Category: Understanding Needs

Posted on

23 Essential Facts About Alcohol Addiction

It can be hard to trust what you hear about alcohol addiction. And when you’re planning for recovery, you need to know exactly what you’re facing. These alcohol facts can help you make important decisions about treatment. 

1. Alcohol Addiction Is a Chronic Disease

Alcohol addiction is a chronic disease1 with serious, long-term health effects. This condition is also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD) or alcoholism. AUD is highly treatable and can go into long-term remission.

2. Alcohol Use Disorder Can Affect Anyone

Anyone can develop AUD, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and so on. Because alcohol is socially acceptable in most parts of the world, it can be hard to tell when your drinking gets out of hand. 

3. Alcohol Addiction Affects Nearly 30 Million People

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) tracks alcohol facts and statistics in the U.S. According to their most recent data, 28.6 million adults had alcohol use disorder2 in 2021. That’s 11.3% of everyone in the country aged 18 or older. 

4. Your Genetics, Environment, and Other Factors Can Lead to Alcohol Addiction

Many factors can make you vulnerable to alcohol addiction.3 For example, alcohol addiction tends to run in families. On the surface, that implies AUD is genetic. But this could also be an environmental issue, because childhood trauma increases your risk of addiction. Studies show that mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression can also play a role. 

5. Long-Term Alcohol Abuse Has Serious Health Impacts

Over time, excessive drinking can cause severe physical health problems:4

  • Stroke
  • High blood pressure
  • Liver problems
  • Weakened immune system
  • Pancreatitis
  • Cancer

Alcohol abuse also increases your risk of developing mental health problems.5

6. Alcohol Addiction Gets Worse Over Time

For most people, alcohol use disorder is progressive.6 In other words, it gets worse over time. Without proper treatment, your alcohol addiction will likely get more severe. 

7. Alcohol Withdrawal Can Be Physically Dangerous

When you first quit drinking, you may develop some or all of the following alcohol withdrawal symptoms:7

  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep problems
  • Headache
  • Digestive issues
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Delirium tremens

Without proper treatment, withdrawing from alcohol can be fatal. When you first enter recovery for AUD, it’s extremely important to get the medical care you need.

8. There Are Many Treatments for Alcohol Addiction

There are countless ways to heal from addiction. Rehab for alcohol addiction can include a combination of medical treatments, talk therapy, support groups, and other activities. Different programs offer various types of therapy. Some even develop individualized care plans for each client.

9. Alcohol Addiction Often Co-Occurs With Other Mental Health Disorders

Alcohol addiction commonly co-occurs with other mental health issues. People with AUD have higher rates of depression,8 anxiety, PTSD, and other substance use disorders. If you’re healing from multiple conditions at once, you will likely need specialized treatment.

10. Alcohol Use Disorder Has a High Relapse Rate

Relapse is a common part of alcohol addiction recovery. In one study, at least 60% of people with AUD relapsed9 within the first year of recovery. Certain risk factors — like clinical depression — make relapse more likely. On the other hand, having a strong support network reduces your risk of relapse.10 That could include a therapist, support groups, family, and trusted friends. Building out your support system is an essential part of healing. You can start this process during rehab by making a specific plan for aftercare.

11. Alcohol Addiction Affects Relationships

Alcohol abuse can profoundly affect your closest relationships, in every stage of addiction and recovery. While untreated AUD can severely impact whole families,11 treatment has the opposite effect. Experts say it’s impossible to separate alcohol addiction from family dynamics. That’s why many rehabs offer family therapy as a central part of treatment.

12. Alcohol Addiction Can Impact Cognitive Function

Drinking alcohol, and especially alcohol abuse, can interfere with brain function.12 Specifically, it interferes with memory, motor function, and judgment. These effects are worse for teenagers and for people with chronic, long-term addiction. 

13. Early Intervention Can Make a Huge Difference

Early intervention and treatment for alcohol addiction can significantly improve the chances of successful recovery.

14. Social Support Can Help You Recover

Social support is essential during recovery13 from alcohol addiction. A wealth of data shows that people with stronger relationships recover more quickly and completely. Your support network could include family, friends, colleagues, your care team, and members of a support group. Given the high success rate of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), it might be a good place to start building your community.

15. Alcohol Addiction Is a Diagnosable Medical Condition

Despite the stigma surrounding addiction, healthcare professionals agree that AUD is a serious medical issue. The American Psychiatric Association (APA), for example, explains that people with alcohol addiction “have lost reliable control of their alcohol use.14 It doesn’t matter what kind of alcohol someone drinks or even how much: Alcohol-dependent people are often unable to stop drinking once they start.” If you have a diagnosis of AUD, you’ll probably need professional treatment to recover. 

16. Excessive Drinking Can Weaken Your Immune System

Heavy drinking can interfere with immune function.15 As a result, chronic alcohol abuse increases your risk of pneumonia, respiratory problems, liver disease, and certain types of cancer. People with AUD have a higher rate of complications after surgery and may heal from injuries more slowly.

17. Alcohol Addiction Harms Marginalized Communities

Anyone can abuse alcohol. However, some data shows that AUD disproportionally affects marginalized communities. For example, having less education and lower socioeconomic status greatly increases your risk of alcohol addiction.16 This is true regardless of genetics or family history. Other studies report that race also plays a role in AUD,17 and that Black communities are at greater risk. 

18. Binge Drinking May Increase Your Risk of Addiction

Recent studies show a link between binge drinking and alcohol addiction.18 We still need more information about how they relate. It could be true that binge drinking raises your risk of developing an addiction in the future. On the other hand, some say that binge drinking itself is a sign of addiction. If that’s the case, the act itself wouldn’t increase your risk of AUD. But either way, it can still qualify as alcohol abuse. If you binge drink regularly, you might consider getting treatment for alcohol addiction.

19. Relapse Is Not Failure

Relapse is a common part of recovery from alcohol addiction. It is not a sign of failure. When you think of AUD as a disease, it’s easier to make sense of this pattern. The National Institute of Health (NIH) compares addiction to other chronic conditions,19 like asthma and high blood pressure: “Relapse is common and similar across these illnesses. Therefore, substance use disorders should be treated like any other chronic illness. Relapse serves as a sign for resumed, modified, or new treatment.”

20. Underage Drinking Can Lead to Alcohol Addiction

Drinking as a teenager20 increases your risk of developing AUD as an adult. One study found that people who drank alcohol before age 15 were 3.5 times more likely to abuse alcohol. Underage drinking can also change or interfere with the way your brain develops. For teenagers with alcohol addiction, family therapy is usually an important part of treatment.

21. Integrated Treatment Can Help

If you have a mental health diagnosis in addition to AUD, it’s called dual diagnosis. Recovering from co-occurring disorders can be complex. Studies show that it’s most effective to treat mental health issues and addiction21 at the same time. By integrating different types of therapy, you can address the root cause of both issues simultaneously. Many residential rehabs use this holistic approach to treatment.

22. Chronic Alcohol Abuse Can Cause Brain Damage

Long-term alcohol addiction can lead to brain damage.22 This can occur in several different ways:

  • Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome: This condition is a rare type of dementia. It affects people who drink so heavily, for such a long time, that they develop severe vitamin B-1 deficiencies. Symptoms include confusion, memory issues, poor judgment, hallucinations, and cognitive decline.
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Alcohol increases your risk of TBI, either due to accidents or aggressive behavior. Up to 81% of people with TBIs are intoxicated when they first sustain their injuries.
  • Alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD):23 While ARBD mimics dementia, it has some key differences. For one thing, it usually doesn’t worse over time. This condition usually affects people in their 40s or 50s. With proper treatment, many patients can completely recover.

