Category: Conditions

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How Do I Know If I Have an Alcohol Problem

Because drinking is socially acceptable, it can be very hard to tell whether you have a problem with alcohol. In certain situations, you may even be pressured to drink more in order to keep up with a group. And alcohol is far more accessible than most other dangerous substances. But just because it’s legal, that doesn’t mean it’s safe or healthy for everyone.

If you’re concerned about your drinking habits, you can start by taking stock of your behavior. Rather than relying on feedback from the people around you—who may drink excessively themselves—it’s important to learn the facts about this condition. With that information in hand, you’ll be ready to find treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Defining Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

According to the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–V), alcohol use disorder can be diagnosed based on 11 signs and symptoms. Based on those criteria, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) published the following list of questions assessing the likelihood that a person has alcohol use disorder. ((Alcohol use disorder: A comparison between dsm–iv and dsm–5 | national institute on alcohol abuse and alcoholism(Niaaa). (n.d.). Retrieved May 24, 2022, from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-use-disorder-comparison-between-dsm))

In the past year, have you…

  • Had times when you ended up drinking more, or longer, than you intended?
  • More than once wanted to cut down or stop drinking, or tried to, but couldn’t?
  • Spent a lot of time drinking? Or being sick or getting over other aftereffects?
  • Wanted a drink so badly you couldn’t think of anything else?
  • Found that drinking—or being sick from drinking—often interfered with taking care of your home or family? Or caused job troubles? Or school problems?
  • Continued to drink even though it was causing trouble with your family or friends?
  • Given up or cut back on activities that were important or interesting to you, or gave you pleasure, in order to drink?
  • More than once gotten into situations while or after drinking that increased your chances of getting hurt (such as driving, swimming, using machinery, walking in a dangerous area, or having unsafe sex)?
  • Continued to drink even though it was making you feel depressed or anxious or adding to another health problem? Or after having had a memory blackout?
  • Had to drink much more than you once did to get the effect you want? Or found that your usual number of drinks had much less effect than before?
  • Found that when the effects of alcohol were wearing off, you had withdrawal symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, or a seizure? Or sensed things that were not there?

People with alcohol use disorder can say yes to 2 or more of these questions. Mild AUD includes 2-3 of these signs, while moderate AUD includes 4-5 of them. Severe alcohol use disorder is defined as the presence of 6 or more symptoms.

Even if you don’t officially qualify for this diagnosis, you might still exhibit signs of unhealthy behavior. It’s important to keep an eye on your drinking habits, and notice the warning signs associated with a developing addiction.

What Is Excessive Drinking?

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), drinking in moderation means that on a day when alcohol is consumed, intake is limited to 2 drinks or less for men, and 1 drink or less for women. Drinking above this amount may be excessive, and can be categorized as binge drinking or heavy alcohol use. Both of these patterns of behaviors increase the likelihood that a person either has or will develop an alcohol addiction.

Binge Drinking

Binge drinking is a pattern of excessive drinking ((Drinking levels defined | national institute on alcohol abuse and alcoholism(Niaaa). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/moderate-binge-drinking)) that raises blood alcohol concentration to 0.08% or higher. According to the NIAAA, an adult male can typically reach these levels after consuming 5 drinks in 2 hours. The threshold for most adult female drinkers is just 4 drinks in 2 hours.

Heavy Alcohol Use

For men, the NIAAA defines heavy alcohol use ((Drinking levels defined | national institute on alcohol abuse and alcoholism(Niaaa). (n.d.). Retrieved May 24, 2022, from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/moderate-binge-drinking)) as “consuming more than 4 drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks per week.” For women, that number shrinks to “3 drinks on any day or more than 7 drinks per week.”

Drinking and Gender

It’s important to note that the NIAAA uses narrow definitions of sex and gender. In one article, their experts note that cis women may be more sensitive to alcohol’s effects ((Are women more vulnerable to alcohol’s effects? -Alcohol alert no. 46-1999. (n.d.). Retrieved May 24, 2022, from https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa46.htm#:~:text=Women%20absorb%20and%20metabolize%20alcohol,alcohol%20(5%2C6).)) than cis men. Specifically, they explain this is because “[cis] women absorb and metabolize alcohol differently than [cis] men.”

This data focuses on differences due to biological (or assigned) sex. In recent years, researchers have also begun to explore alcohol misuse in transgender and gender non-conforming populations. ((Gilbert, P. A., Pass, L. E., Keuroghlian, A. S., Greenfield, T. K., & Reisner, S. L. (2018). Alcohol research with transgender populations: A systematic review and recommendations to strengthen future studies. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 186, 138–146. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.01.016)) However, more research is needed on this subject. If you have questions about how your experience of sex and gender relates to drinking, speak with a doctor who understands your personal health history.

Assessing Your Situation

Many people seek treatment for alcohol addiction because of pressure from friends and family. ((Polcin, D. L., Korcha, R., Greenfield, T. K., Bond, J., & Kerr, W. (2012). Pressure to reduce drinking and reasons for seeking treatment. Contemporary Drug Problems, 39(4), 687–714. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3888964/)) While this can be a powerful motivator, it’s important to remember that advice from loved ones is no substitute for medical guidance. If you think you might have alcohol use disorder, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any other action.

Talking to Your Doctor

If you have an ongoing relationship with a primary care provider (PCP), you can start by making an appointment with them. Your PCP may be a doctor, registered nurse, or other healthcare professional familiar with your health history. This person will be able to answer your questions, offer insight into your risk factors for addiction, and recommend a course of action that accounts for your ongoing physical health.

However, not every doctor is qualified to diagnose addiction. Depending on your provider’s expertise, you may need to ask for a referral to a specialist.

Talking to a Mental Health Professional

In addition to your PCP, you should speak with a mental health provider, like a psychiatrist or a talk therapist. If you regularly see a counselor, you can begin by getting their advice on the matter. To get properly diagnosed, it’s important to connect someone who has experience treating alcohol addiction. You may need to go through a longer referral process in order to find the right provider.

When you do speak with an addiction specialist, you can ask them to conduct a formal assessment to determine your level of dependence on alcohol. Clinicians may use a variety of assessment tools, including interview questions based on the DSM-V criteria for AUD. It’s important to get this expert’s opinion on your status, even if you’ve already answered these questions for yourself. They’ll be able to interpret your responses in a clinical context, and give you more information about your options for recovery.

Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

Once you’ve been diagnosed, you can begin planning for treatment and recovery from alcohol use disorder. For alcohol in particular—even more than many other substances—it’s absolutely vital that you begin this process with expert care.

Detox

Detoxing from alcohol is extremely dangerous without proper medical supervision.

During alcohol withdrawal, ((Saitz, R. (1998). Introduction to alcohol withdrawal. Alcohol Health and Research World, 22(1), 5–12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6761824/)) you may experience mild symptoms like tremors, anxiety, and irritability, or serious symptoms such as seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens. In severe cases, this process can even be life-threatening.

Before you stop drinking, talk to your doctor about your current alcohol intake, and learn about the risks you can expect during withdrawal. If you’re a candidate for medical alcohol detox, you can attend a residential program during this phase of recovery. Many detox centers require you to have plans for longer-term care before beginning the program.

Residential Rehab

After detox, many people in alcohol recovery benefit from residential rehab. These programs typically last 30-90 days, although exactly how long you need to stay in rehab may vary. During this time, you might participate in psychotherapy and group therapy, and get medical attention. You can also attend support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery groups. These groups are readily available in many rehab centers, and once you complete inpatient treatment, you can easily find a similar session in your area or online.

Long-Term Recovery From Alcohol Misuse

Recovery from alcohol addiction doesn’t end with inpatient rehab. Most people continue some form of long term treatment, which may include 1:1 talk therapy, attending support groups, or other modalities. If you decide to stop drinking completely and permanently, you may also need to restructure your social life around that choice.

This process might sound daunting, but it can also be rewarding and validating. By learning how to have fun and connect with loved ones in a new way, you can build a healthier life. These experiences can be far more meaningful—and better yet, sustainable.

If you’re concerned about your alcohol use, you can learn more about rehab facilities that treat alcohol addiction.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

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Rehab for Depression: What Are My Treatment Options?

Most people think of rehab as a place you go to get treatment for substance use disorders. But did you know that many rehabs also treat mental health and mood disorders, like depression?

Many people seek help with mental health challenges at treatment centers every year, and may choose an inpatient, outpatient, or online format depending on their circumstances. While there’s no one formula for treating depression, choosing a rehab program that best suits your unique needs, values, and goals can help you ease distress and shift from surviving to thriving.

Depression is a serious mental health disorder that often requires professional help. If left untreated, it can worsen to a potentially unmanageable stage—and in some cases, it can be life-threatening. The Department of Health and Human Services discusses how depression increases the risk of suicide,1 with the risk being proportionate to the severity of depression.

If you’re having thoughts about suicide or self-harm, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255). Trained counselors are available for a confidential chat 24 hours a day.

In this article, we’ll explore signs of depression and examine your options for treatment:

  • When to consider getting professional help
  • Types of rehab for depression
  • Common approaches to treating depression

When Is It Time to Seek Professional Help?

Depression affects over 40 million adults in the U.S.6 But sadly, it often goes undiagnosed and undertreated. Early detection and treatment of depression7 offers several benefits, including longer remission times and improved social skills.

It’s a good idea to consider getting professional help if you notice telltale signs of depression that persist for at least 2 weeks, as outlined by the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH):2

  • Hopelessness or pessimism
  • Irritability
  • Continuous feelings of sorrow, worry, emptiness, or guilt
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Lost of interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
    decreased energy
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering events, or making decisions
    difficulty sleeping or oversleeping

If you feel like depression is negatively impacting your day-to-day life, you have several options for treatment. This includes inpatient (residential) rehab, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), and teletherapy. Each treatment type presents unique benefits, which we’ll explore further below.

A qualified mental health professional can also help you determine which type of treatment is most beneficial for you.

Depression and Co-Occurring Disorders

Depression and other mental health conditions frequently occur alongside substance use disorders. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), substance abuse is twice as prevalent among those who suffer from mental illness.3 This situation is referred to as having “co-occurring disorders” or a “dual diagnosis.”

Mental health conditions may cause people to turn to drugs or alcohol to relieve their symptoms temporarily—and it also works the other way around. Because alcohol and drugs alter brain chemistry, people may experience new or worsened mental health symptoms as a result of substance use. In these cases, successful recovery requires simultaneously treating each condition. Thankfully, many rehab centers specialize in co-occurring disorder treatment, giving patients the opportunity to sustainably address both issues.

Types of Rehab Programs for Depression

Inpatient Rehab (Residential Rehab)

Inpatient, or residential, rehab provides 24-hour clinical care in a secure environment, making it preferable for those who require a higher level of care, perhaps due to the severity of their depression.

This treatment format offers the opportunity to fully devote yourself to getting better for a period of time. If you haven’t had success with less intensive depression treatment programs, you might benefit from the highly structured schedule and immersive environment that inpatient rehabs offer.

Following are some indicators that residential rehab for depression may be the best treatment option for you:

Your depression is resistant to treatment. Treatment-resistant depression4 is defined as depression with symptoms that persist after standard treatment with 2 or more medications. Residential settings offer around-the-clock access to a team of mental health professionals working to learn what strategies work best in relieving your depression. Many residential programs also offer the opportunity to try holistic or complementary therapies that might be just what you need to learn effective coping skills and find relief.

You need a change of environment or perspective. Inpatient rehabs allow clients to break away from possible environmental triggers and focus solely on getting well. Specialized programming can also provide opportunities to try new therapies and activities. This, in turn, can lead to a shift in perspective5 that fosters positive thinking.

You’ve had serious thoughts of, or attempts at, suicide. If you’re thinking about or have attempted suicide, it’s vital to get intensive mental health treatment immediately. Because suicidality requires a higher level of care and enhanced safety protocol, only certain rehabs admit these patients.

For more information on suicidal ideation, see our article: What to do When Someone You Love is Suicidal.

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient depression rehab options include intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs). With both of these approaches, clients return home each day after treatment. These programs allow you to work around your job, school, or childcare routines while devoting a set amount of time each week to progressing towards your treatment goals.

