Category: Addiction

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Finding Sobriety, Strength, and Hope as an “Alcoholic in Long-Term Recovery”

This week’s podcast episode features one of our Recovery.com cohosts, Cliff McDonald! Cliff is the Chief Growth Officer at Recovery.com and identifies as an alcoholic in long-term recovery. In this episode, Cliff shares his recovery story and details his path as a successful entrepreneur, Wall Street businessman, coach, father, and mentor. 

You can find Cliff’s episode and listen to our past guests here. 

“A Ticking Time Bomb”

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Cliff was raised in a robust Irish Catholic drinking culture. His father, a Boston police officer and professional boxer, along with his grandfather, a decorated World War II veteran, both drank heavily. Alcohol was a staple at family gatherings, where even as a child, Cliff had “sips of beer” and occasionally Jameson whiskey. By 13, Cliff had not gotten used to alcohol but to also anticipate opportunities to drink.

“I had this other life where I was getting severely intoxicated with my friends since I was 13 years old. And that was a secret. And that remained a secret for a long time, until it didn’t. So, I experienced wholeheartedly the progressive nature of this disease.”

Cliff played football in high school and at Dartmouth College, where he sank deeper into the party culture and drinking habits of fraternities. His once-stellar grades dropped. At this point, he started noticing how he drank more than everyone else and seemed more reliant on it, especially during the off-season.

Cliff followed most of his college peers to Wall Street and made a successful career. He married and moved to Madison, WI, where he opened and ran several Irish pubs. Then, his father passed away at just age of 55, which Cliff suspects was because of his drinking. 

The slow-burning fuse became a racing flame. 

Gradual Descent to a Public Rock Bottom

As Cliff navigated the challenges of losing his father, managing a business, and balancing the responsibilities of parenting and marriage, drinking shifted from a habit to a necessity. He expanded his career beyond owning Irish pubs by taking on the role of COO at a company. But during visits to check on the pubs, what started as a routine beer gradually escalated to a beer paired with a shot. About this, Cliff says, 

“So these little changes, right, over time, and then, the next phase, which ended up being this real, real chaos for about 18 months, two years, when I became severely alcoholic.”

After having one too many at a company party, Cliff was let go. In 2018, he went to rehab for the first time but checked himself out after 14 days. His counselor said he’d see him again. Cliff recalls, 

“So I went home here to Madison and I had 90 days of sobriety. Brutal sobriety. Not going to meetings, not having a sponsor, just white knuckling it.”

And then, 

“After 90 days, I decided that it would be okay to have a drink.”

Wading Through The Mire

Life darkened after that drink. Cliff’s wife didn’t want him living in their house if he drank again, and held firm to that. He ended up in his own apartment, unemployed, and drinking around the clock. 

“I think I was drinking to die. And, really, no will to live.”

Cliff also remembers, 

“People were reaching out to me for a while, like, checking in, and I remember I wouldn’t answer the phone a lot, because I didn’t want to talk to people, and I was hiding.” … “Then the phone stopped ringing, and I had never felt alone in my whole life, and I was alone in this apartment without, it’s crazy, with no one near me, no one checking in on me.”

After not hearing from him for a few days, Cliff’s wife made a welfare check and found Cliff needing dire help. He returned to treatment after detoxing in a hospital for 6 days. 

Rising to Recovery

Cliff’s second time at rehab had a much different effect. Remembering what his counselor told him this second time, Cliff quotes, 

“”Some people are alone. You’re not. You have people who still love you and still care for you.” And it hit me. Like it hit me and it hit me hard.”

A spiritual experience and working the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous set Cliff on the path of long-recovery. After rehab he went to sober living, and then got a sponsor. His therapist at the sober living home told him: 

“She referred to me as a ticking time bomb. She was like, it’s amazing. You held it together as long as you did, and you were just destined to explode. And you did. Now we can do the rebuilding, but let’s dive into why.”

As for what kept him on the path to recovery the second time, Cliff says, 

“So therapy was huge. Prayer and meditation is huge. Fellowship is huge.”

Now, Cliff sponsors other men in recovery and brings his lived experience with addiction and the treatment space to his work as our Chief Growth Officer. He’s also written a book, called Don’t Sell, Generate Revenue. You can buy that here. 


Cliff credits his recovery and his Higher Power with reinstating his creativity, leading him to entrepreneurship and business success again, and being the husband and father he wants to be. Listen to his episode on the Recovery.com Podcast to hear more!

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Challenges in Education: COVID-19, Addiction, and Mental Health

Newer generations have had to hurdle many new challenges in their education—a global pandemic, a rise in school violence, and an unmet demand for mental health and addiction treatment. COVID-19, in particular, completely shifted how school and socializing worked, and many students still feel those effects. 

These challenges have brought a rise in mental health and addiction struggles in teens despite their resilience and desire for treatment. Fortunately, students and their families have many resources for healing. Dr. Dana Battaglia highlights some of these resources in our recent podcast episode; listen here.

Stats on Addiction in School-Age Kids

Kids and teens often experiment with substances like alcohol and tobacco. “Study drugs” like Adderall often pass hands1 during finals or other testing seasons. School can be an easy place to get and distribute vapes, marijuana, and “hard” drugs like cocaine. Alcohol is the most commonly used and abused substance2 among teens, followed by marijuana and tobacco products. Here are the stats at a glance:

  • 61.5% of teens have overused alcohol by their senior year
  • In 2022, 407,000 teens 12-17 years old met criteria for alcohol use disorder
  • 35.2% of teens smoked or vaped marijuana in 2022
  • 788,000 teens ages 12-17 met criteria for illicit drug use disorder in 2022 (1-in-8 teens)
  • Half of teens have misused a substance once or more

Between 2016 and 2020, the rate of 8th graders taking drugs went up 61%. One in 8 teens abuse drugs, making youth drug use a major public health concern2. Not only does substance use damage their health and well-being, but it can also impact their ability to do well academically and advance to college. 

Social acceptance and peer pressure could initiate substance use. For example, teens may feel pressured to drink at a party to fit in and not seem like a ‘downer.’ Drinking in these situations can progress into drinking in other situations, like casual hangouts with friends or even alone in their room. 

Similar to alcohol, vaping has been normalized among teens, leading to a reported 2.1 million teens using vapes in the U.S3. Well over half of teens want to quit but haven’t had successful attempts. Starting tobacco use as a teen often leads to continued use in adulthood.

Mental Health Stats in School-Age Kids

Mental health conditions, especially untreated, can also impact students’ abilities to succeed in school and maintain their well-being. Mental health conditions can also lead to substance use4 as a coping mechanism, potentially leading to addiction. These are some stats on mental health conditions in students:

When mental health conditions affect a student’s ability to learn, they’re classified as having an “emotional disturbance.” Having an emotional disturbance makes students eligible for an individual education program6 (IEP), which offers more personalized education services and catered support services to help students succeed. However, few students get this important support. Many schools and teachers don’t have the resources to care for these students, leading to more suspensions and removals. 

Solutions center around seamless, integrated care—mental health support, educational support, and parental support all in one place: school. 

Impact of COVID-19 on Teen Education and Well-Being

Lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic changed how teens and children got their education, socialized, and learned. Many lost out on major milestones like graduation and prom. In-person classrooms became Zoom meetings on small Chromebook screens. As schools and educators adapted for virtual learning, new problems took root. 

A survey done by the Center for Disease Control7 reported these findings:

  • Of U.S. high school students, 67% felt like schoolwork got harder
  • 55% suffered emotional abuse at home
  • 11% suffered physical abuse
  • 24% didn’t have enough to eat during the pandemic

Adding in isolation and loneliness, these factors could strongly impact learning and teen mental health. Students also reported excessive homework and assignments8, lack of motivation, and difficulty with finding a balance between school and life. Those who needed extra help in the classroom lost access to the in-person, 1-1 attention required to help them stay on track. 

Students also lost the vital social interactions offered in a classroom. One student says9, 

“Learning without the social cues of a classroom was difficult. At in-person school, I took notes when I could see that everyone around me did. During Zoom, I didn’t know what I was supposed to be doing.” 


