Bath Salts – The Ugly Truth

With the media, social feeds and dinner tables abundant in Zombie apocalypse discussion following the recent Miami bath salts attack, exaggerations and rumor have paved the way for added curiosity and experimentation regarding bath salts use. In an effort to dispel the myths and communicate the dangers associated with bath salts use, we have dedicated this entry to the facts surrounding it. Read on to learn more:

“Bath Salts” is just the newest in a long line of designer drug fads that young people can ingest to get high. The substance comes in a powder form, and can still be purchased online and in many head shops throughout the country. Due to the fact that these substances are so new to the drug scene, our knowledge surrounding their chemical makeup and potential side effects is still limited. However, the small amount of information we do possess is striking enough to warrant a public stance on the issue.

Most, if not all bath salts contain chemicals similar to those found in amphetamines, such as mephedrone, methylenedioxyprovalerone and pyrovalerone. Of the aforementioned chemicals, mephedrone is of particular concern, due to an imposed high risk of overdose. Users are able to administer the drug via inhalation, injection or orally as desired. Cravings for the drug following extended use periods is not uncommon, with many specialists citing addictive tendencies in recent case studies.

Bath salts provide the user with a condition police have begun calling an “excited delirium” – which includes unpredictable, paranoid and violent behaviors. Such is the infamous case in Miami last month, where police were forced to shoot and kill an unarmed man, allegedly eating the face of another homeless man in broad daylight.

As it stands, Bath Salts have been linked to numerous ER visits throughout the US and North America. Clinicians and physicians at various poison control centers have indicated that bath salt use can lead to a variety of adverse effects, including increased blood pressure, agitation, chest pains, increase heart rate, delusions, extreme paranoia and vivid hallucinations. With the recent media blitz fixated on the topic, these numbers are likely only to rise with time. In fact, the number of poison control calls regarding bath salts rose a staggering 6,138 in 2011 from 304 in 2010. And 2012 is well on it’s way to breaking even that number.

A variety of states, and even Canada have approved legislation to ban the sale and use of bath salts, and many other areas are following suit. If you know of someone with an addiction to bath salts, a quick call to our Above It All treatment specialists is all you need to get them on track towards the help they deserve.

What is Devils Breath?

Devils Breath (or Scopolamine) is a prescription medication used to manage and address the symptoms associated with motion sickness, including nausea and vomiting. The drug may also be prescribed post surgery to patients suffering from nausea caused by aesthesia. But just as with any medication, a variety of possible side effects can occur with prolonged use and/or abuse.

In recent years, Scopolamine has gained a reputation in Columbia as a “zombie drug” due the debilitating and hallucinogenic effects it has on its users. In this entry, we will outline some of the side effects and dangers associated its use.

Common Side Effects

The following side effects are typically not seen as abnormal in patients taking the drug as prescribed. Most patients find that their bodies adapt to the effects of the medication over time. These common effects include dry mouth, blurry vision, dizziness, flushing, and a feeling of lightheadedness.

Additional Side Effects

In addition to the side effects referenced above, a number of potentially serious side effects can be linked to use of Devils Breath. These effects include urination issues, confusion, rapid or irregular heartbeat, extreme dry mouth, speaking troubles, disorientation, drastic changes in mood or thought patterns, hallucinations and extreme drowsiness. Individuals found experiencing these types of symptoms are encouraged to seek immediate emergency medical attention.

Allergic Reactions

An allergic reaction is often viewed as an additional serious side effect of Devils Breath use. Common signs associated with a Scopolamine allergic reaction include tightness in the chest area, breathing issues, skin rashes, itchiness, hives, and swelling throughout the face. Individuals found to be suffering from such a reaction are encouraged to seek out medical attention as soon as possible.

Words Of Caution

Individuals with a history of kidney, liver or heart disease; bladder issues; glaucoma; urination difficulties; enlarged prostate or stomach obstructions are encouraged to avoid use at all costs. Failure to do so may hold the potential for added complications and risks.

Overdose

In cases of overdose, emergency medical attention must be sought out immediately. Some common overdose signs include dizziness, seizures or convulsions, agitation, excitability, hallucinations, a feeling of lightheadedness and coma. In severe cases, users may even pose the risk of death.

Help!

