Opioids Vs. Opiates- Comparison of Drugs with Treatment

The terms “opiate” and “opioids” are frequently interchanged to refer to any pain-relieving medicine that binds to opioid receptors, be it of natural or chemical origin.

An opioid is a drug class of synthetic or semi-synthetic agents for medical contexts, whereas “opiate” applies to opium alkaloids or natural analogs.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, all medications that operate on opiate receptors are classified as opioids irrespective of how they’re synthesized.

Opioids will include illegal narcotic heroin, synthetic opioids like Fentanyl, and legally prescribed painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and many more.

Before things get much more complicated, let’s start with the most contentious comparison: “Opioid vs. Opiates.”

We’ll also go over how both medicines are utilized for therapy and point you in the direction of some expert aid for opioid addiction treatment, so keep reading!

 

How Do We Differentiate Between Opioids and Opiates? 

What Exactly Are Opioids?

According to the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), we can put them under two categories:

Natural opioids are found in nature, derived from the poppy seed of specific plant species. These drugs reduce pain by acting on the body’s nerve receptors.

Synthetic opioids are drugs that operate on the same receptors in the body but are manufactured in a lab. Methadone and Fentanyl are popular synthetic opioids.

Therefore, the word “opioid” applies to both natural and synthetic versions of these molecules.

Then, What Are Opiates?

According to the CDC, “opiates” explicitly refer to natural opioids. Opiates are narcotic drugs that profoundly affect the nervous system, generating sensations of euphoria and relieving pain.

Among the most common medications in this category are:

• Heroin
• Morphine
• Codeine
• Opium

Enkephalins and endorphins are opioid-like substances produced by our bodies. Endogenous opioids give a “natural high” that is not addictive.

 

Addiction Problem

Opioids

Opioids are dangerously addictive due to their potent euphoric effects. One can instantly get dependent on opioids because of their high degree of tolerance.

This implies that when the brain adjusts its function to cope with levels of opioids in blood, eventually, greater dosages are required to get the intended effects.

After some time, there may be a transition in the brain’s structure and functionality, performing better when opioid is present in the bloodstream. As a result, withdrawal symptoms will occur when the medicine is stopped.

These symptoms may be agonizing, and withdrawal usually necessitates a medical detox treatment.

Opiates 

An overdose happens when breathing drops to the extent where there’s an insufficient supply of oxygen to the brain. Even if this is the first time the substance has been misused, there are chances of morphine and heroin overdose.

Even if this is the first time the substance has been misused, there are chances of an overdose, especially when it comes to heroin and morphine.

Codeine, an opiate, is frequently used with Tylenol for cough. However, combining codeine with Tylenol can be dangerous and result in addiction and overdoses, especially when combined with other narcotics.

Opiate abuse can be deadly because of insufficient oxygen to the brain for an extended period.

 

Drug Use Disorder and Prescription Drugs

Most of those hooked on opioids did so after their doctors gave them pain relievers. Whether the individual began misusing the medicine or raised daily doses as the tolerance rose, this resulted in a massive catastrophe that has been ongoing since the early 1990s.

Not everyone prescribed opioids get addicted to or misuse them, but studies show that this is a continuing epidemic worldwide that must be addressed.

Misusing opioids, whether prescribed or illicit, may have catastrophic consequences, causing abuse, addiction, and then death. If you or your loved one is in pain, there is help available.

 

How to Use Opioids Safely

As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, opioid pain drugs are typically safe when taken for a short period or as prescribed by a doctor.

Opioids, on the other hand, can be abused because they provide psycho-active effects and euphoria.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), psychedelics are any chemical that a person consumes or ingests that might impact their mental states, such as sensation, intellect, memory, mood, or emotions.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 71,000 Americans died due to drug overdose in 2019. An opioid was implicated in over 70% of these fatalities.

 

Opioid Addiction Treatment in South Florida

If you or your loved one is struggling with opioids or any form of addiction, you are not alone.

You can reach out for help before it’s too late.

If you are looking for addiction treatment centers in South Florida, there can’t be a better option than The Sands Treatment Center.

To book an appointment or reach out for free consultation, dial (844) 200-2509.

You can also visit their website thesandstreatmentcenter.com for more info.

