Personality disorders affect more people than an average person may think. According to a collection of 46 studies spanning six continents, there is a worldwide prevalence of any personality disorder of 7.8%, with higher rates in high-income countries, about 9.6%. Those who struggle with a personality disorder face stigma and distrust. This is the result of many factors, such as media depictions, the difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships, and a societal reluctance to discuss personality disorders.
Perhaps the hardest part of struggling with a personality disorder is the higher likelihood of also struggling with addiction. Although both conditions are difficult to experience and live with, recovery is possible with the right treatment and willingness to make healthy life changes. Driftwood Recovery works to make the treatment process as smooth as possible for any condition. By providing a supportive and judgment-free environment, clients everywhere can recover in comfort.
The first step to recovery is recognizing when one needs to seek help. By understanding the link between personality disorders and addiction, it becomes easier to recognize the signs of both. Education is always the key to encouraging those who need to seek help. It has a secondary effect of bringing awareness to those struggling that recovery is never impossible.
What Are Personality Disorders?
Personality disorders are a group of long-lasting mental health conditions. These conditions impose distinct patterns of negative thinking and behaviors on a person. This, in turn, greatly impacts their relationships with others. These conditions cause a person to deviate from societal and cultural norms, which causes great distress. They often impair a person’s ability to function and relate to others, which may affect their social and familial lives. People with personality disorders often struggle with understanding emotions, tolerating distress, or may act impulsively.
Many personality disorders currently exist. They are grouped into three distinct clusters. These are:
- Cluster A: These personality disorders are characterized by a lack of interest or suspicion of others due to a consistent dysfunctional pattern of thinking and behavior. Examples include schizoid personality disorder and paranoid personality disorder.
- Cluster B: These personality disorders are characterized by consistent, unpredictable, over-dramatic behavior and over-emotional thinking patterns. Examples include narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
- Cluster C: These personality disorders are characterized by consistent dysfunctional patterns of anxious thinking and behaviors. Examples include obsessive-compulsive personality disorder and avoidant personality disorder.
Why Does Addiction Commonly Co-Occur With Personality Disorders?
There are several reasons why addiction is often prevalent in those who struggle with personality disorders. Personality disorders, for one, often bring a lot of stress and anguish to an individual. Since there is quite a lot of stigma surrounding personality disorders, a person may be afraid to reach out for help from a professional. To numb and manage these symptoms, a person may be tempted to self-medicate with substances and drugs, such as alcohol. Over time, the body will become tolerant to these substances. This forces the individual to need more of the substance to achieve the same effect. Once a person is dependent, it almost always leads to an addiction.
Another reason why addiction is strongly linked to personality disorders is due to some of the common symptoms associated with these conditions. Those who have a personality disorder marked by impulsive or reckless behavior are more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol. Peer pressure and the desire to fit in or be “cool” contribute greatly to the impulse to use these substances. Of course, many drugs and substances are highly addictive and may only take a single use to form a chemical dependency.
There may be biological pathways that may be behind why some people have a higher likelihood of developing both conditions. Genetics that make up our bodies may be a major factor. How our brains are built may also be one, as a person with a slightly different prefrontal cortex may struggle with traits like impulsivity. Negative life experiences, such as trauma, may influence if a person develops one or more conditions. Family history may also be a significant risk factor as well.
Despite these links, it’s important to remember that both these conditions are treatable with specialized care.
Finding Treatment and Healing at Driftwood Recovery
Driftwood Recovery, as a treatment facility, focuses on treating a wide range of conditions. Most of these conditions are co-occurring and require specialized treatment to address. These are called a dual diagnosis, as all conditions must be addressed at once to be properly treated. Personality disorders and addiction are all too common with a dual diagnosis, along with other conditions such as depression and anxiety. A dual diagnosis is treatable as long as the client is willing to ask for help and accept it.
The exact therapies vary depending on the individual and which addiction and personality disorder they are struggling with. However, some treatments are universal. Finding the underlying cause of both conditions is the first step, along with detoxing from the substance or drug being used. The next step is to treat the cause through various therapies, such as psychotherapy. Then, it teaches the client the skills needed to stay in recovery and achieve success post-treatment through various Driftwood Recovery programs. The courageous family program and alumni program are just a few programs used to build connections and healthy relationships with others. As personality disorders often impact a person’s relationships, such programs are vital to the recovery process.
Perhaps the most important part of treatment at Driftwood Recovery is the realization that these conditions do not make someone a bad person. It’s a safe place to find understanding and respect, especially from fellow peers who are in the same situation. Though the link between addiction and personality disorders exists, it’s not a set in stone thing. It’s always okay to seek help before these conditions gain a stronghold over your life. So, if you are struggling, don’t wait. Reach out for help today.
Personality disorders are as varied as the people who struggle with them. These struggles can be severe enough to lead to other conditions, including addiction. Struggling with both a personality disorder and addiction can feel overwhelming, but there is hope. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients find the treatment they need to recover from addiction and manage their mental health disorders. The staff at Driftwood Recovery are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for clients to find healing and understanding. If you or a loved one is struggling, don’t wait to seek help. Call Driftwood Recovery at (512) 759-8330 to begin your recovery journey today.
Healthcare professionals must follow client privacy laws even at home when discussing work-related events with loved ones. Private conversations with a spouse or other family members may violate client rights unless staff adhere to laws protecting client confidentiality. According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) “requires appropriate safeguards to protect the privacy of protected health information and sets limits and conditions on the uses and disclosures that may be made of such information without an individual’s authorization.” Driftwood Recovery prioritizes client confidentiality and ensures all staff members follow strict privacy policies protecting client information.
Client Privacy in the Workplace and at Home
Clients deserve to be treated and talked about with respect and dignity. Individuals participating in treatment build a bond of trust with their care team. Betraying that trust, even in the privacy of one’s home, may irreparably damage the client-clinician relationship. Being mindful during conversations with loved ones can help staff avoid mentioning information they should not share with unauthorized individuals.
