Understanding the Cycle of Addiction

Understanding the Cycle of Addiction

Millions of people and their families are impacted by addiction. Although it’s such a widespread issue, each person experiences their struggles in a somewhat unique way. Learning how addiction functions can be a challenge on its own. Only by understanding the cycle of addiction can you learn to break it. That’s why, in this article, we’ll focus on everything you need to know about the cycle of addiction and the ways to break it. 

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a complex condition that affects both the mind and the body. It’s marked by compulsive substance use or other behaviors, even when they have detrimental effects. The cycle of addiction occurs when a person becomes dependent on a substance or behavior and finds it challenging to cease using it in defiance of its adverse effects. Knowing and understanding the cycle of addiction can help explain why addiction happens. And also why quitting can be so challenging.

There are numerous stages of the addiction cycle: 

Initial Use

Usually, people don’t automatically become addicted the first time they use drugs or alcohol. In fact, many people, especially teens, may first try drugs and alcohol with their friends out of curiosity or due to peer pressure. While the initial use may not lead to addiction, many still experience the short-term positive effects of the substance. This may lead them to use it again. Additionally, some people may be more prone to addiction due to genetic or societal factors. Or they have an addictive personality and can become addicted more quickly than others. However, it’s important to remember that the initial use of drugs or alcohol does not always guarantee an addiction.

People usually start experimenting with drugs and alcohol in their teenage years.

Regular Use

Although it often starts as a way of experimenting with something new, substance abuse can quickly and easily become much more than that. Instead of using healthy coping mechanisms, many people turn to alcohol and drugs to escape their current situation and manage challenging feelings. The easy relief that drugs and alcohol provide can make them an appealing option. Yet, no matter how well-intentioned an individual’s use of them may be, it can quickly become an addiction that is difficult to break.

Over time, the effects of these substances can become even more pronounced, and the addict may experience an increased tolerance and need for them, making it even harder to quit. When a person starts relying on drugs and alcohol to function normally and cope with their situation, a much bigger problem is likely to occur. 

High-Risk Use

As a person’s tolerance grows and they become more reliant on the drug or behavior, they may start to resort to riskier behaviors to ease their urges. This can involve engaging in dangerous activities or ingesting more of the drug than is recommended. In most cases, people in this stage tend to fall into financial issues due to the high prices of drugs and alcohol. Moreover, they often neglect to go to work or do not do their job well, which could lead to losing their job. In many cases, they also forget to take care of themselves, eat well, or exercise, which also has a harmful effect on their health, in addition to substance abuse.

These behaviors may result in serious repercussions, including legal problems, bodily harm, or even mortality. Furthermore, these issues can have a long-lasting and damaging effect on an individual’s well-being, from mental health issues to physical injury or even death. Additionally, the person might become trapped in a cycle of addiction that is challenging to escape. Once on this path, it can be tough to get off, leading to a spiral of negative consequences. It can be hard to find the strength to make a change.

Understanding the cycle of addiction is crucial so you can pinpoint the difference between dependency and addiction.

Dependency

The person may eventually become completely dependent on the drug or behavior to the point where it’s necessary for them to feel normal. When individual attempts to quit the drug or behavior, withdrawal symptoms can manifest. This is a result of physical or psychological dependence.

Physically, one may experience nausea, sweating, and fatigue, while psychological withdrawal symptoms may be anxiety and depression, ranging from mild to severe. Other symptoms can occur depending on the individual, such as insomnia, changes in appetite, irritability, and difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly. These symptoms can be very difficult to manage, especially without professional help and support. 

Breaking the Cycle of Addiction

Although breaking the pattern of addiction is a challenging process, it’s doable with the proper support and assistance. Moreover, treatment is essential to treat both the addiction and the root problem of addiction. Usually, these roots come from unresolved psychological and mental issues. Working on them can give people the knowledge and ability to control their addiction and live healthier lives.

This assistance can take many forms, including frequent attendance in support groups, medication-assisted therapy, and individual or group counseling. With the proper support, people can learn to identify triggers, control cravings, and increase their self-awareness and self-control. All of this is laying the groundwork for a more substantial rehabilitation.

The most effective way to treat addiction is also to treat the root cause of addiction: psychological trauma.

Starting Over

After receiving proper treatment, it’s time for a person to start their life all over again. Sometimes, people take that literally and move to an entirely new city or even a new state. For example, by hiring long-distance movers in Florida, anyone can start over with expert help in no time! For many, this is the best way to avoid falling into old patterns and risky behaviors. 

Conclusion

Understanding the cycle of addiction is a crucial first step in seeking help and breaking out of the destructive cycle of addiction. From there, one can take the required steps to start the rehabilitation path by becoming conscious of the various phases of addiction. People can strive to reclaim their freedom from addiction and lead healthier lives with the proper tools and assistance. This can be accomplished by following a thorough therapy plan that addresses the underlying problems, creates healthy coping strategies, and builds a solid support network. With help and support, people can overcome addiction and achieve the happiness and satisfaction they deserve.

