Understanding and Treating Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is more prevalent than one might think. It’s considered one of the top 10 leading causes of disability worldwide and affects both teens and adults. Despite how common this disorder is, the condition itself is misunderstood and rarely spoken about in society. This causes those living with bipolar disorder to feel isolated and alone. Without treatment, this mental health condition can worsen and become life-threatening. 

That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, we provide compassionate and comprehensive treatment for those living with bipolar disorder. Although this condition cannot be cured, it can be treated. Those in recovery can live normal lives with the right treatment and continued support. To understand how bipolar disorder is treated at Driftwood Recovery, we must first understand what bipolar disorder is. 

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by periods of high (mania, hypomania) and low (depression) mood episodes. These episodes can result in intense shifts in mood, energy levels, thinking patterns, and behaviors. Manic episodes can result in risk-taking and erratic behavior. Hypomania is not as severe as mania, but it can still interfere with a person’s ability to participate in normal life.

There are three main types of bipolar disorder, including:

• Bipolar I disorder: Involves at least one episode of mania that can be extreme and dangerous. Major depression may be experienced, but it is not required for a diagnosis. This type of bipolar disorder is considered the most severe and can result in hospitalization. 
• Bipolar II disorder: Though similar to bipolar I, this type always has depressive episodes with occasional hypomania. Bipolar II is not less severe than bipolar I, as it is a separate diagnosis. Sometimes, bipolar II can develop into bipolar I.
• Cyclothymic disorder: Known as cyclothymia, this type of bipolar disorder has less severe highs and lows compared to bipolar I and II, with shorter episodes of hypomanic and depressive symptoms. Cyclothymia can develop into bipolar I or II.

Scientists aren’t sure what causes bipolar disorder, but it’s believed that genetics, brain structure, environment, and lifestyle factors can play a role in its development. 

Myths and Facts About Bipolar Disorder

There are a few myths surrounding bipolar disorder that act as a barrier to treatment. Knowing the truth behind these myths is essential not just for encouraging an individual to seek treatment but also for improving public health and awareness.

Myth #1: People With Bipolar Disorder Are Dangerous and Violent

The truth is that people with bipolar disorder are no more violent than an average person. They may say hurtful things in the heat of anger, but physical violence is not caused by bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder are more likely to harm themselves through risk-taking behavior and suicide than they are to harm another person.

Myth #2: Having Bipolar Disorder Is Good Cause Mania Increases Productivity

During a manic or hypomanic episode, a person may feel more confident or feel little need for sleep. However, these episodes can also cause irritability and difficulty focusing. People in a manic or hypomanic episode may also take unusual risks, which can have negative consequences on their school, work, or social life. 

Myth #3: Bipolar Disorder Looks the Same and Is Easy to Diagnose

Though bipolar disorder is marked by unusual shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels, how these symptoms present themselves in individuals varies. Some people may rapidly shift between episodes or experience mixed affective states, which can make a diagnosis tricky. 

Myth #4: Living With This Disorder Is Impossible

Plenty of people live normal and successful lives while having bipolar disorder. Though the condition cannot be cured, therapy, medication, and coping skills training allow for continuous recovery. 

Seeking Treatment at Driftwood Recovery

Treatment for bipolar disorder at Driftwood Recovery varies, but all contain a mix of medication and therapeutic techniques. Psychotherapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) help teach emotional regulation and recognize harmful patterns. Medications, such as mood stabilizers, help to mitigate severe symptoms associated with bipolar disorder. Medication management helps clients stay safe while taking medications and get into the habit of managing their health needs. Other therapies, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), can also be useful in treatment depending on the individual’s needs. 

Clients are also given training on how to manage their condition. Teaching clients self-care and mindfulness techniques ensure that they stay healthy during and after treatment. Relapse prevention training is also essential in helping clients stay in recovery long after treatment has concluded. These workshops are essential in teaching clients how to manage their disorder without turning or returning to substance use.

Driftwood Recovery, at its core, is a holistic treatment facility. This means that not just the mind is treated, but the body and spirit as well. Clients can expect to use therapeutic techniques such as art therapy, therapeutic recreation, and yoga. Nutritional science is also important, as clients learn how to change their diet to minimize symptoms and improve overall health. Finally, clients are taught that they are not their disorder. Although they have bipolar disorder, it does not define who they are as a person. Building up self-esteem, inspiring courage, and finding understanding are all important for continuous recovery. 

Finally, no client is ever alone at Driftwood Recovery. With a robust peer support and alumni program, clients will always have contact with those who understand what they have gone through and the conditions they live with. Preventing isolation and loneliness ensures that no matter where you go, you will always find help at Driftwood Recovery. 

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite how common this condition is, those who struggle with it often feel isolated and alone. At Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, our clients are never alone. With a focus on providing judgment-free, compassionate, and comprehensive treatment, anyone can recover from bipolar disorder and live a normal, successful life. Our holistic treatment philosophy ensures that it’s not just your mind that recovers but your body and spirit as well. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, don’t wait to get help. Reach out to Driftwood Recovery today by calling (512) 759-8330. 

For those in recovery, sober hobbies are a wonderful way to enrich the mind and connect with others. Part of addiction treatment is finding ways to pass the time in a way that reduces stress and encourages you to stay sober. Sober hobbies fit this role nicely, giving alumni and those still in treatment a healthy outlet for their feelings and emotions.

At Driftwood Recovery, we, too, recognize the importance of sober hobbies. As a result, we work with our clients to help them discover their inner strengths and interests. These factors, along with therapies like art therapy and therapeutic recreation, can help clients choose the right hobbies. However, before we dive into some commonly chosen sober hobbies, we must first understand why hobbies are so important for mental health. 

The Importance of Sober Hobbies

Hobbies allow individuals to express themselves productively and healthily. Studies show that they improve mental and physical health. For those in recovery, sober hobbies can play a bigger role than just being enjoyable. Sober hobbies force alumni to choose what is more important to them. Do they want to be alone and abuse substances, or do they want to enjoy themselves safely with their friends? 

Often, alumni will decide that their money is better spent on gear to further enjoy their hobby than it is on substances. Sober hobbies also take up the time that could be spent in places with common addiction triggers. After all, alumni don’t have time to go to a bar when they have a white water rafting trip scheduled! 

Sober hobbies also provide opportunities for companionship and accountability. Many hobbies are unsafe to engage in while under the influence, and your sober support network will be sure to call you out on it if you try. This safety network and oversight help alumni remain in recovery and resist common triggers that can result in a relapse. 

