Is Addiction Treatment Covered By Insurance?

Is Addiction Treatment Covered By Insurance?

The financial toll of addiction is one even the wealthiest of addicts can always bare to afford. Addiction and financial difficulties go hand in hand, which is why for most addicts it could be difficult to afford the care they need to get better.

Fortunately, there are numerous ways to seek financing for treatment. But is there a way to get treatment for free? Does insurance cover substance abuse treatment? Let’s take a look!

Financing Addiction Treatment

Not being able to afford proper care shouldn’t deter anyone from seeking recovery. After all, there are numerous ways in which addicts can seek funding for their treatment.

The majority of treatment facilities offer payment plans that addicts can qualify for regardless of their financial condition. Private funding might also be available to some. 

Government programs are also available to help fund treatment like Medicaid or Medicare. Some states also have programs that provide grants or scholarships to help cover the cost of treatment.

Crowdfunding online, from friends, or family is also a viable option to seek out funding for addiction treatment.

But does insurance cover substance abuse treatment? 

The simple answer is yes, it does. Many health insurance plans cover substance abuse treatment. But there are some nuances you should know before being able to apply.

Is Addiction Treatment Covered By Insurance?

Now that we know that health insurance does cover substance abuse treatment, it’s time we look at the nuances that may come with it. 

Most health insurance plans provide coverage for substance abuse treatment, but the extent of coverage and out-of-pocket costs it may incur can vary. The policy and the insurance provider will be the primary influencing factors in deciding if and how the policy applies when it comes to addiction treatment.

Insurance normally covers anywhere between 30% and 100% of substance abuse treatment after the deductible is paid. 

What if I Don’t Have Health Insurance for Substance Abuse Treatment?

Addiction treatment is listed as an essential coverage category in the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In other words, insurance coverage for addiction treatment is mandatory in the United States.

In America, substance abuse treatment must be covered to the same extent that other medical and surgical treatments would. 

Does insurance cover substance abuse treatment despite you not having a policy when you became addicted? You bet it does!

The Affordable Care Act is also another piece of legislation that protects addicts seeking treatment. Pre-existing conditions are covered under the act. This means addicts can apply for insurance and receive healthcare services, regardless of which stage of recovery they are at.

Therefore, if an addict doesn’t have insurance they are still able to go to the marketplace, seek out a policy, pay a deductible, and get into treatment.

What Type of Substance Abuse Treatment Does My Health Insurance Cover?

While insurance coverage is mandatory, not all plans are created equal. Treatment coverage will be highly dependent on the costs of the facility.

Premium plans will probably foot most of the bill, but their policies and deductibles could come at a higher cost. They may also cover treatment in luxury facilities. However, their basic counterparts might lack some of those benefits.

The best way to find out what your insurance covers is by contacting them directly. An admission counselor in a rehab facility could also help you get a better understanding of what your policy covers. This is if you prefer not to contact the insurance provider directly.

Under the Affordable Care Act, you can change your insurance plan if you are not satisfied with it, although this process may take longer.

At a minimum you could expect the following treatments to be included as part of most policies:

  • Behavioral health treatments such as counseling and psychotherapy
  • Mental and behavioral health inpatient services
  • Substance abuse treatment such as detox and outpatient care

Which Insurance Companies Cover Substance Abuse Treatment?

Substance abuse coverage is not advertised by most providers, making it difficult for patients to understand if they are covered. However, these companies have covered substance abuse treatment in the past:

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Humana
  • Aetna
  • UMR
  • Vela Point
  • Beacon Health
  • United Healthcare
  • Multiplan
  • Geha
  • Cigna
  • CoreSource
  • Gilsbar
  • Anthem
  • Value options

Talking to an Admissions Counselor

Addicts seeking recovery might feel insecure or shy when it comes to calling their insurance company and finding out if they cover substance abuse treatment. 

In such cases, addicts could opt to speak to an admissions counselor that could help guide them in understanding if they are covered or not.

The admission counselors at Veritas Detox have a wealth of expertise when it comes to dealing with insurance providers.

If you are not sure if your insurance policy covers you, then contact Veritas Detox today. Our counselors are ready to help!

How Does a Prescription Pill Addiction Start?

There is a fine line between using medication and abusing it. For this reason, it’s normal to be worried if you or someone you love has just been prescribed an addictive medication.

If you are worried, then it’s justified. In fact, Data shows that every year, up to 16 million Americans misuse prescription pills. That’s close to 6% of the United States population.