23. Different People Need Different Types of Treatment

There are many factors to consider when you’re planning recovery. For example, do you need to detox from alcohol before starting rehab? While you’re in treatment, will you need ongoing medical care? Are you interested in attending a faith-based program that follows the 12 Steps? There’s no right or wrong way to approach treatment, but it’s important to find a center that can meet your unique needs. 

Compare rehabs that treat alcohol addiction to find the right program for you.

Posted on

What Is Wellbriety?

Wellbriety is just what it sounds like — wellness and sobriety. The Wellbriety Movement supports Indigenous people in the process of addiction recovery. This holistic approach supports clients’ physical, mental, and spiritual healing.

Origins of the Wellbriety Movement

Don Coyhis, Mohican nation, founded the Wellbriety Movement in 1988.1 He began by teaching people the spiritual methods that helped him heal from alcohol addiction. Over time, these practices would help his daughter heal from meth addiction and grow into a nationwide movement empowering Indigenous communities.

How Is Wellbriety Different From Traditional Programs?

Wellbriety stands out from other recovery programs in several ways. This approach to recovery is open to Indigenous people nationwide. You can also learn from the movement’s published resources. 

These teachings are available through White Bison, a nonprofit organization Don Coyhis founded in the 1980s. Based in Colorado Springs, White Bison offers free in-person and online meetings. According to their website, this organization is “dedicated to creating and sustaining a grassroots Wellbriety Movement – providing culturally-based healing to the next seven generations of Indigenous People.” 

Coyhis’ philosophy marries several different traditions. For example, members of the Wellbriety Movement follow the Medicine Wheel 12 Steps.2 This framework combines Indigenous spiritual beliefs with the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous.

White Bison and the Wellbriety Movement address an urgent need. While drug and alcohol addiction, trauma, and mental health issues can affect anyone, they’re especially prevalent in Indigenous communities. The Red Road, another nonprofit supporting Native communities, notes the scope of this problem: “Despite only representing 2% of the U.S. population, Native Americans have the highest rates of alcohol,3 marijuana, cocaine, and hallucinogen use disorders and the second highest methamphetamine abuse rates.”

Cultural Values

Wellbriety encourages people to heal from addictions by committing to shared cultural values. Many of White Bison’s principles4 direct communities to support each other. For example, they believe that “healing will take place through the application of cultural and spiritual knowledge.” This and other principles inform their holistic approach. In recovery, members come into alignment with themselves, their communities, and the natural world. 

Spiritual Focus

Spirituality is central to the Wellbriety Movement. Members believe in a Supreme Being and follow the teachings of community leaders. Many Wellbriety practices honor the Sacred Hoop, which holds great spiritual significance. In 1995, Indigenous Elders met in a sweat lodge and formed it out of a sapling. Since that time, the Sacred Hoop has traveled more than 200,000 miles around the U.S., connecting White Bison leaders with Indigenous communities.

Physical and Mental Health

Wellbriety encompasses both physical and mental health. Certain activities address both these goals at the same time. For instance, several studies show that drumming has powerful physical and emotional benefits.5 Partly for that reason, Wellbriety meetings often include drum circles.6 This practice also has spiritual meaning.

Wellbriety and the 4 Laws of Change 

Among other principles, the Wellbriety Movement follows 4 laws of change.7 Coyhis received these laws from an Elder in the 1980s. Today, they are pillars of White Bison’s work. 

1. Change Is From Within

This law, Coyhis explains, “means that we must have an internal desire to make changes in our lives.” Only the person with an addiction can commit to recovery. That commitment can’t come from a loved one, or even from your whole community. But when you cultivate an inner desire to heal, you can accomplish remarkable things.

2. In Order for Development To Occur It Must Be Preceded by a Vision

Members of the Wellbriety Movement begin by imagining what their lives would be like without substance abuse. As Coyhis puts it, “What would our lives, our community, or our nation look like if it were working in a good way?” This question invites people to start dreaming about a better future. Once you have a clear vision of your best possible life, you can start bringing it into reality. 

3. A Great Learning Must Take Place

This law frames the healing process as a communal effort. Coyhis says that recovery “must include the individual, the family, the community, and the nation acting as an integrated whole.” In most addiction treatment programs, holistic recovery combines the different aspects of the self. Wellbriety takes this a step further, seeking to integrate personal wellness with communal growth. 

4. You Must Create a Healing Forest

When it comes to addiction and mental health recovery, your environment is essential. Members of the Wellbriety Movement understand this through the metaphor of the healing forest:8

Imagine a forest of damaged, dying trees. The sickness is in the air, the soil, and the water supply. It’s all around them. You notice one tree that seems especially unwell. You dig it up, move it, and plant it in rich soil. You give it water and sunlight and plant food, and it starts to thrive. When it’s ready, you bring it back to the original forest and replant it. Does that one tree heal the rest of the forest? No, of course not. Back in an unsupportive environment, it just gets sick again. 

The forest is a metaphor for the way addiction, poverty, and intergenerational trauma affect Indigenous communities. White Bison teaches that while one person going to rehab or attending therapy can help, it’s not enough. Entire groups of people have to commit to recovering together, supporting each other throughout a complex healing process.

Find Additional Resources and Support for Addiction Recovery

White Bison supports Indigenous communities9 around the country. The nonprofit also trains and certifies residential centers in Indigenous treatment methods. If the Wellbriety Movement resonates with you, look for a rehab that offers this approach to recovery.

Start your healing journey in a rehab that honors your culture.

Posted on

How Long Does Alcohol Poisoning Last? Symptoms, Timeline & Treatment

When you drink more than your body can handle, you might start wondering, “How long does alcohol poisoning last?” The short answer is, it’s different for everyone. But a few factors can make it easier or harder to get through alcohol poisoning. Learn what to expect, and how to know when you need medical attention. 

What Is Alcohol Poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning is another term for alcohol overdose.1 At first, it can look or feel like a person is just drunk and relaxed. But the signs of overdose can sneak up on you, with very serious consequences. 

When someone has too much to drink, they may start slurring their words or vomiting. Often, alcohol poisoning makes you lose consciousness. If you see someone develop these symptoms while drinking, they may need medical attention. 

Alcohol overdose occurs when a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC) gets too high. While your BAC is related to the amount you drink, it’s not identical. Your height, weight, alcohol tolerance, and hydration levels can all affect how quickly you get drunk. 

If your BAC gets high enough, alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a blood alcohol level of 0.31% carries a “significant risk of death in most drinkers due to suppression of vital life functions.” 

For example, choking is one of the greatest dangers of alcohol poisoning. Overdose can make you lose consciousness and vomit, possibly at the same time. It also inhibits your gag reflex. If you start to vomit in your sleep, you risk asphyxiation. This experience can cause permanent brain damage, and it can be fatal.

