The detection window of a standard 5-panel drug test ranges between a few hours and up to three months!

Why is the window so lengthy, and what determines my test’s detection period?

In this article, we’ll answer these questions. Read on to find out how far back a 5-panel drug test goes.

The Must-Know Information About 5-Panel Drug Tests

Every drug test contains different panels, each representing one drug being tested. Still, the five-panel test is considered the standard that most employers and government agencies use.

It’s usually a part of the background check employers require from their job candidates. This test is especially vital for positions related to the Department of Transportation (DOT). 

Some employers may also conduct random drug testing on existing employees from one time to another. 

Here’s how the test goes: 

Technicians perform the test by taking a saliva, hair, blood or urine sample from the person and analyzing it. 

The drug test results become available within 3 to 5 days, depending on the service provider. 

A “positive” result indicates that the tested person uses drugs. If the results are “negative,” though, the test indicates that the person is drug-free.

That said, the results might show a “false positive” in rare cases. This happens when the person’s body contains medications with chemicals similar in properties to the tested drugs.

What Drugs Show Up on a 5-Panel Screening Test?

The 5-panel test screens for the following five commonly abused substances in the provided sample: 

Substance	Detectable form
Opiates	heroin, morphine, oxymorphone, hydrocodone, codeine, and oxycodone metabolites
Phencyclidine	PCP
Cocaine	benzoylecgonine metabolite
Amphetamines	methamphetamine and amphetamine metabolites
Marijuana	THC compound

Does a 5-Panel Drug Test Detect Alcohol?

Alcohol testing isn’t part of five-panel drug tests. The test only screens for the five substances mentioned above. 

However, most drug testing services offer employers an option to include a separate alcohol use test with the 5-panel drug screening.

These alcohol screening analyses usually use urine, breath and blood ethanol testing methods.

How Far Back Does a 5-Panel Drug Test Go? An In-depth Look

The detection window of a panel drug test varies dramatically with the following three factors make that variance:

1. The test sample type
2. The type of abused drug
3. Frequency of use

Here’s a real example:

Occasional smoking of marijuana might not show a detectable THC in the test sample after only a couple of days. 

Conversely, smoking cannabis heavily can lead to a detectable THC in the blood for weeks.

With that said, let’s take a look at the average time a drug can stay detectable in different types of drug tests.

The Detection Window for Urine Tests

Urine tests are the most commonly used drug screening option, and they can only detect drug use in the short term, ten days max (except for Phencyclidine)

Here are the approximate durations different drugs can be detectable in a urine test sample:

Substance	Detection time frame
Opiates	2-3 days
Cocaine	2-4 days
Marijuana	2-7 days for light & moderate smokersUp to 15 days for daily smokersUp to 4 weeks for chronic smokers
Amphetamines	2 days
Phencyclidine	8 days for moderate usersAround 30 days for chronic users

The Detection Window for Hair Drug Tests

Hair strand drug testing offers a significantly longer detection window than urine tests. It can detect drugs for a duration of up to three months after the last use.

But why does a hair test go much further back than a urine one?

When a person consumes a certain drug, it enters the bloodstream and becomes part of the hair cells within a short time.

Because the hair growth cycle and changes are considerably slow, the substance remains in the hair for weeks and even months. 

That’s why a hair sample is the best option to detect repetitive drug use patterns. 

The Detection Window for Saliva and Blood Tests

Although less common, saliva and blood screening tests are used to detect substance use. 

The reason for being less frequently used is that these drug tests can’t detect drugs consumed more than four days earlier. 

Given that, the following is the average time frame the substance can be detectable in saliva and blood samples:

Substance	Saliva	Blood
Opiates	Up to 4 days	For 24 hours
Cocaine	Up to 3 days	1-2 days
Marijuana	For 24 hours	Up to 14 days
Amphetamines	Between 1 and 2 days	Less than 12 hours
Phencyclidine	1-3 days	1-4 hours

How to Prepare for The Five-Panel Drug Detection Tests?

Following some preparation tips before undergoing a five-panel drug test makes the process easier and prevents the need for repeating the analysis.

We’ve compiled the following most important preparation steps to help you with that:

Preparing for a 5-Panel Urine Drug Test

Keep these tips in mind when preparing for your next analysis:

• Avoid using tobacco or eating half an hour before the test.
• Stay hydrated around the time of the test. Try to consume around 8 ounces of water half an hour before providing the sample.
• Provide the sample in a clean container.

Preparing for a Hair Test

These two pieces of advice will help you be ready for a hair drug test:

• Avoid overusing styling products a few days before undergoing the test.
• Don’t choose damaged hair strands for the analysis because the lab will likely reject them.

Preparing For a Saliva Test

Try to follow these couple of tips for a successful saliva drug test:

• Drink a considerable amount of water on the test day. You’re allowed to consume water until 10 minutes before providing the sample. 
• Don’t eat, drink, chew gum, smoke, sniff, or cough for half an hour before the test.

Does Your Addiction Threaten Your Career? We Can Help! 

Substance abuse can devastate one’s job and even their entire professional life. It can deteriorate their performance and increase avoidable work errors. 

An employed person may be at risk of being fired if they undergo a random workplace drug test because of a reasonable suspicion from the employer.

Not to mention that you can’t apply for any job that includes drug testing requirements.

Do you relate to these issues? Don’t worry; you still have a chance to save your career and income source. 

With Illinois Recovery Center, you can take actionable steps toward recovery now. Our healthcare professionals will design a science-backed addiction treatment program tailored to your needs and condition. 

They’ll also give you guidance and support in each step of the recovery process.

Suffering from dependence on opioids, angel dust, or any other substance? We offer top-notch treatment for all addiction conditions. 

Contact us now, and let’s break addiction’s chains.

References 

• https://www.uschamber.com/co/run/human-resources/guide-to-background-checks-drug-testing
• https://www.testing.com/tests/opioid-drug-test
• https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=amphetamine_urine_screen
• https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-weed-stay-in-your-system#test-type
• https://www.healthline.com/health/hair-follicle-drug-test
• https://interclinical.com.au/htma-pathology/how-to-take-a-hair-sample

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Mental illness doesn’t define a person, but it could put a strain on their relationships. Whether you’re dealing with an ill partner, friend, or family member, pushing through day-to-day challenges can be incredibly difficult.

But mental illness can also come in episodes.

So, is this a rough patch that you can work through? Or is it time to cut ties for the sake of your own well-being?

In this post, you’ll learn when to walk away from someone with mental illness. We’ll also talk about your options: ending things peacefully and trying to salvage the relationship.

5 Valid Reasons to Walk Away From Someone With Mental Illness

You should never end a relationship solely based on your loved one’s diagnosis. Instead, the decision needs to be based on how you’re treated in the relationship and how the mental health condition impacts your life.

Here are five worrying situations:

1. You’re Concerned About Your Safety

Mental illness doesn’t necessarily translate to violent behavior. In fact, people suffering from certain conditions, like schizophrenia, are more likely to harm themselves than hurt you.

However, psychotic paranoias and command hallucinations can create a dangerous living environment. Plus, when substance abuse is involved, there’s a higher risk of violence.

Once your safety is in jeopardy, it’s time to leave or at least call a crisis line and put some distance between the two of you.

Keep in mind that the verbal and physical violence doesn’t have to be directed at you. Destruction of your belongings still counts as domestic abuse. Even the threat of violence in and of itself is a cause for concern.

2. The Relationship Seems Emotional Abusive

Physical abuse isn’t the only danger to your well-being. Emotional abuse is also a valid reason to walk away.

Again, mental health conditions aren’t to blame for abusive behavior. The disorder alone won’t make your loved one emotionally abusive. There’s more to it than just the diagnosis.

Yet, that doesn’t excuse the abuse. It doesn’t make the situation any more bearable for you, either.

Some signs that the relationship is taking a toll on your own mental health are:

• Your loved one shifts the blame and leaves you feeling guilty.
• You feel humiliated or belittled during your interactions.
• You have to deal with unrealistic expectations and demands of your time and energy, forcing you to give up important aspects of your own life.

3. The Person Refuses to Get Professional Help

Does your loved one refuse to get help? They aren’t alone in that decision. About 45% of individuals with a clinical mental health disorder in the US don’t seek professional help.

Some prefer self-help alternatives. Others don’t even believe they need any mental health treatment. The stigma and expenses can also deter a lot of people from getting help.

You can try to understand your loved one’s reasons and fears. But, at one point, the illness can become hard to live with.

Since involuntary hospitalization is often not an option, you can either accept and cope or walk away.

4. You’re Staying for All the Wrong Reasons

Leaving someone when they’re suffering from a mental health issue might seem cruel, but staying with them out of pity isn’t ideal, either.