Sharing Your Emotional Reactions Without Violating Client Rights
Many traumatic, stressful, unusual, and emotionally challenging events happen to individuals in healthcare. Staff watch clients and coworkers go through difficult situations on a daily basis. The constant stress and pressure to meet sometimes unrealistic expectations make it essential for healthcare workers to discuss their thoughts and feelings with members of their support system, including loved ones. Sharing these experiences can help healthcare workers avoid emotional burnout and maintain positive mental health. However, client confidentiality must be maintained during conversations with others, regardless of when or where they occur.
Client Privacy Laws in Healthcare
Clients have a right to confidentiality. Healthcare professionals and support staff ensure client records remain private and secure. Driftwood Recovery utilizes strict privacy policies to ensure client records and details remain safe and only available to authorized individuals. Healthcare workers must follow federal, state, and local laws protecting client records. Although employers should provide information on relevant laws, it is up to each healthcare worker to remain compliant with the latest privacy rules and regulations.
Some of the client information healthcare providers cannot disclose to unauthorized individuals include:
- Medical records
- Demographics
- Billing or payment records
- Medical imaging
- Laboratory tests, including blood tests and drug screens
- Insurance details
- Personal identifying information
Following client privacy laws helps healthcare professionals build trust with clients. Individuals are more likely to open up and share relevant personal information if they know their records and private conversations will not be shared with anyone outside the care team.
HIPPA and Private Conversations With Loved Ones
The HIPPA privacy rule makes it illegal to share a client’s protected health information (PHI) with unauthorized individuals, including coworkers, client family members, and trusted friends. Studies have shown that “[t]he HIPAA privacy rule applies to almost every department in a medical facility, even when walking to the parking lot with a colleague or on your home internet, the confidentiality of PHI must be preserved.” Even private conversations with loved ones should not include identifying client information, including age, gender, name, and the specifics of their medical condition or treatment.
Most people trust their friends and family and may feel comfortable disclosing information they know should not be discussed privately. Driftwood Recovery prioritizes keeping client records and medical details secure. Staff receive training to ensure they know how to avoid disclosing private information while discussing their work with loved ones. Even vaguely alluding to client circumstances may break the HIPAA privacy rule.
Healthcare workers protect client privacy in personal conversations by doing the following:
- Avoiding discussions about any unnecessary work details
- Ensuring all work devices, including phones, tablets, or computers, remain locked and secure at all times
- Using general terms to discuss any workplace events or interactions
- Educating friends and family members of the importance of confidentiality if they request additional information
- Avoiding sharing any work-related information over social media or in public areas
Professionals must protect their client’s safety and confidentiality at all times. Federal, state, and local laws apply at home and in public. If in doubt, staff may speak with a supervisor to clarify what information is confidential, what can be shared, or how to talk about workplace events with families and friends.
Being Mindful of What Details You Share With Loved Ones
Healthcare professionals must remain mindful of word choices, including the specific language used to describe clients while discussing work events with loved ones. Everyone needs to destress sometimes, and talking through challenging experiences with loved ones can help staff cope with workplace stressors more effectively. However, professionals must maintain client privacy while having those vital discussions. Disclosing traumatic, stressful, humorous, or positive workplace situations with loved ones cannot involve disclosing any identifying information. Practicing mindfulness and remaining aware of privacy laws protects clients and staff members.
Everyone needs to vent sometimes or share unusual situations they encounter at work. However, healthcare professionals must follow laws protecting client information, even during private conversations with family or friends. Without disclosing protected information, people can be honest with loved ones about work factors impacting their mental health and complex emotions related to client care. Healthcare professionals must remain vigilant about their words when describing clients or workplace situations. Coworkers must also practice discretion when discussing clients they are not actively treating. Client privacy takes precedence and should be supported at all times. Driftwood Recovery has policies in place to protect client confidentiality and privacy. To learn more about how we protect client information, call us today at (512) 759-8330.
Families often play an integral role in client recovery during treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health conditions. Healthcare professionals must navigate the family dynamics affecting client care and safety. Studies have shown that “family dynamics and the quality of family relationships can positively or negatively impact health.” Driftwood Recovery does comprehensive assessments and a full client history to determine if family relationships may complicate treatment and long-term recovery. Staff members use a compassionate approach to address client families and their concerns.
What Is a Safety Risk?
Safety risks are factors that negatively impact the emotional or physical well-being of individuals in treatment. Families play an important role in creating a healthy and nurturing environment for recovery. According to the Research Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (RAHRQ), “As essential members of the care team, families play a critical role in reducing harm and improving safety for patients.” However, in some cases, unhealthy family dynamics may pose a danger to individuals in treatment.
Examples of client safety risks healthcare providers may encounter include:
- Self-harming or self-destructive behaviors
- Adverse reactions to treatment or prescription medications
- Clients not understanding their treatment or making informed decisions about their care
- Family members removing clients from care against medical advice
Client safety is a top priority for the experts at Driftwood Recovery. Staff members regularly check in with clients and practice transparency to ensure clients feel comfortable disclosing any concerns. Clinicians and support staff understand the importance of remaining vigilant to signs of unsafe individuals interacting with clients. Communication or visitation rights may be revoked for individuals who pose a safety hazard to clients or staff.
Assessing Client Families and Relationship Dynamics
Healthcare professionals must assess clients to determine what underlying factors may impact their mental health and physical safety. Family relationships significantly affect how people see the world and think about their condition. Unhealthy family dynamics may cause some clients to feel ambivalent about treatment. Toxic relationships may also cause physical safety issues if they lead to domestic or family abuse.
Some of the ways healthcare professionals assess clients and their relationships with family members include:
- Gathering a family history
- Direct observation of family interactions and behavioral cues
- Structured interviews with clients and families
- Identifying roles within the family to determine relationship dynamics
- Assessing boundaries within the family
- Gaining cultural and socioeconomic context for clients and their families
- Identifying client resources and support networks
Healthcare professionals use these methods to better understand the relationships between clients and their family members. A comprehensive review of family dynamics allows staff members to create tailored care plans and address unique challenges clients face during treatment and ongoing recovery.
How Can Client Families Become a Safety Risk?
Families may pose a physical or emotional safety risk to clients by interfering with treatment or putting clients in danger. Healthcare professionals are mandatory reporters and must act if they notice any abuse affecting clients under their care.