Duration of Alcohol Poisoning Symptoms

Several factors can affect how long alcohol stays in your system. According to the California Department of Beverage Control, these aspects of health influence the way your body processes alcohol:2

  • Gender
  • BMI
  • Prescription medications
  • Altitude
  • Energy levels
  • How recently you ate
  • How much you drink
  • Which types of alcohol you drink
  • How quickly you drink

On average, your liver processes the equivalent of 1 standard drink an hour. But that’s just an estimate. And there’s a chance your symptoms will get worse before they get better. That’s because it takes time for alcohol to take effect. If you notice symptoms while you’re still drinking, they may intensify as your body processes the rest of the alcohol you consumed.

Short-Term Effects of Alcohol Poisoning

Alcohol is considered a drug because it has an impact on the way your body functions. Specifically, alcohol depresses your central nervous system.3 That means it can slow down breathing and other essential involuntary activities.

Like any other type of drug overdose, alcohol poisoning has dangerous short-term effects:4

  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Clammy skin
  • Trouble breathing
  • Low heart rate
  • Low body temperature
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Lack of motor control, including the gag reflex
  • Seizures

Alcohol is a diuretic,5 meaning it affects the way your body processes water. Excessive drinking can cause dehydration, which has additional symptoms:

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Delerium

Seeking Medical Attention for Alcohol Poisoning

If you or someone near you is showing signs of alcohol overdose, call 911 immediately.

There are many popular misconceptions about alcohol overdose.6 But the NIAAA urges people to trust medical experts instead of trying folk remedies: 

“Do not wait for the person to have all the symptoms, and be aware that a person who has passed out can die. Don’t play doctor—cold showers, hot coffee, and walking do not reverse the effects of alcohol overdose and could actually make things worse.”

When first responders arrive, they’ll probably ask several questions:

  • How much did the person have to drink?
  • How many hours ago did they start drinking?
  • Have they taken any other drugs?
  • Are they taking any medications?
  • Do they have any health issues?

They’ll also perform a quick exam, and probably take the person to the hospital. Treatment for acute alcohol poisoning7 usually includes IV fluids and airway protection to make sure they continue breathing.

Recovery Process and Aftercare

It can take many hours to detox from alcohol. Data shows that every time you have a drink, your blood alcohol levels increase quickly,8 peaking about an hour later. Then your BAC goes back down slowly over the next 4 hours. But that’s true for every drink you have—so if you drink a lot in one night, you could experience several of these peaks in a row. 

This data describes the average person, so your experience may be different. Medical attention may or may not speed up the recovery process. 

After the alcohol clears from your system, you may feel better right away. No matter how you feel, it’s important to follow up with a medical professional a few days later. Arrive for that appointment clear-headed and ready to talk about your health. They may need to share medical information about what happened while you were intoxicated. They might also need to officially evaluate you for signs of alcohol addiction.

Prevention of Alcohol Poisoning

To avoid alcohol poisoning, experts recommend you have no more than 1 drink per hour.9 You can alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, or alcohol and water. 

It’s also important to know your limits. If you’re not feeling well, or you haven’t eaten all day, your alcohol tolerance might be lower than usual. There’s no need to “keep up with” the people around you if they’re drinking more heavily. Your body’s limits might just be different from theirs. 

If and when you do drink, you can take certain actions to minimize risks. For example, you can make a plan for how you’ll get home at the end of the night. Choose a designated driver or budget to take a rideshare. Never drive after you’ve been drinking. And if possible, travel with a friend so you can each make sure the other gets home safely. 

Long-Term Effects and Risks of Alcohol Poisoning

Experts say that repeated alcohol poisoning can “interfere with brain development,”10 especially for teens. While one episode of alcohol overdose may seem like no big deal, this pattern can quickly spiral out of control.

Regular binge drinking increases your risk of alcohol addiction.11 This condition can have very serious effects. For example, excessive drinking can damage your internal organs12 over time. It can also undermine your relationships, career goals, and mental health. 

If you’re concerned about alcohol addiction, it’s never too early to start recovery. Treatment can help you address the root cause of your behavior and not just the symptoms. This approach helps clients find long-term recovery from alcohol abuse.

Drink Smarter, Not Harder

Alcohol poisoning is a type of drug overdose. It has dangerous short-term effects, and can even be life-threatening. Repeated alcohol overdoses can cause addiction, organ damage, and other serious health problems. 

If you think someone has alcohol poisoning, don’t wait to be sure—get help right away. Immediate medical attention could save their life. To learn more about how to drink responsibly, you can check out these free resources: 

Some people can learn to drink safely. Others are at a greater risk of addiction. Your genetics, family history of drinking, and other factors can all play a role. Despite your best efforts, you might still need help recovering from alcohol abuse. 


Connect with a rehab for alcohol addiction to get the support you need.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alcohol Poisoning 

What is alcohol poisoning and how long does it last?

Alcohol poisoning, also known as alcohol overdose, occurs when someone consumes a dangerous amount of alcohol, leading to severe symptoms. The duration of alcohol poisoning varies, influenced by factors such as the person’s alcohol tolerance, body weight, and hydration levels. It’s a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

What are the short-term effects of alcohol poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning depresses the central nervous system, causing symptoms like vomiting, confusion, low heart rate, and loss of consciousness. It can also lead to dangerous complications such as choking and breathing difficulties. If someone shows these symptoms while drinking, it may indicate alcohol poisoning and means they need prompt medical intervention.

How can alcohol poisoning be prevented?

To prevent alcohol poisoning, experts recommend consuming no more than 1 drink per hour and knowing your limits. Alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can help. If you’re concerned about alcohol addiction, seeking early treatment can help prevent long-term health risks and complications.

Posted on

Blacking Out Drunk: Understanding the Risks, Causes, and Prevention

“If recreational drugs were tools, alcohol would be a sledgehammer.” – NCBI article

Some hail getting “blackout drunk” as the apex drinking experience: a testament to how wild the party was or how disinhibited they felt. But rather than being a story to tell, getting blackout drunk can put you on a dangerous path—one of crime, danger, and life-changing risks. 

What Does It Mean to Black Out?

Blacking out drunk means you have a “blackout” period in your memory. You won’t remember anything that happened around you or to you when you were “blacked”. You’re still awake when you black out, just not making memories. That’s because alcohol can block the transference of memories into long-term storage.  

Alcohol can cause 2 types of blackouts: partial and complete. If you have a complete blackout period, you won’t remember anything. Your blackout will simply feel like a blank expanse in time. Partial blackouts mean you can remember a few things, like who drove you home and where your purse might be. Physical or emotional cues can also trigger the memories you made in a partial blackout.  

Both types of blackouts keep you from forming and recollecting memories.

How Alcohol Affects The Brain And Memory

Blackouts affect an area of the brain called the hippocampus, where memories form and move into long-term storage. Too much alcohol keeps this transfer from happening. Just 1-2 drinks can start the memory-losing process. 

Alcohol disrupts the communicative chemical activity in your hippocampus. That disruption between neurons prevents the hippocampus from storing events and memories as they happen. Blackouts don’t affect past memories or the ones you make when sober, only the memories made with too much alcohol in your system. 

You may seem alert and able to hold a conversation when blacked out. But any interactions you have won’t stay in your memory for longer than a few minutes. 

Who’s More Susceptible to Blackouts?

The severity of your blackout usually depends on your blood-alcohol level—the higher it is, the more complete your blackout. Because of this, some groups are more susceptible to blacking out, including women, young college students, and binge drinkers. 

