How to Approach Conflict Resolution With Clients in Clinical Setting

Conflict happens sometimes in clinical settings due to a lack of trust between clients and clinicians, miscommunication with coworkers, unrealistic expectations, or other factors. According to Baylor University Medical Center Proceedings, “Conflicts may exist between physicians, between physicians and staff, and between the staff or the health care team and the patient or patient’s family.” In addition, “Conflicts have an adverse effect on productivity, morale, and patient care.” Conflict resolution is an invaluable skill taught to all staff members at Driftwood Recovery. Finding ways to communicate effectively and resolve tension creates a more supportive and welcoming treatment environment. 

Why Is Conflict Resolution an Important Skill for Healthcare Professionals?

Healthcare professionals must navigate many unexpected and sometimes unfriendly situations with coworkers and clients. Conflict is an inevitable part of communicating with other people. How healthcare professionals respond to conflict will determine the outcome of client treatment and workplace morale. 

Resolving conflicts in clinical settings using empathy, compassion, and professionalism does the following: 

• Enhances client trust 
• Encourages team collaboration 
• Improves client outcomes 
• Creates a culture of mutual respect 
• Encourages constructive communication 
• Prevents future conflicts
• Boosts staff retention 
• Ensures client-centered care

Professionals have codes of conduct and other rules they must follow during client interactions. Avoiding conflict is the goal. However, conflict cannot always be avoided. Healthcare workers must know how to safely discuss difficult conversations with clients without damaging the client-clinician relationship. Coworkers must also learn to effectively navigate tense situations to ensure clients receive the best care.

Safely and Confidently De-Escalate Situations

Medical issues often cause emotional distress for clients and their loved ones. In those circumstances, it takes very little to push someone into feeling angry, fearful, embarrassed, or other negative emotions that cause conflict. Healthcare workers must know how to navigate these situations. 

Being able to confidently de-escalate tension with clients or coworkers protects healthcare professionals by creating a safe space for everyone involved. Responding to conflict with confidence and compassion de-escalates the situation and builds trust. According to the Journal of Graduate Medical Education, “Effectively managing conflicts using the least traumatic intervention benefits the patient, the physician, and the health care team.” Driftwood Recovery teaches staff to recognize the potential signs of conflict to de-escalate before it reaches a point where clients or their families become physically or verbally abusive. 

How to Safely Resolve Conflict in a Clinical Setting

Some of the ways healthcare professionals safely resolve conflict in a clinical setting include: 

• Focusing on understanding all perspectives before responding 
• Maintaining focus to avoid escalating emotions 
• Using “I” statements to prevent blaming language 
• Establishing professional expectations to avoid miscommunication 
• Offering solutions instead of criticisms
• Adhering to established conflict resolution guidelines and codes of conduct
• Prioritizing patient well-being and comfort 

Conflict can happen anytime between anyone, making it essential for healthcare professionals to know how to get support and help if necessary. Driftwood Recovery has policies and procedures in place to keep clients and staff safe. 

Conflict Resolution as a Tool for Client Engagement

Client engagement is essential for program adherence and positive treatment outcomes. Studies have shown that “[a]n important aspect of treatment engagement is making certain that all program staff members greet new clients in a respectful, friendly, and supportive manner that reflects sensitivity to their situations.” If miscommunication or other issues affect how clients feel about their care team or the treatment process, de-escalation techniques may reduce tension and resolve conflict. 

Client engagement in treatment does the following: 

• Builds trust between clients and staff 
• Improves treatment retention 
• Increases motivation to actively participate in treatment 
• Encourages honest communication 
• Facilitates skill development 

Healthcare professionals facilitate client engagement in rehabilitation by providing a welcoming environment and consistent support. 

How Does Driftwood Recovery Utilize Conflict Resolution?

Every staff member receives training on conflict resolution. The treatment center has policies and procedures to keep professionals and clients safe during the treatment process. Resolving conflicts in a healthy and appropriate way reduces client stress and defensiveness while promoting trust and safety. 

Staff members at Driftwood Recovery utilize the following conflict resolution techniques: 

• Active listening 
• Empathy and validation 
• Reflective listening
• Collaborative problem-solving 
• Maintaining a nonconfrontational approach 
• Facilitating mediation 
• Modeling emotional regulation skills

Staff also provide psychoeducation to help clients understand the connections between triggers and behaviors. 

Helping Clients Overcome Issues With Trust

Many individuals with SUD may struggle to overcome issues with trust due to past negative experiences with authority figures or previous treatment programs. Healthcare professionals build trust by taking the time to genuinely get to know clients and their families. Conflict can often be avoided if staff take the time to learn their clients’ individual needs, history, and preferences before treatment begins. 

Individuals seeking treatment for chronic substance abuse or mental health disorders benefit from developing additional communication and social skills during rehabilitation. Healthcare professionals model these skills through everyday interactions and treatment services, making it easier for clients to regulate their responses and avoid conflict or tension. 

Healthcare workers face many challenging situations where they must act with professionalism and compassion. Many people experiencing medical conditions struggle to communicate their needs and concerns, leading to potential conflict and tension between clinicians and clients. Individuals in healthcare must learn to communicate effectively and de-escalate tense situations. Driftwood Recovery ensures staff know how to avoid conflict and manage communication with clients and their families. Rehabilitation programs also teach clients essential coping skills, including effective communication. Staff collaborate closely with clients to create a deeper connection and an open line of communication. To learn more about our programs and how we facilitate client healing and personal growth, call us today at (512) 759-8330.

Healthcare programs often involve complex topics and conversations that leave clients feeling vulnerable. Clients and their families may struggle to communicate their needs effectively. Studies have shown that “[g]iven the shift in healthcare to a more patient-centered approach and the positive association between high-quality communication with a healthcare provider and improved patient outcomes, it is essential to acknowledge and assess factors that generate dissonance between the patient and the clinician.” The compassionate staff at Driftwood Recovery helps clients and their families navigate difficult conversations by providing education and support. 

Language Matters When Discussing Complex or Delicate Topics

The language health providers use impacts their relationship with clients and families. Staff at programs for mental health and substance abuse must take special care not to stigmatize or disempower clients. Language humanizes or dehumanizes people depending on the word choices made. According to The BMJ, “[S]pecific word choices and phrases affect how patients view their health and illness, reflect healthcare workers’ perceptions of their patients, and influence medical care and treatments offered.” In addition, “Language in medical narratives also shapes how trainees think, talk, and act, perpetuating any ingrained biases.”

