Identifying Valium Addiction Symptoms and Available Treatments

This article will discuss how to identify the signs of valium addiction, the symptoms, and available treatments. Read on to learn more!

While valium can be helpful for those who need it, it can also be addictive if used improperly or for an extended period. This article will be beneficial for identifying valium addiction symptoms and available treatments. Understanding the signs and seeking help can lead to a successful recovery and improved quality of life.

What Is Valium?

Valium is a brand name for the medication diazepam, a benzodiazepine drug used to treat various conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures. It also helps to reduce nervous tension, panic disorders, and anxiety and proves useful in alcohol withdrawal and when used as a muscle relaxant. Valium can also create a pleasant feeling thanks to its therapeutic effects, especially for people who used to struggle with anxiety, emotional pain, and panic attacks. And this is where it easily leads to addiction.

Using Valium, and It’s Side Effects

As indicated previously, valium use can create a pleasurable feeling of calm. It works by slowing down the chemical messages sent by the central nervous system. And this helps the patient or user to experience more calm, feel less stressed and tensed, and gain better composure. 

Regarding its side effects, there are several warning signs to look out for, as valium lasts longer in the body. Some of these warning signs include;

  • Vision trouble
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Slurred speech
  • Constipation
  • Tremors
  • Confusion, 
  • Depression
  • Vertigo

These warning signs do not necessarily indicate a sign of addiction. However, failing to acknowledge them can cause these signs to worsen over time, especially when issues of misuse, increasing dosage, and drug tolerance set in. when a prescribed valium user begins to develop higher tolerance, they may experience more side effects, including the following:

  • Restlessness
  • Behavioral changes
  • Agitation 
  • Loss of appetite
  • Psychosis
  • Hallucinations
  • Incontinence
  • Skin reactions

Valium Abuse and Signs

Valium abuse refers to the non-medical use of the prescription drug diazepam, which is the active ingredient in valium. This abuse occurs when individuals take more of the drug than prescribed or take it without a prescription. It can also involve taking the drug in ways other than as directed, such as crushing and snorting the pills. If you or someone you know is struggling with Valium abuse, it is important to seek help from a medical professional. But what are the signs to look out for?

At first, you may hardly notice any sign. But over time, the following red flags or signs will begin to show:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Extreme sleepiness
  • Vision disturbances
  • Compromised judgment
  • Increased risk-taking
  • Panic episodes
  • Attempt to take valium with other drugs like alcohol
  • Attempts to stop taking valium
  • Seeking pills from others
  • Shopping for doctors

Valium Addiction and Effective Treatment

Valium addiction can be difficult to break free from once it gets its hold on a patient, especially without professional assistance. Even worse, trying to quit after an extended period of valium addiction can be life-threatening. And that’s why addicts need to seek help from a treatment program facility in the presence of medical supervision. 

If you’re not sure whether valium addiction has set in, here are some indicators that suggest dependency. 

  • Escalation: An addict usually risks increasing their dosage, seeking higher effects as their demand increases. They may also begin experimenting with other methods of taking the drug, for example, snorting, injection, and combining with other drugs.
  • Deceiving: Valium usage demands a level of secrecy, which makes an addict resort to deceiving those around them with the hope of not being found out. And this makes the addicts very difficult to understand or pin down. 
  • Neglect: Valium addicts will start neglecting their health, hygiene, grooming, and wellness as their attention shifts to finding ways to secure valium. 
  • Accumulation: A valium addict may start spending large amounts of money to accumulate enough valium. That may include stealing money from others or borrowing themselves into serious debt. 

Find Help with Valium Addiction

Valium addiction leads to broken families, unhealthy relationships, and ruined lives each year. But through effective, evidence-based treatment like supervised detox, residential treatment, etc., addicts can start a journey to sobriety and healthy living. 

  • Residential treatment: An addict will benefit from a dedicated facility to promote wellness, sobriety, and, more importantly, complete recovery. 
  • Valium detox: Formal and supervised valium detox procedures can help addicts regain control of their lives. This helps particularly when an addict begins to go through the difficult withdrawal stage. 
  • Outpatient program and continued care: With the help of continued after-treatment, a former addict can maintain their recovery over an extended period with the help of therapy, medications, and regular revisits to the treatment facility. 

A simple medicine like valium can quickly lead to a monstrous addiction. But with the help of compassionate experts and treatment programs, an addict can reclaim their lives.

What Are the Long Term Consequences of Chronic Alcoholism?

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 3 million deaths each year are attributed to alcohol consumption. Learn more here.

Chronic alcoholism is a serious issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Many have this addiction but struggle to overcome it alone. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 3 million deaths each year are directly attributed to alcohol consumption, making it a leading cause of death and disability globally. Chronic alcoholism can have a profound impact on your physical health and mental health. It can also have other long-term effects. So, what are the long term consequences of chronic alcoholism? Below are a few.

Liver Damage

One of the most significant and well-known consequences of chronic alcoholism is liver damage. The liver is responsible for breaking down and processing alcohol, and over time, excessive consumption can scar and damage the liver, leading to a medical condition called cirrhosis. As cirrhosis progresses, the liver’s ability to function properly is severely diminished, causing various health problems, including:

  • jaundice
  • fatigue
  • abdominal pain
  • Swelling

In advanced stages, cirrhosis may lead to total liver failure, which can be life-threatening.

In addition to cirrhosis, chronic alcoholism can also trigger other liver-related health problems, such as:

  • fatty liver disease
  • alcoholic hepatitis
  • liver cancer

These conditions give rise to various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin disorders. According to medical reports, it is difficult to determine the exact number of people who live with liver damage due to alcoholism. However, it is estimated that millions worldwide are affected by alcoholic liver disease, directly resulting from chronic excessive alcohol consumption.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 140 million people worldwide have alcohol use disorders. Of these, a significant proportion is likely to develop liver damage. Chronic alcoholism is a leading cause of liver disease and liver-related deaths, and alcoholic liver disease is increasing in many countries. As expected, alcohol-induced liver damage can be prevented through the reduction or cessation of alcohol consumption. More so, early medical intervention in the initial stages of the disease can make a difference.

