What’s It Like to Undergo Residential Treatment at Driftwood Recovery?

When someone has an active addiction, they may require the use of residential treatment to help them recover. Contrary to popular belief, residential treatment is not a prison, nor are people forced into it against their will. Residential treatment is a voluntary program where a person can recover from addiction in comfort and safety. Of course, every mental health care and addiction treatment facility is different. Some will focus on specific treatment philosophies, such as holistic addiction treatment. Others will focus on treating specific addictions or different types of people, such as senior-focused treatment or alcohol addiction. It’s always important to understand what a treatment facility specializes in to get accurate care.

Driftwood Recovery is a treatment facility that offers several types of treatment programs, including a residential treatment program. However, Driftwood Recovery is different compared to other treatment facilities, as it also focuses on treating chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia. This is because chronic pain can be a major factor in the development of a mental illness or disorder, which includes addiction. The staff at Driftwood Recovery believes in making sure clients have all of their needs met, which influences what is offered as part of their residential treatment program.

What to Expect in Residential Treatment at Driftwood Recovery

Adults from all walks of life can seek treatment at Driftwood Recovery. Many enjoy the quiet and serene atmosphere, allowing people to escape the public eye and seek treatment in comfort and peace. Every client is given an assessment, which allows them to be matched with the treatment providers that can provide the most help. Sometimes, a client will require stabilization in the form of medically assisted detox before they can begin treatment. This process is overseen by medical professionals, which allows clients to detox from alcohol and other substances safely. Treatment plans are carefully discussed with the client, which allows them to communicate their needs with their treatment providers.

Driftwood Recovery focuses on holistic and evidence-based treatment, especially the mind-body connection. Clients spend time learning about body wellness, which includes fitness and proper nutrition, as well as reducing the effects of chronic pain and tension. They also have access to common therapies, such as psychotherapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Group and family therapy is also common in residential treatment. Specialty consultation is also used to make sure a client has all of their needs met, especially for underlying conditions such as trauma or grief.

Overall, care is taken for those in residential treatment to have a varied day between moving their body, receiving treatment, and having plenty of time for rest and socialization. It’s ideal for those with a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders, as they can find all the treatment they need in one place. The purpose of residential treatment is to provide structure so the client can focus on treatment without much worry. To make this more effective, clients live on campus throughout the treatment program. How long treatment lasts depends on the individual, but it’s typically between one to three months.

What Does an Average Day in Residential Treatment Look Like?

The day begins by waking up and the client making sure their living space is tidy. Then, clients spend time in meditation before eating breakfast. Nutrition is incredibly important, so all meals are prepared by an in-house chef and are balanced to provide both tasty and nutritious meals. Clients have some time after breakfast to enjoy the serene campus outside before gathering with staff for Morning Reflection. After setting their goals for the day and reflecting on their emotional and physical status, it’s time to begin with treatment.

The exact treatments done during the day depend on the client. However, some are universal. All clients have a fitness plan based on their goals and physical ability and thus will spend some time exercising. This also serves the purpose of getting the client to move their body. Part of this time is spent outside, which can boost mood and overall wellness. Experiential therapy will happen twice a week, allowing clients to participate in exciting activities, such as the onsite rope course. Clients also participate in skill groups and individual sessions with their treatment providers and therapists. During the middle of the day, clients enjoy another nutritious meal where they can relax until their next treatments.

Once dinner has been served, clients begin to wind down for the day and do some tasks before bed. These tasks vary. Some choose to study, others will go to recovery or 12-Step meetings, or just call their loved ones. It’s during this time that many clients will participate in therapeutic recreation, such as art. After some time to relax, it’s time for bed, and a fresh new day awaits.

A Place of Safety and Comfort

Residential treatment is effective because of the safety and comfort it provides. Clients can recover easily knowing that there are professionals available at all times who can help them in an emergency. It provides a place free of the normal stressors of life. Clients are given everything they need: food, shelter, and compassion, so they can solely focus on their recovery. Driftwood Recovery is private and secure, allowing clients to recover without harassment from the outside world. Many clients from big cities also appreciate the location, which allows them to enjoy the outdoors in a way they wouldn’t normally be able to.

Clients can trust that they will be taken care of in residential treatment. Again, residential treatment is not a prison where people are forced into it against their will. Countless clients have found not just healing and recovery but also the skills needed to uplift and improve themselves on a personal level. It’s safe, effective, and comfortable, which is what people need when recovering from addiction.

For those who have never been in residential treatment, it can be a scary and overwhelming prospect. Though these feelings are valid, there is nothing to fear while undergoing residential treatment at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas. Here, clients have access to a safe and supportive environment where they can recover away from common stressors. Overseen by compassionate and professional staff, clients receive the quality treatment they need to overcome their struggles. Residential treatment is not a prison. It’s a place where clients are encouraged to be kind to themselves. If you or a loved one is struggling or needs more information about residential treatment, don’t wait to get help. Call (512) 759-8330 today.

Many clients diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD) have co-occurring mental health issues requiring treatment or accommodations. Treatment may involve integrative care and a combination of therapeutic modalities tailored to the client’s needs. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Integrating both screening and treatment for mental and substance use disorders leads to a better quality of care and health outcomes for those living with co-occurring disorders by treating the whole person.” Driftwood Recovery uses comprehensive assessments and screening tools to ensure clients receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The Prevalence of Co-Occurring Disorders in Addiction Recovery

Many people with SUD have at least one co-occurring mental or physical health issue. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Of the 20.3 million adults with substance use disorders, 37.9% also had mental illnesses.” Multiple barriers exist to stop people from getting the help they need to address co-occurring disorders.” Among adults with co-occurring disorders who did not receive mental health care, their reasons for not receiving it were:

• 52.2% said they could not afford the cost.
• 23.8% said they did not know where to go for treatment.
• 23.0% said they could handle the problem without treatment.
• 13.6% said they feared being committed.
• 12.4% said it might cause their neighbors to have a negative opinion of them.
• 11.1% said they did not think treatment would help.
• 10.6% said they did not have the time.
• 10.1% said they were concerned about confidentiality.”