Some of the language healthcare workers should avoid in a professional setting include: 

• Stigmatizing terms (e.g., “junkie,” “addict,” etc.)
• Blaming language (e.g., “you need to do better”)
• Minimizing statements (e.g., “it’s not that bad”)
• Overly clinical jargon that may confuse clients 
• Insensitive humor
• Dismissive language (e.g., “you’re just not trying hard enough”)

Creating a healthy client-clinician relationship requires healthcare professionals to tailor their responses and word choices to each client. By taking the time to get to know clients on a human level and finding a positive way to connect, healthcare workers improve the treatment experience. Clients and their families are more likely to adhere to treatment guidelines and express concerns if they feel comfortable with their care team. Healthcare workers have an easier time treating clients who feel secure and confident in the treatment process. 

How Can Healthcare Professionals Navigate Difficult Conversations?

Some medical cases involve discussions about topics that may cause clients to feel fear, uncertainty, or embarrassment. Clients may react defensively or challenge their care team if they do not agree with or fully understand the information provided. Individuals in healthcare reduce stress on themselves by reassuring clients. Clinicians educate, empower, and support clients during these conversations, building a deeper connection. 

Healthcare professionals navigate difficult conversations with clients by doing the following: 

• Practicing active listening 
• Using empathy and validation 
• Remaining nonjudgmental 
• Setting clear professional boundaries 
• Adapting communication styles to the client
• Providing information and context to clients
• Encouraging collaborative problem-solving 
• Remaining calm and composed

Healthcare professionals may also use supervision or peer support to ensure clients and their families receive the best care. A mediator or outside support may help some clients feel more comfortable during these difficult conversations. 

Healthcare Workers Must Know How to Navigate Difficult Conversations at Every Stage of Treatment

Every stage of treatment comes with unique challenges, and it is impossible to accurately predict how each client will react to various setbacks or unexpected situations. Healthcare professionals can help clients experience a smooth transition between multiple levels of care and stages of healing by ensuring they know what to expect and how to manage their condition. Maintaining an open line of communication with clients and families significantly reduces the risk of adverse outcomes. 

Communication Between Team Members Ensures Consistency

Staff at Driftwood Recovery strengthen interpersonal skills and communication by frequently checking in with team members. Clients receive more consistent treatment, and staff report less workplace pressure if they communicate effectively with coworkers. 

Consistency in communication benefits clients and healthcare providers by doing the following:

• Building trust and credibility with clients and their families
• Making treatment more predictable to reduce client anxiety
• Reducing miscommunication and confusion about treatment expectations 
• Supporting emotional stability and helping clients process complex topics
• Making challenging conversations feel less abrupt and overwhelming for clients 

Consistency between stages of treatment reduces the risk of relapse and promotes resilience. Clients are more likely to have favorable outcomes if they communicate frequently and effectively with the care team about challenging topics. 

How Does Driftwood Recovery Instruct Staff to Navigate Difficult Conversations?

Staff at Driftwood Recovery practice compassion, integrity, and transparency during conversations with clients and families. Clinicians understand that some discussions may become emotionally distressing, making it difficult for clients or their loved ones to remain objective. Maintaining a calm demeanor and communicating without judgment allows healthcare professionals to carefully guide the conversation. Individuals in healthcare use specific strategies to discuss complex topics with clients, ensuring clarity and empathy. 

Some effective strategies and techniques professionals use include: 

• Active listening to validate client concerns and ensure a thoughtful response 
• Using simple and straightforward language to avoid miscommunication or confusion 
• Setting the right tone by speaking calmly and clearly 
• Regulating personal emotions to remain composed
• Acknowledging and validating the client’s feelings and concerns 
• Framing conversations in a positive way
• Providing reassurance to the client without offering false hope 
• Giving clients time to process information 
• Empowering clients by offering choices whenever possible 
• Following up to address any lingering questions or concerns

Staff at Driftwood Recovery work together to support clients and ensure each member of the care team feels comfortable navigating challenging conversations. 

Healthcare professionals must navigate many difficult and complex conversations with clients and families. Taking the time to make a deeper connection with clients allows clinicians to tailor conversations to the expectations and goals of each individual. Discussing complex topics requires healthcare workers to practice compassion and professionalism. Driftwood Recovery ensures staff members have the training and education necessary to have productive conversations with clients about challenging subjects. Experts adapt their language and conversation styles to the needs and preferences of each client. Developing effective communication skills allows healthcare professionals to educate clients and put them at ease. To learn more about how our professionals communicate with clients, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.

Individuals with co-occurring disorders may require additional treatment or support services to address their symptoms and side effects. Healthcare professionals often benefit from providing personalized care to clients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other co-occurring mental health issues. The staff at Driftwood Recovery use comprehensive assessments and other tools to help clients with substance use disorder (SUD) and dual diagnosis.

Treating Clients With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Clients with OCD may struggle to adhere to specific treatment guidelines. For example, time management may be difficult for some individuals with complex routines related to their disorder, making them more likely to miss appointments or fail to complete certain mandatory activities. In addition, clients with OCD often have more severe anxiety and may require accommodations to reduce stress and anxiety during treatment. 

Some of the challenges of treating clients with co-occurring OCD and SUD include: 

• Individuals who have used substances to manage symptoms of OCD may have a more challenging time separating addiction from compulsive behaviors 
• Clients with OCD often experience more severe anxiety during withdrawal 
• Individuals with OCD may find it challenging to distinguish cravings from OCD symptoms 
• People diagnosed with OCD often have rigid, black-and-white thinking and may struggle with the recovery process 
• Clients with OCD are more likely to experience anxiety related to prescription medications 
• SUD and OCD may both lead to self-isolating behaviors, making it more difficult for clients to engage in treatment 

Addiction and mental health experts must consider these factors when educating clients and creating treatment plans. Family involvement in the treatment process could reduce some of the barriers to treatment. Staff members at Driftwood Recovery collaborate with one another and clients to determine what factors may require additional treatment and support. Providing effective and appropriate client care often involves multiple treatment modalities or the support of outside resources. 

Diagnosing Co-Occurring OCD and Substance Use Disorder

Undiagnosed OCD can cause significant emotional distress and interfere with the treatment of alcohol or drug addiction. The initial intake interview involves taking a detailed medical and personal history to ensure that healthcare professionals make an accurate diagnosis. According to the Journal of Anxiety Disorders, “OCD symptoms often go undetected in individuals with SUDs.” Driftwood Recovery uses comprehensive assessments and screening tools to diagnose co-occurring disorders. 

