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Feb 25
Love1
Redpoint Center Rehab Exercise for Recovery

Exercise for Recovery

By Addiction, Mental Health, Treatment
Exercise for recovery can be a powerful practice. Recovery looks a little different for everyone. An important part of one person’s journey may not play as significant of a part in someone else’s. That being said, scientific evidence shows that exercise is an important tool for a healthy mind and body—a key component of recovery. Medical professionals are recommending the benefits of physical activity and its many mental health applications. However, establishing a routine exercise regimen is something that forces many to struggle. Here are a couple of reasons to get off the couch and move your body.

Exercise for Recovery and Mental Health

For many, exercise has powerful mental health benefits. The research validates this fact. To start, exercise for many can be a form of meditation. It creates the space and time to simply be present. Much of recovery is about learning to live in the present moment. Fears, doubts, insecurities, and anxieties typically live in the past and the future. When you’re engaged in cardio, practicing yoga, or lifting weights, you are aware of your heartbeat and your breath. Furthermore, you are quieting the mind and initiating the release of endorphins, which generate a greater sense of ease and calm. Tapping into the body and remaining present is a meditative experience.
In addition, exercise is a powerful, and completely natural, anti-depressant. It is also free, depending on what activities you enjoy. The chemical release that occurs during physical exercise is proven to be as effective as leading anti-depressant medications (without the negative side effects) when treating mild to moderate depression. “Even if it’s a temporary fix, I can count on 30 hard minutes on the Stairmaster to rescue me from my own mind,” says Rachael Messaros, outreach coordinator at the Redpoint Center.
Exercise provides structure and leads to healthy choices. Sometimes we just need a reason to get out of bed in the morning and starting the day with movement sets us up for a far better day. “When I can work exercise into my weekly routine, it provides me with a healthy structure and promotes self-care. It provides evidence that I am taking time out of the day to make a healthy decision for myself, which in turn leads to more of the same, like eating well and getting enough rest,” adds Rachael.

Exercise as a Spiritual Practice

Exercise for recovery can be a spiritual practice for many of us. While exercising in nature we are more attuned to the greater world around us. In addition, even riding the cardio bike in the class at the gym can help you feel connected to something bigger than yourself. We become more aware of a sense of connectivity.
“Nature nourishes my soul, and so do other humans working towards a similar goal,”—Rachael Massaros, Outreach Coordinator at Redpoint Center
As mentioned before, what works for one person doesn’t always resonate with another. There is however a growing body of evidence that suggests getting outside (or inside) and moving your body has significant benefits for not only physical but also mental health. Perhaps the two aren’t so different from one another in the first place.
Feb 25
Love1
Redpoint Center Marijuana Facts Myths

Debunking 3 Myths About Marijuana Use

By Addiction, Treatment
by Cody Gardner
Marijuana use is the topic of much debate. Marijuana is often regarded as a safe alternative to harder drugs. But is this based on facts? The truth is that there is concern about how safe it truly is, especially for the developing brain. There are outdated ideas about cannabis—the actual name for marijuana—and it’s good to know the myths. In addition, because of how socially acceptable cannabis is now, it’s important to be educated. In the book by Ben Cort, Weed, Inc., the cannabis industry is exposed. Along with this research, I see firsthand the impact the drug has. I work with adolescents and adults in treatment who struggle with marijuana use disorder. And it’s a difficult road for many. Furthermore, there are facts about the dangers of marijuana that everyone should know.

The Facts About Marijuana Use

 

Myth: Marijuana is natural, straight from the earth, and therefore organic
Truth: Commercial growing operations often use pesticides. Ben Cort researches the marijuana industry for a living. He tells a story in one of his Ted talks about an employee who left his job at a growing operation because the staff wore hazmat suits working with the plants. In fact, Cort says, “Pesticide levels six times the maximum allowed by the federal government have been found on plants quarantined at marijuana grow houses in Denver.”
Myth: Marijuana has the same level of THC today as it always has
Truth: Today, marijuana is often modified to increase the potency of THC. In 1996, the average level of THC in marijuana measured 5% or less. Today, 30% of THC is the norm in Colorado. Furthermore, there are now powerful concentrates with THC levels as high as 98%. There is not as much research on what higher THC levels do to the human brain. There’s a significant difference between marijuana as a plant and the THC in distillates, also known as “dabs”. Dabs contain more THC because they are highly refined from hash oil. In addition, dabs yield levels of THC up to 97%. These levels can subject the brain to damage. Also, they can be more harmful to the lungs. Along with this, it increases the risk of dependency.
Myth: Marijuana doesn’t cause psychosis or schizophrenia
Truth: Documented research concludes that “Cannabis use is likely to increase the risk of developing schizophrenia and other psychoses; the higher the use, the greater the risk.” Hospitals have an influx of teens with drug-induced psychosis. In addition, this is correlated with High THC drugs such as dabs, and edibles.