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What is Transfer Addiction?

What is Transfer Addiction?

Recovery is not as simple as quitting drugs or alcohol and waiting for all side effects to disappear. There are many roads to recovery, and some of them can lead to dead ends. This means that it is possible to start doing something that you believe will aid your recovery but is actually hindering it. Transfer addiction (or addiction transfer) is one such example. Addiction transfer is a term that mental health professionals use to describe changing one addiction for another. People in recovery often resort to addiction transfer when they attempt to smooth over the disruptions to their daily lives that result from giving up one substance for another. It is vital to understand how addiction transfer works. Therefore, today we’ll be giving an answer to the question: what is transfer addiction?

What Exactly Is Transfer Addiction?

When a person in recovery starts to swap one addiction with another, this is called a “transfer addiction.” This phenomenon can occur either during or after the initial addiction treatment. It’s possible that patients undergoing bariatric surgery, as well as those recovering from substance abuse and alcoholic relapse, will encounter this difficulty. This is why it is so important to look at addiction as a lifelong condition that requires constant attention. While it’s crucial to learn to substitute better behaviors for those you’ve outgrown, people in recovery also need to keep an eye on their “addiction brain” to make sure they don’t slip back into old patterns. 

How Addiction Transfer Works

People prone to addiction transfer frequently switch from one form of addiction to another in order to feel the same gratifying effects. This is dangerous because widespread changes to one’s routine and habits might be unsettling, increasing the risk of relapsing if one is not watchful. Additionally, people who suffer from transfer addiction often convince themselves that substituting one addictive behavior or drug for another is not the same as relapsing. The chemical imbalance in the brain (often referred to as an “addictive personality”) causes a person to be predisposed to addiction, so when they fail to satisfy their addiction with one habit, they will try to do so with another.

If handled properly, addiction transfer can have a positive effect.

That being said, with the right addiction treatment approach, addiction transfer can turn into something positive. For instance, a person in recovery can try replacing their drug use with more positive habits. Exercise, diet, yoga, mindfulness, socialization, and meditation are all great examples of behaviors that are healthy and non-addictive. That said, some of these habits (like exercise) can be destructive if taken too far. Therefore, it is important to set specific goals for each activity and make sure to do them slowly.

Addiction Transfer Causes

When someone has an addiction, their brain changes in such a manner that they will do almost everything to feed that addiction. Consequently, an individual’s ability to experience happiness may be constrained by low levels of dopamine in the brain. Many individuals will turn to transfer addiction as a means of coping with the unpleasant emotions that might arise in early sobriety. Addictive routines may be soothing and help individuals feel less agitated and anxious while they go through the challenging processes of withdrawal and overcoming cravings. Sometimes, a person’s addiction may shift from one drug to another. Addictions may also manifest themselves in seemingly “healthy” behaviors, as we’ve mentioned. Common examples of substituting one addictive behavior for another include the use of cocaine, the development of eating disorders such as food addiction, the abuse of opioids, alcohol, heroin, or other compulsive behaviors.

Addiction transfer is frequently the result of difficulties encountered during rehabilitation.

How To Identify Transfer Addiction

addiction transfer may be hard to see at first. This is primarily due to the fact that people tend to focus far more on keeping the old addiction at bay than on preventing a new one. While compulsive shopping and overeating may seem like innocuous hobbies at first glance, they may have serious health effects in the long term. The symptoms of a transferred addiction are similar to those of other addictions:

• Forgetting to take care of basic hygiene needs or other forms of self-care
• Giving up rest and one’s usual pursuits in favor of the novel activity
• Developing an unhealthy preoccupation with the novel pursuit
• Having issues in other areas of your life as a result of your new hobby
• Trouble at home or in relationships because of the new activity
• Feeling stressed, anxious, or even suicidal if unable to participate in the novel activity or obtain the substance

Is Addiction Transfer Treatable?

Addiction transfer is something you can manage if you know what to do. Admitting you need additional assistance may be discouraging, humiliating, and upsetting. This is especially the case if someone feels like they just got through a difficult rehab. That being said, the true challenge of addiction lies in resolving its structural and psychological underpinnings rather than just alleviating its surface manifestations. The truth is that many people need to spend a far longer time in rehabilitation than they would first anticipate.

Counseling or therapy is necessary for the treatment of transfer addiction.

Long-term addiction treatment involves addressing not only the drug or behavior itself but also the underlying chemical imbalances and emotional disorders that contribute to the development of the addiction. Regaining command of your life may include participation in a dual diagnosis program, as well as treatment, education, counseling, and relapse prevention. In some cases, it may even require a new environment. For this reason, it’s good to know that experts can help you start over in a new place, be it Boynton Beach or any other location renowned for its recovery centers. 

