How Addiction Affects Those With a Traumatic Brain Injury

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.

Most people feel vulnerable during treatment for substance use disorder (SUD). Establishing trust between clients and the care team ensures individuals feel comfortable and secure. According to Nordic Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, researchers reported that “[r]elationships with staff were described as crucial in all parts of the treatment.” Addiction recovery experts at Driftwood Recovery empower clients and help them heal from the effects of SUD. Creating trust is one of the most important steps in building a healthy foundation for addiction recovery.

How Does Creating Trust Improve Treatment Outcomes?

Many people diagnosed with SUD struggle with issues related to self-image, self-confidence, and self-worth. According to the previously mentioned article by Nordic Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, “People with SUD have long histories of perceived stigma, marginalisation, exclusion, social isolation, and shame.” Building trust helps people in recovery combat internalized stigmas, guilt, regret, and shame.

Staff members have the real-world experience and training to help guide clients through the process of self-discovery and self-empowerment during recovery. Clients gain self-confidence as they develop essential coping skills and learn to replace maladaptive behaviors with healthy alternatives.

Trust Between Clients and Clinicians Increases the Effectiveness of Treatment

Addiction recovery professionals set the tone for treatment in the way they manage client expectations. Honestly communicating potential challenges and offering guidance builds trust. Clients are more likely to make essential lifestyle changes and try new treatments if they feel their care team has their best interest at heart and will help them navigate those changes.

Building Trust Starts With the First Phone Call

Encouraging trust in the care team starts during the first conversation with potential clients or their loved ones. The initial phone call to Driftwood Recovery provides an introduction to treatment programs and clinicians. Members of staff discuss the potential client’s needs and expectations to determine if Driftwood Recovery offers the best fit. Individuals with more severe or complex conditions may need to be referred to a higher level of care. The care team openly discusses whether someone is or is not a good fit for Driftwood Recovery. Potential clients often respond positively to the matter-of-fact way clinicians present them with a clear set of treatment options.

Creating Trust Before Initiating Treatment

Some people may benefit from participating in a 7 to 10-day extensive assessment period to determine whether Driftwood Recovery is the best option for them and what treatment approaches may provide the best outcomes. For most clients, the first week is spent building a connection with the client, deep-diving into their specific situation, and collaborating with the client and their loved ones.

The Benefits of Creating Trust Between Clients and Staff Members

Staff members need clients to trust them in order to provide the best service and most effective treatments. Clients should feel comfortable sharing their needs, wants, concerns, and goals with their care team. However, without a bond of trust, it can be difficult for some people to ask for or receive help.

Staff members build positive relationships with clients by doing the following:

• Normalizing conversations about addictive behaviors, mental health, and recovery
• Being transparent about the benefits of specific treatments and services
• Collaborating with clients and giving them multiple treatment options to choose from
• Addressing confidentiality and privacy concerns by informing clients of their rights and respecting their boundaries
• Practicing patience, empathy, and compassion in every interaction

Empathy is an essential clinical tool for developing trust with clients. According to the Journal of Patient Experience, “[E]mpathy is a sequence, starting with the patient’s expression of emotion, followed by the perception, vicarious experience, and empathic response by the clinician.” Client reactions should guide how clinicians approach treatment services and daily interactions.

Encouraging, Uplifting, and Empowering Clients

Driftwood Recovery’s mission is to deliver a life-changing experience to clients and their loved ones. Staff members use their skills and expertise to empower and motivate clients. A client-centered approach to treatment focuses on the individual and not the disorder. Connecting with the person first and learning more about their cultural, personal, and spiritual preferences encourages clients to play a more active role in their recovery. According to Health Education and Behavior, “Designing culturally-sensitive personalized interventions is essential to sustain patients’ involvement in their treatment, and encourage patients to take an active role in their own health and health care.”

Clinicians empower and uplift clients by doing the following:

• Respecting client boundaries
• Actively listening to client needs and providing healthy solutions
• Ensuring clients have the tools to develop essential skills

Staff members ensure clients understand they control the speed and direction of their own recovery.

