Recovery from addiction is a continuous journey that requires ongoing effort and self-awareness. While relapse is a common part of this process, it doesn’t mean failure—it’s an opportunity to learn and strengthen your commitment to sobriety. Understanding and implementing effective relapse prevention techniques can help you navigate challenges, reduce risk, and maintain long-term recovery.

What Is Relapse?

Relapse refers to the return to substance use after a period of abstinence. It typically unfolds in three stages:

• Emotional Relapse: Negative emotions, isolation, or neglecting self-care can lay the groundwork for relapse.
• Mental Relapse: Cravings and internal conflicts arise, with thoughts of using becoming more frequent.
• Physical Relapse: The act of consuming the substance occurs.

The key to preventing relapse is addressing it early in the emotional and mental stages before it progresses.

Best Relapse Prevention Techniques

Develop a Relapse Prevention Plan

A relapse prevention plan is a personalized strategy that identifies your triggers, coping mechanisms, and support systems.

• What to Include:
  • High-risk situations to avoid.
  • Healthy coping skills for managing cravings.
  • Contact information for trusted friends, family, or sponsors.

Identify Triggers

Triggers can be emotional, environmental, or situational. Common examples include stress, conflict, or being in places associated with substance use.

• Action Step: Keep a journal to track situations or emotions that make you feel vulnerable, and develop strategies to manage them.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Stress and overwhelming emotions can increase the risk of relapse. Mindfulness helps you stay present and regulate your response to challenges.

• Techniques:
  • Meditation or yoga.
  • Deep breathing exercises.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation.

Build a Strong Support System

Surrounding yourself with supportive people can make a significant difference in maintaining sobriety.

• Who to Include:
  • Family members or friends who encourage healthy habits.
  • Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
  • A sponsor or recovery coach.

Engage in Therapy

Therapy is a cornerstone of relapse prevention. Working with a professional helps address the underlying causes of addiction and develop coping strategies.

• Types of Therapy:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Teaches skills to change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Helps manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal relationships.

Prioritize Self-Care

Neglecting physical and emotional well-being can leave you vulnerable to relapse.

• Self-Care Practices:
  • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
  • Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
  • Exercise regularly to improve mood and reduce stress.

Set Achievable Goals

Setting short- and long-term goals keeps you motivated and focused. Celebrate milestones to reinforce your progress.

• Example Goals:
  • Attend three support group meetings per week.
  • Rebuild relationships by scheduling weekly family activities.

Avoid High-Risk Situations

Being in environments or around people associated with past substance use can be tempting.

• Tip: Plan ahead by identifying alternative activities or having an exit strategy if you find yourself in a risky situation.

Learn from Setbacks

If a slip or relapse occurs, use it as an opportunity to reflect and refine your prevention plan.

• Steps to Take:
  • Identify what triggered the relapse.
  • Reach out to your support network immediately.
  • Resume your recovery activities without self-judgment.

Stay Committed to Aftercare

Continuing care after completing a treatment program is vital for maintaining sobriety.

• Aftercare Options:
  • Outpatient therapy sessions.
  • Relapse prevention workshops.
  • Alumni programs or sober living communities.

How Atlanta Recovery Place Can Help

At Atlanta Recovery Place, we understand the challenges of maintaining long-term recovery and are committed to helping you succeed. Our programs include evidence-based therapies, relapse prevention training, and personalized aftercare plans to support you every step of the way.

Relapse is a risk in recovery, but with the right tools and strategies, it can be prevented. By building self-awareness, leaning on your support system, and committing to healthy habits, you can navigate challenges and maintain a fulfilling, sober life.

If you or a loved one is ready to strengthen your recovery, contact Atlanta Recovery Place today. Together, we can help you achieve lasting success.

Opioids, widely prescribed for pain management, are among the most commonly misused medications in the United States. Understanding how long opioids stay in your system is vital for those in recovery, individuals managing chronic pain, and anyone seeking insight into how these substances affect the body.

What Are Opioids?

Opioids are a class of drugs that include both prescription medications (like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine) and illegal substances (like heroin). They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, blocking pain and often creating feelings of euphoria. While opioids can be medically beneficial, they carry a high potential for dependence, misuse, and overdose.