Conclusion

So, what is transfer addiction? To sum it up, it’s a tendency to temporarily or permanently transfer an addiction to a new type of substance or activity in order to experience a pleasant feeling, even though it may have serious negative consequences. Anywhere from 10% to 90% of people with drug addictions switch to another drug when that first one goes away. For this reason, it is important to know what addiction transfer is, how to recognize it, and the importance of preventing it from happening in the first place.

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Embark on a Creative Journey to Overcome Trauma Through Art Therapy

Embark on a Creative Journey to Overcome Trauma Through Art Therapy

For any trauma survivor, talking about the experience can be challenging. Really hard. Depending on the individual’s experience, although effective, traditional psychotherapy can be very intrusive and head-on. Verbal articulation of our deepest, most daunting memories and fears simply does not come easy, no matter how seemingly resilient and sturdy we may appear on the outside. The shell is always tough; protecting the vulnerable bits, the subtleties within, that’s a whole different story. There’s no inner armor, no blanket to cover us from the world’s harm. Verbalizing a traumatic experience can be a traumatic event in itself, as it can trigger memories our psyche cannot process or rationalize. Confronting trauma face-to-face is often an overwhelming event. And that’s precisely why we resort to creative outlets. Can we overcome trauma through art therapy? Let’s see. 

Defining trauma

What exactly is trauma? Psychology defines trauma as a severe emotional response to a particular life event; the death of a loved one, abuse, war, natural disasters, and other similarly dreadful experiences. Shock and denial are typical coping mechanisms. Not to mention that a traumatized individual can experience an array of emotions, even years after the very event. Trauma can affect and cause reactions not only on a psychological level, but it can also encompass the emotional and physical plane.

Accepting the traumatic event is the first step.

Types of trauma

There are three main types of trauma:

• acute trauma: results from a single event
• chronic trauma: prolonged and repeated, such as domestic violence
• complex trauma: exposure to different singular traumatic events; multiple traumatic experiences of interpersonal nature

 

Psychological and emotional symptoms:

• fear and anxiety
• self-blame
• guilt, shame
• hopelessness
• denial, disbelief
• irritability, mood swings, anger
• withdrawing socially
• feeling numb

Physical symptoms:

• muscle tension
• nightmares
• insomnia
• poor concentration
• fatigue
• feeling edgy and agitated
• scared easily
• racing heartbeat
• pains and aches

A traumatic experience can impede one’s ability to articulate emotions, as well as directly affect one’s ability to maintain relationships. Furthermore, traumatized individuals often withhold feelings or respond through outbursts. So many turn to drug addiction as a way to alleviate the unprocessed event.

If left unaddressed, trauma can have detrimental consequences.

Art therapy: what is it?

Art therapy, being a hybrid field, combines creative expression and applied psychological theory to treat various psychological disorders. It cleverly bypasses any therapy form’s most feared and demanding aspect: conversation. So, in a way, it is benevolently sneaky at its core, as it gently pushes us toward facing the monster, yet without ever using imperative. Instead of verbal guidance, we are offered a blank canvas. And a brush. And some paint.

Most importantly – we are offered freedom of expression. And when given permission, the subconscious eagerly treads the cerebral pathway, suddenly transmuting into something irreversibly tangible. And just like that, the monsters are out. Art therapy is an exquisite tool for conveying the unutterable in us, and that’s precisely why and how it can help heal trauma wounds.

 

Art therapy techniques

The ultimate goal of art therapy is to achieve self-expression and personal insight. Unlike traditional “Have a seat. How did that make you feel?” therapeutic methods, this creative approach is about circumventing the source of one’s overwhelm (i.e., trauma) and finding less intrusive ways to process and consequently face and understand the negative experience. We can overcome trauma through art therapy by gaining essential insights and developing healthy coping mechanisms. Furthermore, the seemingly childish and naive therapeutic method can, indeed, help us expand self-awareness. By embarking on this creative journey, we are able to explore our thought patterns and suppressed emotions without feeling as though the terrible truths are being imposed on us against our will or capacities, for that matter. Art therapy techniques include:

• Pottery
• Working with clay
• Drawing
• Painting
• Scribbling
• Doodling
• Coloring
• Sculpting
• Carving
• Collage
• Photography
• Finger painting

 Art therapy: settings

Another perk of art therapy: its versatile nature welcomes different settings, tools, moods, and narratives. It can be done literally – anywhere. Online or in person. Many trauma survivors move after the malicious event. If that is the case, finding new, healthy surroundings is key to healing from a traumatic experience. Fishing Chinook in Alaska? Waterfront living in Florida? – whatever the choice, it can benefit your health, that’s for sure. So, where does art therapy usually take place? If done in person with a certified art therapist, facilities can include the following:

• women’s shelters
• art studios
• private practice offices
• wellness centers
• homeless shelters
• universities
• elementary schools
• nursing homes
• hospitals

– pretty much everywhere.