Ensuring Privacy and Confidentiality for Well-Known Clients

The care team is responsible for ensuring famous or well-known clients’ safety, privacy, and confidentiality. Driftwood Recovery provides celebrities and their loved ones a safe space to heal and grow together. Building trust from day one ensures all clients feel comfortable expressing themselves and developing essential skills for navigating long-term recovery.

Trust is an essential part of the client-clinician relationship. Individuals in recovery may struggle to build trust with people in positions of authority. Staff members at Driftwood Recovery treat every client with respect, dignity, and compassion. Clinicians have a responsibility to maintain accountability and help clients heal from SUD. Trust-building is one of the initial focuses in therapy to ensure clients become comfortable with the idea of confiding and relying on their care team. Driftwood Recovery uses evidence-based methods, including individual psychotherapy, group therapy, and peer support, to help clients feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs with the care team. To learn more about our programs and services, contact us today at (512) 759-8330.

Recovery is not a specific destination or finish line you reach. Healing from addiction is a process with different stages to address your specific needs. Recovery is an ongoing process in which you continue to learn and grow throughout your life. Thus, an alumni program where staying connected with your peers is at the core of the program is instrumental to lasting recovery.

At Driftwood Recovery, we know staying connected through a peer-driven network is an integral part of lasting recovery. We believe that mutually supportive attachment with others can give you the tools you need to reintegrate into everyday life. It may be easy to convince yourself that you have learned everything you need to know to manage after treatment.

While independence is important in recovery, healing is not a one-and-done experience. There will always be life stressors that try to erode your resilience. Therefore, building a vibrant community you can lean on when you need a little extra support and when you are thriving is vital.

Yet, you may question why an alumni program is right for you. What makes an alumni program a valuable lifelong part of healing?

Continuum of Care: What Is an Alumni Program in Recovery?

An alumni program is an important part of the continuum of care for sustained recovery. As noted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the continuum of care is a treatment system made of different levels. Through a continuum of care, you enter treatment or aftercare at an appropriate level for your needs. Some stages of the continuum of care include early recovery, maintenance, and community support.

The community support stage of recovery falls under engaging in an alumni program to support staying connected. Through an alumni program, you have access to a support network beyond your time in treatment. Not only do alumni programs support staying connected with peers and staff, but they also work to build connections in the wider community. Looking more deeply at the elements of alumni programs can showcase the value of alumni programs as a stage in the process of recovery.

Staying Connected: The Value of Alumni Programs

An alumni program gives you access to a variety of individual and community resources. Through an alumni program, you have access to support groups, employment opportunities, and educational opportunities. The many opportunities for staying connected after treatment reflect the reality that recovery does not end after treatment. There are some important triggers you can remove from your life, like relationships with others who still misuse substances.

Yet, spending time in treatment does not get rid of the universal stressors of life. You will always encounter challenges and setbacks in life. However, staying connected in an alumni program gives you support to process and overcome challenges in your daily life.

As SAMHSA notes, setbacks are a natural part of life, but with resilience, lasting recovery is possible. Alumni programs give you the space to foster and maintain your resilience to substance misuse. Moreover, through the four major dimensions of recovery, you can see the long-term benefits of continuing to attend alumni programs:

• Health
  • Overcoming symptoms
  • Making informed and healthy choices
• Home
  • Access to a safe and stable living situation
• Purpose
  • Engaging in meaningful daily activities
    • Work
    • School
    • Family caretaking
    • Volunteering
    • Creative hobbies
• Community
  • Building relationships and social networks

The recovery process and resources available in alumni programs highlight the value of staying connected. Community is a foundational part of healing and sustained recovery. As a result, staying connected to your peers in an alumni program is another tool in your recovery toolbox.

The Benefits of Staying Connected to Peers in Recovery

According to Psychiatric Quarterly, peer support is broadly defined as social and emotional support that includes sharing and learning from each other’s lived experiences. The mutual sharing of lived experiences with substances and or other mental health disorders supports personal change. By staying connected in an alumni program, you can continuously learn from and grow in your experiences. Listed below are some of the benefits of staying connected with your peers:

• Social connection
• Increased self-esteem and efficacy
• Offers ways to be of service to the broader community
• Improved sense of control
• Empowerment
• Increased sense of belonging
• Promotes hope
• Easy access to treatment and recovery resources
• Higher quality of life

The peer support provided in a vibrant alumni program reminds you that you are not alone in your recovery. In your alumni program, you always have a community of peers who believe in your capacity to lead a fulfilling life without substances.