The National Center for Education Statistics found that in 2022, 9-year-olds scored lower in both reading and math10 compared to 2020. Reading scores saw their biggest drop in over 30 years, and math scores went down for the first time ever recorded. These changes happened because of COVID-19 disruptions like school closures and virtual learning. Despite these challenges, teachers, parents, and communities helped support students and prevented scores from falling even further. The same student from above echoes that, saying,

“People adapt and become stronger even with uncertainty. I can deal with it too.”

Preventative Measures and Available Resources for Healing

Students with mental health conditions, whether influenced by COVID or not, have multiple resources available for healing. But they often don’t know they’re there. 

Overwhelmed schools and staff can rarely provide the awareness many students need to know they have resources available, like access to school counselors, therapists, and state-funded mental health programs. Adequate awareness of these resources could help students access crucial mental health and addiction support before issues affect their learning and well-being. 

Students can also access resources outside of school, like therapy, intensive outpatient programs, or youth-focused crisis services. Many crisis services focus specifically on youths and certain demographics, like LGBTQ+ teens. Here are a few lines you can call or text:

  • TrevorLifeline: help for LGBTQ+ young adults needing support. Text 678678, call (866) 488-7386, or chat with them online.  
  • Hey Sam: peer support for people up to 24 years old. Text 439-726 from 9AM to 12AM ET and talk about anything on your mind.
  • Teen Line: support and resources for teens offered by highly trained volunteers. Call (800) 852-8336, text 839863, and chat online.

Future Goals and Ideas

Students showed resiliency through the COVID-19 pandemic and day-to-day struggles with mental health conditions and addiction. Gen Z takes an active stance in reducing their likelihood of addiction by drinking less11, up to 20% less than Millennials. Wellness trends, better awareness on mental health and addiction, and viewing mental health as important as physical health add up to make an inspiring impact.

Encouragement from schools, parents, and peers to maintain this momentum could reduce addiction and related mental health conditions in an entire generation. 

More mental health staff at schools could support this positive change and extend it to younger generations. For example, a school may employ a social worker for every grade who can provide in-the-moment crisis support, connect students to available care options, and educate parents on the support needed. 

Schools could also change or reduce punishments for substance use. As an example, catching a student vaping or drinking on-campus could automatically enroll them in an educational after-school program rather than a suspension. Mandatory education on drinking, drug use, and mental health conditions could also teach students the dangers of substance use and prevent addiction before it starts.

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Tom Farley: A Legacy of Laughter and Healing

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Tune in to our podcast featuring Tom Farley!

Tom Farley, a native of Madison, Wisconsin, has become a pillar in substance abuse prevention and mental health advocacy. His academic pursuits at Georgetown University, culminating in a Marketing degree, initially steered him toward the bustling world of banking and finance in New York City. However, life’s twists and turns redirected him towards a more personal and impactful mission.

Reaching and Educating Youth Through Humor

In 1999, Tom established The Chris Farley Foundation, a tribute to his late brother, Chris Farley, a renowned actor and comedian known for his infectious laughter. The foundation swiftly distinguished itself with a groundbreaking approach to substance abuse prevention, harnessing the power of humor to create engaging educational programs for young people. This innovative strategy captivated young audiences and sparked crucial conversations about health and safety.

Expanded Awareness and Healing

Under Tom’s leadership, the foundation launched numerous initiatives that have significantly influenced youth behavior and perception of substance use. His commitment to this cause deepened with the publication of “The Chris Farley Show” in 2008. This New York Times bestselling biography, co-authored by Tom, offered an intimate glimpse into the highs and lows of Chris Farley’s life and career, further cementing his brother’s legacy while shedding light on the severe issues of addiction and mental health.

Tom’s outreach, experiences, and insights have been recognized on national platforms, including Larry King Live, Fox News,  The View, and in major news publications, including People Magazine, USA Today, and numerous other national and regional outlets.

A Leader in Advocacy and Service

Beyond his foundational work, Tom has actively participated in community service. He has served on the Dane County Human Services board and the boards of several non-profits, advocating for comprehensive social services and support systems. His dedication to community welfare is a testament to his belief in proactive, compassionate community engagement.

Tom is the Professional Relations Coordinator for Rosecrance Behavioral Health in Wisconsin, where he champions prevention and recovery. He remains pivotal in this role, guiding initiatives promoting mental wellness and substance abuse prevention. His reputation as a motivational speaker is well-earned; his speeches inspire audiences nationwide, emphasizing resilience, recovery, and the critical importance of maintaining mental health.

Tom Farely: Honoring a Legacy and Leaving One of His Own

Residing in his hometown of Madison, Tom Farley’s relentless pursuit of a better, healthier community through laughter and advocacy exemplifies a legacy of humor and profound hope and healing. His life’s work, inspired by personal tragedy, continues to offer solace and support to those affected by substance abuse, making a lasting difference in countless lives.

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101 Ways to Jump Into Recovery for the New Year

As the new year dawns, it’s an opportune moment to consider recovery and let it transform your life. At Recovery.com, we are committed to empowering you with practical strategies to jump into recovery. Our comprehensive guide offers you 101 practical ways to start and support your recovery, encompassing various aspects of well-being. Wherever you may be in your journey, remember to: 

  • First and foremost, remember to be honest. Find someone you can be brutally honest with about your recovery and all its ups and downs. The journey won’t be perfect, and that’s alright. 
  • Seek professional help and support. You can use our website, Recovery.com, to find treatment that meets your needs. 
  • Set realistic and achievable goals.
  • Practice and prioritize self-care.
  • Nourish your body.
  • Listen to your mind-body-spirit and heart.

Educational Resources

Books, articles, videos and websites can provide information on a variety of topics related to addiction and mental health. These resources can be helpful for people struggling with addiction or mental health issues, as well as for their families and friends. They can educate on the causes of addiction and mental health disorders, the different types of treatment available, and how to coexist and cope with these conditions. Here are some websites and articles to get you started: 

1. Recovery.com Resource Library

2. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

3. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

4. The American Psychological Association (APA)

5. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

6. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)

7. The Suicide Prevention Resource Center

8. Consider furthering your education as an investment in yourself (and/or your loved one). Obtaining a certificate, academic degree, or simply engaging in general continuing education are all great ways to do this and learn more about recovery.

Crisis Support

Crisis support provides immediate help to people who are experiencing a crisis or traumatic event. Crisis support can help people cope with strong emotions, develop/recall/access a safety plan, and practice healthy coping mechanisms. It can also help people connect with resources and services that can provide ongoing support. Here are a few to get you started: 

9. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: call 988

10. The Crisis Text Line: text 741741

11. SAMHSA’s free, confidential helpline for addiction and mental health needs: call 1-800-662-4357

12. National Domestic Violence Hotline: call 1-800-787-3224

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes, big and small, can help you improve your overall wellbeing. When you make these changes, you can help improve your mood, reduce the risk of, and/or better manage, depression, anxiety, and stress. And, you can improve your overall quality of life. 

13. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins.

14. Commit to regular exercise. 

15. Aim for good quality sleep, then focus on the quantity that works for you (learn more below!)

16. Reduce stress with relaxation techniques.

17. Spend time with loved ones. 

18. Prioritize hobbies and other activities that bring you joy.

19. Seek professional mental health or addiction help. You can use our website, Recovery.com, to browse treatment centers and connect with one that meets your needs.  

20. Prioritize healthy, recovery-conducive online and in-person environments.

21. Purposefully spend time offline and away from social media. 

Physical Health Focus 

Our physical health plays a significant role in our mental health and well-being. We are more likely to feel good about ourselves and to have a more optimistic outlook on life as we work on improving and maintaining good physical health. Consider these suggestions and tools to get you started: 

22. Create an exercise plan that fits your lifestyle, so you can commit to it regularly and consistently. 

23. Create a weekly meal plan, so you can eat well and nourish your body. 

24. Spend time in nature, even if it’s your local park. 

25. Practice stretching and yoga. 

26. Try a new physical activity to keep you excited and engaged, such as martial arts or dance.

27. Join a gym or fitness center.

28. Have an accountability partner and/or workout buddy. 

29. Consider hiring a personal trainer or signing up for an online fitness course. 

30. Take scheduled breaks from technology. 

31. Make an effort to be physically active each day, like going on a quick walk or taking the stairs. Small efforts add up!

32. Monitor your progress. Wearable technology, like a fitness watch, can help you track and log workouts, what you eat, and even how much sleep you’re getting.  