Marijuana Use – Risks and Concerns

Current cannabis practices leave plenty of room for concern. Along with the toxic chemicals used in production, we need to be aware of the elevated levels of narcotics. In addition, due to the dubious strains and forms of the drug, you may not know what you’re really getting. Also, the developing brain is at potential risk. Therefore, if you choose to consume THC, know the medical and psychological risks. Furthermore, the marijuana industry downplays the risks of use. Similar to the 50s and 60s with the rise of Big Tobacco, credible information about THC and marijuana is harder to source. At Redpoint, we are committed to evidence-based information. Hence, it is our mission to empower our community to make educated decisions about substance use.
If you are in need of more information on this topic or others, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here for you and your loved ones. You are not alone.
Feb 21
Love1
Redpoint Center Alcohol Abuse Addiction Treatment

Four Lies I Told Myself About My Alcohol Abuse 

By Alcohol rehab, Treatment

by Rachael Messaros, Director of Admissions & Marketing at Redpoint Center

Admitting Defeat: Alcohol Abuse & the Brain

Alcohol abuse is insidious. It took me time to come to grips with my addiction. In addition, it took time to see the denial in my life. We all tell ourselves stories, all the time, about why we do what we do. And some of these stories are used to justify behaviors, especially when it comes to destructive patterns. While sober, I realize that the addicted part of my brain tries to convince me to listen to these stories. Alcohol abuse and addiction start in the mind. Furthermore, these reasons I used to drink and continue drinking are really fictional — they are lies. Consequently, as we start breaking down the lies, we can get closer to healthy patterns of behavior. So, I share the lies I used to drink alcohol abusively. This may help you or someone you love to see the problem and seek help.

Lies About My Alcohol Abuse

I can quit anytime I want to, I just don’t want to.

This was an easy way to take the blame off of myself. And what’s more, I could pretend I was calling the shots in my life, when, in reality, alcohol was making all of my decisions for me. One time I decided I would not drink for 7 days. On day one, I was annoyed that I had set rules for myself and so I drank because I felt entitled to do so. It wasn’t until I finally got sober and did a lot of soul searching, 12 step work, and therapy, that I realized that my “alcoholic” brain, or my “lizard brain” was in control of my life – not my logical human brain. To me, knowing I abuse alcohol means that when I put alcohol in my body, my ‘lizard brain’ categorizes it as a necessity, much like food and water. Unfortunately, that lizard brain has a much louder voice than my logical brain and therefore I believed that I was drinking to survive. The truth is obvious – alcohol is poison, and normal people’s bodies reject poison after a few drinks. Normal people enjoy the feeling of being drunk and then stop. Mine did the opposite. No matter how many drinks I had or how many consequences I faced, my body always wanted more. Alcohol abuse takes over in the cycle of addiction. The only thing that would stop me was passing out. Inevitably, this would all start over the next day.

Everyone drinks as much as I do, if not more.

I ran with a wild crowd in college. A lot of drugs were ingested, alcohol consumed, and many illegal things took place. That being said, it always seemed like my drinking and drugging were worse than everyone else’s. When others would take some days off, I would pressure them into joining me. I would continue the never-ending “party”. None of them were arrested, none of them lost their jobs because of alcohol or drugs, and none of them were experiencing major familial and friend relationship issues. These things were only happening to me, it seemed. I later realize that not everyone drinks to blackout and pass out. Some people enjoy one glass of wine and feel content. In fact, the majority of people have a normal response to alcohol. However, this is not the case for me.

Life without alcohol is boring.