Less apparent benefits of art therapy

Art therapy is recommended for all trauma survivors, as it can help with processing difficult emotions, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and chronic stress. Additionally, it can boost our self-esteem and self-confidence, regulate our emotional response, develop (or restore) social skills and alleviate acute trauma symptoms, all through self-expression and self-exploration. Art therapy can help us:

• learn how to manage triggers and stress
• enhance our verbal and nonverbal communication skills
• adopt a healthy conflict resolution approach
• deal with difficult emotional responses such as frustration, anger, guilt, shame, and embarrassment
• expand our self-awareness

 

Say “NO” to self-doubt

As a creative form of therapy, art therapy can induce feelings of resistance. “I’m not good enough.” “I don’t even know how to draw.” “Color books are for children.” Often, self-doubt creeps in, and individuals quit before they’ve had the chance to get acquainted with all the healing benefits this “silly” therapeutic approach can provide. Art therapy’s goal (or the expectation) isn’t masterpiece production but providing trauma survivors with an opportunity to engage in a constructive dialogue with their inner “abuser.” The naive form of emotional expression (creating art) knows no age; it is merely our innate ability to make sense of internal processes. Why not use it? From adolescent trauma survivors with an alcohol abuse history to veterans diagnosed with PTSD – all can benefit.

 

Final thoughts

Can we overcome trauma through art therapy? Yes. But only if we allow ourselves to be open, honest, and finally – accepting of changes. It’s only up from here.

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Dependence vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?

Dependence vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?

Due to the widespread use and general social acceptance of drugs and alcohol, many people are confused regarding dependence vs. addiction: what’s the difference? Unfortunately, individuals who are not familiar with the complexities of substance use will typically turn to ‘addiction’ as a catch-all term. The lack of accurate terminology can lead to confusion, misunderstandings, and even stigma regarding rehabilitation and treatment. To help set the record straight, we will discuss dependence and addiction.

What is dependence?

Dependence on drugs and alcohol usually exhibits in two prominent ways: The gradual buildup of tolerance and the withdrawal symptoms. Individuals may have a dependence on a substance without necessarily developing an addiction. However, in most cases, addiction will quickly follow if the initial dependence isn’t addressed.

Tolerance can easily be explained by substances like alcohol. For example, when a person frequently drinks excessive amounts of alcohol, over time, they will require larger quantities to achieve the same level of inebriation. Of course, that kind of consumption can lead to many issues, and we recommend seeking alcohol treatment to prevent severe health complications.

Withdrawal symptoms occur when a person attempts to reduce their use or stop using entirely. The exact symptoms will depend on the substance in question, but they are always uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. If individuals are using hard drugs, withdrawal symptoms can be almost impossible to overcome without professional help. Therefore, it would be best to contact a professional treatment center rather than trying to overcome the withdrawal symptoms alone.

Even casual drinking can lead to dependence on alcohol.

There are two primary forms of dependence: physical and mental.

Physical dependence is typically characterized by cravings and irritability when a substance isn’t used. Medical professionals always recommend that it’s better to slowly reduce the usage over time rather than to stop abruptly. A sudden stop in drug or alcohol use can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. This can be particularly problematic when individuals use prescription medication, and people frequently end up addicted to prescription drugs.

Prescription drug addiction can quickly develop from prolonged use or simply misunderstanding how to use prescription medication. Individuals who take prescription medication to combat a chronic issue can create a physical tolerance. This tolerance can trick them into using more of the drug to avoid chronic pain or other problems. The experts from consumeropinion.org run a database of different providers and services and recommend using medical alert devices. Such devices can remind you to take your prescription meds only at times recommended by your physician. However, it would be best to consult with your doctor regarding prescription drug use and how to taper off your recommended dosage slowly.

Mental dependence can exhibit itself as a desire to use that is conditioned. The events and feelings that may cause a desire to use are often called triggers. These triggers lead to biochemical changes in an individual’s brain chemistry. The results of these triggers can present themselves as a strong desire to use; however, they can also cause irritability, nervousness, anxiety, and depression.

Addiction is often accompanied by depression and other co-existing mental disorders.

What is addiction?

Addiction is formally called substance use disorder and is classified as a diagnosable medical condition. The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as a chronic mental illness. This means that addiction cannot be healed; however, its symptoms can be treated and mitigated. Addiction often presents itself as the compulsive use of drugs, regardless of the harmful consequences to a person’s physical and mental health. Persons suffering from long-term drug or alcohol abuse experience changes to their brain chemistry and a vast array of physical symptoms.

If left untreated, addiction will usually get worse over time. As individuals build up a tolerance, they will undoubtedly use more to achieve the same high. This behavior can cause organ damage, overdose, and in extreme cases, even death. Most individuals suffering from addiction believe they can stop their substance abuse if they want to. Unfortunately, overcoming addiction can be highly challenging and is usually impossible without professional help.

Causes for addiction

Addiction frequently develops from dependence on drugs or alcohol. A combination of factors can lead to addiction, such as specific brain chemistry, a genetic predisposition, and various societal factors. Of course, certain hard drugs are incredibly addictive and can cause addiction to form almost immediately. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder for hard drugs, you should seek drug addiction treatment at a professional recovery center.