Factors That Affect How Long Opioids Stay in Your System

The time it takes for opioids to leave your system depends on several factors, including:

• Type of Opioid: Different opioids, such as fentanyl or codeine, have varying half-lives and durations of action.
• Dosage and Frequency: Higher doses or frequent use may prolong the time opioids are detectable.
• Metabolism: Individual metabolic rates can influence how quickly opioids are processed.
• Age and Health: Older individuals or those with liver or kidney issues may metabolize opioids more slowly.
• Method of Use: Snorting, injecting, or oral ingestion can alter how quickly the body processes the substance.

How Long Do Opioids Show Up in Different Tests?

Detection times for opioids vary depending on the type of test used:

Urine Tests

Urine tests are the most common for detecting opioid use.

• Short-acting opioids (e.g., heroin, oxycodone): 1-3 days
• Long-acting opioids (e.g., methadone, buprenorphine): 4-7 days

Blood Tests

Blood tests detect opioids shortly after use and are typically used in clinical or legal settings.

• Detectable for up to 12-24 hours for most opioids.

Saliva Tests

Saliva tests offer a less invasive method of detection.

• Opioids can be detected for up to 1-4 days after use, depending on the substance.

Hair Tests

Hair tests provide a longer detection window.

• Opioids can be detected for up to 90 days in hair follicles.

Why Is Understanding Detection Time Important?

Understanding how long opioids stay in your system is critical for several reasons:

• Recovery Monitoring: Knowing detection times helps support accountability during recovery.
• Safety: For those prescribed opioids, awareness prevents potential drug interactions or unsafe behaviors.
• Employment: Many employers conduct routine drug testing, which could be affected by opioid use.

Seeking Help for Opioid Dependence

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid use, it’s essential to seek professional help. Prolonged opioid use can lead to physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and serious health risks.

At Atlanta Recovery Place, our drug and alcohol rehab specializes in evidence-based treatments tailored to your recovery journey. Our compassionate team provides a supportive environment where you can overcome addiction and regain control of your life.

Contact Atlanta Recovery Place Today to Learn More

The length of time opioids remain in your system varies based on individual and drug-specific factors. While testing methods can detect opioids over different timeframes, the most critical step is understanding how opioid use impacts your health and seeking help if needed.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward recovery, contact Atlanta Recovery Place for opioid rehab today. Together, we can work toward a healthier, brighter future.

Substance abuse, a pervasive concern for public health in the United States, affects a significant portion of our population. Understanding the scale of this issue and devising effective strategies for treatment and prevention is paramount. This article delves into the substances most frequently misused in the U.S., drawing from data and perspectives found in governmental sources. 

Alcohol

Alcohol stands out as a substance frequently misused in the United States based on findings from the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). It’s reported that around 14..S million adults aged 18 and above grappled with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the year 2019. The prevalence of binge drinking and excessive alcohol consumption is worrisome, with close to a quarter of individuals aged 18 and over admitting to engaging in binge drinking within the month. 

Alcohol is a continuous problem due to its availability and it’s impact on cognitive function; like lowering inhibitions. Additionally, because it is a legal substance for individuals over the age of 21, underage individuals don’t see it as a threat like illegal substances.

Painkillers

The misuse of opioids such as prescription painkillers and heroin, along with opioids like fentanyl, has led to a considerable impact in terms of drug misuse and fatalities due to overdose incidents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that in the year 2021, 75% of the 107,000 deaths from drug overdose involved opioids. The ongoing opioid crisis has emerged as a public health concern, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl being a major factor in the surge of recent overdose-related fatalities. 

Painkillers are a challenge to monitor and maintain. Because there is no clear way to confirm pain for an individual, doctors must take the word of their patient when prescribing. This can lead individuals to doctor shop for an individual who will provide them with the easiest access, further increasing the likelihood of addiction.

Marijuana

Cannabis is widely known as the most frequently used, federally illegal, substance in the United States, according to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In 2020, around 18% of individuals aged 12 and above in America were reported to have consumed cannabis within the past year. Though cannabis has been legalized for both recreational and medical purposes in several states across the country, it continues to be categorized as a Schedule I controlled substance on a federal level, leading to its label as an illicit drug, within specific circumstances. 