Maintaining open communication, getting them help, and building their self-confidence—these are things you can do to actually improve their situation.

5. Resentment Crept in and Took Hold

Despite your best efforts, love and respect can fade over time. Resentment might take over, especially if you feel that being around this individual has cost you a lot.

Keeping the relationship going at this point can backfire. Your presence won’t be helping all that much. On the contrary, it might become harder to empathize with their struggles.

Note that resentment is no stranger to caregiving scenarios. There’s enough perceived disparity in effort to create anger and bitterness.

Still Can’t Tell if It’s Time to Leave? Gain Different Perspectives

Perhaps you still can’t say for sure if the relationship is beyond salvaging. That’s okay; figuring out how you really feel about a loved one with a mental health issue can take time.

Seeking guidance can help you, though. Consider consulting a trained therapist to better understand the challenges.

Even your support systems (friends, family members, etc.) can confirm your fears or show you things from a new perspective.

Ending Things With Someone With Mental Health Issues: 3 Tips

Realizing that you need to cut ties can be scary and overwhelming. But, if it’s the right move for you, you need to stick to your guts and do it.

Here are some tips to help you end things:

1. Plan for the Change

Before you actually say anything, make sure you have a solid plan.

Do you need a safe place? Do you need to change work schedules to avoid contact soon after cutting ties? Think it all over and make arrangements as needed.

2. Know What to Say

You don’t want the “goodbye” talk to end in screams. So, go ahead and think about what you’re going to say. Some people find that it helps to write down their thoughts, while others prefer to practice with a friend.

Either way, know what you need to say and how you’re going to say it (preferably calmly and with compassion).

Then, arrange a suitable time and place to talk. Depending on how close the two of you are, you might want to talk in person rather than over the phone.

3. Get Support (For the Both of You)

Make sure your support system knows about your decision ahead of time. You’ll need all the support you can get once it’s all over to let go of your guilt and get over the experience.

As for the other person, you’ll feel better about ending things if you know they have at least one source of support. You could let a friend of theirs know about the breakup or give a heads-up to their primary healthcare provider.

Trying to Salvage the Relationship: 5 Tips

Maybe reflecting on your relationship made you realize you’re not ready to walk away just yet.

That’s also a valid choice, but you might want to consider making some changes to the relationship dynamic. Otherwise, you’re getting back to the same loop.

Here are some tips to help you work through the challenges and build a healthy relationship:

1. Get Educated (Again and Again)

Loving someone with a mental illness can be hard, especially if you don’t understand their condition.

So, start there. Grab resources and get in touch with mental health professionals. Hopefully, this will help you understand the symptoms and work on not taking them personally.

2. Communicate Your Feelings and Hear Their Needs

Healthy, effective communication is vital for pretty much any relationship. Yours is no exception.

Keep everything you’ve learned about the condition in mind, and then sit down for a talk with your loved one. Using “I” statements, share your own needs and let them know how their mental illness impacts you.

Then, open yourself up to hearing their needs and struggles. Ask how you can help and provide support.

3. Talk About Treatment and/or Counseling

Professional help can go a long way in saving a relationship. Obviously, you’ll want to discuss treatment options with your loved one to see if they’re more receptive this time.

Just keep in mind that you might have to help with the leg work if they do agree to seek help. For instance, you can find a therapist, drive them to appointments, and attend support groups.

Aside from seeking treatment for the mental health condition, couples therapy can be helpful.

4. Establish Healthy Boundaries

It’s possible to set boundaries and still support a loved one. That’s as long as you know your role in the treatment plan (if the individual is getting treated) and can balance their needs with yours.

However, you’ll want to put an end to any abusive behavior. You should also make it clear that you need time for your well-being and self-care activities.

Consult your therapist if you’re not sure how to establish boundaries without being unfair. Boundaries can come in many shapes and forms (emotional, physical, financial, etc.) based on the nature of the relationship.

5. Take Care of Yourself

If you nail the previous tip, you should have more time and energy for yourself. Use them to the max by:

• Picking up your old hobbies and interests.
• Taking care of your body by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
• Maintaining a support system.
• Seeking professional help for yourself if you need to.

Final Thoughts

It’s okay to leave if someone’s mental health illness is chipping away at your feeling of self-worth or endangering you in any way.

So, take time to re-evaluate your relationship and consider all the available options.

Additional Resources

• Mental Health Crisis Lifeline: 988
• The Relationship Spectrum (for evaluating how healthy a relationship is)
• Mental Health Services offered by the IDHS
• NAMI Tips for Helping a Person With Mental Illness

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Alcoholism is a serious medical condition and is one of the most common addictions worldwide. While each person experiences it differently, there are some typical phases of alcohol addiction and recovery that many people go through, as shown and described by the Jellinek Curve.

Understanding this visual tool can help you or your loved ones spot the early signs of alcoholism, break the destructive cycle of addiction, and let go of obsessive drinking behaviors in favor of a healthier, happier life.

What Is the Jellinek Curve?

The Jellinek Curve, named after American alcohol researcher, Dr. Elvin Morton Jellinek, is a U-shaped chart that describes the common phases of alcohol addiction and recovery. It lists the specific symptoms of each stage and illustrates how alcoholism progresses for most individuals.

The chart also shows how obsessive drinking can turn into a vicious cycle that repeats until the person breaks free and seeks help. Although the Jellinek Curve was originally created to explain the trajectory of alcoholism, it has since been applied to many other types of addiction.

Origin of the Jellinek Curve

The Jellinek Curve is based on the work of Dr. Elvin Morton Jellinek, one of the founders of modern addiction science. In the 1940s, as part of his research, he surveyed thousands of people suffering from alcohol addiction about their personal experiences.

After analyzing the results of his surveys, Dr. Jellinek identified significant behavioral patterns and used them to define the phases of alcohol addiction. His findings also proved to him that alcoholism wasn’t a moral shortcoming, but a disease, which revolutionized its treatment.

The Jellinek Curve was first introduced in the Quarterly Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. Dr. Max Glatt, a German British psychiatrist and addiction expert, further refined the chart, by adding his findings about the shared experiences of his patients in recovery.

Understanding the Jellinek Curve: 5 Phases of Alcoholism

According to E.M. Jellinek and M. Glatt, people who are addicted to alcohol tend to go through the following progressive phases:

1. Pre-Alcoholic Phase

In the first phase of the Jellinek curve, a person uses alcohol to relax, relieve stress, or cope with mental health problems, like depression and anxiety. They may be drinking to feel better about themselves and to forget any emotional or physical pain they’re experiencing.

This phase is sometimes called “early relief drinking” or “gray area drinking.” It can be the hardest to spot since alcohol consumption is considered normal for many, and binge drinking can be a common activity for some during the weekends, at parties, and other celebrations.

At this point, the person can still function without alcohol throughout the day. They don’t experience any negative consequences from drinking, and there are no signs of physical dependence. However, repeated use can lead to tolerance.

Eventually, the person may need to drink more than before to feel the same effects. Instead of developing healthy coping mechanisms, they start to rely on alcohol to deal with their emotions.

2. Prodromal Phase (Early Alcoholic Stage)

When a person enters the prodromal phase, also known as the early alcoholic stage, the amount of alcohol they consume and how often they drink increases. Occasional nights out can turn into regular binge sessions. Experiencing blackouts is a warning sign of this phase.

In addition to thinking obsessively about drinking, many people will feel guilty about their cravings at this stage, so they may attempt to hide their drinking patterns. They begin to feel an impact from their alcohol use, such as sleep troubles, poor judgment, and relationship problems.

The person may also neglect their personal and professional life, and have a hard time fulfilling home, school, or work responsibilities because of hangovers.

Some of the troubling signs and symptoms of the prodromal phase include:

• Frequent weekday drinking
• Drinking to sleep or to intoxication
• Refusing to talk seriously about drinking habits
• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Nausea, headaches, or poor memory from drinking

3. Crucial Phase (Middle Alcoholic Stage)

The crucial phase is characterized by a person’s loss of control over their alcohol consumption. In most cases, the individual is completely dependent on alcohol, and can even start drinking in the morning. They often try to rationalize their behavior, make excuses, or isolate themselves.

During this phase, the damage of drinking is evident to the person’s friends and family. Their physical health declines and hospital trips may be common. Signs of alcohol abuse include facial redness, stomach bloating, weight gain or loss, mood swings, and sluggishness.

The person struggling with alcohol may also lose interest in their work, education, hobbies, and loved ones. As a result, they may encounter relationship, financial, and legal problems. It’s also common for people in this stage to try to stop drinking and to fail repeatedly.