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Stress of Addiction Treatment on Family

The topic of addiction does grab a lot of attention. There is even a lot of well-documented psychological literature about it, but the negative consequences of an addict on their family still remain concealed to a large extent. 

Many family members and even friends of those who suffer from substance abuse problems often feel a lot of stress and anxiety in their daily lives. 

Too much chronic stress can cause mental health problems, and many may experience a drop in their overall quality of life. 

This is almost a part and parcel of caring for someone going through addiction treatment in South Florida. 

Let’s explore how families of those undergoing addiction treatment, in South Florida, can cope with daily life. 

Healthy Coping Should be Prioritized Instead of Blaming 

Many individuals have had negative encounters with medical professionals who have shown insensitivity towards the family of those suffering from drug addictions. 

This has led many families to stop seeking professional help and just manage by themselves. 

It is easy to judge family members and blame them for causing trauma, such as neglect or domestic abuse, which pushes individuals towards drugs or other types of addictions. 

Many of these are assumptions that medical professionals make without considering family dynamics. 

This has created a need for supportive interventions, and many options have become available one of which is group therapy, which helps support family members instead of trying to diagnose them. 

As a result of this, many families today have options to seek out compassionate and caring services that can help them vent or cope with the struggles of daily life. 

Addiction treatment is difficult for family members, especially since blood bonds are tied closer than friendships. 

When stress becomes chronic, this can negatively impact all avenues of an individual’s life. It can get frustrating to watch your loved one who is undergoing treatment fall into the same cycles of self-destructive behaviors. 

Blame and labeling become the norm, and families lack the necessary coping strategies to be compassionate towards each other. They oftentimes snap and project their difficulties onto others. 

Support Resources 

There are many services available that families of individuals suffering from substance abuse problems can avail of to manage their stress and tension. Usually, it includes family therapy and group meetings with other people going through a similar phase of stress and anxiety. 

Many families decide to put on a brave face. Still, sometimes it is important to talk things out so that you don’t propagate any toxic emotions and ill feelings toward others internally. 

Twelve-Step programs are pretty common, helpful, and practical in helping families cope with stress from substance abuse. 

You can visit their websites and get all the details you need to start going to group sessions that can help you cope on a daily basis. 

Children are not charged any money for attending these meetings, and families can attend together if they wish to do so. 

Some family members may choose to visit a therapist in a one-on-one setting. Many psychological models exist in the literature to help people cope with such issues, which the therapist can implement. 

As evidenced by the literature, one of the particularly effective models is the stress-strain-coping-support model. 

This model is useful because it helps the family members create healthy coping strategies instead of trying to diagnose them with any psychological disorders. 

Even if families cannot afford many of these treatments, research has shown that families that participate in one meeting or single session with a therapist or counselor seek to benefit greatly. 

This allows them to deal with the stress in their daily lives as they learn to navigate this new and tricky terrain without losing themselves in the process. 

Causes of Stress 

Many family members start to self-blame once they learn of their loved one’s drug addiction. 

They wish to know exactly which trigger or stressor pushed them to start taking drugs and what they could have done differently. 

Families must learn to stop all the self-blame, as addiction can happen to anyone, and it is not necessarily their fault. 

Self-blame is also very impractical, as it tires you out as well as damages your psyche, but does not offer any solution. 

You can try to figure out the cause all you want, but it is not that simple to isolate the exact trauma that pushed individuals to start dabbling in drugs. 

The past is only sometimes relevant, and people can make life decisions that are not based on trauma. 

If individuals grow up spoiled and get shielded from the realities of life, then their tolerance to stress is minimal and they then become vulnerable to addiction. 

Looking at it optimistically, it is an opportunity to develop tolerance because suffering shapes character. 

Final Verdict 

Families undergoing hardships and suffering from chronic stress should be supported instead of diagnosed. It is also crucial that families seek out professional help instead of trying to cope or manage by themselves, as this can propagate the problem. 

To know more you can contact The Sands Treatment Center and speak to our experts. We offer families the support they need to help them cope with the stressors in daily life. To schedule a consultation you can call Call: (844) 200-2509 today.