The sober hobbies available are too numerous to mention, but here are some examples of hobbies typically enjoyed by people in recovery.

#1. Outdoor Sober Hobbies

Going outside is a wonderful way to promote continued recovery. It’s well known that nature has a profound healing effect on the mind and body, so choosing an outdoor activity can assist in physical, spiritual, and mental health. Simply walking through established trails requires little more than proper clothing for the weather and comfortable shoes. 

Those with more time and money can dedicate themselves to other outdoor sober hobbies, such as rock climbing, camping, fishing, and kayaking. Just remember to use proper safety equipment and utilize professional assistance when engaging in strenuous and risky activities.

Gardening is also one of the top sober hobbies for those in recovery. Though gardening takes skill, some beginner-friendly techniques and plants make trying out the hobby easy. It’s easy to start by growing kitchen herbs and progress from there. You don’t need a full garden to gain the peaceful and satisfying benefits of gardening. 

#2. Animal Companions for Sobriety

Animals are known to be good for mental health. Studies have identified that pets reduce stress reactions and anxiety. They also improve mood and social interactions for people who are typically isolated. Animals are incapable of judging people, and many animals provide unconditional love. Some people in recovery choose to get some pets because it helps them remain responsible. Animal-based sober hobbies include horseback riding, dog sports, animal husbandry, and teaching your animal companion tricks. 

#3. Creative Sober Hobbies

Those in treatment may be well aware of what sober hobbies they can pursue that utilize creativity. Art therapy, after all, is a common therapeutic tool in mental health care and treatment facilities. Driftwood Recovery especially utilizes the power of creativity to help clients express themselves and work through difficult emotions. All the creative arts are considered wonderful sober hobbies because they keep you busy and have a tangible result that gives you satisfaction. Examples of creative sober hobbies include painting, sculpting, knitting, writing, reading, dancing, singing, and playing an instrument.

#4. Self-Education as a Hobby

Exercising the mind is a valid hobby that helps many alumni stay busy in recovery. One of the best ways to do so is to pick a topic or type of study and educate yourself. This can be anything from learning a new language, taking a cooking class, or deciding that you want to learn about a topic you enjoy. Libraries, museums, guided tours, and public lectures are all available to those who want to learn something new. All it takes is self-motivation, and if you have the motivation to learn something new, you have the motivation to stay sober. 

#5. Social Sober Hobbies

Some sober hobbies are more social than others. Those who are more introverted will enjoy sober hobbies that take them away from crowds. For others, being around other people is important for their mental health. Social sober hobbies can be anything from joining a book club to volunteering at a charity. 

Others may enjoy social games such as board games or tabletop role-playing games. With so many clubs available online, it’s easy to find one that interests you and encourages you to remain sober. Remember that facilities like Driftwood Recovery will have alumni programs that arrange sober meetups. Programs like these are perhaps the best way to try social sober hobbies and see which ones you like the best.

This is by no means a full list of sober hobbies available. The hobby right for you depends on your physical abilities, energy levels, and time. Driftwood Recovery works to help clients discover the hobbies that give them joy and, thus, continued fulfillment during their recovery journey. Just be open to trying new things during your recovery journey and you’ll always have opportunities available to you.

Sober hobbies are a perfect way to stay active and express yourself during and after treatment. Knowing which hobby is right for you takes time, but there is something for everyone. These hobbies don’t just help clients stay in recovery; they also help build self-esteem and courage. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients are encouraged to explore their interests and discover what brings them joy. Then, we work with our clients to help them achieve their goals and pursue their interests. With available therapies such as art therapy and outdoor therapeutic recreation, it’s easy to ignite a continuous spark of joy. To learn more, call Driftwood Recovery today at (512) 759-8330.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 59.3 million (23.1%) adults in the U.S. experience any mental illness (AMI) or a serious mental illness (SMI). In addition to experiencing one or more mental health disorders, many people face challenges with co-occurring substance use. As noted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 21.5 million adults in the U.S. have co-occurring mental health disorders and substance use disorder (SUD). Access to mental health relapse prevention is vital to avoiding a mental health relapse. Whether you experience mental health challenges alone or co-occurring SUD, addressing mental health is an important part of maintaining recovery.

At Driftwood Recovery, we know how important connection and community integration are in transitioning into recovery. Making the shift from a structured treatment program to continuing care in recovery can feel daunting. Continuing to heal from dual diagnosis or co-occurring mental health and SUD challenges can further complicate healing. Life is naturally filled with stressors that can impair well-being and increase the risk of relapse. You deserve access to a continuing care network where you can find support and accountability to thrive. 

As a result, we are committed to providing an engaging alumni program with services and resources for mental health relapse prevention. Yet, you may question what is mental health relapse prevention. If you have experienced challenges with SUD, you are likely aware of the prevalence of addiction relapse. However, you may be less familiar with the concept of mental health relapse and mental health relapse prevention. By expanding your awareness of mental health relapse, you can understand the value of mental health relapse prevention in your recovery. 

What Is a Mental Health Relapse?

In general, a mental health relapse occurs when mental health disorder symptoms return after a period of improvement or remission. Moreover, a mental health relapse can also include the worsening of mental health symptoms following recovery. Due to misconceptions about mental health, it can be difficult to recognize the significance of a relapse or the need for treatment. As SAMHSA notes, mental health includes your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Thus, mental health plays an important role in how you think, feel, and behave.

According to “The Lifetime Prevalence and Factors Associated with Relapse Among Mentally Ill Patients at Jimma University Medical Center, Ethiopia” by Liyew Agenagnew and Chalachew Kassaw, mental health relapse is common in all types of mental health disorders. For example, there is a 52–92% relapse rate for individuals with schizophrenia and 65-73% for those with bipolar disorder. Therefore, it is invaluable to mental health relapse prevention to understand the risk factors for mental health relapse.

Risk Factors for Mental Health Relapse

There are a variety of risk factors that can contribute to a mental health relapse. Risk factors can impede recovery, whether external, internal, or related to behavioral changes. Listed below are some of the risk factors for mental health relapse:

• Stressful life events
• Changes in sleep habits
• Conflict with others
• Poor social support
• Unemployment
• Low income
• Loneliness and isolation
• Stigma
• Co-occurring conditions
• Poor medication adherence
• Lack of community mental health services

Looking at the risk factors for mental health relapse highlights the need for mental health relapse prevention.