Families may become a safety risk if they do the following:
- Enable substance abuse or other unhealthy behaviors
- Cause clients to be overly dependent on them for emotional or practical support
- Act abusive or aggressive toward the client
- Purposefully expose clients to triggers
- Dismiss the client’s need for treatment due to ignorance or stigma
- Violate client boundaries
- Emotionally manipulate the client
- Involve the client in illegal activities
- Fail to acknowledge or address toxic behavior
Clients may have difficulty recognizing unhealthy relationship dynamics. Staff may need to help clients work through understanding how remaining in unhealthy relationships could reduce the effectiveness of treatment, increase the risk of relapse, and cause them to experience complications in recovery.
Navigating Communication With Client Families During Treatment
Healthcare professionals should remain objective, calm, and focused on conflict resolution while communicating with families. Honesty and transparency also reduce the risk of causing further complications. Ultimately, clients control what information their care team can share with family members. Navigating conversations with client families should be handled with compassion and professionalism.
Following the HIPAA Privacy Rule
Healthcare professionals must adhere to HIPPA privacy laws while providing support and guidance to clients during treatment. Client information, medical records, and treatment progress cannot be shared with unauthorized family members without the client’s permission.
Toxic or unhealthy family dynamics often cause abusive and controlling family members to try to take control of their loved one’s treatment. Even well-meaning families may struggle to let go of control if clients choose not to include them in their recovery. Staff members must navigate those conversations with empathy and professionalism.
Following HIPAA requirements means clinicians and support staff cannot share the following with family members without client permission:
- Conversations between medical professionals about the client’s health and treatment
- Client contact information, including phone number and home address
- Information about billing and payments
- Client health records, including test results and official diagnosis
- Additional details of the treatment plan
Staff members at Driftwood Recovery protect clients by providing referrals to protective services for individuals struggling with relationship abuse or conflict.
Healthcare professionals may have to navigate situations where clients and their families have unhealthy or dangerous relationships. Domestic violence, abuse, severely co-dependent relationships, and other family dynamics may hurt a client’s mental health and/or substance abuse recovery during treatment. Family members often play a role in treatment and recovery. Rehabilitation and mental health programs provide clients with the resources and tools needed to address unhealthy or unsafe family dynamics. The staff members at Driftwood Recovery receive training on how to recognize and respond appropriately if clients’ families pose any type of safety risk. To learn more about maintaining client safety and addressing family issues, contact our office today at (512) 759-8330.
Self-medicating is a self-destructive behavior that often leads to addiction. Sadly, it’s an all too common behavior that affects countless people, usually the most isolated and vulnerable among us. There are many reasons why a person may choose to self-medicate instead of seeking help. Stigma, lack of education about treatment, poverty, shame, and many more all contribute to the likelihood of someone self-medicating. Understanding these factors and helping those who are struggling are all ways to prevent addiction and other harmful behaviors from taking root.
That’s why mental health care and addiction treatment facilities, such as Driftwood Recovery, work to educate the public and provide compassionate and quality treatment. Awareness and education are key in helping people recognize when they are self-medicating or have developed an addiction. It’s important to remember that anyone can overcome addiction and harmful behaviors if they are willing to accept help. The more awareness is spread, the better the likelihood that a person can get the help they need.
But before a person can get help, they must recognize what self-medicating looks like. Part of this may also involve examining their families closely and how they cope with difficulties. Sometimes, self-medicating behaviors are learned from our loved ones, which makes it even more difficult to recognize and stop.
What Is Self-Medicating?
When someone self-medicates, they are using a drug or substance without the oversight of a doctor to relieve a negative symptom, real or perceived. Doctors prescribe medication in the exact amounts needed to keep their patients safe. They also check in with their patients regularly to make sure they are okay. Self-medication is dangerous because, without the oversight of a medical professional, drug and substance abuse can cause serious harm.
Most people self-medicate to deal with chronic conditions. Those living with chronic pain and anxiety disorders are particularly prone to self-medicating. For example, a person struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may self-medicate by drinking alcohol to numb their nervous system. Someone struggling with pain may self-medicate with opioids. Marijuana is another common substance used for self-medication as a form of stress relief. Regardless of the substance or drug being used, a person will eventually become dependent, which can lead to addiction.
Being able to recognize the signs of self-medication before it leads to addiction is also essential. Ask yourself the following questions.
- Do you find yourself turning to a drug or substance to deal with a problem?
- Is it hard to get through a day without using a drug or substances?
- Do you feel as though you must have that drug or substance to function normally?
- When out of a drug or substance, do you panic or feel fear until you can obtain more?
- Do you use a drug or substance so you don’t have to think about painful memories, feelings, or bodily sensations?
Answering yes to any of these questions is a sign that you are self-medicating and should seek help.
Understanding Why Self-Medicating Often Leads to Addiction
It’s important to remember that addiction is never the result of a moral failing or the mark of a bad person. Addictions work by hijacking essential brain functions and causing them to become chemically dependent on the drug or substance. All substances and drugs will eventually lose their potency over time as the individual develops a tolerance. This forces the user to consume more of the substance or drug to achieve the same effect as before. Over time, this becomes a dependency, which then leads to addiction.
There is a chemical factor behind addiction that makes it difficult to overcome. However, the psychological factor behind self-medication is perhaps what keeps someone addicted longer. For example, a person struggling with trauma may be afraid to quit drinking because they don’t feel strong enough to face their trauma. Someone else might not know how to relax, so believe sincerely that they cannot relax otherwise without the use of substances or drugs.
Finding Treatment Before Self-Medicating Leads to Addiction
It’s possible to find help before a negative situation leads to addiction. Preventative mental health care is just as important as medical checkups in terms of maintaining health. There are many treatment facilities, including Driftwood Recovery, that can help someone manage their conditions and stress before they are tempted to self-medicate. Like doctors, mental health care professionals are bound by laws to protect privacy. Those who worry that asking for help may cause problems have nothing to fear. Mental health care professionals will advise, not judge, your situation. Their goal is to lessen your struggles and direct you to the resources you need to seek help.