Reducing barriers to care often involves educating individuals, families, and communities about the realities of addiction and mental health treatment. Staff at Driftwood Recovery support the treatment of mental health disorders by providing psychoeducation, building trust with clients, and offering multiple treatment options.

Simultaneous Treatment for Dual Diagnosis

Staff members may use multiple therapeutic modalities to address co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders over the course of weeks or months as clients step down through different levels of care. Individual and group therapy is tailored to each client’s unique needs and adjusted as needed to meet recovery goals. However, not everyone needs or benefits from simultaneous treatment for mental health and substance use issues. For example, individuals with severe SUD and mild anxiety related to specific phobias may want to address the primary condition first and follow up with treatment for less severe mental health issues. Every case is unique. Driftwood Recovery uses comprehensive assessments and in-depth interviews with clients and their families to determine the best approach to treatment.

The Importance of Clinician Collaboration During Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders

At Driftwood Recovery, every department collaborates to ensure a consistent and positive client experience. Every staff member, from the front desk to the management team, ensures clients feel heard, respected, understood, and valued while participating in treatment. Consistency and structure have a profound positive effect on mental health treatment and reduce stress for individuals in recovery. Open communication and collaboration between departments also ensure every staff member feels supported and can provide clients with the best treatment options.

Collaboration between staff members does the following:

• Reduces human errors in treatment
• Improves the effectiveness of therapy and other treatments
• Decreases uncertainty or confusion for both clients and clinicians

Driftwood Recovery prioritizes high-quality, collaborative care between clients and the care team. Before treatment begins, the clinical team establishes a foundation of trust with clients. People in treatment are more likely to express needs and concerns if they feel comfortable with staff. Co-occurring disorders are easier to treat when the care team has a clear understanding of what the client needs to feel more in control of their recovery. The social connection between clinicians and clients plays a critical role in treating dual diagnosis.

Common Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Some of the most common mental health disorders diagnosed alongside substance abuse include:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Schizophrenia
• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Bipolar disorder

Some clients may require treatment for multiple forms of substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. Staff members at Driftwood Recovery have decades of combined experience helping clients heal from multiple active and underlying issues affecting mental health.

How Does Driftwood Recovery Treat Co-Occurring Disorders?

Driftwood Recovery uses the following to treat or manage symptoms and side effects of co-occurring mental health disorders:

• Prescription medications
• Evidence-based and alternative holistic therapies
• Individual therapy
• Peer support
• Self-help groups

Case managers monitor client progress and advocate for them with the care team to ensure individuals in treatment have access to essential mental health support and services.

Clients With Multiple Disorders Often Require More Comprehensive Care

Co-occurring disorders often require more comprehensive care and longer time in treatment or aftercare. The one-on-one time spent with these clients is frequently increased to ensure the care team has the time to address underlying issues impacting mental health. Driftwood Recovery limits the number of clients seen at one time to ensure clients and staff feel supported and have time to truly engage and dig deep into the issues impacting mental health. Everyone is given the time and space to navigate recovery at their own pace.

Many clients with substance use disorder (SUD) have co-occurring mental health issues impacting their ability to function, manage symptoms, and successfully achieve sobriety. Some of the most common co-occurring conditions, including mood disorders, can impact motivation and engagement in treatment. By treating all active conditions and underlying issues, clinicians better prepare clients for long-term recovery. Co-occurring disorders may require extended treatment. The care team uses personalized treatment and aftercare plans to ensure clients continue to receive the support they need to heal from SUD. Staff members at Driftwood Recovery support client recovery by using evidence-based and alternative holistic therapies to address co-occurring disorders alongside substance abuse. To learn more about our programs and services, contact us at (512) 759-8330.

As the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes, recovery is a process of change. Moreover, recovery has four major dimensions: health, home, purpose, and community. In finding your sense of purpose, looking toward education for sustained recovery can support making meaning in your life.

Whether you find meaning in work, volunteering, or school, it gives you the resources you need to participate in society. The sense of belonging and connection that comes with an adaptive approach to living supports recovery. In particular, education for sustained recovery can open the door to increased self-understanding.

At Driftwood Recovery, we know forming healthy attachments in yourself and with others can turn clinical insight into action. The action of insight starts with opening yourself up to learning and growing. Education is an integral part of the recovery process that gives you access to tools to support deeper self-understanding. With deeper self-understanding, you are more equipped to make positive changes in your life. Thus, seeking education can support building a self-directed and fulfilling life in recovery.

Yet, you may question how education for sustained recovery impacts your life. Considering the relationship between substance misuse and school can provide insight into the power of education for sustained recovery.

Drop Out: Addressing the Impact of Substance Use on Education

As the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes, experiencing multiple symptoms of severe substance use disorder (SUD) in adolescence is consistent with SUD in adulthood. Thus, the severity of substance misuse in adolescence highlights increased vulnerability for SUD. The consequences of early misuse can be seen in the academic performance of young people.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is a close relationship between health and education. Students who use substances in adolescence are more likely to have poor academic grades. In particular, students with higher grades are less likely to use marijuana, misuse prescription medication, or use substances before the age of 13.

Yet, how does substance use contribute to poor academic performance? As noted in the Journal of School Health, substance use is associated with learning and memory deficits. Regardless of age, substances change your brain, like interfering with the way information is processed. Thus, substance misuse can impair thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Moreover, substance use can be even more detrimental to underage people because the brain is still developing. The impact substance use can have on your ability to do things like concentrate, problem-solve, or make decisions highlights impairment to the types of skills needed to be academically successful in school. Furthermore, many of the impairments that are born out of SUD can also be found in mental health challenges. Therefore, mental health disorders showcase their impact on academic success.

Addressing the Challenges of Mental Health in School Settings

When left unaddressed, mental health challenges can impede education for sustained recovery. Thus, with more awareness of education and mental wellness, you can recognize the value of education for sustained recovery. As noted in Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, difficulties with externalizing or internalizing problems contribute to poor academic performance and higher dropout rates.