Some clients may have multiple co-occurring conditions or severe symptoms of withdrawal that make it more difficult for clinicians to make an accurate diagnosis. The care team at Driftwood Recovery may conduct a second assessment after detox to reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and ensure clients receive the best care. Healthcare professionals must consistently monitor client treatment and adjust care plans to address any new symptoms or factors affecting mental health. 

The Connections Between Addiction and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Addiction and OCD have some overlapping risk factors and side effects. Clinicians benefit from educating clients on how these conditions interact. Simultaneous treatment may reduce the severity of symptoms for both disorders. 

A few of the known connections between OCD and SUD include: 

• Individuals with OCD may use alcohol or drugs to manage symptoms 
• Both disorders involve compulsive behaviors 
• Trauma caused by the side effects of substance abuse may lead to OCD 
• Both conditions share neurobiological pathways 

Clients with co-occurring OCD and SUD may have multiple factors connecting both conditions. Healthcare professionals must work with clients and families to determine how best to address the root causes of these disorders. Treating OCD and SUD together can reduce overall stress and speed the healing process. 

Addressing Both Conditions Simultaneously

Clients with co-occurring OCD and SUD may transition through multiple levels of care as they learn to effectively manage their condition. Healthcare professionals use a wide range of therapeutic modalities to address each client’s unique needs. Addressing both conditions simultaneously often has the best outcomes, and treatment for OCD frequently extends through aftercare. 

How Does Driftwood Recovery Address Co-Occurring Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Staff members at Driftwood Recovery work together to provide clients with practical tools for managing symptoms of OCD during treatment. The integrative care and personalized treatment programs allow clients to heal at their own pace and receive individualized support. 

Symptoms and side effects of OCD vary significantly from person to person. In addition, the impact of SUD on mental health may fluctuate over time. Tailored care plans allow healthcare professionals to carefully monitor and adjust client treatment. Personalized rehabilitation programs support clients and ensure the services meet their needs and preferences. 

Experts Offer Personalized Care Plans

Personalized care plans improve treatment outcomes for individuals with co-occurring SUD and OCD by providing the following:

• Customized therapeutic techniques 
• Optimized medication management 
• Dual relapse prevention 
• Flexible scheduling and practical support 
• Client-centered treatment goals 
• Ongoing evaluation of progress 

Staff members at Driftwood Recovery use tailored treatment and aftercare planning to prepare clients with OCD for long-term sobriety.  

Clients with co-occurring SUD and OCD may struggle with different aspects of treatment. Intrusive thoughts are common and may interfere with a person’s ability to adhere to treatment expectations. Healthcare professionals improve treatment outcomes by taking a detailed client history and determining the best way to accommodate their needs during rehabilitation. Personalized care plans and tailored therapy sessions allow for greater adaptability and enable clients with OCD to manage their symptoms more effectively. Experts at Driftwood Recovery use a whole-person approach to client care to ensure individuals in treatment feel supported and valued. To learn more about how we treat individuals with OCD and other co-occurring conditions, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.

Developing bad habits is one of the pitfalls a person can face while in addiction recovery. This is especially true for people leaving a structured environment, such as residential treatment. Learning how to care for yourself during and post-treatment can be hard. However, anyone can learn and practice healthy habits. Mental health care and addiction treatment facilities such as Driftwood Recovery work to teach these skills. With enough time and practice, a bad habit can be prevented from taking root. 

What Are Bad Habits?

A habit can be considered good or bad depending on its effect on an individual. Even the most healthy of habits can turn dangerous if misused or uncontrolled. For example, exercise is important to have a healthy body. Over-exercising, however, can put you at risk for serious injury. As a result, a bad habit is defined as actions that cause a detrimental effect on your mental or physical health. These habits may also invoke feelings of guilt or shame in a person.

Examining some examples of common bad habits that can develop during recovery shows how easy a bad habit can take root — but also, how you can fix them. 

#1. Bad Habits That Ignore Healthy Routines

It takes a lot to keep a person healthy. They must eat nutritious food, rest, sleep, exercise, socialize, and stay clean. Some healthy habits are established early in life, such as brushing your teeth or taking a bath regularly. However, it’s easy to fall out of these habits, which neglects your health. Bad habits include examples such as isolating yourself, not sleeping regularly, or eating nothing but junk food. 

Those who engage in these habits are routinely tired and unwell, which can cause them to lose their mental resilience. This makes it harder to resist cravings or urges that can still happen even after addiction treatment is completed.

The best way to get back on track is to use alarms or reminder apps to help establish a new routine. Healthy food services exist to provide nutrition, even when you don’t have time to cook. Driftwood Recovery goes over the importance of nutrition and exercise, so it’s always okay to contact a staff member to help you get on track. It takes time, but establishing a healthy routine will eventually become second nature. 

#2. Rejecting Further Help Because You Feel ‘Cured’

It’s essential to understand that addiction and other mental health conditions can’t be cured. However, they can be managed well enough for someone to achieve recovery and function normally. Recovery is not a finish line, but a continuous journey that will last the rest of your life. Everyone, including you, will need help again at some point in your life. Even people who have never developed an addiction or mental health disorder can need help. Recovery means accepting this and being willing to utilize professional and familial/peer support to assist when needed. 

Assuming that you no longer need to be aware of your mental and physical health can lead to more problems than a decline in general health. Always be aware of your needs and establish a crisis plan with your provider before leaving treatment. 

#3. Bad Habits That Surround You With Negative Influences

Surrounding yourself with negativity can sharply decline your mental health. This can result from a lack of boundaries, or hanging around toxic people. It also comes from living in a chaotic or unclean environment. People-pleasers often fall into these bad habits because they have difficulty saying “no.” Being around these influences can trigger a relapse. 

That’s why Driftwood Recovery works with clients to teach them essential social skills. These include setting firm boundaries, resisting peer pressure, and finding self-worth in yourself. You don’t have to accept mistreatment from others. Free yourself and find healthier connections. You deserve to be treated well. 

#4. Substituting Addictions in Recovery

You’ve worked hard to overcome your addiction. Now care must be taken to ensure that you aren’t still engaging in the bad habit of self-medicating. Bad habits often form as a response to stress and other difficulties. You may be tempted to engage in certain behaviors, such as shopping or gambling, as a form of relaxation. Or you may use substances that you may consider less dangerous, such as nicotine, as a “safer” way to deal with stress. These habits can quickly become another addiction if left unchecked and can rapidly spiral out of control.