In a partial hospitalization program, you’ll spend a significant amount of time in treatment—usually ranging from 4 to 8 hours per day, 3 to 5 days per week. This option may be used as a bridge between residential and outpatient care, and is sometimes recommended as a way to reduce the recurrence of severe symptoms. Clients in PHPs can retain important aspects of their daily routines while receiving full-time care.

Intensive outpatient programs typically involve less clinical hours than PHPs, but are more intensive than simply attending therapy sessions on your own. In an IOP, clients attend treatment on a part-time basis for about 9 to 15 hours per week, with many centers offering evening and weekend schedules that cater to working adults. IOP sessions are often based on group therapy.8

Below are some benefits of non-residential programs:

Outpatient rehab is often more cost-effective than residential. The higher cost of inpatient rehab can be a barrier for some. Since outpatient programs are often less expensive, they can provide a more accessible (but still intensive) option for those who are concerned about cost or have limited insurance coverage.

You can keep up with daily responsibilities while receiving full- or part-time depression treatment. Many people have family, work, or school obligations they simply can’t leave behind for an extended period. With PHP and IOP options, clients can receive intensive depression therapy that works with their schedule and allows them to live at home.
Sometimes, however, severe depression symptoms prevent people from being able to keep up with their daily responsibilities. For others, factors in their home life may contribute to depressive episodes. In cases like these, it may be useful to step away from your usual patterns for a period of time to focus on getting well.

Outpatient rehab could be a good option if you have a positive home environment. Studies have shown that having a strong support system positively affects your mental health.9 If your biological or chosen family, partners, friends, or others in your community can reliably support your recovery journey, it may be helpful to choose a treatment format that will allow you to stay in contact with them.

Teletherapy

Teletherapy uses remote technology as the means of communication between the therapist and the client. This can include both 1-on-1 and group therapy sessions, attended by video conferencing, phone calls, or chat.

Research shows that teletherapy is effective for many mental health concerns.10 Since COVID-19, even more rehabs now offer remote treatment options.

Could teletherapy be an effective depression treatment option for you? Let’s take a look at some of its benefits.

Teletherapy is more affordable than residential rehab. In addition to lower program costs, you may be able to save in other areas like transportation and childcare. Having more convenient, regular check-ins with your therapist may also help you manage your symptoms better and thus save money by minimizing the need for more intensive care. One study of veterans who received treatment remotely showed that regular teletherapy helped reduce their healthcare expenses11 over the course of a year.

Teletherapy can help you stay on track during COVID-19 restrictions. Life during the pandemic has proven to be an ever-changing roller coaster of spikes, mandates, and restrictions. With teletherapy, these changes don’t have to mean a disruption to your treatment progress. You can continue to attend sessions safely from the comfort of home (or any location convenient to you). This can also help protect vulnerable individuals from exposure to illness.

Teletherapy can be a viable option if your depression is not too severe. If you’re able to function well enough to carry out your day-to-day tasks, and you feel safe and supported in your home environment, remote treatment may make sense as a way to increase convenience and reduce the costs associated with in-person care.

Common Approaches to Treating Depression

In general, medication and talk therapy are the most common first-line approaches to treating depression. And while there’s much debate about which of these is most effective, according to the American Psychological Association, “there is some evidence that combining psychotherapy and medications12 may be more effective than either treatment alone.”

Each person’s experience of healing from depression is different, and you may find that one, both, or neither of these treatments works best for you. That’s why it’s important to learn about the range of treatment methods that are available, so you can start to seek professional advice and check in with yourself about what makes the most sense for your life.

Medication

Your doctor or psychiatrist may prescribe one (or eventually, several) of a variety of antidepressant medications. These typically fall into one the following categories:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These are the most commonly prescribed form of antidepressant, and include Fluoxetine (Prozac), Paroxetine (Paxil), Citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro), and Sertraline (Zoloft). SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): These affect serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. SNRI medications include Venlafaxine (Effexor), Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq), and Duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Atypical antidepressants, such as Mirtazapine (Remeron) and Wellbutrin (Bupropion), are sometimes prescribed when SSRIs or SNRIs haven’t been effective.

While many of these have similar effects, they each have a unique profile, and side effects may vary from brand to brand. If you want to find out whether medication is right for you, your first step is to consult with a treatment professional. A qualified clinician can work with you to prescribe, monitor and manage your medication regimen and find out what most effectively relieves your symptoms.

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy, or psychotherapy, involves talking with a mental health expert about your depression and how it affects your life. This form of treatment can be very effective in helping you reduce depression symptoms and cope with them when they occur.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is among the most common forms of talk therapy used in clinical settings. “Cognitive” refers to thoughts, while “behavioral” focuses on the actions arising from those thoughts. CBT is founded on the premise that inaccurate or unhelpful thought patterns cause undesirable behaviors. It seeks to transform thinking to help people see an overall improvement in how they feel.

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is based on CBT, but also incorporates mindfulness techniques to help people increase their tolerance of uncomfortable emotions and gain self-acceptance. Therapy sessions focus on identifying states of mind and teaching coping skills based on meditation practice.

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on enhancing function within interpersonal relationships to alleviate depressive symptoms. A key idea is that psychiatric symptoms might be thought of as a response to challenges in daily connections with others.

An abundance of other talk therapies are also used in depression treatment. When you enroll in a rehab program, you’ll start with an initial assessment and set goals with your therapist for the course of your treatment. Depending on the program you attend, different therapies may be available.

Holistic and Complementary Therapies

Complementary and holistic therapies are non-traditional treatment approaches that many rehabs employ alongside standard methods like psychotherapy. These can help clients discover aspects of themselves by providing opportunities to try new ways of thinking and being. As such, they can provide important personal insight in ways talk therapy alone may not be able to.
Examples of complementary treatment methods include:

  • Mindfulness
  • Behavioral activation
  • Art therapy
  • Music therapy
  • Yoga
  • Experiential and recreational therapies

Alternative Therapies for Treatment-Resistant Depression

Several rehabs are able to provide alternative treatment options that may be helpful when conventional methods are not effective. Some people find that they’re more responsive to alternative therapies for treatment-resistant depression13 where more conventional methods have failed. These might include the following:

Lifestyle Changes

Small changes to your daily habits can have a big impact on how you feel. Along with professional treatment, research also shows that simple lifestyle changes can provide relief from depression symptoms.14 These can help you sustain remission after rehab, and may include the following:

  • Regular movement and exercise
  • Sleep hygiene
  • Mood-supporting nutrition
  • Spending time outdoors
  • Cultivating social skills and relationships

An added benefit of residential treatment is that patients spend enough time in a recovery-focused setting to set a new cadence for their daily routines. Aftercare support specialists can also help to make sure you’re maintaining these changes when you return home.

In Times of Darkness, Professional Depression Treatment Offers Hope

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating depression. If you’re struggling with this disorder, the good news is that you have plenty of avenues to choose from. Your primary care physician, therapist, or personal support network can be a good starting point for identifying options and deciding which will serve you best.

If you’ve decided to get help for your depression, you’ve already made an important first step. To learn more about depression rehabs and see program information, reviews, facilities, and more, search our comprehensive list of depression treatment programs.

 

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Rehab for Survivors of Sexual Trauma

Sexual trauma is never the survivor’s fault. It doesn’t matter what you wore, who you dated, or whether you fought back. Many people struggle to believe that, which can make it hard to ask for support. But remember: You deserve care. You have the right to heal. And for some clients, rehab for sexual trauma is a helpful place to start.

Assault may take place as an isolated instance, or it may be a prolonged series of events. And survivors of domestic violence situations may face even more barriers to healing. But under any circumstances, these experiences can have a long-term impact on your mental health.

Healing isn’t a linear process, especially for this type of trauma. Some survivors may continue to experience triggers for years to come, or even permanently. But over time, you can develop the tools you need to live with what you’ve been through, and even thrive as a result of your post-traumatic growth. Yes: after sexual assault, it is absolutely possible to heal and grow.

The Emotional Impact of Sexual Assault

According to the CDC, 43.6% of women and 24.8% of men report having experienced some form of contact sexual violence1 in their lifetimes. In other words, nearly half of women and nearly a quarter of men have been groped, raped, or otherwise touched in a nonconsensual way. A much greater percentage of people have experienced sexual harassment without physical contact. And these numbers only reflect reported instances of these events.

And these are just the documented cases. Based on purely anecdotal data, it’s safe to assume that many, many more people have experienced sexual trauma and chosen not to report it. When the #MeToo movement2 took social media by storm in 2017, the sheer volume of posts and responses suggested that the actual number of people who have been assaulted is much, much greater than that shown by statistics.

This idea is bolstered by the #WhyIDidntReport movement, 3in which people shared their reasons for remaining silent about assault. Researchers found that these reasons fall into a number of categories, including (but not limited to) shame, denial, fear, hopelessness, substance misuse, and even the desire to protect their assailant from legal consequences. Data also suggests that male survivors are less likely to report rape.4 As a result, we may never know exactly how common this experience is.

Sexual trauma can be extremely harmful, in both clear and unexpected ways. While it’s easy to see how physical violence can cause injury, some of the other effects of assault are far less visible.

Mental Health Conditions

Research has found that “the most frequently observed symptoms following rape are fear and anxiety.”5 And 44% of survivors reported moderate or severe symptoms of depression within one month of their assault. These symptoms may last for a short period of time after the event, or they may indicate the onset of a chronic mental health condition.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is perhaps the most likely diagnosis for survivors of sexual trauma. Findings “indicate that PTSD is common and severe following sexual assault.”6 This condition may result in flashbacks, dissociation, anxiety, and even physical symptoms. Most people with PTSD also struggle with triggers. A trigger is an event that reminds you of a traumatic experience, causing you to respond in a way that is disproportionate to current circumstances but would have been appropriate during the initial incident.

If the experience of sexual trauma occurred over a prolonged period of time, or was one aspect of long-term domestic violence, it may result in complex PTSD (c-PTSD).7 This condition is similar to PTSD, with slightly different symptoms. Some rehab programs are specifically designed to help clients with both PTSD and C-PTSD.

Decreased Self-Esteem

Survivors of sexual assault share a tendency to blame themselves for what happened. It can be hard to reconcile the experience of losing agency with the personal responsibility to heal after trauma. According to experts, “Self-blame is a central construct in the sexual assault recovery8 field theorized to be related to the loss of control that occurs during the assault and internalized feelings of responsibility for the assault happening and/or for one’s responses to it.”

Perhaps as a result of this, survivors of rape report “significantly lower self-esteem” than people who have not experienced sexual trauma. This symptom can make them more vulnerable to other adverse experiences, such as abuse, serious mental health conditions, and substance misuse.

Changes to Sexuality

Assault is not sex.9 It may be about sex. And by definition, sexual trauma includes sexual acts. But sex requires consent. That being said, this type of trauma can change the way a survivor feels about consensual sex. After rape, consensual sex may feel unsafe, triggering, or even physically painful. It’s quite common for a person’s interest in sex to change drastically after being assaulted.

Although “sexual assaults alter the frequency of [survivors’] sexual interactions,”10 these changes are not always straightforward. Some survivors may become sex-repulsed, and even decide to be celibate for a time. Others may show signs of hypersexuality, in which they seek out as many consensual sexual experiences as possible. In fact, data suggests that hypersexuality may be directly linked to PTSD.11 Because of this, experts have called for research into possible connections between trauma and sex addiction.

Substance Use Disorders

Many survivors of sexual trauma go on to develop substance use disorders. This coping mechanism, while unhealthy, can feel like a way of self-medicating. It may also help survivors temporarily regain a sense of agency. However, it is not an effective way to heal. Substance misuse simply provides a brief break from survivors’ most difficult symptoms, and in the long term it may result in even more serious issues.

According to experts, there’s “overwhelming evidence that victims/survivors of sexual violence are much more likely to use alcohol and other drugs12 to cope with the trauma of their victimization. Women with sexual abuse histories were more likely to report more drug-related problems…A vicious cycle may develop in which an already traumatized individual who uses substances to cope is at greater risk of experiencing additional trauma.” These behaviors may also damage the survivors’ relationships, making it difficult for them to get the support they need.

