Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) are state-run databases that track the dispensing of certain medications prescribed within that state, focusing primarily on prescription drugs that have the potential for abuse and addiction. While most of the data comes from pharmacies, a small percentage comes from physicians who dispense these medications directly. Currently in use by 49 states (Missouri being the lone exception), PDMPs have proven to be an effective and popular tool in the fight against prescription drug addiction.

The History of PDMPs

To fully understand the benefits of PDMPs as they are used today, it is helpful to look back at their history. California was the first state to develop a PDMP, in 1939. Back then, PDMPs were seen primarily as serving a public-safety function, allowing law enforcement officials to track when and where certain drugs were being overprescribed or diverted for illegal activity. In the next half of the 20th century, however, society began to see drug addiction in a new light. Addiction became an issue of public health, not just one of public safety—a disease to be treated rather than a crime to be punished. With this changing cultural understanding of addiction, the goal of PDMPs changed in turn.

PDMPs Today

While PDMPs today continue to help law enforcement in the battle against “pill mills,” “doctor shopping”, and illegal overprescribing, their purpose has expanded dramatically to serve more of a public-health function. We can see this in part by looking at where most state PDMPs are housed. Currently only a handful of PDMPs are run by state agencies devoted to law enforcement and public safety, with the rest governed instead by state health departments and boards of pharmacy. Moreover, a number of states have expanded access to PDMPs so that recovery programs and addiction treatment specialists—not just law enforcement, pharmacies, and doctors—can use the data.

These changes suggest that states are increasingly using PDMPs to get help to sufferers of addiction before the law has to step in. But are PDMPs really working, and if so, what are the benefits?

Benefits in Action

Although the effectiveness of PDMPs is still very much an object of ongoing research, numerous studies have shown that the programs have strong and certain benefits. For example, a 2012 study looked at rates of painkiller abuse and misuse in states with and without PDMPs in the years 2003-2009. The researchers found that in states without PDMPs, rates of abuse and misuse increased more rapidly than in states with such programs.

Another study found that having access to PDMP data made it easier for doctors to determine objectively and conclusively whether patients who showed signs of addiction during in-person examinations were actually at risk. For example, one of the more common reported uses of PDMPs was in allowing a patient’s primary care physician to tell whether the patient had begun, in secret, to seek out prescriptions from other doctors with whom the primary care provider otherwise had no contact.

Kickstarting Recovery

Given that one of the most difficult steps toward recovery is admitting to others that one is suffering from addiction in the first place, this is likely the greatest benefit of PDMPs: giving the doctor, pharmacist, or treatment specialist a way of discovering the addiction without the patient him- or herself having to first come forward. In the most extreme cases, where the patient would otherwise never reveal their substance abuse, PDMP data may be precisely what is needed to refer them to a treatment center and kickstart that crucial first step toward recovery.

For more information about how PDMP data could help your loved one’s physician get them on the road to recovery, contact us today at DrugRehab.org for more information.

Community Reinforcement Approach

Many are familiar with programs using a 12-step system or support groups for treating someone suffering from substance abuse, but sometimes, the first hurdle is getting the dependent to actually agree to go.

CRAFT – A Community Reinforcement Approach

There are various groups and methods meant to support those who do not suffer from addiction, but deal with someone who does. Some of these groups advocate distancing yourself as much as possible from the effects and behaviors of the person dealing with addiction, rather than exhaust time on ineffective attempts at convincing them they need help. On the opposite end of the spectrum, methods use aggressive interventions where family and friends of a dependent, confront them directly and try to convince them to commit to rehabilitation on the spot.

Community Reinforcement And Family Training (CRAFT) is a lesser known, but very effective method of getting someone suffering from addiction to seek help. The basic theory behind the method goes back as far as the 70s but was approached somewhat informally in 80s. Current methods involving therapists specifically trained in CRAFT, to guide Caring Significant Others (CSOs) was developed in the 1990s.

CRAFT is designed to help those who suffer from addiction ease into treatment with gradual lifestyle changes and adapting to these changes. It can be difficult to treat people who are not self-motivated, but through positive reinforcement of good behaviors, the CRAFT process is designed to help people open up to change, and embrace the idea of starting therapy.

Stressing Positive Reinforcement Rather Than Punishment

Those who suffer from addiction are familiar to suffering. No matter whether they hurt themselves, hurt others, lose jobs, divorce, go broke – none of it motivates the dependent to stop the addiction. Punishment just doesn’t work because they’re used to it.