Value of Mental Health Relapse Prevention

Reducing or recovering from mental health symptoms is something to take pride in on your recovery journey. However, lasting recovery does not start and end with treatment. Countless factors, including life stressors, can contribute to impeding your mental well-being. As a result, mental health relapse prevention can give you the tools to manage your symptoms in your daily life. With mental health relapse prevention, you can build resilience to life stressors to lead a healthy life in recovery:

• Self-awareness
• Self-monitoring
• Self-care
• Self-determination
• Life satisfaction
• Set and achieve goals

Despite the benefits of mental health relapse prevention, various barriers work to impede sustained recovery.

Dismantling Barriers to Mental Health Relapse Prevention

Barriers to mental health relapse prevention often overlap with risk factors for relapse. For example, many barriers to mental health support are tied to the cost of services, stigma, and poor social support. However, as the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment notes, a better understanding of perceived barriers can help create accessible and integrated services to meet the needs of each individual. The barriers to support can feel daunting, but with continuing care, barriers can be dismantled to support maintaining recovery. Beyond medication management and therapy, support tools can include:

• Nutrition
• Physical activity
• Peer support

Yet, how do you take steps toward better mental health care post-treatment? Through trusted continuing care support in an alumni program, you can build a mental health relapse prevention plan to support you throughout recovery.

Building a Mental Health Relapse Prevention Plan

Creating a mental health relapse prevention plan is an important step toward recognizing your symptoms. When you can recognize your symptoms, you can use tools to manage your symptoms and feel better in your daily life. Your mental health relapse prevention plan should include:

• Monitor mood
• Quality sleep
• Exercise
• Hobbies
• Gratitude
• Reframe thoughts
• Stay connected
• Adaptive coping strategies
• Medication maintenance
• Help-seeking behaviors

With an active alumni program, you can access services and resources to help you build and maintain your relapse prevention plan. Moreover, you can find connections and community among alumni who remind you that you are not alone in your recovery.

Power of Connection for Mental Health at Driftwood Recovery

At Driftwood Recovery, we know a strong alumni program gives you a foundation of connection and community for long-term wellness. Through a peer-driven approach to continuing care, you foster self-efficacy to manage the setbacks and challenges that arise in recovery. We are dedicated to providing a continuing care program built on compassion, support, service, and accountability. Lasting healing does not happen alone, and with a supportive, sober community, you can build a courageous life in recovery.

Addiction relapse is not the only form of relapse that can impede your well-being. Mental health relapse can disrupt your recovery whether you have co-occurring SUD or not. Following treatment, there are various risk factors and barriers that can lead to a mental health relapse, like stigma, financial stressors, and poor social support. Therefore, building a mental health relapse prevention plan is invaluable to symptom management and sustained recovery. With access to an active alumni program in continuing care, you can connect to a sober community and resources to support relapse prevention. At Driftwood Recovery, we are dedicated to providing a peer-driven approach to recovery post-treatment. Call (512) 759-8330 to learn how alumni can support you.

Group therapy is a commonly used psychotherapy in most mental health care and addiction treatment facilities, especially Driftwood Recovery. It’s effective, safe, and offers an environment of support for those recovering from a wide range of mental health conditions. Despite its effectiveness, not many people know exactly what group therapy entails. Those who do know somewhat about group therapy tend to confuse it with a support group, which is quite different. 

Understanding these differences and what to expect in group therapy helps de-stigmatize mental health care and prepares potential clients for therapies they may participate in. Education doesn’t just prepare a person for treatment; it also prepares them for healing.

Group Therapy vs. Support Groups

On the outside, group therapy and support groups look very similar. Both involve a group of people talking about and sharing their thoughts and experiences. Both can be very helpful in the recovery process. However, there are differences that people should be aware of.

Group therapy is:

• Lead by a mental health care professional, such as a therapist
• Has strict guidelines for establishing and maintaining safety
• Works to heal specific issues and is usually tailored for specific audiences
• Helps clients make changes to their behavior and thinking patterns that improve their lives

Support groups are:

• Lead by volunteers who may or may not have mental health training 
• May have difficulties establishing safety guidelines due to more open and loose organization 
• Has a more generalized and broad approach to support 
• Works to help individuals cope with things they cannot change 

In a nutshell, group therapy is best for clients who are working to overcome a specific issue that they can recover from, such as addiction. This therapy gives them the safety to fully open up and receive legitimate mental health treatment to make positive and lasting changes to their lives. Support groups are great for clients who want generalized support for a difficulty in their life that can’t be changed, such as living with cancer. These groups, however, do provide fantastic support and understanding. Support groups focus more on coping and living well, not clinical mental health care. 

What Is It Like to Participate in Group Therapy?

A licensed mental health care professional always leads group therapy. Think of them like a conductor who helps the group stay on task, mitigate problems, and keep order. The job of this professional is also to ensure that each individual gets the treatment they need to meet their recovery goals. So, if you are worried that group therapy is a “watered-down” treatment, don’t be. Each client will always get the attention they need, such as making sure they feel safe and ensuring they can speak when they want to. 

Group therapy is fairly straightforward. The therapist introduces the topic or content of that day’s discussion and invites clients to participate in an orderly manner. Clients then share their thoughts and experiences on the topic. This process yields a tremendous amount of life experiences and wisdom, which can be used to help other clients in the group heal. 

It’s common for new group members not to want to share at first, and that’s okay. Clients are never forced to share if they don’t feel ready, but they are expected to respect other clients when they speak. The therapist provides direction and continues sharing until the time is up or a stopping point is reached. Clients are encouraged to reflect on what they have heard and shared during group therapy and rest. 

Healing the Soul

There are many reasons why group therapy is so prevalent, especially in holistic treatment plans. Yes, it provides clinical therapy for mental health disorders. But it also provides healing beyond the mind. Group therapy shows clients who may have felt completely alone in their struggles that they are not alone. It teaches them that they deserve compassion, respect, and understanding from others. Group therapy also provides a means of accountability, which encourages clients to work hard at achieving their goals and making healthy choices. It’s not uncommon for timid clients to finish group therapy feeling more confident and strong than when they started. 