4. Chronic Phase (Late Alcoholic Stage)

At the bottom of the Jellinek curve, there’s a loop where people can get trapped in a vicious cycle of alcohol addiction. It’s called the chronic phase, also known as “end-stage alcoholism.” Drinking becomes an individual’s sole focus, and alcohol is no longer a want but a need.

Their dependence on alcohol has become so high, that stopping may result in serious and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. To escape the withdrawal patterns, they start drinking again and the cycle continues. They may also get addicted to other harmful substances.

The person’s physical and mental health spiral downward until they hit rock bottom. This may provide a wake-up call for them to seek help and start working toward recovery.

The health effects of long-term heavy drinking at this stage include:

• Liver disease
• Heart failure
• Brain damage
• Aggression and impulsivity
• Hallucinations and paranoia
• Psychotic episodes or mental health disorders

5. Rehabilitation Phase

The road to rehabilitation begins with an honest desire for help. In the final phase of the Jellinek curve, the path steadily turns upward, as the person struggling with alcohol addiction makes an effort to break free from their old patterns and starts their recovery process.

After they stop drinking, symptoms of substance abuse gradually disappear. Foggy thinking clears up and is replaced by hopeful thoughts of a new life. They learn healthy coping mechanisms to deal with cravings and manage stress. Their health stabilizes, and their self-esteem is renewed.

The rehabilitation phase can be long and complicated, requiring lots of time and perseverance. However, the outcome is always worth it. With hard work, the right treatment, and support from loved ones, the person can fully recover into a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life free of addiction.

Signs that someone is in the rehabilitation phase are:

• Improved nutrition, hygiene, and sleep
• New interests and hobbies
• A network of stable and supportive friends
• Stronger emotional control
• Move toward financial, social, and emotional stability

Why Is the Jellinek Curve Important?

The Jellinek Curve serves as a science-backed visual tool that helps people understand the stages of addiction and the path to recovery. It clearly demonstrates how alcoholism can progress from occasional drinking to obsessive binging and addiction if left untreated.

The chart can help patients and loved ones identify whether certain drinking habits are a cause for concern, recognize that recovery is possible, and take action sooner rather than later.

It can also assist addiction treatment professionals in recognizing the early warning signs of addiction and tracking a patient’s journey, which can be helpful for their recovery. 

The Jellinek Curve is widely used as an intervention aid in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), related support groups, and many other addiction treatment programs. It has destigmatized addiction, showing it as a treatable condition with hope for recovery, instead of a personal weakness.

What Are the Treatment Options for Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol addiction is clinically referred to as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Much like many other medical conditions, it can be successfully managed and treated. There are a variety of options to treat AUD, including detoxification, rehab programs, therapy, medication, and support groups.

• Alcohol Detoxification: A medical process that allows an individual to safely and comfortably withdraw from alcohol and cleanse the substance out of their system.
• Addiction Treatment Programs: Inpatient and outpatient alcohol rehab programs offer different levels of care and support in treating AUD, depending on the person’s needs.
• Therapy for Addiction Recovery: Seeing a therapist can help an individual stay sober for the long term by teaching them coping strategies and ways to deal with triggers.
• Peer Support Groups: Support groups offer companionship and shared experiences on coping with AUD, preventing and dealing with relapses, and staying sober.

Chart Your Path to Addiction Recovery Today

The Jellinek Curve visibly illustrates that recovery is always possible no matter what phase of alcoholism a person is in. It serves as a symbol of hope for people struggling with addiction, assuring them that there’s a bright path ahead, and guiding them on the road to recovery.

If you or a loved one is dealing with alcohol use disorder, you can use the Jellinek Curve as a tool to chart your path to a successful recovery and live your life addiction-free. Contact Illinois Recovery Center today to learn how we can be there for you every step of the way.

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By 2022, a little over 10 million people in the US had used crack cocaine at least once in their lifetime.

Do you suspect the crack epidemic affects a loved one? If so, how can you tell for sure?

Not just anyone can diagnose a substance use disorder. However, there are a few visible signs of crack use, from behavior changes to chronic itching. Friends and family can spot these warnings, stage an intervention, and convince the person to get professional help.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the most common signs, the at-risk groups, and what you can do to help someone who’s suffering from crack addiction. We’ll also go over the signs that indicate a possible cocaine overdose.

Who Can Diagnose Crack Use Disorders and Addiction?

Let’s get one thing out of the way: Only medical professionals can diagnose a cocaine-related substance use disorder.

Usually, they rely on the DSM guidelines to see if a person meets the official criteria of addiction to stimulants, among other illicit substances.

But to convince a loved one to seek professional help, you need to recognize the warning signs.

7 Warning Signs That Someone Is Using Crack Cocaine

Crack use can cause both physical and psychological damage. Some effects might appear shortly, while others take longer to kick in.

High blood pressure, narrowed blood vessels, and heart rate irregularities are all common issues. However, these types of health effects are hard to spot without proper examination.

Instead, you’ll want to keep an eye out for the more apparent signs, including:

1. Various Respiratory Issues

People who abuse crack often smoke the white crystalline substance. Then, it’s absorbed straight from the lungs and into the bloodstream. That’s why smoking crack leads to a quick (but brief) sense of euphoria.

Unfortunately, this route of administration hits the different parts of the respiratory system hard. In fact, it could cause a condition known as “crack lung.”

Crack lung can show up as increased coughing (sometimes with blood), wheezing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, the condition could escalate to respiratory failure!

2. Visible Signs on the Skin, Eyes, Teeth, and Lips

Lots of illicit substances affect the eyes, either causing redness or altering the pupils’ size. Crack cocaine causes dilated pupils. The eyes aren’t the only visible indicator, though.

For one, the lips might be blistered from smoking crack. So could the fingertips.

Crack users tend to have dermatological issues as well. Severe and chronic itching is the most common (and easily spotted) problem. Itching happens because the drug causes formication tactile hallucinations, where the person feels like bugs are crawling under their skin.

Plus, the person’s oral hygiene might deteriorate since crack cocaine use is associated with a higher risk of tooth loss, dental caries, and periodontal diseases.

3. Ulterted Eating Habits

Nausea and loss of appetite are two signs that a person is using crack cocaine (and stimulant drugs, in general). So, a sudden weight loss is to be expected.

In the long term, these altered eating habits could lead to malnutrition.

4. Bursts of Energy Followed by a Devastating Crash

When someone smokes (freebases) crack, they get an immediate rush, feeling focused, energetic, and euphoric. That’s because crack use releases a lot of dopamine (the feel-good neurotransmitter) in the brain.

But the high lasts for 15 minutes or so.

Once the effects wear off, the person experiences an unpleasant “come down” or “crash.” They’ll feel groggy and tired. That’s when the intense cravings start hitting, and finding the next dose of crack seems like the most important thing in the world to the user.

As a result, you’ll likely notice wild fluctuations in the person’s focus and energy levels. Alternatively, they might get stuck in a binge cycle, trying to maintain the high.

Over time, more of the person’s brain function will be altered. Aside from dopamine, cocaine can also affect glutamate, which is vital for learning and memory. So, it’s not surprising that cocaine abuse is associated with cognitive impairment.

5. Sleep Pattern Distributions

During a crash, the person might sleep longer than usual. Otherwise, stimulant drug use can keep a person up for days at a time.

You need to look for changes in the person’s sleep patterns.

6. Behavioral and Psychological Changes

The use of crack cocaine can change a person’s behavior quickly. Look for erratic, aggressive, and sometimes outright violent behavior for no clear reason.

You might also be aware that your loved one has lost interest in most social interactions. Risky behaviors, hyperactivity, and mood swings are also common signs.

Psychosis, hallucinations, and paranoia are all red flags as well.

7. Ownership of Crack-Use Paraphernalia

Finally, a dead giveaway that your loved one is suffering from a substance use disorder is finding drug paraphernalia in their belongings.

That said, some crack paraphernalia (bowls, cans, lighters, coat hangers, etc.) might go unnoticed for a while if you don’t know what to look for. Keep an eye out for small glass/metal tubes that people use to smoke the crystalline form of cocaine.

Note: Not all crack looks like white rocks. Crack sold on the street might be cut with other dangerous substances that change its appearance.

It’s also wise to familiarize yourself with the street names (like rock) for crack cocaine to see if your loved one talks about any of them.

Identifying the At-Risk Groups

Now, you might be wondering if your loved one is particularly at risk. The thing is, it’s hard to define who’s really at risk of crack abuse.

Some reports indicate that kids as young as 13 are already caught up in this drug addiction epidemic.

Meanwhile, the SAMHSA’s 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health breaks down the use of crack in particular (and cocaine in general) into demographics based on age.