But where does pill addiction begin? Let’s take a closer look at where the line gets crossed and what’s the best prescription pill addiction treatment if you or someone you love has crossed it.

Risks of Prescription Pills Addiction

Modern medicine has enabled us to treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions effectively with prescription pills. As long as prescription pills are taken as prescribed, they can be very beneficial to the patient. However, when taken out of order, they could pose a risk of addiction.

Prescription drugs can cause physical dependence and addiction because they activate the brain’s reward center.

Some prescription pills do not pose any addiction risk, while others are highly addictive. There are a number of prescription drugs that are highly addictive, including:

  • Opioids 
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Barbiturates
  • Stimulants

Patients with a history of substance abuse or addiction might also be at greater risk of addiction to prescription pills.

Not only is prescription pill addiction a growing problem in America, but also overdoses. Opioids, mostly synthetic, remain the primary driver of overdoses in the United States; close to 75% percent of all drug-related deaths are caused by them.

Prescriptions Pills

Receiving a prescription for prescription pills could eventually lead to addiction if the medicine is not taken as prescribed. 

Oftentimes, patients become addicted to prescription drugs because they play doctor at home. They do so by medicating on their own terms which can quickly lead to addiction.

In fact, between 21% and 29% of people prescribed opioids for chronic pain end up misusing them. 

Tolerance for prescription drugs can build quickly, leading to dependence and addictive habits in patients who take higher doses more often than necessary. Changing the amount and recurrence of addictive prescription drugs should be discussed with the patient’s primary doctor and never decided by the patient or their family.

Self-Medication

Another factor that can contribute to the development of prescription pill addiction is self-medicating.

Unfortunately, getting prescription pills is sometimes easier than finding other illicit drugs. This is one of the reasons for their widespread prevalence.

People who are dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may turn to prescription pills as a way to cope with their symptoms. Those same people might avoid a visit to the doctor for numerous reasons without realizing the potential risks and consequences of misusing prescription medications.

Peer Pressure

Addiction to prescription pills can also be sparked by peer pressure and the drug culture in America. Prescription pill abuse may be influenced by the portrayal of drug use in popular culture or by friends or family who are also taking them.

Pills like Xanax, Oxycodone, and Adderall are common prescriptions abused in popular culture.

Prescription Pill Addiction Treatment

Fortunately, prescription pill addiction treatment is widely available, just like treatment for other substance abuse disorders. 

If you or a loved one is in need of prescription pill addiction treatment then the first step toward recovery is to consult with a healthcare provider or recovery expert on the most appropriate approach.

Our experts at Veritas Detox can help you or your loved ones get treatment for prescription pill addiction.

Contact us now to get a free assessment of your condition.

How to Go to Rehab Without Losing Your Job

How to Go to Rehab Without Losing Your Job

Have you ever asked yourself “will I lose my job if I go to rehab?” If the answer is yes, then you are not alone.

Not many are able to maintain a career and a job in parallel with their addiction. But for those who have, the idea of going to rehab and sharing that with an employer could be both scary and daunting.

Lies could unfold and the risk of judgment can be very real. But can you lose your job if you go to rehab? Let’s have a look.

The Law on Your Side

In the United States, employees have legal protections that could help them keep their jobs while attending rehab or seeking recovery. There are numerous federal acts that could be in your favor.

Being said that, every employment relationship is governed by a different contract. 

The size of the company you work for as well as local laws could also influence your position. Therefore, it’s always best to check your employment contract and speak to legal counsel prior to taking action. The U.S. Department of Labor could also help you in this process.

Federal Acts That Could Protect You

The Family and Medical Leave Act

In accordance with The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), a person receiving substance abuse treatment from a healthcare provider can take a leave of absence from work. 

The act entitles qualifying employees to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year. However, not all employers are covered. One of the criteria requires that companies have more than 50 employees to qualify. You must also have been with the company for over a year and worked at least 1,250 hours during that period.

One thing FMLA does not cover is missing out on work due to substance abuse. For example, if the patient missed out on work due to their active use.

The Americans With Disabilities Act

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is second on our list and protects employees in a similar way. 

ADA is primarily centered against discrimination in the workplace against Americans with disabilities. This includes those suffering from a substance abuse disorder (SUD). The act applies to all companies with 15 or more employees and any and all government entities. 