The best response is prevention. Clients at Driftwood Recovery learn techniques, such as stress management and self-care, to reduce the desire to self-medicate. If you feel as though your behaviors or substance use are getting out of hand, it’s vital to seek help immediately. 

#5. Being Too Hard on Yourself

Perhaps the most impactful bad habits are the ones that bring down your self-esteem. It’s common for people in recovery to be overly hard on themselves. Such feelings are especially entrenched if their actions harmed someone. The unresolved guilt and shame can drive someone to inflict increasingly dangerous levels of self-punishment or penance. These bad habits start as thoughts that you don’t “deserve” something nice because of your past actions. It can quickly turn into constant negative self-talk, lowered self-esteem, and denying yourself joy. 

Addictions are hard enough on an individual. Self-punishment does nothing but cause pain, because it will never feel enough to completely eradicate guilt and shame. Instead, make a habit of volunteering or giving back to the community. That way, you can make a positive difference in the world and find healing in yourself. Letting go of the guilt is hard, but possible for anyone with the right help. 

It’s easy to not be kind to yourself. Forming healthy habits is in of itself a form of self-care. So, don’t let bad habits sabotage your recovery. Be aware, lean on your support, and seek professional help to ensure lasting healthy recovery habits. 

Bad habits don’t just make life harder. They can also threaten recovery and trigger a relapse. Everyone in recovery needs to be aware of common bad habits around recovery and work to overcome them. At Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients use therapeutic techniques to identify harmful habits. Then, they can change these habits into healthy ones, ensuring that they have the skills they need to remain in recovery. Having access to a robust community of fellow alumni ensures that clients learn and practice healthy habits, ensuring lasting recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, don’t wait to get help. Call Driftwood Recovery today at (512) 759-8330.

Traditional ideas of recovery and media representations often paint addiction treatment with a broad brush. As a result, sobriety is usually thought of as the abstinence of substances. However, detox and abstinence are only elements of your journey toward sustained recovery. Recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) and or co-occurring mental health disorders requires a whole-person approach to healing. Thus, understanding the impact of self-stigma is an important step towards maintaining your recovery.

At Driftwood Recovery, we know how important it is to find a meaningful role in life. Finding meaning and purpose is fundamental to believing in your capacity for change and growth. A sense of self can encourage self-compassion and motivation to continue to strive for wellness. However, challenges post-treatment with stressors like stigma can impede your well-being. Further, the impact of self-stigma can rob you of your confidence and hope. 

Therefore, understanding the impact of self-stigma can be invaluable to dismantling barriers to a courageous life in recovery. Yet, you may question how self-stigma can dismantle all the work you have done to heal. The impact of self-stigma alone does not lead to relapse but is a powerful obstacle that erodes your resilience. Thus, understanding the impact of self-stigma, further highlights the need to break down the assumptions about treatment and recovery that disrupt adaptive coping strategies. 

Assumptions About Treatment and Recovery

Many assumptions about addiction and mental health can cloud judgment on treatment and recovery. Some of the assumptions that can impede your well-being include:

• The loss of friends
  • Truth: Disconnecting from friends who still abuse substances is common
  • Those friendships were based on substance use
  • You learn how to build healthy and mutually supportive sober relationships 
• Constant boredom
  • Truth: Sobriety gives you the freedom to discover or rediscover sober passions
  • Finding sober activities and hobbies can foster joy and fulfillment
• Loss of identity
  • Truth: Sobriety can give you the tools to uncover your true identity
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is not real sobriety
  • Truth: MAT can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings
  • Support relapse prevention
• No support post-treatment
  • Truth: A comprehensive and holistic approach to treatment supports continuing care resources
  • You can access alumni services and resources that support sustained recovery
    • Outpatient programs
    • Sober living
    • Stable housing resources
    • Education and employment resources
    • Counseling
    • Peer support groups
    • Family programs
    • Alumni meetings, events, and activities
• Relapse equals failure
  • Truth: Recovery is a dynamic process, filled with peaks and valleys
  • Much like other health challenges, addiction is a disorder that requires individualized trial and error
• Recovery equals cured
  • Truth: Recovery is a lifelong process of self-discovery and growth
  • Through recovery, you engage in the continuation of self-education, adaptive coping strategies, forming healthy habits, and social support 
• Seeking support is a weakness
  • Truth: It takes significant courage and bravery to recognize the need for support and to reach out for help

The assumptions associated with treatment and recovery are often unfounded myths that perpetuate stigma. Through the perpetuation of myths about addiction and mental health, stigma is left to fester and rot the sense of self. It is imperative to understand the role stigma plays in recovery.     

Understanding the Different Forms of Stigma

In general, stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes people may hold about others. The negative attitude, prejudice, or false beliefs of stigma are often associated with specific traits, seen and unseen health symptoms, and sociocultural circumstances. Through stigma, discrimination occurs, which can increase challenges with others, laws and practices, and how you see yourself. Thus, stigma does not exist as a singular form; rather, there are many intersecting forms of stigma. As the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) notes, stigma can be broken into three categories: 

• Social stigma: negative stereotypes that members or perceived members of a group have socially undesirable characteristics
  • Built on misunderstandings, partial truths, and generalizations 
  • Leads to distancing and exclusion
• Structural stigma: discriminatory laws, policies, and practices that negatively impact specific individuals and groups
  • Built on explicit and implicit biases
  • Leads to unequal access to opportunities, resources, and services
    • Housing
    • Employment
    • Education
    • Healthcare
    • Criminalization
• Self-stigma: when members of a stigmatized group believe the negative beliefs and stereotypes about themselves
  • Built on the pervasive and persistent nature of social and structural stigma
  • Leads to shame, guilt, hopelessness, low self-esteem, and the avoidance of support

Further, the impact of self-stigma in particular can be profoundly detrimental to maintaining recovery.

The Impact of Self-Stigma on Recovery

Many different characteristics like race and ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and religion are stigmatized. Additionally, groups with physical disabilities, mental illness, and or SUD experience significant stigmatization. In particular, the impact of self-stigma erodes resilience to the challenges of SUD and or co-occurring mental illness. As noted in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, once you internalize negative stereotypes, you are open to physical and psychological harm:

• Self-esteem
• Self-worth
• Self-efficacy
• Health outcomes
• Quality of life
• Healthcare service use
• Increase self-isolation

Yet, how do you overcome the impact of self-stigma?