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Examples of Drug Treatment

Addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all; it varies based on your needs. You have the right to choose the treatment that works best for you depending on the substance you’re abusing, the extent of care you need, your mental health needs, or options you can afford  

As it is a chronic disease, people can’t stop using drugs for a few days and be cured. It requires long-term or repeated care to stop using drugs and recover their lives. 

With the progression of widespread drug abuse, various medical organizations collaborating with healthcare practitioners have successfully devised numerous treatment methods to treat drug addiction.  

Many Drug Treatment Centers and Rehabilitation Care Facilities have designed specialized programs to help addicts attain sobriety and redeem from compulsive drug-seeking.   

This article will highlight some examples of successful drug treatment; read on to find out.  

Treatment Methods 

Addiction can be treated using a variety of evidence-based methods. Behavioral therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), medicines, or a combination of the two can be used.  

The treatment or mix of treatments used will depend on the patient’s specific needs and, in many cases, the drugs they take. 

Behavioral Therapy 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of Psychotherapy method that may be used to treat a variety of addictions such as drug abuse, addiction of alcohol, food addiction, and even prescription drug addiction. 

CBT can help you recognize undesirable behavioral patterns, learn to recognize triggers and establish coping mechanisms. It can also be used in conjunction with other treatments. 

Medication 

When paired with behavioral therapy, medication can play a significant role in recovering from chronic drug addictions. 

Certain drugs could help with cravings, withdrawal symptoms, assertive mood, and addictive tendencies. For instance, FDA has just approved Lofexidine to treat patients seeking help for opioid addiction to lessen cravings and withdrawal symptoms. 

Various antidotes and tranquilizers are used along with psychotherapy in the ongoing treatment and palliative care for drug addictions. 

Twelve-Step Facilitation therapy 

Alcohol and substance misuse can be treated with 12-step facilitation treatment. It’s a type of group therapy that acknowledges that addiction has a variety of negative repercussions, including social anxiety, emotional dependence, spiritual discomfort, and health deterioration.  

Acceptance is the first step in this therapy method, followed by submission to a higher power, and finally, participation in regular group sessions. The 12 –step facilitation therapy is offered in various reputable Drug Treatment Centers. 

Detoxification 

Detoxification with medical assistance allows you to clear your body of addictive chemicals safely. This is advantageous because substance withdrawal can occasionally result in painful or life-threatening symptoms. 

The detoxification process drains out the triggering substances from the bloodstream that subtle down the withdrawal effect triggered by the brain. Detox is usually used in conjunction with other therapies because it does not address the underlying behavioral causes of addiction. 

Contingency management 

Contingency Management (CM) is used to treat a range of addictions, including alcoholism, drug addiction, and nicotine addiction. 

In Contingency management therapy, an individual is rewarded for their positive behavior towards recovery. This approach develops a psychological sense of achievement and encourages a person to attain sobriety.  

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, this treatment has proved beneficial to counter relapse in drug addicts successfully.  

Rehabilitation Program 

Rehabilitation is a longer-term treatment program for substance abuse and addiction, and they usually focus on staying drug-free and resuming social, professional, and familial duties. 

Licensed and insured rehabilitation services are available to design a 24-hour care program to provide secure accommodation and any medical interventions needed with day-to-day counseling. 

Rehab programs are often classified based on acute and chronic addictions. 

• Partial Hospitalization Program is also known as inpatient rehabilitation for patients with acute symptoms who may not need 24-hour medical care. 

• Resident Rehab Programs mostly treat patients with chronic symptoms and may need treatment for weeks or months. 

Drug Treatment Center at Pompano Beach, Florida 

Addictions have ruined many lives. Don’t let this happen to you or the ones you love. Don’t fight this battle alone and speak with a healthcare professional right away. There are effective treatments available to assist you in overcoming your addiction. 

If you live in Florida near Pompano Beach and are looking for a Drug Treatment Centre in your vicinity, The Sand Treatment Center can help you with exceptional medical facilities. They have some skilled Healthcare Practitioners that offer various supportive therapies to combat drug addiction. They are 24/7 available at 2100 Park Central Blvd N Suite 900, Pompano Beach, FL 33064. 

To book an appointment right away, call 844 200-2509, or visit their website: https://thesandstreatmentcenter.com/.   