However, the act does not fully protect you from being terminated if you are still using and not seeking recovery.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

You’ve probably heard the term HIPAA and/or HIPAA protections before, which refers to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

Like ADA, HIPAA’s legislation is geared toward discrimination in the workplace due to medical conditions. In this case, the act indicates that employers can’t use medical information to discriminate against you.

The caveat with HIPAA is that employees need to be qualified to do their job and not be in  breach of contract. Some employers might have specifics discussing the use of illegal drugs in their contracts which could then place the addict at risk of termination. 

The act also protects you from having your employer share your medical information with others. Therefore, you need not fear office gossip or employers sharing your condition with others.

The Rehabilitation Act

The rehabilitation act protects employees seeking treatment as long as their employer receives federal grants, aid, or contracts. The only exception to this is if the employee’s conditions prevent them from safely carrying out their job duties.

How to Go to Rehab Without Losing your Job 

Can you lose your job if you go to rehab? The answer might be more complex than just a simple yes or no. But with so many protections against you, the odds are certainly in your favor. 

Fears of risking your job and career shouldn’t keep you from seeking recovery.

Now that you know the answer to the question “will I lose my job if I go to rehab?” you might want to find a rehab that can support you and guide you when it comes to employment.

Veritas Detox has a team of experts in-house that can support you and guide you through the recovery process. 

Contact us today and ask one of our admission counselors how you can go to rehab without losing your job.

How Isolation Fuels Opioid Addiction

How Isolation Fuels Opioid Addiction

Humans are social creatures, we thrive on connection. So much so that connection itself has been labeled the opposite of addiction. Naturally, isolation then becomes detrimental to recovery and an accelerator of the progression of an addict’s obsession.

But how are opioids and isolation related? Let’s explore!

Isolation and Addiction 

One doesn’t have to look too far to appreciate the link between addiction and connection. Drugs like MDMA, alcohol, marijuana, heroin, and cocaine create feelings of bonding in users which helps them connect with each other.

In fact, drugs like MDMA are being studied to be used as treatments for mental health such as couples therapy. 

A great example of this is the claims made by many alcohol abusers when it comes to needing a drink to be social. In fact, socializing after recovering from addiction could be one of the most challenging behavioral changes a recovering addict needs to adapt to.

Isolation is a developing problem in American society that has been expanding in parallel with addiction. Research shows that the size of our social networks is decreasing and with that the number of people in which we can trust and confide. 

At the same time, addiction and overdoses have also seen a significant increase, particularly when it comes to opioids.

In recent history, we can examine the effects of the pandemic lockdowns in America and their link to addiction. 

Overdoses have increased sharply since the onset of COVID-19, which could probably be related to the periods of isolation we’ve had to collectively experience during lockdowns.

But is there scientific evidence connecting opioids and isolation? Indeed, there is, and it goes much farther back than you might assume.

How a Rat Paradise Changed the Way We See Addiction

The link between opioids and isolation has been long documented by medical scholars.

In the 1970s scientists carried out the Rat Park studies, a series of experiments that examined the link between addiction and connection by self-administering morphine.

In short, the experiment demonstrated that isolated rats were prone to addiction and overdose. Whereas the rats who were in a large housing colony and with enough space for play and mating appeared to be less interested in the morphine water.

Unfortunately, scientists originally interpreted housing as the primary cause for addiction and not connection. However, new interpretations point now toward the latter.

How Isolation Fuels Opioid Addiction 

As it was demonstrated by the Rat Park studies, opioid addiction, and isolation are closely related. But the scientific evidence that we now have extends beyond the walls of Rat Park.

There is evidence to show that the endogenous opioid system contributes significantly to the formation and maintenance of social bonds. 

Furthermore, there is also evidence to show that some of the neurological pathways affected by opioid addiction overlap with each other. Thus strengthening the link between opioids and isolation.

In other words, the same areas in our brain that are associated with social bonding are also closely related to opioid addiction. Thus, showing a physiological link between one and the other.

Connection and Recovery

If isolation and addiction are related, then it would also make sense that recovery and connection are also closely linked to each other. That connection can be observed in the success of 12-step programs and group therapy. 

These methods of recovery are established on connection. Addicts get to connect with each other by sharing mutual experiences, bonding, and sponsorship, which helps them build connections and get sober.

Understanding the link between addiction and connection could single handedly help make a shift in a recovering addict’s psychology and make a shift for the better.

Connection in Rehab

One of the main advantages of joining a rehab for recovery is the connections that addicts are able to foster early on their journey. Many rehabs offer therapy treatments that focus on connection and bond building.

