Coping With Compulsive Thoughts and Behaviors Unrelated to Substance Misuse

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Individuals in treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) experience compulsive thoughts. In most cases, these thoughts focus on substance misuse, cravings, or past trauma. However, in some cases, compulsions are entirely unrelated to substance misuse. For example, process addictions like gambling — heavily connected to compulsions — can interfere with a person’s mental health during and after treatment. Newport Beach Recovery Center uses evidence-based therapies to help clients cope with compulsions and intrusive thoughts during rehabilitation.

What Are Compulsive Thoughts and Behaviors?

Compulsive thoughts can cause mild to severe emotional distress. In most cases, they involve repeated intrusive thoughts or an obsession with a specific activity. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that a person . . . feels the urge to do in response to an obsessive thought.” In many cases, the behaviors are irrational or unnecessary. However, they bring emotional relief to people who do them. For example, someone with a germ phobia may compulsively use hand sanitizer anytime they touch a public surface.

Some examples of common compulsions include:

  • Repeatedly checking locks before going to bed or leaving the house
  • Excessive hand washing
  • Counting, often in specific increments
  • Repeated tapping or other fidgety movements
  • Thinking or speaking a repeated word or phrase

Compulsive thoughts and behaviors can involve almost any idea, thought, or behavior, and they do not always cause severe distress. However, individuals with SUD and co-occurring mental health issues have a higher risk of developing maladaptive behaviors related to compulsions. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and process addictions are common dual diagnoses. Side effects of severe compulsions can interfere with recovery and increase the risk of relapse.

The Dangers of Non-Chemically Addictive Compulsions

Non-addictive compulsions can affect a person’s ability to function. Additionally, non-addictive compulsions sometimes lead to physical dependency and mental addiction if left untreated. The seemingly innocent nature of non-addictive compulsions makes them dangerous for individuals in recovery. Some people may find themselves replacing substances misused with “safer” alternatives that end up causing the same disruptive behavioral issues.

The dangers of non-addictive compulsions include:

  • Increased risk of dependency
  • Relationship issues caused by obsessive preoccupation with the compulsion
  • Decreased focus on recovery

Non-chemically addictive compulsions can become addictive behaviors if you do not monitor them and learn to recognize warning signs. According to Frontiers in Psychiatry, “[C]ompulsive behavior can be understood in terms of persistent patterns of failed decision-making.” You can protect yourself from harmful side effects by learning to problem-solve and make healthier decisions. Treatment programs like the ones offered at Newport Beach Recovery Center provide essential skill development and trauma therapy. Our methods can help you overcome compulsions and avoid adverse side effects.

Warning Signs of Dangerous Compulsive Thoughts and Behaviors

You might require additional mental health treatment if compulsions interfere with your ability to function or threaten your sobriety. Below are some warning signs that might indicate you need help coping with compulsions:

  • Frequent bad judgment calls
  • Difficulty making good choices
  • Obsessive thoughts, behaviors, or routines
  • Thinking, saying, or doing something to avoid anxiety or compulsions
  • Frequently make changes to your routine to accommodate the compulsion
  • Relationship issues caused by obsessions and compulsions

If you notice one or more of the signs listed above, you should talk to someone on our mental health team. In some cases, compulsions can worsen symptoms of SUD.

Internet, Phone, and Computer Addictions

Process addictions and compulsions involving technology have become more commonplace within the last few decades. Almost everyone owns multiple smart devices that control many aspects of their life. Unfortunately, it can be easy to fall into harmful routines involving smart devices. Compulsive behaviors that feature technology can include:

  • Online gambling
  • Gaming
  • Doomscrolling
  • Social media
  • Pornography
  • Excessively tracking the news

Almost any behavior can turn into a compulsion. If you find yourself spending an excessive amount of time doing any one thing on your smart devices, you might want to reach out for mental health assistance. Phones, computers, and gaming devices can be locked during specific time periods, giving you an easy way to avoid the issue. In addition, during treatment at facilities like Newport Beach Recovery Center, you will have less access to these devices, which can help you establish healthy boundaries with technology and the internet.

Treating Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders During Recovery

Individuals with SUD have a higher risk of developing co-occurring mental health issues like OCD. Compulsions, intrusive thoughts, and addictive behaviors can complicate your treatment and ongoing recovery. At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we offer evidence-based treatments for individuals with dual diagnoses. Our team will ensure you learn vital coping skills to help you avoid developing process addictions or disruptive compulsions. Simultaneous and integrated treatment can provide relief from mental health symptoms during rehabilitation. If you are in aftercare or early recovery, we can provide you with programs and services to help you stay on track if you begin to experience compulsions.

Compulsive thoughts and behaviors can indicate co-occurring mental health issues like obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, compulsions are also a symptom of substance misuse, and many people recovering from SUD struggle with these thoughts and behaviors. It’s important to seek help that will examine your mental health comprehensively. Treatment programs at Newport Beach Recovery Center care about treating all your co-occurring mental health problems. We can provide you with the tools and essential skills to manage compulsions. You can maintain positive mental health and sobriety by practicing mindfulness and other coping techniques. To learn more about our services and programs, call us today at (888) 850-0363. We can help you heal and find healthier ways to cope with compulsive thoughts and behaviors. 

How Meditating in Nature Can Improve the Mind-Body Connection

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Long periods of substance abuse can cause physiological changes that interfere with your ability to process specific experiences and emotions. In addition, symptoms of substance use disorder (SUD) may cause you to feel off balance. SUD can make it challenging to connect thoughts and emotions with your body’s reactions. Spending time in nature can help you relax and stabilize your mental health, allowing you to make more progress in treatment. Newport Beach Recovery Center offers several mindfulness-based therapies to strengthen your mind-body connection. Practicing these therapies outdoors or in a natural setting can increase the benefits.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Nature

Many people incorporate nature into various aspects of their recovery. In recent years, outdoor therapeutic modalities like adventure or recreational therapy have become more common. Research has shown that even virtual simulations of nature, including videos, sounds, and images, can positively impact your mental health. 