The point of CRAFT is to eliminate negative punishment for their substance abuse, and instead enhance positive reinforcement for actions that lead toward sobriety. The intention is to help the dependent realize for themselves, that abstinence is more rewarding than using. They are allowed to suffer the negative consequences of their addiction, while at the same time helping them realize how rewarding it is to not take part in addictive behaviors.

By helping the dependent to them see that they can take action to help themselves, this makes them feel powerful in their recovery efforts. Approaching them with empathy and guidance rather than post-behavioral punishment, this allows them to recognize the advantages of good behavior versus bad behavior, like abusing drugs or alcohol. Praise for even the most simple accomplishments keeps them approaching success and keeps them enthusiastic about the process.

How Does The CRAFT Method Work?

Most people suffering from addiction say that they are influenced most by family and friends. Often, it’s negative influences that got them to become addicted in the first place, so it makes sense that CSOs would have the most impact on getting them to stop.

The CRAFT method involves engaging the dependent in a conversational style, rather than lecturing style. The CSOs are guided through techniques by a counselor trained in the CRAFT method:

1. Identify motivators – Observe and communicate behaviors the dependent exhibits that are rewarding to them and do not involve drugs or alcohol. At the same time, help them identify ways their abuse has hurt themselves and others.
2. Set goals for sobriety – Rather than overwhelm them with long-term goals, guide them through a series of short steps that keep them going in a positive direction, and let them take part in setting these goals. By giving them input and choices on how to move forward, this helps them realize they can take active part in their success.
3. Identify drinking triggers/patterns – Figure out what occurs in their lives that makes using drugs or alcohol, their first go-to. By figuring out what “sets them off”, you can help them redirect what they do to assuage the situation from using to something more productive.
4. Choose ways to have positive experiences that don’t involve drinking – Part of this facilitating access to activities that don’t involve using or lessening barriers to therapy. It starts with working with them to determine things they can do and places they can go to positive effect such as avoiding bars or people who use drugs. But it may include assisting their access to positive people, places and activities through providing them phones, transportation, a job, etc.
5. Practice new behaviors – Interact with them in ways that they can see how participating in new behaviors enhances their lives free from substance abuse. This can include role playing where you show the person what to do should a given situation arise.
6. Get significant others involved – CSOs are taught communication tools, how to avoid non-productive involvement such as enabling, and how to avoid conflict. They are counseled on how to increase positive reinforcement when the abuser exhibits improvement, or withdraw when the abuser exhibits addictive behavior.

Efficacy Of And Further Benefits Of The CRAFT Method

Studies show that when the CRAFT method is employed, there is 2-3 times more engagement from the dependent in taking steps toward recovery. Seven out of ten proceed to attend treatment.

Treatment can begin very quickly, and there is generally no wait time. Once a counselor trained in the CRAFT method, is notified that someone is open to the process, they often will make themselves available immediately. They know the importance of leaping on the enthusiasm of the person who needs help so as to not allow their openness to the process to fade. The earlier the process is initiated, the better it works.

CRAFT is very effective on an outpatient basis. It can be combined with other types of therapy such as counseling, or deterrent medications such as Antabuse.

CRAFT is also very beneficial to CSOs. The person seeking the help in the first place is usually someone who loves or cares for the person suffering from addiction. Going through a process that stresses positivity, and increasingly results in more and more positive behavior, there is a great relief both physically and emotionally to those who have suffered so directly from the dependent’s negative behaviors.

The approach is very flexible. It has shown to be successful with special needs communities, with war veterans, or ethnic or cultural minorities with their own, unique beliefs and lifestyle. Their traditions and methods can be worked into the process. It has also has high success rates outside of the United States.

Learning More About The CRAFT Method

If therapists who practice the CRAFT method are not available in your area, books for learning the process are available. In addition, DrugRehab.org can help you find out more about the process and determine whether you and those you care about can benefit from it. Contact us to find out more.

When we think of recovery, usually we’re drawn to thinking about overcoming an addiction, but the word recovery, can mean much more than that. The disease of addiction unfolds in stages that can damage everything from your physical and mental health, to your marriage, career, and finances. Recovery can mean overcoming an addiction while picking up the pieces of the life you once knew, in an effort to build a new life for yourself, outside of the confines and consequences of an addiction.

Recovering Your Financial Well-Being

Drugs and alcohol erode stability and this process can have some pretty discouraging financial consequences. However, the good news is that it is possible to repair the damage. The repairs may take a number of years, but if you commitment to face the problems and the issues that may arise while working to solve it, your success will be a sweet reward.