Other Impacts of Sexual Assault

In addition to its emotional impact on the survivor, sexual trauma can have an effect on their wider community. This can be true in the short term, as people react to the news of the event, and in the long term, as the survivor’s needs from those around them change.

Impact on Interpersonal Relationships

Because trauma may cause changes to the survivor’s sexuality, it often has a direct effect on their current and future romantic relationships. And depending on how a partner reacts to hearing about their history, it may result in either deeper or more fragile trust.

This disclosure, to both partners and friends, is an extremely important part of long-term healing. “A growing body of research suggests that the type of social reactions sexual assault survivors receive from others13 can have a profound impact on their health and well-being.”

Community Impact

There are a number of myths about sexual assault,14 including the idea that it’s normally perpetrated by a stranger. When we think of rape, we may imagine a person wearing a ski mask in a dark alley, grabbing an unsuspecting passerby. While this does sometimes happen, the vast majority of assaults are perpetrated by a person the survivor already knows.

According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), 80% of rapes are committed by someone in the survivor’s life.15 39% of perpetrators are acquaintances, and 33% are current or former romantic partners. And these events are associated with significantly higher rates of PTSD and depression than those perpetrated by strangers. “It is also likely that the breach of trust and sense of humiliation women may experience after intimate partner sexual violence16 may contribute to poor mental health outcomes.”

When the survivor and perpetrator share a community, they may both face significant social struggles after the trauma occurs. Survivors risk not being believed, losing friends, and losing access to community spaces inhabited by the perpetrator. Because social support is such an important part of healing, this can make it difficult to move forward.

“This stacked deck, known as ‘rape culture,’17 is the set of social attitudes about sexual assault that leads to survivors being treated with skepticism and even hostility, while perpetrators are shown empathy and imbued with credibility not conferred on people accused of other serious crimes, like armed robbery.” And rape culture has a quantifiable impact on the availability of resources for survivors.18

Healing From Sexual Trauma

Healing from sexual violence19 is a process that entails ups and downs. You can absolutely heal, but it’s important to be patient with yourself. Over time, you may recover repressed memories, find that triggers have resurfaced, or even be retraumatized by future events. Because of this, it’s important to develop a strong set of tools that will help you navigate life after sexual trauma.20 Certain styles of therapy can be especially helpful for survivors.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been proven to be effective for trauma survivors. Specifically, experts believe that cognitive processing therapy (CPT), which is one subset of CBT skills, can help clients heal from sexual trauma.

In CPT, clients examine their own deepest beliefs and emotional responses. It follows a very specific protocol, and is normally delivered over the course of 12 sessions. During this time, the client recounts the traumatic event with the goal of re-experiencing their own emotional reactions to it. Then, they evaluate their feelings, learning to modify their logical response to their own emotional experience.

Exposure Therapy

In this type of therapy, clients recount their most difficult memories, intentionally causing themselves to have a triggered emotional response in a safer context. This work can be extremely difficult, and should always be guided by a skilled practitioner.

Much like CBT and CPT, exposure therapy22 teaches you to navigate your own most painful emotions. As hard as the therapeutic process can be, it imparts valuable skills that help clients navigate future triggers and challenges.

Body Awareness

Sexual trauma can cause survivors to dissociate, feeling as if they’ve lost ownership over their own bodies. Reclaiming your body after sexual assault23 can be both difficult and immensely helpful.

This is an extremely personal process, even more so than some other forms of healing. The important thing is to choose activities that work for you, and not only those that you believe should work. Some clients benefit from a combination of exercise, massage therapy, healthy eating, or mindful meditation on physical sensations.

Simply learning to feel at home in your own body is a powerful coping mechanism. This skill may also help survivors avoid engaging in unhealthy behaviors, like substance misuse.

Rehab for Sexual Trauma

Sexual trauma often causes survivors to develop unhealthy coping mechanisms, including substance use disorders and eating disorders. It can also result in co-occurring mental health diagnoses, like depression and anxiety.

Fortunately, many rehabs specialize in treating dual diagnoses. As a result, these facilities are equipped to help survivors with more than one concern. Some programs also offer trauma-informed care, which is specifically designed to treat survivors. This may be appropriate for anyone with a history of trauma, whether or not that trauma includes consent violations.

If you choose to attend rehab for sexual trauma, it’s important to manage your own expectations about the healing process. Rehab can’t undo what happened to you. But it can help you develop the tools you need to successfully navigate life in its aftermath.

Living With a History of Trauma

Healing from sexual violence is a lifelong process. It may result in permanent changes to your sex life, relationships, and sense of self. That being said, not all of these changes need to be negative. Experts have found that “recovery from sexual victimization is possible”—and you may even experience post-traumatic growth.24

Whatever the future holds, though, healing from trauma often begins with being present in the moment. Many clients benefit from simply accepting difficult emotions, instead of trying to ignore or “fix” them. This can be helpful both for clients healing from a recent assault, and for those who had a traumatic experience long ago. No matter what happened to you in the past, understand that you have the right to heal. And you have the right to ask for help.

Your journey toward healing can begin whenever you’re ready—discover how trauma treatment programs can provide the supportive environment and specialized care to help transform your pain into growth and renewal.

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Healing Treatment-Resistant Depression With Psilocybin

Psilocybin is a chemical compound most often associated with “magic mushrooms.” Despite historical stigma, researchers have begun exploring its potential medical applications. This powerful medicine may be especially helpful for clients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).

This can be an all-consuming diagnosis, and many clients struggle to find effective depression treatment. While some people benefit from tried-and-true medications, like SSRIs and mood stabilizers, these solutions don’t work for everyone. Fortunately, doctors and scientists are actively seeking new ways to treat these clients using experimental modalities. A few options, like ketamine therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS),1 are becoming increasingly popular. Psychedelics are also a promising option.

Psychedelic medicine is an increasingly popular treatment2 for a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. And a growing body of research supports the theory that psilocybin can be extremely effective in treating TRD.

What Is Psilocybin?

Psilocybin3 is classified as a psychedelic. Substances of this kind “interact with the serotonin receptors (5-HT/5-hydroxytryptamine receptors) and their subtypes densely located within the brain. These receptors mediate emotions and moods such as anxiety and aggression, cognition, sex, learning memory, appetite along with other biological, neurological and neuropsychiatric processes.” The same receptors are also targeted by many pharmaceuticals, including antipsychotics and antidepressants.

Because of its effect on serotonin, scientists are researching psilocybin as a possible treatment for depression, anxiety,4 and a number of other mental health concerns. However, it faces a great deal of social stigma, since it can also be used recreationally. And any recreational substance can be misused. Despite this concern, psychedelics are comparatively safe;5 according to 2013 statistics, LSD and psilocybin combined “accounted for just 0.005 percent of US emergency room visits.”

Psilocybin has not always been legal in the U.S., even for purely scientific purposes. But this is starting to change. As we learn more about its medical applications, it will likely become more accessible to interested clients. As of December, 2021, it has been decriminalized in Denver, Oakland, Santa Cruz, and Detroit. California may soon take this a step further. Senate Bill 519, if passed, would decriminalize psilocybin,6 MDMA, and other psychedelics in the entire state.

Some experts believe this trend will continue. According to one article, despite once being “dismissed as the dangerous dalliances of the counterculture, these drugs are gaining mainstream acceptance. Several states and cities in the United States are in the process of legalizing or decriminalizing psilocybin for therapeutic or recreational purposes.”7

Psilocybin is not considered to be addictive.8 On the contrary, it may even help people recover from substance use disorders. If you think this treatment may be right for you, make sure to use it under medical supervision. Despite its apparent safety, any substance has the potential to be harmful, or to cause relapse.

The Experience of Psilocybin

The word “psychedelic,”3 first used in 1956, comes from the Greek roots “psyche (i.e., the mind or soul) and delos (i.e., to show).” This class of substances can cause visions that reveal a person’s deepest emotional experiences. Using them offers many clients valuable insight into their own mental health.

When taken in larger doses, psilocybin induces a psychedelic “trip,” in which users spend several hours going through an emotional or even spiritual journey. It’s important to undertake this type of experience in a safe and welcoming environment. Research suggests that psilocybin may be especially effective in a natural setting,9 where clients can spend time communing with the great outdoors.

It’s also possible to take psilocybin in smaller amounts, or microdoses. Research has “identified positive associations between microdosing and mental health,10 and…associations between microdosing and reduced severity of symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress among adults with reported mental health concerns.” These experiences can be more accessible, because they are shorter and/or less intense than larger doses. This is a good option for clients who want to improve their mental well-being, but don’t have the emotional capacity to spend several hours experiencing visions.

Mental Health Benefits of Psilocybin

Psychedelics in general, and psilocybin in particular, have a number of known mental health benefits. In one study, “the people who received psilocybin reported significantly more improvements in their general feelings and behavior11 than did the members of the control group. The findings were repeated in another follow-up survey, taken 14 months after the experiment.”

Specifically, research suggests that this medicine may alleviate symptoms of depression,12 suicidality, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and several types of substance misuse. Subjects have shown “increased ratings of positive attitudes, mood, social effects, and behavior,” even up to 14 months after receiving psilocybin.

For clients with treatment-resistant depression, this is a comparatively safe and low-impact treatment, especially because the controlled use of psilocybin can have such long-term effects. Unlike most medications—like SSRIs—it doesn’t need to be taken daily in order to be effective. This may also make it more accessible to clients who can’t easily afford a regular prescription.

What’s more, psilocybin may be just as effective as these more common treatments. More and more research supports this idea. One study “suggested that psilocybin might work as well as the common antidepressant13 escitalopram (Lexapro) at relieving moderate to severe depression.” Another found that microdoses of psilocybin may cause long-term changes to brain activity,14 causing “increased responses in reward-learning, attention, and decision-making circuits.”

Clients with TRD may also see benefits from this treatment that go beyond relieving their symptoms. For example, experts believe that psilocybin “increases cognitive and neural flexibility in patients with major depressive disorder.”15

Although the data is extremely promising, it’s important to remember that this is a relatively new field of study. Psilocybin is considered to be one of the safer substances available, but it is not entirely without risk.

Potential Risks of Psilocybin

This treatment has some well-known side effects. “About 90% of patients” in one clinical trial “experienced mild to moderate side effects from the psilocybin,16 including nausea, insomnia, fatigue and headache. These symptoms dissipated quickly.” It is most strongly associated with brief gastrointestinal issues. Clients usually experience these symptoms shortly after ingesting psilocybin, and find relief long before the substance wears off.

For certain clients, however, the treatment may cause more dangerous adverse effects. Because psilocybin raises blood pressure,17 “people with uncontrolled hypertension are advised to abstain.” Make sure you talk to your doctor before seeking this treatment, especially if you have a personal or family history of heart problems.

The associated psychological risks may be an even greater concern, especially for clients with certain mental health diagnoses. For example, those with “psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia (or a strong predisposition for them) are generally advised against taking the hallucinogen,” as it may have unpredictable effects, and can even worsen their condition.

And although psilocybin can be extremely helpful for treatment-resistant depression, it is absolutely imperative that these clients use it under medical supervision. This is because, in the wrong dosage, it may cause suicidality. In one clinical trial,13 some participants with TRD “experienced a ‘serious adverse event,’ such as suicidal behavior, intentional self-injury or suicidal ideation.” This may have been due to an incorrect dosage or inadequate medical supervision, either during or after the experience. Whatever the reason, this data illustrates that there is still much to learn about this treatment. If you decide to try it, a private rehab center that offers psilocybin treatment will ensure you do so under the supervision of an experienced clinical team and a clear plan for aftercare.

Unlike most, or possibly all, other pharmaceutical treatments, psychedelics are strongly influenced by the client’s intention. “Positive expectancy”18—or, the expectation that the treatment will help—has been shown to have an impact on psilocybin’s effectiveness. If you go into an experience with acute anxiety, trepidation, or a belief that it will go poorly, you’ll probably be proven right. On the other hand, if you’re in a positive or hopeful state, you may experience much greater benefits. It’s important to plan these experiences carefully, but also stay mindful of your own feelings in the moment as you approach treatment. If you’ve planned extremely well, and then you feel poorly when the day arrives, it’s best to postpone if at all possible.