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5 Tips for Staying Sober

If you are recovering from substance abuse, you already know how hard it was to get here. Having a relapse is the last thing on your mind, but it’s more common than you think. 40% to 60% of addicts relapse during the first year of their recovery. 

The new “you” is raw, sensitive, and vulnerable. You are constantly worried about what people think. After all, your old destructive personality left a significant impact on you and your loved ones. Without mood-altering substances, life got real, and you are having a hard time coping with stress and emotions. Therefore, we have written this guide to staying sober so that you can maintain a healthy lifestyle free from mood and mind-altering substances for good. 

How to Stay Sober After Addiction Treatment

You are trying to let go of the past and look at the future. However, your chances of a successful recovery depend on honesty, willingness, and acceptance. Through the best Intensive Outpatient Program, South Florida residents affected by addiction can begin their journey towards healing. They can talk about their struggles, how they have overcome challenges, and share their feelings instead of going through it all alone. 

• Join a Support Group

The first step of changing your habits is accepting you have a problem. It’s okay to talk about your urges. Addiction is a disease, and recovery takes time. Even after spending several months at a rehabilitation center in South Florida, you might not feel confident enough to let go of your past. You need inspiration, and, therefore, joining a support group is your best chance of staying sober. 

A support group is a fellowship of men and women who share your experience. Listening to their stories will motivate you to stay sober. If you hide your feelings and distance yourself from society, your chances of relapse increase by 40%. 

• Live in the Present 

The best practice for staying sober is to live life one day at a time. But when you are struggling, 24 hours seem like forever. This happens when you are fighting your demons alone. It would be best to let go of your past to focus on the present and prepare for the future. Staying sober isn’t easy, but planning for a better future is. Ask for guidance, take deep breaths, and recall your reasons for staying sober. This exercise will give you the strength you need to counter the negative thoughts in your mind. 

• Acknowledge Your Weak Points

You just went through a radical change. Everything seems different since you are sober. However, if you indulge yourself in the same stressful activities as before, your chances of relapse will increase. Revamp your schedule, friends circle, and sleep cycle. 

In your first few years, you need to stay away from places that break your spirit. Try to keep a safe distance from drugs and alcohol. Become aware of your triggers and try to control them. Focus on yourself and forget about the world. Soon, you will develop a strong personality that will fight toxic people and negative thoughts. 

• Control Your Urges 

During the first few years post-recovery, you will encounter urges. These temptations will try to lure you into the world you stepped out of. While most urges last for 15 to 30 minutes, some can be overwhelming. You might try substitutes like chewing gum or meditation, but they won’t keep you sober for long. 

Remember, staying sober is a constant battle between you and your urges. So, the best way to stay sober is to keep yourself busy. Find a job that consumes your entire day, leaving you tired and sleepy. 

• Follow Your Passion 

If you had a passion before you submitted to substance abuse, it’s time to pursue it. When you occupy yourself with a routine that keeps you happy, your brain releases a chemical called endorphin. This chemical strengthens your resolve and keeps you motivated to stay sober. Follow your passion and forget about your past because you have been gifted with a new life. 

Ending Note 

Staying sober is more challenging than quitting your addiction. Most addicts relapse within the first year of their recovery because they forget why they chose sobriety. Keeping yourself away from your danger zones and staying stress-free is key to sobriety. 

If you know someone struggling with substance abuse, recommend them a good rehabilitation center in Florida. The Sands Treatment Center is an excellent rehabilitation facility with expertise and knowledge in the treatment of professionals. They offer both outpatient and in-patient treatment plans. You can schedule a call by dialing (844) 200-2509. Visit the Sands Treatment Center website for more details.

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How Can You Benefit From a Drug Treatment Center in South Florida?

Addiction is not an easy disease to fight. It takes a lot of willpower and resources to achieve sobriety and maintain it for the long term. However, entering a drug treatment center in South Florida makes the process a little easier. Not only does a drug treatment center give patients the resources they need to maintain sobriety, but they create a community. 

 

Patients can find it much easier and motivating to continue their journey when others around them are on the same path. At The Sands Treatment Center, we understand how difficult of a decision it is to enter treatment. However, treatment can benefit you and play a positive role in your life. If you are unsure if you should consider drug rehabilitation, keep reading! Our team explores the benefits of drug rehabilitation along with who can gain from our program.

