Transforming Therapeutic Approaches Using Trauma-Informed Care

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

Trauma-Informed Care Protects Clinicians From Experiencing Secondary Trauma

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

TIC protects staff from secondary trauma by doing the following:

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

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

Building Trust By Respecting Client Boundaries

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

Healthcare workers build trust with clients by doing the following:

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

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

Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care in Treatment for Substance Abuse

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

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

The Relationship Between Trauma and Substance Abuse

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

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

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

How Does Driftwood Recovery Incorporate Trauma-Informed Care?

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

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

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

How Does Being in Healthcare Impact Work and Mental Health?

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

Being in healthcare affects mental health by doing the following:

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

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

Emotional Burnout in Healthcare

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

Resources for Maintaining Work and Mental Health

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

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

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

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

How Does Driftwood Recovery Prioritize Balancing Work and Mental Health?

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

Maintaining Positive Mental Health Helps Clients and Clinicians

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

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

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

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

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

The Impact of Substance Use on Employment

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

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

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

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

Understanding Mental Health and Employment Challenges

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

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

The Benefits of Employment in Recovery

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

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

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

Addressing Barriers to Employment in Recovery

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

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

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

Alumni Connections: Supporting Employment in Recovery at Driftwood Recovery

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

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

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

The most common causes of traumatic brain injury are:

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

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

How Does Addiction Affect Those With a Traumatic Brain Injury?

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

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

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

Seeking Help at Driftwood Recovery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Expect During Alumni Weekly Meetings

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

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

Understanding the Difference Between Group Therapy and Support Groups

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

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

The Benefits of Continuing Weekly Meetings in Recovery

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Importance of Nutrition for Health

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

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

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

How Driftwood Recovery Emphasizes the Importance of Nutrition

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

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

Integrating Healthy Nutritional Choices Into Daily Life

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

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

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

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

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

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.