Is Psilocybin Right for You?

Psilocybin, even more than other treatments, is an extremely personal experience. Not everyone is emotionally prepared to dive that deeply into their own subconscious. And even if it feels right for you, it may not be appropriate on any given day. The act of planning this treatment can be a powerful exercise in mindfulness, even before the substance is administered.

Under the right circumstances, though, clients find psilocybin to be immensely positive. And as we amass more data, doctors will likely find ways to make it even safer. If you decide to try this treatment, understand that there is still much to learn. In this early stage of research, it should absolutely not be your only form of treatment for any diagnosis. But with the right setting, dosage, and therapeutic team, it may be extremely helpful.

Discover Rehabs That Treat Depression

Latest studies show that psilocybin is a promising treatment for depression, however this form of therapy isn’t widely available yet. At the same time, there are several other forms of therapies and treatment programs for depression out there. To learn more about your options, browse our collection of rehabs that specialize in depression treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Treating Depression With Psilocybin

What is psilocybin and how does it work in depression treatment?

Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms. It interacts with serotonin receptors and their subtypes in the brain, leading to altered states of consciousness. Because of its impact on serotonin, it has potential therapeutic effects in depression and anxiety treatment.

What are the potential benefits of psilocybin in treating depression?

Psilocybin-assisted therapy has shown promise in improving mood, reducing depressive symptoms, increasing emotional openness, and promoting long-term positive changes in individuals with treatment-resistant depression.

Is psilocybin treatment for depression safe and legal?

Psilocybin is a Schedule I controlled substance in many countries, but it is being researched for therapeutic purposes. Psilocybin-assisted therapy is conducted in a controlled and supervised setting to ensure safety. Ongoing studies aim to assess its efficacy and safety profiles.

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Attending Rehab for Work-Related Burnout

Burnout can affect anyone. Even if you love your work, it’s possible to get overwhelmed. And ignoring your exhaustion may just exacerbate your symptoms. If you feel yourself hitting a wall, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. This experience is widespread enough that there are many rehab programs designed to treat work-related burnout.

This condition isn’t permanent—or at least, it doesn’t have to be. Although burnout is a collection of mental health symptoms, it is not a long-term diagnosis, like depression or anxiety. Instead, it is the result of external circumstances, combined with unsustainable work habits. It is highly treatable, but it should not be ignored.

Understanding Job Burnout

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Burn-out is a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress1 that has not been successfully managed.” It is characterized by exhaustion, increased cynicism or mental distance from one’s job, and a sense of ineffectiveness or lack of accomplishment. These symptoms must specifically occur in the context of work, and not describe other areas of the client’s life.

Unfortunately, this condition is on the rise. In one study, 52% of respondents reported experiencing burnout2 in 2021, up from only 43% in 2020. This may be partly due to the stress of current events, although more research is needed. Whatever the root cause, it’s clear that high levels of stress have become pervasive in the culture of the workplace.

Even if you’re not personally going through burnout, the numbers indicate that most people work with those who are. By compensating for your colleagues’ exhaustion, you may be at risk of developing the same condition. This is especially important because of the social aspects of burnout.3 The three primary symptoms of this condition, as described above, place “the individual stress experience within a social context,” which may cause it to negatively impact your relationships.

Experts have identified 6 key domains of a person’s life that are related to burnout. Stress within these areas may represent a risk factor for developing symptoms.

Workload

“Overwork is a main cause of burnout.”4 If you can’t take time off, you may experience both mental and physical symptoms of exhaustion. These can include anxiety, a lack of focus, loss of sleep, and even physical pain. Insufficient rest can also increase levels of cortisol,5 the stress hormone, which may lead to additional health issues.

When you have too much to do, it can become difficult to prioritize and deprioritize various tasks. You might spend hours color-coding a spreadsheet, but be too tired to brush your teeth. This type of inattention can cause additional problems at work, if you simply don’t have the time or energy to complete important projects. Over time, these behavioral patterns can increase your workload even further, causing you to spiral into a state of exhaustion.

Control

Healthcare professionals often assess burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory, a tool that asks clients to rate their emotional experience of exhaustion, cynicism, and similar criteria. Christina Maslach, creator of this scale, explains that “control problems occur when workers have insufficient authority6 over their work or are unable to shape the work environment to be consistent with their values. A sense of efficacy is unlikely to occur when workers are feeling buffeted by circumstances or powerful people within the organization.”

At first glance, it may seem that this lack of control mostly affects employees, rather than high-level executives. But this dynamic is more complex than it appears. Workers at every level have a responsibility to various people, whether those people are employers, employees, shareholders, or clientele. No matter your position, certain circumstances may make you feel like your needs are less important than the company’s. If you find that you have irreconcilable differences, it may sound appealing to simply change jobs. If you’re in a position of power, however, it’s not always that simple.

the dawn rehab burnout treatment
The Dawn Rehab in Chiang Mai, Thailand treats burnout using a combination of evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapies and Eastern holistic wellness practices.

Reward

In the context of work, the idea of reward is often linked to income. If you’re making less than you’re worth, you may be at a greater risk for burnout. But that’s just one aspect of this issue.

It’s also possible for your work to be unrewarding in and of itself. Almost no amount of money can make up for a boss who constantly berates you. And that lack of recognition can go in both directions. Many top executives spend more time-solving problems than they do receiving praise. Even if this pattern is good for the company, it can wreak havoc on your mental health.

Community

Community is an extremely important part of individual mental health.7 According to one expert, groups that “provide individuals with a sense of meaning, purpose, and belonging…have positive psychological consequences.” Without a strong workplace community, you may be at a greater risk for burnout.

When an unsupportive culture is combined with an above-average workload, you may struggle to maintain meaningful relationships. If you don’t have time to socialize outside of work, you’ll depend on your colleagues for emotional connectivity. This pattern is unsustainable at best, and can be extremely harmful. If this is a primary contributor to your experience of burnout, you may want to consider a rehab program that can help you learn to build community.

Fairness

Even as children, human beings have an innate sense of fairness.8 In adults, of course, this matures into a more complex understanding of equality. At any age, we long to be treated well, receiving the compensation and recognition we feel we’ve earned.

Our perceived sense of fairness impacts our productivity,9 and perceived injustice can lead to burnout. Research suggests that when workers feel they are being treated unfairly, they are likely to take more sick time. This is often caused by objectively unfair treatment, such as racism or sexism. However, the perception of unfairness is equally important. If you believe that you’ve been unfairly passed over for a promotion—even if your employer has good reasons for choosing someone else—you may become more cynical about your work.

Values

When a worker’s values and goals don’t align with those of the company, it “may result in lower job satisfaction4 and negatively impact mental health,” writes Jennifer Moss, author of The Burnout Epidemic: The Rise of Chronic Stress and How We Can Fix It. This misalignment can sometimes be avoided through clear communication, especially at the time a person is hired. However, that’s not always possible. Both people and companies change over time. If you’re with a company long enough to go through major life transitions—such as getting married or becoming a parent—your needs may shift significantly.

In order to find a workplace that shares your priorities, you must first be able to articulate what you value. There’s no right or wrong answer to this question, but it’s important to be ruthlessly honest with yourself. For example, imagine you’re a person who highly values creative expression, and you’re working at a company focused on robust scientific research. While both of these are laudable pursuits, you might not be happy sitting at a desk and crunching numbers. No one is at fault. But it’s your responsibility to define your needs and look for ways to meet them.

Signs and Symptoms of Burnout

When your needs aren’t being met, you’re at a high risk of burning out. And if you’re used to prioritizing others’ needs over your own, it can be hard to notice this before it becomes a problem. Unfortunately, it’s quite common for people to ignore their exhaustion until it becomes unmanageable.

According to experts at The Dawn Rehab in Chiang Mai, Thailand, you can recognize burnout by watching for the following symptoms:

  • Mental and physical exhaustion
  • Pessimism
  • Loss of interest in your job
  • Interpersonal issues in the office
  • Relationship and intimacy issues
  • Irrational irritability
  • Decreased productivity

Many workers—and especially high achievers—feel the pressure to just power through these symptoms, no matter how debilitating they may be. As tempting as it is, that strategy just isn’t effective. Even if the only goal is to do your job well, remember that you will be more effective at work if you take care of your mental health first. And what’s more, you deserve the same care and attention that you offer your colleagues and your clients.

all points north lodge burnout treatment
All Points North Lodge in Vail Valley, Colorado uses cutting-edge therapeutic technologies like hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) to treat burnout and other mental health conditions.

Attending Rehab for Burnout

Rehab isn’t just for substance use disorders. Many programs are specifically tailored to help clients heal from job burnout. In this type of treatment, you can expect to balance your time between relaxation and more traditional therapies.

Inpatient treatment isn’t a vacation. However, treating burnout is calming and rejuvenating. During this time, you’ll take a break from work, reassess your priorities, and develop more sustainable habits to use in the future. Your program may include a number of different components.

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy helps clients reconnect with themselves. You’ll work with a provider to define your personal values and find ways to honor them in your daily life. You may also work through cynicism or resentment, and develop skills to avoid unhealthy behavioral patterns.

As you get to know yourself again, you may also learn to differentiate between regular stress and the warning signs of burnout. If your work gets out of hand in the future, this knowledge can help you recognize warning signs as early as possible.

Mindfulness

Meditation, yoga, and other mindfulness practices help you stay in the present moment. With these skills, clients are better equipped to regulate their emotions. While stress is sometimes unavoidable, you can gain some amount of control over your own response to it.

Massage Therapy

Massage isn’t just rejuvenating; it can also help strengthen the connection between body and mind. By relieving physical tension, clients may also learn to let go of emotional stress. Different types of massage therapy may be more focused on relaxation or on relieving specific areas of pain. Either way, clients often find that this modality helps them work through both physical and emotional symptoms.

Therapeutic Technologies

Some facilities offer access to cutting-edge technologies known to relieve symptoms of burnout and exhaustion. At All Points North Lodge, for example, you may engage in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), which is known to alleviate anxiety, depression, and a host of physical conditions. Your team of experts will help you decide whether this treatment is appropriate, given your unique health needs.

Personalized Recovery From Job Burnout

Burnout may cause you to feel emotionally disconnected, both from those around you and from your own needs. Because of this, treatment is often personalized for each specific client.

By choosing between a variety of therapies, you can reconnect with your own most deeply held needs, goals, and values. At its best, this process is both therapeutic and enjoyable. This is your opportunity to decide what it means for you, specifically, to live a healthy life.

To learn more, browse our list of rehab programs that treat work-related burnout.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab for Job Burnout

What are the signs of burnout?

Signs of burnout are often physical, behavioral, and emotional:

• Mental and physical exhaustion
• Decreased productivity 
• Irritability
• Loss of interest in your job
• Interpersonal issues at work 
• Relationship and intimacy issues

Can you go to rehab for burnout?

Yes, you can go to rehab for burnout. Treatment programs for workplace burnout often combine conventional therapies, like talk therapy, with relaxation techniques.

How do you treat burnout?

The first step is to pause work as you reassess priorities and develop more sustainable habits. Burnout treatment at rehab often includes talk therapy, mindfulness, therapeutic technologies, massage, and more.

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Finding Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a serious diagnosis. Without proper treatment, it can be extremely destabilizing—both for the person who has the condition, and for those around them. If you have this diagnosis, it’s vital to get the care you need. For some clients, inpatient rehab is a helpful place to start.

About 2.8% of the population has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder1 (once called manic-depressive disorder). And 83% of those cases are classified as severe. However, these numbers do not account for cases that go undiagnosed. It’s also frequently misdiagnosed as schizophrenia or borderline personality disorder (BPD). Without a proper understanding of your condition, it’s unlikely for clients to get appropriate treatment for their mental health.

If you think this diagnosis may fit your experience, it’s important to learn more about it. Make sure you talk to a mental health professional before you pursue a particular plan of care.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

This condition is characterized by “intense emotional states that typically occur during distinct periods of days to weeks, called mood episodes,”2 according to the American Psychiatric Association. “These mood episodes are categorized as manic/hypomanic (abnormally happy or irritable mood) or depressive (sad mood). People with bipolar disorder generally have periods of neutral mood as well.”