Like alcohol, marijuana availability increases it’s use among children and teens. Its ability to be smoked, eaten, or made into an oil increases access. 

Cocain

The problem of cocaine misuse persists as a concern among the youth population today, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). In the year 2021, around 1. 5 Million individuals aged 12 and above were found to have a cocaine addiction issue, as pointed out by the NIDA report. Furthermore, the misuse of cocaine being a stimulant can result in serious health risks such as heart attacks and strokes. 

Benzodiazepines

Valium and Xanax are types of medications prescribed for managing anxiety and sleep issues. Unfortunately, they are frequently misused alongside substances like opioids, according to NIDA in 2020, where around 12 million individuals abused prescription tranquilizers such as benzodiazepines, leading to potential dependency or overdose risks when mixed with other depressants. 

Battling the Most Widely Abused Drugs in the United States: Atlanta Recovery Place

In a society where substance abuse continues to impact communities, Atlanta Recovery Place stands as a beacon of hope for those battling addiction in Georgia’s capital city. Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, this facility offers personalized and comprehensive treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual seeking help. 

Atlanta Recovery Place offers services such as detox programs, residential treatment options, and outpatient programs to comprehensively support individuals on their journey to recovery. Their holistic approach provides medical and therapeutic assistance and equips clients with the necessary resources for sustained rehabilitation success. The center’s dedication to evidence-based practices and compassionate care positions it as a preference for those looking to conquer addiction. With a success rate of [percentage], Atlanta Recovery Place is a trusted name in addiction treatment. 

Atlanta Recovery Place is committed to establishing a caring atmosphere to assist individuals in laying a strong groundwork for their recovery journey from addiction. They are empathetic toward the obstacles associated with addiction and devoted to providing continuous support to their clients throughout the recovery process by offering optimism and healing. 

The rampant misuse of substances such as alcohol, opioids, cannabis, cocaine, and benzodiazepines underscores the pressing requirement for prevention and therapy approaches. Facilities like Atlanta Recovery Place are pivotal in combatting the substance abuse dilemma by delivering assistance and compassion to individuals seeking help. 
By staying informed about the substances commonly misused and understanding the support systems available, individuals and communities can actively contribute to the fight against the most widely abused drugs in the United States and foster a healthier society. Contact Atlanta Recovery Place today for support.

Bipolar disorder is a type of mental illness characterized by periods of extreme highs and devastating lows. It can be quite difficult to deal with, and it can negatively affect the person with the disorder as well as those around them.

Fortunately, bipolar disorder is manageable. But the first step is diagnosing the issue. If your doctor feels you may be affected, they may give you a test for bipolar disorder. Once they figure out what the issue is, they can work out a treatment plan to keep it under control. This article will discuss the bipolar test and the disorder so you can determine the best way to care for yourself or a loved one. 

What is Bipolar Disorder? 

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by periods of emotional highs, also called mania or hypomania, and devastating lows or depression. When mania is experienced, the person will feel euphoric, energetic, and irritable. When lows are hit, the individual will have a feeling of hopelessness and a loss of interest in the things they once loved. 

Mood swings can occur occasionally or multiple times a year. Some people may have milder symptoms between episodes, while others may have none. There is no cure for the disorder, but you may be able to treat it with medications and therapy. 

There are various types of bipolar disorder, including the following:

• Bipolar I Disorder: People with bipolar I will have at least one manic episode followed by a depressive or hypomanic episode. The mania may be accompanied by psychosis. 
• Bipolar II Disorder: Individuals with bipolar II will have at least one depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, but they will never experience mania. 
• Cyclothymic Disorder: Those with cyclothymic disorder will have at least two years of hypomanic episodes and mild depressive episodes (one year in children and teens). 
• Other types: Bipolar disorder can also come on as a result of doing drugs or as a symptom of certain diseases and health conditions. 

What are the Signs of Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder signs include the following: 

Mania and Hypomania:

• Excessively energetic
• Agitation and irritability 
• Exaggerated sense of self-confidence
• Decreased need for sleep
• Excessive talkativeness
• Racing thoughts
• Easily distracted
• Poor decision making that can lead to dangerous results

Depression: 

• Feelings of hopelessness and sadness
• Loss of interest in the activities you once enjoyed
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Changes in weight and appetite
• Fatigue
• Lack of ability to concentrate
• Suicidal thoughts

Is There a Test for Bipolar Disorder?