Group therapy encourages clients to be more compassionate and nonjudgmental in their beliefs and viewpoints. After all, a small group could have well over a hundred years of combined life experiences. Young or old, these experiences are valuable, showing clients that meaningful change is always possible. Group therapy is wonderful for teaching clients skills such as navigating peer pressure or preventing a relapse. But its biggest value lies in establishing human connections with others, which is necessary for a healthy spirit. 

Group Therapy at Driftwood Recovery

The staff at Driftwood Recovery believes that clients should have access to the best in comprehensive and quality mental health care and addiction treatment. This includes group therapy, which is important to our goal of forging healthier human connections and establishing a robust support network for our clients. We understand that group therapy can be difficult to undergo, as it requires clients to make themselves vulnerable to others. To assist client comfort, we provide plenty of opportunities for therapeutic recreation, rest, and reflection on our beautiful private campus. 

We are committed to providing a safe, private, and secure environment for healing. This includes group therapy. Clients can expect to be treated with respect and compassion with a strict code of conduct that has no place for judgment or belittlement. With such safeguards in place, there’s little reason not to try this effective and efficient therapy for healing. 

Group therapy is an effective and safe form of therapy that helps clients connect with their fellow peers. These connections help clients learn from the mistakes of others, find genuine understanding, and have a way to be held accountable for their actions. Through this, clients find an avenue of healing, peace, and recovery. At Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, we utilize group therapy as an important part of addiction and mental health treatment. With a focus on peer support and mutual encouragement, our clients find a safe and secure environment for change. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or mental health disorders, don’t wait. Call Driftwood Recovery today at (512) 759-8330. 

Getting a psychiatric evaluation is an important step in receiving the treatment you need for a mental health condition. Psychiatric evaluations can be more than that; they can open up an avenue for relief and understanding for a person who is struggling. However, the positives of this diagnostic tool are often overshadowed by the stigma and misunderstanding of mental health disorders and conditions. For many people, being told that they might benefit from a psychiatric evaluation is akin to being told that they are going to be locked up and have the key thrown away.

The truth is a psychiatric evaluation, much like mental health treatment in general, is quite different than how it is portrayed in popular media. The goal of mental health care is to provide care while respecting the individual who needs it. It’s especially important in mental health care and treatment facilities like Driftwood Recovery, which focus on inspiring healing and self-confidence in their clients. To receive this level of care, everyone begins with a psychiatric evaluation. As you understand exactly what that entails, you may find yourself less afraid and more interested in what this tool could offer you or a loved one. 

Why You Might Need a Psychiatric Evaluation

A psychiatric evaluation is an essential diagnostic tool. Psychiatrists also use psychiatric evaluations to determine if your symptoms stem from physical or psychological causes. Sometimes, a mental health condition can be caused by both. Psychiatrists use the data gathered from a psychiatric evaluation and any additional ordered tests to diagnose and treat any mental health disorders.

If you are already struggling with a diagnosed mental health condition, mental health care facilities will conduct a psychiatric evaluation to determine your current status and make an accurate treatment plan. For those not currently in treatment, a psychiatric evaluation can solve the mystery of why you may suddenly be feeling bad or down. If you struggle with symptoms that persist for over two weeks, it may be time to schedule a psychiatric evaluation. These symptoms can include:

• Lack of sleep or oversleeping
• Persistent feelings of doom, despair, and fear
• A desire to self-harm or thoughts of suicide and death
• Being unable to find the energy to care for essential needs, such as hygiene and eating
• Outbursts of uncontrollable emotions that impact your daily life, such as anger, frustration, and sadness

Experiencing any of these symptoms denotes the need to speak to a psychiatrist immediately or a psychiatric evaluation.

Tips to Prepare Before an Evaluation

A psychiatric evaluation involves answering a lot of questions. Though a psychiatrist won’t rush you, people tend to feel less nervous if they have their thoughts together beforehand. The more information you have before you go into a psychiatric evaluation, the more accurate a diagnosis you will get.

Some tips that will help you prepare are:

• Have your family history ready, as some mental health disorders can be hereditary
• Write down any thoughts and symptoms you are experiencing regarding your mental and physical health
• Have your medical history prepared. Include the medications you take as well as any tests or medical procedures you’ve already had
• Write down questions you’d like to ask the psychiatrist before and after the psychiatric evaluation

What Happens During a Psychiatric Evaluation?

During a psychiatric evaluation, the psychiatrist performs what is known as a clinical interview. This involves asking you questions and recording your answers. Depending on the answers, the psychiatrist may order additional tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions. During the psychiatric evaluation, the psychiatrist will do their best to ensure that you feel safe and comfortable. It’s normal to feel nervous at first, but remember that the psychiatrist is here to help you.

The psychiatrist will ask you questions about your feelings, family history, and any symptoms you are experiencing. Examples include:

• “What was your childhood like?”
• “Do you have difficulty falling or staying asleep?”
• “Has anyone in your family committed suicide?” 

Though some questions can be upsetting, It’s important to be honest during the psychiatric evaluation so the psychiatrist can accurately determine a diagnosis. However, you still have rights during the process, and you are allowed to take the time to gather your thoughts. You will not be judged or belittled during the psychiatric evaluation. The job of the psychiatrist is to evaluate your mental state to see if it matches any known mental health disorders so you can get the treatment you need.

What Happens Next?

After the psychiatric evaluation is completed, the psychiatrist will be able to give you a diagnosis. At Driftwood Recovery, a treatment plan will be created once other assessments are completed. You will continue to work with a psychiatrist during treatment, especially if you require additional medical care or prescription medications. If you feel as though your diagnosis is not accurate, you have the right to seek a second opinion. Once your diagnosis is confirmed, now it’s working with your treatment providers to create a care plan.

Depending on where you receive treatment, your treatment plan may vary. Driftwood Recovery is a holistic-focused treatment facility, so a treatment-plan post psychiatric evaluation will include treatments such as nutritional therapy, therapeutic recreation, and evidence-based psychotherapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). The psychiatrist, along with a time of expert providers, will work with you to create a treatment plan that fulfills your needs and achieves your recovery goals. 

Driftwood Recovery, as a facility, works to make sure all treatments and evaluations are safe, accurate, and effective. That includes psychiatric evaluations and other diagnostic tools. At Driftwood Recovery, you can count on your information being safe and private. It takes one step to start a journey, and in no time at all, you will find that recovery is not as scary as you’d think. 