While its exact etiology is unknown, experts believe this condition can be caused by a combination of factors. You may have a genetic predisposition to bipolar disorder,3 even if previous generations of your family were never diagnosed. It may also be related to a neurochemical imbalance. Some experts believe it can be caused or exacerbated by adverse life experiences.

The term “bipolar” may lead casual observers to believe that the associated mood swings are simple. That’s far from the truth. Mania4 isn’t just happiness; it can include sleeplessness, anxiety, irritability, and disproportionate anger. It can also cause impulsivity, which may lead to excessive spending, promiscuity, or substance misuse. Similarly, depressive episodes aren’t simply bouts of sadness. Symptoms mimic those of major depression, and may include fatigue, oversleeping, trouble concentrating, over- or undereating, and suicidal ideation, in addition to sadness.

Clients with bipolar disorder are also prone to a third emotional state, called hypomania. Hypomania is often characterized as a less severe version of classic mania. Clients still present with energy, impulsivity, and other signs of mania; however, their symptoms are less overwhelming. And unlike mania, “hypomania5 does not cause a major deficit in social or occupational functioning.” By definition, it lasts for at least four days, whereas mania lasts for at least a week.

Based on the frequency and severity of the client’s mania, hypomania, and depression, bipolar disorder may be classified in one of three ways.

Bipolar Disorder I

According to experts at Creative Care Calabasas, “bipolar I is the most severe form of the mental health condition.” To qualify for this diagnosis, clients must experience mania for at least one week. Their behavior “must represent a change from the person’s usual behavior and be clear to friends and family. Symptoms must be severe enough to cause dysfunction in work, family, or social activities and responsibilities.” Clients with this type of bipolar disorder also experience depressive episodes that may last for weeks at a time. In severe cases, hospitalization can be necessary.

Bipolar Disorder II

Bipolar II is more often associated with depressive episodes. Clients with this condition experience similar swings, but their mania is both less severe and less frequent. Some experience depressive episodes interspersed with hypomanic episodes, without ever showing symptoms of mania.

Cyclothymic Disorder

Clients with cyclothymic disorder also cycle between depression and hypomania. This condition includes less severe symptoms than other forms of bipolar. It can also take much longer to get an accurate diagnosis. Clients must experience mood swings for at least two years, without ever meeting the exact criteria for bipolar I or bipolar II.

Living With Bipolar Disorder

It’s important to remember that bipolar disorder is a medical diagnosis, and not a reflection of a person’s character. Like any other diagnosis—from diabetes to depression—it can have a huge impact on the rest of your life. Conversely, the events of your life may make your symptoms more or less severe. Clients may have difficulty navigating regular activities as a result of this condition.

Important Life Events

Trauma is linked to the development of many psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, and a number of mood disorders. Bipolar is no exception. Experts agree that “​​childhood trauma6 in all its subcomponents appears to be highly associated” with this condition.

And after developing bipolar disorder, various life events may bring on severe mood swings. Both traumatic events and extremely positive experiences may be risk factors.7 Research has found that “bipolar patients are highly sensitive to reward, and excessive goal pursuit after goal-attainment events may be one pathway to mania. Negative life events predict depressive symptoms, as do levels of familial expressed emotion.”

Career

When even positive events can trigger your symptoms, it may be difficult to maintain an upward trajectory. For that reason, bipolar disorder interferes with some clients’ ability to work.

One study found that “Occupational disability is one of the most problematic impairments for individuals with bipolar disorder due to high rates of unemployment and work impairments. Current evidence indicates that social stressors at work8—such as social isolation, conflict with others, and stigmas—are common experiences for employed individuals with bipolar disorder.”

These social stressors can make or break a clients’ success in the workplace. And for people with bipolar, even more than for other clients, social support is hugely impactful throughout the healing process.

Community Building

Strong relationships are uniquely important for people with this condition. Data suggests that social support9 may be directly linked to the severity and frequency of clients’ symptoms.

Some rehab programs have a unique focus on the social aspect of healing. Gould Farm, for instance, is a therapeutic community that treats clients with bipolar disorder. Residents receive clinical care from a team of healthcare providers, and also participate in community efforts. This treatment model is designed to help clients “learn new skills, and others re-discover their strengths, building confidence and self-esteem.”

According to experts, “empathy and understanding from another person can make it easier to cope with bipolar disorder.10 Social interaction can also provide opportunities to challenge negative ruminative thoughts and prevent the onset of a major mood episode.” A loss of social support, on the other hand, can trigger either mania or depression.

When your diagnosis has such a great impact on so many aspects of life, it can be hard to disentangle your symptoms from your healthy emotional reactions. And remember, not all healthy reactions are positive. For example, it’s perfectly healthy to experience anxiety if you have to switch jobs. Clients with bipolar disorder may struggle to stay present with that anxiety, instead of tipping into a manic episode. This difficulty can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance misuse.

Bipolar and Substance Use Disorders

There is a high prevalence of substance use disorders among people with bipolar disorder.11 This may be an attempt to self-medicate by regulating unstable moods, and/or response to symptomatic impulsivity.12

Also, experts believe there may be “a shared neurobiology between bipolar disorder and addictions.”13 If this is true, it would mean that people with a diagnosis of bipolar are neurologically predisposed to substance use disorders. Much more research is needed on this subject, however.

Because bipolar disorder may be related to neurochemical imbalances,14 substance use of any kind may have a direct impact on your symptoms. That’s true of both substance misuse and appropriate use of prescription medications. For this reason, it’s absolutely vital for clients to receive care from clinicians who have experience with this diagnosis.

If you have both bipolar disorder and a substance use disorder, you may benefit from rehab for co-occurring disorders. These programs address each client as a whole person, rather than treating each symptom individually. And, they may have a higher success rate. According to the experts at Skyland Trail, “research indicates that people who address multiple psychiatric diagnoses simultaneously experience better long-term outcomes than those who try to address each diagnosis separately.”

Healing From Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition. Once you receive this diagnosis, it will probably continue to apply for the rest of your life. That being said, bipolar can absolutely go into remission, and some clients go for long periods of time between manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes. With appropriate care and management, you can significantly improve your quality of life.

While there are a number of ways to treat bipolar disorder, most clients benefit from a combination of therapy and medication.15 During treatment, you’ll work closely with your providers to decide which options are best for you. Certain modalities have been found to be extremely effective.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy is a powerful way to begin healing from almost any mental health diagnosis. With this approach, you’ll develop a one-on-one relationship with a provider. Therapy sessions will take place more often during inpatient treatment—sometimes even daily. Outside of rehab, it’s quite common for clients to meet with their therapists once a week. However, your specific clinician may suggest you see each other either more or less often.

This modality allows clients to work through difficult feelings in a safe context. Therapy can work as a release valve, in which you can express extreme feelings without jeopardizing other relationships. It’s your therapist’s job to hold space for you, no matter what you think or how you feel. You can safely and ethically set aside any concern that they’ll judge you negatively for having mood swings.

Research has demonstrated that therapy is extremely important for people with this condition. Experts write that “psychotherapy, when added to medication for the treatment of bipolar disorder, consistently shows advantages over medication alone as a treatment for bipolar disorder.16 There are many different types of psychotherapy. If you attend an inpatient program, the team at your facility will help you choose which modality best suits your needs.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches clients how to change their own thought patterns using practical, repeatable strategies. For example, you might learn to recognize when your own thoughts are distorted or divorced from reality. In those moments, CBT skills can help you ground yourself in the present moment, and respond from a calmer place.

Data suggests that this type of therapy is especially helpful for clients with certain conditions. Specifically, it “has a positive impact on patients with bipolar disorder17 in terms of reducing depression levels, improving mania severity, decreasing relapse rates and increasing psychosocial functioning.”

Psychiatry and Medication

Medication can be hugely beneficial for people with this diagnosis. Specifically, psychiatrists often prescribe lithium, lamotrigine, or antidepressants such as Prozac. Because bipolar disorder is thought to be a neurochemical imbalance, these treatments may be necessary even if talk therapy proves helpful.

However, it’s also important to consider the relationship between bipolar and substance use disorders. Even with a prescription in hand, some clients may be tempted to fall back into unhealthy patterns. In order to avoid this, it’s absolutely vital that you stay in close communication with your mental health team about your medication use. For some clients, having access to a prescription of any kind may be a trigger. If that’s the case for you, be sure to ask your therapist about substance-free alternatives.

Finding Balance With Bipolar Disorder

With extreme emotions, introspection can be difficult. Some clients with bipolar disorder struggle to find clarity, or even to ask for help. If these symptoms resonate with your experience, know that you have the right to reach out. It’s important to get the care you need.

Because bipolar disorder touches on so many aspects of life, it can be difficult to imagine what healing would look like. Remember that, no matter how severe your symptoms may be, no emotion lasts forever. You can and will feel differently. And, with the right support, you can even feel consistently better. It is absolutely possible for clients with bipolar to live rich and meaningful lives.

To learn more about inpatient treatment for this condition, you can browse our list of rehabs specializing in bipolar disorder.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab for Bipolar Disorder

What are the common treatment options for bipolar disorder?

Treatment for bipolar disorder often includes a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Medications like mood stabilizers are commonly prescribed, and therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and family therapy help with managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. Some people start treatment at an inpatient rehab.

How long does rehab for bipolar disorder typically last?

The duration of treatment for bipolar disorder varies depending on individual needs and response to interventions. It typically involves long-term management to stabilize mood and prevent relapse. Treatment may span several months to years, with regular follow-up appointments and adjustments to the treatment plan as necessary.

Can therapy alone be effective in treating bipolar disorder?

While therapy alone may not be sufficient for managing bipolar disorder, it plays a crucial role in the overall treatment plan. Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, helps individuals develop coping skills, improve self-awareness, and enhance relationships. Combined with medication and other interventions, therapy contributes to a comprehensive approach for bipolar disorder treatment.

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How Long Is Rehab for Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

The short answer is: it depends on your recovery goals. If you’re going through withdrawal, for instance, you may need short-term medical care. And after detox, most people go on to attend a 30-day rehab program. But many patients need more time in treatment—and that’s okay. As you compare different rehab programs, it’s important to think about how long your program will last. 

What Determines How Long Rehab Lasts?

Several factors affect how long you’ll spend in rehab. Your care team will evaluate your needs based on a number of criteria. 

How Severe Is Your Addiction?

Everyone’s experience of addiction is a little different. That includes the frequency and intensity of your drug use and your timeline for starting recovery. You could enter rehab with serious health issues due to years of untreated alcohol addiction. Or you might start treatment for meth addiction after taking it only a few times, already aware that you need help. Patients with more severe physical and mental health symptoms typically need more time in residential rehab. 

Do You Have Co-Occurring Disorders?

If you’re healing from co-occurring disorders, you may benefit from a longer stay. This gives your brain chemistry time to adjust—first to life without drug use, and then to any medications your care team prescribes. You may also need extra time to find the right types of treatment.

Are You Healing From Trauma?

Addiction and trauma often go hand in hand. Either one of these experiences can lead to the other. If you’re healing from both, your recovery journey might not be a linear experience. Some clients take a long time to unearth traumatic memories, and need expert care throughout that process. You could also find that after a short stay in rehab, returning home is the best way to continue your recovery. 

What Type of Treatment Do You Need?

There are many different ways to heal from drug addiction. In more traditional rehabs, you might start with detox and then go on to residential care. But some providers take a different approach. For example, ibogaine therapy is an alternative treatment that lasts just a few days. After you complete this type of therapy, you can return home, join an outpatient program, or go to residential rehab.

Other centers don’t adhere to a set timeline at all. In a rehab with individualized care, a team of experts will design a treatment plan just for you. Sometimes this means the length of the program itself can change to meet your needs. 

How Do You Respond to Treatment?

When you’re just starting recovery, you can only plan so far in advance. Your needs will almost certainly change over time. Along the way, you and your care team might decide you need more or less time in rehab than you originally planned. It’s important to remain flexible throughout your recovery journey. By taking adequate time to heal, you can set yourself up for long-term success.