According to a 2020 study in the Journal of Addiction, “[V]iewing nature has similar benefits to [mindfulness-based techniques] in the treatment of stress and negative mood.” The care team at Newport Beach Recovery Center collaborates with clients to find therapies that work for their unique needs. Our team encourages people to spend time outdoors as a way to enhance the effectiveness of talk therapy.

Reducing Your Risk of Relapse Through the Mind-Body Connection

Taking care of your physical and emotional wellness will help you heal faster. Mindfulness meditation can reduce your risk of relapse during early and ongoing recovery. Being out in nature lets you focus your thoughts on the present moment and increases self-awareness. Self-awareness can help you recognize when something feels off and reduce your risk of relapse by doing the following:

  • Encouraging regular self-care
  • Helping you connect specific thoughts with physical reactions 
  • Improving overall fitness and physical wellness 
  • Increasing mindfulness

Many activities — including outdoor yoga, deep breathing, and relaxation exercises — improve general health and self-awareness. Activities like outdoor meditation are an excellent way to reduce the risk of relapse and learn essential coping skills. 

The Mind-Body Connection and Mindfulness 

Mindfulness means looking at each moment as it comes and accepting it without judgment. Acknowledging sensations and thoughts without focusing on them can help you become more aware of your mind and body. In addition, being mindful of body movements, breathing, muscle tension, and thoughts will strengthen your mind-body connection. The mind-body connection increases mindfulness by doing the following: 

  • Improving focus 
  • Reducing stress 
  • Increasing self-awareness 

Mindfulness is essential in recovery because it keeps you from focusing on intrusive thoughts, cravings, or compulsions. It also allows you to remain fully present in your surroundings.

The Effect of Nature on Your Health

Spending time in nature improves physical and mental health. According to research by the National Park Service (NPS), “Physical activity in a green space can improve cognitive control, short and long-term memory, and overall brain function.” Spending time out in nature does the following: 

  • Boosts the immune system
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • Improves mood and reduces symptoms of mental health disorders 
  • Increases energy
  • Improves sleep
  • Reduces the risk of heart disease

Even viewing images or videos of nature can positively affect a person’s health. Apps incorporating nature sounds or videos have many of the same emotional benefits as spending time in nature. Regularly spending time in nature can have a calming effect on your mind and body. You can also reduce the symptoms of mood disorders by being outside in environments like forests, beaches, or oceans. 

Enhancing the Mind-Body Connection in Nature

Combining meditation and low-stress exercises in a natural setting can help you heal from the damaging physical side effects of substance abuse. Some everyday outdoor activities that will help you heal include: 

  • Mindful walking, meditation, or yoga
  • Light exercise including walking, biking, hiking, jogging, or swimming 
  • Group activities like rock climbing, horseback riding, or boating 
  • Camping and spending the night outdoors

Newport Beach Recovery Center is located only 140 yards away from the beach. We have a wide range of beautiful locations nearby, including state parks and hiking trails, where you can enjoy nature. Our team also hosts regular group outings to provide a new setting for clients to practice essential skill development. Rather than keeping you entirely isolated, we teach you to handle your mental health in real-world settings.

Aftercare and Maintaining Positive Mental Health

You can incorporate outdoor activities like meditation or mindful walking into your everyday routine during aftercare. Maintaining positive mental health is easier when you take advantage of resources like local nature spots. You can even use time outdoors to connect with family or friends by making it a group activity that benefits everyone. Activities like camping, hiking, and even walking your dog can improve your mind-body connection if you practice mindfulness techniques. Being able to center yourself and remain self-aware will help you cope during challenging moments in aftercare. 

Nature-based therapies and activities can improve your mental health and overall well-being. Science has shown that even minimal exposure to natural environments can benefit your health if you struggle with depression or anxiety. Spending time in nature makes it easier to become more aware of your body and how your thoughts affect your behavior. Improving your mind-body connection can help you recognize problem behaviors before they develop into maladaptive habits. Newport Beach Recovery Center encourages clients to take advantage of alternative, holistic therapies like adventure therapy or yoga. We can help you heal from the effects of substance abuse. To learn more about our services and programs, call our office today at (888) 850-0363.

How Does Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Work?

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Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines therapies and prescription drugs to help individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) avoid severe withdrawal symptoms that may interfere with their recovery. At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we offer MAT alongside other evidence-based treatment methods. Prescription drugs can increase the quality of life for individuals attending treatment for disorders related to opioids or alcohol. MAT is a safe way to ensure clients can focus all their energy on healing and recovery during rehabilitation.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

MAT incorporates a range of treatment methodologies including psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, prescription medications, and alternative holistic therapies to help people with SUD establish and maintain sobriety. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “The prescribed medication operates to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative and euphoric effects of the substance used.” MAT provides relief from physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal caused by chemical changes in the brain. The medications help clients to retain the energy, focus, and motivation they need to heal from the effects of SUD. With MAT, some clients can thrive in their recovery.

What MAT Medications Do We Offer at Newport Beach Recovery Center?

Newport Beach Recovery Center tests and assesses every client to determine if they would benefit from MAT. Then, we decide which medication would provide the most significant relief. We use FDA-approved MAT drugs, including:

  • Buprenorphine
  • Naltrexone
  • Vivitrol
  • Suboxone

Every treatment plan takes into account personal, religious, and cultural preferences regarding the use of medication drugs to assist with the rehabilitation process. We only use MAT when strictly necessary and never make prescription medications a mandatory part of recovery for clients. MAT can significantly improve the treatment outcome for individuals struggling with substance abuse related to alcohol and opioids. The drugs limit psychological cravings and chemical changes affecting thought patterns during detox and withdrawal.

Who Benefits Most From MAT?