If you suspect you have a mental issue, you may want to get tested for bipolar disorder. This will help you figure out what’s troubling you so you can get the treatment you need. A bipolar test involves talking to a medical health professional. The criteria for the diagnosis are available in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnosis of Mental Disorders. During the test, you will be asked about your symptoms and how long they have been occurring. 

The doctor may also give you a physical exam to rule out the possibility of other conditions causing mental issues. While you may find a test for bipolar disorder online, these are not necessarily valid sources. Only a medical professional can give you an accurate diagnosis. 

Finding the Best Bipolar Treatment for Me

It’s not uncommon for people with bipolar disorder to self-medicate with drugs. While the drugs may provide temporary relief from symptoms, they will make things worse in the long run, especially if an addiction forms. 

If you are dealing with bipolar disorder and addiction, Atlanta Recovery Place can get you the help you need. Atlanta Recovery Place takes a dual diagnosis approach that simultaneously treats the illness and its underlying cause. We work with each of our patients to come up with a customized plan that’s best suited to their needs. We follow up with aftercare to ensure that the patient maintains sobriety long-term. 
If you are struggling with bipolar disorder and addiction, it is possible to get help. Atlanta Recovery can assist you in reaching your recovery goals. Contact us to find out how to say goodbye to what’s holding you back and hello to a happier existence.

Opioids are often prescribed to patients who are dealing with high levels of pain. While they are effective in providing relief, they are also very addictive. Many people who start out taking opioids for legitimate medical reasons end up with dangerous dependency issues.

Once an addiction forms, it can be challenging to resist it. Fortunately, some facilities specialize in opioid addiction treatment. This article will review the signs of prescription opioid addiction and the steps to find a treatment center that’s right for you.

What are Prescription Opioids?

Opioids are naturally found in the poppy plant. They work to block pain signals between the brain and body and are used to treat moderate to severe pain. They have also been known to produce feelings of euphoria, which impacts the brain. This process of changing a person’s brain chemistry is what causes opioids to be highly addictive.

Many kinds of opioids are available in prescription form. The most common are:

• Oxycontin
• Vicodin
• Fentanyl

Why are Prescription Opioids Commonly Abused?

There are many reasons why people abuse opioids. In some cases, they may feel like the opioid is not doing enough to treat their pain. They may increase doses without a doctor’s approval. Once they get used to a higher dose, they may find themselves on a downward spiral where they constantly need to take more of the drug to satisfy their increased tolerance.

Others may want to take more of the drug because they enjoy its pleasurable effects. This can apply to people who started using the drug to treat pain and those who use it for recreational purposes.

It is important to note that opioids are not only available by prescription. Many street dealers sell them as well. When found on the street, opioids are not always in their purest form. They can be mixed with harmful substances that make them toxic.

Heroin is an opioid often found on the streets and rarely available for medicinal purposes. Many users who can’t find opioids through their doctors or dealers start using heroin which can be quite dangerous and can easily lead to overdose.

What are the Signs of Prescription Opioid Addiction?

It’s essential to be aware of the signs of prescription opioid addiction. That way, you can find help sooner rather than later. They include:

• Withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug
• Increased tolerance
• Going to multiple doctors to try and get multiple prescriptions
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Irresponsible behavior
• Poor decision making
• Irritability
• Shallow breathing

How to Treat an Opioid Addiction

While it is possible to wean yourself off opioids, it will be easier to recover with the aid of a reliable opioid addiction facility. They will typically take a three-step approach which includes:

Detox: Detox involves allowing the body to rid itself of harmful substances. The patient will experience withdrawal symptoms during this phase of recovery, but a medical staff will supervise them to keep them as comfortable as possible and to ensure that relapse doesn’t occur.

Therapy: After detox is complete, the patient will undergo therapy. They will be assessed to find a customized plan that is best suited to their needs. Various methods are used to treat the addiction and its underlying causes.