If someone has already developed an addiction, they can still receive help. Enrolling in a specialized treatment program is the best way to recover from addiction, as clients will have access to vital services such as medical detox and medication management. There, clients also learn skills that negate the need for self-medicating and keep them in recovery. For example, they learn to build a support network or discover exciting sober activities that give them joy. These greatly reduce the urge to self-medicate during and after treatment.
No matter if you are currently addicted, on the cusp of addiction, or want to prevent it, help will always be available to you. So don’t allow yourself or a loved one to continue with this struggle alone. No problem is too big or too small to be solved, especially at Driftwood Recovery.
Self-medicating is a harmful behavior that many people engage in. Using drugs or substances without the oversight of a doctor can result in several problems, such as injury, addiction, or even death. People often engage in self-medicating to feel relief from pain, both physical and psychological. Treating this underlying pain gives clients the means to find healing so that they can begin a healthier and sober life. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients find the comprehensive and compassionate care needed to treat a wide range of conditions, bringing relief and healing to countless people. Anyone can recover from their mental health condition, including yourself and your loved ones. So don’t wait, call (512) 759-8330 today.
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders globally. Further, depression is one of the leading co-occurring disorders with substance use disorder (SUD). According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 21.5 million adults in the U.S. have a co-occurring disorder. Therefore, addressing the challenges of co-occurring disorders in early recovery and building a foundation of social support is invaluable to maintaining recovery.
At Driftwood Recovery, we know fostering connection through social support is vital to building a strong foundation for sustained recovery. The relationships you foster with others and the community you build through social support help turn the insights you learned in treatment into action. Our commitment to connection and community through social support can be seen in our attachment treatment approach. Thus, with a strong alumni program, you can be empowered by compassion, understanding, and sharing guidance.
However, numerous challenges in early recovery can make it difficult to lean into and build your social support system. Early recovery alone can make you doubt your ability to maintain your recovery. Learning to navigate your newfound independence in recovery can convince you that you are alone. Further, challenges with depressive symptoms can impede your ability to lean into your social support network.
How do you engage in your social support network when depression weighs you down? Expanding your understanding of depression in early recovery and its impact on you can provide insight into the value of social support for healing.
Understanding Depression in Early Recovery
Depression in early recovery can be tied to preexisting challenges with depression. For example, you may have turned to self-medicating with substances as a maladaptive coping strategy to combat life stressors and trauma. Further, depression can also be present in early recovery due to features of treatment and recovery like detox and abstinence. As SAMHSA notes, depressive symptoms are common in early recovery and are often associated with withdrawal and addiction identity. Thus, the physical and emotional loss of substances can wreak havoc on your body and mind in the form of depression.
Some of the ways depression can impact your recovery include:
- Helplessness
- Hopelessness
- Sadness
- Decreased motivation
- No energy to reach out for social support
Not only does depression in early recovery increase your risk for relapse, but it also has a significant impact on your relationships.
Impact of Depression on Interpersonal Relationships
According to the Development and Psychopathology Journal, depressive symptoms and interpersonal relationships can impact parent-child, peer, and romantic partner relationships. Depression and your interpersonal relationships can act as either a predecessor or a consequence of a weak social support network. Thus, depression and or poor social support can create a negative cycle in which depression can impede social support, and poor social support can increase depressive symptoms. Listed below are some of the ways depression and poor social support can harm well-being and recovery:
- More likely to be withdrawn, respond negatively, and behave aggressively
- Increases relationship conflict
- Lack of energy to take an interest or participate in activities with loved ones
- Problematic interactions and relationships like verbal abuse and emotional neglect
- Increases depression
Further, depressive symptoms can disrupt your recovery as it leaves you feeling like maintaining your recovery is impossible. Therefore, understanding and building a social support system can be invaluable to early and lasting recovery.
Addressing the Value of Social Support for Depression
Social support considers the number of relationships you have and the function of those relationships, such as informational, instrumental, and emotional. Moreover, the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health defines social support as the resources you receive from social activities, which are broken into objective support and subjective support. Objective support includes material assistance and direct services. Meanwhile, subjective support is the emotional experience in which you feel respected, understood, and supported.
Listed below are some of the ways strong social support can reduce depression and support mental well-being:
- Improves adaptive coping
- Increases psychological resilience
- Supports a sense of belonging
- Helps sustain motivation
- Decreases loneliness and negative self-appraisal
The benefits of social support highlight the value of close interpersonal relationships in your life. Yet, how do you build social support and dismantle the consequences of depression in recovery? Humans are social creatures; from birth to the end of life, there is an innate need for connection and attachment with others. Your family plays a significant role in your development as they often offer shelter, support, and affection, among other things.
Building Social Support With Family Therapy
Your family can play a crucial role in well-being, which presents family therapy as a valuable tool for building social support across different networks of support. Some of the ways family therapy can help repair relationships and foster social support include:
- You will learn how to express your experiences to your loved ones
- Your loved ones will learn how to best support you and themselves
- Increase family cohesiveness
- Improve problem-solving skills
Looking at the ways family therapy can support building your social support network showcases connection as a path to sustained recovery.
Empowering Social Support in Recovery at Driftwood Recovery
At Driftwood Recovery, we know considering the entire family in recovery can give you the well-rounded social support you need to heal and restore balance in your life. With attachment at the core of our approach, we place great value on mutual support and community. Moreover, through our commitment to whole-person healing, you are reminded that recovery is not done in isolation but in the embrace of a strong and compassionate community. Thus, our peer-driven network is designed to support you and your loved ones throughout your recovery journey. No matter where you are on your recovery journey, in a vibrant alumni program, you can find the social support you need to lead the courageous life in recovery you deserve.
Early recovery can be exciting as you learn how to build an independent life in recovery. Yet, early recovery can also come with challenges like depressive symptoms, whether or not you experienced difficulties with co-occurring depression before treatment. Challenges with depression in recovery can increase your risk for relapse as it disrupts your ability to lean on your social support network to manage stressors. However, you can reduce depressive symptoms and foster interpersonal connection for healing with family therapy. At Driftwood Recovery, we are dedicated to providing a supportive, sober community in alumni where you and your loved ones can find the resources you need to reclaim your life. Call us at (512) 759-8330 to learn more today.