Dismantling the Impact of Self-Stigma

Stigma is a social injustice that harms countless lives. Although you cannot eradicate social and structural stigma alone, there are steps you can take to lessen the impact of self-stigma in your life. While everyone’s experiences and needs are unique, a strong support system can be invaluable to dismantling the impact of self-stigma. Connecting with your loved ones, peers, and community can support:

• Empowerment
• Self-worth
• Self-compassion
• Self-understanding
• Self-reliance 
• Independence
• Knowledge
• Adaptive coping
• Resilience
• Sense of belonging

Through activities and shared experiences, you can form a sense of community with others to thrive in recovery together.

Healing Connections: Overcoming the Impact of Self-Stigma at Driftwood Recovery

At Driftwood Recovery, we know how valuable a peer-driven approach can be for whole-person healing. With a strong alumni family, you can meet, manage, and overcome everyday and unexpected stressors. Moreover, through shared experiences, you are reminded that you are not alone or less than. You are loved, wanted, valued, and worthy of health, recovery, and happiness. 

Stigma contributes to myths about treatment and recovery for SUD and mental health disorders. Further, challenges with stigma can come from social stigma, structural stigma, and self-stigma. Each category of stigma can be detrimental, but the impact of self-stigma can be particularly harmful to recovery. Self-stigma can erode your self-esteem and self-worth and increase self-isolation. You become convinced that you are weak, a burden, and unworthy of healing. However, with support, you can rediscover your sense of belonging to thrive. Therefore, at Driftwood Recovery, we are dedicated to fostering a peer-driven alumni to heal through connections built from shared experiences and support. Call us at (512) 759-8330 to learn more today.

Continuous and reliable mental health support is one of the essential components in lasting recovery. With the internet, it’s now easier than ever to stay in contact with a support network. It’s not just this contact that is a boon to those seeking mental health support. More access to digital resources has broken down barriers that kept people from seeking help, or realizing that they need help in the first place. The more awareness about mental health conditions is spread, the more likely vital information will reach those who need it the most.

However, as amazing as the internet is in assisting people, it can also bring harm. It’s important for those who rely on digital mental health support to understand common dangers they may face along the way. The internet, like most tools, can have a positive or negative effect depending on how the individual utilizes it. 

That’s why mental health care and addiction treatment facilities work to stay on top of the constant breakthroughs in digital support and care. Doing so helps keep clients safe, while also having access to new tools that can further assist in treatment and recovery. Facilities like Driftwood Recovery have even created their own app, allowing their clients and alumni to have portable support and assistance. 

The digital world is vast, but there are some common places a struggling person can look for mental health support.

Common Digital Sources of Mental Health Support

The internet is amazing in that it can connect people who are states, or even whole continents away. Easy means of creating websites, forums, and chatrooms allows for the quick creation of communities united under one topic or goal. It’s common for people to use these sources to connect with those who share a hobby, or the love for a book or television series. However, those who need mental health support can find communities centered around care, treatment, and recovery. A few searches or recommendations from a treatment provider can point you in the right direction to find them.

Local support groups or mental health care facilities may have an online chatroom or forum that clients can access alongside in-person meetings. Some facilities use telehealth, a video care service to reach clients who may be unable to leave their homes, or live far away. Telehealth has been invaluable in extending care to vulnerable people, especially during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. As long as you have a webcam, you can chat with a provider, or participate in a support group on Zoom, all without leaving the house.

Apps are another common source of mental health support. They can do everything from sending medication reminders to walking you through calming breathing exercises. Some people in recovery use apps to track their progress or journal their experiences. No matter what your needs are, a specialized app may exist to assist you. 

However, as useful as these digital support tools are, it’s still important to be cautious when using them.

Online Safety Tips When Seeking Mental Health Support

Several dangers can exist online — one being toxic communities and echo chambers. These communities can spread misinformation or even encourage someone to jeopardize their recovery. Before joining an online community or chat group, examine their behaviors. Do they encourage you to seek professional help, or are they trying to sell you a miracle cure? Will they hold you accountable, or will they blame your actions on others? Do they accept criticism, or do they get angry when you bring up concerns? Trust your gut, especially if they make you feel insecure or isolated.

Secondly, never give out your full name and address online. Be wary about sharing pictures, especially if they have identifying information in them. If you are meeting someone, do so in a public place and always tell someone where you are going. Some apps can also be malware or viruses in disguise. Always check reviews and only download apps from secure sites. 

If you are seeking digital mental health support, it’s always okay to talk to a mental health care professional about it. They’ll give you resources that will help you find connections with others. They may be able to recommend apps or other digital tools that can offer assistance. For those in treatment at Driftwood Recovery, there is the Driftwood Recovery app — which can further assist in the recovery process. 

The Driftwood Recovery App

As part of the alumni program, all clients, alumni, and their families have access to the Driftwood Recovery app. This app is designed to help participants stay connected, no matter how far away they are. It allows for continuous peer support, ensuring that nobody is alone or isolated. This is important, as studies show that peer support has a positive effect on recovery. The Driftwood Recovery app also offers easy access to current and future events. With regular updates, participants learn about upcoming workshops and community meetups. 

The goal of the Driftwood Recovery app is to remind participants that they are never alone, even when they struggle. There is always a way to connect with your peers. Sobriety can be challenging and having that connection available can be welcomed. Also, it’s not uncommon for peers to form lasting friendships. Being reminded of exciting upcoming events can offer mental health support by showing you that good things are coming your way. For those who struggle to pull themselves out of darkness, having such a beacon of light can help guide them out.

The digital age offers many wonders. Perhaps the most amazing of all is easier access to help for those struggling. 

The digital age has allowed for people with mental health disorders to find support and assistance from the comfort of their homes. Utilizing digital resources ensures that individuals can stay in contact with their support network or seek help quickly. The value of such tools cannot be overstated. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, we provide and guide clients to mental health digital tools to assist them in their recovery journey. With our Driftwood Recovery app, alumni can stay connected, and subsequently, stay in recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or its co-occurring mental health disorders, don’t wait to get help. Contact Driftwood Recovery today at (512) 759-8330.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common co-occurring disorders diagnosed alongside substance use disorder (SUD). The symptoms and side effects of ADHD vary significantly from person to person and exist along a spectrum. Healthcare professionals use evidence-based and holistic modalities to treat addiction and co-occurring ADHD. Driftwood Recovery encourages staff to tailor treatment services to accommodate clients with ADHD and other conditions. 