The first step in recovering your financial well-being begins with addressing the addiction. Only then will any of these other problems truly be addressed in a sustainable manner. The next step following your recovery from addiction, is to examine how much debt has accumulated. This task can be overwhelming and may be best tackled with a trusted friend, or in stages.

First, sketch out the most urgent areas of debt. For example, are you about to be evicted for non-payment? Are the utilities being threatened? List these first, even if larger debt looms.

Next, examine all areas of debt, whether to a credit card company, a family member or friend, student loans, medical bills, etc. Consider the following:

• What is the total amount owed?
• What is the minimum payment required?
• Are you being charged late fees?
• Are your payments increasing exponentially due to non-payment?
• Which have the highest interest rates?
• Can any of the debt be consolidated?

The next urgency is in those late fees and increasing payments. A once manageable credit card payment, can skyrocket if you fail to make timely payments. At the opposite end of the spectrum, hospital debt does not usually accumulate interest. It also tends not have the same effect on your overall credit score.

Following this assessment, look at any income you have currently. What kind of repayment can you make presently? After the rent or mortgage and utilities, is there enough left over to begin paying down your debt? If you find your living expenses, including food costs and possibly childcare costs, are too high, you may qualify for state assistance in these areas, allowing you some opportunity to begin paying down some portion of the debt.

Before considering bankruptcy, which can also be costly, contact each of these creditors and ask whether there is any level of forbearance (a delay in payments) allowable or whether they would be willing to write off a portion of the debt given the circumstances. While this can negatively impact your credit, it is better than no attempt at repayment, and will show you made an effort to manage your payments reasonably.

Next, make a commitment to payments. Remember, creditors want to be paid back, so any effort you make represents progress. Even after an agreed upon payment plan, some creditors may still hound you with calls, but keep making the agreed upon payments and try not to agree to a higher payment, unless it is reasonable for you to do so. There is no shame in being honest with what you can and cannot, afford to pay.

Get creative. If you owe money to a credit card company, but have some equity in your house, you may consider refinancing your home to help pay down some immediate debt. Or perhaps a relative can relieve you of the stress of interest rates and by creditors.

In other cases, you may seek a delay in payments of one debt until another is paid off. This is another type of forbearance. If you have an urgent need to pay off a bill from a creditor, but you also owe your aunt and uncle money, consider asking them if you can delay payment. At this stage, and in many cases, you are rebuilding trust. You may even offer to help with a chore in the meantime, until you are better able to repay your debt.

If, in the end, the amount of debt you owe is so large and looming, and no agreements can be made, bankruptcy may be considered as a last resort. Keep in mind, not everyone is granted bankruptcy and legal costs may add up to a few thousand dollars. Research whether the credit harm caused by a bankruptcy does or does not outweigh your current credit crisis.

When Fixing Financial Problems Following Addiction, Consider Following These Steps:

• Address the addiction first and foremost
• Seek help from a trusted friend
• Assess any urgent repayment issues (rent, mortgage, utilities)
• Assess types of debt and rank according to associated fees, penalties, etc.
• Examine your income and what money is available for repayment to creditors
• Do you qualify for food or other state assistance?
• Contact creditors and find out whether forbearance or write-offs are possible
• Make only reasonable payment plans (promise only what you can afford to pay)
• Move one debt to another form of debt
• Research whether bankruptcy is an option, if all else fails

Addressing Your Financial Security

At this point, we’ve really only addressed debt. There’s more to financial health than paying others. A good financial advisor will tell you to create an emergency savings fund. This fund usually involves enough savings to offset a period of unemployment spanning three to six months. To arrive at this number, consider all of your agreed upon payments, mortgage or rent, utilities, and living expenses and multiply that by a minimum of three months. This may seem like an impossible target, but setting aside a small amount of money each month can make a huge difference when needed.

Recovery Solutions For Active Addiction

Recovering from an addiction is much more than just overcoming the drugs or alcohol. It’s about rebuilding your life in a way that gives you the tools and opportunities to build a better life. DrugRehab.org is an online resource to connect you with the professional support and comprehensive, evdence-based treatment options to get you started. It all begins with one simple, confidential phone call. Begin your life again, starting today and discover a rewarding life in recovery.

“Quit” and “cure” are two very different words. Both words imply an end to something – in this case addiction–but each has its own meaning as it pertains to addiction as a behavioral symptom. What must first be evaluated before delving into the idea of curative probabilities is a balanced definition of addiction.