One commonly occurring instance in life that is greatly harmful to one’s mental health is toxic relationships. These relationships can occur among family, friends, and peers. What makes these relationships dangerous is that they can sabotage treatment progress or even trigger a relapse for those in recovery. Perhaps the most heartbreaking thing about these relationships is that the connections you feel for them are real, which makes them difficult to break away from.
Learning to recognize and let go of toxic relationships is never easy. It’s especially true for those who are victims of manipulation tactics, such as gaslighting. At Driftwood Recovery, it’s considered an essential skill as part of recovery to identify and let go of toxic relationships. Recognizing who will help or hinder you during and after treatment can be stressful, but you don’t have to make these choices alone.
Mental health care professionals and providers are always there to help you examine your relationships to determine if they are toxic or healthy. Before clients can understand that they are in a toxic relationship, they must first know what a toxic relationship looks like.
What Are Toxic Toxic Relationships?
Many traits define a relationship as toxic. Simply put, it’s a relationship where a person, either inadvertently or maliciously, causes you persistent harm. This harm can be direct, such as physical hitting or outright insults. However, it can be subtle, such as isolating a person or manipulating them to serve a selfish goal. A healthy relationship is about support and mutual care, which makes us feel good. Toxic ones are heavily one-sided and will feel very unfair, tiring, or frightening.
These toxic relationships are difficult to deal with because of how prevalent they may be in intimate circles. They can come from family, a peer group, or even from a spouse or partner. It’s normal to still love and care about these people, even if they hurt you. It can make severing yourself from these relationships difficult. Toxic relationships also cause conditions such as depression, addiction, and suicidal ideation.
It’s normal to feel love for the people who hurt you. Sometimes, what makes toxic relationships so difficult is that when you can end the relationship, you may still mourn and grieve for the relationship you thought you had. Toxic relationships still cause harm in this way, and the experiences they leave with an individual often require professional help to treat.
How Do Toxic Relationships Harm Recovery?
Toxic relationships are dangerous to recovery for several reasons. Perhaps the most serious problem is that can trigger a relapse. Often, this is because toxic relationships are highly stressful, and a person may strongly feel the urge to use substances as a coping mechanism. Other times, a toxic person may maliciously or indirectly trigger a relapse by ignoring a person’s boundaries.
For example, a person completes treatment for alcohol addiction. A toxic person may refuse to limit their drinking around the person, may constantly invite them to places where drinking is present, or even encourage them to drink again. “Come on, you’re not fun anymore now that you are sober” and “It’s just one drink to celebrate” are all examples of manipulations that can trigger a relapse.
Toxic relationships are also bad for one’s sense of self-worth and self-esteem. A toxic person can grind down a person’s confidence and make them feel as though they are a failure. One thing a toxic person cannot stand is someone who is bettering their life. As a result, those who try to seek treatment may face sabotage. An example of this is a toxic person threatening to harm themselves if you try to leave them or seek opportunities such as getting a new job or undergoing treatment.
Finding Help at Driftwood Recovery
There are ways in which a person can learn to recognize and navigate toxic relationships. Such skills are important at Driftwood Recovery, as they allow clients to protect their recovery during and after treatment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one such therapy used to help those struggling with a toxic relationship. This therapy helps clients identify harmful thoughts and behaviors and guide them into making positive changes. CBT is also a critical therapy used to teach clients how to set and stick with healthy boundaries.
Group therapy is also helpful in identifying and navigating toxic relationships. Participants in group therapy have experienced many things and have plenty of wisdom to share. They very well may be the ones who can point out if you are being mistreated. Sometimes, having a sounding board of individuals that you don’t know can show you that your relationships are not healthy. Group therapy participants may also have advice on what to do and can share their personal experiences, showing that they are not alone.
Building confidence and establishing new and healthy support networks is another way to overcome toxic relationships. At Driftwood Recovery, clients learn that they are valid and worthy of care. This is often done through team-building exercises where clients learn to trust each other. Other times, it’s allowed to happen organically through recreation and downtime. Through each step, mental health care professionals are there to offer support and guidance. Once a client finishes treatment, they can join the alumni program, where they can continue the connections forged at Driftwood Recovery and beyond.
Recovering from a toxic relationship can be difficult, but healing is always possible. When someone recognizes they need help and accepts it, new doors open up to them.
Toxic relationships are one of the major contributors to addiction and other mental health conditions. They also will keep people from seeking help, achieving recovery, or even outright sabotaging a person’s sobriety. Learning how to recognize and let go of these toxic relationships is essential to achieving and maintaining recovery. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients have access to a wide array of therapies designed to help them recognize and remove toxic relationships from their lives. It’s never an easy thing to do, but with newfound confidence and self-respect, clients can take a stand to protect themselves and their recovery. To learn more about treatment at Driftwood Recovery, call (512) 759-8330 today.
Many healthcare workers experience chronic stress as a result of workplace and personal stressors. Supervisors and treatment facilities have an obligation to help staff reduce and manage stress. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), healthcare facilities can “[e]ncourage employees to make self-care a priority, keeping consistent daily routines when possible (e.g., try to get adequate sleep, make time for eating healthy meals, and take breaks during work shifts to rest, stretch, or check in with supportive colleagues, coworkers, friends, and family).” The supervisors at Driftwood Recovery understand the importance of supporting staff and provide various forms of assistance to ensure staff experience less stress at work.
Side Effects of Chronic Stress
Unmanaged stress can profoundly affect people’s lives and their ability to function at work. Individuals who experience trauma or chronic stress in the workplace may have a more difficult time finding effective ways to lower stress.
The side effects of chronic stress may include:
- Relationship conflict
- Physical health conditions, including headaches, muscle pain, high blood pressure, and increased risk of cardiovascular issues
- Difficulty maintaining emotional stability
- Significant changes to eating and sleeping patterns
- Increased risk of developing mental health disorders
- Difficulty concentrating
Everyone reacts differently to the symptoms and side effects of stress. According to Future Science OA, “In situations in which the stressor is overwhelming and cannot be resolved, stress becomes chronic.” Healthcare workers protect themselves by addressing problem areas immediately. Exploring healthy solutions for reducing workplace or home stressors supports positive mental health.