Here are the highlights of the findings:

Demographic/Illicit Substance	Cocaine	Crack
12 or Older	1.9% (5.3 million people)	0.3% (918,000 people)
18–25	3.7% (1.3 million people)	0.1% (39,000 people)
26 or Older	1.8% (3.9 million people)	0.4% (877,000 people)

You can see that the highest calculated percentage of crack use in 2022 was among adults at least 26 years old.

What to Do if You Suspect a Loved One Is Using Crack Cocaine

Did you notice enough signs of crack cocaine addiction in a friend or a family member?

We know the initial shock can be overwhelming, but you need to calm down and think about the best way to help your loved one.

1. Consult a Professional

First things first, you need to get in touch with a medical professional. They won’t be able to confirm the diagnosis without examining the patient.

However, they could provide educational resources and maybe even recommend a nearby addiction treatment center with a detox facility.

Once you know the available hospitalization and treatment options, you can start planning an intervention.

2. Stage an Intervention

Crack use can rewire the brain to compulsively seek the next high. That’s why convincing someone that they need help won’t be easy, even if you have family members on your side.

If you don’t think you confront them properly, consider hiring an intervention specialist.

3. Join a Support Group

From overcoming the cocaine withdrawal symptoms to working on relapse prevention, the recovery journey will be long and hard on your loved one. They’ll need your continuous support through all the ups and downs.

However, you also need a bit of support. After all, the journey can take its toll on your mental health and well-being.

Joining a local support program for families in a similar situation can go a long way. If that’s not possible for logistical reasons, you can still attend virtual meetings.

Knowing the Warning Signs of a Crack Overdose

Not all families will be lucky enough to notice the signs of abuse early on. Some will only get to spot the drastic warning signs of an overdose (OD), including:

• Fever
• Sweating
• Delirium and hallucinations
• Losing consciousness
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizing

Reacting Quickly

As always, the best thing to do in emergencies is to dial 911 and stay with your loved one until the help arrives.

Don’t hang up the phone while you wait for the first responders. If there’s anything you can do to help, the operator will walk you through the steps.

For instance, if your loved one is seizing, they might direct you to remove sharp objects from the area and roll the person onto their side.

Final Thoughts

Violence, cardiovascular disease, respiratory failure, and ODs—the crack addiction road can be ugly and deadly. However, help is available in the form of cocaine addiction treatment programs.

If you believe someone you know and care about is suffering from a substance use issue, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Additional Resources

• Cocaine Anonymous (CA) state directory | Chicago, Illinois: (312) 834-3784
• SAMHSA’s Substance Abuse Treatment: A Booklet for Families
• NIDA’s Cocaine/Crack: Abuse and Addiction
• Illinois Department of Human Services: Facts You Should Know About Crack

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Physiological dependence is a huge component of substance use disorder. Essentially, your body becomes so reliant on a substance that you start experiencing tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when you try to cut back or quit.

It can develop with all sorts of substances, including recreational drugs and prescription meds. Recognizing the warning signs is a big first step toward getting better and achieving lasting wellness.

Today, we’re covering how physiological dependence develops and what you can do about it.

What Is Physiological Dependence?

Physiological dependence is another way of saying you’re physically reliant on a substance. You feel like you need it to survive, even though you know that’s not true.

When this happens, your central nervous system goes haywire. You get these intense signals, insisting you can’t function without this substance. You crave it and look forward to your next fix.

The biggest red flags about physiological dependence are tolerance and withdrawal. Tolerance is when you need higher doses of the substance to achieve the same effects. Withdrawal, on the other hand, is how your body reacts to its absence.

How Does Physiological Dependence Develop?

Many substances affect our neurotransmitters, the chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood, behavior, and many other bodily functions.

For instance, opioids can pump up your levels of the feel-good hormone dopamine. They block pain and reward you with temporary bliss.

The problem is that the longer you use them, the more your body adapts—you start building up a tolerance. Your brain constantly expects the flood of dopamine, and it takes more and more of the drug to get the same high.

When you suddenly stop or reduce intake, your body struggles to cope. It doesn’t just snap back to how it was before you started it. Instead, your nervous system goes into panic mode, trying to compensate for the lack of these chemicals.

That’s when the withdrawal symptoms hit, which can be painful or even life-threatening. They can be so bad that you start using again just to make them stop. It then becomes a vicious cycle that can be impossible to break without help.

Symptoms of Physiological Dependence

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the hallmark sign of physiological dependence is withdrawal.

Withdrawal can look different for everyone, but the most common symptoms include:

• Muscle aches or spasms
• Anxiety or depression
• Restlessness or irritability
• Insomnia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Elevated heart rate
• Poor concentration
• Delusions or hallucinations

Symptoms can fall under two categories: acute withdrawal syndrome and post-acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS for short.

Acute withdrawal usually lasts briefly, while PAWS can drag on for years, although the symptoms are less severe.

The specifics of what you’ll experience and how long it will last can vary depending on a few factors. What kind of substance are you taking? How high are the doses and how long have you been taking it?

It’s always best to have professional guidance when managing withdrawal to keep you safe and as comfortable as possible.

High-Risk Substances for Physiological Dependence

Below are substances that are most likely to lead to physical dependence:

1. Antidepressants

Antidepressants help with anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions by changing the levels of certain chemicals in your brain. Experts don’t consider them addictive, but some people can develop a dependence.

Withdrawal symptoms may occur if you suddenly stop taking the antidepressant or abruptly reduce your dosage after a month of use or longer. The exact term for this is antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, which affects 20% of patients.

Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, insomnia, nausea, mood swings, and electric shock sensations in your head.

2. Opioids

Doctors prescribe opioids to treat acute pain in patients recovering from an injury or surgery, as well as chronic pain from diseases like cancer.

You might be familiar with some common prescription opioids. Codeine, oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), and morphine are a few examples.

These medications are proven effective at relieving pain. However, they also come with a high risk of dependence and abuse, especially if taken in higher doses or for longer than recommended.

Opioid abuse has become a major public health crisis. Many who develop an addiction to prescription opioids end up turning to street drugs like heroin when they can no longer get scripts.

If you’re prescribed opioids, make sure you take them exactly as directed, and never share them with anyone else. Be honest with your doctor about any history of substance abuse, and speak up if you start noticing symptoms of physical dependence.

3. Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, or just benzos, are prescription drugs for anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. Some well-known brand names include Xanax, Valium, Ativan, and Klonopin.

Benzos work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which calms the brain. If you quit taking benzos suddenly, your brain is left with a deficit of GABA activity. This can trigger withdrawal symptoms, such as

• Intense anxiety
• Insomnia
• Tremors
• Sweating
• Heart palpitations

In severe cases, benzo withdrawal can cause seizures. Long-term benzo use can lead to memory problems, mental impairment, and an increased risk of fractures.

4. Barbiturates

Barbiturates are a class of drugs that were once widely prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. They’re still sometimes used in hospital settings as anesthesia and to treat certain types of seizures.

Like benzos, they work by depressing the central nervous system, producing a calming effect.

The danger with barbiturates is that they have a high potential for physical dependence, even more so than benzos. Attempting to quit “cold turkey” can be extremely risky.

What Are the Types of Treatment for Physiological Dependence

Physical dependence on a substance, whether it’s an opioid, benzo, or something else, can be a real struggle. But the good news is, there are effective treatments available to you.

1. Detox

The first line of defense against physiological dependence is detox. This is where you safely stop using the substance under medical supervision. It can happen in a hospital, a specialized treatment center, or even on an outpatient basis with close monitoring.

Typically, you take medications to help wean you off the substance and manage your withdrawal symptoms. For example, methadone or buprenorphine might be used for opioid withdrawal.

These medications either mimic the effects of the substance in a controlled way or block them altogether.

2. Aftercare

Once you’re through the acute withdrawal phase, the real work of recovery begins.

Aftercare is all about treating the psychological side of addiction and building your support network. Because even though your body might be physically free from the substance, your mind is still catching up.

Many different types of therapy can help with dealing with the aftermath of physiological dependence. Rehab offers more flexibility, and a counselor can help figure out the best approach for you.

Some people do well with regular outpatient care, where they schedule therapy sessions around their other commitments. Others benefit from more intensive programs, like partial hospitalization, where you go to treatment during the day but sleep at home at night.

Addiction vs. Physiological Dependence

The tricky part is that physiological dependence can also happen with prescription drugs, even when you’re taking them exactly as advised. It’s also a doctor’s dilemma, especially for medications like opioids, which they prescribe for managing acute and chronic pain.

Regular use builds tolerance. Or, it could indicate that the underlying problem isn’t being properly addressed, with the pain worsening or other factors needing attention.

If you’re worried that you’re developing dependence and considering coming off your prescription meds, talk to your doctor. They can safely taper you off it and explore alternative treatments with you.