 

Who Can Benefit from a Drug Treatment Center in South Florida?

First and foremost, it doesn’t take being addicted to a substance to enter a rehabilitation program, especially if it’s outpatient rehab. 

 

Anyone who believes that they give substances too much power can benefit from a treatment centers resources. The beauty of outpatient rehab is that you are in control of your schedule. 

 

Whether you want to go to addiction treatment once a week or multiple times a week, it’s ultimately up to you. Furthermore, outpatient rehab allows patients to work, go to school, and maintain other responsibilities.

Substance Addiction

Anyone who feels they have a substance addiction can benefit from the programs offered at our drug treatment center. The idea of rehabilitation and treatment programs is to help addicts get clean. The goal is sobriety in the long term. 

 

Our treatment program works with addicts to get to the root cause of the addiction and understand more about addiction. The more knowledge someone has on the disease, the better they can tackle it. 

 

Included in treatment are different types of therapy, too. The therapy sessions can help guests work through bad habits and change their behavior. Addiction treatment isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible with the right treatment center in South Florida.

Dependency

Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t take having a full-fledged addiction to need treatment. Anyone who believes that they are becoming dependent or abusing a substance can check themselves into rehab. And outpatient rehab at The Sands Treatment Center is the perfect form of treatment. 

 

When most people are dependent on a drug or substance, they function as everyday people. They go to work, take care of their kids, and look presentable. The stereotypical persona of an addict isn’t the case. But, even those dependent and not addicted can spiral out of control. It doesn’t take long for drugs to consume someone’s life. But with a drug treatment center in South Florida, those who feel that a drug is starting to take hold of their life can stop the problem in its tracks. 

 

Tackling dependency before it turns into addiction is key.

 

Sobriety Maintenance

The sobriety journey is never over. It’s a lifelong journey that will always require some effort on your part. That is why those who completed inpatient rehab usually join an outpatient program. 

 

The outpatient program is low-maintenance while still ensuring the ex-addict is seeking treatment. Temptation is always there and never goes away. No matter how long you have been sober, it’s never a bad idea to continually seek treatment. 

 

With The Sands Treatment Center’s outpatient rehab program, you can attend therapy and treatment sessions on your schedule.

Contact Us Today to Learn More

To learn more about The Sands Treatment Center and our many rehabilitation programs, visit our website https://thesandstreatmentcenter.com. 

 

Whether outpatient rehab is right for you or not, we have other programs for you to consider. There is no one size fits all treatment program. That is why we have options for you or your loved one. 

 

Are you looking to get started as soon as possible? 

Give our drug treatment center a call today at (954) 526-6400. We can help you or your loved one get registered and started on their treatment program.

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The Common Signs Addiction and how Addiction Treatment in South Florida Can Help You

When most people think of addiction, they envision addicts that are strung out on illegal drugs and will do anything to get them. Instead, it involves various substances, and identifying it can be difficult with the addict appearing and claiming to be normal. Regardless of their social status or even if they are a productive citizen; failing to address it makes things worse. The person struggling with substance abuse should consider addiction treatment in South Florida to learn how to manage and remedy the root causes. 

 

The best way to assist them is to know the signs of addiction, treatments, and the most effective ways of encouraging them to get help. Keep reading to learn more.   

 

The Common Signs of Addiction

Addiction has distinct signs that show the person is facing challenges with it to include cravings, disinterest, and a lack of control. Any counselor at an addiction treatment center in South Florida will tell you that it starts innocently. The addict feels good when using drugs, alcohol, and other substances that release dopamine and chemicals from the brain. It instills a reward system where they receive benefits from their abuse, making their addiction more common. 

 

Cravings are when they feel they can’t live without the substances to feel accepted, relaxed, and happy. Then the addict starts trying to get the feelings from their first experience and increase them. After a while, they need more of these substances to get the same “high” and feel like themselves. 

 

Disinterest is when the addict no longer wants to do activities and things they once found enjoyable. The brain is not producing as much dopamine to create these triggers, and they need to use the substance to feel normal. The result is the person is more interested in using the substances versus doing the activities they enjoyed. 