Food & Nutrition 

Good food and nutrition are essential for overall health and the recovery journey. A healthy diet can help improve mood, energy levels, and sleep quality1. It can also help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression2. Nutrients are important for brain health and can help improve cognitive function as well. Here are some suggestions to get you started: 

33. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. 

34. Choose whole grains over refined grains. 

35. Limit unhealthy fats, like trans fat (preservative oils found in most processed foods) and saturated fats (whole milk, red meat, and cheese). 

36. Avoid added sugar. Look at a product’s nutrition label to see if there is added sugar.

37. When reading food labels, pay close attention to ingredient names that sound like chemicals. These ingredients may be harmful to your health, so it’s important to be aware of them and avoid them if possible.

38. Eat when you’re hungry, and be mindful of your body’s hunger and satiety signals.

39. Consistently eating enough to fuel your mind and body—and if you struggle to eat enough, be sure to tell your doctor.

40. Stay hydrated. Each person needs a unique amount of water to stay hydrated, but you can aim to drink before and after every meal and have a cup every hour.

41. Eat a variety of healthy foods that will nourish your mind and body. 

42. Cook at home more often. Try ordering meal kits or shopping regularly for a few key items.

43. Be mindful of your eating habits, and consider a meal planning tracker/tool. 

44. Consider consulting a nutritionist or dietician to help you with your dietary goals.

45. You can test for food allergies using online kits and resources. Knowing what your body does and doesn’t process well, or at all, can help you plan meals tailored to your body. 

Self-Reflection and Spiritual Practice 

Self-reflection and spiritual practice can contribute to a healthy and fulfilling life. Such practices can help with examining our thoughts, feelings and actions, and ultimately, gain a deeper understanding of ourselves. Self-reflection and spiritual practice can also serve as coping mechanisms and tools to cope with stress, depression and anxiety. There are many different ways to practice self-reflection and spiritual growth. It is important to find practices that work for you. Here are some suggestions to get you started on finding yours:

46. Start by listening to yourself. Take time daily to process your own emotions and needs.

47. Consider utilizing other modes of expression to connect with yourself and your beliefs, like art, singing, and dancing.

48. Surround yourself with positive people that lift you up and offer support. 

49. Set up boundaries to maintain your positivity and goals. 

50. Practice gratitude. You can write down 5+ things you’re grateful for as soon as you wake up, before you go to bed, or before you meditate. 

51. Consider journaling. You can write down thoughts and process strong emotions as they come, or set a time each day to journal. 

52. Learn to forgive yourself and focus on progress, not perfection. Believe in yourself and remind yourself where you are, where you started, and where you’re on the way to being.

53. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and support from others. 

54. Meditation, prayer, and connecting with nature can help you quiet your mind and focus on the present moment while expressing your thoughts and feelings.

55. Celebrate your successes! 

56. Seek community in your religious group of preference. Some organizations have weekly groups and resources specifically for recovery. 

Mental Health & Wellness 

Improving your mental health can help you avoid relapses and better your overall well-being. One of your best resources for mental wellness is therapy and connecting with mental health professionals. But, you can also use practices and tools to improve your mental health and compliment what you’re learning in therapy. Here’s a few options to consider:

57. Practice mindfulness and meditation. 

58. Seek out a mental health professional based on your needs. Setting an appointment with a therapist, counselor, or psychologist can help you heal.

59. Create a toolbox of resources to help with relaxation, stress management, and more. 

60. Be open to new, healthy, coping mechanisms and tools that can help you grow as a person. 

61. Be proud of your progress!

62. Connect with others. 

63. Identify your stress management emergency plan (hint: keep your wellness toolbox handy).

64. Remember, recovery is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs, and that is ok. Don’t give up!

65. Tap into your creativity to express emotions. You can try painting, drawing, doodling, embroidery, writing, poetry, and so much more.

Sleep Optimization & Hygiene  

Sleep hygiene is very important. But as you explore improving it, think about it this way: work on the quality first, then focus on quantity. The important highlights are consistency and rhythm of routine. Once the quality of your sleep improves, you work on sleeping more.  Recommendations often state 7-8 hours of sleep, but we may need more or less as we go through various stages of life. Listening to this, and analyzing why, is important. Here’s some other tips to bear in mind: 

66. Wake up at the same time every morning.

67. Create a bedtime routine that you can stick to daily. 

68. Try to view light from the sunrise and sunset each day. This helps realign your melatonin release system.

69. Limit screen time for at least one hour before bed.

70. Limit blue and white for at least 2 hours before bedtime–dim your lights or enjoy candlelight to stimulate melatonin release.

71. Read a boring book to help you get sleepy. Don’t read something that will get your heart rate going—think educational books, autobiographies, or most non-fiction novels. 

72. Create a comfortable, soothing environment to sleep. Remember, your bed/bedroom is your sleeping sanctuary. Set the mood with ambient lighting, essential oils, and soft music.

73. Exercise can help make you more tired at bedtime. Consider activities like yoga, walking, jogging, or any other physical activity you like. 

74. Address any sleep concerns you may have, like sleep apnea.

75. Don’t read the news, watch TV, or engage in other exciting activities before bed. 

76. Make sure your bed is only used for sleeping—don’t work, eat, or lounge on your bed unless you’re lying down to sleep.

77. Set a morning routine that gives you plenty of time to complete morning chores and settle into your day. This can make waking up less stressful.

78. Take prescribed or herbal supplements as recommended/prescribed by your doctor. Be sure to take them only as prescribed.

79. If you aren’t falling asleep or feeling very sleepy within 30 minutes, get up and walk around, have a soothing beverage, or read a calming book until you start feeling tired.

80. Consider setting up a white noise machine or wearing earplugs if small noises wake you up and disrupt your sleep.

81. Prioritize sleep and maintain your bedtime routine—make new plans with friends or go home a little earlier to get to bed on time.

82. Some people experience ASMR (​​autonomous sensory meridian response) in response to visuals and sounds, which can make you feel relaxed and sleepy. You can try watching ASMR videos on YouTube or other video platforms.

83. If you’re struggling to consistently get 7-8 hours of sleep, or don’t feel rested after your usual hours of sleep, you can seek professional help from a doctor, psychiatrist, or sleep psychologist.

84. Meditate! When your thoughts wander and become stressful, practice meditation or pray to center yourself and change your focus.

Stress Management

Managing stress can help you cope with triggers and stressful events without turning to substances to cope. Stress management can help during small issues and big life events, making it a valuable tool for your recovery toolkit. Here’s a few ideas to jumpstart your toolkit:

85. Make it a habit to journal each day to process your day, reflect on what you’ve accomplished, and identify your goals for tomorrow.

86. Take small breaks as you work or study.

87. Spend time in nature as often as you can. On one of your breaks, for example, you could step outside or out on your balcony.

88. Make time to walk, play with, or snuggle your pets. Pets can soothe stress and calm your body.

89. Set up regular therapy appointments to discuss what’s stressing you and to learn practical coping skills.

90. Practice mindfulness and meditation throughout the day. This could be as simple as 2 minutes of deep, conscious breathing.

91. Eat well; prioritize healthy foods to nourish your mind and body.

92. Avoid or consume less caffeine and sugar. Caffeine in particular can make you jittery and more anxious. 

93. Talk to a friend or loved one about your day.

94. Try new hobbies, like baking, crocheting, or painting to soothe stress and enjoy a creative outlet.

95. Listen to upbeat music or anything that lifts your mood. This could be a podcast, too.

96. Create a stress log and jot down what happened during the day and what your levels of stress were. This can help you identify pain points and move forward with healing.

97. Drink water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and in homeostasis.

98. Set up a cozy, comfortable place in your home and pick up a good book.

99. Optimize your environment to reduce stress—decorate, light candles, open your windows, and more to make it a place you can go to for comfort.

100. Write down a list of activities, things, or people that you know help alleviate stress to keep all your coping tools quick and easy to access.

101. Connect with peer support before, during and after treatment. You may use an app, attend a recovery peer support meeting, or connect with an online group of people in recovery.

Contributions by Sarah Shawaker and Grace Ogren

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What Is Carfentanil?