Clients With ADHD May Experience Unique Symptoms and Side Effects

Healthcare professionals must keep in mind how co-occurring conditions, including ADHD, may impact a client’s ability to adhere to treatment guidelines and achieve lasting sobriety. Flexible rehabilitation programs treat all active conditions simultaneously and allow for accommodations. Experts in mental health and addiction work together to effectively address any symptoms or side effects clients experience during early recovery. 

Individuals diagnosed with co-occurring SUD and ADHD may experience unique symptoms, including: 

• Impulsivity 
• Difficulty delaying gratification 
• Increased cravings and intrusive thoughts 
• Forgetfulness
• Disorganization
• Intense mood swings and emotion dysregulation 
• Trouble with low stimulation and boredom 
• Chronic sleep disturbances or irregular sleep patterns 
• Impaired executive function 
• Inconsistent motivation and difficulty following through with set goals 

Clinicians benefit from collaborating with clients to determine the most effective way to manage issues affecting client focus, energy, and commitment to recovery. Treatment plans generally include a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies. According to Cureus, “Non-pharmacologic interventions proposed for the management of ADHD include mindfulness-based stress management, exercise, and meditation amongst others.” Staff at Driftwood Recovery accommodate clients with ADHD who may need additional structure or support to remain actively engaged in treatment. 

Creating Personalized Care Plans for Specific Groups

Tailored care plans allow mental health and addiction experts to adjust treatment as needed to meet client goals. Healthcare professionals create personalized treatment plans by doing the following: 

• Utilizing comprehensive assessments
• Identifying client goals 
• Customizing therapeutic modalities 
• Offering medication management 
• Addressing sensory and environment considerations 
• Enhancing coping skills
• Offering family and social support
• Gradually exposing clients to triggers 
• Offering practical support adhering to treatment 
• Comprehensive aftercare planning 

An individualized approach to client care improves the effectiveness of addiction treatment for clients with ADHD. According to the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, “The premise is that individual differences are likely to exist in the effects of treatments and that if those individual differences can be predicted, they can be used to select the most effective treatment for a particular individual.” Tailored care plans reduce the risk of relapse. The dedicated professionals at Driftwood Recovery educate clients and their loved ones on the various treatment options to ensure they make informed decisions about their care. 

Being Mindful of Co-Occurring Conditions to Better Serve Clients

Co-occurring conditions may interfere with rehabilitation, making it more difficult for healthcare professionals to treat clients. Individuals with SUD and ADHD may have other co-occurring conditions affecting their ability to adhere to treatment programs. Being mindful of all active disorders and underlying issues ensures that addiction and mental health professionals provide appropriate treatment options to meet each client’s unique needs. 

Healthcare Professionals Can Adjust Treatment Programs to Support Clients With ADHD

Treatment programs should meet clients’ needs by anticipating and addressing issues affecting client engagement. Healthcare professionals often use an integrative approach to care and collaboration to ensure clients can access essential support. 

Some potential accommodations that addiction and mental health professionals provide to clients with ADHD include the following: 

• Allowing movement or breaks during therapy 
• Breaking therapy down into shorter sessions 
• Supplementing treatment with written or visual instructions and guidelines 
• Adjusting expectations and treating clients with compassion if they struggle with memory issues or focus
• Teaching effective strategies for emotional regulation
• Recognizing and addressing impulsivity during relapse prevention education 
• Teaching time management strategies 
• Allowing for greater flexibility in treatment sessions 

Healthcare professionals work with each client to determine what symptoms or side effects of their ADHD may need to be addressed through accommodations or other forms of support. 

How Do Professionals at Driftwood Recovery Treat Clients With ADHD?

Individuals with co-occurring SUD and ADHD benefit from tailored care focused on both conditions. According to The American Journal on Addictions, “Given the common co-occurrence of ADHD with SUD, clinicians working with patients with SUD must be proficient in the identification and treatment of ADHD.” The staff members at Driftwood Recovery treat ADHD using a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies. 

Preparing Clients for Lasting Sobriety With Comprehensive Aftercare Planning

Clients with ADHD often struggle to manage cravings, everyday stressors, and intrusive thoughts. Healthcare professionals improve the effectiveness of treatment and help clients continue making progress in their healing journey by developing comprehensive aftercare plans. Staff prepare clients for long-term recovery by educating them in the realities of recovery from addiction with ADHD. 

Some of the factors clients and clinicians must consider during aftercare planning include: 

• Greater risk of impulsive relapse during continuing care 
• Need for increased accountability and frequent check-ins 
• Greater risk of boredom leading to relapse 
• Need for structured routines 

The experts at Driftwood Recovery work together to ensure that clients feel confident and prepared for long-term sobriety by providing detailed aftercare plans and referrals to additional resources. 

ADHD affects everyone differently. Some individuals may not need additional accommodations to successfully participate in structured treatment. However, other clients may require therapy, prescription medications, or other treatments to control symptoms of ADHD during rehabilitation and aftercare. ADHD cannot be “cured” and must be managed long-term. Healthcare professionals use their experience and expertise to help clients and their families navigate recovery. Driftwood Recovery treats clients with ADHD and other co-occurring disorders using a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies. The personalized approach improves treatment outcomes and ensures clients have the ability to focus on their treatments. To learn more about our facility, programs, and treatments, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.

Every client has different needs and expectations during treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health issues. Healthcare professionals must determine the best ways to meet each client’s needs while following strict policies and procedures to maintain treatment quality. Clients benefit from tailored treatment plans that successfully address their current conditions and any underlying health factors affecting their recovery. Staff members at Driftwood Recovery prioritize balancing client needs with program goals. 

Setting Realistic Treatment Expectations

Individuals participating in treatment may have unachievable personal goals for their recovery. Healthcare professionals educate clients and their loved ones to ensure they set realistic expectations about treatment. Understanding what to expect from therapy sessions, program activities, and other aspects of treatment prepares clients for each stage of recovery. 

Some of the ways medical professionals set realistic expectations with clients include: 

• Explaining the treatment process step-by-step in easy-to-understand language 
• Discussing potential challenges or setbacks with clients and their families
• Setting clear and achievable short-term or long-term goals
• Providing honest timelines for recovery and explaining the effectiveness of treatment 
• Ensuring clients understand their role in the treatment process 
• Using real-world examples to illustrate potential treatment outcomes
• Regularly checking client progress and adjusting outcome expectations 

Professionals use these tools and tactics to ensure clients feel comfortable with the treatment process and fully understand the various potential outcomes. According to the Journal of Emergencies, Trauma, and Shock, “Understanding patients’ expectations can enhance their satisfaction level [. . .]. Studies have shown that as much as 70% of litigation relates to real or perceived problems involving physician communications, which influences patients’ expectations.” Setting realistic expectations reduces stress on staff members and creates a better treatment experience for clients. 