There is nothing more boring than blacking out and remembering nothing. The first concert I went to, once sober had me in tears because I couldn’t believe how incredible it was without drugs. I thought that music and concerts were only good because I was on so many drugs. That is truly not the case. Music is incredible. Furthermore, I’d go so far as to say it’s a natural drug. Experiencing life without drugs or alcohol is a beautiful thing. Sadly, many people, including myself, use (or used) alcohol or drugs as an attempt to escape reality or to make it more fun. But it only lasts so long. It may have worked for a little while, but once I realized my addictive tendencies, my life was not improving because of these substances. In fact, it was quite dark and hopeless.

You can’t be an alcoholic when you’re young.

If you can’t stop once you start, and you can’t stop starting, you have a problem. It doesn’t matter how old you are. When I got sober at 21, a lot of people made comments like “you can’t be an alcoholic at 21”, or “it’s probably just a phase, just take some time off”. I learned that once a cucumber becomes a pickle, it cannot go back to being a cucumber. I am a pickle. I know now that my body has an abnormal reaction to alcohol. I could never have just 2 or 3 drinks. Or, on the rare occasion that I did only have a few, it was miserable and I wanted more. Sometimes I joke with my friends saying, “If I could drink like a normal person, I would do it all day every day.” Herein lies the insanity. At the end of the day, the truth is, I have no desire to drink like a normal person. And this alcohol abuse pattern started when I was 18. I’m extremely grateful that I got out of the grips of this at such a young age and didn’t have to get into serious trouble. I know people who face serious consequences.
If you get really honest with yourself and take a good look at whether you are in charge or if the drugs or alcohol are in charge, and you see that they are in fact in charge, get in touch with us. We have a lot of experience with this here at The Redpoint Center. We know how scary it can be to acknowledge it’s time to stop, but you are not alone. What’s more, this is a curable disease.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
Dec 04
Love2
Joint Commission Gold Seal Excellence Addiction Treatment

The Redpoint Center Awarded Accreditation from The Joint Commission

By Mental Health, Treatment

The Redpoint Center of Boulder County, Colorado, earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® Accreditation. This Gold Seal is awarded after demonstrating compliance with the necessary performance standards. Furthermore, it is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care. In addition, the Joint Commission Accreditation ensures clients feel completely confident in the mental health and substance abuse treatment they receive. Hence, it is literally the gold standard when it comes to drug rehab and mental health care.

The Redpoint Center fulfilled a rigorous, unannounced onsite review of its outpatient and inpatient treatment programs. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluates compliance standards spanning several areas. Furthermore, they review every aspect of the program. Hence, this includes individual clinical treatment, experiential modalities, addiction treatment care, and overall excellence.

Joint Commission: The Best in Addiction Treatment

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed by an exemplary team in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help behavioral health care organizations measure, assess and improve performance. The surveyors also conduct onsite observations and interviews. Consequently, the process is rigorous and attentive to every detail of care.

“As a private accreditor, The Joint Commission surveys health care organizations to protect the public by identifying deficiencies in care and working with those organizations to correct them as quickly and sustainably as possible,” says Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Accreditation and Certification Operations, and chief nursing executive, The Joint Commission. “We commend The Redpoint Center for its continuous quality improvement efforts in patient safety and quality of care.”

Boulder County Addiction Rehab: Compassionate Care

“We are thrilled that The Redpoint Center meets every aspect of the intensive Joint Commission compliance process. This is a huge milestone for our Colorado addiction treatment facility. In addition, this will allow us to continue to serve the Boulder County rehab needs, and beyond,” says Cody Gardner, founder, and CEO of The Redpoint Center. “It’s an honor to provide the much-needed mental health and substance use disorder treatment needs of Colorado,” Gardner added. The Redpoint Center provides compassionate care to Boulder County, as well as other areas of Colorado where drug addiction treatment is desperately needed. “The more we can provide thoughtful recovery services to a community in need, the greater our mission is actualized,” adds Gardner.

For more information on the accreditation, please visit The Joint Commission website.

The Redpoint Center is an outpatient substance abuse treatment center. Located in Longmont, Colorado, Redpoint Center empowers clients through robust addiction treatment programming. Redpoint’s team teaches clients practical recovery skills through a multi-layered approach to addressing trauma and addiction. As the premier Boulder County mental health and drug rehab treatment center, Redpoint Center provides excellence in care.