Supporting Community Connection With an Alumni Program

Staying connected to your peers empowers you to be an active participant in the well-being of yourself, others in the sober community, and the broader community. As noted in “Community Engagement: An Essential Component of an Effective and Equitable Substance Use Prevention System” from SAMHSA, community engagement is an important and necessary process for healing and reintegration into society.

Through community engagement, you work with other stakeholders to address health-related issues and promote well-being. The work done in collaboration for community health and well-being puts the value of whole-person healing at the forefront of recovery. When you utilize your alumni program to help others, you deepen your sense of purpose beyond substances.

Courageous Recovery: Staying Connected at Driftwood Recovery

Giving back to your community fosters your sense of community and belonging. At Driftwood Recovery, we recognize the value of community integration for lasting recovery. With guidance and support, you are reminded of your strengths and skills to be a productive member of society. Staying connected with your alumni program is about more than staying abstinent. Supportive mutual connections give you the community support you need to reach your potential and thrive in recovery.

Recovery is not a finish line or a specific destination. Sustained recovery is a process of continual learning and growth throughout your life. Even without substances, numerous life stressors will challenge your resilience to unhealthy coping strategies. Therefore, staying connected through an alumni program is vital to maintaining healthy coping strategies and access to supportive resources. By staying connected to your peers in recovery, you can build lifelong connections in a community that holds you up in difficult moments and celebrates you when you are thriving. Thus, at Driftwood Recovery, we are dedicated to providing a vibrant and active alumni program where connection is at the heart of our peer-driven network. To learn more, call us at (512) 759-8330.

Individualized care is incredibly important for the health and safety of anyone seeking treatment for their conditions. No two people are alike, so why should their treatments be the same? Even with the same diagnosis, each person will have individual needs that dictate how they receive care. What may help one person may be detrimental to the next. That’s why individualized care is important in the treatment and recovery process.

At Driftwood Recovery, every client is treated like an individual. This way, they can have the greatest chance to heal and accomplish their goals. However, there is a stigma in society about mental health care that is hard for some to shake off. The idea that mental health care facilities are like prisons that mistreat the people seeking help within is heavily used in media and pop culture. This is far from what happens for those seeking care, especially today. To understand what individualized care looks like, we can take a look at how each client is treated at Driftwood Recovery.

What to Expect With Individualized Care

All clients can expect a commitment to individualized care at Driftwood Recovery. Clients begin by undergoing an assessment to determine their needs. Each individual will have their mental and physical health assessed by professionals to determine a general health baseline. However, Driftwood Recovery also offers specialty consults as needed for each individual. This is because other factors within an individual can influence which treatments would be most effective. Having a professional who can evaluate those who are struggling with specific needs, such as trauma or vocational issues, can help individuals feel valued and seen.

Once a client has been assessed, they participate in the creation of an individualized treatment plan. These plans are custom-tailored for each individual and allow the client to have a vested interest in their treatment. It’s a place where you and your interests are remembered and treated with respect. Clients can always expect to be treated with compassion and understanding, as Driftwood Recovery is a judgment-free zone. Understanding that they won’t be judged or mistreated allows clients to reach out for the life-saving care they need without fear.

Individualized care also means flexibility. Clients work closely with their treatment providers in individualized care, which allows adjustments to be made as needed. This allows clients to get the most effective care possible, letting them recover in comfort and safety. Paired with a supportive and nurturing environment, clients have the time to have all of their needs accounted for instead of being rushed or hurried.

Why Individualized Care Is So Important

As mentioned before, every person is an individual. Treatments for addiction, mental health disorders, and chronic pain are not a “one size fits all” type of care. These issues affect everyone differently on a deep physical and personal level. So, it’s only logical that the treatment approach should be just as varied as the disorders they are designed to treat. Individualized care is also a safety feature. If people cannot get the individualized care they need, they won’t have their needs met. When these needs are not met, it can have serious consequences on their health.