 

The loss of control occurs when the person can no longer stop using substances to feel normal. It impacts their health, personal relationships, education, and their jobs, with them refusing to seek out assistance. Sometimes, they will try to quit but this doesn’t always work without the help of addiction treatment centers. 

 

A Chemical Dependency and the Substances

Modern medicine describes drug, alcohol, inhalant, and nicotine dependency as a substance abuse disorder that impacts the mind and body. Experts state how society often stigmatizes those as addicts or classifies abuse without understanding what is happening. They assume the person can easily stop and move on with their life, with no problem, using willpower and discipline. 

 

The reality is that there is a chemical dependency, and the person is suffering from a disease. They need to visit an addiction treatment center in South Florida that can help them understand what is happening and learn ways to address it. 

 

The Types of Addiction Treatment in South Florida

Treating someone who has a dependency requires working with trained professionals at an addiction treatment center in South Florida. They use different programs that help the person to understand the problem and control it. There are several types of therapies used to include inpatient and outpatient treatment. 

 

Inpatient treatment is when the addict checks into a facility and stays there for a select amount of time. They go through a structured program where they are waned off the substances using other medications, support groups, psychotherapy, and in-person counseling. 

 

After completing the inpatient program, they go to outpatient therapy, where they meet with a support group and have a mentor. They help the individual to learn to cope with their addiction and find ways to avoid relapsing. Sometimes, the addict will go to outpatient treatment first if their issues are not severe. It helps them learn coping strategies and feel like they are not alone when controlling these urges while also maintaining their life off-campus. 

 

The Sands Treatment Center Can Help

Addiction treatment in South Florida is the best approach for dealing with substance abuse and assisting the person in making lasting changes. Call the Sands Treatment Center at 954-526-6400 and see how you can use their experience and expertise to beat addiction.

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Addiction Treatment Information That Can Help You Decide What’s Best for You!

If you have acknowledged your addiction and are seeking treatment, you haven’t lost the will to fight and that’s great news. Let us help you in the battle to stop this disease from destroying your life and the lives of the people you love. We offer the best outpatient addiction treatment services in South Florida and we can help you on your path to sobriety.

 

You are probably scared and think your drug addiction is a fight that you cannot win. Trust us, with the right people on your side, anything can be overcome. The Sands Treatment Center in Pompano Beach provides you with every weapon you need to fight this disease. We offer several customized outpatient addiction treatment options to ensure you can be successful.

 

Just a little knowledge about the basics will make your choice for addiction treatment that much easier. Let’s start with what kinds of addiction treatment The Sands Treatment Center can offer you. We offer treatment for drug addiction and can focus specifically on opioid addiction treatment. We also specialize in the treatment of alcohol addiction. Another aspect of treatment that we offer is for people suffering from PTSD.

 

Let’s now get into it and review some of the most frequently asked questions you probably have about addiction treatment.

How Does Addiction Treatment Work?

Rehab is structured as either an inpatient or outpatient service. The Sands Treatment Center specializes in outpatient treatment programs. These programs are designed for someone who has already completed an inpatient stay. This provides you with flexibility for treatment that can work within your schedule. 

Is Outpatient Treatment The Right Choice For Me?

If you have already received inpatient treatment but still feel you might not be ready to face all the challenges life can throw at you, then outpatient is the right treatment option. You will need to be honest with yourself when making this decision though. 

Decide if you still need some help facing the demons inside that might be pulling you towards relapse. If you live in South Florida and are seeking outpatient addiction treatment call us today to get started. 

What Kind Of Options Are Available For Outpatient Treatment?

 

PHP Day/Night Treatment

PHP stands for “Partial Hospitalization Program”. This addiction treatment service is a short form of intensive rehab. It’s a step down from residential treatment for those who still have more work to do on their addiction recovery.

 

This service is 6 hours a day, 5 days a week. We will give you the tools to help you maintain your sobriety. Life skills such as how to manage your money and time are essential to addiction treatment. 

Intensive Outpatient Program

Also known as IOP, this program is at minimum 3 hours a day, 3 days a week. We offer group therapy sessions to help you learn from people just like you. Professional one-on-one counseling is also offered if needed. IOP treatment is administered by counselors and healthcare professionals. 

 

This type of treatment isn’t just for alcohol and drug addiction. We also offer IOP services if you suffer from PTSD. It’s not just for veterans, this mental illness can affect anyone who has experienced a traumatic event in their lives and this treatment option is available to anyone.