The Importance of Balancing Client Needs

Balancing client needs with the goals of healthcare programs does the following: 

• Promotes individualized and consistent client care 
• Enhances client engagement in the treatment process 
• Builds trust and shows respect to clients and their loved ones 
• Encourages better adherence to treatment plans
• Reduces burnout for healthcare professionals 
• Promotes ethical practices 
• Increases program credibility and quality 
• Supports sustainable recovery

Healthcare experts learn to effectively identify and address client needs using their expertise and the many therapeutic tools available. Driftwood Recovery uses a wide range of modalities to ensure each client receives the care, guidance, and support they need to heal. Finding the best treatment for each individual reduces strain on staff members and ensures programs succeed in helping clients achieve long-term sobriety and positive mental health. 

Meeting Clients Where They Are Today

Part of working in healthcare involves meeting clients where they are today and providing them with the resources and tools to move forward in their healing journey. Therapists and other experts work together to assess clients, identify their needs, and offer practical solutions to help them recover from the effects of SUD or mental health issues. Treatment programs provide clients with progressive stages of recovery, allowing them to slowly regain control of their lives through skill development and structured support. 

What Does Balancing Client Needs Mean?

Balancing client needs may seem complicated due to the many potential factors influencing client recovery and health. However, creating a balance between client needs and workplace expectations often develops naturally in a therapeutic relationship. For example, therapists use their skills to help clients identify areas of their lives they can change to improve their mental health, assisting them in moving through the various stages of healing within the timeframe of their treatment program. A balance between program goals and personal growth is critical to ensuring client safety and health. 

Balancing Client Needs at Driftwood Recovery

Driftwood Recovery prioritizes the needs of clients and their loved ones. Collaboration between professionals is essential to ensure clients receive consistent care throughout every level of rehabilitation. Staff members go above and beyond to ensure clients feel supported, heard, and understood throughout every stage of treatment. 

Some of the ways professionals balance client needs with program goals include: 

• Maintaining honest and empathetic communication throughout treatment 
• Respecting client autonomy
• Adjusting plans as necessary to accommodate client needs
• Providing information on various support resources for treatment and aftercare 

Driftwood Recovery offers flexibility and tailored treatment plans to ensure clients feel confident managing their condition independently during ongoing recovery. Client confidence improves the effectiveness of treatment programs and reduces stress on healthcare professionals. 

Healthcare Professionals Have an Obligation to Meet Program Goals

Professionals are obligated to succeed at filling their roles within an organization. In most cases, this involves ensuring treatment programs meet quality expectations. Understanding and fulfilling client needs within the confines of treatment programs allows clinicians to build deeper connections with clients and provide the best possible outcomes for individuals in recovery. Experts at Driftwood Recovery understand the importance of creating a personalized and balanced approach to client care that ensures clients feel comfortable with their progress while meeting program goals. 

Treatment programs have to meet clear organizational goals and expectations to succeed. Healthcare professionals must work hard to achieve these goals while ensuring client health, safety, and comfort. Collaboration between clinicians and clients sets the foundation for a healthy, balanced therapeutic relationship. Setting realistic expectations with clients and their families and educating individuals in recovery facilitates program success. Driftwood Recovery uses evidence-based and alternative holistic therapies to support clients and ensure clinicians adhere to local, state, and federal regulations. Maintaining effective rehabilitation programs that follow legal guidelines improves treatment outcomes for individuals with substance use disorder or mental health issues. To learn more about our programs, policies, and staff, call us today at (512) 759-8330.

Some clients participating in treatment programs for substance use disorder (SUD) or mental health issues struggle to connect with the treatment process. Strengthening the client-clinician relationship improves client engagement and ensures treatment adherence, reducing stress on healthcare professionals. The experts at Driftwood Recovery understand that helping clients stay engaged in treatment creates better outcomes. Staff members must build trust with clients, families, and communities to effectively provide high-quality care. 

Why Is Client Engagement Essential?

Clients actively participating in treatment programs often report fewer long-term symptoms and better overall outcomes. People who feel engaged with their care team and the recovery process will likely remain motivated long-term to make essential lifestyle changes. 

Client engagement is essential because it does the following: 

• Encourages treatment adherence 
• Empowers clients to actively participate in treatment 
• Enhances collaboration between clients and clinicians 
• Increases client knowledge about treatment and recovery 
• Decreases stress on healthcare professionals 
• Results in better quality care
• Reduces the risk of miscommunication 
• Creates a stronger relationship between clients and clinicians

Studies have shown that “[e]ffectively engaging patients in their care is essential to improve health outcomes, improve satisfaction with the care experience, reduce costs, and even benefit the clinician experience.” Staff at Driftwood Recovery use evidence-based and alternative holistic therapies to ensure clients remain informed and engaged in their treatment. 

Helping Clients Stay Engaged Reduces Strain on Staff

Staff members who constantly work to keep clients following treatment guidelines are more likely to feel stressed and under increased pressure. Clients who voluntarily adhere to program rules and work to achieve their recovery goals cause less strain on programs and individual staff members. 

Keeping clients engaged in their treatment programs does the following: 

• Improves overall client health 
• Decreases the risk of relapse
• Enhances communication and collaboration 
• Empowers clients and encourages self-responsibility 
• Optimizes program resources
• Streamlines program workflows
• Fosters trust between clients and clinicians 
• Creates a positive environment for healing and personal growth 

According to the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), “Every day, clinicians and practices embrace new technologies, discover ways to improve care, and find opportunities for meaningful patient connection.” The relationships healthcare professionals build with clients can save lives “[b]ecause engaged patients have the knowledge, skills, ability, and willingness to manage their health and care and to act on clinicians’ recommendations.” Treatment programs at Driftwood Recovery help clients and clinicians develop essential tools for lasting change by engaging clients in every aspect of treatment, including care planning.

Helping Clients Stay Engaged Through Every Stage of Treatment

Most clients participate in multiple levels of care, each with unique challenges and expectations for healthcare professionals. Experts in addiction recovery and mental health help clients remain engaged as they transition through the various levels of care by providing emotional support, skill development, and positive reinforcement. Consistency and structure are essential in rehabilitation programs. Driftwood Recovery uses a multidisciplinary approach to client care, ensuring clients and clinicians receive the support they need for a positive treatment experience. 