For example, externalizing issues like conduct disorder (CD) can lead to conflict with school authority figures. Through conflict with teachers and administrators, children experience social exclusion, like frequent suspensions that disrupt academic participation. At the same time, internalizing issues like depression and anxiety in school contribute to impaired psychosocial functioning, like difficulty concentrating.

The consequences of poor academic performance can follow you across your life course, from the loss of job opportunities and financial instability to poor health and life satisfaction. Thus, looking at the impact of mental health challenges on learning highlights the value of education for sustained recovery.

Benefits of Education for Sustained Recovery

There are a variety of educational benefits that can support building a meaningful life. For instance, more job opportunities and, thus, higher pay can be beneficial to maintaining recovery. However, building a life based on purpose is also valuable to recovery through education. Whether you are seeking your GED or higher education in college, education for sustained recovery can expand your understanding of yourself and your place in the world. Some of the ways education for sustained recovery can empower you include:

• Self-esteem, self-worth, and confidence
• Belief in yourself
• Self-awareness and self-understanding
• Expanded knowledge and skills

Despite the benefits of education, the thought of returning to school can be daunting. School can be a stressor that impedes well-being. However, with support, education can be a tool for adaptability and wellness. Through supportive programs like recovery high schools (RHSs) and recovery colleges, you can find education for sustained recovery no matter where you are in your journey.

Breaking Down Barriers: Supporting Education for Sustained Recovery

RHSs provide both educational and therapeutic support to students in recovery. Combining recovery meetings, family programs, wellness activities, and traditional education classes helps students learn how to live a life in recovery in the real world. Similarly, recovery programs in college also provide access to educational and therapeutic support. According to “College Programming for Students in Addiction Recovery” by Noel Vest et al., collegiate recovery programs (CRPs) create a recovery-friendly environment where things like peer support, recovery housing, and easy access to counseling staff can help you thrive.

Healing With Education for Sustained Recovery at Driftwood Recovery

Access to resources like CRPs is made possible by services like an alumni program. Through alumni, you gain access to a wide range of services and resources like education for sustained recovery. At Driftwood Recovery, we believe providing access to resources like education consultants and employee assistance programs strengthens our therapeutic impact for lasting recovery. Through an expansive and connection-driven network, our alumni make education for sustained recovery possible. No matter where you are on your recovery journey, we are committed to providing the resources you need to thrive in every part of your life.

Challenges with SUD and/or mental health disorders can impede your functioning. Substances and mental distress can cause impairment in areas like concentration, decision-making, and feelings, which can increase the risk of poor academic performance and dropout. The consequences of poor academic performance can include financial insecurity, loss of opportunities, and poor health. Thus, a lack of quality education can further increase your risk for challenges with SUD and mental health disorders. However, with support like recovery high schools and college recovery programs, education for sustained recovery is possible. At Driftwood Recovery, we are committed to connecting you to a wide network of services to help you thrive. Call us at (512) 759-8330 to learn more about education in recovery.

The impact of grief on a person’s mental health cannot be overstated. Grief doesn’t just affect mental health. It can also have a profound effect on someone’s physical health as well. When someone is feeling the impact of grief, it can feel all-consuming. Grief, they say, is love with no place to go, a sentiment that illustrates the pain people experience when experiencing a loss.

However, despite the impact of grief being painful, it is a natural part of life. It’s normal for someone to experience grief when they lose something or someone dear to them. Sometimes, this grief can become severe enough to overtake someone’s life for months to even years at a time. It takes specialized and compassionate treatment, such as the treatment found at Driftwood Recovery, to make peace with grief and heal from the pain of loss. To further understand how grief affects us, we must first understand what grief is.

An Overview of Grief

Grief is the pain and anguish we feel after a great loss. Contrary to common knowledge, grief doesn’t always come from the death of a loved one. It’s also possible to grieve the loss of an experience. For example, a person who was parentified as a child may grieve the loss of their childhood. People may also feel grief over losing a part of themselves. An example of this is someone grieving over the loss of their hair due to chemotherapy treatments. The impact of grief can be felt from losing a job, getting a divorce, losing your independence, and more. All forms of grief are valid, no matter the source.

The impact of grief is especially felt when someone is undergoing a form of complicated grief known as prolonged grief disorder, a condition featured in the DSM-5. It is marked by intense feelings of loss that prevent someone from living a normal life. Sometimes, these symptoms can persist for years and can greatly impact a person’s relationships, job, schooling, or daily life.

The symptoms of prolonged grief disorder are:

• Intense pain, sorrow, anger, rage, and rumination over your loss
• Difficulty in accepting the loss
• Detachment or persistent numbness
• Intense focus on reminders or avoidance of reminders of who/what you have lost
• Persistent or intense longing or pining for who/what you lost
• Focusing on little else but your loss
• Self-destructive behavior, such as substance abuse, self-harm, extreme risk-taking, and suicidal ideation

How long it takes to grieve varies from person to person, but the impact of grief can be felt for years after the loss. Even “normal” grief can seriously affect someone’s mental health, even if it is temporary.

The Wide-Scale Impact of Grief on Mental Health

Grief can be felt long after a loss. Sometimes, this grief is intense enough to result in various conditions. Depression is, perhaps, the most common illness or disorder that can develop as a result of grief. Anxiety of any form is another, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) being likely to develop after a traumatic loss. Thankfully, these disorders can be treated, and a person can recover from them as they complete the grieving process.

The impact of grief can cause several symptoms that are temporary but still take a toll on a person’s mental health. Some of these symptoms are:

• Feeling lethargic, apathetic, or a lack of energy
• Difficulty falling asleep or sleeping too much
• Feelings of sadness, emptiness, guilt, loneliness, and anger
• Difficulty focusing or connecting on tasks
• Withdrawing from relationships and social interactions
• Crying or sobbing
• Questioning parts of your life, such as life goals, religious beliefs, or career choices
• Appetite changes, such as over-eating or not eating at all

These symptoms can make it temporarily difficult to function in day-to-day life. The impact of grief makes it difficult to get proper rest and nutrition, resulting in the brain and body being unable to heal and nourish itself. It’s not uncommon for people who are grieving to suffer from poor health due to the stress grief places on the body. In severe cases, a person may attempt to mask the pain they feel by engaging in substance abuse. When grief is causing serious harm to yourself and others, it’s time to seek help.