The individuals who will benefit most from MAT abuse high doses of very addictive substances. Individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD) are especially vulnerable to severe acute withdrawal symptoms and side effects. MAT is not a cure for SUD, and it does not entirely eliminate cravings or other symptoms of withdrawal. According to the previously mentioned research by SAMHSA, individuals with OUD were most likely to benefit from MAT. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that MAT decreases the risk of dangerous side effects related to opioid misuse. In addition, “Some medications may also reduce the risk of subsequent overdose.”

Clients who benefit most from MAT may check the following boxes:

  • History of substance misuse involving opioids or alcohol
  • Repeated relapses while in recovery for OUD or AUD
  • Co-occurring health issues that may make withdrawal from alcohol or opioids dangerous
  • AUD that has not responded to psychotherapy
  • Pregnant

What Can You Expect From MAT?

MAT requires the care team to closely monitor clients when prescribing and dispensing prescription drugs. Clients must undergo regular testing and check-ins to ensure they remain healthy. In many cases, clients slowly taper off the medication over the course of months or years, and during that time, they experience minimal cravings or physical symptoms. Individuals who abuse alcohol may experience discomfort if they drink during treatment or recovery due to the side effects of MAT drugs. The uncomfortable sensations caused by drinking reinforce abstinence and positive lifestyle changes.

MAT does the following:

  • Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms
  • Lowers the risk of relapse and overdose
  • Improves the effectiveness of therapy
  • Provides better treatment outcomes

During MAT, clients attend weekly therapy sessions to help them heal and address underlying issues contributing to the SUD. Medication management may also be part of the treatment process to ensure that clients receive the correct dose of medication, on time, throughout their rehabilitation. Regular testing is necessary to ensure they remain on track in their recovery.

Does MAT Require Residential Treatment?

MAT does not require residential treatment. Clients in residential, partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP), and outpatient programs may benefit from MAT. We tailor each treatment plan to meet the client’s needs and ensure they have the resources required to continue healing at every level of care. Clients participating in MAT will be monitored closely and expected to comply with the recommendations of their care team regarding tapering schedules and other details of medication use. The process can take a long time. However, MAT often contributes to long-term positive outcomes for clients recovering from SUD.

Medication-assisted treatment decreases the risk of relapse or overdose by limiting the effect of withdrawal symptoms related to substance use disorder. MAT is a safe and practical choice for many individuals in recovery. Clients with alcohol or opioid-related SUD may benefit from prescription drugs designed to treat the symptoms of those conditions. MAT helps individuals with severe SUD feel comfortable enough to focus all their energy and motivation on recovery from their disorder and treating underlying issues. Medications stabilize brain chemistry and allow clients to focus their thoughts on healing and building new routines. Newport Beach Recovery Center uses MAT to complement other methodologies like psychotherapy and behavioral therapies. We believe these traditional therapies combined with specific MAT can help certain clients achieve and maintain sobriety.  to learn more about our treatment programs and the services we offer, call us today at (888) 850-0363. 

5 Ways to Practice Mindfulness in Daily Life

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“Mindfulness is a way of being present: paying attention to and accepting what is happening in our lives. It helps us to be aware of and step away from our automatic and habitual reactions to our everyday experiences.”

– Elizabeth Thornton

The effect of substance abuse can change how your brain interprets the world around you. Treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) usually includes mindfulness exercises or therapy to help you connect with your thoughts and feelings. According to research published in PsychOpen, “Mindfulness can be defined as attention to and awareness of the present moment.” Newport Beach Recovery Center uses mindfulness therapy and exercises to encourage self-growth and increase self-awareness in individuals recovering from SUD.

What Is Mindfulness?

Being mindful means having full awareness of yourself and the world around you without trying to classify what you feel or think. Mindfulness is truly being in the moment and accepting your internal and external experiences without judgment. According to Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, “Mindfulness . . . has proven to be beneficial across a diverse group of psychological disorders as well as for general stress reduction.”

Mindfulness can be incorporated into almost any activity or mental exercise, making it excellent for every level of care during rehabilitation. The increased self-awareness provided by mindfulness makes it a perfect way to improve self-efficacy and encourage a more positive self-image. How you think about yourself and others will impact the trajectory of your recovery. Mindfulness allows you to focus on how you feel in the moment without putting pressure on yourself to act or think in a certain way.

Health Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindfulness has been a central part of Buddhist philosophy for approximately 2,500 years. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), “Many people who practice mindfulness report an increased ability to relax, a greater enthusiasm for life, and improved self-esteem.” Meditation and mindfulness have become more prevalent in the last few decades, and now almost every facility that treats SUD offers some form of mindfulness-based therapy.

Other known health benefits include:

  • Decreased stress
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Reduced symptoms of chronic pain
  • Improved immune system response

In addition to physical health benefits, mindfulness also offers mental health benefits. The benefit becomes even more noticeable with mindful meditation.

Mindful Meditation Heals the Mind-Body Connection

The mind-body connection grows stronger when you practice mindfulness every day. You can retrain your brain to focus on the world around you when you begin to feel stressed. In addition, meditation also makes it easier to focus and utilize coping skills. During mindfulness meditation, your body will naturally feel more relaxed, and symptoms of anxiety or depression often decrease. According to the National Center for Complimentary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), “[T]raining in meditation and mindfulness practices can change brain activity” and support positive mental health.

5 Helpful Mindfulness Techniques

You can use mindfulness techniques in your day-to-day life to improve your overall well-being. Below are five ways you can incorporate mindfulness into your routines. You can work with your therapist to determine which method will benefit you the most.

#1 Mindful Actions

You can use mindfulness to make almost any action more meaningful. Usually, mindful actions require the following:

  • Focusing on a single aspect of the activity
  • Maintaining awareness of thoughts and bodily sensations without trying to control them
  • Remaining judgment-free while allowing yourself to feel whatever emotions accompany the activity

#2 Mindful Thinking

Also called radical acceptance, mindful thinking involves letting yourself be completely in the moment and experiencing your thoughts without judgment. You may tune into a single idea, belief, mantra, or mental image. Many people practice mindful thinking while meditating to decrease distractions and allow the mind and body to achieve a state of relaxation.