Nov 19
Love2
Redpoint Center Blog How Have Happy Sober Holidays

Top 10 Tips for Happy Sober Holidays

By Mental Health, Treatment

So It’s Your First Holiday Sober…

Sober holidays can be a blast. They can also be challenging, stressful, and triggering. This is true, perhaps now more than ever. Following a number of troubled years and difficult decisions, in the fall of 2006, I checked into a treatment center for alcohol and heroin. I had a handful of unsuccessful treatment experiences before this. When I entered treatment, I was skeptical of my ability to be sober and find recovery.

Fortunately, when in treatment I began building relationships and doing “the work” that would ultimately sustain me in long-term-recovery. Following 40 days of rehab, I went to sober living and was able to quickly find employment. Luckily for me, this job afforded me the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time attending 12-step meetings and other recovery-oriented activities.

Holiday Season and Sobriety

As time was passing and my recovery was progressing, I did not think much about the holidays. I can remember hearing people say, “Alcoholism is a three-fold disease; Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.” I remember having a vague idea that I ought to consider that the holidays were coming, but I was living day-to-day and focusing most of my energy on staying sober.

My parents had a quiet Thanksgiving in Boulder County that year and were very happy with my sobriety. I have vivid memories of going back to their house and following through with what my sponsor had told me. “This is not the time to spend with friends. In addition, while you are home, see where you can contribute. Wake up early, ask how you can be helpful, do the dishes without having to be asked. Clean up after yourself and go to bed early.” In the trust-building phase of early recovery, this is sage advice.

Christmas is where it got messy. I remember being at my job in early December in Boulder County. I got invited to a holiday party with a co-worker. She knew that I did not have a lot going on and I think she thought that inviting me would help me make friends. I was still in my first 90 days of sobriety. Without thinking, I accepted the invitation.

Surviving Sober Holiday Parties

On the night of the party, I went to her house to meet her in Weld County and she told me that the party was an hour away and that she would drive. I can remember thinking I would have preferred to drive, but I acquiesced rather quickly to get in her car. I had yet to find my voice (and these were the days before Google maps!).

We drove for over an hour to Northern Colorado and ended up at a big holiday party. Immediately walking through the front door, I was offered a beer. I politely refused. After being introduced to a few people, the uncle of the woman I was with started badgering me about having some homemade whiskey. He offered and I said no thank you. Then, he asked why I wasn’t drinking and I said I didn’t feel like it. Next, he said, “It’s just one drink, what’s the problem,” I replied that he, “Didn’t want to see me drinking.”

He didn’t really get the joke, but luckily the woman I was with saw that I was struggling and came over and saved me. I walked with her for a minute and then excused myself.

Outside in the driveway, I frantically called my sponsor. He answered and I explained the situation. I can remember saying to him, “Maybe that guy is right. It’s just one. Also, the people at the sober house wouldn’t even know.” Like all good sponsors, he talked me through it. He helped me remember my life and asked me to explain some instances where I intended to have “just one” and had drunk myself into oblivion. Furthermore, he stayed on the phone with me for over an hour. He told me if anyone offered me any more booze to just say, “I am allergic to alcohol; I can’t drink it.”

After returning, re-committed to sobriety, I tried to enjoy the rest of the night and couldn’t wait to get back to my car. A friend once said to me, “I just don’t want to lose my place in line,” when referencing sobriety. Today, I can look back and say how grateful I am for holding my “place in line.”

In retrospect, I wish someone had given me a bigger list of things to consider during the holidays. Each situation is different and many of us struggle with creative ways to make it through sober holidays, parties, families, etc. The key is remembering you are not alone. Whether we decide to avoid social gatherings or go out and do volunteer work, the holiday season can be fulfilling. But we need to know how to do it.

Below are my top 10 tips of advice for someone in their first holiday season in recovery.