With generally smaller bodies, women are more likely to black out than men. Women also have less of an enzyme in their stomach that breaks down alcohol. And, they’re more likely to drink wine or mixed drinks instead of beer, which has comparatively less alcohol. 

College students and other young drinkers also experience blackouts more often. It’s usually because they’re not used to drinking (especially in high amounts), leading to accidental blackouts. Similarly, binge drinkers, or someone who drinks a lot in a short period of time, may rapidly raise their blood-alcohol level and black out more often. 

Recognizing The Signs of Blackout Drinking

You can look for some of these signs of blackout drinking if someone seems blackout drunk. But be aware: you won’t always know if someone’s blackout, yourself included. Though surprising, your friend may seem fine and have most of their motor and cognitive functioning intact. 

What you can look for is problems with their memory. Though everyone shows cognitive impairment when they’re drunk, like seeming spaced out, they’ll usually still have some of their memory intact. If you suspect someone’s blackout drunk, take them home as soon as you can. 

Forgetfulness

Someone who’s blackout drunk may repeat questions, seem confused, or forget the names/faces/information they just learned about. 

To test their memory-storing ability, try asking your friend to name 3 items: fruits, for example. Then, a couple of minutes later, ask what fruits they named. If they’re not blacked, they’ll eventually remember what fruits they named—even if they need time to think or slur their words. 

Retelling Stories

Your friend may repeat the same story because they don’t remember already telling it. They may also tell you the same thing repeatedly throughout the night, like they’ve spotted your mutual friend nearby.

Seeming Confused When Corrected

If you tell your friend they’ve already told you the same thing multiple times, they may seem confused. They may not even believe you. They’ll likely have no idea their memory has started to go—even if they’re concerned about that, their worries will soon fade. 

Motor or Cognitive Impairment

If someone seems drunk, look for stumbling, nonsensical speech, poor coordination, slurred speech, and sleepiness. This could indicate they’re heavily drunk and in a blackout state.

When to Intervene

If your friend, or anyone else, seems blackout drunk, keep a close eye on them. Since they’re mentally and physically impaired, they could easily get into trouble. Make sure they don’t drive, even if they seem “fine”. And make sure they don’t go off alone with anyone—someone could try to take advantage of their impairment.

And ask your friend to stay around you. If they can’t remember to stay by you, you might need to shadow them. 

Step away from the situation if you’re able and they’re willing. This could mean going home if you’re at a bar or going to a safe room and lying down if you’re at a party. Never let them drive—and call a taxi or Uber if you don’t feel safe driving, either.

Risks And Consequences of Blacking Out

Sexual And Physical Violence

Getting blackout drunk puts you at risk of physical and sexual violence. You may unwittingly go along with whatever someone else wants—even if that’s stealing, vandalizing someone’s house, or sleeping with someone you never planned to. 

If you did sleep with someone, you may not remember if you gave consent, if your partner was violent, or if you used protection. And if something terrible did occur, not knowing would prevent you from getting the medical care you need. That applies to both physical and sexual assaults. 

Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE (4673)
Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1.800.799.7233 or text “START” to 88788
Crisis Hotline: Call or Text 988

Waking Up…Somewhere

After blacking out, you could wake up and not know where you are, how you got there, or how to get home. You might wake up a few blocks from your house or on the other side of your city—blackouts make almost anything possible. 

Acting Out of Character

You could get into trouble in a blackout state. Being impaired mentally and physically, you might bend easily to peer pressure. Or, doing something illegal may suddenly seem fun, like stealing. Then, you could wind up in legal trouble.

Causes And Triggers of Blackout Drinking

Blackouts commonly happen after high-intensity drinking, when you have at least twice as many drinks per hour more than binge drinking (8+ drinks in 2 hours for women, 10+ for men). Binge and high-intensity drinking lead to blackouts because your blood-alcohol level rises too fast. 

Some drugs, like sleep or anti-anxiety medications, can cause blackouts at a lower blood-alcohol level. Keeping aware of your medications can help you prevent getting blackout drunk.

Prevention Strategies for Blackout Drinking

You can prevent blackout drinking by drinking in moderation. Set a limit for yourself, like one drink per hour. Be sure to eat a full meal before drinking and start the night hydrated. And drink slowly—take sips instead of gulps. Avoid chugging, shotgunning, or joining in other drinking games. 

You can also try staggering your alcoholic drinks. For example, having a glass of wine, a big cup of water, then a smaller glass of wine. Plan for how you’re going to get home, too. Either bring a friend who’s not drinking or schedule an Uber in advance. 

Avoid drinking in unfamiliar situations, too. Nerves could cause you to drink multiple drinks much faster than usual. And, only drink what you buy or bring yourself. Never take a drink from a stranger. 

Supporting Others And Seeking Help

One way to help a friend or family member struggling with their drinking is by noticing how much they drink. If they frequently black out, binge drink, or drink whenever they can, you can consider starting a conversation about how they’re feeling and how alcohol fits into their life. 

You can start the conversation early by talking to your kids/teens about blackout drinking and its consequences. But you can emphasize the risks of blackout drinking with someone of any age. You can also pass along tips to avoid blackout drinking, how to quit drinking, and make drinking a safer experience for those you love. 

If your friend or family member reveals they’ve been struggling with drinking, you can share these resources with them:

You can also offer yourself as a resource of support. Though you can’t make anyone get help, you can offer a listening ear and be someone to walk beside as your loved one begins their recovery journey. 
To learn more, you can browse our list of rehabs treating alcohol addiction to see photos, reviews, insurance information, and more.

Posted on

What Is THC-O? Understanding the Risks

THC-O is one of many new cannabis products. Since it’s so different from other types of marijuana, like THC and CBD, you might wonder what THC-O is in the first place. Is it safe, regulated, or even legal? And can it lead to addiction?

All drugs can potentially lead to addiction—even marijuana. To keep yourself safe, you can learn more about THC-O and how it works. 

THC-O vs. THC

You may have heard of THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol,1 the chemical compound in marijuana that gets you high. THC-O, also called THC-O acetate,2 is a synthetic compound similar to THC. 

Compared to some of the natural compounds in cannabis, THC-O produces profound psychoactive effects. THC-O is almost 3 times stronger than regular THC. People who use THC-O call it a “spiritual cannabinoid.”3 Some also use it for anxiety, nausea, sleep, and pain management.

How Long Does It Take For THC-O to Kick In?

The onset time of THC-O varies depending on several factors, including your metabolism, dosage, method of consumption, and tolerance. According to an analysis of social media discussions on THC-O,4 “Multiple users reported a relatively lengthy onset of effects and/or a lengthy duration of effects:” 

‘Thco also takes ab 45 mins to fully hit you n last considerably longer than thc.’

‘Takes an hour to fully kick in then for me the high lasts several hours’ 

‘The high from thc-o lasts SIGNIFICANTLY longer than d8/even d9. like, way longer.’ 

THC-O typically takes longer to kick in when you ingest it orally (via edibles or capsules) compared to inhalation methods like smoking or vaping. That’s because digestion through your GI tract takes longer than absorption through your lungs, which happens rapidly. Onset time can also vary depending on the specific product. 

How Is THC-O Made?

THC-O doesn’t occur naturally in marijuana. Instead, manufacturers derive THC-O from hemp plants. This chemical process takes place in a lab: 

  1. Manufacturers extract CBD, a naturally occurring cannabinoid, from the hemp plant.
  2. Next, they use special equipment to extract Delta-8 THC, another synthetic compound. 
  3. Finally, they add a highly flammable chemical—acetic anhydride—directly to the Delta-8 THC molecules. This results in THC-O. 