Even some professionals have trouble telling the difference between dependence vs. addiction.

Dependence vs. addiction

When an individual has both the physical and mental symptoms of dependence, they usually suffer from addiction. Although dependence isn’t directly synonymous with addiction, individuals suffering from substance use disorder are usually experiencing dependence as well. One of the best ways to differentiate dependence vs. addiction is that individuals with addiction have both physical and mental dependence, and they exhibit compulsive and uncontrollable behavior. Individuals with addiction will go to great lengths to obtain and use the substance they are addicted to. On the other hand, dependence may be present without addiction, but if left unchecked, substance dependency can lead to addiction.

Substance abuse and substance dependence are often equated, even among medical professionals. The best way to tell them apart is by looking at the frequency and extent of the substance use. It’s hard to give a universal answer since the extent of use that characterizes addiction will depend on the substance in question.

Another point of confusion can stem from the different vocabulary used by various institutions and agencies. In recent years there have been significant efforts to standardize the terminology used for substance use and the various disorders accompanying it.

In conclusion

If we try to understand dependence vs. addiction, we can better understand the reasons and causes for substance use and the best ways to help individuals suffering from addiction. It is also essential for individuals in recovery to educate themselves on the nature of addiction. Learning about triggers and physical dependence can help individuals successfully achieve recovery and prevent relapse. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use, reach out for help now.

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Best dating sites for over 50

Best dating sites for over 50

Many local newspapers had online personals in the mid 1990s but were bought out by these big dating sites. From some of the comments it really shows how desperate dating sites are for money that they even advertise in comment sections. You have a much better chance going to local events and you will probably spend less than what you would spend on an online dating site.

Other apps have indicated that they might actually move closer to Facebook. For example, Bumble, founded by a former Tinder executive, said they had already reached out to Facebook regarding how to collaborate. And, “One thing everyone seems to agree on is that Facebook’s effectively endorsing online dating will be a huge legitimization event for the industry,” says Jefferies Internet analyst Brent Thill. According to Amanda Bradford, chief executive of The League, an elite dating app, “Facebook is validating that dating is a high-tech industry with really interesting and hard problems to solve. Still, Facebook could face some obstacles in building enough separation between the dating service and the legacy social network; some users might not like having both activities live on one app.

After giving him some time to cope with his cat passing away, he made plans to see her again and she was thrilled. He canceled the date last minute again because he said his grandma had died. Although this seemed too tragic to be true, she gave him the benefit of the doubt that he was telling the truth. Additionally, if someone is giving you a checklist right away of all of the things they want in a future partner, this may be a red flag for some controlling behaviors. It’s one thing if they express their non-negotiables but it’s another thing entirely if they are listing required traits. If you feel like someone is already trying to change things about you to suit their needs, that’s not okay. How someone initiates a conversation with you will say a lot about how they view you as a person and how they might treat you as a partner.

Online dating users are more likely to describe their overall experience with using dating sites or apps in positive, rather than negative, terms. Some 57% of Americans who have ever used a dating site or app say their own personal experiences with these platforms have been very or somewhat positive. Still, about four-in-ten online daters (42%) describe their personal experience with dating sites or apps as at least somewhat negative. Happily, there are some dating services that are looking to overcome the vanity. For example, Hinge matches people based on personality and preferences and lets you create a more interesting and rounded profile to draw people in. One of the few dating sites designed for affairs, Ashley Madison connects users for discreet encounters.

Basically all a guy like you has to do is instantly grab her attention in a memorable way with both your profile and your messages, then spend the least amount of time possible convincing her to meet you in person. For those who are hesitant to enter the online dating world for reasons related to safety or awkward conversation lulls, Double aims to take the pressure off with Double dates as opposed to one-on-one.

State things that are really important to you and be done with it. Connor turned an attempt at small talk into a rant about “gold-digging whores,” and the dating app was not having it. Matt- But what about when you said you would meet me in real life and we would lose our virginity together. One Love educates young people about healthy and unhealthy relationships, empowering them to identify and avoid abuse and learn how to love better. If you are going somewhere that serves alcoholic beverages, most bartenders are using secret codes to help customers signal, privately, when they need help if they’re getting harassed or feeling unsafe on a bad date.

With no financial requirement, free sites will naturally attract a greater proportion of people who are not really committed to finding a genuine relationship. Memberships you gain additional features such as being able to send more messages and receiving event discounts.

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How Does Going to Rehab Affect Legal Proceedings?

How Does Going to Rehab Affect Legal Proceedings?

It can be difficult to tell how some people will perceive your choice to enter a rehab facility. If you’re already under a lot of pressure with child custody cases or court appearances to show your growth, you may be worried about how going to rehab will look to other people.

Rest assured, going to rehab will always be a good thing for your legal case. Getting help for your addiction or mental health problems shows that you are making positive strides toward a healthier life for yourself and your loved ones.