Aside from its medical purposes, Scopolamine is not a substance intended for long-term or recreational use. If you or someone you know is suffering from addictive tendencies towards this medication, our Above It All addiction treatment counselors are available to help. Call today to educate yourself on our available treatment options and recovery plans and get on track toward the happy, fulfilling and sober lifestyle you deserve.

Reach out to us a non-judgemental, motivating member of our team will contact you to help get you back on the road to the life you want and deserve.

Call us at (877) 574-0177 or submit this quick form. 

More on the Alcoholic and Acceptance

“AA and acceptance has taught be there is a bit of good in the worst of us and a bit of bad in the best of us, that we are children of god, and we each have a right to be here. When I complain about me or about you, I am complaining about god’s handy work. I am saying that I know better than god. For years I was sure the worst thing that could happen to a nice guy like me would be I would turn out to be an alcoholic. Today I find it’s the best thing that has ever happened to me. This proves I don’t know what’s good. And if I don’t know what’s good for me then I don’t know what’s good for or bad for you or for anyone… before AA I judged myself by my intentions, while the world was judging me by my actions.” Acceptance Was the Answer pg. 418 from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Leave it to alcoholics to always think we know best. What’s best for us, what’s best for others, what are the best choices for god to make for us? We are always trying to control everything, always trying to manipulate our environment to fit our expectations. It isn’t until we let go, fully surrender, and receive alcohol addiction help that we start to realize we don’t know what is best for us or our loved ones. We learn in places such as, a 30 day rehab, AA, or an affordable rehab how to get to the place where we can turn it over and realize that there are bigger and better things planned for us then our small plans we have for ourselves.

Acceptance (Part 1)

An acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing, or situation- some fact of my life- unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing, or situation as being exactly the way it is suppose to be at this moment. Nothing, absolutely nothing, happens in god’s will by mistake. Until I could accept my alcoholism, I could not stay sober; unless I accept life completely on life’s terms I cannot be happy. I need to concentrate not so much on what needs to be changed in the world as on what needs to be changed in me and on my attitudes.

When we first get sober there is potentially a lot of willingness and desperation, but very little acceptance. Most of us are full of fear when we get sober. How are we suppose to accept life on life’s terms sober when the only way we know how to live and cope is through drinking and using? The whole idea of acceptance is a hard thing to grasp when first seeking alcohol addiction help. It is something that we can begin to understand fully and incorporate into our everyday lives the longer we stay sober through the help of places like an addiction program in Los Angeles, AA, or other forms of 12 step program addiction help. Once we learn how to truly accept things we can begin to appreciate the blessings we do have in life. Instead of worrying about what we don’t have or what we have lost we can begin to live in the moment and be grateful for what we do have.

How To Maintain Your Sobriety

When it comes to recovery, achieving sobriety is often said to be the easy part; staying sober is the real challenge. Though the withdrawal and rehabilitation process is often difficult for many addicts, the lessons learned within our treatment facility will do little if not implemented daily following your release. In this entry, we will discuss how to maintain your sobriety following your rehab treatment completion.

1 – One simple rule: Don’t use. If you do not ingest, snort, smoke, etc. you will not become inebriated. While this rule may seem simple and self-explanatory in regard to relapse prevention, it is often one of the hardest rules to follow. As such, there will be no “for old time’s sake”, or “just a taste”. If you don’t pick up your addiction, the cycle will remain stagnant.

2 – Find yourself some positive support outside of the Above It All substance abuse rehabilitation facility. Though our counselors will always be available to help you through the hard times, it’s important to immerse yourself within an environment that caters to your drive and determination to remain sober. Select hobbies and activities that boost confidence and increase your self-esteem. The more active you are, the better you’ll feel. The better you feel, the more likely you’ll be able to maintain your sobriety.

3 – Set some goals. From alcohol drug detox to program completion, you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on past experiences and the mistakes that have been made. Use these ask a guide to better yourself following rehab. A plan of action will keep you focused, determined and driven to succeed. By choosing your goals ahead of time, you’ll have less opportunity to question your sobriety and decisions moving forward.

4 – Keep an eye our for triggers. Different times of the year can be more stressful and difficult than others. When these dates approach, be sure to place yourself in a supportive environment with people who are sympathetic to your sobriety. Hit up AA meetings and avoid putting yourself in situations or around individuals that may trigger negative emotions. Stay positive and remain strong. This too shall pass.