Lessening the Impact of Grief

Finding help for grief may feel intimidating at first, but there are many treatment providers out there who specialize in guiding their clients through their loss. It may feel like nothing can help, but several treatment options exist to help those who are currently struggling with the impact of grief. At Driftwood Recovery, clients find understanding and compassionate treatment designed to help those who are grieving. They can also find the help they need for other illnesses and disorders associated with grief, such as addiction and depression. You can trust that a treatment provider will never belittle your grief. Instead, you can trust that they will treat you with respect and care.

Grief is not always something a person can process on their own. It’s always okay for someone to seek help for their grief, no matter how mild or severe it is. However, it’s also important to remember that grief is not a punishment. Part of the impact of grief is to feel negative emotions, guilt being one of them. Willingly subjecting yourself to suffering is not a way to absolve these negative feelings. Instead, be kind to yourself and let professionals help you experience joy and hope again.

Grief is a powerful emotion that can affect us both physically and mentally. When grief becomes overwhelming, it can have a profound negative effect on mental health. It can feel like grief is all-consuming, but anyone can get the help they need to find peace again. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients learn how to cope with their grief healthily. Care is taken to bolster the family so they, too, can get the help they need to support their loved ones through a difficult time. With compassionate and quality treatment, clients find a safe place to heal. If you or a loved one is struggling with their mental health, call (512) 759-8330 today.

Many clients in treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) have underlying trauma impacting their ability to heal and move forward with their lives. Staff members may also have a history of trauma affecting how they interact with clients and build collaborative relationships. Trauma-informed care (TIC) reduces the risk of retraumatization for both clients and clinicians. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “TIC views trauma through an ecological and cultural lens and recognizes that context plays a significant role in how individuals perceive and process traumatic events, whether acute or chronic.” Driftwood Recovery uses TIC to help clients and clinicians build trusting and beneficial relationships.

Trauma-Informed Care Protects Clinicians From Experiencing Secondary Trauma

Clinicians benefit from TIC. According to the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), “Compassion fatigue, or secondary traumatic stress disorder, is a natural but disruptive by-product of working with traumatized clients . . . Many types of professionals, such as physicians, psychotherapists, human service workers and emergency workers, are vulnerable to developing this type of stress.” Clients in treatment for substance abuse are more likely to have a history of traumatic events impacting their mental health. Staff members working with these individuals must protect their own health by being mindful of how they respond emotionally to the other person’s trauma.

TIC protects staff from secondary trauma by doing the following:

• Acknowledging how trauma impacts a person’s behaviors, beliefs, and thoughts
• Ensuring clinicians adjust their approach to care in a way that supports trauma recovery
• Creating a bond of trust between clients and the care team
• Empowering clients to play an active role in their recovery, reducing stress on clinicians

TIC plays an essential part in recovery for many people with unaddressed trauma. Staff members at Driftwood Recovery are trained to recognize the signs of trauma and treat individuals using empathy and compassion. Being mindful of the impact caused by trauma ensures clients and clinicians feel comfortable, safe, and respected during interactions.

Building Trust By Respecting Client Boundaries

Clients deserve to have their boundaries respected. Often, people with a history of trauma experience trust issues due to past instances of boundaries being pushed or ignored by others. Staff members at Driftwood Recovery understand the importance of building trust with each person. Treatment for substance abuse is much more effective if clients feel comfortable relying on their care team and honestly sharing thoughts or concerns.

Healthcare workers build trust with clients by doing the following:

• Actively listening and providing support based on client needs, preferences, and treatment goals
• Being open and honest about potential challenges and offering multiple solutions
• Collaborating closely with clients and their loved ones to create a personalized treatment experience
• Modeling healthy interactions and social behaviors

Clients are more likely to respond positively and build trust with staff who show them respect and take the time to truly understand their needs. TIC reduces miscommunication and improves the client-clinician relationship.

Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care in Treatment for Substance Abuse

TIC creates a supportive environment. Clients feel more comfortable engaging with their care team, and staff members gain confidence in their ability to manage challenges related to client care. Trauma-informed, personalized care plans ensure consistent and appropriate treatment through every stage of recovery.

Clients also gain self-awareness and more significant insights into their condition if they engage in TIC. Studies have shown that many “individuals who seek treatment in behavioral health settings have histories of trauma, but they often don’t recognize the significant effects of trauma in their lives; either they don’t draw connections between their trauma histories and their presenting problems, or they avoid the topic altogether.” Clinicians use therapy and other treatment services to help clients better understand and process their trauma.

The Relationship Between Trauma and Substance Abuse

Trauma and substance abuse share many common risk factors, including:

• Family history of substance abuse or mental health disorders
• Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
• Physical, verbal, emotional, or sexual abuse
• Neglect
• Unhealthy relationship dynamics
• An unsafe living environment

People diagnosed with SUD have a higher risk of experiencing traumatic events. In addition, individuals with SUD often lack the necessary social support and coping skills to heal from trauma without the help of mental health professionals.

How Does Driftwood Recovery Incorporate Trauma-Informed Care?

Driftwood Recovery provides staff with training and resources designed to address trauma-related issues in a relevant and appropriate way. In addition, staff meet each day to discuss any potential problems or concerns related to client care. Treating clients who have a history of trauma may require additional collaboration from staff members. Driftwood Recovery encourages staff members to share skills between departments to ensure every staff member feels supported and provided with the resources to address trauma-related issues. Everyone benefits from TIC and treatment practices.

Trauma-informed care is an umbrella term used to describe various treatment policies, approaches, and services designed to address trauma and reduce exposure to trauma triggers. Many clients with substance use disorder and mental health issues have underlying trauma impacting their ability to heal. Staff members trained to provide trauma-informed care recognize the signs of trauma and how to address it without further traumatizing the client. Driftwood Recovery uses trauma-informed care to protect clients and clinicians, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe participating in treatment for SUD. The care team also educates families on the impact of trauma and how to provide support to loved ones in treatment. To learn more about our programs and services, call us at (512) 759-8330.