Some of the ways healthcare professionals help clients stay engaged throughout treatment include: 

• Regular progress check-ins
• Providing constructive feedback and guidance 
• Personalizing treatment plans
• Using motivational interviewing (MI) to encourage active participation 
• Celebrating small successes and significant milestones
• Incorporating engaging activities into treatment plans
• Providing psychoeducation, relapse prevention, and other forms of education
• Offering access to peer support groups and community activities 
• Maintaining transparency and honest communication 
• Setting realistic treatment goals and expectations 

Everyone benefits when staff members work closely with clients to meet their needs and treatment goals. Clinicians and support staff ensure clients establish and maintain sobriety and positive mental health during recovery. 

Helping Clients Stay Engaged at Driftwood Recovery

Driftwood Recovery professionals use many methods to increase client engagement, including peer, community, and family support. Staff work closely with clients to determine how best to support their recovery and promote accountability. Clients who practice self-accountability and mindfulness are more likely to engage with treatment services. Therapists and other professionals provide clients with the necessary tools to develop these skills.

Some of the ways healthcare professionals ensure clients remain engaged at Driftwood Recovery include: 

• Working closely with friends and family to ensure clients have a safe and nurturing home environment 
• Providing comprehensive treatment and aftercare plans 
• Educating clients to ensure they understand the importance of following through with treatment and continuing care 

Clinicians who find positive ways to engage clients in treatment can reduce strain on various departments and improve overall workplace satisfaction. 

Creating Personalized Care Plans Improves Treatment Quality

Personalized care plans offer greater adaptability and make it easier for healthcare professionals to keep clients focused on treatment and long-term recovery. Personalized care allows clients to take advantage of in-person, telehealth, and community-based resources during treatment and aftercare, reducing the risk of relapse and improving overall wellness. Driftwood Recovery also offers referrals to outside services for clients needing additional support to remain engaged in treatment programs. 

The medical field is high-stress, and many healthcare professionals struggle to manage daily stressors while providing effective client care. Clients and clinicians benefit when healthcare programs use evidence-based and holistic therapies or techniques to engage clients in treatment. Client engagement reduces some of the stress on healthcare professionals by improving the effectiveness of treatment services. Driftwood Recovery uses community activities, complementary treatments, integrative care, personalized treatment plans, and other services to enhance client engagement. Collaboration and healthy communication between clients and clinicians reduces pressure on staff and workplace stress. To learn more about our programs and how our experts navigate challenges in client care, call us today at (512) 759-8330.

Work and school are important aspects of a person’s life. We spend much of our lives in school, with many choosing to continue to do so after they become adults. Of course, work is needed to function as a member of society, so it too is very important. Struggling with an addiction or other serious mental health condition can wreak havoc on a person’s ability to participate in either successfully. This leads to people dropping out of school or being fired from their jobs, which can cause their addiction to spiral further. Addiction is demoralizing enough that those who struggle with it may feel they can never return to work and school, even after treatment.

The truth is that anyone can return to work and school after addiction treatment. Returning to activities that keep you busy and give you personal satisfaction is essential for continuous recovery. When it comes to work and school, such a task can make some alumni nervous. It’s especially true if they fear that they may be triggered into a relapse. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery, every client is given training on how to protect their recovery once they return to work and school. Although it may be challenging at first, alumni can and do achieve success in the goals they set. 

To be successful is to recognize what these challenges may be and then take the steps to navigate them bravely.

What Sort of Challenges Can an Alumni Face in Work and School?

Life after addiction treatment can be fraught with unique challenges and pressures. Both work and school can be highly stressful, especially during crunch times. Schools, especially universities, often have issues with substance use on campus. Some students, especially younger ones, assume that substance use and experimentation are all part of the campus experience. Work may also push substance use in the form of team meetings in bars or hosting events with alcohol present. The pressure to fit in can be very high, especially when people question your sobriety.

Some of these challenges may be what triggered the substance abuse in the first place. Being around these triggers again can be psychologically difficult. It can be serious enough to trigger a craving or even a relapse if the alumnus is not vigilant. It’s tempting for some to avoid this problem altogether by not returning to work and school. Isolating oneself like this is never the solution and can only worsen mental health.

The best way to tackle these challenges is to utilize professional help, such as the assistance found at Driftwood Recovery.

Professional Treatment for Professional Results

Driftwood Recovery works to ensure that alumni succeed and continue to do so after treatment is complete. This involves a combination of evidence-based therapies and extensive skill training. Each client is assessed upon enrolling at Driftwood Recovery, ensuring that everyone receives an individualized treatment plan. This allows professionals to identify a client’s strengths and weaknesses. If a client has difficulty standing up to peer pressure, they will be trained in how to best navigate the situation. Craving management, relapse prevention, and other programs help clients develop the skills needed to protect their sobriety.

This is all paired with quality addiction treatment. Driftwood Recovery uses common therapies such as psychotherapy and assisted detox to aid in recovery. Clients also have access to holistic therapies to round out their care, such as art therapy and therapeutic recreation.

Together, therapy and training can help clients return to work and school with confidence. However, there is another aspect of treatment that offers alumni a means to further protect their recovery. 

Returning to Work and School With Support

Peer support is important for recovery. This is because peers help alumni remain accountable for their actions and provide understanding companionship. A person who has never experienced addiction may not truly understand the challenges that alumni may experience. Fellow alumni, however, do understand what you are going through. That’s why Driftwood Recovery encourages the creation of healthy peer support networks. Opportunities to strengthen friendships and workshop skills can also be found in the alumni program. Working together with peers ensures a smooth return to work and school.

Alumni can also find continued support at Driftwood Recovery. Completing treatment doesn’t mean that alumni no longer need help now or won’t need it in the future. Alumni always have a place to return to should work and school become overwhelming. With professionals standing by, alumni can get the advice they need to make healthy choices while navigating work and school.

Returning to work and school is possible for anyone, provided that they are willing to accept professional help. Recovery is a continuous journey that can have many ups and downs. Understanding that help is always available makes facing the return to work and school less stressful, especially at Driftwood Recovery.

Recovering from addiction is a continuous process that requires active participation and work. Part of recovery is returning to normalcy with new tools and coping skills at your disposal. For many, this means returning to work and school. Doing so can be terrifying, especially if someone fears triggering a relapse. However, with the right support, anyone can easily participate in school or the workforce. At Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients receive continuous alumni support that helps them navigate the difficulties and stress of life. With support and encouragement, alumni can succeed at any goal they meet. To learn more about continued care and support at Driftwood Recovery, call (512) 759-8330 today.