Workplace Risk Factors
Some of the most common workplace risk factors for increased stress include:
- Lack of work-life balance
- Unrealistic workplace expectations
- Excessive workload and inflexible scheduling
- Lack of quality time with loved ones due to overworking
- Uncomfortable work environment
- Unclear job responsibilities
- Heading about, witnessing, or experiencing trauma related to clients
- Interpersonal conflict between coworkers
- Limited opportunities for advancement
- Inconsistent, unclear, or ineffective communication
Identifying the factors impacting people’s mental health and stress levels makes it easier for them to develop effective and practical solutions. For example, healthcare professionals who feel underappreciated and overworked may benefit from transferring to a position where they have greater control over their schedule and access to a supportive environment.
4 Ways to Address Chronic Stress
Everyone reacts differently to stress. Below are four methods people use to address chronic stress and improve mental health.
#1. Setting Healthy Boundaries
Developing boundaries is essential at home and work. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Setting boundaries at work and home helps other people understand how to work with you.” In addition, “If someone steps over the line, you need to be able to name the behavior, and say that it isn’t acceptable.”
Not everyone knows how to set clear boundaries. Establishing boundaries at work involves doing the following:
- Defining workplace tasks and responsibilities, setting reasonable limits to protect mental and physical health
- Assertively communicating boundaries with coworkers and supervisors
- Ensuring family, coworkers, and management understand personal and professional limits
- Politely declining additional tasks or responsibilities interfering with a healthy work-life balance
- Avoiding work-related tasks at home and personal responsibilities while at work
- Taking regular breaks throughout the day
- Prioritizing tasks and delegating when appropriate
- Setting realistic goals and deadlines
- Utilizing support networks
- Regularly assessing boundaries and adjusting them as needed
Setting boundaries is an excellent way to reduce stress and improve mental health.
#2. Reducing Stressors at Work
Workplace stressors can come from many sources, including coworkers, supervisors, workplace policies, clients, and client families. Reducing stressors at work helps people avoid exposure to chronic stress. Identifying stressors and developing creative solutions for overcoming them ensures healthcare workers maintain positivity and a healthy work-life balance.
Some examples of how healthcare professionals reduce work stress include:
- Prioritizing self-care every day
- Avoiding excessive tasks and responsibilities
- Practicing self-compassion and patience
Every day brings new challenges, and people protect their mental health by caring for themselves. Healthcare workers cannot provide high-quality and effective care without prioritizing their psychological and physical wellness.
#3. Managing Expectations and Setting Realistic Goals
Everyone has goals they want to achieve in their personal and professional lives. However, some individuals may expect too much from themselves, coworkers, or their careers. Setting realistic expectations reduces stress by making personal and professional goals achievable.
People set achievable goals at work by focusing on the following:
- Specifying goals in exact detail
- Tracking goals using precise measurements
- Ensuring goals are based on current skill level and knowledge
- Making goals relevant to workplace responsibilities
- Setting clear deadlines for achieving goals
- Breaking down large-picture goals into smaller goals
- Celebrating successes and progress in achieving goals
#4. Relying on Friends and Loved Ones to Manage Chronic Stress
Chronic stress can impact how people feel about themselves and others. Relying on loved ones, sharing challenges, and asking for advice or support allows people to manage chronic stress more effectively. Driftwood Recovery staff members know they can rely on their supervisors, coworkers, and peers to help them navigate stressors in the workplace.
Many healthcare professionals experience chronic stress in the workplace, and some may have difficulty managing the various side effects. If left unaddressed, many minor life stressors may add up to cause extreme emotional distress and prolonged mental health issues. Healthcare professionals work in a high-demand environment where they may encounter traumatic or emotionally distressing situations. Pressure to meet unrealistic goals may also increase stress. Setting clear boundaries and achievable goals helps healthcare workers successfully manage stress. Driftwood Recovery ensures all staff have the resources and tools to avoid chronic stress and address issues impacting their mental health. To learn more about our facility, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.
Learning how to manage stress is an important part of growing up. As children, we learn how to manage stress and our emotions by observing and copying the behaviors of both our peers and adults. The presence of or lack of healthy coping skills learned as youth can greatly impact our ability to cope with difficulties once we become adults.
This is especially important when undergoing treatment for addiction and its co-occurring conditions. Although steps are taken to make treatment as smooth as possible, it’s still a stressful endeavor. Those who cannot healthily manage stress during treatment run the risk of burnout and may give up before treatment is completed.
That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, clients utilize therapies to teach them how to manage stress on their own. While learning these essential skills, clients also have access to stress-managing activities. Knowing when you are feeling stressed is also important, as well as recognizing when you need to manage it. Overall, stress management will become second nature over time, especially when given opportunities to practice these skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Although not a comprehensive list, here are a few tips all clients can follow to manage their stress.
Tip 1 – Manage Stress by Moving Your Body
Exercise and moving your body release endorphins, which are a feel-good chemical. It has been proven that exercise can help boost your mental health. Psychical activity allows stress to leave the body, especially when engaging in enjoyable activities.
At Driftwood Recovery, all clients are encouraged to move their bodies as part of treatment. It can be vigorous movement, such as playing a sport through therapeutic recreation, or more relaxing, such as yoga. Before beginning any physical activity, it’s important to speak with a professional to prevent injuries. They can give you the tips you need to enjoy physical activity safely.
Tip 2 – Self-Care for Stress Relief
Taking care of your physical and emotional needs is essential to manage stress. Many times, stress can be relieved by satisfying vital biological functions. Getting proper sleep and rest is one such way to manage stress, as it bolsters your body. Eating nutritious food at regular intervals, as well as remaining properly hydrated, can all reduce stress. If you feel stressed, it might be because you are tired, hungry, or thirsty.
Self-care also refers to fulfilling one’s emotional and spiritual needs as well. Engaging in activities that you feel are purposeful or working to better yourself are all forms of self-care. Many times people feel stressed because they feel as though they have no direction in life. Actively working towards a goal to fulfill this need can also manage stress.
Tip 3 – Find Healthy Outlets to Manage Stress
Stress is harmful because it remains inside a person until it can be expressed. Those engaging in unhealthy stress relief may engage in substance abuse or other dangerous activities to feel better. However, there are ways for a person to manage stress healthily without resorting to harmful activities.