#3 Grounding Exercises

For people prone to dissociation, staying present can feel impossible. Grounding exercises keep you present, and they activate specific regions of the brain that can help decrease stress and anxiety. Standard grounding techniques include:

  • Scanning your environment and cataloging the sensations you intake
  • Focusing on a single sense and using it to explore the environment around you
  • Describing an object in extreme detail (e.g., look, texture, temperature, shape, smell)

#4 Muscle Relaxation Exercises

Sometimes your body reacts physically to mental stress. Muscle relaxation exercises involve focusing on tensing and relaxing specific muscle groups, usually starting at one end of your body and working your way to the other. This allows you to release tension. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has some excellent instructions for relaxation exercises that can help you focus and feel calmer.

#5 Be Mindful of the Moment

Pay close attention to the people, places, and things around you. Be mindful of the moment and allow yourself to absorb the experience. You can do this in treatment, alone at home, or in a crowded public space. Giving yourself permission to focus on nothing except that single moment in time can feel free and reduce overall stress.

Mindfulness can help you cope with stress, anxiety, depression, symptoms of a substance use disorder, and other conditions. The mental and physical health benefits of mindfulness increase over time and can last for a significant period. This makes them ideal for relapse prevention and stress relief. Mindfulness can also take many forms, and the versatility of the exercises makes them an excellent tool for rehabilitation and ongoing recovery. Additionally, most of them you can do anywhere at any time. You can collaborate with the care team at Newport Beach Recovery Center to create treatment and aftercare plans that incorporate mindfulness-based therapies and holistic alternatives like yoga or meditation. To learn more about the treatment programs and services offered at Newport Beach Recovery Center, contact our office today by calling us at (888) 850-0363. We can help you improve your overall health and recover from the damaging effects of SUD. 

Why Is Talk Therapy Essential to Recovery?

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Many treatment programs consider psychotherapy, also called talk therapy, a cornerstone of addiction treatment due to its inherent versatility. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Psychotherapy can be an alternative to medication or can be used with other treatment options, such as medications” to help clients manage the symptoms and side effects of substance use disorder (SUD). Newport Beach Recovery Center uses individual and group therapy alongside other evidence-based treatment methodologies.

Understanding Talk Therapy

Talk therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses guided discussions and other therapeutic techniques to provide you with emotional relief. Additionally, the modality helps you develop essential skills for achieving and maintaining positive mental health. Talk therapy can take many forms, including:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
  • Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)
  • Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR)

Psychotherapy requires a collaborative relationship between the care team and the client — you. At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we assess every client to ensure you have a truly personalized treatment plan and periodically monitor your progress to ensure you feel comfortable with the direction of treatment.

Benefits of Talk Therapy

Your mental health will directly affect your treatment outcome. We personalize all individual and group therapy sessions at Newport Beach Recovery Center to ensure you have the best possible outcomes. Peer support is an essential part of our treatment. Group talk therapy provides a stabilizing influence and allows peers to interact with one another in a safe and controlled environment, discover shared goals, and heal together.

Talk therapy benefits you in the following ways:

  • Allows you to better connect with your emotions
  • Provides a safe space for processing trauma
  • Increases self-awareness and self-efficacy
  • Lowers stress and encourages positivity
  • Helps identify and address issues related to your recovery

All of these benefits can help your recovery from SUD. They can also assist you if you have a dual diagnosis. Moreover, therapy offers you neurochemical and neural benefits.

Physical and Mental Health Rewards of Talk Therapy

Psychotherapy can cause noticeable changes in how various regions of the brain function. According to Frontiers in Psychology, CBT and other forms of psychotherapy can lead to “long lasting, reproducible changes in emotion, cognition, behavior, and somatic symptoms across a range of mood and other psychological disorders.” Talk therapy can lower the risk of relapse by decreasing stress and limiting the adverse effect of chemical changes in the brain associated with SUD.

Activities and Exercises Used in Talk Therapy

Everyone responds differently to treatment, and we use comprehensive assessments to determine what therapeutic modality will work best for each client. For the best results, we implement a collaborative, person-focused approach to treatment. We want to ensure all clients feel accepted, validated, safe, and supported during rehabilitation. Additionally, we may combine multiple methodologies during therapy sessions to achieve a specific goal.

Some standard exercises and activities you may encounter during talk therapy include:

  • Identifying, analyzing, and challenging your irrational thoughts or behaviors
  • Practicing mindfulness and meditation to restore and strengthen your mind-body connection
  • Exposing yourself to uncomfortable thoughts or feelings to allow for reprocessing of traumatic events
  • Learning breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques that reduce your stress, anxiety, and depression
  • Avoiding confrontation or re-traumatization through alternative talk therapy methods like EMDR

Therapists and counselors use the tools at their disposal to tailor treatment plans and therapy sessions to the unique needs of each client. Everyone has different motivations and goals for their recovery. We will use whatever talk therapy method aligns best with your desired outcome.

Why Talk Therapy Works

The techniques used in talk therapy are effective because they open up a dialogue and challenge irrational or maladaptive beliefs. Recovering from SUD requires healthy lifestyle changes and the ability to maintain positive mental health. Your emotional and physical well-being depends on your ability to cope with stressors and establish coping skills. Talk therapy can improve those essential skills. Mental health professionals will provide you with an emotional tool kit that helps you overcome challenges. Psychotherapy can also improve objectivity and problem-solving skills, allowing you to work through issues you encounter more quickly during treatment and aftercare.

Continuing Talk Therapy During Aftercare

Many people find talk therapy incredibly helpful and continue to attend individual or group sessions during aftercare. Psychotherapy can reduce the risk of relapse in your early recovery and assist with the transition from structured treatment to independent sobriety. You may want to consider making it a central part of your aftercare. This is especially true if you want to acclimate smoothly and maintain abstinence after completing rehabilitation. Therapists can play a significant role in the support system you build to support your ongoing recovery.