Remember, physiological dependence doesn’t equal addiction. For instance, people who rely on pain meds for chronic pain can have physiological dependence or even high tolerance without having an addiction to them.

Addiction is more complex and involves compulsive drug use despite negative consequences. It almost always includes both physical and psychological dependence.

Addiction is when using a substance becomes the most important thing in your life, even if it’s harming you or the people you care about. You might find yourself doing things you never thought you would just to get your hands on your substance of choice.

Bottom line: It’s a fine line, and physiological dependence can quickly escalate to addiction if not managed correctly.

Final Thoughts

Physiological dependence is simply your body’s way of telling you to quit. Withdrawal symptoms can be painful, but sometimes, they’re the wake-up call you need to commit to getting better.

Please, don’t ever feel ashamed to seek help for substance abuse issues. Drug dependence is a medical condition, not a personal failure.

If you or your loved one is struggling with physiological dependence, let us help you. We can find a treatment plan for your unique situation and needs.

You deserve to have your concerns taken seriously and receive compassionate care. Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.

References:

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22513-neurotransmitters
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5449237/#b1-189e747
• https://www.hrsa.gov/opioids
• https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acschembio.8b00144
• https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2013/0815/p224.html
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/

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NyQuil is one of the most popular medications in the United States, and it is used to relieve common cold and flu symptoms. Although it’s safe when taken correctly, NyQuil can be misused, and in severe cases, become addicting, habit-forming, and even life-threatening.

Read on to learn more about NyQuil addiction, how it begins, and common signs and symptoms to look out for. We’ll also discuss withdrawal side effects and treatment options to help people struggling with the misuse of this medication.

What Is NyQuil?

NyQuil is an over-the-counter medication that provides temporary relief of cold and flu symptoms, such as runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, headache, fever, and minor aches and pains. It’s manufactured by Vicks and sold in most drugstores across the country.

Many people take NyQuil to help them manage their sickness and sleep through the night. Its ingredients can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so it’s important to avoid driving vehicles, operating machinery, or performing tasks that require alertness when taking NyQuil.

Active Ingredients and Safe Dosage for NyQuil

NyQuil is a combination medication that contains three active ingredients:

• Acetaminophen: an analgesic that acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer
• Dextromethorphan (DXM): a cough suppressant that calms your body’s cough reflex
• Doxylamine succinate: an antihistamine that relieves allergy and cold symptoms

When taken correctly, this medicine is generally safe for short-term use in adults and children aged 12 and above. It’s available in both capsule and liquid form. You can experience symptom relief within 30 minutes, with effects lasting for up to 6 hours.

The typical dose for adults and kids 12 years and older is 30 mL of oral liquid every 6 hours. For kids aged 6 to 11 years old taking Children’s NyQuil, it’s best to ask your child’s medical provider for the correct dosage. Always read the instructions and use as directed by your doctor.

Is NyQuil Addicting?

Yes, the improper use of NyQuil may lead to dependency and drug addiction, resulting in serious side effects and withdrawal symptoms. A person can misuse NyQuil by taking excessively high doses over long periods of time and for the wrong reasons, without consulting a medical professional.

NyQuil is intended to relieve short-term symptoms, and not treat long-term issues like asthma,  chronic bronchitis, or insomnia. It shouldn’t be used as a sleep aid or for recreational use. If too much is ingested, an individual can overdose on NyQuil.

Understanding NyQuil Addiction

One of NyQuil’s active ingredients, dextromethorphan (DXM), can have mind-altering effects, especially when consumed repeatedly in large amounts. A person who abuses this medication can experience feelings of euphoria and hallucinations similar to that of getting “high.”

Dangers of Robotripping

Since NyQuil is legal, affordable, and easily accessible without a prescription, people suffering from addiction resort to it as an alternative to illegal substances. The act of abusing NyQuil for recreation is often called “robotripping” or “skittling” and the consequences can be serious.

Despite being an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, the effects of high doses of NyQuil are close to those of illegal and hazardous hallucinogens. The DXM content can weaken judgment and coordination, and in some cases, has even killed several people.

Sleep Disorders

Additionally, people who struggle with sleep-related problems may attempt to take NyQuil to help them fall asleep quickly and get some rest at night. They might fall into the habit of ingesting too much and too often, rather than consulting their doctor to find healthy ways to improve sleep.

It should be noted that NyQuil isn’t an approved sleep aid. Individuals who misuse NyQuil for recreation and to fall asleep are at risk of developing an addiction to the medication.

Risk Factors for NyQuil Addiction

Individuals who have a personal or family history of substance abuse, trauma, and mental illness are especially at risk of developing a NyQuil addiction.

Adolescents and young adults who are around people who use the medication for recreation are also vulnerable to its misuse. Lack of parental monitoring and support as well as growing up in a dysfunctional household can also increase a person’s tendency to abuse NyQuil.

Additional risk factors for NyQuil addiction include having easy access to the drug, misconception of its safety, having a risk-taking personality, and being of the male gender.

Signs and Symptoms of NyQuil Addiction

Here are some of the common signs and symptoms to be aware of in cases of NyQuil abuse and addiction:

• Irregular sleeping patterns
• Confusion and dissociation
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Dry mouth or slurred speech
• Constipation, vomiting, diarrhea
• Cravings for NyQuil or DXM
• Rapid heart rate or high blood pressure
• Mental health challenges, like anxiety and depression

You may also notice the following behavioral changes in someone suffering from abuse or addiction to NyQuil:

• Intense urges and difficulty controlling NyQuil use
• Needing to use higher doses of NyQuil or in combination with other drugs
• Anger, agitation, or mood swings connected to NyQuil use
• Social withdrawal and not telling loved ones about the amount or frequency of use
• Cognitive decline or injuries from diminishing coordination and perception
• Neglecting to meet personal or family responsibilities due to NyQuil use
• Poor performance resulting in academic failure or job loss

Withdrawal Side Effects of NyQuil

NyQuil withdrawal symptoms may appear within just a few hours of the last use of medication and typically peak within three days.

They can include stomach pain, nausea, chills, excessive sweating, hot and cold flashes, restlessness, moodiness, shaking, tremors, insomnia, blurred vision, cravings, and weight loss.

Factors that affect the withdrawal process include how long a person has misused NyQuil, how much they consume, use of other medications, and if they are polydrug abusers. Individual differences in age, weight, metabolism, and mental and physical health can also have an impact.

Drug Interactions, Overdose, and Allergic Reactions to NyQuil

Drug interactions can increase a person’s risk of harmful side effects when misusing NyQuil. Taking MAO inhibitors, including muscle relaxants, antihistamines, sleeping and anxiety drugs, with NyQuil can result in health complications, liver damage, heart attacks, and seizures.

There is also a risk of overdose when a person uses NyQuil without the guidance of a doctor. Symptoms include yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, seizures, hallucinations, extreme tiredness, confusion, sweating, and abdominal pain.

Meanwhile, an allergic reaction to NyQuil can manifest in breathing difficulties, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue, rashes, hives, skin reddening, and blisters. Get medical help immediately if you or someone you know experiences any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

What Are the Treatment Options for NyQuil Addiction?

Nyquil addiction can be serious and life-threatening, but with the right care, it is treatable. The following treatment options can help a person end their NyQuil abuse, regain control of their behavior, and get back to living a normal and healthy life:

Medical Detox

It can be dangerous to suddenly stop taking NyQuil or to quit “cold turkey,” as this can cause more intense and long-lasting withdrawal symptoms. Medical detox can help an individual in cleansing their body of an addictive substance safely, in a medically supervised environment.

During this time, doctors may also prescribe medications that can help relieve the painful effects of withdrawal. The length of a detox will depend on the severity of the addiction. The entire process can last for a week or more.

Residential or Outpatient Treatment

Once the detox is complete, there are several types of addiction treatment that can benefit the person and lead them on the path to full recovery, depending on the level of care that they need.

• Residential Treatment: 24-hour care for patients with moderate to severe symptoms of addiction in a safe, substance-free facility under the support of medical staff.
• Partial Hospitalization Program: Also known as “day treatment,” a hospital-based program that provides structured support to promote addiction recovery and prevent relapse but doesn’t require patients to live in the facility
• Intensive Outpatient Program: A non-residential treatment program designed for people with substance use disorders who require a high level of mental health care but don’t need medical detox or round-the-clock supervision
• Outpatient Treatment Program: A flexible rehabilitation program that allows patients with mild to moderate addiction to maintain their employment or education and live at home while receiving the treatment that they need

Treatment programs provide individuals with professional help in dealing with their addiction and equip them with tools that they can use to live a healthy, happy, and drug-free life. They often involve individual and group therapy, workshops, support groups, and life skills training.

