Treatment Cave

Rehab is behind you. You’re facing the world with a renewed sense of self-worth and well-being. You have a positive outlook and are looking forward to living a healthy and happy life. During your time in a residential center, you built the foundation of your recovery. You learned coping skills and gained the tools you need to stay free of substance abuse. You also learned about relapses. You know you must always be aware of the triggers that could send you back into the world of addiction.   What is Relapse? When a person is drug or alcohol free for a length of time and then returns to substance abuse, it's called a relapse. A relapse can be a one time occurrence or a return to total addictive behavior. Substance abuse addiction is a chronic brain disease and like many other diseases, there is a risk of relapse. Being aware of the causes, symptoms, and signs of relapse helps to minimize the chances of experiencing one. Relapse Triggers Although relapse triggers differ from one...

Have you been wondering whether your loved one has an addiction problem? Are you noticing certain behaviors that seem out of character? Perhaps you just have a feeling that something is not right. Knowing the signs of addiction will help you determine if your loved one has a drug or alcohol problem. Making that determination is the first step toward getting the help your loved one needs to become free of their addiction and start their journey toward recovery. What Is Addiction? According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the word “addiction” is defined as the “ compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance.” The definition goes on to state that the substance is known by the user to be harmful. Many people who are struggling with an addiction try very hard to hide their problem from their families. Some are in denial that they even have a problem. But every person suffering from substance abuse has one thing in common--they are each a member of the rapidly increasing numb...

Have there been times when you have tried to tell your family about your addiction? You gather up your courage and try to tell them, but, before you start, fear and uncertainty take hold. Maybe it’s not the right time. Maybe they really won’t understand. Will they stop loving me? As these kinds of thoughts race through your mind, you decide to keep hiding your secret longer. You might even try to convince yourself that you really don’t have an addiction problem at all. General Warning Signs of Addiction There are many warning signs of addiction. These signs can be behavioral, physical or emotional. General warning signs of addiction include:   Needing more drugs or alcohol to become satisfied Using more frequently Having symptoms of withdrawal Isolating yourself from family and friends Becoming withdrawn or unreliable Experiencing mood swings Having feelings of depression, anxiety or aggression Not caring about work or school Inattention to personal hygiene and physical appearance ...