Veritas Detox is a rehab where we value the significance of connection.

It’s time to stop isolating yourself.

Contact us today and find out how we can extend a lending hand.

What Does Dual Diagnosis Mean?

What Does Dual Diagnosis Mean?

You’ve probably come across the term dual-diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder when it comes to addiction treatment. But you might be unfamiliar with what it actually signifies.

So what does dual diagnosis mean in mental health? And how can we treat it? Let’s examine it!

What Does Dual Diagnosis Mean in Mental Health?

The terms dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders are almost interchangeable. But what does dual diagnosis mean in mental health?

A dual diagnosis refers to the coexistence of a mental health disorder and a substance abuse disorder affecting a patient simultaneously. When a dual diagnosis is present, both disorders exacerbate each other making it difficult for patients to heal.

For example, an addict suffering from depression might take drugs to feel better. The drugs in turn depress the addict requiring them to take more of the drug to feel well again.

This vicious circle can turn out to be the reason why many addicts are not able to properly treat their condition.  Co-occurring disorders tend to be treated in parallel as healing one without the other will likely end up in the patient suffering from the heal disorder again.

If the rehab center they attend does not offer holistic treatment that treats both conditions, then it’s unlikely that the addict will be able to remain sober for long.

Studies have shown that individuals with a dual diagnosis are more likely to experience certain challenges compared to those who only have one disorder such as:

  • Have severe symptoms of depression
  • Relapse over and over again
  • Have a lower quality of life
  • Attempting to take their own life

A study showed that attempted suicide rates for addicts with depression were:

  • These rates are twice as high as those for addicts who develop alcoholism before depression
  • The rates are three times higher than for people with depression alone
  • Nine times higher than those who only developed alcohol use disorders

The risk of suicide is the most troubling risk of co-occurring disorders and one that must not be ignored.

What’s a Substance Use Disorder 

A substance abuse disorder (SUD) is a mental health disorder caused by the abuse of drugs or alcohol. To put it simply, it’s the medical term for an addiction.

The disorder could be caused by both substance abuse and substance dependence. Two conditions that are similar but not exactly the same.

When a patient is said to abuse a substance he or she might be experiencing a milder form of dependence, which is mostly psychological. The dependence is characterized by an obsession with drugs or alcohol that has not developed into a physical form of dependence.

On the other hand, a patient suffering from substance abuse dependence will be physically dependent on the substance. That means that their bodies have gotten used to having the substance in their system and will react negatively when the system releases the toxin. These symptoms are called withdrawals and they could be deadly if not treated adequately. 

Substances that are often misused and cause SUD may include:

  • Alcohol
  • Tobacco
  • Opioids
  • Cocaine
  • Stimulants
  • Marijuana
  • Hallucinogens
  • Prescription drugs

What are Mental Health Disorders 

The other side of the dual diagnosis equation is a mental health disorder. There are numerous mental health disorders that can cause a dual diagnosis, and although the term dual refers to two conditions, there is no limit to how many disorders a patient can suffer from.

In fact, many patients can experience a number of disorders at the same time, a complex situation that requires extensive therapy.

Some of the most common mental health disorders that an addict can experience include:

  • Major depression
  • Dysthymia
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Panic disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

The United States has a high rate of mental health disorders. According to a study conducted in 2020, nearly 9% of Americans suffer from psychological illnesses. Almost nine million Americans suffer from mental illness.

Integrated Treatment 

Mental disorders and substance abuse were often treated separately. Nevertheless, most recovery programs now treat both disorders in parallel as a result of new advancements and a better understanding of their relationship.

Now that you know what dual diagnosis means in mental health, you are ready to take the next step!

If you or someone you love is suffering from a dual diagnosis then it’s critical to seek professional help.

Veritas Detox offers dual-diagnosis treatment options and co-occurring disorder testing to all of our patients.  Our holistic approach to addiction helps addicts get well regardless of their condition.

Contact Veritas Detox today and ask us about our dual-diagnosis treatment today!

10 Facts About Prescription Pills

10 Facts About Prescription Pills

Not sure what to think when it comes to prescription pills? Are you getting mixed opinions on the topic?

Truth can at times be stranger than function, but there is no better way to separate myth and fiction than getting down to the nitty gritty. 

Here are ten facts about prescription pills that you don’t want to miss.