Talk therapy is an important tool for overcoming issues related to substance use disorder. Research has shown that psychotherapy can effectively treat SUD and related mental health disorders when used alongside medication and other supportive treatments. Talk therapy provides a safe and judgment-free space where you can talk about your thoughts, feelings, and goals for treatment and recovery. The wide range of methodologies ensures that there is a form of talk therapy to address trauma and other issues that you may struggle with during treatment and recovery. Our team uses talk therapy alongside a range of other treatments to ensure you have the best outcome possible. We believe that everyone who attends treatment can benefit from attending some form of talk therapy. To learn more about Newport Beach Recovery Center and the various therapies we have to offer, call our office today at (888) 850-0363.

What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)?

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Many people who withdraw from substances find themselves struggling with post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Most commonly, this occurs in complex scenarios where a person has used substances for a long period at a high frequency. Otherwise, it could occur when multiple substances are used at once.

What Is PAWS?

PAWS, also called protracted withdrawal, affects some people with substance use disorder (SUD). Undoubtedly, the condition can impact their ability to function during and after treatment. The lingering effect of certain substances on the brain can significantly influence behavior, thoughts, and cognition.

According to the Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, “Unlike acute withdrawal, which has mostly physical symptoms, post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) has mostly psychological and emotional symptoms.†The effects can lead to complications during rehabilitation that may require an extended period of treatment. The care team at Newport Beach Recovery Center uses evidence-based methods to help clients address and manage symptoms related to SUD, including PAWS.

How Does PAWS Affect Recovery?

PAWS causes extended symptoms of withdrawal that can last for weeks or months. According to the online article “Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)†by the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, “It is estimated that 90 percent of recovering opioid users experience the syndrome to some degree as do 75 percent of recovering alcohol and psychotropic abusers.â€

Symptoms of PAWS

Some substances have a more profound effect on the brain and body, causing extended symptoms that can leave affected individuals feeling on edge, emotionally overwhelmed, or disconnected from their recovery. PAWS manifests differently for everyone, and clients may experience mild, severe, or intermittent symptoms. Sometimes, PAWS can entirely disappear and reappear many months later.

A few of the most common side effects of PAWS include:

  • Unusual irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Memory issues
  • Difficulty learning new tasks, concentrating, or problem-solving
  • Anxiety or panic
  • Depression or apathy
  • Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
  • Sleep disturbances

PAWS directly affects mental health, and clients often benefit from a combination of individual therapy, peer support, and prescription medication. Clients with PAWS have a lower stress threshold, and symptoms may reappear or worsen during moments of high stress. We offer treatments that provide stress relief, relapse prevention strategies, and essential coping skills. Individuals with PAWS can use those resources to continue healing during symptom flare-ups during ongoing recovery.

What Are Common Risk Factors for PAWS?

Post-acute withdrawal can happen to anyone. The severity of symptoms can differ depending on multiple factors. Most people experience issues with emotional regulation and mood swings. Some individuals may have an increased risk of PAWS if they have a history of mental health disorders, current co-occurring mental health issues, or have very little emotional support. Individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) have a higher risk of experiencing PAWS.

The Impact of PAWS on Physical and Mental Health

PAWS causes physiological changes in the brain. Neurotransmitters affected by substance abuse may have difficulty communicating, which leads to emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. The syndrome affects everyone differently depending on various factors, including age, genetics, family history, and co-occurring issues. Anyone can be diagnosed with PAWS. However, some individuals may be predisposed to developing the syndrome due to the substances they abused or certain environmental and biological factors. Medical and mental health professionals cannot predict who will experience protracted withdrawal symptoms.

How Is PAWS Treated?

Treatment programs usually address the symptoms of PAWS using a combination of therapy and medication. The condition is unique to each individual, which makes it essential to have a personalized treatment plan.

Common treatments for PAWS include:

  • Psychotherapy and counseling
  • Peer support
  • Prescription medication

At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we use various assessments to determine how best to approach the treatment of PAWS and other conditions.

How Can You Cope With PAWS During Ongoing Recovery?

Recovery is not a linear process. Many people find themselves falling back into old behaviors or experiencing symptoms of SUD during moments of high stress. Treatment is not a cure for SUD. Instead, it provides a stabilizing influence and prepares clients to overcome challenges related to recovery.

Clients can reduce the impact of PAWS on their recovery by doing the following:

  • Using their support system and not being afraid to ask for help
  • Practicing self-care and improving overall health by making lifestyle changes
  • Being mindful of emotional health and prioritizing mental health
  • Using coping skills to decrease the negative effect of everyday stressors
  • Strengthening the mind-body connection and paying attention to physical cues that indicate stress

Clients diagnosed with PAWS can benefit from having realistic recovery goals. Therapy, peer support, and other resources can provide motivation and inspiration for continued healing and recovery. Living with PAWS requires determination and a desire to make lasting positive changes. The treatment programs at Newport Beach Recovery Center can help clients achieve their goals by learning essential coping skills.

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome results from changes to the brain caused by prolonged substance abuse or other factors. In many cases, individuals with PAWS have co-occurring mental health issues that increase their risk of developing the condition. Some side effects can include more severe withdrawal symptoms and symptoms that reappear after weeks or months. Clients may experience prolonged issues with mood swings, depression, anxiety, difficulty focusing, and other mental health complications that can interfere with the effectiveness of traditional rehabilitation treatment. At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we use personalized care plans and evidence-based methods to help clients recover from substance use disorder and cope with related issues, including PAWS. Our care team has decades of combined experience assisting individuals in overcoming challenges related to treatment and ongoing recovery. To learn more about our programs, call our office today at (888) 850-0363.

How Do Rehabs Prepare Clients for the Next Level of Care?