Struggling With NyQuil Addiction? Start Your Journey to Recovery

If you or a loved one is suffering from NyQuil Addiction, it’s important to get professional medical help as soon as possible. Illinois Recovery Center offers personalized, evidence-based treatment programs for all stages of addiction recovery in a safe and supportive environment.

Reach out to one of our admissions representatives today to learn more about our treatment center and how we can get you on the path to a successful recovery. For more information on our programs, call us today!

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The growing acceptance of cannabinoids allowed them to offer a variety of therapeutic benefits, such as managing anxiety, pain, and other medical conditions.

However, like many substances, regular cannabis use can lead to the development of tolerance where the initial effects experienced start to diminish, which requires higher doses to achieve and risk dependence.

One solution to this problem is abstaining from cannabis for a certain period of time to restore tolerance levels. But will a 2 day tolerance break do anything?

Most experts believe a 2-day tolerance break is effective, but there are some factors that may affect how long you should stay

In this guide, we’ll dive into the science behind tolerance breaks to help you better understand how it works, along with other methods to manage cannabinoid tolerance.

How Does a Cannabis Tolerance Break Work?

Regular cannabis use, whether for medical or recreational purposes, can lead to a phenomenon known as “cannabis tolerance”.

This means your body gradually adapts to the presence of cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, the psychoactive compounds responsible for the effects of the drug. As a result, you’ll need to progressively increase your dose to reach the same desired effects you initially had.

This can be frustrating for all types of cannabis users, leading to increased consumption and potentially developing cannabis dependence, which leads to addiction as well as uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and side effects.

The Science Behind Tolerance

A cannabis tolerance break, also known as a t-break, is a period of abstaining from cannabis use to allow your body’s endocannabinoid system to recover and avoid dependence.

These receptors, particularly the CB1 receptors, play a crucial role in mediating the effects of THC and other cannabinoids, whether you consume them through vape, edibles, or other cannabis products.

After regular consumption of cannabis, the body adapts to the presence of cannabis and starts the downregulation of these cannabinoid receptors to reduce their effect, which leads to tolerance build up.

During a t-break, the body simply starts reversing this process. Since the cannabinoids aren’t constantly present in the blood, CB1 receptors gradually return to their baseline sensitivity levels.

Signs a Tolerance Break Is Essential

As previously established, regular cannabis use, even for medicinal purposes, can lead to the development of cannabis tolerance.

In that case, you should never consider using more cannabis, as it can lead to exceeding the safe dosage and cause a variety of serious complications.

If you witness any of the following signs, you should start your weed tolerance break right away:

• Reduced Symptom Relief: This is especially common among users of cannabis to treat chronic pain. In that case, the same amount of cannabis that once provided significant relief may no longer be sufficient.
• Shorter Duration of Action: besides needing high THC doses, the therapeutic benefits might also wear off much faster than they used to.
• Increased Cravings: This includes seeking marijuana outside of the typical consumption times or when not seeking its medicinal properties.
• Changing the Recommended Mode of Use: For instance, your healthcare provider recommends using cannabis through specific routes but you end up consuming it through a more potent route, such as through bongs.
• Developing Withdrawal Symptoms: If you experience intensified negative side effects like headaches, anxiety, paranoia, or dizziness, it’s usually a clear sign it’s time for a break.

How Long Should an Effective T-Break Last?

Studies suggest that some CB1 receptor recovery can start within 48 hours of abstaining from cannabis.

Some reports found that some individuals, especially those with high consumption levels, may require up to 72 hours to kick in.

This means a short 2-day break can offer some benefits in terms of increased sensitivity to cannabinoids, but it’s always best to extend it to at least 3 days to be sure.

That being said, further research shows that it may take the body anywhere between 3 weeks and 2 months to completely redistribute and reset the cannabis tolerance. In other words, the longer you extend the t-break, the more effective it’s going to be.

Factors Affecting the Length of Tolerance Break

There are various factors affecting the recommended duration of the t-break. In this section, we’ll take a quick look at them.

Frequency and Amount of Cannabis Use

Heavy cannabis users who consume cannabis frequently and in high doses will typically require longer breaks (a few weeks or more) to achieve a significant tolerance reset.

On the other hand, if you consume cannabis in very small quantities, 2-day breaks might be good enough for you.

THC Content

Studies show that among the active ingredients in cannabis, THC is the one mainly contributing to its tolerance-inducing effect.

As a result, products with higher THC content will result in stronger tolerance, and therefore, longer t-breaks.

Individual Differences

Variations in how the body processes cannabinoids can impact the effectiveness of different break lengths.

Although not by much, individuals with faster metabolisms typically require slightly shorter breaks for the same amount of THC consumed, compared to those with slower metabolism.

Medicinal Need

Stopping cannabis use cold turkey might not be feasible for individuals using it purely for medical purposes to manage chronic conditions, especially if it’s necessary for managing co-occurring mental health conditions.

In that case, you must discuss your need for alternative management strategies with a healthcare professional to ensure symptom control while potentially reducing tolerance.

How Long Can My Break Be?

If you develop severe tolerance to cannabis quickly and you want to avoid using it completely, you can simply extend your break indefinitely. You only need to discuss the alternative with your doctor if you use it for medicinal reasons.

Key Takeaway

Cannabis tolerance breaks are highly effective in reducing the risk of cannabis dependence and developing withdrawal symptoms.

While a 2-day break can offer some advantages, you may need to extend your break a few weeks to reset your cannabinoid receptors.

If you would like to find out more about the ideal tolerance break period for your specific situation or you need help with cannabis addiction, contact our experts at Illinois Recovery Center to receive help right away!

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In recent years, addiction specialists have implemented different forms of psychotherapies to treat substance abuse disorders and various addictions. They help patients struggling with addiction address the underlying psychological, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to their substance abuse.

While there are tens of effective, evidence-based psychotherapies (EBP) out there, today’s post will focus on comparing only three of them in detail: DBT vs CBT vs ACT. Read on to understand their key differences in addiction treatment.

Understanding DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)

DBT stands for Dialectical Behavior Therapy. It’s a comprehensive and structured approach to therapy that helps individuals develop practical skills for managing their emotions and leading a more fulfilling life.

The ‘dialectical’ part of DBT refers to the idea of balancing opposites. In DBT, your therapist works with you to find a balance between acceptance and change. You learn to acknowledge that you need to accept yourself and situations as they are, while also working towards improving yourself.

As for the ‘behavior’ part of DBT, that’s because this form of psychotherapy focuses on behaviors and actions rather than thoughts or feelings. DBT teaches you to develop skills that work on harmful behaviors. You’re able to cope with distressing situations more effectively as well.

Interestingly, DBT is a form of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) as it incorporates techniques from the latter. However, DBT places a greater emphasis on how patients interact with their environment and other people.

How Does DBT Work?

DBT is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach that helps patients accept their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. Therapists work to validate each patient’s experience and challenges while simultaneously supporting them in making positive changes.

As such, DBT focuses more on the emotional and social aspects of the patient’s life. By doing so, it helps them better understand and accept difficult emotions—rather than suppressing or avoiding dealing with them.

DBT then has the potential to induce what is known as neuroplasticity. In other words, it can physically change the brain through therapeutic learning. This therapy remaps connections between neurons, helping patients develop new ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving.

What Are the Stages of DBT?

The process of DBT involves several stages. In the initial stages, therapists assess the individual’s treatment needs and collaborate with them to develop a personalized treatment plan. This stage builds a solid foundation for the rest of the therapy process.

1. Stage 1: Behavioral Dysregulation

Stage 1 includes teaching individuals skills. It manages intense emotions, impulsive behaviors, and interpersonal conflicts. Through this stage, the emphasis is on developing mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation skills. Patients enhance their emotional stability and reduce harmful behaviors as well.

2. Stage 2: Addressing Underlying Issues and Trauma

In Stage 2, individuals continue to build upon the skills learned in Stage 1 while also addressing the underlying issues and past traumas that contribute to ongoing distress. Therapists work to deepen the individual’s understanding of their emotions and behaviors. They also help the patient identify patterns of thinking and develop coping strategies for challenging situations.

3. Stage 3: Addressing Ordinary Problems in Living

Stage 3 focuses on applying the skills learned in therapy so far to everyday life situations. Patients are expected to work on managing their responsibilities, maintaining healthy relationships, and finding balance in their daily routines. In this stage, individuals integrate skills into daily functioning.

4. Stage 4: Achieving Self-Actualization

During the final stage, individuals need to build a life worth living by pursuing meaningful goals, values, and aspirations. Therapists focus on autonomy, independence, and self-empowerment, with individuals continuing to apply DBT skills as needed to navigate life’s challenges.

Who Is DBT For?