Outpatient Program

The outpatient program (OP) is an effective solution for those who no longer need long-term inpatient treatment. It will save you money since we won’t be charging you rooming fees, and you will be able to see your support system of family and friends more often. Sometimes the ones you love are the best tool in addiction treatment and recovery and if this is a factor for you, outpatient treatment may be best.

 

The Sands Treatment Center Can Help!

You’ll be able to get back to the great things that life offers while still getting the help you need. We will treat your “Whole Self” using holistic therapy treatments. This method of treatment helps you confront the unhealthy and dangerous thoughts that contribute to your drug addiction. 

 

Are you still battling with the disease of addiction even after inpatient treatment? For consistent addiction therapy with schedule flexibility, we are the solution!

Call The Sands Treatment Center in Pompano Beach, FL at (954) 526-6400.

 

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Secrets to Getting the Most Out of the 12-Step Program

Since it began in the 1930s, the 12-step program has changed millions of lives for the better. This set of guidelines has helped many individuals overcome their addiction, whether it be drugs, alcohol, or other vices. The 12 step program goes beyond advising individuals to attend an outpatient program, such as Alcoholics Anonymous; but emphasizes the importance of attendance, working with a sponsor, and going through the steps completely. 

People who are early in their recovery and don’t know what their next step should be may benefit most from joining a 12-step program for recovery maintenance. Many treatment facilities incorporate some model of the 12-step program, including our drug treatment center in South Florida.

Although the program is a push in the right direction, attending meetings does not guarantee success. It’s important that you work hard to accomplish your personal goals. 

So, how can you make the most out of the program? Here, we provide a few suggestions that we have seen work for other individuals.

Participation 

When you attend the meetings, it’s important to listen to others and hear their stories. It will show that you are not alone in your struggle. Sobriety is a battle, but in these meetings, you have an army. 

However, to get the most out of the program, it’s important to give back to the group. Share your own story of addiction. Not only will you better connect with the other members, but participation can also help you to grow. The medical staff at our drug treatment center in South Florida understands that recovery is difficult: spiritually, mentally, and physically. But if you don’t put in the work, you can significantly lessen your chance of success.

Find a Sponsor 

Sponsorship is a fundamental part of the 12-step program. You need someone who has been in your shoes and is patient, compassionate, and can provide hope that better days will come. Much like in the meetings, your sponsor will share his/her personal story and experience, and you will do the same. The goal is that, with time, you will feel more confident about recovery and realize that you are not alone.

The sponsor/beneficiary exchange is a relationship, and like with every relationship, you must build trust and be supportive. We have found that the best way to find a good sponsor is to look for someone who has the following attributes:

• Has experience helping others and has been sober for at least one year.
• Is respectful and supportive with a positive attitude.
• Can meet your expectations and can work with you during any time of the day.
• Is not physically attractive to you, and vice versa.

Before you have found a sponsor, and during your sponsorship, remember that the medical staff at our drug treatment center in South Florida will also be there to help you.

Good Attendance 

Another part of putting in the work to get the most out of the program is to attend meetings consistently. Don’t show up only when you feel like it, as this can result in missing several meetings. You need to participate fully and completely, and that includes having good attendance.

Always Apply the Steps 

Every day during your addiction recovery in South Florida, work the 12 steps. This won’t be so hard but it is necessary. Just consider the 12 steps: it talks about faith (whether in a higher power or your fellow man), soul searching, acceptance and humility. We can all benefit from these principles daily so there is no harm in implementing them, even when you are feeling better. If you want to create a few of your own steps, do so. It can only make your recovery more successful.  

Help Others 

Those who know, teach. As you go through the 12-step program, you will learn a lot along the way. If you see someone who is new to the program, help to guide them along the right path. Encourage them along their journey. You can also help others outside of the program. You can volunteer or donate to a charity. By helping others, you can find happiness and fulfillment.

The Sands Treatment Center 

If you are in recovery from substance addiction or behavioral addiction, contact our drug treatment center in South Florida. Here at The Sands Treatment Center, we have knowledgeable staff available around the clock who have years of experience dealing with addiction treatment and solutions.

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