Is THC-O Safe?

THC-O is relatively new, and scientists are still gathering data to determine if it’s safe. But some studies paint an alarming picture. 

The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) warns against THC-O.5 According to their website, this compound “has never been tested for safety in human studies.” But the little data we have suggests that THC-O can cause serious health problems.6 For example, THC-O vapes often include toxic chemicals. These additives can cause lung injuries and digestive issues. 

Research on other synthetic cannabinoids7 like Delta-8 THC and Delta-9 THC further points to the potential dangers of THC-O. Studies link these cannabinoids to psychosis, chronic vomiting, and addiction when used at high concentrations.

The Risks of THC-O

The potential risks of THC-O are unclear for a few reasons. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp at a federal level, opening the door for hemp products like THC-O. The DEA only designated THC-O as a controlled substance in 2023. 

With this lack of regulation, there’s no standard procedure for producing THC-O. So its strength and quality vary drastically depending on how it’s made. When you try a new THC-O product, there’s no way to predict whether it’s safe. 

What Are the Side Effects of THC-O?

The side effects of synthetic cannabinoids can be unpredictable and dangerous. While we still need more data, current research points to several side effects of THC-O. 

Hallucinations

Some experts call THC-O a psychedelic drug8 much like LSD or psilocybin. It’s so powerful that, according to the Chicago Sun Times, the military once researched it as a “nonlethal incapacitating agent.” In high doses THC-O may produce hallucinations, making you see, hear, or feel things that aren’t there. 

Dizziness

Many synthetic cannabinoids can make you dizzy.9 THC-O is no exception. This can make it dangerous to work, drive, or engage in other routine activities. 

Sedation

Many people use cannabis products to improve their sleep. And in moderation, THC-O might help you relax. But if you take too much, you might fall asleep by accident or sleep longer than you intended. And with unregulated drugs like THC-O, that’s easy to do. You might not know how strong it is until you feel its effects.

Vomiting

Overconsumption of cannabis—and most drugs—can make you sick to your stomach. Since THC-O has stronger effects than natural cannabinoids, these symptoms are likely to be more intense.

Paranoia

Like many cannabinoids, THC-O can bring on severe anxiety and paranoia, especially when you take too much. Paranoia, in turn, can affect other aspects of your mental health. For example, some data shows a link between paranoia and low self-esteem.10

The laws surrounding this drug are complicated at best. For example, in the U.S., THC-O is illegal at the federal level. However, it may be legal in some states that permit recreational marijuana use. Since THC-O doesn’t naturally occur in hemp plants, federal law enforcement officials have classified it as a Schedule 1 drug. In other words, THC-O is a federally controlled substance.

Understanding THC-O

With so much uncertainty about THC-O it’s hard to weigh the risks of this new chemical. It’s also important to account for your personal health history. For example, if you know you’re vulnerable to addiction, this drug could be even more dangerous. 

Browse rehabs that treat marijuana addiction to learn about their treatment approaches, insurance options, and more. 

Frequently Asked Questions About THC-O

What is THC-O and how does it differ from THC and CBD?

THC-O, or THC-O acetate, is a synthetic compound similar to THC found in marijuana. It produces profound psychoactive effects and is almost 3 times stronger than regular THC. While THC and CBD are natural compounds, THC-O is a synthetic drug.

Is THC-O strong?

THC-O is significantly stronger than regular THC. It produces profound psychoactive effects and is almost 3 times stronger than regular THC. However, the strength of THC-O can vary depending on the specific product, as there’s no standardized procedure for its production.

Is THC-O safe and legal?

THC-O is a relatively new substance, and its safety is still being studied. However, data suggests significant health risks, including lung injuries and digestive issues from toxic chemicals often found in THC-O vapes. THC-O is illegal at the federal level in the United States, classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance. Its legality may vary in states that allow recreational marijuana use.
Posted on

Coming Out and Mental Health: Navigating the Emotional Journey

Coming out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community can feel daunting, liberating, scary, or all of the above. It can also have positive or negative impacts on your mental health, both of which you can navigate. 

Don’t feel like you need to follow a script, set of steps, or anything else to successfully come out. It’s up to you and what you’re comfortable with. You know your life and circumstances better than anyone else. 

But you do have resources for the journey and its emotional effects. 

Understanding Coming Out

The American Psychological Association defines coming out1 as, “self-awareness of same-sex attractions; the telling of one or a few people about these attractions; widespread disclosure of same-sex attractions; and identification with the lesbian, gay, and bisexual community.” 

For many, coming out shapes the rest of their lives. It can be one of the most significant journeys you ever face. For others, it’s not a big deal. It’s different for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay.

Challenges And Fears of Coming Out

A potent fear related to coming out is the possibility of rejection. Your loved ones could reject your core identity, and that would hurt. 

Social prejudices, misconceptions, and misguided views could also make coming out scary, both right away and in your future. Even if the reactions aren’t negative, they might not feel affirming, either. Both can hurt.

Picking the right time to come out can also feel like a challenge. When do you say it, and who do you tell? Should you tell one person, or a group of your friends and family? 

Only you can truly answer those questions. But the weight of wondering can affect your wellbeing. Drinking or using drugs could seem like a way to alleviate the stress. If you’re struggling with addiction, you can browse our list of LGBTQ+-affirming rehabs. 

Mental Health Considerations in Coming Out

Feeling unaccepted can lead to depression, anxiety, and even trauma. Society’s attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community can also cause minority stress2, which can exacerbate or cause mental health conditions. Some may experience chronic minority stress, which means they’re hypervigilant to possible discrimination, frequently worried about it, or carry internalized stigma of themselves. 

This stress, fear, grief, and trauma can create or worsen mental health conditions. It’s not hard to see why—but that’s not how the story has to go. 

The Impact of Attitudes And Acceptance on Mental Health

Coming out could relieve the emotional toll of hiding. When you come out, you won’t have to adjust your behaviors, actions, and words to hide who you really are. That can feel like a deep relief. 

But make sure you know how you feel about your identity. Take a deep and thoughtful search of your heart—what do you feel when you think about who you are? Internalized homophobia can add stress and shame to your coming out journey. As much as you’re able, try to find and challenge these feelings. 

Coming out can lead to self-acceptance, which can powerfully erase any internalized homophobia. And once you’ve accepted and embraced who you are, what others think might not matter so much. It’s okay and normal if it does. You have ways to navigate that, too. 

Mental Health Resources for the Coming Out Process

Many support groups, online chats, and other resources can help you through the coming-out process. Here’s a few:

  • PFLAG: A LGBTQ+ resource with 400 local chapters in America. Started in 1973, they were the first organization to offer help, education, and support to LGBTQ+ people and their families.
  • 988: They provide resources for LGBTQ+ people and a 24/7, nation-wide suicide crisis hotline. 
  • The Trevor Project: They’re the world’s largest crisis service for LGBTQ+ youth ages 25 and under. You can call, text, or chat the crisis interventionists here 24/7. 
  • Trans Lifeline: A crisis line for trans people that respects your rights and doesn’t use non-consensual interventions.
  • Pride Counseling: A specialized online counseling service for the LGBTQ+ community.
  • LGBT National Help Center: They provide a phone hotline for LGBTQ+ people of all ages to speak with an educated volunteer about identity struggles, coming out, and other concerns. 
comingout

Self-Care Strategies for Mental Well Being

Coming out likely won’t be completely stress-free, and that’s okay. Whether the stressor is big or small, you have ways to manage your emotions and improve your wellbeing. 