When providing mental health care, it is important to get an accurate picture of an individual’s mental state. To do so, mental health professionals use what is called a psychiatric evaluation. This allows professionals to give clients a full comprehensive evaluation so they can receive the customized care they need to recover. It may sound scary, but it’s a straightforward procedure that helps countless people get the care they need. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, we use psychiatric evaluations along with other tools to provide the care you need to succeed. To learn more about the process of client evaluation and enrolling, don’t wait. Driftwood Recovery can help. Call (512) 759-8330 today.

Healthy boundaries are essential to having a good relationship with your loved ones and peers. Usually, people learn about setting boundaries as young children. However, there are times when a child is taught that their boundaries don’t matter through interactions with toxic peers or guardians. It’s especially true for people who are survivors of childhood abuse or neglect and find themselves unable to say “no” or set firm boundaries. 

Of course, childhood abuse and neglect is an underlying cause of several mental health conditions, such as addiction. The risk of a relapse increases when a person is exposed to triggering situations that exasperate their mental health conditions. Sometimes, these triggers can result from proximity to toxic or unaware loved ones and peers who may inadvertently or deliberately behave in ways that can trigger a relapse. Knowing how to navigate these relationships and setting healthy boundaries is key to protecting an individual’s recovery and preventing relapse.

That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, clients are taught how to understand, recognize, and establish healthy boundaries with their loved ones. Not all relationships are toxic, but the general misinformation about mental health disorders in society can often lead to inadvertent harmful behaviors. It’s important for everyone, not just those in treatment and recovery, to understand the value of healthy boundaries. 

What Are Healthy Boundaries?

Healthy boundaries are defined as a set of personal rules or protocols that protect your health and establish healthy interactions with loved ones and peers. As a person grows and develops, their boundaries will evolve, too. Boundaries can be deeply personal or specific, but they all serve a role in helping the individual set rules that respect their personhood. There are universal healthy boundaries that children learn through interactions with their peers. Examples include:

• Asking permission before touching another person or their belongings 
• Talking through problems when upset instead of defaulting to hitting or other forms of physical violence 
• Respecting a person’s desire for time alone or privacy 

As a person enter adulthood, they find themselves having to create custom boundaries to suit their personal needs. It’s especially important for those in recovery who must be vigilant about triggers that may increase the chances of a relapse. To do so, establishing healthy boundaries with loved ones is important. Examples of such healthy boundaries include:

• Forbidding loved ones and peers from bringing addictive substances into your home
• Asking loved ones and peers not to bring you or invite you to establishments where substance use is normalized, such as bars 
• Establishing that no means no and not continue to pressure you after declining to engage in substance use

It is always okay to set boundaries. Anyone who tells you it’s wrong to set boundaries usually has an ulterior motive that isn’t good for you. Everyone is entitled to privacy, body autonomy, and basic respect. Healthy boundaries allow you to not just protect yourself but also forge healthier bonds with your loved ones. 

Establishing Healthy Relationships for a Strong Recovery

Driftwood Recovery is a facility that strongly believes in the importance of loved ones in a client’s recovery journey. Care is taken to help families and clients work through their troubles and establish a deeper understanding. Programs like the Courageous Family Program and therapies such as family therapy work to strengthen bonds and clear up misunderstandings. Having an established and extensive support network is one way a client can prevent relapse and stay sober. 

However, healthy boundaries are still important, even with an established support network. Sometimes, it takes searching deep within you to discover why you may be reluctant to set or recognize healthy boundaries. To assist in this, clients at Driftwood Recovery participate in psychotherapies designed to work through an individual’s thought process. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) especially can help clients recognize and change unhealthy thoughts and behavioral patterns. This and recognizing the need for healthy and supportive relationships is the first step to setting boundaries of your own.

How Do I Learn to Set Healthy Boundaries?

Once a client recognizes the need to have healthy boundaries, they now must work on setting and sticking with them. This is easier said than done, especially if the individual lacks confidence or is exposed to toxic relationships. To build confidence, Driftwood Recovery has clients participate in activities such as team-building exercises, therapeutic recreation, and self-expression. Recognizing that you are an individual worthy of respect and consideration is the foundation behind setting and maintaining healthy boundaries.

Clients participate in exercises, such as role-playing, to practice skills that will keep them in recovery. Part of setting healthy boundaries is learning how to say no, recognize and resist peer pressure, and communicate effectively. Therapies such as group therapy offer further opportunities to practice setting boundaries. Group therapy had the bonus of giving clients access to shared wisdom and experiences that can help them create boundaries that feel right to them. 

Of course, the staff at Driftwood Recovery is always happy to help clients set healthy boundaries for themselves. With a wide range of available experts, it’s easy to get advice for specific boundaries that will best suit the needs of the client. Boundaries for those recovering from addiction, for example, may look different from boundaries designed for those recovering from depression. Healthy boundaries that encourage mutual respect and understanding, however, are fairly universal in their use and importance. 

Receiving treatment at Driftwood Recovery isn’t just a way to recover from mental health conditions. It’s also a place to gain self-confidence and recognize one’s inherent value as a human being. Once you understand that you are worthy of compassion and respect, setting and maintaining healthy boundaries becomes second nature. 

Setting healthy boundaries is important to maintain healthy relationships with others. It’s especially important for those in recovery. It’s easy for a friend or other loved one to jeopardize your sobriety when healthy boundaries are not in place. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, we work to set all of our clients up for success during and after treatment. Learning how to navigate relationships and set boundaries that protect your mental health and recovery is only one of the ways Driftwood Recovery prepares clients for life after treatment. Don’t wait to learn how to have healthier relationships and safeguard your recovery. To learn more, call Driftwood Recovery today at (512) 759-8330.

Trigeminal neuralgia is widely considered one of the most distressing chronic pain conditions a person can develop. It’s a rare condition, affecting an estimated 4 to 13 per 100,000 people annually. Trigeminal neuralgia isn’t just the pain it causes. It’s also the conditions that occur because of it, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and, in some cases, suicide. Those who struggle with trigeminal neuralgia often do so in silence, as chronic pain is considered an “invisible” condition. 

That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, we give a voice to those who struggle with chronic pain conditions. With a focus on comprehensive and quality care, clients don’t just find a way to take back control of their lives. They also find a community of those who understand and support them. There is hope, and anything is possible with the right help, including care for trigeminal neuralgia and its co-occurring conditions.

Understanding trigeminal neuralgia is the first step to spreading awareness about this condition and its treatment. The more we know, the easier it is to support our fellow people who live with these difficult and often misunderstood conditions.