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Newport Beach Recovery Center has multiple levels of care. We believe it is helpful to have clients work with the same dedicated team throughout the various treatment programs. To ensure high-quality care, we use comprehensive assessments and monitor client progress to determine when someone is ready to transfer to a different level of care. 

Individuals with more severe substance use disorder (SUD) may require the full continuum of care. In contrast, clients with mild symptoms may benefit from participating in a short-term outpatient program. Everyone responds to recovery and treatment differently. We have highly personalized care plans to ensure that every client gets the help they need to make noticeable progress. 

What Is the Continuum of Care at Newport Beach Recovery Center? 

We offer multiple high-quality treatment services and programs at Newport Beach Recovery Center, including: 

  • Detox
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
  • Withdrawal management
  • Residential 
  • Partial hospitalization (PHP)
  • Intensive outpatient (IOP)
  • Outpatient
  • Sober living community

We designed our programs to help clients through specific stages of the recovery process. Clients may attend one or more of the programs. Some individuals may need to go through several different levels of care before they feel confident in their ability to maintain sobriety independently. We believe everyone deserves access to high-quality care to help them develop essential skills for maintaining long-term sobriety. 

With this in mind, we assist clients through transitions between levels of care. Our team educates them on what will change, how it may affect their treatment plan, and their recovery goals. We take steps to ensure that clients feel comfortable relying on their support system before they make the transition between programs or out of treatment. This includes peers, staff, and their loved ones. 

Why Are Multiple Levels of Care Necessary? 

Many people worry that when they return home, they will go right back to repeating unhealthy behaviors. By slowly making the transition, clients feel more confident in their ability to maintain sobriety. The continuum of care we offer at our facility ensures clients grow to trust the team responsible for their care. Individuals who attend our treatment programs build strong bonds with peers and our team.  

We monitor each client during the various stages of treatment to ensure their emotional and physical well-being. The tailored treatment plans we offer also ensure that each program they participate in will positively affect their recovery. Multiple levels of care provide essential tools that clients can incorporate into their daily lives to help them manage their recovery successfully. 

How Do Clients Know When to Transition? 

Clients collaborate closely with the clinical team to determine when to transition to the next level of care or out of treatment. In some cases, clients encounter setbacks that may cause them to repeat specific programs or get referred out to a specialized program before returning to complete rehabilitation at Newport Beach Recovery Center. We support our clients and alumni through the entire continuum of care and consider their personal goals when making treatment decisions. 

Below are some indicators that someone may need a different level of care: 

  • Loss of motivation or ambivalence
  • Decreased effectiveness of therapy 
  • Increased self-awareness and steady progress 
  • A substantial change in the severity and number of symptoms

If an individual notices these traits in themselves, they can discuss this with their care team. Additionally, we train staff members to recognize these signs. Should a staff member recognize these indicators, they will address the need for change with the patient.

Does Support Change at Different Levels of Care? 

Each level of care focuses on a specific stage of recovery to enhance the effectiveness of treatment. As clients move through the different programs we offer, they will have less structure to help them practice utilizing their coping skills in the real world. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Services are based on a continuum [of care], starting with the least restrictive services that require less time and participation, to the most restrictive services that require more time and participation.” Our facility’s most structured programs include: 

  • Residential
  • Detox
  • Withdrawal management
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

Mandatory check-ins, drug tests, and therapy attendance make these programs effective. Lower levels of care include intensive outpatient, outpatient, and our sober living community, where clients must maintain their own ongoing recovery with minimal supervision.  

The amount of support our clients receive during each level of care does not change even if the structure of the treatment becomes less formal. We are always here to provide encouragement, resources, and assistance to clients at every stage of their recovery. Correspondingly, we tailor the services we offer each client to ensure they address any underlying issues or co-occurring conditions that might affect treatment. Newport Beach Recovery Center provides clients with all the tools they need to continue healing and progressing in their recovery goals. 

Newport Beach Recovery Center offers multiple levels of care to help our clients make steady, observable progress in their recovery from substance use disorder. We provide a full continuum of treatment services, including detox and withdrawal management, residential treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and a sober living community. We also assist with the transition between programs by offering transportation to and from the facility and support services to ensure the comfort and safety of our clients. Newport Beach Recovery Center provides personalized treatment plans that focus on preparing individuals in recovery to maintain independent sobriety. We use educational classes, therapy, peer support, skill development, and other resources to ensure clients feel prepared when they complete our programs. Clients collaborate with our care team to create achievable goals. To learn more about our programs, call us today at (888) 850-0363.

What Happens to Clients Who Repeatedly Relapse?

A man standing in front of a window.


Some individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) have a more difficult time achieving and maintaining sobriety, and they may worry about attending treatment at Newport Beach Recovery Center if they have a history of relapse. We believe that people should not stop receiving treatment because they display symptoms of the disorder. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “More than anything, relapse may be a sign that more treatment or a different method is needed.” We work with clients to ensure they have access to personalized treatments. In cases of chronic relapse, we may refer clients to another program or facility that better addresses their needs. 

What Are Our Policies About Relapse? 

A relapse consists of physically abusing a substance after a period of abstinence. Most people who relapse use the substance more than once before anyone finds out about their actions. The choice to physically relapse indicates something missing from the therapeutic process. In some cases, it may also indicate that the person is not ready to actively engage in treatment and they may require a different approach. 

We can alter the client’s treatment plan to address whatever underlying issue led them to fall back into maladaptive behaviors. Therapy, medication, and other treatment methods can help clients overcome ambivalence, cope with stressors, and establish healthy relapse prevention strategies. We believe in holding individuals accountable for their actions. However, we will never withhold help from people recovering from SUD. 

Relapse and the Community

Our policies and procedures involving relapse are designed to support the entire community of individuals in recovery at Newport Beach Recovery Center. We provide clients who relapse or feel in danger of relapse the following:

  • Additional emotional support 
  • A behavioral agreement that involves abstaining during treatment 
  • Education and skill development
  • Increased monitoring including drug testing 

Relapse is not a moral failing and it is not inevitable. Clients can take steps to prevent emotional or physical relapse. Our policies include client discharge in cases where they are disruptive, repeatedly relapse, or make no effort to change. We understand that ambivalence is a normal part of recovery. However, clients who actively work on their recovery can avoid relapse by openly communicating their needs and asking for help when they need it.

