IV Drug Use - Relapse Prevention Tips

IV (Intravenous) drug use is one of the quickest means of getting a substance into the body - to the brain - and producing a “high”. As such, many drug users find themselves opting for hypodermic needle injections to help streamline their addictions. Unfortunately, it often takes a little longer for these types of users to maintain sobriety following a successful recovery stint. In this entry, we will discuss some tips to help avoid IV drug relapse.

Hobbies

One of the most effective ways to combat relapse is finding a hobby to throw yourself into. Idle hands often turn to old habits. The more time you spend thinking about using, the more likely you are to act. What may initially prove a simple distraction, may ultimately become an entirely new passion or outlet.

Triggers

Do your best to avoid relapse triggers. These can include places, people and even smells that remind you of prior use. It is especially crucial to avoid areas or neighborhoods where you previously used or bought drugs.

Relationships

Weed out the negative and discouraging relationships from when you were using and focus your attention on people with goals and ambition! Though it can be tempting to rehash “the good times” with old pals, the risks associated with it far outweigh any good. If these people are really your friends, they will understand and support your decision. 

Paraphernalia

Items such as pipes or needles have no purpose anymore. Make sure to rid your property of any and all drug supplies, taking care to ensure that any used needles are disposed of properly.

Support

Locating and attending local support groups on a regular basis is a wonderful means of affirmation and support for the recovering addict. Groups like NA or AA offer training, education, and guidance to those looking to maintain a clean, happy and healthy lifestyle.

Help

If you or someone you love is suffering from a drug addiction, Above It All treatment center is the place to call. Pick up the phone today, and let our team of addiction specialists help you back on track towards the life you deserve. 

All About Heroin Drug Rehab

If you or someone you love is considering heroin drug rehab to combat an addiction, having a basic understanding regarding what to expect from the experience is key in achieving a safe and successful outcome. While the road ahead is far from easy, there is hope to those who seek it. In this entry, we will discuss what to expect from a drug rehab experience.

Meds

Medications are commonly utilized to help alleviate discomfort and side effects associated with heroin withdrawal. Many heroin rehab centers provide patients with access to medications such as buprenorphine and methadone in an effect to wean the addict from the heroin, while working to ensure a safe and comfortable transition into recovery.

Therapy

In addition to medications, a heroin rehab will employ a variety of behavioral treatments to help place a focus on the root and nature of the addiction. Therapists will also work to educate patients as to ideal coping skills to use outside of the program to help avoid the risk of relapse.

Residential Programs

Residential programs afford addicts the ability to remain at a facility for a period of 1 – 6 months, depending on the extent of the addiction. Residential programs tend to have higher success rates in patients with escalated drug issues by removing the individual from their comfort zone and immersing them in a comprehensive treatment plan, catered to their individual needs and goals.

Court Orders

Court ordered treatment can be extremely effective in helping an addict turn their behaviors around. When faced with potential legal consequences, many individuals opt for treatment to avoid possible probation and jail time. Court orders also serve in preventing a return to criminal behavior, especially in instances where the individual continues receiving treatment following their release back into the community.