10 Sober Holidays Tips

  1. You drive. Always insist on driving or taking your own car. This is my #1 piece of advice.
  2. Buddy up. Try to attend functions with other sober people. Having at least one person who understands what you are attempting is vital.
  3. Drink up. You’re sober! Have something in your hand. My preferred drink is cranberry and soda water (but I will occasionally confirm with the bartender that there is no booze in the drink). I have a friend who brings lollipops to parties so she has a treat.
  4. Be direct. Don’t be afraid to tell people that you don’t drink. Additionally, don’t feel compelled to tell people why. Most will accept your response the first time without the “why”.
  5. Have an exit strategy. Make sure that you know you can leave and know where you will go if you feel triggered. Preparation is key.
  6. Plan, plan, plan. If you are traveling for the holidays, look up recovery meetings or connect with someone local that you can reach out to if you need extra support.
  7. Plan your self-care. The holidays can get hectic, quickly. Make sure that before you attend any holiday event you have given yourself enough downtime to prepare internally for anything that might come up.
  8. Connect with family. If you can, let the family know in advance that you are going to be sober this year at the holiday event. Your family does not have to make sure that you stay sober (they are not security guards), but informing them prior that you will not be drinking can be very helpful if you feel triggered at the event or need extra space.
  9. Set boundaries. Additionally, to the point above, if the family is not supportive or is not is going to add to your overall recovery plan, set boundaries. You don’t have to do anything that will damage your mental health. Feelings of shame, doubt, and possibly guilt might arise, but if you are truly on the path to recovery, staying sober is the number one priority. Hold those boundaries.
  10. Skip it. Lastly, adding to the above idea. You don’t have to do any of it. If you believe that you will not be able to stay sober at one event or another, DON’T GO. You are worth it and there will be next year when you feel more secure in your sobriety.

In conclusion, know that the holidays sober can be a beautiful time. You don’t have to be afraid of anything. The key is being prepared for what may come. And if you’re mindful of your sobriety, the holidays are actually more magical than they ever were before. You will remember everything that happened, you will enjoy the beauty of winter festivities, and you will remember you’re on the path to recovery. This is a beautiful thing.

If you or someone you love is struggling during the holiday season, reach out for help. You are not alone. You can call us, any time, and we will provide professional support for you and your loved ones. Our Boulder County rehab offers top-level expertise in alcohol and substance abuse treatment.

Oct 30
Love3
Redpoint Center Addiction Treatment Relationships Recovery

Relationships in Addiction Recovery

By Mental Health, Treatment

Relationships in recovery can be complicated. And relationships take time to build or mend. Over the past decade, major strides have been made to de-stigmatize addiction and mental health concerns. The scientific consensus is clear, addiction is a diagnosable, treatable condition of the brain. Although there are similarities to other treatable conditions, there are also specific challenges for those in recovery. Of these, mending broken relationships is at the top of one’s list when in recovery.

Damaged Relationships Before Recovery

Many people living in active addiction behave erratically. The central tenet of the disease model concept is that the brain becomes “hijacked” by the chemicals that produce happiness. Thus, people are willing to engage in erratic, dangerous, and alienating behaviors.

Relationships require work. Furthermore, new behaviors take time to develop. Some of these include accountability, dependability, and awareness. While using substances, we often sacrifice healthy relationships to consume drugs or alcohol. Sadly, many die due to substance and alcohol use disorders and can never mend what’s been damaged. But, in recovery, we can work on relationships and devote attention to their evolution.

Luckily, with proper treatment, those who enter into recovery can slowly re-build the relationships that matter most to them. In addition, healthy relationships aid in long term recovery. It is through connection that we nourish relationships in recovery.

Tips for Healing Relationships

  • Communication. The foundation of any good relationship is communication. In addictive behavior, we may manipulate and create facades that protect the addiction. To start mending relationships in recovery, we need to communicate regularly and clearly. In the beginning, we may just explain that we are working on changing behaviors. In addition, we may note that we fully understand the harm caused. Furthermore, we can let others know that this will be addressed in the future. For now, the focus is working on honesty. This includes following through and staying sober, no matter what. Read more about creating positive connection.
  • Trust. Trust can be lacking in the early stages of recovery. Acknowledging this and coming up with plans to build trust is beneficial. Maybe it’s regular, planned check-ins. Maybe it is a meeting with a professional counselor. No matter what, trust-building will take time.
  • Holding boundaries. It may sound contrary, but holding boundaries is very important in all relationships. This means being clear with ourselves and others about our needs. Hence, it also means we hold ourselves in high regard when we respect our own personal space and that of others.
  • Setting realistic expectations. Although most people want to immediately fix the harm they have done, this may not be possible or appropriate in the beginning. Talking through the process of recovery, the commitment to treatment, and the timeline for goals can be invaluable in the process.
  • Self-care. This one may be surprising, but good relationships start within. When we’re caring for ourselves, we can show up for others. In addition, taking care of ourselves builds our self-esteem, which only benefits the connections we keep.