What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve of the face. This is a large, three-part nerve that sends signals between the face and the brain. When this nerve is interrupted or damaged, it can cause intense pain in one or more parts of the face. Common pain spots include the cheek, jaw, teeth, gums, and lips. Sometimes, the forehead and eye may be affected as well. This condition is often classified as type 1 and type 2, depending on which side of the face and the type of pain that occurs.

The pain for type 1 trigeminal neuralgia is commonly described as feeling like an intense electric shock or jolt that occurs from simply touching the affected area. This pain usually occurs on one side of the face. Type 2 is marked by constant aching or burning pain that happens in addition to pain attacks, which can occur on one or both sides of the face. Either type makes it difficult to perform normal functions, such as eating, smiling, or shaving without intense pain. 

Trigeminal neuralgia often occurs in women or people over 50. However, this condition can develop at any time if a person experiences significant facial or cranial trauma. Stroke, facial injuries, brain tumors, nerve blockages/obstructions, and surgical trauma are all common causes of trigeminal neuralgia. People with hypertension or multiple sclerosis are also at risk for developing trigeminal neuralgia. The link is common enough that upon the development of trigeminal neuralgia, multiple sclerosis testing is recommended. 

Pain experienced from trigeminal neuralgia can fluctuate or increase in intensity over time. This leaves those who struggle with this condition with the fear of it getting worse.

The Mental Toll of Trigeminal Neuralgia

As a chronic pain condition, trigeminal neuralgia can have a devastating toll on an individual’s mental health. Conditions such as depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and sleep disorder increased upon the diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia. Individuals are often driven to find ways to self-medicate their pain, no matter how dangerous the behavior. Substance abuse, especially pain medications, such as opioids, are commonly abused by those with a chronic pain condition. 

Chronic pain conditions are also marked as particularly isolating. It’s known as an “invisible” illness, with many people being dismissed or ignored because they don’t look like they are in pain. Being unable to perform normal functions as a person, such as washing your face, can add to the frustration and loneliness of this condition. Without help, it’s easy to slide into an addiction or, in extreme cases, think about ending your life. It’s why it’s vital for those with trigeminal neuralgia to not just get treatment, but find hope and support. 

Finding Hope at Driftwood Recovery

Though it is a chronic condition, trigeminal neuralgia and any co-occurring mental health disorders can be treated and managed. The staff at Driftwood Recovery is well aware of the toll this and other chronic pain conditions have on a person’s physical and mental health. Rather than sell a cure that doesn’t exist, Driftwood Recovery focuses on reliving pain safely and bolstering mental resilience. In time, clients can find joy and reasons to embrace life again.

This is accomplished by creating an individualized comprehensive treatment plan that combines therapy, wellness, and medication. To treat trigeminal neuralgia specifically, clients are prescribed medications such as anticonvulsants to block pain signals and reduce the frequency of attacks. If this does not work, other medications can be tried to provide relief. Combined with medications are complementary approaches that may also help manage pain, such as:

• Nutritional therapy
• Meditation
• Low-impact exercise
• Aromatherapy
• Yoga

Clients at Driftwood Recovery utilize psychotherapy as part of treatment, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). These therapies are designed to help clients recognize harmful thought and behavior patterns and change them. This involves learning healthy coping skills, practicing mental wellness, and building mental resilience. Group and family therapy gives clients a safe space to have their voices heard and receive support in return. 

In some cases, surgery can relieve the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia. Side effects are common after these procedures, such as facial numbness, and symptoms can return even if the procedure is successful. Though surgeries are not performed at Driftwood Recovery, psychotherapies can help clients prepare for the emotional and physical toll of surgery should the client choose a surgical approach. No matter what, clients can trust that they will receive the most accurate, comprehensive, and compassionate treatment available. Though it may not seem like it now, there is always hope that your life will get better, and it can get better at Driftwood Recovery.

There are many kinds of chronic pain that a person may develop throughout their life. One of them is known as trigeminal neuralgia, a condition that makes touch to the face painful. Such a condition isn’t just painful; it can also cause other mental health disorders, such as anxiety and addiction. Despite this, there is hope for those who struggle with trigeminal neuralgia. Treatments exist not just to reduce physical pain but to relieve mental anguish as well. Here at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients everywhere can find relief from their chronic pain and develop a healthier mindset. To learn how Driftwood Recovery can help you, call (512) 759-8330 today.

Not many people truly understand what happens in schizophrenia treatment. Much like the condition itself, it seems mysterious to an average person. Most people instead get an inaccurate depiction of schizophrenia from media sources, which further compounds the fear and shame that many with the condition feel. It’s estimated that between 0.25% and 0.64% of the U.S. population have schizophrenia and other related psychotic disorders. However, this number only accounts for those who have sought schizophrenia treatment. The actual number is likely much higher, as many don’t seek schizophrenia treatment due to societal stigma and internalized shame. 

This treatment is vital, as untreated schizophrenia can lead to or co-occur with other conditions, such as addiction. Those struggling with schizophrenia are more likely to attempt or die by suicide, especially those without diagnosis or treatment. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, clients with this condition can find comprehensive and compassionate schizophrenia treatment. With a focus on providing an encouraging and private environment to heal, anyone can learn how to manage their condition for a successful life.

Part of schizophrenia treatment is understanding what the condition is, its myths, and why treatment is so effective. The more people are aware of the truth of schizophrenia, the less fear and stigma are attached to it – and the greater the likelihood that a person in need will seek help.

What Is Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a psychiatric condition that interferes with a person’s ability to think, feel, and behave clearly. Though schizophrenia used to be classified into different types, it is now considered a spectrum disorder with varied symptoms a person can experience. Some common symptoms can include:

• Hallucinations 
• Disorganized speech and thinking
• Delusions 
• Disorganized or unusual motor behavior
• Lack of normal functioning, such as being unable to display emotions, take care of hygiene needs, or feel pleasure in once enjoyable activities when they previously could in the past

Though research is still ongoing on what causes schizophrenia, several risk factors have been identified. A person is more likely to develop schizophrenia if they:

• Have a family history of schizophrenia 
• Grew up in or is still in an environment that causes consistent stress or danger
• Have taken psychoactive or psychotropic substances as teenagers, which may have altered the brain as it was developing 
• Been exposed to environments that may have affected early fetal and infant brain development; examples include being exposed to viruses, toxins, and poor nutrition before or after birth

Schizophrenia usually develops late in life, from the late teen years to the early 30s. Men typically show symptoms between their teen years and their 20s, while women tend to show symptoms in their 20s and 30s. Though considered a life-long condition, it can be managed with the right schizophrenia treatment.

