Provive Wellness understands the delicate nature of seeking treatment for an addiction or mental health disorder. The process can seem overwhelming. Those seeking help can face numerous barriers on their journey to recovery. We understand the intricacies of navigating the multitude of treatment options available and offer support throughout the process. Please find answers to some of the most asked questions below and give us a call to discuss any topics not covered in this section.
Substance Use Disorder, commonly known as an addiction, is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with an addiction abuse substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences. Prevention efforts and treatment approaches for a substance use disorder are as successful as those for other chronic diseases.
The Signs that someone has an addiction or is using a substance can have several symptoms. Some common symptoms include:
- Impaired and blurred speech and/or coordination
- Enlarged or reduced pupils and/or bloodshot eyes
- Changes in physical appearance (sudden weight loss or gain) or personal hygiene
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing
- Drastic changes in mood including hyperactivity or depression
- Disinterest or lack of engagement in relationships, hobbies, or work
- Loss of coordination
- Overdose and/or death
- Confusion or disorientation
- A distorted perception of reality
Developing an addiction can escalate slowly or very quickly depending on the individual and the substance. An addiction can start from recreational use or from prescribed medications which lead to the development of a habit. The risk of addiction and how fast you become addicted varies by drug. Some drugs, such as opioid painkillers, have a higher risk and cause addiction more quickly than others. As time passes, you may need more of the substance to achieve the same effects as before. This can progress until you may need the drug just to feel “normal” or function daily. As your drug use increases, you may find that it is increasingly difficult to go without the drug. Attempts to stop drug use may cause intense cravings and make you feel physically ill. These are common withdrawal symptoms.
If you or a loved one has a problem with abusing a substance or a mental health concern, please contact an Provive Wellness treatment specialist at (610) 947-0800. Your treatment specialist can provide information on a treatment program that meets your individualized needs and guide you through the admission process.
Withdrawal describes the various symptoms that occur after a person abruptly reduces or stops long-term use of drugs or alcohol. Physical symptoms of withdrawal may include irritability, restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, mood swings, seizures, vomiting, and hot or cold flashes.
A medically monitored detox may last anywhere from five to twelve days. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms may last for months or even a year after discontinuing the use of a substance. The length of withdrawal and symptoms vary with the type of drug. While a medically monitored detox is the first step in treatment, it should be coordinated with a residential stay of some length as relapse occurs frequently in the first thirty days of abstinence.
A mental health inpatient stabilization program may last anywhere from one to thirty days or longer depending on the severity of the episode, diagnosis, and medication management. This can be influenced heavily on whether the stabilization is voluntary or involuntary.
Detox and stabilization programs should be accompanied by outpatient services including partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and individual counseling programs. While detox and inpatient treatment act to stabilize an individual, the outpatient levels of care are where long-term healing and treating the underlying issues that lead to the addition or mental health issue is addressed.
Studies have found that treatment programming of three months or longer have higher success rates. The longer time spent in a treatment program or continuum of services will lead to more time developing skills, practicing techniques, building social supports, reducing stressors, and addressing underlying issues that initially led to an addiction or mental health disorder. Giving the individual a greater chance of recovery and positive treatment outcomes.
Relapse occurs when a person returns to using a substance after abstaining. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) formally defines relapse as “the recurrence of behavioral or other substantive indicators of active disease after a period of remission.”1 Relapse does not happen suddenly. It is a process that occurs over weeks or months. People are at risk of relapse if exposed to different risk factors. More risk factors mean a higher relapse risk. Relapse is considered a normal part of the recovery process. People might go through one or more relapses before they succeed.
American Society of Addiction Medicine. “Public Policy Statement on Relapse in Healthcare and Other Licensed Professionals.” American Society of Addiction Medicine. April 12, 2011.
The greatest benefit of outpatient treatment is the continuity of care that can lead to more successful treatment outcomes. This may include more time abstinent, less relapses, higher quality of life, more meaningful interactions with friends or family, greater fulfillment or purpose, and healing of underlying issues. Outpatient programming additionally offers these benefits:
Flexibility: Outpatient treatment allows individuals to continue their daily duties while receiving care. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals and those with family obligations.
Privacy: Since outpatient treatment does not require an overnight stay, it can be more discreet, allowing individuals to maintain their privacy.
Support System: Outpatient treatment enables individuals to stay connected with their loved ones, which can be a significant source of support during recovery.
Individualized Care: We understand that each person’s journey to recovery is unique. Our outpatient programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Insurance is often accepted for addiction and mental health treatment. Insurance coverage will vary according to each treatment program and policy. Provive Wellness accepts most insurance policies and will help you explore your options to find a treatment program if your policy does not cover treatment.
Provive Wellness maintains licensure with the state to provide all its services which must meet strict standards based on the highest quality of care. Our professional staff maintain all necessary personal licenses and/or certifications required for their position. Provive Wellness additionally is a member of the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) as well as the Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA) illustrating our commitment to providing the highest qualities of care.
Provive Wellness offers a comprehensive treatment program utilizing evidence-based treatment modalities in a trauma informed manner. Provive offers personalized care through innovative treatment tailored to you. Our holistic approach helps our clients get the results they need by addressing the biological, psychological, spiritual, and social components of their lives to achieve optimal wellness in the mind, body, and spirit. Our supportive staff understands the challenges of overcoming a substance use or mental health condition and provide support every step of the way with years of experience.