What Is Addiction

Addiction, as many will say and hold to be empirically true, is a disease. It is a disease because, through trial, error, and other bouts of yearning for definition, the reigning experts on addiction have declared and maintained that “disease” is the word of choice in application to addiction.

Declared thusly, this does not mean that everyone has to abide by the rules of this definition, nor believe it to be true. You may find that in personal experience, addiction comes as a symptom to your inability to resist an attempt at numbing your negative emotions. “Symptom” can be the word of choice here as your mental or emotional struggles manifest themselves in these “needs” that further promote use. Addiction, in this definition, becomes secondary to a primary problem of emotional debilitation.

A third, and perhaps more promising definition, is “side effect.” Addiction as a side effect allows it to exist alongside other factors which may or may not be a primary cause. If we look at addiction as something that comes about after, during, or sneakily before the varying problems we encounter in life, it can be said that addiction was never had with intention. Nobody sought out being addicted to drugs or alcohol under this school of thought. Addiction became apparent after use developed into dependency.

The Need For Remedy

Whether you adhere to the notion that addiction is a disease, a symptom, a side effect, or something completely different, knowing that it’s commonly a problem makes for the need of a remedy. A cure implies that there is a final and absolute end to a problem, usually negating the probability of the illness returning. Addiction, for that reason, skirts the idea of being able to be unequivocally cured as we know it can return as a symptom, following hardships and other points of resurgence.

If going with the idea that addiction is a side effect and not a disease, then we cannot safely say that addiction can be “cured,” as side effects can emerge for many reasons and the the element of addiction that brings in dependency will commonly return along with use. The reinstated use of a drug on which one has already become dependent will often trigger dependency again, usually more quickly and intensely than before. The healing process and the steps that follow and may continue forever, can be strenuous and tolling, but worth the effort of finally getting a sense of control over one’s own existence.

Addiction In Remission

In the many views of addiction, its causes and its definitions, there will always be a need, at the very least, for remission. In this mindset, we can compare addiction to cancer and continue to think about curative senses and points of relief. Those struggling with addiction and its many causes will feel that finding some level of self-control is, in essence, being cured of self-perceived illness.

Addiction, for certain, feels much like an illness in that it contributes so heavily to more serious issues and it propels the feeling of being sick into a whole new territory. When the struggle becomes unbearable, and is still apparent as a bodily desire, there must be some basis for establishing that basic notion that a “cure” is available.

Just as cancer allows for the sufferer to be cured only at a state of remission, with the possibility always present for the cancer to reemerge, substance abuse and addiction can always come back into our lives after using again. Just one use of a drug to which we were formerly addicted can bring about associated feelings that cause the second use, then the third, and so on, until body and mind are under the control of drugs once more.

The State Of Remission

Being in remission, or being able to describe yourself as “cured” of addiction, is possible. It is perfectly feasible to have a life free from the hold of drugs and alcohol, and furthermore, absolutely possible to never have addiction enter your life again.

Your cure can come from any number of effects that cause your desire to change in a great way. You may even be surprised by what triggers you to seek help or to quit doing drugs on your own.

Some curative actions could come from:

• Beginning a new relationship
• Expecting a new child
• Getting hired for a new job
• Being accepted into college
• Reuniting with old friends
• Repairing family relationships

Whatever comes about that causes a change in your heart and lends to your strength to fight against the drug that holds control over you, know that a “cure” for addiction can be had by anyone. Everyone’s journey is different, everyone’s struggle is real and can seem like a never ending battle, but even with the idea of healing being better described as a state of remission, it is the change of life that really keeps you healthy.

Holding On To Remission

The best and only way to remain “cured” of addiction is to abstain from the use of addicting substances. Habitual use of something other than what you were originally addicted to can just as easily pose a threat to your status of sobriety as your brain will still have the tendency to propel into a mode of dependency.

Keeping sober – like remaining cancer-free – requires many extra steps on your part. Being in remission means having “checkups” and doing maintenance to keep yourself in recovery mode. The cure is possible, but you will need to always keep yourself in remission in order to be “cured” of addiction.

Get Into Treatment – Get The Cure

Today is the day for you to take that stride into remission. A cure is possible for you, so reach out and get into the best treatment for your needs. Contact DrugRehab.org for help and information on getting into a rehab center or outpatient program today.