5 – Go easy on yourself. Recovery is never an easy process. If you fall down, take the opportunity to learn from your mistake and get back on track. Never give up on your goals and fight the good fight. Your recovery may not be as graceful as you might have thought, but as long as you stay in the game, the rewards remain the same.

 

What To Do After Rehab

Following your release from Above It All, you may be anxious in regard to the direction you should head next. In order to achieve the happy and fulfilling lifestyle you’re after, you’ll need to place a heavy emphasis on implementing the lessons learned throughout your substance abuse rehabilitation experience. If you do not continue your efforts once you’ve arrived home, the chances of maintaining your sobriety will quickly diminish. In this entry, we will offer up a few tips to help you through the transition from rehab back to everyday life.

Therapy

Locate a support group. Hop online and search for local 12-step meetings in your area. Most every region has meetings available, and membership is free of charge. Consider asking your Above It All addiction counselor for a recommendation on area groups. Not only will these meetings help maintain your commitment to sobriety, but they often provide members with a forum to express themselves openly while meeting and engaging with new friends.

Financial Rehab

Obtain a job that does not require you to handle alcohol or drugs. Your addiction counselor and family should be able to point you in the direct direction, but you must be driven to work. Sit yourself down and write out a plan to help pay off your expenses and debt. Stick to your plan, keeping a budget and paying off your debts one by one over time.

Relationship Rehab

Write out a list of the people that have been hurt by your actions prior to obtaining drug and alcohol addiction help. Next to each name, jot down the ways in which you hurt the individual, along with a way to rectify the situation. It’s important to note that not every situation may be fixable. In certain instances, the only way to make things right is to focus on your recovery, and show the individual how you’ve changed.

Sober Living

Make sure to determine your living arrangements prior to leaving Above It All. If you already have a home in mind, be sure to consider the potential outcomes of the arrangement. Does your family mind having you back? Do your friends have space available? Do your friends use alcohol or drugs?

Research local sober living homes and call a few to locate one that suits your needs and goals. Most homes will have a list of rules and guidelines to follow in order to maintain your residence. Rent will be due each month. Can you meet these requirements?

Relapse Prevention

Perhaps the most important concentration area post rehab is relapse prevention. Know your triggers and avoid situations that may include them. If certain triggers are unavoidable, be sure to have a plan set in place to deal with them properly. By sticking to your sobriety and the support system you arrange, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish.

 

Sober Activities List

Once a patient has completed our substance abuse rehabilitation program, they may initially struggle to find sober activities that feed their interest. For many addicts, drug and alcohol use has become such a vital part of their social life that it can be hard to locate fun and excitement that does not involve using. In an effort to illuminate some social, engaging and sober activities, we’ve compiled a sober activities list to get you started.

Games

Whether for a weekend or weeknight, games are a great activity to keep you engaged and entertained. Card games, board games and role-playing games can involve friends, fun and laughs with a low cost and high level of engagement. Consider setting up a weekly game night, inviting your friends and  sharing a few sodas and snacks.

The Great Outdoors

As found with our own treatment center activities, the great outdoors can play a positive role in the recovery process. Biking, camping, hiking, swimming and even jogging are wonderful ways to stay fit, have fun and remain sober. Hop online and search of day hikes in your local area. Not only is it a great way to spend your time, but a positive environment to make new friends.

Dancing

Most areas have at least one studio where people can dance socially or sign up for lessons. Learn some new moves and make a point to attend to the social events. These gatherings are another great way to build relationships and network in a positive and sober manner.

The Big Screen!

Movies have always been the perfect escape from the day-to-day routine. If you’re not feeling social or just need some down time, a trip to the theater or movie night at home can be the perfect way to spend your time.

School

Even if you’re not seeking a degree, taking a class at your local community college is a great way to learn a new skill. Take a peek at available courses and choose something that interests you. Cooking, music, and psychology are all wonderful areas to lose yourself.

Final Note

Though it may take some time to locate an activity that suits your interests, the important part is that you try. Maybe you’re not the best dancer, or chef, or guitarist… it doesn’t matter. Find something that makes you happy and give it a go. When it comes to sober fun, the sky is the limit.