It’s also important for a person’s mental health to be seen and validated. Many times, people struggle in silence for years, feeling as though they are invisible. Providing individualized care lets the client know that they matter and they are worth the effort and care needed to recover. You and the people you love deserve to be treated as an individual. No person should be relegated to a number on a page, especially when it comes to something as important as your health. Being seen as a person first and not just a number can give you hope that things will get better.

Finding Healing as an Individual at Driftwood Recovery

It can be difficult for someone who knows they need treatment. It’s easy to be shuffled around in life, so why is treatment different? It can cause feelings of despair as people wonder if there is even a point in trying. However, mental health care is different from what is the usual norm in society. It is widely understood among mental health care professionals that individualized care is necessary for recovery. This is especially true at Driftwood Recovery, where clients have access to a wide variety of treatment providers. By working together, they give each client the quality and comprehensive treatment they need to achieve success.

Clients learn quickly how important they are to their community, family, and themselves. It’s a place where the individual can be celebrated and encouraged to stand out and accept themselves. This is known as nurturing the spirit, which is the energy within that gives you the drive to succeed and grow. The nurturing of the spirit is an important part of holistic treatment, which is the treatment philosophy at Driftwood Recovery. This philosophy also includes the body and the mind, allowing for wholeness of treatment and healing.

Recovery cannot be achieved alone. When we get the courage to reach out and accept individualized care, we can achieve anything.

Every living person is a unique individual with specific needs for them to thrive and grow. The same is true for those who require mental health care, as no two diagnoses are exactly alike. This need can be challenging to meet, but not at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas. Here, clients can expect to be treated as the individual they are with compassion and respect. With a focus on encouragement and community, clients find the inner strength and quality treatment they need to succeed. If you or a loved one is struggling with their mental health, addiction, or chronic pain, know that help is ready. To learn more, call (512) 759-8330 today.

Every potential client is a person in need of guidance and support. According to BMC Psychology, “Trust and respect may be an important component of client-provider relationships.” The experts at Driftwood Recovery understand the importance of meeting people where they are today and connecting them with the resources they need to heal and recover from substance use disorder (SUD).

Driftwood Recovery Is Dedicated to Helping Every Potential Client

Clinicians and support staff collaborate and communicate honestly with potential clients and their families to determine if Driftwood Recovery is the best fit. In cases where a higher level of care is needed, clinicians provide references to trusted programs with the services to fit the individual’s needs and preferences.

Welcoming Clients and Referring When Necessary

Not everyone is a good fit for Driftwood Recovery. Individuals experiencing severe or complex symptoms may benefit from being referred to a different program where they have access to more comprehensive services and treatment options. The care team uses evidence-based methods to assess clients and determine what treatments might provide them with the best outcomes.

A few examples of behaviors, symptoms, and disorders requiring higher levels of care include:

• Active eating disorders (EDs) with significant co-occurring health issues
• Severe depressive episodes that interfere with a person’s ability to function
• Active psychotic episodes
• Aggressive, violent, and destructive behaviors
• Actively suicidal individuals

Driftwood Recovery emphasizes a curious and nonjudgmental approach to care. No client is refused assistance. Everyone is provided with access to the information and resources they need to take the next step in healing from substance use disorder.

How Does the Care Team Support Each Potential Client?

The care team collaborates with each other and clients to create tailored and consistent treatment plans. Driftwood Recovery helps clients and their families overcome barriers to sobriety by providing education about the realities of addiction and access to recovery resources. In some cases, potential clients must undergo additional assessments to ensure the clinical team has the necessary skills to offer the best support.

Potential clients with more complicated symptoms or underlying issues may undergo a 7 to 10-day assessment period to determine the following:

• The client’s primary health concern
• What treatments might provide the best results
• How Driftwood Recovery can help them achieve their goals

During the 7 to 10-day period, potential clients and their families have deep conversations with multiple members of the clinical team. Learning more about the potential client and their condition allows the care team to offer appropriate treatment options.

Getting to Know the Client Before Providing Treatment Guidance

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Referral to treatment provides those identified as needing more extensive treatment with access to specialty care.” The care team is dedicated to ensuring clients find the best programs and services to meet their specific circumstances, even if they choose not to proceed with Driftwood Recovery. Every interaction is an opportunity to help potential clients heal through treatment or referral.