Aftercare: After a patient leaves rehab, they may be dealing with stressors that make them want to go back to using. The facility will continue to support them to ensure relapse doesn’t occur.

Finding Opioid Addiction Treatment in Atlanta, GA

When patients look for an opioid treatment, they want to make sure they find one that’s right for them. It should offer a comfortable atmosphere, customized therapies, and a comprehensive program that provides guidance from detox to aftercare. Atlanta Recovery Place is highly recommended.

Atlanta Recovery offers a variety of outpatient treatment plans, including partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient. This allows patients to recover while going about their daily lives. We integrate a dual diagnosis approach that simultaneously treats addiction and its underlying causes. We follow up with aftercare to ensure residents maintain sobriety while readjusting to daily life. Overcoming opioid addiction is not easy, but Atlanta Recovery provides a comprehensive program that increases your chances of success. Call us today to get the help you need, and look forward to a new, higher-quality way of living.

Addiction doesn’t only hurt the person dealing with the disease. It also has negative effects on the people they are close with. 

Codependency is a common issue in relationships where one or both partners are addicted to drugs. It can be the basis of the relationship, or it can form as the relationship progresses. When codependency happens, both partners need to get help.

This article will discuss addiction and codependency simplified and how both issues can be treated.

What Is Addiction?

Addiction is defined as “a biopsychological disorder characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli despite adverse consequences”. Anyone can be addicted to anything, including drugs.

Drug addiction begins to form when a person builds a tolerance to the drug they are taking. They will need to take more of the drug to get the same effects. 

Over time, they may also begin to experience withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not in their system. They may feel like they have a severe case of the flu and the only way to feel better is to take more of the drug. 

Other symptoms of addiction include:

• Financial troubles
• Mood swings
• Withdrawal from social situations
• The development of health conditions
• Troubled relationship
• Legal issues
• Inability to find enjoyment in the things you once loved

What Is Codependency?

Codependency occurs when one partner in a relationship has extreme physical and emotional needs. The other person becomes so devoted to helping their partner, it begins to negatively affect their lives and their other relationships. It can also enable the partner with the disorder to continue to engage in destructive behaviors. 

Symptoms of codependency include the following:

• Low self-esteem
• People pleasing 
• Caretaking
• Lack of a self of boundaries
• Obsession with the relationship

Codependency can occur in any relationship, but it commonly happens when one or both partners are abusing drugs. And while codependency typically happens with spouses, it can occur in parent-child relationships as well. A child of an addicted or emotionally disturbed parent may feel the need to take on the role of the caretaker in these situations. 

Addiction and Codependency Simplified

Basically, codependency occurs when both partners become dependent on each other. The emotionally disturbed person becomes reliant on their partner to care for them, and the partner builds their life around caring for that person forming their own reliance. 

And while addiction and codependency can be simplified in language, the relationship formed is very complicated. Fortunately, there are ways to get help. 

How To Get Help with Addiction Today

There are many ways to treat addiction and codependency. The first step is to deal with the addiction. This usually requires a multi-course approach that includes detox, therapy, and aftercare. 

A patient allows their body to become free of chemicals in detox and they follow up with required therapy. Then an aftercare program is put in place to ensure they maintain sobriety. 

Family counseling is typically included in a recovery program. Codependency issues are addressed during these sessions. 

There are many rehab centers that offer care for addiction and codependency issues, but Atlanta Recovery Place takes an approach that sets us apart. 

We look at each patients’ situation to work out a therapy plan that works best for them. We use a dual diagnosis approach that treats addiction at its root. We offer partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient treatments.  

Addiction negatively affects a person and the people they love. Don’t let it tear your family apart. Call Atlanta Recovery Place today. We will help you get back to enjoying the happy life you deserve.

Addiction to drugs and alcohol has the potential to severely harm relationships between the one battling substance abuse and the people they care about. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken when the disease of addiction has seemed to sever important relationships in a person’s life, as described by the process mentioned in Step Nine of the Twelve Step Program associated with Alcoholics Anonymous, which encourages program participants to “Make direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.”

What Is Alcoholics Anonymous?

Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA, is an international fellowship of people who have a drinking problem. The program was founded in 1935 by Dr. Bob and Bill W. in Akron, Ohio. AA is self-supporting, nonprofessional, multiracial, apolitical and can be found almost anywhere. Anyone can participate in AA.  