You can practice mindfulness and meditation when your emotions feel overwhelming. Try to identify the support you have in your life, too. The resources listed above definitely count as someone you can talk to when you feel overwhelmed.

Be sure to practice self-care, self-compassion, and self-acceptance as you plan and execute coming out. Don’t force yourself to follow what anyone else did, either. The way and time you come out is unique to you—try to take comfort in that. Here’s some other self-care steps you can take:

Your mentor could be someone who came out months or years ago. They can help you through the process and offer support from someone who’s really been there. 

To find one, you can connect to an openly queer person in your life. Even if they’re not able to help you throughout the whole process, it might help you to know that they know what you’re going through. If you don’t know any potential mentors, or don’t feel comfortable doing so, you can connect with others online. 

Building Resilience and Creating a Supportive Environment

A negative reaction to your identity will probably hurt. But you can manage that pain by building resilience and creating a supportive, safe environment for yourself.

The American Psychological Association suggests group environments build resilience3. Your group may be other LGTBQ+ people in your neighborhood, work, or school, or a more formalized LGBTQ+ gathering. All your group must do is offer support and bring you happiness to strengthen your recovery. 

A supportive environment will feel safe and accepting. For you, this might include your family, friends, or others in the LGBTQ+ community. It differs for everyone, and that’s okay. If your environment becomes unsupportive, consider leaving it, if you can. Mental health professionals can help you navigate this change. 

Resilience also ties into self-care. The healthier you are physically, the more prepared you’ll be to handle emotional challenges. Take care of your mind, too. That’s where meditation, journaling, and mindfulness come in.

Reach The Other Side of Your Rainbow

Coming out is your unique journey. It can come with stress, worry, and fear, even if you’re excited for the change. But you have help available along the way. 

Along the way, make sure to prioritize your mental health and well being. You can do so through therapy, engaging in support, and actively practicing self-care. 

And remember that your coming-out process is your own. If you think writing out a script will help, do it! If a video seems more helpful, or even baking a cake, do that! The path you take is up to you.

Good luck and be well.

Posted on

The Connection Between Narcissism And Addiction

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

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

What Is Narcissism?

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

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

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

Types of Narcissism

The 3 subtypes of narcissism are: 

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

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

The Impact of Narcissism on Interpersonal Relationships

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

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

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

The Link Between Narcissism And Addiction

Understanding Addiction

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

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

Co-Occurring Narcissism And Addiction

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

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

Why Do They Co-occur?

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

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

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

The Impact of Addiction on Interpersonal Relationships

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

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

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

Psychological Mechanisms of Addiction And Narcissism

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

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

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

Social Factors 

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

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

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

Treatment And Management

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

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

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

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

Posted on

Fawning as a Trauma Response: Understanding Its Effects and Coping Strategies

Fawning as a trauma response is the 4th theorized response to trauma and complex PTSD (c-PTSD). As defined1, “Fawn types seek safety by merging with the wishes, needs, and demands of others” and, “fawn types avoid emotional investment and potential disappointment by barely showing themselves.”

Fawns intrinsically believe they’ll need to forfeit their desires, boundaries, and rights1 to earn a relationship with someone. Childhood trauma/c-PTSD often causes the fawning response2, though later-life traumas can too. Psychoeducation and therapy can help fawns, and treatment providers, understand and overcome this response.  

Defining Fawning as a Trauma Response

Fawning was recognized fairly recently as a trauma response, adding to the better-known Fight, Flight, and Freeze responses. Fawns often grow up in an abusive home environment3 or with narcissistic parents. Fawns adapt to trauma by adhering to others’ needs. The usual narrative goes:

“If I just do what they want, am always useful, exceed their expectations, and never cause conflict, I’ll be okay.”

While that tactic may have worked when they needed it to, fawning also puts many “fawns” in the paths of narcissists, abusers, and manipulative people. Since they feel unable or scared to say no, a fawn may fall victim to these domineering personalities. 

How Fawning Differs from Other Trauma Responses

You could also react to trauma with fight, flight, or freeze responses3.

  • Fight: When something triggers you, you’ll face the threat with yelling, physical or emotional aggression, crying, or attacking the source of the danger.
  • Flight: You’ll physically or emotionally flee from the perceived threat. If you can’t do either, you may feel extremely anxious, fidgety, and hyperarousal.
  • Freeze: Perceived danger could make you freeze up and lose control of your body. You may even black out as a way to completely avoid the danger.

Fawning, in contrast, has few or no physical signs. The person fawning may seem completely fine, not triggered at all. They might think they’re fine, too. But that emotional disconnect can become another way to deal with past and ongoing trauma. 

Early Triggers Leading to Fawning

Children may adapt to emotional, physical, or sexual abuse by submitting to their abuser and aiming to please4. As children, fawns also ignore their own needs, feelings, and boundaries to appease people of authority—usually their parents. This pattern often continues into adulthood.

For example, a hungry child may hold their tongue for fear their mother will lash out if they communicate their hunger. Or, a child may push down the anger of being ignored by their parents for fear of being ridiculed. Staying quiet and outwardly unbothered then becomes the safest course of action. 

Psychological Mechanisms of Fawning

To the fawn, fawning is their only means of staying safe. They consistently sacrifice their needs and boundaries for safety, which can lead them to believe the two can’t intertwine. That belief can lead to codependency in adulthood2 and a personality change. For example, a headstrong child may grow into a demure, people-pleasing adult. 

How Fawning Changes Attachment Styles

Instead of having a secure attachment style5, a fawn will likely gravitate towards fearful-avoidant styles. These styles describe someone who has a negative model of self and others. A fawn may crave intimate relationships but feel too afraid of pain and ridicule to maintain or initiate relationships. 

Pandering and people-pleasing can prevent fawns from forming secure, mutually beneficial friendships. Others who value the fawn’s thoughts and opinions may struggle to connect with someone who “mindlessly” agrees to their every whim. In contrast, a narcissistic person would enjoy a fawn’s ongoing agreeability. 

Fawning And c-PTSD

Childhood trauma is one of the forms of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (c-PTSD). Someone with c-PTSD will have distorted beliefs2 about themself: that they’re worthless, unimportant, small, and unworthy. So, they may fawn as an outward show of their unimportance compared to the importance of their abuser—hoping this juxtaposition will spare them harm.

A fawn may continue this long enough that it becomes part of who they are. 

Effects of Fawning on Individuals

Even if you’re no longer fawning as a trauma response, it can become part of your adult personality. Fawning can make you feel unheard, used, and unimportant. You may also feel confused since you don’t have a reason to fawn or want to stand your ground, but it keeps happening anyway.  

Chronic fawning could dissolve your boundaries, identity, and self-esteem over time. You may feel only as important as you can be to someone else. Or, you may find yourself caught up with emotional abusers who exploit your people-pleasing. Neither has a positive effect on your model of self.

Fawning can also disconnect you from genuinely good people who want to satisfy your needs and make you feel seen. Someone who desires a mutual friendship or romantic relationship may feel confused by a fawn’s behavior. This could then rob you of healthy relationships throughout your life. But it doesn’t need to stay that way.