Prescription Pill Addiction Facts 

1 – Prescription Pills Can Be Addictive

Advances in modern medicine have gifted us with the efficacy of prescription pills that are able to treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions. 

When taken as prescribed, prescription pills can do a lot of good for the patient. However, when taken out of order, they could pose a risk for addiction.

Prescription pills might also pose a greater risk of addiction in patients that already have a history of substance abuse or addictive behaviors.

2 – Not All Prescription Pills Are Addictive

Some prescription pills don’t pose any risk of addiction, others are highly addictive. The most addictive prescription pills include:

  • Opioids
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Barbiturates
  • Stimulants

3 – Prescription Pill Addiction Is a Growing Epidemic

In the United States, there is a growing problem with prescription pill addiction which claims the lives of thousands of Americans every year.

It’s estimated that more than 14 million people or close to 5% of the US population misuse prescription pills each year.

That number has been on the rise and it’s now nearly three times as much as it was in the 90s.

4 – Prescription Pill Overdoses Are a Leading Cause of Death

Nearly a million people have died of drug overdoses since 1999, a staggering numbering for a condition that can be both treated and prevented.

The number of overdoses has also nearly doubled since 2016 going from 52,000 to 106,000 in 2021. In perspective, that’s more than the number of deaths caused by diabetes in the same year.

Opioids—mainly synthetic— remain the primary driver of overdoses making up 75% of all drug-related deaths. 

5 – Withdrawals Can Be Severe and Deadly

Withdrawal symptoms from prescription pills could lead to the passing of the addict if not properly cared for, particularly when it comes to drugs like opioids.

Severe symptoms caused by withdrawals include seizures, tremors, pain, nausea, excessive sweating, anxiety, depression, and irritability.

Pharmacological detox is available and effective for those who seek it. If you or a loved one is experiencing withdrawals from prescription drugs then you should seek medical prescription pill help immediately.

6 – Recovering From Prescription Pill Addiction Is Possible

Prescription pill addiction can be devastating. Yet, despite the challenges presented by it, recovery is possible. 

Those who seek prescription pill help through support, treatment, and commitment can overcome their addiction and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

7 – Prescription Pill Addiction Requires Professional Help

Beating an addiction to prescription pills on your own could be both challenging and dangerous. 

Addiction to prescription pills is a complex issue that requires professional help to be resolved. Treatment options may include therapy, detox, rehab, medication, and support from friends and family members.

Don’t be shy to ask if you need prescription pill help, support is readily available.

8 – Prescription Pills Can Be Obtained With Ease

Unfortunately, getting your hands on prescription pills might at times be less complicated than finding drugs. Which is one of the reasons behind their prevalence and widespread use.

There are a number of ways in which an addict might get their hands on prescription medical pills including:

  • Lying to a doctor
  • Getting them from friends
  • Stealing them from family members
  • Acquiring prescriptions from corrupt medical personnel

9 – Prescription Pill Addiction Can Ruin your Life

Prescription pills might not have as bad a stigma as other illegal drugs, but they can be just as destructive. 

Not only can prescription pills take away the life of the addict, but they can also have other serious consequences including:

  • Loss of health
  • Cause pain and trauma to friends and family
  • Financial loss
  • Cause mental health issues and co-occurring disorders
  • Irreparable damage to career
  • Broken relationships

10. Veritas Detox Can Help With Prescription Pill Addiction 

Veritas Detox offers prescription pill help and treatments to all of our patients.  

We treat addiction and mental health disorders with holistic treatments that can help you and your loved ones get better.

Contact Veritas Detox today and ask about our prescription pill help treatments today!

Are There Different Types of Bipolar Disorder?

Are There Different Types of Bipolar Disorder?

Throughout the past decade, the term bipolar disorder has been popularized, causing many people to misinterpret and misunderstand this serious condition.

Contrary to popular belief, bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that can last for months at a time.

But is that all there is to bipolar disorders? And are there different types of bipolar disorder? 

Let’s have a look!

What Are Bipolar Disorders

An individual with bipolar disorder experiences extreme mood swings as well as lows and highs emotionally.

The extremes are associated with manic episodes of high energy and low episodes of depression.

Manic and Depressive episodes

The best way to understand bipolar disorders is by familiarizing yourself with both ends of the episodic extremes. Symptoms of mania and depression are on opposite ends of the emotional spectrum. 

Maniac symptoms are characterized by excessive energy and excitement, while depressive symptoms are characterized by low energy and sadness.