The Length of Stay in Addiction Rehab

Although you can’t predict every aspect of your recovery, it’s still a good idea to think ahead. Talk to your doctor, therapist, or a rehab’s admissions team before you choose an addiction treatment program. They can recommend an initial length of stay, even if that changes in the future.

Short-Term Medical Detox

Medical detox can keep you safe during withdrawal. Depending on your health history, you may or may not need inpatient care at this stage. However, medical treatment is essential for people detoxing from alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. Quitting these substances has serious physical side effects. In some cases, withdrawal can even be fatal.1 

Most detox programs last 1-2 weeks. During that time, your care team will keep you as comfortable as possible. You might see a doctor, nurses, psychiatrist, talk therapist, or other specialists. Some programs also offer complementary treatments like massage therapy.

Inpatient detox is just one step in your healing journey. Many programs require patients to plan for longer-term care before they start withdrawal. Then when you finish detox, you’ll go directly to rehab. 

30-Day Rehab Programs

For most patients, this is an average rehab stay. A 30-day program gives you plenty of time to get used to your new environment and focus on the hard work of recovery. But because it’s only a month, you won’t need to make long-term arrangements before you leave home. 

This time frame works well for people who need brief but specialized care so they can plug back into their lives. It’s an especially good fit for clients with a strong support network. You can turn inward while you start treatment, and reconnect with loved ones in the next stage of recovery.

A 30-day program can also help you keep your recovery private. High-profile clients might have a hard time explaining a long time out of the spotlight. 

60-Day Rehab Programs

If you have a more complex diagnosis, you might benefit from a longer stay in rehab. These programs can work well for people with multiple addictions. They can also help you recommit to recovery after relapse. 

Patients with co-occurring disorders may also need more time in treatment. It takes up to 6 weeks for most psychiatric medications to take full effect.2 If you start new meds when you arrive in rehab, it’s a good idea to stay until you know they’re working well. Otherwise, you might need to adjust your dosage as soon as you get home. Of course, this timeline depends on finding the right prescription shortly after arriving at rehab. Treatment sometimes takes more trial and error than that. 

90-Day Rehab Programs

These programs are a good fit for people who need highly specialized care. You’ll have time to find the right medications, try several different types of therapy, and get to know yourself again. In some rehabs, you can also spend this time building community with your peers. 

If you want to start treatment by attending a 90-day program, you’ll probably need to make certain arrangements in advance. For example, you might need to take time off work or hire a house sitter. And if you’re hoping to pay for treatment with insurance, check to see if it will cover this type of care. 

6-Month, 1-Year, and 2-Year Rehab Programs

An extended stay in rehab does more than kick-start your recovery. It offers you a whole new foundation. You’ll have time to reinvent yourself in a completely different context, without the pressure of the life you’re used to. 

When you attend a long-term program, you can expect things back home to change while you’re away. You may lose touch with certain people, or return to find they’ve changed as much as you have. That can be overwhelming—but it can also aid in your recovery. If you want to reenvision your life from a brand new perspective, this type of rehab can help you get started. 

Sober Living Environments

Sober living centers serve a different purpose than short-term treatment facilities. While these programs offer some structure, they rarely include clinical care. You may or may not attend therapy, or even have access to on-site staff. But you’ll still need to follow certain rules.

Most sober living environments require residents to pass regular drug tests. You’ll probably also join in mandatory activities, like support group meetings or shared meals. Residents can usually leave the house alone, but you might have to adhere to a curfew. 

With these structures in place, sober living centers encourage you to take control of your own life. You’ll probably get a job or go to school outside the house. You may need to pay rent or maintain a certain GPA to stay in the program. Some of these environments will limit the time you can live there, but others allow you to stay on indefinitely. 

Trust the Process

Healing is unpredictable. You might be able to choose how long you spend in rehab—but you can’t decide how long it will take to heal. Some clients need to extend their stay, and some return to treatment more than once. By staying present with yourself and your changing needs, you can make the best possible choices about your recovery. 

Search our list of rehabs to find detox programs, sober living environments, and everything in between.

Frequently Asked Questions About Length of Stay in Drug and Alcohol Rehab

What factors determine how long rehab lasts?

The duration of rehab depends on several factors, including the severity of addiction, underlying trauma, and the presence of co-occurring disorders. People with more severe physical and mental health symptoms typically require longer stays in residential rehab.

What are the different types of rehab programs and their durations?

Rehab programs vary in length based on individual needs. Short-term medical detox typically lasts 1-2 weeks, while 30-day residential programs are common for those who need brief but intensive care. Complex diagnoses or co-occurring disorders may require longer stays of 60-90 days. Extended rehab programs of 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years offer a more comprehensive foundation for recovery. Sober living environments provide structure to support your transition back to daily life.

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Does CBD Help or Harm Sobriety?

The process of recovery is different for every person. For some, it includes the use of CBD. However, this is a controversial topic. Many believe that the use of any psychoactive substance, including prescribed medication, interferes with sobriety. And if you’re deciding whether or not CBD will play a role in your recovery journey, it’s important to remember that recovery isn’t about following universal rules. It’s a way to build a life that feels healthy for you.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of hundreds of active ingredients in cannabis. It’s readily—and legally—available in many areas. As more and more U.S. states legalize marijuana use,1 for medical and/or recreational purposes, CBD will likely become even more accessible.

Some areas have also decriminalized marijuana,2 with or without officially making it legal. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, “This generally means certain small, personal-consumption amounts are a civil or local infraction, not a state crime (or are the lowest misdemeanor with no possibility of jail time).” This speaks to a cultural shift in perspective.

Cannabis is becoming more socially acceptable and more accessible over time.3 As this trend continues, more researchers are studying its potential medical applications. Some of this research centers around the use of cannabis to treat mental health.4 Some evidence suggests that CBD, in particular, may be beneficial for people in recovery from substance use.

What Is CBD?

CBD is a cannabinoid.5 That is, it’s a chemical substance that interacts with the human body’s cannabinoid receptors. Cannabis plants are believed to produce between 80-100 different cannabinoids. You may be more familiar with THC, which is the most prevalent cannabinoid we know of, and which produces a “high.” CBD is “the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis.”6

The Chemistry of CBD

There is much research to be done on all cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. However, these two chemicals are the best-known, and most-researched, cannabinoids to date.

Many experts describe a simple difference between these two compounds: THC is psychoactive, and CBD is not.7 However, this may be an oversimplification. According to one source, “A chemical is considered psychoactive when it acts primarily on the central nervous system and alters brain function, resulting in temporary changes in perception, mood, consciousness or behavior.” Despite this distinction, it remains true that CBD, unlike THC, is not intoxicating.

There is a clear reason for this: CBD and THC have different neurochemical effects.8 Both CBD and THC act on the brain’s cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors. Even without the feeling of intoxication, CBD has a noticeable impact on brain chemistry and may be able to treat both physical and emotional symptoms.

The Experience of CBD

Research suggests that CBD may help treat anxiety,9 insomnia, chronic pain, inflammatory conditions, and symptoms associated with substance use disorders. Some people use it to help with acute symptoms, such as panic attacks and pain flare-ups. Others take it daily, to manage chronic conditions.

CBD is available in several forms. Tinctures can be added to food or taken sublingually, delivering the cannabinoid directly to the bloodstream. Vape oils and high-CBD plant strains can be inhaled, taking effect more quickly but lasting for a shorter time. Lotions and salves are used topically, for a greater impact on localized physical pain.

The effects of CBD can last for a matter of hours,10 depending on the dosage and your metabolism. In some cases, it can cause mild side effects like nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.

Medical Applications of CBD

Because it’s a relatively new subject of study, experts still have much to learn about the benefits and risks of CBD. To date, it’s believed to have a variety of medical applications.

Reportedly, more than 60% of CBD users find that it alleviates anxiety.11 In 2018, a purified version of the chemical was approved as a treatment for rare pediatric seizure disorders. It also regulates the perception of pain.12 Because of this, it may help treat conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, and rheumatoid arthritis.

There is some controversy about cannabis as a treatment for mental health conditions. However, preliminary research suggests that CBD may have antidepressant and antipsychotic qualities. And experts agree that CBD for addiction treatment is a promising area of study.13

CBD and Substance Use Disorders

A steadily growing body of research suggests that CBD may alleviate many of the symptoms associated with substance use disorders. According to one study, “the fact that patients with substance use disorders often present with various psychiatric and medical symptoms that are reduced by CBD—symptoms such as anxiety, mood symptoms, insomnia, and pain”14 suggests that this cannabinoid may help people in various stages of detox and recovery.

CBD is an especially promising option for people healing from opiate use. This is because certain cannabinoid receptors are co-localized with opioid receptors in the brain. As a result, CBD can have a direct impact on these receptors, which may help during withdrawal and detox.

Also, many people who overuse opiates do so because they experience physical pain. Because pain relief is one effect of CBD, the cannabinoid may decrease the underlying symptoms that lead to substance use.

Studies show that CBD may also be helpful for people recovering from cocaine and methamphetamines.15 Specifically, it has been shown to reverse “toxicity and seizures induced by cocaine, behavioural sensitization induced by amphetamines, [and the] motivation to self-administer cocaine.”

Beyond its application for recovery from these specific substances, CBD may help to alleviate cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. According to one study, CBD can even help people quit smoking.16

While there are other medical treatments to aid in this process, CBD may be an even safer option, because it has a low risk of chemical dependency. “According to a report from the World Health Organization, ‘In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential17…To date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.’”

Am I Still Sober if I Use CBD?

Although CBD is not believed to be habit-forming, it is still a substance. And people in recovery need to be mindful of how they use all medications. Because of this, it may or may not be appropriate for a person in recovery to use CBD.

One important part of recovery is learning to define what health means specifically for you. And your definitions of health and sobriety may change over time. As you approach these issues, it’s extremely important to stay true to yourself, and be honest with your mental healthcare team. You might also connect with a community that defines sobriety in a particular way, which may impact how you view your own recovery process.

Total Abstinence

For some people, sobriety means total abstinence from all psychoactive substances,18 including prescribed psychiatric medication. This strict boundary may even impact the way you approach your physical health. For example, some people in recovery from opiate use refuse narcotic medications at all costs, even when they have surgery.

There is nothing inherently right or wrong about this perspective. It has become common enough that most doctors can accommodate their patients’ needs without the use of these medications. It’s not an easy path, but for many people, it’s the right one.

Harm Reduction

Not everyone commits to total abstinence. And not everyone should. Some serious mental health conditions make prescription medications an absolute necessity. For example, people with bipolar disorder may experience debilitating depression if they abstain from mood stabilizers. At the end of the day, sobriety is meant to be a path toward health, not away from it.

Even Alcoholics Anonymous takes a nuanced approach to the idea of abstinence.19 They recommend that members who require medication continue to take it, but only if they can stay accountable to themselves, their communities, and their medical teams. It’s possible to use substances safely if you’re doing so under appropriate supervision.

As cannabis use becomes more and more culturally acceptable, we are likely to learn more about the medical applications of CBD, especially as relates to recovery from substance use disorders. Because of this, it may become more widely used by people who still consider themselves to be sober.

The Risks of CBD

Despite promising research, there are still some risks associated with CBD use. Although it’s not believed to be habit-forming, it is still a cannabinoid. And many CBD products include trace amounts of THC, which can sometimes be addictive. Studies suggest that 9% of people who smoke cannabis develop a dependence on it.20 For those without substance use disorders, that may be an acceptable risk. For some people in recovery, it may be too dangerous.

If you plan to use CBD in response to a substance use disorder, proceed carefully. Make sure to talk to your treatment providers about its potential risks and benefits, and find out if it can interact with any of your other medications.

Whether or not CBD is right for you, it’s important to be fully honest with yourself, your support network, and your healthcare providers about your experience. For example, if you decide to use cannabis in response to acute panic attacks, and then find yourself using it daily, this may be a warning sign. As with any other substance, it’s best to be mindful of the emotions you associate with its use. Like many other substances, it’s possible to use CBD appropriately. It’s also possible to misuse it, or to overuse it.