Myths and Facts Surrounding Schizophrenia Treatment

Perhaps the greatest and most damaging myth behind schizophrenia is that those with the condition are dangerous to others. The truth is that those with schizophrenia are more likely to inadvertently harm themselves due to their condition than they are to hurt another person. Seeking treatment is vital in preventing self-harm, but many with schizophrenia are reluctant to seek help.

This is due to another dangerous myth that people with schizophrenia are locked up during treatment and lose their rights. The truth is that people with any mental health condition still have human rights regardless of the severity of their condition. Modern treatment facilities are not prisons, and clients can expect to be treated with compassion, understanding, and respect.

Lastly, it’s a myth that those with schizophrenia are “drugged up” during treatment. Though medication is important in the treatment and management of schizophrenia, clients receive other forms of treatment alongside it. Clients are not “drugged up” and instead receive a carefully crafted medication plan to give them the most relief with the lowest medication dose possible.

To get an accurate picture of schizophrenia treatment, we only need to see how a treatment facility like Driftwood Recovery treats this condition.

Schizophrenia Treatment at Driftwood Recovery

Driftwood Recovery is a comprehensive, holistic, focused treatment center. This means that clients receive treatment that enhances all aspects of their lives, which includes physical, mental, and spiritual health. In the case of schizophrenia and any co-occurring conditions, care is taken to ensure that each client gets the training and assistance they need to continuously manage their condition.

This is done with a combination of medication, psychotherapy, skill training, family therapy, and community support. Antipsychotic medicines are carefully prescribed to work with the lowest dose needed to prevent side effects. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is used to help clients cope with their condition and change unhealthy behaviors that exacerbate symptoms. Clients are encouraged to improve their physical health through exercise and a nutritionally varied diet. Finally, clients work with their loved ones and fellow peers to establish a support network. Having access to a support network doesn’t just produce understanding companionship; it has also been shown to reduce the chance of relapse. 

Clients during the schizophrenia treatment process focus on recognizing episodes and how to mitigate them. Though treatment can greatly reduce the frequency of episodes, they can still happen. Knowing what to do in a crisis and who to contact for help prevents future harm and allows one to receive help quickly. 

Clients at Driftwood Recovery don’t just get treatment. They become part of a supportive community that will always be there when times get hard. For those with schizophrenia, it can be hard to find positives in life. But here, everyone learns that no matter what condition they have, they still have inherent value as an individual. Seeing that you are more than your schizophrenia and finding value in your own life allows those with the condition to not just stabilize but thrive.

Though schizophrenia can be a frightening condition, it doesn’t mean that those who struggle with it can’t be helped. On the contrary, schizophrenia is a treatable condition and can be managed successfully. With the right treatment, anyone with schizophrenia can lead a normal and fulfilling life. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, those struggling with schizophrenia receive comprehensive and holistic treatment to aid them in recovery. With an emphasis on privacy and safety, our clients find an ideal place to heal and become healthier people. By learning how to accept yourself and make healthy changes, you, too, can find joy again. If you or a loved one is struggling, don’t wait. Call (512) 759-8330 today.

Work and home responsibilities often feel more overwhelming during the holidays, when many people feel constantly on the go. Healthcare workers are at a higher risk of experiencing physical and emotional exhaustion and burnout during the holidays unless they prioritize self-care. Driftwood Recovery encourages staff members to create a healthy balance between personal and professional responsibilities during busy times of the year, including the holidays. 

The Need for a Balance Between Work and Home Responsibilities

Healthcare professionals must find a healthy balance between work and home responsibilities to reduce their risk of burnout or mental health issues. According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), “The primary concern for burnout is not being able to emotionally take care of each patient individually or uniquely.” During the holidays, when staff often feel the most emotionally drained, clients frequently experience more challenges. Addressing the risk of healthcare worker burnout ensures clients receive appropriate care. 

Creating a work-life balance involves doing the following: 

• Setting specific times for work hours and personal time 
• Focusing on time-intensive and high-priority tasks first 
• Openly communicating needs and concerns with supervisors and family members 
• Using time management tools, including apps and calendars, to track responsibilities 
• Taking regular breaks 
• Setting realistic personal and professional goals

The more steps a person takes to separate work from their home life, the easier it is to create a sense of balance. Healthcare workers frequently face workplace stress, and the holidays cause additional stress in their home lives. If left unaddressed, the combination of pressures may interfere with a person’s ability to function. 

Maintaining Healthy Boundaries With Supervisors and Coworkers

Boundaries at work allow people to say “no” if they are asked to work additional hours or perform tasks that might negatively impact their mental and physical health. The holidays involve shopping for gifts, preparing meals, connecting with distant relatives, and other time-intensive activities. Healthcare workers must allow themselves to take the time they need to do these tasks without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Setting clear boundaries reduces stress and will enable professionals to enjoy their holiday plans while remaining productive at work. 

How Work and Home Responsibilities Can Affect Mental Health

Some of the ways work and home responsibilities impact mental health during the holidays include: 

• Higher caseloads, holiday staff shortages, and increased hours increase workplace demands
• Long and irregular hours reduce time spent with family 
• Holidays often intensify emotional reactions to client discomfort and pain
• Missing family traditions or events may lead to guilt, stress, and resentment 
• Reduced access to support networks due to traveling or other holiday plans

Healthcare workers can take steps to protect their emotional wellness by preparing for these potential challenges before the holidays arrive. Informing loved ones of possible shifts in work hours, completing holiday shopping in advance, and doing other things to lower stress around the holidays can help healthcare workers maintain emotional stability. 

Avoiding Unnecessary Tasks

The holiday season is full of personal and professional tasks people must complete to meet their goals. Avoiding unnecessary tasks can give people additional time to complete other things they must do at home or work. 

Some examples of unnecessary tasks people can delegate to others or avoid entirely include: 

• Household deep cleaning to impress family or neighbors
• Last-minute shopping trips 
• Overly complex or extensive holiday decorations 
• Personally preparing every dish for a holiday meal
• Sending personalized holiday cards to friends and family 
• Attending all social events 
• Responding to nonemergency work calls during time off.

Professionals significantly minimize holiday stress and anxiety by reducing home and work responsibilities. 