Healthcare workers must find a delicate balance between providing empathetic care and maintaining positive mental health. Many people in healthcare experience emotional or physical burnout due to the pressures of the job unless they find a way to create a healthy work-life balance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 46% or “[n]early half of health workers reported often feeling burned out in 2022, up from 32% in 2018.” Driftwood Recovery supports staff members by providing services and policies designed to protect their mental and physical health. Staff members are encouraged to balance work and mental health by setting clear boundaries and practicing self-care.

How Does Being in Healthcare Impact Work and Mental Health?

Healthcare jobs rely on people to help others through a physical or emotional crisis without letting it negatively impact their own well-being. Treating individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health issues can be demanding and emotionally distressing for some people in healthcare. Many individuals experience burnout if they don’t have the skills to cope with challenges in the workplace. According to the Journal of Primary Care and Community Health, “Burnout is a psychological response to chronic workplace stress that can lead to feelings of exhaustion, increased mental distance from one’s job, negativism, cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy.”

Being in healthcare affects mental health by doing the following:

• Increasing exposure to emotionally distressing situations
• Requiring people to display positive behaviors even under extreme stress
• Decreasing time spent doing healthy activities, including socializing with loved ones and practicing self-care
• Exposing people to secondary trauma

Clients in the healthcare field may struggle with distrust of authority or underlying trauma, making it important for healthcare workers to treat each person with empathy and compassion. Constantly being mindful of tone of voice, word choices, and body language may become overwhelming for some people. The need to be supportive can sometimes feel like it takes priority over self-care. However, if healthcare workers don’t care for their own well-being, they cannot provide clients with the highest quality services.

Emotional Burnout in Healthcare

Physical and emotional burnout is a serious problem in healthcare. People treating clients with addiction or mental health issues often have a desire to help and go the extra mile to help clients heal, even if it means sacrificing personal time. However, providing non-stop emotional support to others without caring for oneself leads to emotional burnout. According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), healthcare workers “are at an increased risk for mental health challenges and choosing to leave the health workforce early.” Driftwood Recovery helps staff avoid emotional burnout by meeting every day to discuss ways to support and uplift one another. Working as a team ensures no single person feels overburdened.

Resources for Maintaining Work and Mental Health

Not everyone has access to a strong support system or the financial stability to regularly practice self-care. Navigating workplace stressors and responsibilities on top of a complex home life may leave some healthcare workers feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to create a healthy balance. The managers at Driftwood Recovery prioritize employee mental health by ensuring schedules allow for reasonable amounts of time off each week to allow staff to recharge and engage in meaningful personal activities.

Some of the resources professionals use to maintain work productivity and positive mental health include:

• Individual counseling or therapy to reduce stress
• Nutritional counseling or coaching to improve diet and general health
• Self-help groups for healthcare workers
• Apps for managing time and creating self-care schedules

Community-based resources are also available to help connect workers with essential support services related to health and wellness, family support, further education, or career advancement. Staff feel less stressed when they have access to the resources they need to do their job and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

How Does Driftwood Recovery Prioritize Balancing Work and Mental Health?

Driftwood Recovery respects staff members’ time and skills. The treatment center shows appreciation for each employee by providing training, opportunities for advancement, emotional support, a reasonable work schedule, and benefits to support staff. Every member of management practices the values of transparency, honesty, and integrity to ensure staff members feel comfortable reaching out if they need accommodations or additional mental health support in the workplace.

Maintaining Positive Mental Health Helps Clients and Clinicians

The mental health of clinicians and support staff directly impacts client outcomes. According to HHS, in one survey, “76% of U.S. workers reported at least one symptom of a mental health condition,” and “81% of workers reported that they will be looking for workplaces that support mental health in the future.” Driftwood Recovery supports staff through various policies and procedures designed to address mental health needs in the workplace. Clients benefit when staff adopt a more balanced approach to work responsibilities.

Balancing work and mental health is difficult in any profession. However, it is especially important in healthcare. Staff members working with individuals experiencing physical and emotional crises have a greater risk of developing mental health disorders if they don’t establish healthy work-life boundaries. Often, clinicians and support staff go above and beyond to help others manage emotional distress without giving themselves the grace of stepping back to reduce stress. Driftwood Recovery ensures the care team has the resources, tools, and opportunities to look after their own well-being. Healthy staff members create a welcoming and nurturing space where clients feel comfortable, safe, and supported during recovery from substance abuse and mental health disorders. To learn more, call us at (512) 759-8330.

Many traditional rehab programs focus on abstaining from misusing substances. Although abstinence is a vital part of maintaining recovery, true healing is a whole-person process. Through an attachment-based approach, you have learned how important rebuilding a connection with yourself and others is to healing. Thus, looking at the impact substance use has had on other parts of your life, like work, highlights the need to support well-being beyond abstinence. As a result, employment in recovery is a valuable tool for supporting sustained recovery by addressing your needs to lead a quality life.

At Driftwood Recovery, we know that without attachment, challenges with addiction, pain, and mental health disorders can impede your ability to take care of yourself. Through attachment, you have the tools to foster independence. Thus, living an independent life means supporting your needs in every area of life. The ability to live a purposeful and quality life after treatment starts with employment in recovery.

However, you may question how employment in recovery can help you sustain recovery. With more insight into adaptive skills, you can understand the value of employment in recovery. Therefore, first recognizing how substance misuse has impaired your self-image can highlight the connection between employment and well-being.

The Impact of Substance Use on Employment

According to Healthcare, substance use and employment have two causal directions. Unemployment can increase mental health disorders. At the same time, challenges with mental health disorders can also lead to unemployment. Losing your job and, therefore, your income causes psychosocial stress as your ability to meet your basic needs is impaired.

Some of the ways stress from unemployment can harm your psychological well-being include depression and anxiety. The overwhelming nature of depression, anxiety, and distress can lead to avoidance behaviors. Therefore, the distress of unemployment can then increase your risk of unhealthy coping strategies like substance use disorder (SUD). When you are overwhelmed by the stress and complications of economic hardship, you are more likely to engage in self-medicating.