Finding Balance, With or Without CBD

As cannabis use becomes less stigmatized, people are starting to question whether or not it interferes with sobriety. There’s no clear answer to this. However, the same is true for most substances. If you’re recovering from cocaine use, can you still safely drink? If you’re recovering from opiate use, should you take Prozac? These questions are complicated, and the answers may vary from person to person. During rehab and recovery, you’ll likely start to define where the line is for you.

As you think about your personal history of substance use, you’ll start to distinguish between healthy and problematic behaviors. Are there ways you’ve used substances in the past that felt sustainable? In the process of recovery, are you still capable of approaching medication in that way? If you can incorporate CBD into a genuinely healthy lifestyle, it has many benefits. However, if you’re concerned about using it unsustainably, it may not be worth the risk.

With or without the aid of CBD, there are many ways to begin recovery. Learn more about private rehab programs here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using CBD in Recovery

Is it possible to use CBD while maintaining sobriety?

The definition of sobriety varies according to different recovery philosophies. Some people choose total abstinence from all psychoactive substances, including CBD. Others may take a harm reduction approach, considering the potential benefits of CBD for managing symptoms. It’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare team and determine what aligns with your recovery goals and personal definition of sobriety. Remember, recovery is a journey of self-discovery and finding the balance that works for you.

Are there risks associated with using CBD in recovery?

While CBD is not believed to be habit-forming, it’s still a cannabinoid and may contain trace amounts of THC. It’s essential to discuss CBD use with your treatment providers, as it may interact with other medications. Honesty with yourself, your support network, and healthcare providers is crucial in monitoring your CBD use and recognizing any warning signs of misuse or overuse.

Can CBD help with cravings and withdrawal symptoms during recovery?

CBD shows promise for alleviating addiction-related symptoms, including cravings and withdrawal, due to its impact on cannabinoid receptors in the brain. It’s shown positive effects in helping people recover from opioid, cocaine, and methamphetamine use. While CBD isn’t a standalone solution, it may be worth exploring as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if CBD is a suitable option for you.

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Finding the Right Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders

You are more than your diagnosis. That’s true no matter what, whether you have a substance use disorder or cancer. And the goal of rehab isn’t just to treat your illness; it’s to help you heal every aspect of yourself. For some clients, that means finding a treatment program that specializes in co-occurring disorders.

Having a co-occurring disorder, or a dual diagnosis, just means that you’ve been diagnosed with more than one condition. In the context of rehab, the term is generally used for clients with multiple mental health concerns. For example, you may have a substance use disorder as well as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or schizophrenia. This is not an exhaustive list. Approximately 50% of people with substance use disorders have dual diagnoses.1

It’s technically true that anyone with more than one condition has a dual diagnosis. For example, a client might have both depression and diabetes. However, when a rehab facility offers a dual diagnosis treatment program, it’s safe to assume that they’re referring to conditions that relate to mental health. Substance use disorders and other mental health conditions generally have complex, multifaceted relationships. As such, people with multiple diagnoses can benefit from specialized forms of treatment.

Risk Factors for Co-Occurring Disorders

Substance use disorders are often related to certain mental health diagnoses.2 It’s important to remember that every person’s experience is unique, and these correlations aren’t necessarily causative. However, there are some well-documented risk factors that can make someone more likely to experience these co-occurring conditions.

Mental Health Concerns Can Make Substance Misuse More Likely

Mental health conditions, including substance use disorders, tend to run in families. Experts believe this is due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Studies have found that “as much as half of a person’s risk of becoming addicted to nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs depends on his or her genetic makeup.”3 However, life experiences also play a major role. Your diet, stress levels, physical activity, and any history of trauma can also contribute to substance misuse. According to experts, “that old saying ‘nature or nurture’ might be better phrased ‘nature and nurture’ because research shows that a person’s health is the result of dynamic interactions between genes and the environment.” Environmental conditions can also play a role in the development of mental illness.4

Research has clearly linked substance use disorders with mental health. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “People with mental illness are more likely to experience a substance use disorder5 than those not affected by a mental illness.” However, it’s not simply the case that mental health diagnoses can cause substance misuse. The reverse can also be true.

The Impact of Substance Use Disorders on Mental Health

Substance misuse changes brain chemistry. Active substance use has a short-term impact on a person’s mental and emotional state, but it doesn’t end there. Long-term drug use can also “lead to both short- and long-term changes in the brain,6 which can lead to mental health issues.” This can contribute to the development, or progression, of mental health conditions.

It’s not unusual for people to develop substance use disorders in response to mental or physical pain.7 And research has found that “people with a mental disorder, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may use drugs or alcohol as a form of self-medication. However, although some drugs may temporarily help with some symptoms of mental disorders, they may make the symptoms worse over time. Additionally, brain changes in people with mental disorders may enhance the rewarding effects of substances, making it more likely they will continue to use the substance.”

This has a synergistic effect: emotional pain leads to substance misuse, which in turn increases emotional pain. As a result, many people find themselves caught in a cycle of unsustainable behavior, in which their attempts to self-soothe only amplify their distress.

Substance misuse, like many other mental health conditions, can become an all-consuming experience if it’s left untreated. Ultimately, it affects your mental health, your behavior, your relationships, and every other aspect of your life. In the midst of this crisis state, it can be difficult to even imagine life without these coping mechanisms. And this entire cycle is often accelerated for those with co-occurring disorders.

Breaking the Cycle

When you have a mental health diagnosis—whether or not it’s been officially diagnosed—it can be a struggle to find healthy coping mechanisms. Illicit substances can temporarily relieve the symptoms of mental illness, and unfortunately, they can also be more readily available than more appropriate prescription medications.

Many people find it difficult to admit that they have a problem, either with substance misuse or mental health in general. If you’re not ready to seek help, it’s unlikely that you’ll receive adequate medical care. However, you may be able to access illicit substances in a less formal way, without consulting a medical provider. Unfortunately, this accessibility is only possible due to a lack of expert oversight. Self-medicating can only get you so far.

Even with the best of intentions—for example, the conscious goal of self-medicating—substance misuse can impair your judgment. This makes it difficult to know whether your behavior has become problematic. “When an individual develops a mental illness, associated changes in brain activity may increase the vulnerability for problematic use of substances8 by enhancing their rewarding effects, reducing awareness of their negative effects, or alleviating the unpleasant symptoms of the mental disorder or the side effects of the medication used to treat it.”

futures recovery pool
You can receive professional help for co-occurring disorders at rehabs that offer these types of treatment programs, such as Futures Recovery Healthcare in Florida.

Substance Use Disorders and Trauma

Regardless of your reasons for substance misuse, unhealthy behaviors can cause further trauma. In fact, some clients report developing PTSD in response to their substance use. This can even be true for people who never experienced severe trauma before developing a substance use disorder.

Victoria Abadi, Addiction Therapist, writes, ” When a person is using a substance or behaviour addictively they often experience more trauma.9 This trauma may be caused by putting themselves in dangerous situations, behaving in a way that doesn’t reflect their moral compass, or feeling psychologically unstable due to the cocktail of chemicals and experiences.”

In addition, substance misuse often hurts relationships, including those with friends, family, and even work colleagues. If your relationships are damaged as a result of your behavior, you may experience the trauma of losing touch with a person you care about or rely on. This becomes a vicious cycle, and gives many people more reasons to continue engaging in unhealthy behavior.

As painful as this pattern can be, there is always hope for healing. Many people struggle with trauma as the cause or result of substance misuse. And many medical providers have experience in helping clients move forward. Alex Spritzer, Family Addiction and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at The Hope House Scottsdale, is one such therapist:

“I believe that at the heart of many addictions is a trauma base. From that trauma base, there’s other psychiatric symptoms present. That might include anxiety, insomnia, a racing mind, or mood swings–these are often psychiatric symptoms people look to abate when they’re using substances. In the dual diagnosis process, figuring out the reasons why people use [substances] is very important.”

The Hope House Scottsdale
The Hope House Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Finding the Right Type of Treatment for You

By their very nature, dual diagnoses are highly complex10 and unique to every client. And it can be difficult to “disentangle [their] overlapping symptoms.” For that reason, personalized treatment can be very helpful for people healing from multiple conditions.

Signs and Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders

Prior to rehab, many people aren’t even aware that they have co-occurring mental health conditions. It can be especially complicated to find out whether this applies to you, because the symptoms of some mental health concerns can be caused by “[physical] illness, medications, or substance abuse.”11 However, certain warning signs may indicate the presence of multiple mental health concerns.

The team at White River Manor notes that “those living with co-occurring disorders will find daily functioning difficult, if not impossible. While symptoms are often complex and can vary in severity, there are some common signs of dual diagnosis. According to their treatment team, these include

  • Social withdrawal: isolating from friends, family, and those who offer support
  • Sudden changes in behaviour (including engaging in risky or violent behaviours)
  • Changes in appetite and sleep patterns (including insomnia or excessive sleep)
  • Inability to concentrate and confused thinking
  • Intense or prolonged feelings of despair, hopelessness, and worthlessness
  • Anxiety issues that can only be relieved by certain behaviours or rituals
  • Difficulty staying in employment or meeting other responsibilities
  • Trouble maintaining relationships because of erratic behaviour or mood swings
  • Dramatic shifts in moods or energy levels and an inability to control emotions
  • Use of drugs and alcohol as coping mechanisms for any of the above, despite the dangers.”

If these symptoms describe your experience, you may want to consider a rehab program that specializes in co-occurring disorder treatment. Before choosing one facility over another, talk to the admissions team to learn more about what types of treatment they offer.

Questions to Ask Your Provider About Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

Because treatment of co-occurring disorders is so individualized, it’s important that you find a clinical team that can support you, specifically. Ideally, your clinical team will have experience treating not only substance use disorders, but every diagnosis that applies to you. For example, a rehab facility that specializes in treating clinical depression may or may not have the right resources for a client with ADHD. To find the right program, you may have to take an active role in advocating for yourself during the admissions process. Here are some questions you can ask the admissions team at a rehab center to see whether they can provide the support you need:

  • How do you evaluate clients for dual diagnoses?
  • If I complete detox at your facility, will I be reevaluated for co-occurring disorders before beginning inpatient treatment?
  • Which specific mental health concerns do you treat most often?
  • Which mental health diagnoses does your staff specialize in treating?
  • What experiences does your team have in treating my specific diagnoses?
  • What types of therapy do you offer for various co-occurring disorders?
  • Do you create individualized treatment plans for each client? If so, how involved is the client in co-designing their treatment plan?
  • For clients with dual diagnoses, how do you integrate different types of therapy to address each person’s unique needs?
  • Do you prescribe psychiatric medication for clients with dual diagnoses?
  • How do you manage medications for clients detoxing from substance misuse?
  • How do you help clients with co-occurring disorders plan for ongoing mental health care after residential rehab?

Diagnosing Co-Occurring Disorders

The first step in healing, as always, is to go through a thorough evaluation process to determine the best course of treatment. For people with multiple mental health concerns, this process can be complex.

Remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for healing. Although you may consult with your medical team before you arrive at rehab, your treatment plan will likely change over time. This is especially true for people who undergo medical detox before starting a rehab program. Once you complete detox and stabilize your physical health, your emotional state may change significantly, making reevaluation necessary.

Even if it takes time to find your diagnosis (or diagnoses), it’s important that you stay focused on the present moment, and fully committed to the process of healing. Rehab can be challenging. It’s normal to get tired, or to feel daunted by the task at hand. However, your own dedication to personal growth is absolutely vital. Experts agree that “the patient’s acceptance of a problem and his or her willingness to engage in treatment are important predictors of clinical outcomes.”12

Effective Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders

In the right rehab program, your commitment to healing will be met by a similar commitment from your treatment providers. Because dual diagnosis treatment requires a multifaceted approach, it’s important to work with a team that can address every aspect of your health.

Co-Occurring Disorders Benefit from Holistic Healing

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, for example, providers stay in close communication with each other about each patient’s progress:

“The integration of patient care — and many other supportive services — can greatly improve long-term patient outcomes. Integrated care is the process of coordinating the efforts of each member of a patient’s care team to enhance individual and systemic outcomes. All members of a patient’s care team collaborate on a regular basis to share information about a patient with the sole purpose of ensuring that health goals are being met, identifying any new conditions or needs, and adding therapies deemed important.”