Originally, DBT was developed to help people with borderline personality disorder (BPD). It’s since proved to be effective in treating various mental health issues, including:

• Addiction and substance abuse disorder
• Mood and eating disorders
• Anxiety
• Depression

Understanding CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT emphasizes the role of thoughts (cognitions) in influencing the patient’s emotions and behaviors. The therapy suggests that our thoughts can significantly impact how we feel and behave in different situations.

In addition to the ‘cognitive’ part, CBT incorporates behavioral techniques to bring about change. This includes identifying and modifying behaviors that contribute to distress or interfere with achieving your personal goals.

CBT is typically conducted collaboratively between the therapist and the individual seeking treatment as well. They work together to set specific, measurable goals for therapy. They then work towards achieving them through structured interventions.

How Does CBT Work?

CBT works by identifying cognitive distortions or irrational thinking patterns that contribute to negative emotions and behaviors. When patients become aware of these distortions, they develop more balanced and realistic ways of thinking.

Additionally, CBT teaches practical skills and techniques that these patients can use to cope with challenges more effectively. Some examples may include:

• Relaxation techniques
• Problem-solving skills
• Assertiveness training
• Communications skills

Finally, while CBT may explore past experiences and their influence on present behaviors, it focuses mainly on current problems. CBT helps patients find solutions in the present moment.

Who Is CBT For?

CBT has been extensively researched and demonstrated to be effective for a variety of mental health problems, including substance abuse disorders.

Most commonly, CBT is used to treat anxiety and depression. Psychotherapy treats anger problems, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse, among other issues – and those can include:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Hoarding
• Eating disorders
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Sleep disorders
• Phobias
• Marital issues

What Are the Common Methods of CBT?

In addiction therapy, CBT employs various methods to address the underlying thoughts, emotions, and behaviors associated with addictive patterns. Below are just some examples of the most commonly used CBT methods.

1. Cognitive Restructuring

With cognitive restructuring, individuals work with therapists to identify and challenge negative thought patterns contributing to their addiction. By reframing these thoughts and beliefs, individuals can develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

2. Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy addresses cravings and triggers associated with substance use. Through gradual and controlled exposure to stimuli that evoke cravings, individuals learn to tolerate discomfort. They develop alternative responses to cravings instead.

3. Journaling

CBT for addiction often requires patients to record their thoughts. It involves documenting automatic negative thoughts related to substance use and challenging them with evidence-based reasoning. Patients become more aware of their triggers and develop strategies to cope with cravings.

Understanding ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a lesser-known form of CBT, however, that doesn’t make it any less effective as a therapy. This type of psychotherapy focuses on helping individuals accept what’s beyond their control and commit to actions that align with their values.

And so, the word ‘acceptance’ in the acronym stands for the patient’s ability to accept difficult thoughts, emotions, and sensations rather than controlling them. They learn to make room for these emotions instead of struggling against their unpleasant experiences.

Additionally, mindfulness techniques are central to ACT. Patients learn to cultivate present-moment awareness and non-judgemental observation of their experiences. Practices such as meditation and mindful breathing enhance the patient’s psychological flexibility and resilience in stressful, day-to-day challenges.

How Does ACT Work?

ACT depends on the Hexaflex model, which is made up of six core processes:

• Acceptance: The willingness to experience unwanted thoughts and feelings.
• Cognitive Defusion: Patients distancing themselves from unhelpful thoughts. It involves them learning to step back from and observe thoughts without believing or acting on them.
• Contact with the Present Moment: Individuals learning mindfulness and being fully present.
• Self-as-Context: Refers to patients observing oneself as the context for experiences.
• Values: Individuals identify what’s most important to them in life. Clear values will help guide their actions toward achieving their deepest aspirations.
• Committed Action: Patients take purposeful steps in alignment with the aforementioned values.

Interestingly, ACT often employs experiential exercises to illustrate certain concepts. These may include visualization, role-playing, sensory awareness, and time travel exercises.

Who Is ACT For?

The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes ACT as an empirically supported treatment suited to deal with a number of mental health conditions. As such, the therapy can help treat the following issues:

• Depression, anxiety, and chronic pain
• Psychosis
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

ACT is also helpful for those who aren’t able to deal with their problems head-on. In ACT, patients learn how to be more self-compassionate and accept their challenges better.

Choosing the Right Therapy for You at Illinois Recovery Center

At Illinois Recovery Center, we understand that picking the right therapy to treat your or a loved one’s substance abuse disorder can be a dilemma.

We hope that by learning the differences between the most common therapies (DBT vs CBT vs ACT), you have a clearer overview of which psychotherapy is most suited for your needs.

Of course, you can always contact us and have our medical professionals assist you if you still have further questions or concerns.

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Sometimes, you just want to have a drink – maybe because you’re too stressed, or you just want to have some fun with your friends or family although you have a concussion, is it safe to do so? 

Also, did you know that concussion is actually common in the U.S.?

According to the University of Michigan Health’s study, concussions are common among athletes. They discovered that some 3.8 million Americans suffer a concussion due to a sports-related injury yearly. 

Another study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes an estimated 5% to 10% of athletes experienced a concussion in their lifetime. 

Following these published researches, the main reason why you’re here is to look for some answers – so, can you drink alcohol with a concussion tho? 

To answer this question, researchers found that drinking with a concussion could severely impair brain injury recovery, but how come? You might be curious now about the effects of alcohol on your brain functions.Before, getting into that phase, you need to understand better what a concussion is, how a mere head injury affects someone’s life, especially your loved ones, and how it could cause brain damage for anyone who’s a concussion patient – you should read this article.

What Is a Concussion?

For those unfamiliar with the term, a concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) commonly brought on by a jolt, blow, or bump to the head. It can also result from a hit to the body that causes a rapid back-and-forth motion of the head and the brain is. While common across numerous sports, concussions are most common among football players. 

A study published by the University of Pittsburg Medical Center said that around 300,000 of the roughly 3.8 million concussions reported yearly involve football players. That said, concussions are severe injuries that require immediate medical evaluation, treatment, or both. 

Multiple studies show untreated concussions can trigger chemical changes in the brain and even damage brain cells. 

Common concussion symptoms include the following:

• A chronic headache
• Asymmetrical pupils
• Difficulty waking up
• Drowsiness
• Loss of consciousness
• Noticeable changes in behavior
• Poor coordination
• Seizures
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Weakness or numbness
• Confusion or memory loss problem
• Headache, migraines, or pressure in the head

Treatments and Recovery: What Athletes and Everyday People Should Know About Healing After Suffering a Concussion

Whether symptoms are mild or nonexistent, it is always a good idea to be seen by a physician after suffering a concussion or any mild traumatic brain injury. And this could be a primary care physician, neurologist, neurosurgeon, or neuropsychologist. 

Being evaluated by one of these healthcare professionals can help identify or rule out other problems that sometimes go hand in hand with concussions, including hematomas, early-stage Parkinson’s disease, and a fractured skull. 

If a medical professional can rule out these severe complications, most will advise individuals to take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed and to report unusual symptoms or symptoms that persist for too long. They will also cover the three phases of the natural concussion recovery process and explain to individuals what they can expect as they go through each one. Those phases include the following:

• Acute symptomatic phase
• Recovery phase
• Recovered phase

The Relationship Between Alcohol and Concussions

Considering that in every 1 in 8 people in the U.S. have an alcohol use disorder (AUD), it stands to reason that some of these same individuals might be recovering from a concussion. Like football, individuals who drink alcohol excessively have a greater chance of suffering a concussion or another head injury. In a study published by the National Institutes of Health, researchers revealed a substantial proportion of traumatic brain injuries occur when individuals are intoxicated. For this reason, most rehab facilities warn individuals going through an alcohol addiction recovery program of what a return to drinking can do to their psychological health if they haven’t fully recovered from a concussion. In addition to admonishments, many also provide helpful tips for speeding up concussion recovery, some of which include the following:

• Getting plenty of sleep
• Staying hydrated
• Consuming a healthy, well-balanced diet
• Not consuming alcohol
• Avoiding physical and mental overexertion

What Alcohol Does to the Brain of Someone Recovering From a Concussion

Available data shows it takes, on average, 1 to 2 weeks for most people to get through the three phases of concussion recovery. In a study published by the Brain Injury Association of America, a national health organization dedicated to brain injury prevention, research, education, and advocacy, researchers found that drinking during this time severely impairs brain injury recovery. It also negatively impacts cognition, namely when it comes to concentration, problem-solving abilities, memory, and learning, and worsening depressive symptoms or any other pre-existing mental health problems, as the study further revealed. Other studies on concussion recovery and alcohol consumption revealed similar findings, one of which is from MedlinePlus. In that study, researchers note that alcohol can slow down the time it would otherwise take to heal from a concussion. And it doesn’t end there; the same MedlinePlus study notes alcohol puts individuals at greater risk of sustaining other injuries. It also hampers their decision-making abilities.

