use disorder. Relapse prevention relies on new healthy environments that promote sobriety.

What to Do:

Identify and avoid tempting and negative environments in which drug use is prominent. If you find yourself wanting to reconnect with old friends, try to schedule social activities with a group of sober friends.

If you’re struggling to find a group of drug and alcohol-free friends, consider attending a 12 step meeting or joining a support group, such as SMART Recovery. These supportive environments are both encouraging and empowering. They are designed to make you feel comfortable sharing your experiences.

Signs of relapse below are indicators that something might be wrong and should propel you to get support for yourself or your loved one right away. 888-535-1516

Preparing for the Holiday Season

August 29, 2013 // by Aton Center

Preparing for the Holiday Season, Staying Sober

With the holidays approaching there may be many emotions surfacing for those in recovery and families as well. Often people in treatment or recovery from addictions are flooded with anxiety, stress, self doubt, and loneliness when thinking of upcoming holidays.

There may be many emotions and memories that trigger urges and cravings to use again. It is a good idea to think ahead and plan for these emotions and situations around the holiday gatherings.

Some tips for enjoying holidays and learning how to create new traditions and experiences in recovery are as follows:

Good Self-Care is Vital.
Enhance Your Support System.
Find New Ways to Celebrate.
Focus on Your Recovery Program.
Release your Resentments.
Bring a Buddy.
“Bookends” are Important.
Get in Touch with Spirituality.

Kristin Colton CATC-II
Addiction Treatment Counselor, San Diego
AToN Center 888-535-1516

It’s Not Too Late

July 17, 2013 // by Aton Center

AToN Center grieves the loss of yet another life as a result of an ongoing battle with addiction. Actor Cory Monteith died from a lethal combination of heroin and alcohol, it was revealed on Monday. The Glee actor, who was found dead in his hotel room on Saturday at the age of 31, died from a ‘mixed drug toxicity, involving heroin and alcohol, according to authorities.

We are reminded all too often that the battle with addiction can lead to death when left untreated, or when a relapse occurs. It is imperative that both treatment providers, as well as friends and family involved with those who are fighting this battle, communicate the seriousness of what our loved ones are facing. AToN Center staff continue to remind our alumni about the importance of participating in consistent aftercare support, along with community support meetings, outpatient treatment, and when indicated sober living.

Please take comfort in knowing that you are not alone in your journey, and that whether you’ve completed treatment and are sober, or are still in your addiction, it is never too late…until it’s too late. We encourage you to reach out to trusted loved ones, as well as treatment professionals, in order to ensure you receive the attention you deserve!

Jessica Yaffa
Director of Referral
AToN Center 888-535-1516

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