Building a foundation of trust with potential clients and their families before initiating intake or referring to outside resources ensures the following:

• Potential clients have a better understanding of their treatment options
• Clinicians have a clear idea of the person’s current circumstances and needs
• The potential client and their family feel respected and valued by the care team

Driftwood Recovery prioritizes honesty, transparency, and integrity when discussing program benefits with potential clients. Staff members educate potential clients and their loved ones about addiction and recovery to ensure they make educated decisions about their treatment and health.

Why Comprehensive Assessments Are Essential for Each Potential Client

A thorough assessment is essential to ensure clients receive the most effective care during treatment. According to the National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare (NCSACW), “A SUD assessment provides a clinical diagnosis and recommendations for the intensity and setting of treatment needed (e.g., outpatient, intensive outpatient, residential) and supportive services.” Clients are carefully assessed and screened to ensure the care team fully understands their needs and provides appropriate services and support.

Benefits of Tailored Treatment Planning

Staff members collaborate to ensure every department and clinician is on the same page regarding how they approach treatment. Potential clients all have different symptoms, medical histories, family dynamics, and other factors impacting their ability to achieve and maintain sobriety. Driftwood Recovery offers tailored treatment plans to ensure clients and their loved ones have the opportunity to address these factors in treatment.

Some of the primary benefits of tailored treatment plans include:

• Reduced risk of miscommunication
• More comprehensive treatment goals
• Greater engagement from clients and their loved ones

Driftwood Recovery encourages clients to speak with the care team about their physical, emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs. Staff members consider clients’ personal preferences during the intake assessment and treatment. The comprehensive intake process ensures only clients who will benefit from treatment at Driftwood Recovery are admitted into programs.

Often, friends and family reach out on behalf of loved ones struggling with substance abuse. The clinical team does not assess client needs based solely on information provided by their loved ones. Instead, the dedicated care team does a deep dive into the potential client’s medical history, current health, preferences, recovery goals, and relationship dynamics. Driftwood Recovery uses comprehensive assessments and screening tools to ensure clients receive an accurate diagnosis and prognosis alongside tailored treatment planning. No one is admitted for treatment unless the care team is confident they can provide the best support. In instances where potential clients may benefit from other programs, the care team provides referrals to high-quality programs. To learn more, call us at (512) 759-8330.

There are many treatment programs all across the country. However, where you seek treatment is just as important to your recovery as the treatment itself. Austin, Texas, is one of the best places in the United States to find healing and support in maintaining recovery.

At Driftwood Recovery, we know finding the right program is vital to the building blocks for sustained recovery. Thus, our treatment program has been committed to integrating nature and contemporary comforts to provide a sanctuary where you can reflect and recover. Now that you have found healing in our expansive 85-acre estate, you can see the heart of Austin culture as a place for lasting recovery. Austin is not only an incredible space for treatment but also a unique community committed to seeing you thrive in every part of your life.

However, what makes Austin such a special place to put down roots for your lifelong healing? At Driftwood Recovery, we know courageous recovery is born out of healing the whole of your parts. Therefore, the environment in which you engage in maintaining recovery is vital.

The Importance of Your Environment for Maintaining Recovery

According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, the neighborhood environment in which you live can affect your development. The impact of environmental factors also extends to challenges with substance misuse. There are a variety of environmental risk factors that can contribute to difficulties with substance use disorder (SUD) and relapse. Listed below are some of the risky substance use environmental characteristics that can impede maintaining recovery:

• Easy access to substances
  • Lowers barriers to getting, using, and abusing substances
    • Disrupts treatment and maintaining recovery
• Neighborhood disadvantages
  • Certain environments create a cycle of disadvantage
    • Low income
    • Unemployment
    • Low educational attainment
    • Poor access to pro-social and environmental resources
      • Libraries
      • Recreation centers
      • Green spaces
      • Medical and social services
  • Disadvantaged neighborhoods increase factors for chronic stress
    • Increases self-medicating with substances
• Environmental barriers to treatment and maintaining recovery
  • Unreliable transportation
  • Lack of funds for public transportation
  • Great distance between home and treatment facility
• Other factors that contribute to risky substance use environments
  • Gender
  • Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
    • Poor parental supervision
  • Peer behavior and attitude
• Systemic factors can contribute to risky substance environments
  • Racism, restrictive land use, and development policies encourage community segregation and higher degrees of neighborhood disadvantage for minorities

Looking at some of the environmental risk factors for SUD highlights the importance of location for maintaining recovery.