Carfentanil is a fentanyl analog, or a synthetic opioid chemically similar to fentanyl. It’s 100 times more potent than fentanyl and 10,000 times more potent than morphine. Because of that, carfentanil is considered the strongest and most dangerous fentanyl derivative. 

People usually take carfentanil by accident. But since you need so little (about one grain of salt) to overdose, these accidental uses can quickly become life-threatening. 

What Is Carfentanil Used For?

Carfentanil has only one approved use: a large-animal tranquilizer. The veterinary field uses carfentanil on elephants and other similarly sized animals; it’s not approved for human use in any way.

But in illicit drug markets, dealers use carfentanil to increase the potency of their drugs and sell them for more money. Additives like carfentanil make drugs like heroin feel stronger, leading to faster dependency and continued profit for the dealer. 

Carfentanil easily blends into other substances, so you never truly know if you’re taking a clean or laced substance. Even fentanyl test strips often don’t pick up on carfentanil. To the naked eye, carfentanil doesn’t stand out against the substance you think you’re taking—which is why it poses such a risk.

What Does Carfentanil Look Like?

Carfentanil looks white and powdery, like powdered sugar. If it’s been dissolved into a liquid, it can look as innocent as water. It may also look grainy, like salt grains. Carfentanil has no smell or taste. 

Dealers manipulate carfentanil to create new ways of ingestion. For example, you could take carfentanil as a pill, inject it intravenously, snort it as a powder, or place a small piece of carfentanil-soaked blotter paper on your tongue for a few minutes.  

What Are The Potential Effects of Using Carfentanil?

As a synthetic opioid, carfentanil’s effects mirror those of heroin, including:

Euphoria

Carfentanil is a mu-opioid receptor agonist, which means it triggers mu-opioid receptors to send a cascade of chemical signals in your brain. This ultimately releases dopamine, and lots of it. The flood of dopamine causes both euphoria and the need to repeat the behavior. 

Pain Relief

When used as prescribed, opioids work as powerful pain relievers. Carfentanil is no different. It calms the neurons in certain areas of the brain, leading to pain relief. But because of its potency, no amount of carfentanil has been approved for pain relief. 

Sedation

Carfentanil can calm the brain and nervous system to the point of total sedation. That’s why veterinarians use carfentanil to sedate large animals. 

Overdose

Carfentanil overdoses continue to rise in the US. Just two milligrams of carfentanil could kill you. Anything below that tiny amount would likely cause a non-lethal overdose. 

What Are The Symptoms of Carfentanil Overdose?

Overdosing on carfentanil causes a host of side effects. Even accidental exposure to carfentanil, like getting some of it on your hand or having the powder blow on your face, could cause an overdose. Knowing the signs of an overdose can help save lives. 

Blue Lips And Nails

Look at the nail beds and lips for blue coloration. Carfentanil overdoses can cause low blood pressure and a dangerously slow heart rate, which can lower breathing and oxygen intake. Less oxygen in the blood makes it look blue in areas like the lips and fingertips.

Choking And Gurgling

Overdosing on carfentanil can slow your breathing and dangerously sedate you. Because of this, you may choke on your spit or be too disoriented to remember to swallow it. That can cause choking and gurgly breathing, almost like snoring.

Pin-Point Pupils

A carfentanil overdose often causes tiny pupils. Someone who’s overdosed may have strangely small pupils that don’t dilate in different lighting.

Slowed Breathing

Your breathing may slow to null if you overdose on carfentanil. This can then lead to black outs, blue fingers and lips, and death.

Losing Consciousness

Overdosing on carfentanil could cause you to black out. The reasons for losing consciousness can include sedation/sleepiness, slow breathing, slowed heart rate, and a combination of all 3. 

Hypothermia

Someone who overdosed on carfentanil may feel cold to the touch, shiver, and have a bluish tint. 

Clammy Skin

Carfentanil overdoses also cause clammy skin, or like someone’s slightly sweaty and cold at the same time. 

Heart Failure

Too much carfentanil could cause total heart failure. An overdose can depress your central nervous system enough to stop your heart. Without immediate help, this symptom often leads to death.

Can You Reverse a Carfentanil Overdose?

You can save someone who’s overdosed on carfentanil by immediately using Naloxone. If you administer it fast enough, you can reverse the effects of carfentanil and save their life. Since carfentanil is so potent, you’ll likely need several strong doses of Naloxone. You can inject it intravenously or, if your kit includes a nasal spray, squirt it up their nose.

 If you’re injecting Naloxone (Narcan), be sure to fill the syringe with liquid and not air. Then poke the needle into a large muscle, like a shoulder or thigh muscle. To administer the nasal spray, stick the nozzle into their nose and push up on the plunger. You’ll likely need to spray into each nostril. Narcan takes 2-3 minutes to show effects. 

Once stabilized and physically safe, treatment begins. 

Get Treatment for Opioid Use

Treatment for synthetic drugs like carfentanil includes medical and emotional care. You’ll begin with detox, which safely removes carfentanil from your body. Once carfentanil is out of your system, you and your treatment team will address the thoughts and behaviors leading to your drug use. Then, you’ll work together to learn new coping skills and navigate difficult emotions, cravings, and triggers as they come. 

Your treatment journey may begin in a residential rehab, where you’ll have 24/7 care, 1:1 and group therapies, and a safe space to detox. After residential treatment, you can move into day treatment or an intensive outpatient program, which provides intensive but more independent care.
To start your journey, you can browse our list of rehabs for opioid use to see pricing, photos, reviews, and more.

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Codependency and Addiction: Understand the Relationship and Get Help

Codependency and addiction have a complex relationship. A codependent person may unwittingly enable their loved one to keep using substances without consequences. The codependent person themself may struggle with an addiction to cope with the pain of codependency. 

Addiction often results from codependency, as codependents may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with their issues and to fill an emotional void. Codependency can also lead to addiction by enabling an individual to continue substance use even when it harms their health or relationships. Someone with a substance use disorder may also be more likely to form codependent relationships to gain approval and validation.

Addiction and codependency can feed into each other—though one hasn’t yet been found to definitively cause the other. Codependency doesn’t just happen in a relationship with someone with an addiction, either. 

To find help for codependency and addiction, you can attend peer-support groups, therapy, and go to a rehab that focuses on codependency. 

Codependency: What Is It And Where Does it Come From?

Codependency is a type of dysfunctional relationship where one person has a dependent pattern of behavior that’s emotionally destructive to themselves and/or the other person. It’s typically characterized by an excessive emotional, physical, or psychological reliance on another person—to the point of neglecting your own needs. Codependents also tend to be overly controlling of the other person in their relationship.

Codependency isn’t a diagnosis, nor does it have a mutually agreed upon definition. Some psychologists, scientists, and members of the public think the traits of codependency could just be part of the emotional human experience. 

Others argue codependency can be separated from the bulk of human experiences as a unique adaptation to stress, trauma, unstable childhoods, and living with someone with an addiction. And as codependency becomes a more common phenomenon, more people may realize they fit into its broad definition. 

Generally, a codependent person will aim to control another person or situation by losing themself in the other’s desires and perceived needs. They accept unacceptable behavior as a way to maintain some control of the situation or of the other person. But this can make them disappear—hiding away to continually meet others’ needs. 

Where Does Codependency Come From?

Some definitions of codependency suggest it only develops if someone you live with has an addiction. More accurately, the source of codependency may stem from personality, childhood experiences, trauma, and an intermingling of each. Living with someone who has an addiction can certainly cause codependent tendencies. 

And, none of those factors can cause codependency, too. Some people who live with a person with an addiction may never struggle with codependency. Studies have proven an addicted spouse or child isn’t the sole cause of codependency; but for some family members, addiction can be a catalyst. Someone with childhood trauma may never become codependent either, but it’s a common cause since childhood shapes your adult personality.

Childhood Roots of Codependency

Someone who grew up in a dysfunctional or emotionally distant family may resort to codependency to survive—taking on more responsibilities than they should, making others’ emotions their duty to manage, and losing their true self in the instability of those they seek to control. Doing this may offer a sense of safety and security. 

Codependency in childhood usually causes codependency in adulthood. A child of an alcoholic parent, for example, may gravitate toward a spouse with drinking problems because that unstable relationship feels normal, as does forfeiting their sense of self for safety and control. Being in fight-or-flight mode during childhood can cause a codependent to seek that feeling in adulthood. Someone who takes them out of fight-or-flight mode may feel too unfamiliar, and even daunting, to pursue.