On the other hand, unaddressed challenges with SUD and other mental health disorders can impede your ability to function in your life. For example, challenges with SUD can reduce your productivity and increase your absence from work. Thus, difficulties meeting work responsibilities and obligations increase challenges in achieving and or maintaining gainful employment. Furthermore, unaddressed SUD can also be a risk factor for relapse.

The stress that comes with not being able to provide for yourself and a lack of purpose can make relapse possible as life stressors stack and erode your resilience. Looking at the causal directions between SUD and unemployment highlights the importance of employment in recovery. Further, increasing your awareness of substance use’s impact on functioning also showcases the importance of your mental and emotional well-being in employment.

Understanding Mental Health and Employment Challenges

Challenges with unaddressed mental health disorders can lead to impaired functioning. When your functioning is impaired, it becomes more difficult to manage or build skills that support your movement through everyday life. The symptoms of mental health disorders like depression and anxiety can impair many areas of function, like decision-making, concentration, and time management.

Moreover, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mental health disorders often co-occur with physical health conditions. Thus, co-occurring conditions like chronic pain further impede functioning and employment in recovery. With more insight into the impact of SUD and mental health on employment, you can understand the value of employment in recovery for sustained healing.

The Benefits of Employment in Recovery

Employment in recovery is an important goal for independence and leading a purposeful life. Finding stable and meaningful employment in recovery is vital for well-being and relapse prevention. As noted in Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, employment in recovery is a critical health intervention and supports meaningful outcomes for a variety of challenges. Whether you have experienced difficulties with SUD or other mental health disorders, employment in recovery can give you tools for a healthier you. Listed below are some of the benefits of supported employment in recovery:

• Increase self-esteem
• Self-reliance
• Increase self-confidence
• Reduce symptoms
• Decrease stigma
• Foster interpersonal relationships
  • Increase your sense of belonging
• Support independence
  • Personal income

As the CDC states, a recovery-supportive workplace can create a culture of support that encourages lasting recovery. Through a recovery-supportive workplace, barriers to care are lowered, stigma is reduced, and relapse can be prevented. Despite the long-term benefits of employment in recovery, there are still barriers that impede access to work after treatment.

Addressing Barriers to Employment in Recovery

As noted in “Identifying Barriers to Employment After Substance Use Disorder Treatment” from the California Association of Alcohol and Drug Program Executives (CAADPE), there is a unique set of needs and challenges in finding work for sustained recovery. Some of the barriers you may experience to seeking and sustaining employment in recovery include:

• Lack of training
• Low paying jobs
• Lack of childcare
• Unstable housing
• Unreliable transportation
• Lack of digital literacy
• Poor access to support services

With more awareness of the barriers to employment in recovery, you can see the value of alumni as a resource for sustained recovery.

Alumni Connections: Supporting Employment in Recovery at Driftwood Recovery

Leading a purposeful life does not start with the end of your symptoms but rather with more tools to cope. Through an alumni program, you can find the guidance and support you need to navigate the stressors of job seeking. With an active alumni program, you have access to resources to build skills like resume writing.

Alumni give you access to a wider network of connections for references and referrals. At Driftwood Recovery, we are dedicated to giving you a safe space to heal in person and through our app so you can build a quality life in recovery no matter where you are on your journey. With safety, there is space for you to continue to foster connections and engage in courageous recovery in every part of your life.

Employment in recovery is vital to building a quality life. Through employment, you can improve your sense of self and adapt to the stressors of work and other parts of life to foster an independent life in recovery. Employment encourages interpersonal relationships that support your sense of belonging. However, barriers like lack of training and skills can impede access to quality employment. At Driftwood Recovery, we are committed to providing a safe and peer-driven alumni network where you have access to a wide variety of resources. Through our alumni program, you have guidance and support to lead a purposeful life in sustained recovery. Call us at (512) 759-8330 to learn more today.

There are many people today who live with a traumatic brain injury. Sometimes, the injury is mild and can be managed with medication or therapy. In other cases, it can be severe and have a significant impact on a person’s ability to function normally. Traumatic brain injuries are more common than most people think and can happen to anyone. A simple bump to the head can alter a person’s life dramatically.

Those with a traumatic brain injury will have to make several life changes to cope with their new life. Part of this is being made aware of several conditions that can affect those with a traumatic brain injury. One of these is addiction. It may feel like it’s not possible for those with a traumatic brain injury to recover from addiction. The truth is that there are many treatment facilities, such as Driftwood Recovery, that can help. These facilities have specialized treatment providers that aid clients who live with a traumatic brain injury.

To understand how addiction affects a person with a traumatic brain injury, we must first understand what a traumatic brain injury is.

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury is an injury caused to the brain by an outside force. They may also be known as an intracranial injury or a TBI for short. These injuries can range from mild to severe and can cause problems with normal brain functions. Some of these functions include movement, communication, understanding, and process of thought. A person with a traumatic brain injury may get mentally exhausted faster than others and may have difficulties with concentration. Sometimes, a person can recover from a traumatic brain injury in time with treatment. In other cases, it’s a condition that a person will live with for the rest of their life.

There are two types of traumatic brain injury. These are penetrating (when an object pierces the skull and injures the brain) and non-penetrating (caused by an external force that moves the brain in the skull). A person can be diagnosed with both penetrating and non-penetrating traumatic brain injury.

The most common causes of traumatic brain injury are:

• Falls, such as falling off a ladder or down a flight of stairs
• Blunt trauma accidents, such as being hit in the head by a falling object
• Sports injuries, especially in high-contact sports
• Vehicle crashes and accidents
• Assault and violence
• Explosions or blasts, typically seen in military servicemen

It’s important to understand that a person with a traumatic brain injury can still live a full and joyful life. They simply may need extra help or need to rely on learned skills to help them cope with their injury. When addiction is introduced, it can make it harder for a person with a traumatic brain injury to function normally.