Maintaining Recovery Through Community in Austin

One of the most important parts of the recovery process in treatment and beyond is community. Through community, you find the sense of belonging you need to maintain recovery. As noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), social connectedness can have a profound impact on your mind, body, and behaviors. With social connectedness, you can find your perceived and desired number, quality, and diversity of relationships for long-term well-being.

Social connectedness supports your psychological and physical well-being by fostering a sense of belonging. Within that sense of belonging found in connection with others, you develop mutual caring, value, and support for each other. Therefore, the value of connection and community for healing and maintaining recovery makes Austin a great place to find meaning in your life.

As noted by Austin’s Housing and Planning Department (HPD), Austin’s greatest asset is its people. The people of Austin are dedicated to providing opportunities for engagement with each other in every part of life.

Beauty of Austin: Nature as a Tool for Long-Term Recovery

Another important part of Austin’s culture and identity is its environment. Location plays an important role in what resources you have access to and the support needed for maintaining recovery. Nature can be a great facilitator of social contact. Access to green spaces connects you with others to foster a sense of community that supports maintaining recovery. Moreover, nature can support your physical and psychological wellness as a source of relaxation and reward. Outdoor recreation is a foundational part of Austinites’ lives that encourages connecting with nature to heal and find meaning in healthy, vigorous activities rather than substances.

According to Austin’s Parks and Recreation, some of the outdoor activities you can engage in to support maintaining recovery include:

• Hiking trails
• Parks
• Nature preserves
• Sanctuaries

The unique beauty of Austin and our city’s commitment to community highlight that there is something for everyone in Austin.

Finding Purpose: Opportunities for Maintaining Recovery in Austin

With support, you can find your purpose for maintaining recovery in Austin. Countless opportunities await you to build a meaningful and fulfilling life without substances. Whether you are an artist, athlete, professional, or looking to rediscover yourself with education, Austin is the place to be:

• Indie art scene
  • Canopy art studio
  • Women & Their Work
  • Black Pearl Books
  • Waterloo Records
  • Zilker Hillside Theatre
  • The Austin Film Festival
  • OUTsider Fest
• Athletic opportunities
  • Basketball
  • Flag football
  • Softball
  • Volleyball
• Young professional opportunities
  • Booming job market
    • Technology sector
    • Healthcare sector
    • Creative industries
• Education
  • Extensive community partnerships encourage innovation in higher education
    • Cultural arts
    • Medicine
    • Industry
    • Business
    • Technology
  • Schools and libraries act as centers for individual and community opportunities
    • Recreational
    • Social events
    • Collaboration
    • Learning

The diversity in hobbies, education, and work opportunities is a reflection of Austin’s pledge to build a community where everyone can thrive.

Empowering Lasting Recovery at Driftwood Recovery

Whether someone is just starting their life or is looking for a fresh start, Austin is a community that believes there is a place for everyone. At Driftwood Recovery, the heart of our work and Austin is in our people. Through our strength-based environment, we empower everyone who comes through our doors to integrate sustainable change in their lives for lasting recovery. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Austin, we are a place like no other; we know the value of connection. Through mutually supportive connections, you can be embraced by the community you deserve to build a fulfilling life in Austin.

Environmental risk factors like easy access to substances, economic disparity, and institutional racism can make maintaining recovery difficult. Austin is an incredible place to rediscover yourself and build a new life in recovery. At the heart of what makes Austin a place like no other is the people and their dedication to community. Whether you are looking for the healing power of nature or to build a meaningful career and life without substances, there is space for everyone. Here at Driftwood Recovery, the core of our work focuses on creating a strength-based environment where mutually supportive connection is made possible. To continue empowering yourself to lead a fulfilling life without substances, call us at (512) 759-8330.

Before healing can begin, clients must find appropriate treatment for any conditions that are harming them. It’s a process that can take some time, but it’s not something that clients have to go through alone. To aid in the recovery process, Driftwood Recovery emphasizes the importance of family relationships. With the support of their families, clients can find the appropriate treatment they need to fully recover. Care is taken to include families in all steps of treatment. This includes offering help for their struggles as well.