Addiction in Both Parties

As defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), “addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences.” Addiction can affect the codependent, the other in their relationship, or both of them. 

A person with substance addiction isn’t the only half of a codependent relationship that can struggle with an addiction. Often, a codependent person will use alcohol, drugs, sex, food, and other substances to manage the pain of codependency. Addressing substance use in both parties can help the relationship heal as a whole.  

The Relationship Between Codependency And Addiction

A spouse, parent, or sibling may become codependent as a way to manage the turmoil of their loved one’s addiction. Someone with an active addiction often has unpredictable emotions, behaviors, and moods. Their codependent will likely appease their every whim to self-manage their unreliability. 

A codependent person also believes they can force their loved one to stop using out of sheer will—or by succumbing to their every need and demand, hoping they can abate the feelings causing them to drink or use drugs. Failing to stop the substance use may drive the codependent to drugs, alcohol, or risky behaviors to cope with that pain.

Someone who’s codependent can enable their loved one’s addiction by accepting the behavior. Codependent people often live in denial—denial of their loved one’s addiction, how they need help, how they both need help—as a way to manage the problem. 

Denying the issue can give it fuel. The person with addiction may knowingly or unknowingly take advantage of that denial to continue using without consequences. So, their addiction may get worse, as would how they treat their codependent partner. The codependent, meanwhile, resorts further and further to their codependent tendencies to find some element of control. And so the cycle continues.

A lack of control and a codependent’s limitless desire for control can perpetuate their codependent behaviors. They may reason that if they just keep trying, they’ll eventually gain control; one day it’ll work and they’ll never drink again. But, as many come to realize, you can’t force someone out of addiction.

Challenges of Breaking The Cycle

The codependent may feel too scared or anxious to stop seeking control through appeasing their spouse/child/parent. They may also fear speaking up about their emotional pain, or even recognizing it at all. 

Someone with an addiction could find it easier to stay addicted if their partner goes along with it or pretends they can’t see it. They might not consider treatment, thinking they’ve “got it handled” and don’t need help. Over time, and without any treatment, their addiction can worsen. 

The codependent often experiences an addictive cycle of emotions. They can go from extreme lows to extreme highs, depending on how their partner treats them. The codependent may crave the next high just as a drug user craves a drug high. 

Treatment And Recovery

Professional treatment can help you find the cause of your codependency traits and develop new ways to manage a lack of control, real and perceived. Each person in a codependent relationship can benefit from treatment.

Treatment for The Codependent

Codependents can benefit from psychoeducation and taking a dive into their childhood. Psychoeducation teaches a codependent the “why” behind their behaviors, including the biochemical reactions that make the cycle so hard to leave. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help a codependent recognize the traits of codependency and examine the emotions behind them. Since most codependents have had a traumatic or dysfunctional childhood, CBT sessions will likely focus on your childhood to find the root belief behind your emotions and behaviors. 

For example, you may believe others’ needs are your responsibility and will feel guilty if you don’t completely satisfy their needs. This ingrained belief may have begun in childhood, perhaps because of an emotionally volatile, mentally unwell, physically unwell, or addicted parent. CBT will help you identify what caused that belief and the guilt related to it, then change your coping tool (codependency).  

You can also benefit from peer support and self-help groups, whether they’re 12-Step-based or not. Support groups can help you find an explanation for your experience and others who share it. Other resources, like books and podcasts, can also help a codependent understand their traits and heal. Here’s a few books you could check out:

Treatment for The Partner

The “partner” in a codependent relationship could be your romantic partner, but it broadly refers to the other person in your codependent relationship. That could be your spouse, child, parent, relative, or close friend. 

The codependent partner may not mean to drive someone to codependency. A codependent’s empathy and conscientiousness might be so highly attuned to negative emotions that healthy expressions of sadness, anger, or other negative emotions could trigger their partner’s codependent traits. 

But in some cases, if not most, the codependent’s partner has similar traits as the dysfunctional or abusive parent(s) the codependent grew up with. They have poor relationships in adulthood because it feels normal. That means a codependent is more likely to fall for a narcissist, an abuser, or someone exploitative. 

When your partner has a personality disorder, an addiction, or dark personality traits, they need professional treatment to heal. Treatment for addiction, for example, can help your partner address the cause of their addiction and identify new coping strategies for difficult emotions. After treatment, you’ll hopefully find your partner much more stable, reciprocative, and safe. In those cases, your codependent traits may fade because you simply don’t need them anymore. 

Once your partner has received proper treatment, you could both attend couples therapy. Here, you’ll address what triggers your codependency traits. Your partner will learn more about how it works for you and how they can help. They may also be able to reassure you that codependency isn’t their intent for you and that they’ll work with you to get well.

You and your family can also attend family therapy to address codependency in your family and how it affects each member. 

Prevention And Self-Care Strategies for Codependency

One way to prevent codependency is to educate yourself on what it is and what causes it. If you do recognize it in yourself, you can seek professional treatment and practice self-care strategies to prevent it from getting worse. Some strategies you can try include:

  • Practice self-acceptance. Each day, try to take stock of the times you blame yourself for someone else’s negative emotions. Then, challenge the blame. Write down the process and your thoughts on it. See if you can make it a daily habit. 
  • Surround yourself with people who make you feel safe. Can you identify people in your life who don’t make you feel responsible for their emotions? People who make you feel safe being yourself? Keep them close as you navigate your codependency.
  • Set aside time just for you. Spend an hour, three hours, or any amount of time however you want—just not on the other person in your codependent relationship. Take a bath, go to the library, or take a walk. Anything that sounds nice to you. 
  • Pursue what brings you joy. Rekindle old hobbies or try something new to give you an extra boost of happiness and confidence in your abilities. 

You can also attend treatment for codependency and addiction at rehab, which provides 24/7 support, intensive treatment, group and 1:1 therapy, and wellness services. 
Explore our list of rehabs treating codependency with pricing information, reviews, photos, and more.

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What Is a “Dry Drunk”?

A “dry drunk” is someone who’s sober but still experiencing some of the emotions and behaviors caused by alcohol use. The term also describes someone who returns to an immature mindset1 after years or decades of impairment—arguably, back to how old they were when they began drinking. Other effects include irritability and impulsiveness. 

The term came about when Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) first began. AA members coined it2 as a non-negotiable stage of alcohol recovery. Later, psychiatrists and addiction specialists added their own twists to the definition, but generally agreed it’s part of recovery as a whole.

Who’s Most at Risk of Dry Drunk Syndrome?

Everyone in alcohol addiction recovery risks dry drunkenness, but it does become more likely for some specific groups.

Someone Who Never Went to Treatment

Not everyone needs professional alcohol addiction treatment, especially if their addiction isn’t severe. Or so it may feel.

Some forms of treatment, like outpatient therapy, address why/how drinking became a coping tool. Without treatment, you lose the chance to identify trauma, mental health conditions, and instill positive coping skills. Treatment can also help you process having an addiction. 

Without treatment, you risk developing dry drunk syndrome.

Someone Who Didn’t Complete Treatment

Anyone that prematurely left addiction treatment likely won’t enjoy the inner healing it can provide. You may not heal the underlying issues of addiction if you don’t finish treatment, resulting in dry drunk syndrome. 

Someone Who Had Poor Treatment

You may have gone to treatment but felt like you didn’t benefit from it. Maybe the facility wasn’t up to par, or you just couldn’t relate to their methods. Factors like that could keep you from fully engaging in treatment and experiencing healing. 

Other Nuances of Dry Drunk Syndrome 

Some symptoms of dry drunk syndrome mimic physical health issues2, like allergies and hypoglycemia. In early AA days, some members wrongly assumed more serious health conditions were simply a phase of their recovery. When those symptoms were medically addressed, they were no longer dry drunk.

So, it’s important to remember the signs and symptoms of dry drunk syndrome. That way, you can differentiate its symptoms from another health condition and get the treatment you need.

What Are The Signs of Dry Drunk Syndrome?

The signs of dry drunk syndrome2 include:

Changes in Mood 

You may feel more down, hopeless, or irritated than normal. You might also feel out of control since you can’t use your old coping tool anymore. Or, your mood could turn aggressive, and you may snap at your friends and family. 