Will Rehab Help My Court Case?

Choosing to go to rehab can positively affect your legal case; how much it affects it, however, depends on the type of court proceedings.

Will Rehab Help My Criminal Case?

Whether you face a judge or a jury for sentencing, you stand to make an impression on the person who decides your future. While judges are constrained mainly by sentencing guidelines, there is such a thing as discretionary sentencing. In some cases, this kind of discretion could allow for a lighter sentence after considering your individual circumstances. However, these discretionary decisions are still limited by the law.

Another possibility for leniency lies in mitigating circumstances. If the court determines that you acted based on an emotional disturbance, such as if you suffer from an undiagnosed mental illness, you can receive a reduced sentence. This is called an “Unusual Circumstance.”

Other relevant mitigating circumstances include:

• Addiction. If your addiction contributed to your crime, and you attempt to receive help, it can be a mitigating circumstance.
• Difficult personal history. If you suffered traumatic or painful circumstances that may have led you to commit a crime, these could be reasons to choose a lighter sentence.
• Remorse. Showing you accept responsibility and are sorry can result in a more merciful judgment. Getting help with rehab can be a great way to show your remorse and commitment to change.

Can Rehab Help My DWI/DUI Case?

In some states, your charges cannot be automatically reduced by electing to go to rehab. However, this doesn’t mean that your judge or jury cannot use discretionary sentencing.

In many cases, counseling is a mandatory consequence of a DWI or DUI conviction. Rehab is often reserved for more serious cases, especially where someone was injured. Getting ahead of the game and entering rehab on your own can show the court that you’re serious about making changes. 

Does Rehab Affect Parental Custody?

Going into rehab for alcohol addiction will only affect custody hearings that are current or pending. It may feel like “everyone will know” and hold it against you if you go to treatment, but that is one of many myths about substance use disorder treatment and mental health services.

While someone seeking guardianship of your dependents may try to use the fact that you entered rehab against you, there are several reasons it can work in your favor:

• Going to rehab shows the judge that you are committed to changing and providing a better environment for your dependents.
• Rehab may be your best long-term solution to keep custody of your children by protecting them from harm.
• It can show your ex-spouse (or other parties seeking custody) that you are willing to invest whatever it takes to keep your kids. They may be willing to work with you more if they see this willingness to change.

What if I Miss a Custody Hearing Because I’m in Rehab?

It is better to enter into rehab with enough time to attend your custody hearings after you are discharged. If you miss a court hearing, you cannot present any evidence to the court that you’re still a viable guardian for your children. 

Hearings can be delayed if you get approval from a judge, and you can obtain permission to leave rehab for your custody hearings, but it may be wiser to get help long before it’s an issue.

You can avoid running out of time by familiarizing yourself with what to expect during residential treatment. The amount of time you are in rehab will vary based on your condition and needs.

Can You Go to Rehab if You Have a Warrant?

You will not be barred from entering rehab if there is a warrant for your arrest. However, if the authorities come to collect you, your facility may or may not advise you to turn yourself in.

In many cases, it may be safe to commit to rehab because of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), HIPAA protects sensitive information, including your medical records, from being disclosed without your knowledge or consent.

Because of these protections, recovery centers cannot disclose whether you are or aren’t in their care. If the center does not suggest you turn yourself in, you are protected. In addition, police may be more likely to respect your right to privacy and let you complete your stay. It might make them look bad, especially when it comes to your court proceedings if they force you out of treatment.

What Happens if You Go to Rehab Before Your Court Date?

If you are on probation while you wait for your court date, you may need to follow some protocol to get approval for rehab.

If you have been commanded to stay in your state and your desired facility is out of state, you will most certainly have to get approval first. In many cases, your probation officer will give you permission to seek treatment. They may require that you sign a release, so they can check in on you to make sure you’re still there.

Can I Go to Rehab if I’m Out On Bail?

Even if you are out on bail, going to rehab before your court date is possible. A rehab center will not deny you, but you should make sure that you don’t miss a court date and get hit with a “failure to appear” that could result in a warrant for your arrest. 

Some legal professionals advise that you get written confirmation from your facility that you are attending their program and send it to your lawyer or your judge, so they know you are seeking treatment. In this case, it is unlikely they will penalize you.

If you receive a bench warrant because of a failure to appear, you can have the warrant recalled by appearing in the court you were called to and showing your certificate of treatment completion. Whether or not your warrant is recalled depends completely on the discretion of the court.

How to Get Court-Ordered Rehab Instead of Jail Time?

Your eligibility for court-ordered rehab as an alternative to jail time will depend on the state. Some states may not consider rehab as an alternative if it was already a part of the mandatory sentencing. 

If you are seeking court-ordered treatment for yourself, it may be best to hire legal help who can advocate for you that this is your best option. Courts are more likely to award court-ordered rehab to people who meet these criteria:

• Your crime was non-violent.
• Your crime was a direct result of your addiction.
• You will definitely benefit from rehab.
• You qualify for a probationary sentence.