Symptoms of Manic Episodes 

Different types of bipolar manic symptoms include:

  • Abnormal levels of wired and upbeat energy
  • Agitation and the need for increased activity
  • An exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence
  • Restlessness and lack of sleep
  • Racing thoughts and being easily distracted

Symptoms of Depressive Episodes

Different types of bipolar depression symptoms include:

  • Being sad, hopeless, and joyless
  • Loss of interest on things
  • Emotional numbness
  • Drastic changes in weight and appetite
  • Sleep imbalances
  • Loss of energy
  • Inability to think or focus
  • Suicidal thoughts

Types of Bipolar Disorder

The four main types of bipolar disorder are as follows:

  • Bipolar I disorder: It is the most common of the different types of bipolar disorder. Patients fall into this category when they’ve had at least one or more manic episodes that last for at least one week. In addition, the episodes that the patient experiences are so severe that hospital care is needed.
  • Bipolar II disorder: The second category involves different types of bipolar depression symptoms as well as hypomanic episodes. However, the episodes tend to be less severe than the maniac episodes of those in the first category.
  • Cyclothymic disorder: Like the others, this category is also defined by different types of bipolar depression and hypomanic symptoms; unlike the others, the symptoms are not intense or persistent long enough to be considered episodes.
  • Other types of disorders: This category includes any bipolar disorder that doesn’t fit within the previous three categories but still involves unusual maniac moods such as those related to alcohol and drug use.

Dual Diagnosis

A dual diagnosis occurs when a patient is suffering from addiction and a co-occurring mental health disorder.

Co-occurring disorders tend to exacerbate each other making it difficult for the patient to get well without treating both conditions at the same time.

Bipolar disorders can co-occur with addiction. In fact, both conditions are closely related.

A  study carried out shows that 61% of bipolar type I disorder patients had a lifetime use of drugs or an alcohol disorder. Addiction can aggravate different types of bipolar depression placing the life of the patient at risk.

How To Get Help

If you or someone you love is suffering from both addiction and bipolar disorder then it’s critical to seek professional help.

Bipolar disorders and addiction can exacerbate each other making it extremely challenging for an addict to get well on their own.

Veritas Detox offers dual-diagnosis treatments to all of our patients.  We treat addiction and mental health disorders at their core with holistic treatments that can help you or your loved ones get better.

Contact Veritas Detox today and ask one of our admission experts how to get the help you and your loved ones deserve.

How Does Sober Living Work?

How Does Sober Living Work?

Data shows that up to 85% of recovering addicts relapse and return to treatment within the following year. 

Unfortunately, the odds are not stocked up in favor of sobriety, which reinforces the need for recovering addicts to do everything within their power to improve their chances.

It is critical that recovering addicts find themselves in a safe and supportive environment when it comes to preventing relapse. This is where sober living comes into play.

But does sober living work? Let’s take a look!

How Does Sober Living Work

Sober living is a housing program for addicts in recovery that provides continuous care after rehabilitation treatment. The intent is for the program to serve as a transitional home for recovering addicts.

In general, applicants stay for about 90 days to a year, but they may stay longer if they have a compelling reason. Most sober living houses have a zero-tolerance policy which means recovering addicts could get evicted if they are found to be using drugs and alcohol.

It is also forbidden to engage in sexual relations and sexual advancements within the sober living community could lead to eviction.

The facilities are supervised, so a few other rules apply to sober living.

  • Applicants must detox and be sober prior to joining
  • They must attend group 12-step meetings in the facility
  • They must all contribute to the maintenance of the household
  • Must be accepted by the rest of the sober living community
  • Must pay dues owed to the facility
  • Must submit itself to random alcohol or drug screenings

How Does a Sober Living House Work

Sober living homes are supportive housing facilities where addicts can live during their transition to sobriety. They are also known as transitional living or recovery residences. The facilities offer an alcohol and drug-free environment for people in recovery.

There are different types of sober living available including 

  • 12-Step sober living
  • Sober living apartments
  • Sober dorms
  • Re-entry sober programs
  • Transitional housing
  • Halfway houses

A sober living house typically has a positive atmosphere. In addition to having green spaces and peaceful surroundings, they are staffed with peers who are supportive and counselors who offer counseling services 24/7. 

They also provide luxurious accommodations. In fact, some of the best sober living houses offer wellness-oriented environments that can almost feel like a staycation.

Then how does a sober living house work? By being a shelter and a support structure that helps addicts on their road to recovery.