Spending Time With Loved Ones During the Holidays

Social engagement is essential to positive mental health. Professionals are less likely to feel burnt out if they spend time with loved ones during the holidays, making new memories and enjoying the company of the people they care about most. According to Plos One, “[S]ocial connectedness protects and promotes mental and physical health.” Driftwood Recovery ensures staff members have the time to disconnect from work and spend time with their loved ones. 

Practical Ways to Avoid Burnout From Work and Home Stress

Staff with mental health disorders have an increased risk of developing more severe symptoms during periods of heightened stress. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “64 percent of individuals living with a mental illness reported that their conditions worsened around the holidays.” Prioritizing self-care and taking the time to reenergize each week helps healthcare professionals avoid burnout from the combination of work and home stressors. Using self-care to address symptoms and lower stress levels can help healthcare workers with mental health disorders experience fewer side effects during the holidays. Driftwood Recovery supports staff experiencing additional stress during the holidays, ensuring they have the resources to create effective work-life boundaries. 

Balancing work and home responsibilities is difficult for healthcare workers during the holiday season. Some individuals may have large family get-togethers or mandatory work events interfering with their ability to remain productive while connecting with loved ones over the holidays. Workplace stress may also interfere with personal relationships unless people establish firm boundaries between their work and home life. Driftwood Recovery supports employees’ mental health by encouraging staff members to create strict limits that set apart their personal and professional responsibilities during the holidays. Management has an open-door policy and is always available to help staff cope with stressors. To learn more about our workplace culture or treatment programs, call us today at (512) 759-8330.

Many healthcare facilities treating substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health issues see a spike in clients during the holidays. The increased caseload has the potential to cause burnout and additional stress for healthcare workers unless they take steps to prioritize their mental and physical health. Driftwood Recovery encourages staff members to create a healthy work-life balance and work as a team to address any increased client load during the holidays. 

What Causes an Increased Client Load During the Holidays?

Holiday social gatherings may lead some people to realize their need for help. In addition, families that may not connect throughout the year often meet for holidays. Sometimes, families take the opportunity to prompt loved ones to get help. The holidays also create a sense of fellowship in many communities, causing people to reach out to individuals struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues. 

Holiday plans may significantly reduce the number of healthcare workers available to take new cases. Time off for family vacations and traveling causes some departments to have fewer people available to keep up with increased client loads. Flexible scheduling and other solutions support staff without sacrificing the quality of client care. 

Interventions Are More Popular During the Holidays

Many people seek treatment during the holidays. Families often use the holidays as an opportunity to host interventions or urge loved ones to get the help they need to manage substance abuse and mental health disorders. Frequently, people go directly from the intervention location to a treatment center, causing a spike in potential clients for some healthcare facilities during the holidays. Intervention specialists may contact rehabilitation programs and facilitate the transfer of intervention clients on behalf of families. 

How Can Healthcare Workers Manage an Increased Client Load During the Holidays?

Clients may come all at once or as a steady stream of intakes. Healthcare professionals must find ways to manage the increased client load. Additional personal responsibilities during the holidays may make it more difficult for some professionals to focus at work. Combining additional responsibilities and more clients can stretch some people’s skills to breaking. Healthcare professionals need to plan for these moments and develop strategies to avoid emotional burnout during busy seasons. 

Some of the ways staff at rehabilitation programs manage a large influx of clients during the holidays include:

• Temporarily increasing staff or cross-training to fill empty spaces in schedules
• Implementing a more streamlined intake process to more quickly assess and treat new clients 
• Offering additional group therapy options to accommodate more individuals in treatment programs 
• Providing flexible scheduling 
• Offering telehealth services for individuals who do not require in-person care
• Partnering with private and community-based services 
• Consistently communicating with families to facilitate family engagement during the holidays 

Healthcare workers and supervisors can take many steps to improve the experience for clinicians and clients, reducing stress and increasing the effectiveness of treatment. 

Setting Realistic Expectations and Strict Work-Life Boundaries

Professionals must set realistic expectations with clients, coworkers, family members, and friends to avoid feeling pulled in multiple directions. The best way to do this is by being specific and considering all factors affecting their ability to achieve the goal. 

Clinicians treating SUD and mental health disorders often talk to clients about creating S.M.A.R.T. goals. Professionals can use the same principles to develop realistic expectations for work and home. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives is a good way to plan the steps to meet” short and long-term goals.

Making S.M.A.R.T. goals involves doing the following: 

• Clearly defining what you want to achieve by setting specific goals
• Identifying criteria for tracking progress 
• Setting attainable goals 
• Ensuring smaller goals align with larger objectives 

Structured and realistic goals set healthy expectations and increase the likelihood of success. 

Effectively Navigating an Increased Client Load Without Compromising Treatment Quality

Driftwood Recovery is a leading rehabilitation center with luxury accommodations and high-quality services. The clinical team maintains high standards and provides world-class treatment programs. Staff members learn to effectively navigate increases in client loads without compromising treatment quality or client engagement. Professionals use their support network to develop healthy strategies for remaining productive with a large workload. 

Practicing Self-Compassion and Self-Care

Healthcare professionals must treat themselves with grace and compassion to avoid feeling overworked and underappreciated. The holiday season is a difficult time for many people. Some professionals feel guilty for working longer hours and spending less time with family during the holiday rush. Practicing self-care and self-compassion can help healthcare professionals develop a more positive mindset. 

Clients and coworkers benefit when clinicians give themselves the time and space to reenergize each week. A few examples of self-care people use to manage higher stress levels at work include: 

• Spending time alone meditating or practicing mindfulness 
• Participating in hobbies or other enjoyable activities 
• Spending time with pets, loved ones, or social circles
• Setting clear boundaries 
• Getting quality sleep each night 
• Eating balanced, nutritious meals

Healthcare workers can provide exceptional care while maintaining positive mental health during the holidays. 

During the winter months, many treatment facilities get inundated with new clients, contact from potential clients and their families, and alumni needing additional support navigating their first holiday sober. The increase in workload significantly impacts the emotional and physical health of clinicians and support staff. Management at Driftwood Recovery encourages employees to develop a work-life balance and set boundaries to support their mental health during the holidays. Staff need to prioritize their own well-being to provide high-quality care to clients recovering from addiction or mental health disorders. To learn more about our facility and how we support staff members during the holidays, contact our office today by calling (512) 759-8330.