In short, you will most likely not be eligible for court-ordered rehab if you are up for a felony charge.

Your Loved Ones Can Ask for a Screening Investigation

If your approval for a screening investigation is approved, you will undergo tests by mental health professionals and cooperate with the investigations of police officers. Together, they will decide if you meet the qualifications for court-ordered treatment. In such cases, they will reschedule your hearing for after you complete treatment.

You may be assigned court-ordered treatment based on your screening if:

• You are a danger to yourself or others
• You are deemed unable to control your actions
• You are suffering from mental health or addiction problems

What Can I Do to Get a Loved One into Court-Ordered Treatment?

If you’re not looking for court-ordered treatment for yourself but are pursuing avenues of treatment for a loved one, you have options for involuntary commitment.

The process requires a great deal of paperwork and navigating your local clerks or governments. However, if certain conditions are met, you can force someone into rehab with a court order.

Generally, your loved one must meet these conditions to be considered for involuntary commitment:

• They are completely unable to control their actions either due to emotional or mental disability
• They have refused voluntary commitment and are able to understand their circumstances enough to elect to it
• They have refused or thwarted other measures taken to voluntarily commit them
• Their health or safety is at risk because of their condition

Entering Into Rehab Can Help You Turn Your Life Around

Not only can you change the course of your court cases, but you can create sustainable change that may save your life and your relationships. Studies show that those who attend rehab or get addiction treatment are much less likely to go back to jail. According to a review of current research published in Current Psychiatry Reports, there are many effective treatment models for reducing recidivism and improving treatment program retention.

If you are overwhelmed with how to begin treatment, a representative at your prospective treatment center can help you get started. Know that it will be worth the short-term and long-term benefits.

Case managers at All In Solutions Counseling Center have years of experience working with legal counsel for clients to ensure that they get the help they need while improving the outcomes of their ongoing court cases. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and have concerns about how going to treatment will impact a criminal court case, custody hearings, or your chances of going to prison, reach out today!

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Can You Force Someone Into Rehab?

Can You Force Someone Into Rehab?

Watching a loved one suffer and struggle with a substance use disorder is painful, especially if you’ve tried everything to help them. After researching and trying all these options, you may be looking at involuntary drug or alcohol rehab as a last resort. There’s a lot to consider, but it’s best to fully understand the protocol and all the resources at your disposal before you make a decision. Here’s what you need to know if you want to force someone into rehab against their will.

How to Commit Someone to Rehab Involuntarily

Laws for involuntary commitment for addiction treatment differ by state. In Florida, there are two acts enabling law enforcement to detain individuals that may be a risk to themselves or others because of mental health or substance abuse issues. There are important differences between the two.

Florida Marchman Act

If a person is unstable or dangerous to themselves or others, Florida Statutes § 397.305, also known as the Hal S. Marchman Alcohol and Other Drug Services Act, allows for a person to be voluntarily or involuntarily assessed and committed for substance abuse. Following an assessment, an individual may be court-ordered to enter a substance abuse treatment facility.

Relatives and mental health practitioners can file a petition for an assessment. There is also a provision that any three adults with knowledge of the person’s substance abuse can file. If the assessment is for a minor, the only people who can file a petition are parents, legal guardians, and a licensed service provider.

If you are one of these people for someone struggling with addiction, you can file a claim through this process:

1. Go to your local Clerk & Comptroller’s office. Fill out a sworn affidavit or petition for the assessment and treatment of your loved one. You will be asked to fill in some details to help the authorities find and identify them, as well as information about this person’s behavior.
2. Your loved one will be notified and asked to appear in court. You will be offered to testify to their behavior and the effects of substance abuse on their lives. Your loved one will also have the opportunity to testify.
3. The judge will sign an order granting the petition. If your loved one meets the qualifications stipulated in the Marchman Act, the court will notify them of their assessment appointment. Those who don’t show up to testify for themselves in court and meet the criteria will be taken to their appointment involuntarily.
4. An assessment is performed within 5 days of the judge’s decision. If the service provider conducting the assessment decides that your loved one meets the criteria for involuntary rehabilitation, they will be summoned to a hearing where a magistrate will decide the length of their stay.

Baker Act vs. Marchman Act

The Marchman Act isn’t the only means for rehabilitating a loved one. While the Marchman Act strictly applies to substance abuse, the Baker Act applies to mental health crises.

Per Florida Statutes § 394.453, a person may be voluntarily or involuntarily assessed and rehabilitated for mental health issues. The Baker Act also stipulates that the person in question may be a threat to themselves or others without treatment. There are a few other reasons a person may be subject to the Baker Act, however. These include:

• They are mentally or emotionally disabled to the point they cannot understand or control themselves or their actions.
• Other measures have been taken to voluntarily commit them, and they have refused because of mental illness.
• They refuse to voluntarily commit themselves because they are unable to understand why they should receive treatment.
• They are at risk of personal neglect because of their illness.