Who Does Sober Living Work for?

Sober is not a requirement for every addict seeking recovery or every person out of rehab. The program does offer benefits to almost every recovering addict, but many can do without it.

Then who does sober living work for?

  • Recovering addicts whose living environment is not conducent of sobriety
  • Recovering addicts who need more accountability
  • Recovering addicts who have relapsed multiple times
  • Recovering addicts with an addictive partner
  • Recovering addicts who had difficulties in rehab

Does Sober Living Work?

In a study examining the results of sober living, residents improved in terms of alcohol and drug use, arrests, psychiatric symptoms, and employment. 

The same study shows that residents were able to maintain improvements after leaving the sober living home.

Does Sober Living Work for Me or My Loved Ones?

Now that you know more about how sober living works you might be compelled to join a sober living house. While no treatment is one hundred percent certain to work, evidence shows that the odds will be in your favor if you do.

What’s the next step then? Seek help! 

Veritas Detox offers sober living home and aftercare programs that can help you and your loved ones get sober and stay that way.

Contact Veritas Detox today to learn more about our sober living programs.

How Does Heroin Impact the Body?

What are the Signs of Heroin Use?

Heroin is a highly addictive drug that can have devastating effects on the body. By learning more about its effects and how they affect the body we can help those around us who might be in need.

But what does heroin do to your body exactly? Let’s take a look.

What Does Heroin Do To Your Body

Heroin acts on the user’s pain and pleasure system by taking over opioid receptors and flooding the brain with dopamine. 

The high potency of the drug causes psychological and physical dependence—making it extremely difficult for users to muster the strength they need to seek help and get sober.

Heroin’s effects on the body can be divided into three main categories. 

  • Short-term effects
  • Long-term effects
  • Withdrawals

Let’s examine each category to see how they differ from each other and in which ways they can affect people abusing heroin.

Short-Term Effects of Heroin In The Body 

The short-term effects of heroin use on the body occur mainly when the user is under the influence of the drug and just after the high has worn off. 

Consistently exposing the body to these short-term negative effects can eventually lead to long-term harm and possibly even death.

Heroin short-term heroin effects on the body include:

  • A warm flushing of the skin
  • Dry mouth 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Severe itch
  • A heavy feeling in the extremities
  • Slow heart function
  • Slow and/or heavy breathing

If the person using heroin experiences a slow heartbeat and a slowed down breathing they must immediately seek out medical help. These symptoms could lead to heart failure, coma, or permanent brain damage.

Long-Term Effects of Heroin In The Body 

After prolonged use heroin addicts could suffer from long-term effects of heroin in the body. These symptoms might not be noticeable right away, but with time the warning signs from the body will begin to manifest.

Over time, the body builds tolerance, prompting users to take higher doses to achieve the same level of euphoria. Not only can this cause the users to overdose but it can also accelerate the decay of their bodies and the magnitude of their conditions.

One of the most dangerous long-term heroin effects on the body is brain damage. Severe neuronal and hormonal damage in the brain from long-term heroin use can be irreversible, and so can the damage that heroin causes to the liver.

Given some of the long-term effects of heroin on the body are irreversible, it’s best not to wait for the symptoms to show up to act. But rather, take action and seek sobriety as early as possible.

Other long-term heroin effects on the body include:

  • Constipation
  • Loss of teeth
  • Respiratory problems
  • Memory loss
  • Weakened immune system
  • Muscular weakness
  • Collapsed veins
  • Insomnia
  • Risk of contracting diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C
  • Miscarriage
  • Scabs

How Does Heroin Impact the Body During Withdrawals 

The appearance of withdrawal symptoms in an addict is the greatest telltale of physical dependence to any substance. Withdrawal symptoms are adverse effects that occur when the addict stops taking a drug abruptly. 

Heroin withdrawal symptoms tend to cause a great deal of pain and suffering in the addict and could be deadly if not managed properly.

If someone you love is experiencing withdrawals from heroin then it’s vital that they are taken into medical care or detox, as their well-being could be at risk.

Common symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:

  • Excessive flow of tears
  • Muscle aches
  • Tremors
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dilated pupils
  • Eye discomfort in bright lights
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Autonomic hyperactivity
  • Irritable moods
  • Depression and suicidal thoughts
  • Anxiety

What to Do When You Spot Heroin Abuse Symptoms

Now that you know more about what heroin does to your body you might be better prepared to identify them in those around you.