How Family Counseling Aids In Addiction Recovery

By the time an addict has reached our drug rehab center in LA, the families are typically through with the heartache and drama that’s been caused. Though the family still loves and supports the addict, it’s not uncommon for members to feel as though their attempts to help the individual only serve in making the situation worse. Why would a stay at Above It All be any different?

Support for family of addicts is one of the main focuses at Above It All. Here, friends and relatives of the addict are invited to take part in the recovery process with the aid of a licensed addiction specialist. In this way, family members are better able to understand what their loved one is going through, and the efforts being made to combat the addiction as a whole. Counseling can take place either in person or over the phone, and can take place as often as 1x per week.

Truth be told, the single greatest thing you can do to help your loved one succeed in their recovery is making a commitment to attend Al-Anon meetings. These environments provide participants with the knowledge and support they need to fully recognize their own involvement in the addiction. As the old saying goes, “your only as good as the company you keep”. By making a concerted effort to better yourself, you will in effect be doing your part to aid the individual in question. Addiction is never a solo journey… and the same rules should apply to recovery.

Even with family counseling and Al-Anon meetings, it’s important to know that there are no guarantees for complete recovery. In some cases, it may even take years for the addict to truly commit to the recovery process.  Make a point to keep tabs on the addict’s attendance in regard to 12 step meetings once they have completed their treatment. A willingness to continue maintaining their sobriety through counseling and support groups is a good sign that the individual is invested in a positive change.

If you’re considering your rehabilitation options, take a moment to contact one of our licensed addiction counselors. He or she will be best able to assess the situation at hand and provide you with available options in addressing the addiction.

Deep breaths… Postive thoughts… Love & Compassion… We’ll get through this yet!

Sobriety vs. Abstinence

There are many different ways in which alcoholics can choose to go about getting and staying sober. Recovery is such a personal experience and it varies from person to person. The most important thing despite no matter what our sobriety looks like or doesn’t look like is that we sought alcohol addiction help, and got/stayed sober. With that being said there is a huge difference between sobriety and abstinence. Sobriety is when we do things like go to a Los Angeles rehab, work the steps, or perhaps go to a California alcohol rehab program. It’s when we are taking a proactive approach to our recovery and go to any lengths to stay sober. When we do this our lives start to blossom and we are at peace, start loving life, and know happiness. Whereas abstinence is simply abstaining from alcohol. This type of alcoholic is also known as a “dry drunk.” There’s not much involvement in their recovery and often times they are grasping onto their sobriety while barely hanging in there. They are often miserable and, whether they are aware of it or not, they are in the grips of their disease. They can be well restless, irritable, and discontent until they either do the work or drink. They go back to blaming others and acting out. The dry drunk becomes the poster child once again of self–will run riot. It is often time inevitable that they will indeed drink again if they dont change. The good news is that no matter what category we fall under we get the chance to change it. We don’t have to drink to start over. We can simply pick ourselves back up and start with the basics again. In AA it is often said that we never have to feel the way we felt before we got sober ever again and we don’t. What a beautiful blessing!

Getting Addiction Help When You’re Young

Making the decision to get sober is already a difficult thing. It’s already hard enough sometimes to hit a bottom when were older let alone when were young. Since alcoholics have a tendency to defend our right to drink and use to the death many of us don’t receive or ask for alcohol addiction help until we are older. However these days there are a lot more young people getting sober through the help of places like AA, or California rehab centers. We see more and more young people getting here at such an early age such as 16,17,18 years old or even younger that work the steps, go to some sort of drug rehab facility in LA, and as a result of one or both things achieve long lasting recovery. It’s a beautiful thing. some people that get sober young might have the lingering questions such as was it just a phase?, did I get sober too young?, do I have another drinking spree left in me because I’m so young?, or how can I be or admit I’m  an alcoholic when I’ve never had a legal drink? We as alcoholics are always trying to prove ourselves exceptions to the rules or terminally unique. These thoughts to a young alcoholic are only icing on the cake when it comes to trying to be the exception. While it might seem more difficult the fact is that if you get the opportunity to get sober young and you take it you too can recover the same way all of us have. Not only that but there will have been most likely less wreckage caused and an amazing long life ahead of you. There are several young people’s events and meetings available to you if you’re young and ready to get sober. As young people in recovery we don’t suffer through sobriety. Instead we insist on enjoying every second of it. For we are grateful, know how blessed we are, and know that our sober lives are way too valuable to take for granted.