The majority of individuals affected by Hepatitis C virus (HCV) are currently using or have previously used IV drugs. Exposure to the virus spreads through the blood, often with the sharing of needles from person to person. It can appear in an acute and curable form if detected early enough after initial exposure. Unfortunately, most people are unaware they are carrying the virus and don’t usually exhibit symptoms until years following initial exposure, making it difficult to reduce the damage caused by the disease. If an individual has previously engaged in IV drug use, they may benefit from HCV screening.

While the majority of individuals carrying HCV engage in IV drug use, this population also faces the greatest barriers to treatment for the disease including risks associated with medication interactions, costs, and appropriate screening.

What Is Hepatitis C And Who Is Most At Risk?

Hepatitis C is a liver disease, spread through a virus, and most often affects those who share needles, as is seen in IV drug use. While individuals with HCV can live full lives, populations engaging in IV drug use face several obstacles to the quality of care needed to prevent the long-term dangers of chronic HCV.

While millions of individuals carry HCV, many are unaware they have the disease. Symptoms of the virus can take years to manifest, though once they do, the damage may be irreversible.

Signs And Symptoms Of Hepatitis C

Initial exposure (within the first six months) to the virus may initiate symptoms similar to flu, including a low-grade fever, fatigue or weakness, and loss of appetite. More severe symptoms may develop early on or years after initial exposure and include vomiting, stomach cramping, joint weakness and pain, muscle soreness, changes in urine or bowel routine, and jaundice.

Beware Of The Following Signs And Symptoms Of Hepatitis C:

• Low-grade fever
• Fatigue, weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea, vomiting
• Stomach cramping
• Joint weakness and muscle pain
• Changes in urine, bowel routine
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)

If you have recently shared a needle with another person and are exhibiting any combination of these symptoms, it is essential you get screened for the virus. Early screening and treatment can eliminate acute HCV and potentially cure chronic forms of the disease.

Barriers To Treatment For Hepatitis C For IV Drug Users

There are several barriers to treatment for Hepatitis C among populations engaging in IV drug use. Many of the abused substances delivered intravenously can negatively impact medications used in the treatment of HCV. These medications can increase overdose risk. Additionally, someone who is only recently in recovery may relapse and either discontinue treatment or continue treatment despite the known overdose risk. Generally speaking, an inability to maintain abstinence from drug use during HCV treatment is a primary barrier to care. In other cases, side effects from the medications or substance interactions can prevent treatment continuation.

Some of these drugs, despite their proven effectiveness in stopping the virus, come with a major price tag surpassing more than $1,000 a pill. And they are not always covered by insurance, creating yet another barrier to treatment.

Other barriers to treatment include a lack of screening as those who are engaging in illicit IV drug use are not likely to seek medical screening. Another major barrier is a lack of awareness among the general population of both the dangers of HCV, and the benefits of treatment for the virus.

How Is Hepatitis C Treated?

Individuals who are no longer using IV drugs or alcohol may benefit from the use of antiviral medications designed to stop reproduction of the Hepatitis C virus. These drugs are highly effective and may be used alone or in combination with other medications.

Drugs used to treat HCV include Harvoni, Olysio, Sovaldi, and Viekira Pak. Ribavirin is a another medication used to interrupt ribonucleic acid (RNA) metabolism, again reducing replication of the virus.

Use of these medications alone or in combination depends on the person’s overall health, viral load, whether or not cirrhosis of the liver has set in, and whether or not they continue to abuse substances or use substances at low levels during treatment. Someone is considered free of HCV after they show a sustained virologic response (no virus detected in the blood) for six months.

Needle Exchanges As A Method Of HCV Prevention

As a method of harm reduction, some cities have instituted needle exchange programs designed to prevent the spread of blood pathogens like HCV. One program in New York found the initial HCV prevalence of a staggering 91% among participants in the program. This number has since dropped to 56%, a significant decrease in exposure to the virus from shared needles.

With needle sharing accounting for greater than nearly 70% of Hepatitis C infections, programs like the one implemented in New York can have a major preventative impact across the United States.

Treatment For IV Drug Use

If you are currently engaging in IV drug use, you are at high risk of contracting HCV. DrugRehab.org is an online resource designed to connect you with the resources, professional support, and evidence-based treatment options to put you on the path to recovery. Contact us to speak with someone in confidence and discover the many benefits of recovery beginning today.

Relapse can be a scary event for those who have faced addiction. It doesn’t just impact the drug- or alcohol-addicted person; it affects parents, siblings, children, spouses, friends, and co-workers. While relapse can feel like a failure, though challenging, it is a normal part of the recovery process. Knowing the warning signs of relapse can lead to swifter action and a more immediate and lasting response and a better recovery outcome for your loved one.