Despite how important families are for those seeking treatment, it can be tempting for some to try and go at treatment alone. Society places a heavy stigma on mental health disorders, especially addiction. These stigmas can instill feelings of shame or fear in those who need appropriate treatment. It’s common for some clients to not want to tell their families they need treatment at all for fear of how they will react. However, clients and their families can reach a state of mutual understanding and support. All it takes is a willingness to make healthy changes, time, and professional help.

Understanding the importance of both appropriate treatment and familial support is vital for those considering or undergoing treatment. But before we can understand how families can work with their loved ones to achieve recovery, we must first understand what appropriate treatment looks like.

What Does Appropriate Treatment Look Like?

To receive appropriate treatment, a client must have their needs met as a whole. This does not just include their mental health. They must also have their physical and spiritual needs met as well. This is known as holistic treatment, and it’s a major part of treatment at Driftwood Recovery. Appropriate treatment provides clients with quality and compassionate care administered by professionals in their field. Clients can expect to be treated with respect and without judgment or belittlement. Appropriate treatment also involves using effective treatments that are safe, reliable, and backed by research.

It can be scary for families who have a loved one in treatment. Many people are unaware of what goes on as part of appropriate treatment. That’s why treatment providers will walk families through each type of treatment to lessen fear. Of course, this is up to the client and their consent, but many clients find comfort in having an informed family. When families are educated about appropriate treatment, there is less stress and fear, allowing both sides to begin the recovery process in comfort.

Why Families Are Important for Appropriate Treatment

Families are not just blood relatives; they can be made up of anyone as long as they offer unconditional love and support. Support is an important part of treatment. People who have a support network are more likely to stick with treatment, recover, and then stay in recovery. Support is more effective if it comes from those who know and love you. Families, therefore, are vital to the recovery process. That’s why Driftwood Recovery emphasizes its importance and works closely with families to find the appropriate treatment for their loved ones.

Through the Courageous Family Program, clients work with their families to help strengthen connections and heal together. This program makes it possible for families to learn how to understand each other and create healthy connections. Family sessions are also encouraged as a way for clients and families to practice communication and other life skills. Clients aren’t the only ones who may need some type of help, and families can find that help at Driftwood Recovery. Treatment providers work closely with clients and their loved ones to provide quality and professional treatment.

Families are important because they encourage their loved ones to do what is right for their health and safety. A united family can convince a loved one to seek the treatment they need. Sometimes, this is done by having an intervention in which families come together to express concerns for a loved one. It’s easy for someone to ignore their problems if they are alone. With a family, it’s hard for serious problems to be ignored. By having support, a client is more likely to seek treatment, which can be a life-saving decision.

Bridging the Gap Between Clients and Their Families

Anyone can find appropriate treatment if they are willing to accept help. Part of the treatment process is strengthening the relationships between each other to create healthier and happier families. Sometimes, people can experience hurt on the journey to recovery, especially when a family has to see a loved one struggle. For clients, there can be feelings of guilt for worrying or causing concern to their loved ones. It’s possible to work through this hurt and establish equal footing between clients and their families. It takes the willingness to bridge the gap and the help of a professional to nurture understanding and encourage healing.

Regardless of whether it is a mental health disorder, addiction, or chronic pain disorder, anyone can find healing if they are willing to reach out for appropriate treatment. Families give their loved ones hope that there will always be goodness in the world. Even when we struggle through pain and strife, we can count on those who love us to support us when we need help. By leaning on our families, we find unconditional love and support that can help us achieve anything.

Families, either self-made or biologically related, are important for our health as individuals. Without the support of our families, it becomes difficult to recover from mental health disorders and cope with chronic pain. Working with families instead of against them is the only way to ensure that an individual gets the treatment they need and deserve. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, we understand the importance of families to our clients. With a focus on helping clients form meaningful and long-lasting healthy relationships, they can not only strengthen old bonds but also form new ones. To learn more about how Driftwood Recovery can help you and your loved ones, call (512) 759-8330 today.