Driftwood Recovery encourages clients to find hobbies and activities that release stress and give them joy. Some common examples of hobbies that can be used to manage stress include crafts, gardening, or playing games. Therapies designed to manage stress, such as art therapy, can provide a client with a lifelong outlet for stress.
Tip 4 – Reduce Stressors by Accepting Help
Another way to manage stress is to accept professional help. Attempting to accomplish a difficult task on your own can be highly stressful and frustrating. It’s especially true if you experience repeated failures, which can work to demotivate a person. In time, a person may even stop trying, which is something that cannot be allowed to happen in treatment.
To help with that, clients are encouraged to trust in others to help them. The bond between client and provider is only possible through this trust, which ultimately promotes healing. Driftwood Recovery makes this easier by being staffed by compassionate and understanding professionals. Clients can let go of their stress by allowing these professionals to help them carry their struggles. Understanding that your providers will give you time to breathe through the treatment process can go a long way to managing your stress.
Tip 5 – Manage Stress by Being Kind to Yourself
Perhaps the greatest tip of all to manage stress is to be kind to yourself. It’s not unheard of for someone to take up more of a burden than they need to and then put themselves down for failing. Sometimes, these negative thoughts and feelings of unworthiness will turn on a person, causing them to inadvertently self-sabotage their progress. If you want to manage stress healthily, you must treat yourself better.
This can be done by changing your mindset to be more compassionate and realistic. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help clients speak to themselves in a kinder and more understanding way. It allows them to set realistic goals so they can celebrate their successes. Part of this mindset is also accepting that failing is a part of life, but it doesn’t mean that you cannot try again. It’s always better to try than it is to preemptively give up.
This more positive mindset doesn’t just manage stress; it gives you support and encouragement to face any task that lies ahead.
Again, this list is not comprehensive, as there are many individual ways in which a client can learn to manage stress. If you feel overly stressed during treatment and recovery, it’s always encouraged to speak to a mental health care professional. They will be able to get you the therapies needed to encourage healthy coping skills and find relief. Stress is temporary, but the skills you learn to manage stress will last forever.
Stress can be a major contributor to addiction and other mental health conditions. Learning how to healthily manage one’s stress is an essential part of treatment and recovery. Without these skills, it’s possible to struggle with treatment burnout or even experience a relapse. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients spend time learning stress management and relief techniques as part of treatment. Not only do clients learn skills to mitigate the effect of stress on themselves, but they also have time to participate in stress-reliving activities, such as walks or breathing exercises. If you or a loved one is struggling, don’t wait to get treatment. Call Driftwood Recovery today at (512) 759-8330.
Some individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) or mental health issues require a higher level of care to address their unique situation and needs. Studies have shown that “[a]t the point of referral, there is both an opportunity to address a client’s unmet needs and a potential danger of losing the client.” Keeping the client engaged in treatment is essential to ensuring their recovery. The dedicated experts at Driftwood Recovery offer referrals to higher levels of care for individuals who need additional support to achieve and maintain sobriety or positive mental health.
Why Do Some Clients Require a Higher Level of Care?
Clients may have medical or behavioral issues impacting their ability to participate in lower levels of care. For example, some individuals with severe and persistent depression may require residential care to ensure they receive the best support and treatment for their condition. Individuals struggling with active eating disorders, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, and severe withdrawal from alcohol or drugs may benefit from 24/7 access to medical supervision and more comprehensive support services.
Some of the most common reasons clients receive referrals for higher levels of care include:
- A complex diagnosis
- Severe symptoms
- Rare side effects
- High risk of relapse
- Medical complications
- A need for specialized therapies
- Lack of a support system
- High-risk or self-destructive behaviors
- Significant behavioral issues
- Resistance to treatment
Some clients may have difficulty trusting healthcare providers and staff members due to past negative treatment experiences. Higher levels of care provide clients with one-on-one services and detailed follow-ups with clinicians.
The Role of Assessments in Determining Care
Assessments help clinicians determine the level of care clients need to experience the best outcomes. Client interviews, assessments, and other screening tools provide healthcare workers with a comprehensive understanding of each client’s needs. Experts at Driftwood Recovery use assessments to tailor client treatment plans by evaluating risk factors, symptoms, side effects, and underlying issues impacting client mental health. Clinicians benefit from frequently assessing clients throughout treatment, allowing them to adjust the care plan to address new concerns or changes in client symptoms.
Client Safety in Treatment Planning
The safety of clients and staff members is the highest priority during treatment planning. If clinicians believe clients may become a danger to themselves or others, they will suggest more appropriate forms of treatment. Collaboration between clients and clinicians ensures people in treatment feel heard, understood, and supported.
Some of the ways healthcare professionals help clients remain safe and comfortable during treatment include:
- Conducting comprehensive risk assessments during the initial interview and regularly throughout treatment
- Personalizing treatment and aftercare plans
- Communicating expectations to clients and their families
- Obtaining informed consent for every service and stage of treatment
- Creating a secure and nurturing environment
- Conducting regular safety and progress reviews to determine if client needs are being met
The experts at Driftwood Recovery work closely with clients to ensure they feel comfortable and engaged in treatment. If clients do not meet their recovery goals or begin to experience more severe symptoms, clinicians may refer them to a higher level of care.
When to Refer Clients to a Higher Level of Care
Healthcare professionals must ensure clients do not interfere with the recovery of peers in treatment. Individuals who require higher levels of care may need additional clinician support, taking time and focus away from other clients. If clients present a danger to themselves and others or a barrier to treatment for themselves and others, healthcare professionals may provide referrals to more appropriate community-based or private programs.
Staff members at Driftwood Recovery refer clients to other treatment options if they notice the following:
- Consistently escalating symptoms
- Medical instability
- A high risk for suicide or self-harm
- Nonresponsiveness to the current treatment
- Inability to maintain sobriety
- Motivation issues or low engagement
- Aggressive, violent, or disruptive behaviors
Care teams must collaborate to ensure consistent client care. Referring clients to another program or service should involve discussions between every care team member to ensure all factors are considered. Communication between healthcare workers, individuals in recovery, and client families ensures the care team has all the information they need to provide an appropriate referral.