The Alcoholics Anonymous includes a group of principles that are spiritual in nature that are believed to expel the obsession to drink while helping the sufferer from alcohol addiction to become “happily and usefully whole.” This group of principles is called The Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. 

What Are Amends in Addiction Recovery?

Making amends is an important part of the recovery process. Amends are essentially a verbal acknowledgement or admittance of something you have done wrong and asking what you can do to make the situation right again between you and another person. Making amends with others involves mending relationships that were harmed during your addiction.

The action of making amends can help you during addiction recovery as well as encourage sobriety. When you make amends, you are committing to lifestyle changes and a new set of principles and values. People who hurt others during active addiction often find that the issue catches up with them in the future. Sometimes this can be a relapse trigger. Making amends helps to rectify any potential problems with the other person while possibly preventing repercussions that could contribute to relapse. 

Apologizing and Making Amends Are Not the Same

After learning the answer to the question, “What are amends?”, you may wonder how amends are different from apologies. 

Making amends is not the same as apologizing. Apologizing to someone means you acknowledge that you did something that was not right and you tell the other party that you are sorry. Apologizes consist of words but do not necessarily include an associated behavior change. For example, you might have apologized many times to friends or family when you were battling addiction but you didn’t necessarily change your behavior. Many people who battle addiction continually break promises. 

Making amends on the other hand involves more than just words. You not only recognize your behavior verbally to the other person but you also take steps to make things right if you can. Your actions and outward evidence begin to align with your words when you start making amends. 

How Does Alcoholics Anonymous Ensure Long Term Addiction Recovery?

One study by Massachusetts General Hospital looked at the functions and methods of Alcoholics Anonymous in addition to how participants were able to maintain sobriety over time. Researchers found that there were two significant elements of AA that were helpful in long term addiction recovery. The time spent with other individuals who are supportive of one’s efforts to quit drinking is an important factor and the increased confidence the program gives others in the ability to remain abstinent in situations they once struggled are the keys to lasting behavioral change. 

Reach Out to Atlanta Recovery Place Today

If you feel like you are no longer in control of your life or have acknowledged that you have a problem with alcohol, our passionate and experienced rehabilitation experts are readily available and dedicated to helping you end the painful cycle of addiction. Call us at 866-278-6306 or send us a message today to find out how we can help.

Drug addiction is a serious disease. When the body becomes accustomed  The recovery process is no walk in the park. One of the most challenging aspects of drug and alcohol addiction recovery is a post-acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS. 

Many people are unaware of PAWS. If you or a loved one are seeking addiction treatment, getting familiar with this syndrome and learning the answer to questions like “How long does paws last?” can help increase odds of lasting sobriety. 

What Is PAWS?

Withdrawal is a common experience during detox among people who have a dependence on drugs or alcohol. Withdrawal occurs in two stages. The first is acute withdrawal, which typically lasts one to two weeks after use of the substance is stopped. Physical withdrawal symptoms of acute withdrawal often resemble the flu, including nausea, muscle ache, increased heart rate and headache. It is important that detox be done in a supervised setting because dangerous health consequences can occur during acute withdrawal.

The second stage is post-acute withdrawal, which occurs after the initial stage. PAWS is believed to be the brain’s way of resolving chemical imbalances that took place during active addiction. While drug abuse is active, the brain has to make adaptations to make up for changes in the available neurotransmitters in the brain. When drug use ceases, levels of neurotransmitters can change, which may reduce the brain’s ability to deal with stress, causing symptoms. 

The symptoms of post-acute withdrawal tend to involve more emotional and psychological aspects of withdrawal, unlike during acute withdrawal. 

Symptoms of PAWS may fluctuate in severity and can disappear only to reappear later. Some of the most common post-acute withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Hostility
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Limited ability to focus or difficulty concentrating
• Low energy
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Chronic pain that cannot be explained
• Lack of libido
• Difficulty maintaining social relationships
• Obsessive-compulsive behaviors

Other names for post-acute withdrawal syndrome include post-withdrawal syndrome, protracted withdrawal syndrome or prolonged withdrawal syndrome. 