How Does Addiction Affect Those With a Traumatic Brain Injury?

There is still research being done to determine if people with a traumatic brain injury are more likely to develop an addiction. A particular study published by the Journal of Neurotrauma examined military servicemen post-injury. It’s determined that there could be damage that makes someone with a traumatic brain injury more likely to develop an addiction. However, it could also be the response to the trauma that caused the injury in the first place. Trauma is one of the leading causes of addiction, as people will often self-medicate to cope with their trauma.

However, addiction does affect those with a traumatic brain injury differently compared to someone without. The issues related to balance, walking, and talking are made worse with the introduction of drugs and alcohol. These can worsen to the point where the person involved is likely to become injured again due to the lack of coordination and balance. Remember, falls and vehicular accidents are common causes of traumatic brain injuries. These accidents are commonly the result of inebriation.

Substances can also have a powerful effect on someone with a traumatic brain injury. This can make it more difficult to undergo the detox process, requiring careful supervision and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) when necessary. Substances may also impact a person’s memory or ability to concentrate if they live with a traumatic brain injury. In some cases, a brain injury may be severe enough that substance use can cause a seizure, especially with alcohol use.

Seeking Help at Driftwood Recovery

Perhaps the most common way addiction affects those with a traumatic brain injury is by making the recovery process longer. Those with a brain injury often struggle with the ability to focus or concentrate for long periods. Sometimes, this can prevent someone from being able to communicate well with those who want to help them. This then requires the use of tools and skills specifically designed to help those with a traumatic brain injury. In some cases, specialized providers are needed to help clients navigate treatment safely and comfortably.

That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, treatment is set up in a way that allows anyone to get the specialized treatment they need. The assessment process allows clients to be evaluated and then set up with professionals most equipped to help them. Medical professionals work closely with other treatment providers to give clients the best comprehensive treatment possible. By seeking treatment at Driftwood Recovery, clients find a safe and supportive environment to recover.

Remember, a traumatic brain injury can complicate treatment, but it doesn’t make it impossible. There is no shame in having a traumatic brain injury, and no person at Driftwood Recovery would judge someone for living with one. As long as someone has access to quality treatment and is willing to make a positive change, they can recover from addiction.

Having a traumatic brain injury can affect many parts of a person’s physical and mental health. For those struggling with addiction, a traumatic brain injury can make someone feel unsure if treatment is even possible. It’s important to know that anyone can recover from addiction, even if they have a traumatic brain injury. It takes careful planning, the oversight of professionals, and compassionate and quality treatment. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, those living with a traumatic brain injury can seek the care they need to recover from addiction. To learn more about how you or your loved ones can get help while living with a traumatic brain injury, call (512) 759-8330 today.

Early recovery can be an exciting time in your recovery journey. You may be filled with so much enthusiasm for your new life in recovery that attending your alumni weekly meetings may feel pointless. Your eagerness to start building your new life in recovery is understandable. Being able to look at where you came from to the sobriety you have now is incredibly rewarding.

You should be proud of all the work you have done. It took courage to recognize there needed to be a change. However, it is important to also remember that recovery is not a final destination. Recovery is a lifelong process in which you continue to put in the work to learn and grow. Attending weekly meetings with alumni is one important way to stay present in your recovery.

At Driftwood Recovery, we recognize that living a life in recovery means learning how to live on life’s terms. Rather than succumbing to life stressors, the work of recovery is to learn how to flow with the tide of life. Thus, sustained recovery is born out of learning how to engage in adaptive coping strategies. With adaptive coping, you can meet the challenges and opportunities that come with rebuilding your life.

Through our peer-driven network, you can find compassionate support and accountability to build the foundation you need to maintain recovery. Yet, it may feel difficult to imagine why continuing to attend weekly meetings can be valuable for you. Therefore, expanding your understanding of addiction and recovery as an occupation can give you more insight into the importance of weekly meetings.

The Occupation of Addiction: Addressing the Ups and Downs of Early Recovery

As noted in the Occupational Therapy Journal of Research, addictions are occupations in themselves that impact your sense of identity. Addiction shapes the roles, routines, and behaviors you engage in as using substances becomes your identity. However, in recovery, that occupation or identity in addiction is removed from your life. The shift from actively using to sobriety can evoke similar feelings of loss when you transition from one job to another. This shift in addiction occupation is a significant change in your life and your sense of self.

Listed below are some of the ways sobriety can leave you feeling uncomfortable and vulnerable to relapse in early recovery:

• Change or loss of identity
• Loss of routine
• Role confusion
• Loss of social connections
• Reduced motivation

Looking at the occupational sense of loss that comes with early recovery highlights the value of weekly meetings. Without weekly meetings, you are left vulnerable to the ups and downs of recovery. Meanwhile, active participation in weekly meetings can give you the support and stability you need to form and embrace new roles, routines, and connections.

Yet, you may question what attending weekly meetings will look like.

What to Expect During Alumni Weekly Meetings

The core work of alumni weekly meetings is to provide support and hold each other accountable for personal growth. Therefore, weekly meetings in recovery may look a little different each week to meet your needs that week. The goal of weekly meetings is to check in to see how you are doing and address any areas where you need additional support. We are here to support you and help you address every area of your life because sustained recovery is a whole-person process. Whether you are doing well or facing some challenges at work, school, or in your relationships, weekly meetings give you space to process challenges in healthy ways.

Now, you may question what makes weekly meetings with alumni so special. You may think you did all this kind of work and built connections in group therapy when you were in treatment. Addressing the differences between group therapy and support groups will give you insight into why an active alumni program is vital in your life.

Understanding the Difference Between Group Therapy and Support Groups

Group therapy is used in the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD). In group therapy, you are usually brought together with others with similar conditions under the guidance of a clinician. Through group therapy, you engage in sharing lived experiences and build skills to effect positive change.

On the other hand, a support group is designed to enhance the tools you learned in treatment. A support group can be run by a clinician or by peers to offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can share your triumphs and challenges. Through a support group, you find a sense of belonging and support to cope with the challenges that try to rock the positive changes you have made. Thus, engaging in weekly meetings is a bridge between the work done in treatment and maintaining that work in recovery.