In many cases, the symptoms of substance use disorders can be easy to identify. However, the symptoms of co-occurring conditions can be much more complex. This can make it harder to define what healing means for you. If you have bipolar disorder, for example, it’s unlikely that the condition will ever simply disappear. However, there’s always hope. During rehab, you can learn to manage your symptoms in a healthy and sustainable way.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Current research holds that many mental health conditions are, at least in part, caused by biological factors. For example, studies have found that bipolar disorder may be the result of a neurochemical imbalance.13 Other mental health conditions, such as PTSD, are influenced by life experiences and environmental conditions.14 There is still much research to be done about the etiology of these diagnoses.

Whatever the cause, many mental health concerns are chronic conditions.15 It’s possible to manage them using therapy and medication, but it’s counterproductive to assume that someday all your symptoms will simply disappear without ongoing medical treatment. If you’re feeling daunted by this idea, compare your diagnosis to a physical illness. It’s perfectly appropriate for a person with a heart condition to take prescribed medication every day. Ongoing mental health treatment is equally important, and in many cases, equally accessible.

People with any mental health diagnosis can benefit from learning healthy coping mechanisms. If you also have a substance use disorder, those same coping mechanisms can help you manage cravings and keep your physical health in order. During rehab, you’ll learn these skills. After residential treatment, you’ll start putting them into practice in more complex situations.

As you prepare for life after rehab, you’ll not only hone your coping skills; you’ll also start building a support network that can help keep you on track. Dr. Monika Kolodziej, Program Director at McLean Fernside, explains:

“We know that people must learn skills to help them operate in the world and deal with depression, deal with anxiety, as they are also staying away from substances. And we know from studies that groups are an important vehicle.”

You Are More Than Your Diagnosis

It’s extremely important to find a diagnosis that accurately describes your symptoms. Doing this empowers you to get the help you need, which may include talk therapy, prescription medications, support groups, and appropriate health insurance. However, you are not your illness. You are a whole person, with needs and goals and values that transcend any difficulties you may face.

As you pursue dual diagnosis treatment, remember that rehab is not the end goal of healing. Instead, it is the first chapter of a new story. By learning more about your own emotional experience, you’ll be able to move forward in a healthier and more joyful way.

If you have, or believe you may have, a dual diagnosis, learn more about rehab centers that treat co-occurring disorders here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

What are co-occurring disorders?

Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnoses, refer to the presence of multiple mental health conditions. In the context of rehab, it commonly refers to patients with substance use disorders and other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or schizophrenia.

What are the risk factors for co-occurring disorders?

Co-occurring disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Mental health conditions, including substance use disorders, tend to run in families. Life experiences, diet, stress levels, physical activity, and history of trauma can also contribute to substance abuse and the development of mental illness.

How can I manage my co-occurring disorder after completing residential rehab?

Managing a co-occurring disorder requires ongoing care and support. It’s important to continue therapy, take prescribed medications as directed, and develop healthy coping skills. Building a support network and participating in support groups can also help in maintaining recovery. Remember that co-occurring disorders are chronic conditions, but with the right treatment and self-care, you can lead a fulfilling life beyond rehab.
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12-Step vs. Non-12-Step Recovery: Which Is Best for You?

Rehab is designed to provide structure as you begin the process of recovery. There are countless ways to heal, and it’s important to choose a framework that meets your specific needs. While many people benefit from 12-Step rehab programs, others prefer a more holistic approach to addiction treatment.

Recent research shows that 12-Step programs have a hugely positive impact,1 and may even be “the most effective path to abstinence.” However, there is some question as to why this is true. For example, 12-Step programs offer social support,2 which is essential during recovery, but is not unique to this philosophy. At most inpatient rehab programs, you’ll be able to build community with or without following the 12 Steps.

It’s also important to note that spirituality is a component of every 12-Step program. If you’re not interested in faith-based recovery, these groups may not be right for you. Various rehab facilities offer different 12-Step groups, such as A.A. and N.A., as well as non-12-Step programs. Before choosing which residential rehab you’ll attend, it’s best to learn as much as you can about the available options.

What Is 12-Step Recovery?

Alcoholics Anonymous is the best-known 12-Step program.3 A.A. is “an international fellowship of men and women who have had a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical, and available almost everywhere. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem.”

Members of A.A. attend group meetings,4 most of which have a similar format: initial announcements are followed by a reading of the 12 Steps and the 12 Traditions. Then a member will share their story. This may be followed by a group conversation, or more structured time for other members to describe their experiences. This structure is simple but effective. As one member writes, “I always feel a little better after it’s over.”

Many 12-Step groups follow similar formats, such as Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, Marijuana Anonymous, and Al-Anon, which is intended for people who love someone who struggles with substance misuse. These groups define the 12 Steps slightly differently, but all share a similar philosophy.

The 12 Steps

The 12 Steps are a list of actions that group members undertake during the process of recovery. In this process, members normally begin by admitting they have a problem. Then, you’ll connect to a higher power, sometimes called “God as we understand him.”5 Although 12-Step groups are historically rooted in Christianity, they welcome people of all faiths, including people who don’t ascribe to a specific religion. Nevertheless, the spiritual aspect of this philosophy isn’t right for everyone.

In the process of connecting with a higher power, members then make “a searching and fearless moral inventory”6 of themselves and their lives. This ruthless honesty lays the groundwork for the great changes that come with recovery. By admitting your struggles to yourself, to another person, and to your version of a spiritual source, you may come to a new understanding of your emotional experience.

In Step 9, members seek to make amends7 to any people they may have hurt, “except when to do so would injure them or others.” Through this process, members begin to consider the effects their actions have on their communities. There is a difference between intent and impact. As you learn more about yourself, you’ll also learn how to meet your needs in a healthy way, while participating in a supportive community.

One goal of the 12 Steps is to achieve a spiritual awakening. Step 12 refers to this directly: “Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps,8 we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” Members are encouraged to meditate, pray, and cultivate an ongoing spiritual practice.

In these groups, you’ll be encouraged to “work the steps” throughout the process of recovery. As you encounter new challenges, you may return to the steps again and again, not always in numerical order. In stressful times, these strategies can help you focus on your goals, avoid relapse, and make the healthiest choices available. The 12 Steps are more than a checklist; they can become a way of life. However, the steps themselves are just one component of recovery. The social aspect of 12-Step groups is also an essential part of the process.

Social Support in 12-Step Programs

Experts agree that social support—or a lack thereof—has an extremely significant impact on people with substance use disorders.9 Some researchers have even postulated that “opioid addiction serves as a substitute for social attachment.” In one study, a subgroup of substance users exhibited “severe negative affect and intense craving” when exposed to perceived social rejection.

This evidence suggests that without community, people in recovery may be especially vulnerable to cravings. Whether or not those cravings lead to relapse, one thing is clear: strong interpersonal relationships are an important part of healing. Because 12-Step groups include a built-in community of people on a similar journey, they may help members get the support they need. Programs like A.A. even encourage members to become sponsors,10 actively supporting people at earlier points in the healing process.

In most residential rehabs, you’ll be in a cohort of people who share some of your life experiences. If your program is based on the 12 Steps, you’ll have even more structured opportunities to give and receive peer-to-peer support. For example, the program at Genesis House is firmly rooted in this philosophy. They treat substance misuse as “a three-fold disease: spiritual, physical, and emotional.” Residents are introduced to the 12 Steps as soon as they arrive. They continue to engage with the steps in individual therapy, and in the evenings they “are transported to local AA/NA meetings…where they will network with others in recovery and learn more about how to stay sober.”

What Is Non-12-Step Recovery?

Although 12-Step groups are extremely valuable for some, they’re not the only way to get community support. One study found that “social networks that support recovery lead to enhanced treatment outcomes and sobriety11 regardless if this support stems from family, peer groups, or 12-Step programs.”

Non-12-Step programs are ideal for people who don’t ascribe to a spiritual practice, or those who simply want a different kind of structure. There are countless approaches to recovery from substance misuse, such as evidence-based treatment, individualized treatment, and experiential therapy. And even without faith in a higher power, it’s possible to heal in a holistic way.

For example, The Holistic Sanctuary in Baja California is a rehab facility with a “natural holistic healing program.” Clients do yoga, receive daily massages, and eat an organic diet. This approach “involves healing the patient’s spiritual health through meditation, catering to their physical health through exercise, and improving their psychological wellbeing through counseling.”

There are as many ways to heal as there are people with substance use disorders. Many clients benefit from a combination approach, attending 12-Step groups while also participating in different therapeutic modalities.

In the same way that medicines and psychotherapy can go together, AA and 12-Step can go together with in-depth psychotherapy and medications when indicated.

– Dr. Thomas Gazda, Medical Doctor, Soberman’s Estate

Finding the Right Approach to Treatment

If you’re not sure whether 12-Step treatment is the right fit, you can talk to the admissions team at a rehab center to learn more. These questions may help you find out whether a program aligns with your specific goals for recovery:

  • In this program, is attendance of 12-Step groups mandatory?
  • How much time will I spend in individual therapy, compared to time spent in groups?
  • Do all your one-on-one therapists use the 12 Steps as a framework for recovery?
  • Will I be able to choose my own therapist?
  • Do your 12-Step groups include a sponsorship program?
  • In your philosophy, what does it mean for clients to connect with a higher power?
  • Does your program welcome people of all faiths?
  • Do you connect alumni with local support groups and/or 12-Step meetings after they complete inpatient rehab?

If at all possible, it’s best to know the answers to these questions before you begin residential treatment. The more information you have, the better you can plan for life during and after rehab.

Attending 12-Step Groups After Rehab

​​By design, 12-Step programs are extremely accessible. They’re free, they take place internationally, and they’re open to people at every stage of recovery. A.A., in particular, offers both open and closed meetings.12 Open meetings are available to anyone, including friends and loved ones of alcoholics, who do not have substance use disorders themselves. Closed meetings are only open to people who have substance use disorders, or those who believe that they might and want to learn more.

This accessibility can be especially important for people who have recently completed rehab. When you first graduate from a residential program, you may be in a vulnerable emotional state. Rehab is only the first chapter of a much longer healing process. When you arrive home afterward, you’ll begin establishing new routines, returning to some parts of your life, and letting go of others. Attending group meetings can help you stay grounded while encouraging you to form new relationships with people who live nearby.

A Step in the Right Direction

Whether or not 12-Step recovery is right for you, there’s a great deal to learn from this philosophy. For example, the process of healing from substance misuse is not a solitary one. There are certain aspects of recovery that must be your responsibility, but no one lives in a vacuum. By connecting with the people around you and finding peers who have survived similar struggles, you can learn a great deal about what it means to live a healthy life.

Like any other healing process, the 12 Steps can be a-linear. As you begin recovery, be patient with yourself. There are some lessons you may have to learn more than once, in new contexts or at different times of your life. That type of repetition is normal and even healthy. As you continue to change and grow, it can be helpful to ground yourself with a list of goals or strategies that you’d like to focus on throughout recovery. There may be 12 of them, or 2, or 37. The important thing is to find a way of healing that aligns with your unique values.

To continue exploring various treatment philosophies, you can learn more about rehabs that offer 12-Step programs and non-12-Step treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About 12-Step vs. Non-12-Step Rehab

What’s the difference between 12-Step and non-12-Step rehab programs?

12-Step rehab programs, like Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), follow a structured framework involving admitting a problem, connecting to a higher power, making amends, and achieving a spiritual awakening. Non-12-Step programs offer alternative approaches to recovery, focusing on evidence-based treatments, holistic healing, and individualized therapy.

Are 12-Step groups mandatory in all rehab programs?

The attendance of 12-Step groups varies at different rehabs. Some programs make it mandatory, while others offer a choice between 12-Step and non-12-Step options. It’s important to inquire with the rehab you’re considering about their specific approach to ensure it aligns with your preferences and goals for recovery.

Can non-religious people participate in 12-Step programs?

Yes, 12-Step programs welcome people of all faiths and those who don’t ascribe to a specific religion. While spirituality is a component, it’s not limited to a particular faith. These programs encourage participants to connect with a higher power as they understand it, which can be interpreted in a way that aligns with personal beliefs or values.