Connection in Recovery

The beauty of sobriety is that we can focus on ourselves and those we love. When we walk the recovery path, we’re willing to learn, to grow, to evolve. In addition, our loved ones can see the shift. It is truly magical. If you or someone you love is in need of support, professional help is available. The caring guidance of a thoughtful mentor or clinician can lead to better communication skills. Don’t wait to choose connection and real happiness. It can be yours whenever you are ready.

Oct 15
Love2
Redpoint Center Teen Addiction Treatment

The Difference Between Adult and Teen Addiction Treatment

By Addiction, Alcohol rehab, Mental Health, Therapy, Treatment

What are the differences between youth and adult addiction treatment?

As rates of suicide, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorder rise in Colorado, and the United States, more teen addiction treatment expands. Furthermore, parents seek teen addiction treatment that also provides mental health counseling and professional support for the family unit. Hence, families, in general, are more aware of addiction and mental health concerns and their systemic nature. Therefore professional addiction treatment that supports the entire family is key.

Teen Addiction Factors and Treatment Modalities

Although the teen addiction treatment paradigm is generally the same as adult: Residential, PHP, IOP, OP, etc., the needs of adolescents vary significantly from adults. While, for adults, the predictive factors for recovery are employment, financial stability, community engagement, duration of use, the intensity of use, marriage, parenthood, mental health treatment, etc., for youth there are different predictive factors.

For teens and adolescents, the factors that support positive recovery are: educational engagement, positive family influences, positive peer influences, pro-social leisure activities, etc. In addition, high school drug and alcohol use and abuse concerns, as well as rates of youth mental health and suicidal ideation, drive deeper concern. Teen addiction treatment centers need to respond to these specific needs. Furthermore, teen treatment needs to provide options that don’t just treat the symptoms but address the cause.

Hence, both adult and adolescent care require professional support but teen treatment requires family integration.

Parenting Teens with Substance Use Disorder

It’s important that parents receive professional support during the teen addiction treatment process. When an adolescent is struggling it impacts the entire family. In addition, there is often a previous trauma or behavioral pattern that informs destructive habits. Consequently, parents need guidance and therapeutic care during treatment. Along with professional support, parents need tips on dealing with teens when it comes to teen rehab treatment.

Here are some simple tips to remember.

  1. Breathe. It’s going to be OK. Stress plays a role in mental health and substance use struggles. Minimize it as best as you can. This means slowing down, taking a breath, and remembering that deep breaths help your parasympathetic nervous system mitigate stress.
  2. Be compassionate. It’s scary for you AND your teen to navigate this time. So hold compassion for all involved.
  3. Practice self-care. When we care for ourselves, we can show up for others as our best selves. This is crucial for parents.

Addiction Treatment & Professional Support

At The Redpoint Center, a teen and adult addiction treatment in Boulder County, Colorado, we offer specific treatment programs that address the individual. In our adult program, we focus on practical recovery tools so clients maintain their sobriety while living in the community. For our youth treatment program, we focus on family relationships, educational support, leisure activities that expose teens and young adults to healthy habits that do not involve substance use. In addition, we provide parent support groups and parenting workshops. Parent counseling is a key part of any good treatment plan. Compassionate care treats clients holistically, meeting them where they are.

“It’s important to treat the individual compassionately, based on where they are in their lives.”— Cody Gardner, Founder of The Redpoint Center.

As always, when considering a treatment program for your loved one, it is recommended to ask questions about how that treatment center will specifically address your loved one’s needs.

Sep 26
Love2
Redpoint Center Treatment Interventions

What is an Intervention?

By Addiction, Alcohol rehab, Longmont Drug Rehab, Mental Health, Treatment

Interventions are a strong first component of recovery. Not only do they help families through a complex process, but they also provide professional guidance for treatment. Furthermore, interventionists help reduce the burden of shame and stigma. This value is immeasurable. Over the past 15 years, the stigma of addiction in America is decreasing. What used to be considered a moral or ethical failing is now considered a treatable condition. Groups like Facing Addiction, SAHMSA, and Shatterproof, work tirelessly to help others. In addition, these nonprofits help Americans understand that addiction and alcoholism can be overcome through treatment, communities, and cultural compassion. Interventionists do the same and offer powerful support along the way.

As more people learn that addiction is a treatable condition, people ask, “How can I get someone help?” Furthermore, when someone is in destructive patterns, it can be hard to stop. Also, it can be even harder to convince them they need to change their ways.