Difficulty Concentrating

Feeling confused, disoriented, or distracted can make it hard to concentrate. Dry drunk syndrome can cause those feelings, affecting your work, school, and daily interpersonal life. 

Isolating

Feeling low, irritable, and ashamed of your feelings could lead to isolation. Or, you may want to deal with those feelings on your own, which could cause you to spend more and more time in isolation. That could mean staying in your room, overstaying at work, or becoming emotionally isolated around others. 

Engaging in Other Addictive Behaviors

You may turn to other substances1 in lieu of alcohol. These include “innocent” replacements, like caffeine, and even narcotics like cocaine. Other popular replacements include vapes and cigarettes, which contain nicotine. Excessively using nicotine or caffeine may seem better than using alcohol, but the underlying cause of addiction remains unaddressed.

Going Back to Old Bars

Despite not drinking anymore, you may feel drawn to the bars you used to go to and the social circles you were in. You may go to reconnect with old friends or another part of yourself. But doing so could tempt you into a relapse.

Habitual Lying

Hiding alcohol use and addiction usually requires lying, which can be a hard habit to break for those with dry drunk syndrome. You may find yourself lying about small or unimportant truths, creating trust issues with you and your loved ones. 

Anger And Resentment

In an attempt to avoid self-blame, rather than absolving it, you may blame others for personal errors. This could present as frequent anger outbursts, constant anger, and having a short fuse. You may also resent others for causing your addiction or contributing to it. Or, you might resent those who have gotten sober and seem perfectly happy.

Exaggerated Self-Importance

You may expect praise and positive attention for getting sober. This could lead to an exaggerated sense of self-importance, as you believe you’re owed praise. Receiving praise could then fuel that belief. Treatment can help you feel proud of your sobriety without the praise of others, which could prevent this symptom of dry drunk syndrome. 

How Is Dry Drunk Syndrome Treated?

To treat dry drunk syndrome, you and your care providers will likely return to your addiction’s root cause.  A therapist, psychologist, or addictions counselor will use various techniques to help you identify the factors that lead to addiction and find a path forward. These techniques include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you identify and address the thoughts and emotions behind your behaviors. For dry drunk syndrome, you’ll go back to what may have caused your addiction and how that unresolved cause still affects your present self. You and your therapist will then begin the healing process to resolve those issues and relieve you from dry drunk syndrome. 

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

DBT helps you accept strong emotions, navigate their effects, and learn tools for interpersonal communication. This therapy targets the emotions of dry drunk syndrome and the strong feelings that may have led to substance use in the first place. DBT usually takes place in a group setting with a classroom-like structure. You’ll learn new skills, accept your emotions, and explore ways to better yourself.

Holistic Therapies

Holistic therapies can help you navigate dry drunk syndrome by fostering your mind-body connection. Connecting deeper to yourself can open your eyes to the emotions that drove your addiction and how dry drunk syndrome continues to have those emotional effects. Holistic therapies for dry drunk syndrome include

The 12 Steps

Many of the original Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) members followed the 12 Steps to alleviate dry drunk syndrome. Those same principles still apply today. As the earlier members found relief through surrender and commitment to abstinence, so can you. Many rehabs and outpatient programs use the 12 Steps in treatment. And, you can keep going to AA meetings as long as you want, even after you leave treatment. You’re always welcome there.

Find A Support Group

12-Step groups exist worldwide. To find one near you, you can use AA’s meeting finder. You can also attend a rehab with a 12-Step focus.
To see 12-Step rehabs, you can browse our list of centers to see reviews, photos, insurance information, and more.

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The Connection Between Narcissism And Addiction

Narcissism can lead to addiction as a way to self-regulate and cope with shame or others’ apparent lack of admiration. Having a narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) doesn’t mean you’ll automatically become addicted to something. But it can make it more likely.

If substance use has started affecting your life, you and your care team might decide on a rehab for narcissism and addiction.

What Is Narcissism?

The DSM-51 defines narcissistic personality disorder as a “pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy.” If someone with NPD doesn’t feel admired, they might turn to substances to cope with that pain. Here’s how narcissistic traits2 might look in someone with narcissistic personality disorder. 

  • They exaggerate their work or educational accomplishments. They may say they got a raise or a new job title but never did, or say they got into a prestigious college when they didn’t.
  • They often monologue and seem annoyed or disinterested when you try to speak. 
  • They believe they are highly special and should only associate with other people and places like them.
  • They expect others to perform favors and respond to their beck and call. If you don’t, they’ll likely get upset.
  • They don’t empathize with you and can’t seem to ever see things from your perspective.
  • They’re inappropriately arrogant or haughty.
  • They might seem jealous of your happiness and success, or assume you’re jealous of them.
  • You feel like they exploit or take advantage of you.

The behaviors of your friend, coworker, loved one, or partner with narcissism may seem strangely out of place or inappropriate. They might lie for no reason other than to gain perceived admiration. They may also belittle, manipulate, or abuse others to maintain their sense of entitlement and control. 

Types of Narcissism

The 3 subtypes of narcissism are: 

  • Grandiose narcissism3, which presents as overconfidence, arrogance, entitlement, and dominance in interpersonal relationships.
  • Vulnerable narcissism3, which presents as hypersensitivity, a tendency to avoid all conflict, extreme defensiveness, and a hidden desire for admiration.
  • Pathological narcissism4, which presents when vulnerable and grandiose narcissism co-occur (or happen at the same time).

Someone with any type of narcissism will need the admiration of others. If they don’t feel admired, they might turn to substances to cope with that pain. They may also use substances to regulate the intense emotions of NPD. 

The Impact of Narcissism on Interpersonal Relationships

Narcissism can strain or break relationships. Someone with narcissism will likely struggle to emphasize with others and reciprocate in relationships, which can damage the relationship. Some relationships, romantic or otherwise, eventually end for these reasons. 

But it’s not always easy to recognize narcissism in your friend, romantic partner, or coworker. People with NPD often radiate charisma and confidence at first. This can make them an attractive friend, partner, or boss. But that thin veil often lifts quickly.

In some situations, someone with NPD may emotionally, physically, or sexually abuse others in their life. This heavily impacts their ability to both make and keep healthy relationships. 

The Link Between Narcissism And Addiction

Understanding Addiction

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines addiction5 as “a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by continued use despite negative consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain.” Someone with an addiction may use a substance, like drugs or alcohol, or have a behavior addiction like gambling, shopping, and sex. 

Addiction can happen to anyone, but some risk factors can make it more likely. These include trauma, chronic pain, genetic susceptibility (parents or other relatives with addiction), and brain injuries, among others.  

Co-Occurring Narcissism And Addiction

Co-occurring narcissism and addiction presents a unique, but manageable, challenge. If you have both, you might be more aggressive and violent2. And since NPD instills a strong sense of superiority, you might not feel like anything could be wrong. The idea might even feel enraging. But addiction isn’t something you’re doing “wrong.” It’s just something you need help managing.

Both narcissism and addiction have compulsivity2 in common. Someone with narcissism will also repeat their actions despite negative consequences, like losing friends. Addiction, as defined, has that same aspect.

Why Do They Co-occur?

Research suggests general functional impairment, not narcissism itself, can cause addiction4. But the effects of narcissism can cause a higher likelihood to drink, or use drugs, or gamble. And the more likely you are to use substances, the more likely addiction becomes.

For example, you may drink or use drugs to lift your self-esteem, which you need to keep high due to your NPD. Doing so often enough can lead to addiction. Alcohol and drugs can also enhance your perception of boring people—people who don’t offer adequate admiration or who aren’t on your level of specialness. Altered mental states can mask shame too, whether it’s shame from not being admired or guilt for needing admiration.

Social media addiction, gambling, excessive spending, and excessive working have similar effects as substance use. That’s because they provide admiration4 (through posting on social media or getting a big win), lift unstable self-esteem, and can cover the shame of not feeling admired. 

The Impact of Addiction on Interpersonal Relationships

Addiction can cause someone to lie, steal, and become untrustworthy. It can strain relationships even without these issues present—watching a loved one suffer never feels okay. And trying to force someone to get help may feel like a losing battle. It’s frustrating for both sides. 