Know The Signs Of Drug Or Alcohol Relapse

If you have watched a loved one survive an addiction to drugs or alcohol, signs of a relapse can stir a complex array of emotions. It is normal to feel angry, anxious, and even depressed, though it is equally important to refrain from lashing out at your loved one or making strong accusatory statements, despite any frustration you might be experiencing.

One of the best ways to help a loved one who has previously battled an addiction is to remain open and available for them. If you are questioning whether they’ve relapsed on a regular basis, it can cause undo stress and may deter them from turning to you for help. One way to begin a conversation with someone you suspect may be on the verge of relapse, or who has relapsed is to ask them about stresses in their lives. Approach the conversation on the basis of understanding that recovery is a difficult process. This approach will leave room for your loved one to open up about any potential setbacks to their recovery.

Signs of drug or alcohol relapse include changes in attitude or a shift in behavior. In some cases, you might see more blame-oriented conversation. A person who has relapsed will typically fall into old thought and behavioral patterns quickly, so be on the look out for those old familiar issues including missing important events, a lack of interest in hobbies or social time with friends and family, financial or work-related struggles, and unexplained changes in sleep patterns or appetite.

Signs Drug or Alcohol Relapse Has Occurred Include:

• Changes in behaviors
• Moodiness
• Lack of interest in social events
• Lack of interest in hobbies
• Missing work
• Financial struggles
• Unexplained changes in sleep patterns
• Unexplained changes in appetite

How To Get Help After A Relapse

Remember, though it feels like your loved one has chosen to relapse, addiction is a disease. Those struggling with addiction may feel extreme frustration, anxiety, and depression following a relapse. Helping your loved one understand that relapse is not the conclusion to their recovery journey, but rather another stepping stone forward is hugely beneficial for the recovering individual. Relapse is normal and recovery from relapse is equally normal.

The good news is that your loved one has already gone through the program; they know what to expect and are on better footing than they were prior to their initial recovery. Remind them that relapse is a normal part of recovery and that sometimes people relapse multiple times on their way to a long-term recovery. While a return to rehab or treatment might feel redundant for someone who has just relapsed, it can invigorate the desire for change and promote new avenues or approaches to recovery with improved results. Often those who have experienced a relapse while in recovery say they came back feeling more committed to their recovery following the experience.

This first step involving communicating your support of your loved one is critical. You never want the person to feel like you’re going behind their back. Once you have talked with your loved one and discovered that relapse has occurred, talk with them about reaching out for professional support. If they give you excuses as to why it won’t work this time, remind them that it did help them previously and that additional complementary therapies may be employed to further improve their long-term recovery.

Anyone who has spent time with someone in recovery is aware of the reasons someone has chosen to enter drug or alcohol rehabilitation. For someone who has relapsed, they may need to be reminded of these goals, including preservation of their health, custody of their children, and more.

Connect them with a treatment support person who can facilitate a re-entry into treatment or recommend an appropriate course of action. Make promises you can keep about your commitment to helping them through the relapse. And reach out to other support people, including family, friends, and co-workers asking for their support.

Now is the time to address and assess any lingering issues that might contribute to future relapses.

Why Do People Relapse?

While there is no single answer to the question of why people relapse, there are some common issues that result in relapse. Someone who went from treatment directly into a home environment that promoted drug use or included drug exposure, or where stress is a large factor may feel overwhelmed by the sudden external pressures and resort to using again. Many programs require meetings or ongoing counseling. If this step was skipped, it can also result in higher rates of relapse. Ongoing meetings promote the broadening of a social network of other individuals committed to recovery. If your loved one skipped this step, they might have felt isolated from former friends or family who abused drugs. A return to spending time with those who use is a huge red flag in recovery.

Was the individual committed to their recovery in the first place? Sometimes an individual will enter rehab half-committed to achieving recovery. This thinking will nearly always result in relapse as it often includes the belief that once in recovery, they will be in better control of their drug use.

Was a co-occurring mental disorder left undiagnosed? Did your loved one previously suffer from anxiety or depression or some other disease or illness that might be perpetuating use of drugs or alcohol?

Relapse is a time to assess what needs were met in recovery and where treatment or transitioning out of treatment may have fallen short. And the earlier you intervene, the better the overall chance of recovery for your loved one.

If You Or A Loved One Has Relapsed, Help Is Near

DrugRehab.org is an online resource connecting you with the professional support and evidence-based care you need and deserve. Contact us today and take that next step forward in your recovery journey.