Healing And Recovery

Therapy can help you process your trauma and recognize the effects of your fawning response. You may decide on rehab for trauma, outpatient treatment, or sessions with a trauma-informed therapist. Discuss your options with your doctor or therapist to find the best fit for you.

Therapies for Trauma And The Fawn Response

Your therapist may use a combination of therapies, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to address your trauma. 

EMDR therapists have you briefly recall your trauma while you track an object6 (like a pen) back and forth with your eyes. Some therapists use touch. Tracking the object desensitizes you to the strong emotions brought up by retelling your trauma. This can help you process the event without such painful emotions attached to it. 

CBT works by identifying and adjusting the potentially distorted thoughts7 leading to your behaviors. Using CBT, your therapist can help you identify the thoughts and emotions causing you to fawn. Then, you’ll work on adjusting your behaviors with the truth of your thoughts revealed.

ACT helps you accept painful emotions and traumas8 as an inevitable part of life and respond with flexibility and adaptability—rather than suppression. Using ACT, your therapist can help you find more productive ways to adapt to trauma by committing to the pursuit of your values and desires. For example, you may accept your fear of saying no to someone but commit to setting the boundaries that would protect your valued energy, well-being, and time. 

In therapy, you can also learn coping strategies to recognize fawning and protect yourself from its effects. 

Coping Strategies for Fawning

First, you can learn to recognize fawning. Keep these questions in mind as you determine what is/isn’t a fawning response:

  • Did saying yes or doing what the other person wanted make you angry?
  • Did saying no feel unsafe? (If you need to talk with someone, call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE, or text START to 88788.)
  • Did you feel responsible for how someone reacted to something?
  • Did you adopt or agree with the values of a friend, even though you don’t actually feel that way?
  • Did you act like you agree with someone just to get them to favor you and do what you want?

How you answer those questions can queue you into your tendency to fawn. If you recognize your behaviors as fawning, you can fill a toolbox with coping strategies on your own or with your therapist. Here’s a few examples of responses to use when you feel tempted to fawn:

  1. “No, I don’t feel comfortable doing that.”
  2. “I don’t have time to take that on for you.”
  3. “I don’t have the mental space to fix this problem for you.”
  4. “No, I can’t.”
  5. “No, I can’t do that, but here’s how I can help….”
  6. “I disagree but value your opinion.”
  7. “I’m not able to do that now.”
  8. “I want to help, but I’m not the person to help you with this.”
  9. “No, I need to put my time elsewhere.”
  10. “No.”

They may feel scripted at first, but keep practicing responses like these to get better at expressing your genuine desires and opinions. 

Practical Solutions for Fawning

As part of AAA (Acknowledge your feelings, Acknowledge what you want to happen next, Action), you first need to acknowledge your tendency to fawn. With the help of a therapist, you can delve into what caused this response. If it’s a way to garner acceptance from others, you may discuss why you desperately need their acceptance and how you can feel just as validated and accepted without people-pleasing. 

Then, you can take responsibility for your emotions. You can do this by journaling your emotions and how you express them in the moment. Once you take responsibility for those emotions, you can move into problem-solving. 

You and your therapist can think of practical ways to address and respond to the emotions causing you to fawn, like journaling, writing out new responses, and brainstorming what you could say/do to feel safe and validated. Together, you can also learn how to validate yourself and grow your self-acceptance without needing the approval of others.  

Supportive Resources And Communities

You can attend support groups for trauma online and in person. The c-PTSD Foundation, for example, offers online support on their website. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has a tool for locating mental health support groups in your area. You can also search for the support groups in your area via an internet search or by contacting a mental health institute in your community. 

Or, if you want to deepen your knowledge and introspection, you can read these books about trauma and the fawning response:

You can browse Amazon, your local library, and other online bookstores for more books on trauma and the fawning response. 

Advocacy And Raising Awareness

You can advocate for yourself or someone else by learning more about the fawning response. Education can pave the way for greater understanding in both yourself and someone with limited background knowledge on trauma (and how people respond to it).

Continued awareness for fawning and other trauma responses also promotes trauma-informed care throughout different treatment settings. Your understanding of this trauma response can help others–and yourself–feel understood, valued, and validated.

Posted on

Can Withdrawal Kill You?

Without proper care, the withdrawal symptoms from certain substances could kill you. A symptom this extreme depends on what you’ve been taking, how much, and how long you’ve been taking it. 

Not every drug has dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Some, though extremely uncomfortable, won’t hurt you. But alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opiates have the potential to be deadly.

After discussing your situation with your doctor or care team, you might decide to detox in a licensed, medically monitored detox environment. Many rehab centers with detox offer just this. 

What Causes Withdrawal Symptoms?

Your brain and body get used to drugs or alcohol and adapt to work around them. Once you stop taking substances, your body has to adjust to life without them. So, you experience withdrawal symptoms as your body returns to homeostasis1. Though the change is arguably good, your body still has to adjust—which might not feel good at all. 

If you’ve become highly dependent, stopping becomes dangerous. In those cases, you can seek treatment in a detox center or a residential rehab with detox. Detox centers treat non-life-threatening withdrawal symptoms too. Your comfort and safety both matter. 

Withdrawals vary across the different types of drugs and substances. Some pose no threat. Others require careful supervision. 

Alcohol Withdrawal

Detoxing from alcohol2 could be dangerous. The level of danger, and general symptom intensity, depends on how much you drink and how long you’ve been drinking. 

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms2 could include 

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Shaking
  • Delirium tremens (DT)
  • Insomnia
  • Hallucinations
  • Extreme confusion
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Excessive, purposeless activity (getting in and out of bed, wandering around)
  • Anxiety
  • Grand mal seizures

Delirium tremens commonly affect those with a long history of drinking. DT’s symptoms3 include “profound confusion, autonomic hyperactivity, and cardiovascular collapse.” It’s rare, but needs to be caught as soon as possible to avoid danger. 

The other symptoms of alcohol detox may feel gross, but don’t tend to be life-threatening—especially under the supervision of doctors and nurses. Then, medications like Antabuse can help you stay sober4 in recovery.

Opiate Withdrawal

Opioid withdrawals can feel like a bad flu5, or the sickest you’ve felt in your entire life. Typically, though, it’s not one of the withdrawals that can kill you. The severity of symptoms depends on your dose and how long you’ve been taking opioids. 

The discomfort of opiate withdrawals can make you crave opioids even more. For many, temptations to alleviate the pain can cause a relapse5. Detoxing in a residential setting could help you avoid this in your early days of recovery.

During your opioid detox period, you might experience

  • Diarrhea
  • Dysphoria
  • Goosebumps
  • Restless legs
  • Muscle pains
  • Dizziness
  • Insomnia
  • Malaise
  • High heart rate

You can die from dehydration during opioid withdrawals6, caused by excessive vomiting and diarrhea. This catastrophic effect usually happens in jails, where prompt (and sufficient) medical care isn’t as common. 

Medications can curb the effects of opioid withdrawals7. For opioid detox, your doctor may prescribe methadone, buprenorphine, clonidine, and lofexidine. Each operates in different ways to diminish cravings and make withdrawals more comfortable. You can continue to take these medications to maintain your sobriety.