The effects of addiction could also cause you to lose your job, home, and finances. The prices of drugs and alcohol might mean your finances take a hit first, which could also cause strain in your home life, especially if you’re your family’s primary earner. As your addiction worsens, your job performance may as well, resulting in job loss. 

Addiction and narcissism don’t have all the same symptoms and causes, but they do connect in some ways.

Psychological Mechanisms of Addiction And Narcissism

Addiction can fill a narcissistic need for high self-esteem and self-worth. Drinking, using drugs, and shopping, for example, all release dopamine, which makes you feel good and reinforces repetition6. A narcissist’s need to feel good about themselves may drive their addictive behaviors. Or, they may use substances to even-out their emotional states. 

Some drugs, and alcohol especially, depress your central nervous system. This may feel nice if you feel out of control or like your emotions (good and bad) are too intense. 

In either case, you may use substances to cope with the negative effects of narcissism. Even for someone without narcissism, addiction presents a tempting “solution” to low self-esteem and self-confidence. So if you have a highly unstable sense of self-esteem, substance use can feel like an easy way to manage your confidence level. 

Social Factors 

Certain social factors contribute to addiction and narcissism. Growing up with inadequate or excessive praise can lead to narcissism2 in adults. Traits like aggression, poor tolerance of distress, and emotional dysregulation can also lead to narcissism. Childhood trauma or inherited genetics can cause these traits.

Growing up with addicted parents can make you more likely to have an addiction7, through both genetics and mimicry. Similarly, having a narcissistic parent can make you more likely to have NPD8. That’s because a narcissistic parent may overvalue their child, who then assumes they’re more important than everyone else, and that everyone thinks that too.

But despite the interpersonal and personal symptoms of each condition, you do have resources for recovery.

Treatment And Management

Treatment for narcissism and addiction must address both conditions at the same time. While narcissism has no standard treatment pathway8, certain modalities, like ongoing therapy and a positive therapist-patient relationship, play a positive role. 

Psychoanalytic therapy for narcissism8 focuses on the emotions you express towards your therapist—AKA, someone who’s trying to change or better you. Being in treatment may make you feel inferior and want to lash out. So, this therapy focuses on bringing those emotions to the surface and examining them empathetically.

Schema therapy addresses the unhelpful emotions of narcissism9. It’s an adaptation of cognitive behavioral therapy, which addresses the thoughts that lead to harmful behaviors like addiction. Schema therapy can help you regulate your self-esteem and self-worth without needing others to make you feel whole. 

In treatment for addiction and narcissism, providers address addiction, narcissism, and the underlying causes of each. You might start with detox, which safely removes substances from your body. Next, therapy helps you identify and address the causing factors of addiction and begin treating narcissism. After rehab, you’ll likely stay in outpatient therapy, which providers highly recommend to manage both narcissism and addiction. 
But first, you need to take the first step towards recovery. Do so by browsing our list of rehabs that treat addiction and narcissism to see pricing, photos, reviews and more.

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Overcoming Addiction with Biblical Faith: Embracing God’s Guidance and Support

Disclaimer: Healing from addiction can be an incredibly spiritual experience. There are a variety of resources available to help individuals on their journey to recovery, each of which may be used in a unique and personalized way. Everyone’s path to sobriety and healing is different, and the following provides just one perspective.

God has the power to rescue you from addiction. As Corinthians 10:13 reads ““No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

You might see Him working through talented counselors, therapists, and doctors, or a divine intervention (miracle!). In any case, you don’t have to walk the journey alone. You can use this knowledge to bolster your faith and your recovery efforts. But you need to know where to start.

You and your care team may decide on going to rehab. You can go to a Christian rehab to receive faith and science-backed recovery opportunities. 

Understanding Addiction

Addiction is a complex disease that could affect anyone, regardless of their background, religion, economic status, or gender. Addiction can even change the way your brain works1. That’s why stopping can feel like such a monumental feat—even with God at your side.

Stopping substance use can also make you sick, which may only reinforce your need for more drugs, alcohol, or medications. Depending on your unique situation, you may need to detox in a medical facility (or a residential rehab with detox) for your safety. Here, doctors monitor your symptoms and can prescribe comfort medications for withdrawal symptoms. 

Process addictions impact your brain2 in the same way, too. Though you won’t get physical withdrawal if you stop watching porn or spending too much money, it can cause a lot of emotional distress and grief. As with substance addictions, behavioral addictions can also separate you from your family, loved ones, and God.

Addiction affects your mind, body, and spirit. That’s why treatment must, in turn, reach your mind, body, and spirit. For some, the spiritual component can feel crucial. 

The Role of Faith And Spirituality in Recovery

If you’re a believer, incorporating your faith into recovery could be the key for your success. Connecting to God and learning more about who you are in Him can give you the encouragement, hope, and strength to recover.

Finding Unwavering Faith

With God’s help, you can grow your faith as you rely on Him for delivery. As with all trials of this world, including addiction, God promises to see us through. Sometimes, you won’t be able to go back to the life you lived before addiction. But that’s okay. A new start might be exactly what God intends. 

Holding fast to truths like this can offer encouragement. God doesn’t promise an easy life. He also doesn’t promise to answer prayers. But He does promise to work all things for your good. Look at these verses:

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

These promises can strengthen your faith—whether you’ve just started your recovery journey or have years of sobriety under your belt.

Leaning on God’s Strength

Limitless strength through God can help you throughout your recovery journey. It’s not always easy to feel strong, though. Especially if you’ve relapsed—again or for the first time—or unintentionally hurt someone you love because of your addiction. In these difficult moments, you can look back at God’s word (and your own life) to see examples of His strength and mercy. 

And remember, your strength doesn’t have to come from you. So, part of your recovery journey could include admitting you need help. Then, you can ask God for strength and take comfort in sharing your yolk with someone who can endlessly bear it. 

Many verses from the Bible3 talk about strength—it’s something we’ve needed for decades. Here’s one from Philippians:

“I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4: 12-13

And from Isaiah,

“He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.” Isaiah 40:29

Alone, these verses and truths may not help you much. True change and joy often takes prayer, meditation on these truths, and voicing your struggles to others.

Seeking Divine Intervention And Guidance

Your first step in seeking God may already sit on your shelf: your Bible. But having one doesn’t mean you’ll automatically know how to find the passages you need—it’s a big book! So, you can connect with a member of your church, your pastor, an elder, or a Biblical counselor to help you use your Bible well.
You can also use Bible studies on addiction and recovery. YouVersion has dozens of free Bible studies on a variety of addictions, including pornography.

addiction bible reading plans

Many Christian authors have also covered the topic of addiction and recovery. Redemption House lists books about addiction, shame, recovery, and how you can rediscover hope. 

You can listen to resources on addiction, too. Plenty of podcasts discuss addiction in Christians, how they’ve healed, and their own personal stories with recovery. You can see a non-exhaustive list here. 

Finding Support in Religious Communities

Your church might have resources and advice for addiction recovery. You can also ask your pastor, elders, or someone else on your church’s team for advice and direction. Even if they don’t know how to help you right away, you at least won’t be alone as you look. 

You can also use the internet to find faith-based support groups. Celebrate Recovery has peer support meetings available around the world. Some 12-Step meetings identify God as the Higher Power mentioned in the Steps—or, you can make God your Higher Power. You decide which direction to go. Here’s a few other steps you can take:

  • Reach out to religious leaders in your local area. They can provide advice and support or connect you with people in the community who can.
  • Attend religious services or events at local places of worship. This can be a great way to meet people and make connections.
  • Join an online forum or chatroom related to your religion. Here, you can find support from people who have similar beliefs.
  • Use services offered by your local church or other religious organizations. These may include counseling, support groups, or other resources that can provide support.
  • Research organizations or charities that focus on providing spiritual support. These may offer programs, events, or other services that can provide support.

Developing a Spiritual Practice

You can create your own spiritual practice of recovery through Bible studies, prayers, and meditation. Try crafting one or more prayers for your recovery journey, either alone or with someone who can offer guidance. 