The process for filing a petition for assessment and rehabilitation is slightly different in the Baker Act. The process for involuntarily committing a loved one is as follows:

1.  Go to your local circuit court and issue an ex parte order.
2. After the judge grants the order, a law enforcement officer will take your loved one into custody and to a facility for safekeeping.
3. Within five days, a hearing will take place during which the court will consider whether the person in question is mentally or emotionally competent enough to give consent to treatment. If they are not, they are appointed a guardian advocate who can act on their behalf. This is most often a family member, caregiver, or friend.
4. If the court decides your loved one meets the criteria for involuntary committal, they will be sent to a facility for at least sixty days.

There are other ways a person can be involuntarily committed, including through the recommendation of a mental health professional or emergency medical practitioner.

Do Other States Have an Equivalent to Florida’s Baker Act?

In the United States, most other states have an equivalent to the Baker’s Act, though the terms and process vary wildly between them. This process is also referred to as Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT), and currently, 47 states have procedures for it.

If you are not a Florida resident and are looking for ways to help a loved one with mental health or substance abuse issues, and they will not receive help voluntarily, look into the requirements for AOT in your state. You can find a state-by-state breakdown of involuntary commitment laws here.

How to Convince a Loved One to Get Help

Committing a loved one against their will can be a life-saving last resort. However, as a family member or friend, you should make sure they are offered the opportunity to change on their own first if they are capable. The following suggestions could help encourage your loved one to seek treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. 

Consequences, Ultimatums, and Interventions

One of the most important steps in convincing someone with addiction or mental health problems to receive help is to make sure you’re not enabling their self-harming behaviors.

First, allow your loved one to experience the consequences of their actions. Of course, if they are putting themselves or someone else in harm’s way, it’s time to seek emergency help. However, it’s important that you don’t make all of their problems go away. This could include:

• Allow them to get arrested.
• Don’t bail them out of jail.
• Don’t give them money to pay the electricity bill.

Instead, offer them exchanges. For example, don’t give them money to pay the bills, but you can offer them a place to stay while they get help. Don’t give them money, but offer to pay for their treatment if that’s what you’re willing and able to do.

Ultimatums are a useful tool to help set boundaries with people who are becoming a danger to themselves and others. It also protects you from having any part in their self-destructive behavior, even by accident.

Here are some examples of ultimatums:

• If you don’t accept help, you cannot see your daughter for her own safety and well-being.
• For the sake of the mental and emotional health of the household, you are not allowed to stay here until you agree to treatment.
• Until you agree to talk with a counselor, I cannot continue to take your phone calls.

Finally, host an intervention in which you can lay down these ultimatums and lovingly express your concern for your loved one. An intervention should, above all, be a safe, un-blaming, love-filled gathering with people who want to help. 

Plan what you want to say thoroughly, use a mediator if necessary, and make sure that you do not make yourself a victim by casting blame. Pose your concerns, say how their behavior affects you, offer ultimatums, and ultimately, convince them to get help.

There are many ways to help a loved one battling addiction or mental health issues, but laying down boundaries to protect yourself, your family, and your loved one is essential. 

How do you check someone into rehab?

When you’re helping someone to check themselves into rehab voluntarily, you want to research things like rehab centers, payment, and the type of treatment your loved one can and should receive. All of these things will help you make an educated decision.

Finding an addiction treatment center: things to consider

As with any institution that provides a service, you’ll want to thoroughly research the center you’re considering. Here are some things you might want to pay attention to:

• Ratings: Reviews are the lifeblood of any institution. People trust word of mouth for a reason. Look at the kind and quality of reviews. Are they positive? Did they or their loved ones experience success in their program?
• Accreditation: Most rehab centers have their accreditations in stickers on their home page, or in their about section. Look for accreditation with the Joint Commission and the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).
• Treatment programs offered: Do they offer treatment for your loved one’s mental health condition or addiction? If they do, how diverse are their offerings? Programs with a wide variety of offerings may be preferable to centers with only a few kinds, as treatment should never be a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Insurance, Grants, and Payment Programs: Free treatment is very rare; however, finding an institution that will accept your insurance or even allow you to apply for a grant can help significantly reduce or eliminate up-front costs. Before looking into programs, make sure you know how insurance might cover rehab.
• Levels of care: The intensity and duration of care vary depending on the risk and need of the person seeking care. The levels of care from most intense to least intense are Inpatient Detox, Residential, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Outpatient care. If you’re unsure about what level of care your loved one needs or what kind of treatment would benefit them, be sure to provide plenty of information during your consultation about the needs, behaviors, and risks your loved one and your family are experiencing as a result of their mental health or addiction issues.

If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about the treatment programs offered at any All In Solutions treatment centers, don’t hesitate to reach out to our admissions team. Our treatment advocates have years of experience in helping family members get their loved ones into rehab and can help you explore all the options available to you.

Can You Force Someone Into Rehab?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group

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