Addiction

One is never fully “recovered” from addiction. Yes, your body will be free of alcohol or drugs but the ongoing treatment is mental and spiritual. Having to go through life on life’s terms without covering up one’s emotions and feelings with drugs or alcohol is an everyday ongoing battle that becomes easier with time. After going through detox and treatment and stepping back into your everyday life we need to remember that one is not cured. Continuing therapy, group meetings, group sessions, alumni meetings/events, healthy routines/activities are all crucial when it comes to maintaining long-term recovery. Over time of continuous growth and work the cravings will be withered and life starts to get easier with less temptations

There are behavioral and physical signs when it comes to addiction. The behavioral signs are first to come, addiction doesn’t discriminate. Behavioral signs such as obsessive thoughts and actions, disregard of harms caused, loss of control and denial of addiction or drug use are portrayed when one is in active addiction. The physicality of addiction is more easy to notice in one but this is usually when it’s been going on for months or even years. Enlarged or small pupils, weight loss or gain, bloodshot eyes, unusual body odors, poor physical coordination, looking unkempt or slurred speech are just some of the signs when it comes to addiction.

Preventing a relapse all starts in detox and treatment. Beacon offers sessions learning one’s triggers and how to cope with them so you will never have to “pick up”. Eventually you are going to have a temptation or something trigger you to use, it is bound to happen so we prepare you for the fight. Triggers happen when one is angry, stressed, bored, has relationship issues, financial problems, certain sights/smells, certain people/places and falling back into old habits.

Self Care
HALTing (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired)
Mindfulness Meditation
KNOWING your triggers
Support Groups
Sponsor
Deep Breathing
Grounding Techniques
Contact List (immediately call someone)
“Play the tape through”

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a complex condition characterized by compulsive substance use or engagement in behaviors despite harmful consequences. It is often caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors and can have physical, mental, and social effects.

Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol is a depressant, a liquid drug typically consumed through drinking. In the United States, it’s legal for adults over 21. When someone develops an addiction to alcohol, they experience an overwhelming urge to drink, often prioritizing this need over their responsibilities as a productive member of society. A person with an alcohol addiction is commonly referred to as an alcoholic. Some informal terms for individuals with this addiction include alky, wino, and boozer.

People turn to alcohol for various reasons. Some drink to relax, while others view it as “liquid courage,” boosting their confidence in social settings. Many use alcohol as an escape from problems, and some drink to celebrate or have fun.

For an alcoholic, drinking becomes uncontrollable, leading to both physical and emotional dependence. They may experience blurred vision, slurred speech, poor balance, coordination issues, shakiness, vomiting, mood swings, blackouts, memory loss, delirium, or anxiety. Excessive drinking can result in alcohol poisoning, potentially leading to death, along with numerous long-term health problems. Alcohol withdrawal can be particularly dangerous or even life-threatening. We recommend medical detox at a rehab center where personalized alcohol addiction treatment is

Ambien Addiction

Ambien, a prescription sleep aid, is a depressant used to treat short-term insomnia. While effective, it can lead to dependency in as little as two weeks. Many users don’t realize they’ve developed an issue until they stop taking it and find they can’t sleep without it.

One of Ambien’s concerning side effects is memory loss, earning it the nickname “roofie replacement.” Users often report forgetting entire nights or several hours at a time. Other immediate effects may include rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, slowed breathing, concentration difficulties, disorientation, anxiety, depression, dizziness, and confusion. Some individuals misuse Ambien for its hallucinogenic properties.

Signs of Ambien addiction include engaging in risky behaviors without later recollection, attempting to refill prescriptions unusually early or frequently, taking more than prescribed, and experiencing cravings. Addicts may isolate themselves from loved ones and engage in self-destructive behaviors to obtain more of the drug.

Barbiturates Addiction

Barbiturates are sedative medications that slow down brain activity. They can be taken orally or injected, producing a calming effect. Doctors typically prescribe barbiturates to manage seizures, anxiety, and sleep issues. Phenobarbital remains one of the most commonly used barbiturates today, sometimes even helping people recover from addiction.

Common effects include drowsiness, nausea, confusion, and slurred speech. Some individuals misuse barbiturates recreationally to lower inhibitions or counteract stimulants. This can lead to risky behaviors without considering the consequences. After use, a person often feels extremely tired.

Street names for barbiturates include “barbs,” “pennies,” “reds,” or “yellow jackets.”

Benzo Addiction

Common effects include drowsiness, nausea, confusion, and slurred speech. Some individuals misuse barbiturates recreationally to lower inhibitions or counteract stimulants. This can lead to risky behaviors without considering consequences. After use, a person often feels extremely tired.

Street names for barbiturates include “barbs,” “pennies,” “reds,” or “yellow jackets.”

It’s important to understand that while these medications can be helpful when used as prescribed, they carry risks. If you or someone you know is struggling with barbiturate use, please reach out for support. Recovery is possible, and compassionate help is available to guide you through this challenging journey.

Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine is a powerful and illegal stimulant drug. It boosts energy and alertness, often called an “upper” by users. The drug comes in various forms, most commonly as a white powder that’s snorted or injected. It can also be processed into a rock-like substance called crack cocaine, which is typically smoked. Cocaine is highly addictive.