Symptoms of PAWS manifest primarily after withdrawal from opioids, alcohol and benzodiazepines (which are often prescribed for the treatment of panic attacks and anxiety) but have also occurred after the use of other drugs. 

How Long Does PAWS Last?

It is important to be aware of the answer to the question of “How long does PAWS Last?”. PAWS can persist weeks or months after abstaining from substance abuse. PAWS may last as long as two years while the brain continues to recalibrate after active addiction. Although PAWS is a temporary condition, the symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome can be a driving factor in relapse – even in those who are fully committed to staying sober. 

How to Get Help With a Drug or Alcohol Addiction

The first step to overcoming drug or alcohol addiction is making the decision to find help. The next step is getting the right help. At Atlanta Recovery Place, we employ proven, evidence-based methods offered by licensed and credentialed doctors, counselors, and nurses while we focus on long-term recovery. With an understanding that each individual’s recovery journey is unique, we tailor each treatment plan to meet the needs of every patient who comes through our doors. Reach out to us today to talk to one of our compassionate care team members to learn more about the help we can offer you or your loved one.

Cocaine addiction is on the rise. Although the number of cocaine overdose cases were stable from 2009 to 2013, numbers have gone up since then. By 2018, there were two to five cocaine related deaths per every 100,000 people in the United States. 

Cocaine is a dangerous drug but fortunately, there are ways to break addictive habits and improve quality of life. Read on to find out more about cocaine addiction and how to get help. 

What Is Cocaine? 

Cocaine is an addictive stimulant. It is made from cocoa leaves. Cocaine hydrochloride is isolated from the plant and it is often diluted with unnatural substances such as cornstarch, flower baking soda or talcum powder. It is sold on the street in powder form and is usually snorted but it can also be injected or smoked.

Cocaine is commonly referred to as a “party drug”. It’s most popular being used amongst a group of people in a social setting, but this is not to say that people don’t do cocaine alone. What could start off as what is perceived to be “casual drug use” with other people, can certainly turn into a full blown addiction.

Why Is Cocaine so Addictive? 

Cocaine’s addictive properties are due to the chemical reaction it creates in the brain. It increases levels of dopamine, a chemical that is located in the rewards center of the brain. It promotes feelings of pleasure and energy making the body want more. 

People who use cocaine regularly begin to build up a tolerance. That means they need to take more of the drug to experience the same feelings of pleasure. This increases addictive tendencies.  

Cocaine Statistics

Here are some eye-opening statistics regarding cocaine use. 

• Cocaine overdoses are on the rise in the United States. Fatalities rose from 3,822 in 1999 to 15,883 in 2019. 
• According to 2018 statistics, Americans 35-44 years old were most likely to die of a cocaine overdose. 
• Cocaine use is prevalent in black communities. In 2018, the number of black people to die of an overdose doubled as compared to the rate of white people and tripled as compared to the number of Hispanic deaths. 
• In 2018, the rate of cocaine deaths were nine times higher in Northeast urban regions as compared to deaths that occurred in Western rural areas. 
• Cocaine use is problematic among today’s youth. A 2020 study published on Drug Abuse.gov shows that 1.6% of American 8^th graders and 10^th graders and 4.1% of 12^th graders have used cocaine at least once in their lifetimes. 

Getting Help for Your Cocaine Addiction

There are several types of treatments that are available for cocaine addiction, but a more intensive rehab option may be the best place to start. The Atlanta Recovery Place offers evidence-based strategies that will help you overcome addictive behaviors. 

Once checked in, clients are detoxed to eliminate all chemicals from their bodies. This is followed up by therapies that provide coping mechanisms that aim to replace dependence with healthier ways of dealing with stressors. Once inpatient treatment or partial hospitalization is completed, clients are provided with ongoing outpatient care to help them adjust to and maintain sober living. 

Reach Out to Atlanta Recovery Place Today for Help With Addiction

Cocaine is a deadly drug. It can destroy your relationships, your ability to do the things you love, and it can even kill you. A cocaine addiction can commonly start off as casual drug use in a social setting and slowly become more intense. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, contact Atlanta Recovery Place to take the first step in fighting back and increasing your chances of leading a long and fulfilling life.