Everyone deserves to have their personal information kept private and confidential. Only authorized individuals should have access to sensitive client information. Staff members are legally and morally obligated to keep private records safe and secure. Rehabilitation programs must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). According to HHS, the HIPAA Privacy Rule creates “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.” The dedicated professionals at Driftwood Recovery follow HIPAA guidelines to protect each client’s privacy.

How Does a Client’s Privacy Impact Recovery?

Clients expect their medical and personal information to remain secure. Conversations and records shared with staff members, peers, and outside consultants are considered confidential. Most people expect a strict level of privacy. Studies have shown that “[a]ny program that specializes, in whole or in part, in providing treatment, counseling, and/or assessment and referral services for clients with substance abuse disorders must comply with the Federal confidentiality regulations.”

Client privacy impacts the relationship between staff members and individuals in recovery by doing the following:

• Increasing trust
• Improving communication
• Reducing stigmas and internalized stigmas

Clinicians are trained to keep client information secure and private at all times unless the client authorizes their care team to share information with others. For example, if a client would benefit from meeting with a medical professional outside the treatment program, the client may provide the care team with permission to share information about their health with the outside party.

Keeping Client Details Confidential From Loved Ones and Coworkers

Healthcare workers are familiar with keeping client details confidential on and off the clock. Individuals in treatment rely on their care team to treat them with respect and dignity even when they are not in the room. Driftwood Recovery expects clinicians and support staff to avoid sharing private client information, even among coworkers who are not authorized to know the client’s information and loved ones.

People in treatment heal more quickly and often feel less stress if they trust their care team to never disclose private information in public spaces or with unauthorized individuals. Staff members might be tempted to tell loved ones in confidence if they work with a celebrity or encounter an unusual situation. However, Driftwood Recovery does not condone sharing any private client information. The only times clinicians can legally share client medical information without their consent include during medical emergencies, instances of child abuse, and if the client is a danger to themselves or others.

Why Is It Important to Protect Every Client’s Privacy?

Many people diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD) have experienced some form of interpersonal trauma. Clients may struggle with trust issues and have difficulty relying on the integrity of their care team. Celebrities and individuals who have public lives may feel even more uncertain about trusting their most vulnerable thoughts and feelings with people they have not met before.

According to Addiction Science and Clinical Practice, “[I]n a recent national survey, adults have expressed some concerns about the potential for shared health information . . . 42% of participants indicated that they would feel uncomfortable if their private health information was shared with other organizations, even if any identifying information was excluded.” Building client trust is essential. Driftwood Recovery helps individuals overcome insecurities and distrust by building a solid foundation of honest communication and understanding between clients and clinicians.

Every Client Deserves to Be Treated With Respect and Dignity

Clients deserve to be treated with dignity and given the necessary tools to direct their recovery. Some people feel more confident about their privacy and ability to manage their condition if they play a more active role in treatment planning. Staff approach the collaboration process with curiosity and nonjudgmental support. Clients are treated with respect and provided information to ensure they make educated decisions about their health and treatment. Every person participating in treatment deserves the dignity of choosing who has access to their private medical information.

How Does Driftwood Recovery Protect Each Client’s Privacy?

Every morning, the staff meets to review treatment topics, facility policies, and other important subjects. Client privacy is essential to the success of each department. During daily meetings, the care team supports and uplifts one another, ensuring everyone remains on the same page and ready to face the day together. Teamwork and consistency in client care increase data security. Daily meetings are also a reminder to remain professional and HIPPA-compliant.

Recognizing When to Deviate From Normal Therapeutic Routines

Some clients require flexibility to make progress in their treatment. Clients rely on their care team to use the information they provide to create a more effective treatment plan. Knowing when to make appropriate deviations from typical treatment curriculum and program schedules allows clients and staff to form a deeper level of trust.

Clients must provide private information about their health and emotional well-being. However, many people avoid the treatment they need out of fear due to having their trust broken by others in the past. Staff at Driftwood Recovery understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality and protecting client privacy. Clients from all walks of life participate in treatment programs at Driftwood Recovery. People in treatment deserve to feel respected, heard, and safe to share their concerns. Every staff member practices values of honesty, integrity, and transparency. Client information is kept secure and private unless the care team receives permission to share it. To learn more about our programs and services, call us at (512) 759-8330.