Users experience an intense rush of euphoria, energy, and pleasure when taking cocaine. Many report feeling like they don’t need food or sleep. Some believe it enhances their thinking and productivity. From the outside, a cocaine user may appear restless and unable to stay still. With repeated use, individuals can lose touch with reality, saying and doing things that seem illogical to others.

Common psychological effects of cocaine use include paranoia, panic attacks, mood swings, mania, depression, poor judgment, irritability, and unusual behaviors. Physical side effects range from headaches and chest pain to more severe issues like heart attacks or strokes. The drug is known by many street names, including girl, base, blow, snow, powder, crack, white lady, nose candy, and white dragon.

Heroin Addiction

Heroin, an illegal depressant, is typically available as a white or brown powder or a dark, sticky substance. Users commonly inject, smoke, or snort it. After consumption, individuals often experience a slowing of their surroundings and internal sensations. Their limbs may feel heavy, accompanied by a warm sensation throughout their body. Frequently, users appear drowsy, a state known as “nodding out.” To observers, the person may seem to alternate between alertness and sleep, sometimes even while standing, with their head drooping.

Many heroin users report an intense, persistent itching sensation. Other immediate effects may include nausea, vomiting, decreased heart rate, blurred vision, slurred speech, or extreme fatigue. A telltale sign of heroin use is the presence of track marks – spots, sores, and scars along veins at common injection sites. Injecting heroin is also referred to as “shooting” or “banging.” These marks are often dark and may be permanent. Common street names for heroin include “boy,” “h,” “smack,” “horse,” “china white,” “hero,” and “black tar.”

Meth Addiction

Methamphetamine, known scientifically, is a powerful stimulant. In small doses, some healthcare providers prescribe it to treat A.D.H.D., helping patients improve focus and task completion. However, on the streets, individuals misuse this drug primarily for its euphoric effects and increased energy. Meth typically comes in three forms: a bitter-tasting, odorless white powder (most common), a nearly clear crystallized form, and compressed powder pills.

People can use meth in various ways, including snorting, smoking, inserting, or injecting. The time it takes for the drug to reach the brain varies based on the method of use. Swallowing may produce intense effects 2-3 hours after consumption, while other methods like snorting, smoking, injecting, or inserting can cause a rush within 2-10 minutes.

Common signs of meth use include restlessness, rapid speech, euphoria, and increased energy. Some users report feeling invincible while under the influence. Long-term use can lead to “meth-mouth,” characterized by mouth sores and damaged teeth. Visible skin sores or “pick spots,” often on the face and arms, may indicate addiction. Users might also experience a loss of healthy skin color, appearing grayish or dull. Rapid weight loss due to suppressed appetite is common, as is severe dehydration and neglect of personal care.

Meth addiction often leads to extended periods without sleep, sometimes lasting days. This can result in extreme paranoia and, in severe cases, hallucinations. Users may exhibit confused behavior, saying and doing things that don’t make sense. This distorted sense of reality can also cause anxiety and, in extreme cases, mania. Common street names for meth include crank, ice or ice cream, speed, go or go-fast, tina, no-doze, and crystal.

Opioids Addiction

Opioids are powerful medications that interact with specific receptors in our nervous system. These substances originate from the opium poppy plant, with some created artificially in laboratories. While doctors prescribe opioids to manage pain, they can be misused, leading to serious consequences.

When opioids connect with receptors in our body, they block pain signals and trigger the release of dopamine. This feel-good chemical creates a sense of pleasure, potentially encouraging repeated use. If this pattern continues, it can lead to addiction. Due to their highly addictive nature, opioids should only be used under strict medical supervision.

Commonly misused opioids include:

Hydrocodone
Oxycodone
Morphine
Fentanyl
Codeine
Heroin

Inhalant Addiction

Inhalants encompass a diverse group of substances, classified together due to their shared method of administration: inhaling fumes. Often favored by teenagers for their accessibility, inhalant addiction is less prevalent than other substance use disorders, yet remains a serious concern due to their addictive nature. Common inhalants include gasoline, spray paints, permanent markers, adhesives, and cleaning products. Computer duster is another frequently misused inhalant. The effects of these substances are typically brief, lasting only minutes, during which users may experience various sensations. Common side effects include lightheadedness, hot flashes, or dizziness; users might also perceive sounds or sights differently.

Because the high is so short-lived, individuals often engage in repeated use, which can be extremely dangerous. While inhalant misuse may seem less harmful compared to other substances, it’s crucial to recognize the potential for addiction and the serious health risks involved. Support and professional help are available for those struggling with inhalant use.

Fentanyl Addiction

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid and depressant medication. Healthcare providers prescribe it for managing severe pain, typically as a skin patch or pill. Unfortunately, it’s also sold illegally as a white or off-white powder. Users may smoke, snort, or inject it. Some place it on blotter paper or in eye drops and nasal sprays. Increasingly, it’s being mixed with heroin, creating a dangerously potent combination. Due to its strength, only a small amount produces a high, making it a cheaper option for those struggling with addiction. Like other opioids, fentanyl causes relaxation, slowed heart rate, and intense euphoria. Other common effects include slowed breathing, loss of consciousness, pain relief, extreme drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and confusion.

Street names for fentanyl include fetty, apache, china girl, or china white.

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