What is an Intervention?

Premiering on March 6, 2005, “Intervention,” an A&E TV show, depicts family struggles when helping a loved one to seek drug rehab or mental health treatment. The show depicts participants using drugs and alcohol and subjects use interventionists as a wake-up call for family members. Interventionists are a key part of the process.

Interventionists usually make contact with the family, to start, to get a better understanding of what’s happening. Following an information gather process, the interventionist meets with the family to determine a course of action. In addition, they may work with clinical support to ensure the methods chosen are sound. They may also use various tactics to implore the person to accept treatment help. Following acceptance, the person goes immediately to treatment, generally for a minimum of 60–90 days.

In 15 seasons of the TV show, only 4 participants refused treatment. While the TV show can be helpful for families to understand the process there are many factors that can impact the experience. Therefore, it is best to find the right interventionist for each situation.

Questions to Ask Regarding Interventions

  • What credential does the interventionist possess? There most highly coveted credential is the Certified Intervention Professional (CIP).
  • What style of intervention will be used? Johnson Model, Love first , ARISE Model, Not all models are equal.
  • Is the interventionist a licensed therapist or registered psychotherapist?
  • What will happen if my loved one refuses? Will you continue to help?
  • Is there any type of follow-up from the interventionist following next steps?
  • Does the interventionist help with aftercare.

Make sure all of your questions are answered. As an advocate for your family, you have every right to make sure you have all the information you need. This is critical. It is also vital that you gain the support and trust of a seasoned professional in the field.  At The Redpoint Center, in Longmont, Colorado, we can help with conducting an intervention. Our licensed, trained staff conduct dozens of interventions a year. Supporting families as they navigate the complex system of treatment is a core component of our mission. We regularly refer families to different treatment center’s when our program is not the right fit. This is what a good interventionist does—they work for you.

Call today for a complimentary phone assessment. We are here for you and your family every step of the way.

You are not alone.

Sep 11
Love2
Redpoint Center Addiction Drug Rehab Boulder County Information

The Truth About Addiction Drug Rehab

By Addiction, Treatment

Addiction drug rehab can be scary words. If you are thinking about addiction treatment or alcohol treatment, you are not alone. It’s so important to know this. Many have been right where you are. The truth is, it can feel overwhelming. And you may wonder whether this is something you really need. That’s OK. You’re right where you need to be. In addition, welcome to the start of a wonderful new life. Only those who are brave and committed will see it through. That’s you. Below are some tips to help navigate the process. Also, we offer details about the varied phases. Ask questions. Seek professional input. The key is being open to change. Therefore, you need support, but know that you can do it. Help is available.

The Facts About Addiction Drug Rehab

When thinking about addiction drug rehab or alcohol rehab it is best to understand the options for treatment. Addiction can be a long road, but with professional support, healing is possible. In addition, when we commit to self-care and healthy living, we can live a life beyond our imaginings.

Here is the basic continuum of care for substance abuse treatment.

If you or someone you know is thinking about rehab, the first step is to speak to someone. A professional in the field can assess you for which level of care is the best fit. There are other types of addiction drug rehab treatment, but below are the ASAM levels of care:

  • Detoxification, otherwise known as detox. Detox is
    • Usually a 3-7 day medical process in a hospital or medical setting.
    • Overseen by a licensed medical doctor and registered nurses.
    • Designed to help someone become physically free and clear of the drugs and/or alcohol.
    • May include group therapy and case management to determine next steps and aftercare.
  • RTC or Primary Residential Treatment:
    • Is the general type of rehab we think of when we think of treatment.
    • Usually lasts between 30 and 90 days.
    • Has a medical provider onsite and includes group and individual therapy.
    • Is designed to continue stabilizing, educating and preparing the person for aftercare.
    • Can include many holistic therapies such as equine, yoga, nutrition, etc.

Addiction Care and Intensive Outpatient

Many believe that RTC is the main type of treatment. However, there is unsubstantial evidence to concur that 30 days of treatment can fix or solve what for many is a multi-year, sometimes multi-decade condition.

  • PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) or Day Treatment:
    • The next stepdown level from RTC and it includes a person living at home and attending 5 days per week, 5 hours per day or outpatient treatment.
    • Includes medical services, case management, group therapy, and individual addiction therapy.
    • Can be done for those that cannot leave their job or home for 30-90 days.
    • Also is a stepdown for those coming from RTC and re-integrating.
    • Most times lasts 2-4 weeks.
  • IOP (Intensive Outpatient):
    • Consists of 3 days per week for 3 hours per day.
    • This level of care can be completed for most without having to sacrifice their jobs or families.
    • Generally is both mornings and evenings.
    • Can be completed at a rate of 5 days per week in certain situations.
    • Usually includes individual therapy, group therapy, case management, and urine drug testing.
    • Typically lasts a minimum of 90 days.
    • Most often does not include medical or nursing services.
  • OP (Outpatient):
    • Outpatient care can be anything that is less than 9 hours (IOP) level of care.
    • OP generally consists of 1-2 group therapy sessions, ongoing urine drug testing, case management, and individual therapy.

Individualized Care

Taking the first steps toward recovery can feel like a solitary experience. But there is support all around, once you decide you’re ready to make a change. And rest assured, once you make the decision, the rest will unfold for you to live your best life.

“I think one of the most important things to remember when starting on the path to recovery is that you are not alone. It can be hard to hear, but what you’re experiencing is not unique. In addition, there is a solid, loving community of recovery waiting to support you on your journey. You just need to be willing to ask for help,” says Cody Gardner, founder of the Redpoint Center.

At The Redpoint Center, in Longmont, Colorado, we apply compassionate care to ensure clients are held every step of the way. Although we offer “PHP” and “IOP” levels of care, we are much more than an IOP. During treatment, each participant receives the PHP/IOP services. In addition, we provide individualized nutrition, fitness, recovery coaching, family, and medical services. Furthermore, as each person has unique needs, we create a compelling vision for the future. Hence, this begins with individualized, high quality, recovery-oriented services.

If you or someone you know is thinking about addiction drug rehab in Colorado, or anywhere in the country, contact us. You can call our expert team at (888) 509-3153. We are here to help. If our services don’t fit, we will personally help you find resources that do.

Jul 29
Love2
Redpoint Center Self-Care Recovery

The Importance of Self-Care in Recovery

By Addiction, Alcohol rehab, Community, Longmont Drug Rehab, Mental Health, Therapy, Treatment

Self-care in recovery is key. After struggling, a person can believe that they are not good enough. And they may feel they don’t measure up. This is what I thought about myself.

In active addiction, I didn’t take care of myself. I wouldn’t wear my seat belt all the time. In addition, I had a bad diet. Furthermore, at times I would even skip showering.

Substance use disorder negatively affects self-perception, mood, motivation. Also, it can hinder personal well-being. It can make you feel overwhelmed and bad about yourself. Hence, at times it seems there is no way out.

When I finally got sober I wasn’t sure what self-care meant anymore. There were mentors to show me the way, including our founder at Redpoint. I also internalized self-care as being selfish. During my active addiction, I had been selfish for so long that the last thing I wanted to do was pay attention to the things that I needed.

Self-Care in Recovery — The Opposite of Selfish

I realize now that there is a difference between being selfish and taking care of yourself. What I learned was that you need to implement self-care when you get sober so that you can replace selfish, addictive behavior with healthy alternatives.

Once you are addicted to alcohol or other drugs, it is common to use these addictive behaviors to cope with negative feelings. Some even use these addictive behaviors as a type of reward system for themselves.

During my active addiction, it got to the point where I would tell myself, “I worked all day today, so I deserve to get high.” Or “my boyfriend made me mad, so I can get high to make myself feel better.”

Now, I take care of myself. Self-care in recovery means I work out, do art, get my nails done, and take time out of my day to just sit and think. By doing this, I can change my own thoughts about myself and my life.

Now, the more I take care of myself, the better I feel, and the more I want to keep that feeling going. I also know that in order to keep this positivity, I need to maintain awareness, help others, and maintain my sobriety. This self-growth is an important part of self-care.

When I was using, I couldn’t take care of myself, let alone help someone else. Now that I take time out for myself, I have more positive energy to help other people.

I’m a huge fan of self-care now. If you haven’t tried it, I would HIGHLY recommend it. Don’t miss out. You deserve to be truly happy.

-Samantha

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1375 Kenn Pratt Blvd
Suite 300
Longmont, CO, 80501


Phone

(888) 509-3153


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