The Benefits of Continuing Weekly Meetings in Recovery

One of the most valuable elements of weekly meetings is those close connections. As noted in Substance Abuse: Research and Treatment, the cornerstone of fostering peer relationships is shared lived experiences. In your weekly meetings, each member shares their lived experiences with addiction and recovery to learn from each other. When you know you are not alone in your successes and setbacks, hope is enhanced. With more hope comes motivation to continue to do the work, engage in sober activities, and nurture supportive relationships.

Strength in Connection: Fostering Lasting Recovery With Weekly Meetings at Driftwood Recovery

At Driftwood Recovery, we believe a vibrant alumni program is vital to reintegration into everyday life. We know it can be easy to get swept up in the thrill of recovery. It can be equally as easy to get knocked down by life stressors and recovery challenges. Recovery is not static but rather a dynamic process in which lasting healing is built on a commitment to continue to learn and grow. Through our peer-driven network, we are dedicated to giving you the encouragement, accountability, and connection you deserve to thrive.

Early recovery can be an exciting and vulnerable time in your recovery. The joy of being sober can lead you to believe any more support services and resources are unnecessary to live your life. Wanting to get back to living your life after treatment is understandable. However, it is important to remember that recovery is not a static destination but a dynamic process of continual growth across your lifespan. Attending weekly meetings in an active alumni program is valuable to help you manage challenges and maintain your recovery. Through weekly meetings, you can find the sense of belonging, support, and accountability you need to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world. Call Driftwood Recovery at (512) 759-8330 today.

Sometimes, the importance of nutrition is understated when it comes to health. Most people go through their daily lives with little care for what they put into their bodies. With this mindset, it can pave the way for not just nutritional deficiencies but real harm to your mental health. That’s why care is taken at Driftwood Recovery to educate clients about the importance of nutrition. When someone has the tools and skills to make good and healthy decisions, they are likelier to choose the healthy option.

Understanding nutrition can be difficult for some, especially those who grew up with food insecurity or had no nutritional education. It’s okay to not be sure what to do at first. Learning how to eat healthy is easy, especially when you can put what you learn into practice. Once you understand the importance of nutrition, you can make better decisions about your health. Before we can understand how to better integrate nutrition into our lives, we must first understand why it’s so important.

The Importance of Nutrition for Health

Our bodies are essentially biological machines. What we put into our bodies becomes fuel that goes on to influence all aspects of our minds and bodies. A study published by Frontiers in Nutrition points out the link between diet and overall well-being. Evidence suggests that nutritional deficiencies impair our ability to function on a physical and mental level. A poor diet can result in poor moods, which can snowball into mood disorders, such as depression. Our internal gut microbiome is influenced by our diet, which can also have an impact on our mental health.

Being aware of the importance of nutrition is also vital to understanding how various conditions affect our daily lives. Having poor nutrition can worsen the symptoms of several conditions, especially chronic pain. This ties into how nutrition influences our physical health. If we don’t eat foods that nourish us, we don’t have the energy to do much of anything. This is especially important in treatment, as it is both physically and mentally intensive. You cannot pour out of an empty cup. Without being able to replace the energy that you lose, it’s nearly impossible to focus on treatment.

The act of eating and having a meal is also important in establishing healthy routines. Having a routine can help clients set aside time to slow down and enjoy a relaxing meal. This can reduce stress and provide balance to a busy day. So, in all, nutrition is vital to all aspects of life, and its importance cannot be ignored.

How Driftwood Recovery Emphasizes the Importance of Nutrition

The staff at Driftwood Recovery understands the importance of nutrition in their client’s lives. That is why there is an onsite chef who is trained in creating nutritionally balanced and delicious meals. Clients at Driftwood Recovery can expect to receive meals that promote healing, replace the energy spent in treatment, and nourish all parts of the body. Those in the residential treatment program don’t have to worry about figuring out the importance of nutrition right away, as they can trust the onsite chef to care for their nutritional needs.

That’s not to say that clients don’t have to learn about the importance of nutrition. Part of the treatment is learning life skills that make healthy changes in their lives. Clients learn about what foods are right for themselves and their needs from an onsite registered dietitian. For example, a client may be suggested to eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids to promote brain health. Clients are given time to learn and practice these skills in a supportive environment. Many clients eventually leave treatment with a better understanding of food and its role in their health.

Integrating Healthy Nutritional Choices Into Daily Life

With time and practice, anyone can integrate the importance of nutrition into their daily life choices. The skills learned in treatment can go on to help clients live healthier lives, but at the pace they set for themselves. For one, clients are not expected to start big. Instead, they work up to making big changes by making several little ones.

For example, changing your diet suddenly can be a shock to someone’s system. It’s hard to get someone who has never eaten a vegetable in their lives to suddenly love them. By adding small amounts of vegetables to at least one meal a day, clients can begin to get used to eating them. Soon enough, there is a vegetable in each meal, allowing them to receive vital nutrients.

Learning to cook and create your meals is another great way to learn the importance of nutrition. Cooking gives clients a bit of control over their lives. They may not be able to choose the conditions they have to live with, but they can choose what they put in their bodies. These choices can make a real difference to their levels of health and comfort. It lets them take an active approach to their recovery and gives them a sense of confidence and pride. Cooking is considered a healthier choice than grabbing “fast” food and allows someone to slow down and appreciate the efforts made to improve their health.

For those who further need help understanding the importance of nutrition, know that there will always be assistance. The staff at Driftwood Recovery will always be happy to show you how to change your life, one bite at a time.

Our bodies and brains are fueled by the food we eat. When we are not adequately nourished, our physical and mental health can rapidly decline. Understanding the importance of proper and comprehensive nutrition allows people to make healthy choices for themselves, especially if said choices can enhance the quality of their lives. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients learn about the nutrition they need to heal from an on-site registered dietician. With a focus on wholesome, nourishing foods, clients get the fuel they need to focus on their treatment and recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, chronic pain, or mental health, don’t wait to get help. Call (512) 759-8330 today.