But what should you do if someone you care for is suffering from heroin addiction?

It is vital that you act quickly if you know someone for whom heroin abuse is a problem.

You may want to look out for additional evidence such as drug paraphernalia which can include needles, pipes, small zip-lock bags, or burnt aluminum paper.

If you do find further evidence of abuse, then you should seek out professional help immediately.

How to Get Help Today

Our addiction experts at Veritas Detox can help you or your loved ones navigate the storm and find calm waters. Our holistic treatments, professional staff, and luxurious facilities offer the best chances of sobriety.

Contact Veritas Detox today and ask one of our admission experts about the next steps to get the help you or your loved ones need today.

What Are the Signs of Heroin Use?

Heroin use has been a problem in America since the drug was prescribed as a medicine for pain in the early 1900’s.

 

The drug has remained popular throughout history and it’s likely that it will not go away despite law-enforcement and governmental efforts to eradicate its use.

 

Identifying heroin addict symptoms and signs of heroin use can help us recognize if the epidemic has hit close to home. It can also allow us to extend a helping hand to the people we love who might be in need.

Signs of Heroin Use

Because heroin is highly addictive, it causes both psychological and physical dependence, making it extremely difficult for users to get clean and sober.

 

The effects of heroin can be devastating, both mentally and physically, and they have even been known to cause death in some cases. 

 

Identifying and responding to heroin use signs in others could mean the difference between life and death for addicts.

 

The first step towards helping someone who is using drugs is to identify the symptoms of addiction.

 

Psychological signs of heroin use

When opioids are used and abused, the flood of dopamine in the brain interferes with normal brain functions, causing several psychological problems.

 

Psychological signs of heroin use can be split into two main categories:

  • Behavioral
  • Cognitive

Behavioral Symptoms

A simple way to identify heroin use is to look for odd behaviors. Addicts under the influence of heroin exhibit an array of behavioral changes that can be identified even by those who might not be familiar with the addict.

Heroin abuse behaviors may still be apparent even after the addict has sobered up.

Slurred speech and skin picking, for example, are both odd behaviors associated with heroin addiction during and after use.

 

A great way to identify these odd behaviors is by peeking into the addict’s daily routines. Subtle changes in their routines could tell us a wider story. 

 

The sudden change of friends or disappearance of a beloved relative could indicate heroin use, for instance.

 

Other behavioral heroin addiction symptoms to look out for include:

 

  • Involvement in crime
  • The disappearance of personal value objects
  • Bursts of anger or disturbance
  • Increased anxiety
  • Lack of care about one’s appearance
  • Change of clothes to cover needle scabs or bruises
  • Changes in mood
  • Depressive moods and loss of interest

Cognitive Symptoms

This category is related to conscious activities, such as thinking or reasoning. Cognitive changes are most prevalent while the user is under the influence of heroin.

 

Cognitive heroin addict symptoms include – 

 

  • The inability to make sound decisions
  • Being disoriented
  • Lack of focus
  • Being impulsive
  • Talking nonsense
  • Drifting in and out of sleep

Physical Signs of Heroin Use

Heroin abuse does not only affect the mind. There are also physical symptoms associated with heroin addiction. Physical heroin addict symptoms can range from chapped lips to displaying symptoms of serious illness such as liver failure.

 

In general, heroin users will start to lose weight and start showing signs of physical fatigue. It will also be possible to see bruising and scabs on the skin. 

 

The occurrence of scabs is not only a result of injections but can also be a result of anxiety-induced skin picking. Scabs and bruises are most common in areas of intravenous access such as the arm, and fingertips.

 

Other common physical heroin addict symptoms include –

 

  • Dry mouth
  • Weight loss
  • Runny nose
  • Dilated pupils

What to Do If Someone You Know Is Using Heroin

If a loved one or someone you know shows signs of heroin use it’s important to get help.

 

You may want to look out for additional hints such as drug paraphernalia that can include needles, pipes, small zip-lock bags, or burnt aluminum paper in the trash. 

 

While heroin smell doesn’t tend to linger around, sensing a vinegar-like smell in clothes or personal areas could also be an indicator of a person smoking heroin.

 

If you worry that this is the case then you must seek professional help immediately, acting promptly and decisively.

 

Veritas Detox offers heroin detox and inpatient rehab services that can help your loved ones get the help they need to get sober.

 

Contact Veritas Detox today and ask to speak to one of our admission representatives who can better help you determine the next steps in helping those you love.