Why Driftwood Recovery Refers Some Clients to a Higher Level of Care
Every client should have access to relevant and appropriate services. Driftwood Recovery may not have the best resources for everyone who struggles with substance abuse or mental health issues. The dedicated care team at Driftwood Recovery only refers clients to other programs that provide high-quality care and comprehensive services. Potential clients are always welcome to return to Driftwood Recovery after they learn to manage their symptoms. Staff members refer clients to higher levels of care only when other services result in better treatment outcomes.
Individuals in treatment for substance use disorder may benefit from being referred to higher levels of care until they feel comfortable returning to Driftwood Recovery as part of a continuum of care. Often, clients who need to be referred to more comprehensive programs transition back to treatment at the original facility once they establish a support system and practical coping tools. However, some individuals may require additional care for a prolonged period. For example, people struggling with active suicidal ideation or eating disorders may need to spend longer in residential treatment programs. Experts and support staff provide essential resources and referrals to higher levels of care when appropriate. To learn more about Driftwood Recovery, call us today at (512) 759-8330.
Unmanaged anxiety is a leading cause of preventable illness. Millions of people are diagnosed with anxiety-related mental and physical health conditions every year. Healthcare workers have an increased risk of developing clinical anxiety due to multiple factors. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, healthcare “workers were more likely to report symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorders.” Driftwood Recovery ensures staff members have access to support resources and a healthy work environment to reduce workplace stress and the risk of developing anxiety-related disorders.
How Does Work-Related Anxiety Impact Mental Health?
Workplace stressors have the potential to significantly impact psychological and physical health. Individuals working in the healthcare field often have to work in high-pressure situations with little emotional support. According to Health Psychology Research, “Workplace stress can influence healthcare professionals’ physical and emotional well-being by curbing their efficiency and having a negative impact on their overall quality of life.” Increased anxiety is a common side effect of chronic workplace stress. Anxiety can lead to severe side effects if left unmanaged.
Some of the most common issues caused by work-related anxiety include:
- The development of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and other mental health disorders
- Panic or anxiety attacks
- Emotional or physical burnout
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or oversleeping
- Abusing alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs to manage symptoms of anxiety
- Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
Healthcare professionals use mental health support services to manage anxiety-related issues at work. In addition, people often benefit from setting clear boundaries to separate workplace responsibilities and their personal lives. Driftwood Recovery provides staff with resources for developing a healthy work-life balance.
Physical Side Effects
Some symptoms may persist even after a person begins treatment for their anxiety. A few of the most common physical side effects of workplace anxiety include:
- Headache or migraine
- Muscle tension and body aches
- Rapid heart rate
- Heart palpitations or shortness of breath
- Gastrointestinal issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Dizziness
The physical symptoms exist along a spectrum. Many people are unaware of the potential side effects of untreated workplace anxiety. In some cases, anxiety causes prolonged emotional distress and may interfere with a person’s ability to successfully manage their responsibilities. Due to the high-demand environment of most healthcare facilities, staff may struggle to function while experiencing anxiety.
Warning Signs and How to Avoid Workplace Stress
Workplace stress is a leading cause of anxiety for healthcare professionals. Being able to identify the warning signs of anxiety-related mental health disorders and reduce workplace stress helps people create healthier routines.
Some of the most common warning signs of anxiety disorders include:
- Feeling unusually tense, restless, or irritable
- Uncharacteristic nervousness
- Increased startle response
- Difficulty concentrating
- Avoiding people, places, or things causing increased emotional distress
- Sleep disturbances
- Feeling panic, anxiousness, helplessness, or doom
People may not always have the option to avoid stressful places, situations, thoughts, or individuals. Healthcare workers concerned about their mental health can utilize workplace or community support resources. Driftwood Recovery ensures all staff have information about relevant services to help them successfully manage anxiety before it affects their quality of life.
Successfully Addressing Work-Related Anxiety
Individuals who feel heard and supported by their supervisors are less likely to develop anxiety-related disorders or emotional burnout. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “In 2022, health workers experienced a decrease in odds of burnout if they trusted management . . . had supervisor help . . . had enough time to complete work . . . and felt that their workplace supported productivity.” Setting clear expectations and boundaries allows healthcare professionals to work in an environment where they feel heard and valued.
A few ways individuals may successfully address work-related anxiety include:
- Practicing mindfulness and increasing self-awareness
- Prioritizing effective time management
- Talking to co-workers, supervisors, or loved ones about workplace stressors or concerns
- Maintaining overall health through regular physical activity, quality sleep, and eating balanced meals
- Being transparent about personal needs and preferences
- Replacing negative emotions or self-talk with affirmations and positive self-talk
- Increasing professional skills through continuing training and other opportunities
- Keeping the workspace organized and calm
Healthcare professionals who practice healthy coping skills and make positive lifestyle changes often notice a significant decrease in anxiety and emotional distress during work.
How Does Driftwood Recovery Support Staff Experiencing Work-Related Anxiety?
Anyone can feel anxious at any time. If anxiety begins to impact a person’s emotional and physical health or quality of life, they may benefit from additional support. The management team at Driftwood Recovery regularly checks in with every staff member to ensure they feel supported and empowered in their position. Everyone deserves to receive compassionate care if they begin to struggle with anxiety or other mental health issues. Staff have access to various services, emotional support, and community-based resources. In addition, staff members reporting concerns about mental health issues have access to community-based support resources. Supervisors can provide additional guidance to support staff struggling with their position.
Anxiety is a typical response to workplace pressure or stress. Healthcare workers face more stress compared to individuals in other professions. Many unexpected and sometimes traumatic experiences take place within treatment facilities. Staff must navigate these stressors with compassion and empathy. Sometimes, the toll of chronic workplace stress or other factors causes people to develop anxiety-related mental health disorders. Panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and generalized anxiety disorder are a few of the conditions healthcare workers may experience if they have unmanaged anxiety. Driftwood Recovery offers staff members the resources and tools they need to maintain positive mental health and manage anxiety or stress related to the job. To learn more, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.