Category: Clinical News

What to Expect

There are several important items that people who are new to Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT) should know. Often times, psychoeducation is necessary at the onset of treatment. Many people lose interest or become discouraged in the initial phase of their program because they are not well educated as to the process of recovery. The first step is the most difficult, so congratulations on making the decision to experience recovery and begin a new life! Welcome to the Duke City Recovery  Family, we will do our best to ensure that you have a successful experience.

• Most people are unaware that during the induction phase, you will experience temporary and moderate sickness until a therapeutic level is reached. It is important to meet with your clinician to move through this challenging process as often as possible. Our new participants will visit with their counselor several times during the first two weeks to experience a “check-in.” This process is to ensure that you are doing well and feeling better day-to-day until your therapeutic level is achieved. Remember, this is temporary, so hang in there! A couple of weeks of adjustment is nothing compared to the rest of your life in happiness!

• We often get concerns from participants that their family, friends, employers, etc. express discontent for this medication and should not be on this “type” of road to recovery. Most have a false perception that opiate addiction is something that can be stopped “cold turkey;” however, this is not the reality. In situations such as this, we invite the concerned individual to attend a session to discuss apprehensions and educate them on the value of this process. In most cases, and after an understanding is gained, the participant has a new level of support in their recovery. In short, many people lack understanding! It’s okay, let’s talk!!

• In your first month at DCRT you can expect to meet with your therapist to complete a person-centered Comprehensive Treatment Plan. This means that you can use your voice and establish realistic goals to plan for your recovery and a resilient lifestyle! You can address spirituality; relapse prevention; family therapy; relationship problems; marital issues; parenting; employment; education; or, anything else that you need assistance with. Our Master’s Level and LADAC clinical team has a wealth of skills so we’re prepared for anything, to include advocacy! Come on in and let’s start your new journey! You have so much to look forward to…whew…what a relief!! God Bless You!

With a welcome heart,

Therese M. Duran, MA, LPCC, LADAC

Clinical Director/Forensic Evaluator

 What Not to Say to Children

 

What not to say to children when recent events and tragic deaths bring up a conversation that is common in communities where addiction runs rampant.  Schools are not the havens we would like to believe. Substance abuse and violence are often first experienced there. We look for signs and symptoms but even when we find them what can be done? Here’s some suggestions of what not to do.

 

 

Holiday seasons and the celebrations that come with them are difficult for people in recovery. Many things can happen to increase the risk of relapse. Addiction is considered a progressive-relapsing disease, and recovery from addiction is challenging to the most motivated of drug abuse individuals. Drug abuse is more prevelant this time of year and we are providing a tool to help you look for signs and symptoms that a relaps may be impending. It is adapted from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) tool addressing the Holidays

Review the list below and check the items that might cause problems for you and your recovery program during the holidays. Then total up the number of checkmarks and assess your relapse risk below:

More alcohol and drugs at parties

Shortage of money because of travel or gift buying

More stress caused by hectic pace (for example, traffic, crowds)

Normal routine of life interrupted

Stopping exercise

Not going to AA or NA meetings

Not going to therapy

Party atmosphere

More contact with family

Increased emotions from holiday memories

Increased anxiety regarding triggers and craving

Frustration of not having time to meet responsibilities

Coping with “New Year’s Eve” type occasions

Extra free time with no structure

Other:_____________________________________________

How did you do?

Mild: If you checked one to three items, the holidays produce only a slightly increased risk of relapse.

Moderate: If you checked four to six items, the holidays add a lot of stress to your life. Relapse risk is related to how well you cope with increased stress. Your score indicates that you need to plan carefully for your recovery during the holidays.

Severe: If you checked seven or more items, the holidays add a major amount of stress to your life. Relapse prevention means learning how to recognize added stress and taking extra care during dangerous periods. Your score indicates the holidays are one of these periods for you.

NO ONE HAS TO RELAPSE!