For example, you might come up with a prayer to combat the flashbacks that once prompted you to drink. Rather than forcing down the thought or feeling, you redirect it into a prayer to God. And if you’ve told people about your struggles, you can text or call them and have them start praying for you, too. Here’s some other examples:

  • Start your day with prayer: Take a few moments each morning to thank God for the gift of a new day and ask for His guidance throughout the day.
  • Read the Bible: Spend some time each day reading the Bible. You can work through a Bible study, go chronologically, or pick a book in the Bible to dissect and apply to your life.  
  • Memorize scripture: Commit one or 2 Bible verses to memory each day, or choose a life verse for your recovery journey and memorize it. 
  • Journal: Take some time to write down your thoughts and reflections on your spiritual journey.
  • Attend church: Make it a priority to attend church services regularly and participate in church activities, like small groups and Bible studies.
  • Practice acts of service: Take time to practice acts of service to others, such as volunteering in your community or helping a friend in need.
  • Reflect on how you can live out your faith: Spend some time each day reflecting on how you can live out your faith in your daily life.
  • Spend time in nature: Take time to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation.
  • Give thanks: Take some time each day to thank God for all his blessings.

Connect With Others

You can also start going to small groups at your church. These connect you to others at your church and may provide a space that feels safe to share. And, going to these groups keeps you continually connected to God’s Word, your church, and your hope in Christ.

Serving can keep you busy and productive, all while helping others. Your church likely has plenty of volunteer opportunities available, either within your church (like nursery, coffee, and decorating) or with outside organizations, like college ministries.  

But sometimes, you need more than the help of your church and the people in it. And while prayer, Bible study, and meditation can strengthen and sustain your recovery, you may need professional help to heal efficiently.

Integrating Professional Help And Treatment

Faith-based and evidence-based treatments can, and do, mix. You don’t have to sacrifice either one to see results. 

Many, if not all, therapists and counselors accept and welcome people of all religions and backgrounds. They’ll respect your preferences and beliefs, even if it means you don’t always agree with their counsel. Working with a licensed therapist connects you to evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed therapies. 

These therapies can change the thoughts leading to addiction, strengthen your morale, and give you added hope in a dark time. 

Medical Treatment for Addiction

Withdrawing from substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines present significant detox dangers. That’s why it’s usually best to detox in a medical facility or a residential rehab with detox. The doctors and other professionals there may prescribe medications to help with your withdrawal symptoms and keep you safe.

A multidisciplinary treatment team can help you find, and keep, your recovery. Your faith will only bolster it. 

Discover Your Hope Everlasting

Your addiction likely won’t go away after a prayer or 2—if it did, recovery wouldn’t be a life-long journey. But keeping your eyes on God, meditating on His promises, connecting with others in your faith, and seeking professional help can all make your recovery journey fruitful. 
You can browse our collection of faith-based Christian rehabs to see photos, pricing, reviews, and more.

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What Is Gas Station Heroin (Tianeptine)?

Gas station heroin, or tianeptine, acts like an opioid. It closely mimics heroin and often sells in gas stations and online stores, earning it the name “gas station heroin.” And like opioids, tianeptine can be highly addictive. 

Some states have made tianeptine illegal. Other states heed the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) regulation1, which states “…it is an unsafe food additive, and dietary supplements containing tianeptine are adulterated under the FD&C Act.” As such, tianeptine sellers can’t say it’s meant for consumption—or really anything else but “laboratory research.” 

But that doesn’t make gas station heroin any less addictive or any harder to get. To help you or your loved one recover, your care team might suggest going to rehab for drug addiction. 

Understanding Gas Station Heroin

Gas station heroin goes by several street names: ZaZa, Tianna, Pegasus, and TD Red. Tianeptine was created and patented as an antidepressant2 and still has that function in some European, Asian, and Latin American countries. But in the U.S., some use tianeptine as a pseudo-opioid. Because it’s not a controlled substance across the whole U.S. (yet), the legality of tianeptine proves tempting. 

Tianeptine acts like an opioid2 because it’s also a mu-opioid receptor agonist, which means it causes an influx of dopamine along your brain’s pleasure circuit. That’s why it’s effects can be compared to heroin. Tianeptine also causes opioid-like withdrawal symptoms—some say it’s even worse3.   

Despite being marketed as a demure dietary supplement, a nootropic, or a novel way to treat depression, tianeptine is far from safe. Smaller doses may prove harmless or even beneficial for non-U.S. patients taking it as prescribed. But, like heroin, tianeptine use could easily spiral into a costly addiction. 

What Are the Dangers of Gas Station Heroin?

Unknown Risks and Consequences

One of the dangers of tianeptine comes from the public’s general lack of how it’s used4 and the resulting effects. For example, gas station heroin coagulates when it gets wet3. If you try to inject it, as you would heroin, the coagulation could cause vein damage. Snorting it creates the same problems, since your nose and nasal cavity are wet, too. 

But many don’t know that. They might also assume that snorting or injecting tianeptine causes a “better” high3 than ingesting it, like heroin. In reality, that’s not true. Snorting tianeptine also hurts quite bad.  

Many also don’t know tianeptine can be addictive and have painful withdrawal symptoms. That’s understandable, since many sellers present tianeptine as a nootropic (cognitive enhancer) or as an innocent dietary supplement. Though more and more have realized the true nature of tianeptine, including the states fighting to illegalize it, it’s been too little too late for some.  

Overdose, Tolerance, and Withdrawals

Taking a seemingly safe drug with unknown effects could lead to overdoses, which have been fatal. You might not know how much is safe, how often you can take it, and what doesn’t pair well with tianeptine. These factors all increase your chance of an overdose. 

Even within “safe” doses, your tolerance will build. As time goes on, you may need to take higher and higher doses to feel the same positive effects. The more you take, the more likely an overdose becomes. And the higher and riskier your dose goes, the worse your withdrawals could feel4.    

Withdrawing from tianeptine feels like withdrawing from opioids, or worse. Tianeptine has a short half-life4, meaning withdrawal symptoms can set in fast. Symptoms can also last up to 2 weeks3. These symptoms include mental and physical effects4, like

  • Agitation
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Drowsiness
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • High blood pressure
  • Stomach pain and digestive issues
  • Vomiting 
  • Suicidal thoughts

In a recent localized study, over half the calls to poison control centers for tianeptine withdrawals resulted in medical care5. Tianeptine does, thankfully, respond to naloxone, which reverses the effects of an overdose. If you or someone you know needs help because of an overdose, call 911 or talk to poison control. 

Easy Access

As the nickname “gas station heroin” suggests, you can find tianeptine in some gas stations, smoke shops, and online websites. It’s highly accessible and can be all-too-easy to get a hold of (in bulk or by the bottle). But its accessibility doesn’t mean it’s safe. Here’s just a few of the reasons why:

  • 1. Unregulated Quality: The FDA doesn’t regulate gas station drugs, meaning there’s no guarantee of the quality or purity of the product. This could lead to serious health risks since the product could contain dangerous contaminants or chemicals.
  • 2. Unknown Ingredients: Many gas station drugs contain ingredients that aren’t labeled or disclosed to the consumer. This could lead to serious health risks if you’re unaware of the active ingredients in the product.
  • 3. Dosing Instructions: Gas station drugs often rarely include dosing instructions, which can lead to overdosing or underdosing, both of which can be dangerous.
  • 4. Contamination: Gas station drugs may have contaminants like bacteria, fungi, and others, which can lead to serious health risks.
  • 5. Addiction Risk: Gas station drugs can be highly addictive, leading to a dependence on the substance. This can lead to serious health risks, like withdrawal symptoms.

Despite these challenges, you do have recovery resources to find the healing you need.

Getting Help for Drug Addiction

Tianeptine could reel you in with its legality, easy access, and promises of newfound wellbeing. But you can get out of its grip. 

Many treatments for drug addiction use a combination of therapy and medications. Your doctor may prescribe benzodiazepines to ease your detox6 symptoms. Fluids and vitamins7 can help, too. 

After detoxing, you’ll begin to navigate the trauma, circumstance, or untrue thought(s) that may have led to using tianeptine. Therapies like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) can change your perspective and offer new coping tools for your future. Your therapist will likely introduce you to these therapies in group and individual settings. 

During or after rehab, you can also start Narcotics Anonymous (NA). As a 12-Step peer group, NA connects you to others in recovery and helps keep you accountable. Meetings take place worldwide.
View our list of drug addiction rehabs to see photos, reviews, insurance information, and more.