Heroin Withdrawal

As a short-acting opioid, heroin’s withdrawals typically set in 8-24 hours after your last dose7. They can last 4-10 days. 

Heroin’s withdrawal symptoms mimic a very bad flu. Turning to opioid-agonists, like methadone, can help you taper off high doses and maintain sobriety. Methadone relieves cravings and discomfort without the euphoric rush of heroin and other opioids8, making it non-addictive at the proper dose. 

And, using a maintenance medication like methadone reduces the risk of relapse by satisfying cravings8. This can also prevent HIV and infections caused by needle sharing—and, largely, relapse in general. 

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Depending on your dose and length of use, benzodiazepine withdrawals can be life threatening. Benzos treat anxiety and sleep disorders5 but could become addictive if used too long. Detoxing from benzos presents several dangers.

Benzo withdrawals resemble alcohol withdrawals5, which have a death risk. For that reason, you’ll likely need to detox in a medically monitored setting, like a hospital or residential rehab. Here’s what you might experience during benzodiazepine detox9:

  • Seizures
  • Muscle pains
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness
  • Agitation
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Hand tremors
  • Excessive sweating
  • Heart palpitations
  • Catatonia
  • Death

Withdrawal symptoms usually begin 2-10 days after your last dose and can last 2-8 weeks. You can manage the symptoms by gradually weaning off benzodiazepines5, which gives your body time to adjust to lower doses. Going cold turkey, or stopping all at once, could cause psychosis, death, seizures, and convulsions10.  

Withdrawing From Multiple Substances

There’s limited research on detoxing from multiple substances. But, the available research shows each drug needs its own attention during detox11. For example, detoxing from a stimulant and a depressant at the same time requires a more nuanced approach. So, physicians may prescribe 2 withdrawal medications to combat the effects of multiple substances. 

Withdrawing from multiple substances has its challenges, but it’s not uncommon. A study found 71% of patients in detox were withdrawing from 2 or more substances11. Your care provider will make the ultimate decision regarding any medications you’ll need during detox and how the process might look for you. 

Getting Treatment for Withdrawal Symptoms

At best, detoxing might feel uncomfortable. At worst, it could kill you. But for each end of the detoxing spectrum, you have treatment options. 

For many withdrawal symptoms, you may need the help and care of a detox center. Or, a residential rehab with a detox program. In a center like this, you can begin therapeutic residential treatment right after detoxing.
To see your options, you can browse our list of rehabs with detox that includes pricing, photos, insurance information, and more.

Posted on

Homelessness and Addiction: How Are They Related?

Homelessness and addiction are related. Despite this relationship, the correlation is not a certainty. But many think they are, so myths and speculations abound: 

Myth 1: “All homeless are addicts. They just need to stop using and things will get better.”

Myth 2: “Addicts always become homeless. It’s their fault.”

Myth 3: “Homeless people are violent because they’re always on drugs.”

Research, time, and empathy have proven both statements (and related ones) wrong. But homelessness and substance abuse do connect in some ways.

The 2 have a bidirectional relationship1—they can both feed into each other. Rehabs for drug and alcohol addiction can sometimes help with both issues at once, but usually, homeless people rely on shelters and specific resources for their population2. 

Homelessness and Addiction Statistics

A 2022 study by Statista found that roughly 55,000 unsheltered homeless people experience addiction3. In other studies, a third of addiction treatment patients say they’ve experienced homelessness1. And, 

Looking at the numbers, you can see addiction and homelessness connect. Addiction isn’t always the cause, but it definitely can be—and vice versa. 

How Does Addiction Lead to Homelessness?

Addiction doesn’t exclusively lead to homelessness, but it can cause it. Economic statuses, marital statuses, family relationships, and social-economic factors can all make addiction a cause of homelessness.

As an example, someone making minimum or median income would feel the financial effects of addiction almost immediately. As their limited income depletes, paying rent gets harder. 

For additional context, street prices of illicit and prescribed drugs average out to $356 per gram6. The price can be as high as $500 for heroin. An average 24-pack of beer costs around $17. 

Addiction isn’t cheap.

Many homeless adults don’t have the option of staying with family when they can’t afford rent. Their loved ones may have cut them off, moved away, or passed on. Their only viable option could be living in a shelter or on the street.

…And Does Homelessness and Drug Use Lead to Addiction?

It can. Some homeless people use opioids, weed, alcohol, and other substances to cope with the trauma of becoming homeless5. Others do it to fit in with the community. 

Homeless people may also start using substances to stay awake, sleep, or stay energized when they’re malnourished. Drug addiction can become a crutch for living homeless that takes up the funds, time, and energy they could otherwise use to get help. Homeless people might also run into legal trouble and tarnish a clean record.

And even though help exists, it’s not always easy for this population to get it.

Understanding The Challenges And Seeking Help

Whatever the cause may be of addiction and homelessness, getting help has its challenges. A lack of money, support, and knowledge leaves many thinking there’s no way out.

But there is. 

Barrier #1: Shelter And Safety

Getting help for addiction might not seem like a top priority if you don’t have somewhere safe to stay. You might be more concerned with getting cover, keeping yourself safe from others, and keeping yourself out of trouble. You likely wouldn’t have much time or mental energy to focus on treatment. 

Not all homeless people have access to shelter, even temporary overnight lodging. If they do find shelter, it’s rarely long term. 

Having a home base, even if it’s a temporary living situation in a shelter, can help your fight-or-flight mode ease down. Then, thinking about help and taking the next steps might not seem so unfeasible. 

Barrier #2: No Social Support Network

Many homeless adults don’t have anyone to help them help themselves. They don’t have anyone cheering them on. Getting help rests almost entirely on their shoulders, which can be overwhelming. 

And, if addiction is the norm in your community, you might lose what little social support you have if you stop. This could be the case for many homeless people. Even when they want to stop, change their lives, and get help, they might feel pressured to keep using. 

Barrier #3: Mental Illness And The Effects of Addiction

Mental illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD can prevent homeless individuals from wanting–and getting–help. Treatment for these conditions may also be difficult to maintain. Homeless people might miss treatment sessions, have to relocate, or feel unable to add repeated treatment to their lifestyle. These factors can make healthcare providers less willing to work with the homeless population1. 

Active addiction could also make getting short and long-term help difficult.

The symptoms and effects of addiction can mirror some mental illnesses, like schizophrenia. Some drugs, like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and opioids7, can cause psychosis. Many substances, including alcohol and weed, put you in an altered state of mind. This can make decisions difficult, even important ones about your health and wellbeing.

But for each barrier to treatment, even if they seem insurmountable, you have opportunities to reach them. Help awaits.

Find Support for Homelessness and Addiction

Homelessness and drug addiction don’t have to be your story. 

You can begin your recovery journey by finding shelter, if you’re living unsheltered. Some shelters take in men only or women only, while others welcome all genders. Others specifically welcome teens and runaways. Here’s a few options to consider:  

While shelters offering treatment options for substance use disorders (SUDs) aren’t as common as regular homeless shelters, they do exist across America. Most of these SUD-specific shelters provide medication-assisted treatment8 (MAT) for opioid use to combat the growing opioid epidemic. They also provide encouragement, hope, and can lower the mortality rates of addiction and overdose.
You can also find treatment in a residential rehab center as your journey continues. To see rehabs that treat drug and alcohol addiction, you can browse our list of centers with pricing, reviews, photos, and insurance.