The CDC and the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center Discuss the Dangers of Consuming Alcohol While Recovering From a Concussion

For those unfamiliar with the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC), it is a resource and information clearinghouse for patients and caregivers run by the American Institutes for Research, one of the world’s largest behavioral and social science research organizations. The organization echoes the sentiments of MedlinePlus and the Brain Injury Association of America; it, too, finds that alcohol worsens the effects of a concussion and slows down the time it takes to heal from one. But it does not stop there; the MSKTC notes that these traumatic brain injuries can put individuals at risk of seizures, which can have some long-term consequences. Some of the more notable of these include losses in visual memory, attention, problem-solving, and perception. Lastly, a CDC study notes that alcohol slows concussion recovery while increasing an individual’s chances of suffering additional head and other bodily injuries.

Reverse Alcohol Tolerance and Concussions

One of the reasons why individuals who haven’t fully recovered from a concussion are at risk of suffering more injuries is reverse alcohol tolerance. For those unfamiliar with it, reverse alcohol tolerance refers to the liver’s inability to produce the enzymes necessary to break down alcohol in an individual’s body. In addition to causing individuals to feel intoxicated after consuming only a few drinks, which leads to issues maintaining balance, reverse alcohol tolerance severely damages the liver. And that opens the door to even more health problems. When someone consumes alcohol, the liver slowly filters it out of the body. And this is why individuals no longer feel inebriated several hours after they’ve stopped drinking. But this filtering process destroys cells in the liver; the more those cells get destroyed, the more likely it is for liver and other health problems to follow, some of which, according to the Mayo Clinic, include the following:

• Alcohol use disorder
• An irregular heartbeat
• Breast cancer
• Cirrhosis and liver cancer
• Heart disease
• Hypertension and stroke
• Oral and upper digestive tract cancers

In summary, one could, in theory, consume alcohol while recovering from a concussion. However, several negative consequences can arise from doing so, some of which are far-reaching. Ideally, it is best to wait for the 1 to 2 weeks it typically takes to recover from a concussion before imbibing. Of course, if someone has an alcohol use disorder that makes it difficult to abstain from alcohol, they’re encouraged to speak with an Illinois Recovery Center associate. These compassionate and knowledgeable associates can recommend an appropriate alcohol addiction recovery program that can help them conquer addiction so that they can heal psychologically and physically.

FAQ

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The liver is the body’s second largest organ. The liver eliminates toxins from the blood, maintains correct blood sugar levels, and performs many other vital functions to keep the body healthy. When someone consumes too much alcohol, scar tissue builds up on the organ. Eventually, proper liver function ceases and may lead to liver failure.

Fortunately, a person’s liver is self-healing. It constantly regenerates. This means that when they quit drinking, it is possible to repair and heal any damage that has occurred. When an individual recognizes a problem, it is imperative to seek assistance. At the Illinois Recovery Center, our team is ready to help people conquer their alcohol addiction to live healthier lives.

How Long Does it Take the Liver to Heal Itself?

Since the liver is constantly regenerating itself, healing can occur quickly. It may commence a few days after a person takes their last drink. However, severe damage that results from years of alcoholism or toxin buildup may take months or years to heal. By following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding toxins, an individual can speed up the liver’s healing process.

Can the Liver Heal Itself from Alcohol Misuse?

A person’s liver is a versatile organ capable of repairing itself. Even after years of heavy drinking, healing can occur. After this organ has returned to normal, drinking responsibly without causing more damage is possible. However, a person must try not to place their liver under too much stress.

Heavy drinkers can develop diseases like alcoholic hepatitis. Luckily, the early stages of alcoholic hepatitis are reversible. It is essential to consult with a physician who can prescribe medicine that lowers inflammation.

On a negative note, severe damage that leads to liver cirrhosis is irreversible. For severe cases, a liver transplant may be recommended to save the person’s life. When a person’s liver goes through scarring, it is likely to remain in that state indefinitely which may lead to more severe diseases like ascites. Even though this is a severe condition, it can be managed when a person quits drinking and seeks medical help.

Signs the Liver is Healing from Alcohol

When a person stops misusing alcohol, their body will enter a withdrawal state. This cleansing of toxins brings unpleasant symptoms to the body. Luckily, in a short amount of time, healing begins. There are specific signs that indicate a person’s liver is healing.

• Heightened Amino Acid Regulation. Since a person’s liver processes proteins, a healthy liver will begin regulating amino acids that the body cannot store. The physical signs that may manifest are bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
• Improved Immunity. A person’s liver is an organ that detects, captures, and cleans bacteria from the body. As it heals, a person will be less likely to contract viruses and similar illnesses.
• Lowered Chance of Hypoglycemia. When people drink too much, their blood sugar can reach dangerous levels. After they begin to heal, the person will have more energy, and their sugar levels will stabilize.
• Better Blood Clotting. When alcohol floods the liver, the production of blood platelets decreases. When the liver becomes healthier, a person will clot easier after a cut, which is the expected response of the body.
• Decreased Risk for Septic Shock. A person’s liver is responsible for filtering the body of toxins. If someone drinks too much, this organ cannot keep bacteria from entering the bloodstream and causing sepsis. When the liver heals, a person has a lower risk of developing this dangerous condition.

Besides the internal improvements, a person will also notice external healing symptoms. For instance, they will have higher energy levels. Since digestive issues will improve, a person may enjoy a stabilized weight and less stomach pain. After the liver is free of toxins, “brain fog” will be lessened.

This means that an individual will perform better at work and will be able to enjoy time with family and friends. Also, their appearance will improve. A person’s eyes and skin will begin to look more lively. When a person questions the health of their liver, a doctor can perform tests to check its condition and function.

How Alcohol Affects the Liver

The liver works by breaking down and eliminating various wastes, including alcohol. A person’s liver breaks down approximately 90 percent of the alcohol consumed. Unfortunately, the liver has its limits and can only manage a certain amount of alcohol at one time.

One drink can take an hour to be processed. Each future drink takes longer. When a person drinks too much, the alcohol is not metabolized and remains in the bloodstream. As a result, they become drunk and experience cognitive issues.

If someone misuses alcohol for long periods, they may have already destroyed liver cells. This leads to scarring and other disorders.

• Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. This condition starts when alcohol intake exceeds a safe dose of alcohol each day, causing fatty deposits in the liver.
• Alcoholic Hepatitis. This form of hepatitis presents as acute liver inflammation. It causes cells to die. It may result in permanent scarring as well.
• Alcoholic Cirrhosis. When a person reaches the worst stage of liver damage, tissues are destroyed. Their liver becomes increasingly scarred, referred to as alcoholic cirrhosis.
• Liver Cancer. Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer because it induces hepatocellular carcinoma (among other cancers) in humans.

How Much Alcohol Can Cause Liver Damage?

New research has studied the effects of alcohol on the liver. The adverse effects depend on a person’s weight, gender, and underlying health conditions. Genetics plays a role as well.

Females absorb more alcohol from each drink, which places them at a higher risk of developing liver diseases. The liver may become damaged after consuming two or three alcoholic beverages daily.

When a person binges drinks or consumes up to five drinks at a time, there is a higher risk of developing liver damage. Individuals who drink excessively for many years are likely to develop alcoholic hepatitis. The longer the drinking persists, a person becomes more likely to develop cirrhosis. Symptoms of liver problems are:

• Liver tenderness
• Unplanned weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Dark urine
• Drowsiness
• Severe liver inflammation causes jaundice and swelling

When is it Time to Stop Drinking?

Many people begin drinking alcohol for fun. Binge drinking may seem not harmful, but it opens many problems that can be harmful in the long run. Binge drinking may form into an addictive habit that is difficult to quit. As of 2019, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health revealed that approximately 15 million people had an alcohol misuse disorder.

When you succumb to alcohol abuse, you build a tolerance for alcohol and up drinking more, leading to substance abuse disorder. Also, you may be making excuses to keep drinking. People around you may notice your physical changes and poor hygiene. Drinking in large amounts for prolonged periods causes negative health consequences. It is essential to seek medical advice from a healthcare provider.

Our staff at Illinois Recovery Center provides successful detox and treatment for alcohol misuse. Our professional addiction treatment facility will minimize withdrawal symptoms and uphold safety throughout the process. Our peaceful environment helps a person focus on a life of sobriety.

When you learn coping mechanisms that keep you on a sober path, you can stay away from alcohol in the long term. As you stop drinking, your body and mind can heal. Let Illinois Recovery Center help you with that. For more information about our services, Contact us today.

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