If you feel a desire to misuse substances during treatment, talk to your care team. They can help you cope with cravings or intrusive thoughts. We can provide you with additional support and resources to ensure you have all the tools you need to maintain your recovery. 

Rejecting a No-Tolerance Policy

We do not have a no-tolerance policy regarding relapse. However, we prioritize the health and safety of each client and our care team. We consider how our decisions will affect everyone at Newport Beach Recovery Center, including the staff and management team. Ultimately, we have a solution-focused response when someone relapses or begins to feel ambivalent about treatment. In order to decrease the risk of relapse, we believe in identifying and addressing the root cause of those feelings.

What Can You Do to Avoid Relapse During Treatment? 

You can lower your risk of relapse by taking care of your mind and body. Regular meals, quality sleep every night, staying hydrated, remaining active, and participating in therapy all contribute to your overall wellness. A clear mind and healthy body will increase your stress threshold and lower your risk of relapse. According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), some of the most common factors that contribute to relapse include: 

  • Decreased self-efficacy
  • Lack of coping skills or adaptability 
  • Ambivalence
  • Loss of motivation 
  • Not enough emotional support 
  • Intense cravings 
  • A belief that substance misuse will provide emotional relief

The rehabilitation programs at Newport Beach Recovery Center address all of these issues. Clients have access to a dedicated care team, personalized support, and therapeutic services designed to stop these factors from impacting their treatment and sobriety. 

When Do We Refer Clients to Another Level of Care? 

We refer clients to a higher level of care if they relapse multiple times, and it becomes apparent that our program does not meet their needs. Clients may be referred to another facility for a short period and then transition back into one of our programs when they feel more confident in their ability to maintain sobriety during treatment. Our care team will collaborate with the client to ensure a smooth transition and decrease any stress related to transferring between levels of care. A physical relapse does not always mean instant referral, and we respond to these slip-ups on a case-by-case basis.

Everyone faces unique stressors and challenges during their recovery. Cravings and other symptoms may intensify during moments of acute stress causing a compulsion to relapse. At Newport Beach Recovery Center, we believe that relapse or slipping back into old behaviors does not indicate any kind of moral failing. Our program can help you reprocess past traumas, establish healthy routines, develop essential life skills, and practice relapse prevention strategies. You are not your diagnosis. However, it will continue to affect you until you work through the underlying issues that have stopped you from healing. We can give you the tools you need to recover from substance use disorder. You are not destined to relapse, and we can help you find healthier coping techniques to manage your symptoms. To learn more about our treatment programs and the services we offer, call our office at (888) 850-0363. 

How Can Families Encourage Healthy Accountability?

A woman sitting at the table with food and drinks.


If your loved one struggles with substance use disorder (SUD), you may feel tempted to give them leeway for mistakes they made in the past or moments of relapse in the future. Your loved one will benefit from you holding them accountable for their actions rather than receiving blanket forgiveness. Without the motivation of accountability, your family member may have difficulty maintaining sobriety. Newport Beach Recovery Center provides resources and support to families who want to boost their loved one’s recovery. 

Why Is Accountability Important?

Accountability ensures that the person you care about experiences the consequences of harmful actions. You may feel guilty for not letting your loved one brush away their mistakes. However, recovery requires self-awareness and a desire to make positive life changes. Holding people accountable isn’t meant to be a punishment. In fact, without the motivation of personal accountability, your loved one may not want to actively participate in treatment. To heal, they need to process the underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse, which requires a desire for change.

Accountability does the following: 

  • Lets your loved one know you care about them and their actions 
  • Ensures that your family member remains self-aware about the possible consequences of their behaviors 
  • Provides you with an open line of communication that encourages honesty 

Your loved one will face many challenges during recovery, and you can help them continue making improvements without pressuring them. You must point out when they begin to cross certain boundaries. Holding them accountable and also informing them of how their substance abuse affects your life may be the motivation they need to attend treatment and heal from SUD. 

What Are the Benefits of Holding Someone Accountable? 

Holding someone responsible for their actions can improve family dynamics by opening up a line of honest communication between family members. Accountability aims to ensure everyone thinks through the consequences of their actions, including your own. Holding your loved ones accountable for their actions also requires you to practice self-accountability and model positive behaviors. Mistakes are learning moments, not something you should use to belittle, judge, or blame. Accountability can do the following:

  • Promote self-empowerment and ownership of behaviors 
  • Improve family bonds and create healthy boundaries
  • Reduce stress and create a more nurturing home environment 

How Can You Encourage Healthy Accountability?

If you want to support your loved one’s recovery, you can help them build off what they learn during rehabilitation. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “[T]reatment focuses on developing personal accountability and responsibility.” During treatment, they will learn how to recognize, process, and regulate emotions in a healthier way. The skills will allow them to cope with stress and conflict. You can encourage them to continue growing and building these skills by informing your loved one what the result will be if they cross a boundary or begin to revert to maladaptive behaviors.  

Holding your loved one accountable for their actions does not mean blaming them, judging them, or looking down on them. Instead, it is a two-way street that involves healthy boundaries, uplifting comments, and encouragement. You should be willing to accept the consequences for your own mistakes. Hold yourself as an example of how to use those moments for self-improvement. Families can encourage accountability by setting reasonable and consistent expectations that every member of the family respects.

Why Does Accountability Work? 

Nobody likes to feel judged or lose something they hold dear because of personal choices. Accountability does not involve judging or blaming. However, it has a similar effect which can give your loved one a reason to look at their behaviors and act more cautiously in the future. By making it clear that you prioritize their mental health and physical well-being, you can show them support while also providing them with a reason to look back at mistakes made while under the influence as negative moments in their life. 

Showing encouragement and celebrating their successes in recovery will create positive associations. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Motivation is the key to substance use behavior change.” Other benefits for your loved one include: 

  • Better self-efficacy and self-awareness 
  • Increased positivity and improved mental health 
  • Reduced risk of relapse and a stronger support system

Showing that you care about your family member’s well-being will also increase their self-esteem and confidence in recovery. Many people use family relationships as a motivator. Ultimately, you can help your loved one by making it clear that you support them while holding them accountable for their actions. The entire family can benefit from practicing honest and open communication about how actions can affect the family unit. 

You want to protect your loved one from pain or heartache. However, if they do not have to face the emotional pain and other consequences of their choices, they may never find a reason to change. Holding your loved ones accountable for their actions and sobriety can give them the motivation they need to move forward and heal from substance abuse. You can also improve your own self-awareness by practicing self-accountability and modeling healthy behaviors for your loved one. You can be a part of their support system. Offer assistance in the form of consistent consequences for breaking boundaries or backsliding into unhealthy behaviors. Your loved one can grow and become a better version of themselves if they learn from past mistakes and avoid repeating them. To discover more about Newport Beach Recovery Center and the programs we offer, call us today at (888) 850-0363.

Impact of Guilt and Shame On Child Mental Health

A young boy with long hair and wearing a plaid shirt.


Many people feel shame and regret about choices made while struggling with substance misuse. As a parent, you may feel bad about how you treat your children or the ways you may not have provided the best living environment. Children are able to pick up on negative emotions even if you try to hide them. The shame and guilt can undeniably impact their mental health, sense of self-worth, and ability to cope with stress. 

According to the National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare (NCSACW), “Approximately 8.3 million children live with one or more adult who is dependent on alcohol or needs treatment for illicit drug abuse.” Newport Beach Recovery Center offers family support services, family therapy, and skill development to help parents recover from substance use disorder (SUD).

The Purpose of Shame 

All negative emotions have a practical purpose, and shame is no different. If you have a healthy sense of self-worth, you feel shame when you do something that does not match your moral compass or societal standards. Furthermore, the feeling urges you to look inward and analyze your actions, thoughts, and motivations. In fact, shame guides you toward making positive changes in how you think and act. The feeling only becomes a problem when you focus on it instead of your need to grow. 

How Children Internalize Parental Shame

If you leave shame to fester, it can become a black cloud that affects you and everyone around you, including family members. Unaddressed shame often turns into irrational anger, anxiety, or deep guilt. In due time, your child will see how your intense emotions impact your ability to function. Consequently, your child may blame themselves for the negative emotions that you experience. Adolescents and young adults sometimes lash out, act up, or withdraw emotionally in response to the following: 

  • Changes to parenting styles 
  • Parental depression 
  • Unusual irritation, anger, or mood swings from parents

Everything you do during treatment and long-term recovery will affect your child. Parents who exhibit maladaptive behaviors can cause children to internalize negative emotions. Guilt or shame can cause parents to treat children significantly more harshly due to negative thought patterns. 

How you feel about yourself will explicitly translate to how you treat others, including your child. According to the Journal of Child and Family Studies, “For children of depressed parents, the maladaptive influence of parental guilt induction may increase the child’s difficulty in distinguishing problems they have caused from those instigated by forces beyond their control.” 

Maladaptive Shame and Regret 

Shame and regret can motivate positive changes. However, focusing on past mistakes without accepting them can compound current mental health issues. As stated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), “Having a substance use disorder is a risk [factor] for maltreatment, as it may affect a parent’s ability to function as a caregiver and provide for their children’s basic needs, such as safety, security, and permanency.” Accordingly, feeling guilty for your shortfallings can only harm your child.

If you previously put your child at risk by not providing them with what they needed, now is your opportunity to make necessary changes that prioritize your child’s health and safety. Allowing negativity to take over will unquestionably hurt them more. You can avoid influencing them with your feelings of shame or guilt by accepting past mistakes. Mistakes can provide a reason to do better. Then, you move forward. 

The Impact of Negativity on Your Child’s Mental Health

How you think, feel, and act will impact your child’s development and well-being. Parental depression or negativity can cause the following side effects in adolescents and young adults:

  • Behavior problems, including acting out 
  • Mood swings 
  • Depression 
  • Anxiety 
  • Increased risk of developing mental health disorders and SUD 
  • Social anxiety 
  • Attachment issues

You can protect your child in the long run by being honest with them. Not only take responsibility for your past behaviors but also continue to make progress in recovery. Eventually, your child will notice the changes. If you focus on positivity and healing, your child will have less risk of developing a mental health or substance use disorder. You can protect them from experiencing additional emotional distress by giving yourself permission to accept your mistakes. After that, you can move past negative feelings like guilt, shame, or regret. Regain control of your life by choosing to move forward. 

Seeking a Better Way Forward

You do not have to live with constant shame, guilt, and regret. To address these issues, you can do  the following: 

  • Get help from your support system 
  • Process your negative emotions in individual therapy 
  • Attend parenting classes or support groups 

Most important, you need to remember that your family can grow closer and repair any damage caused by maladaptive shame and guilt. We can help you find a healthy path forward at Newport Beach Recovery Center. Our compassionate care team will provide the tools you need to overcome depression and negativity. 

Your children will notice if you begin to experience depression or anxiety due to negative emotions related to your substance abuse. Overthinking past decisions is not always helpful. Holding onto shame, guilt, or regret about how your past actions affected your family will do nothing except leave you feeling miserable. Children will notice when you feel sad, angry, or anxious, and may assume they did something wrong. If you do not communicate clearly with your children and learn to overcome negativity, they may have an increased risk of developing mental health issues related to your SUD. You can protect them by using family support services like family therapy to overcome shame and show your children how much you love and care for them. Newport Beach Recovery Center can help you learn healthy ways to cope with negative emotions. To learn more, call us today at (888) 850-0363.