Brain Damage

Another serious consequence of chronic alcoholism is brain damage. Alcohol is toxic to the brain; over time, excessive consumption can damage its structure and function. Chronic alcoholism often leads to a range of brain-related problems, including:

  • memory loss
  • difficulty thinking and concentrating
  • impaired judgement and coordination
  • changes in mood and behavior. 

In addition to these cognitive and behavioral problems, chronic alcoholism is responsible for a range of neurological disorders, including Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a type of memory disorder caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). This syndrome can cause severe memory issues, confusion, and other cognitive and behavioral disorders. The effects of chronic alcoholism can be far-reaching and profoundly impact a person’s health, well-being, and quality of life. It’s prudent to seek help if you’re facing challenges with this addiction, considering the dire consequences that could arise if you don’t adopt helpful habits to manage your addiction. You will find it helpful to seek a private treatment center offering various treatment services. For example, opting for a partial hospitalization works well if you still want to go about your daily work routines. On the other hand, if your handlers believe your addiction requires an intensive-outpatient option, you may want to consider that too.

Cardiovascular Issues

Chronic alcoholism often has serious consequences for a person’s cardiovascular health. Alcohol is a potent stimulant that can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. The risks of an increased chance of developing heart disease and stroke are incredibly high. Chronic alcoholism also causes damage to the heart muscle, leading to a condition called alcoholic cardiomyopathy, which triggers heart failure.

In addition to these cardiovascular problems, chronic alcoholism tends to increase the risk of blood clots. In many cases, this has progressed into deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. These conditions present serious symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. If left unmanaged, irreversible heart problems set in, with an increased fatality rate. The sooner you seek help for this addiction, the better your chances of full recovery.

Conclusion

Although chronic alcoholism takes time to develop, it is undoubtedly a serious issue with far-reaching consequences for a person’s health and well-being. These include cardiovascular problems and brain and liver damage. Fortunately, there is help as long as you are willing to get back onto the road to recovery, so keep this in mind. Suppose you have parents or other loved ones struggling with chronic alcoholism. There is hope, as some centers offer tailored programs for such groups. 

Where Can I Find Resources On Substance Abuse?

Alcohol abuse and addiction are prevalent issues in many communities. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reveals that in 2019, an estimated 14.5 million adults aged 18 or older had Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the past year. This statistic highlights the need for effective resources and support for individuals struggling with alcohol abuse and addiction. Whether you’re just starting your journey to recovery or asking, ‘Where can I find resources on substance Abuse?,’ the resources outlined here can help. 

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

The NIAAA is a government organization and is part of the National Institutes of Health. It was established to research alcohol-related issues and to provide information and resources to the public on:

  •  the dangers of excessive drinking
  •  the effects of alcohol on the body
  •  treatment options for individuals who are struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction

Their main functions revolve around the following:

  • research
  • information & education
  • treatment referral and support
  • public awareness campaigns

How does the NIAAA operate?

The NIAAA conducts and funds research on a wide range of alcohol-related topics, including alcohol addiction, the effects of the substance on the body and brain, and the effectiveness of different treatment options. Their research findings are used to develop effective treatment strategies while raising awareness about the dangers. Meanwhile, the information and education function provides a wealth of information and resources by issuing fact sheets, brochures, and online resources for public awareness.

Meanwhile, their treatment referral and support function primarily help individuals seeking help for alcohol abuse or addiction. They can guide individuals to find treatment programs and support groups in a convenient local area. The NIAAA will also ensure that you are aware of the different treatment options available wherever they suggest. As the name suggests, NIAAA’s public awareness campaigns are vibrant parts of this organization. So, this institution is worth considering if you’re struggling with addiction and need help.

Local rehabilitation centers

Where Can I Find Resources On Substance Abuse?

They are popularly known as rehab facilities, and a typical example is the Indiana Center for Recovery. They provide treatment and support to individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. These centers offer many services, including detoxification, counseling, therapy, and aftercare, to help individuals overcome their addiction and achieve long-term recovery. Rehabilitation facilities vary in size, scope, and approach to treatment, but most provide a comprehensive and structured program. The purpose is to help individuals address addiction’s physical, psychological, and social aspects.

Treatment at a local rehabilitation center

Treatment may include individual and group therapy, medical and psychiatric care, and various recreational and educational activities designed to promote recovery and healthy living. These local rehabilitation facilities often work with healthcare providers, support groups, and other institutions in the community to provide a comprehensive network of support for individuals in recovery. It often includes referrals to community-based resources, like support groups, job training programs, and housing assistance, to help people reintegrate into society and maintain their recovery over the long term. If you know someone struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction, it’s important to know that help is available. Sometimes, all people need is a facility that offers partial hospitalization to help them on this journey without staying at the facility.

Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.)

Alcoholics Anonymous is a non-profit and widely recognized support group for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Founded in 1935, A.A. has grown into a global organization with thousands of local chapters and millions of members worldwide. Alcoholics Anonymous aims to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety by providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can share your experiences. A.A. deliberately creates a non-judgmental environment where everyone feels comfortable telling their stories. More importantly, you will feel supported because each member can identify with your struggles.

How does A.A. function?

A.A. holds regular meetings, often daily or weekly, where members can come together to share their experiences and support each other. Meetings are open to anyone dealing with alcohol addiction and seeking help. The group has the 12 Steps, which provides a roadmap for recovery. These steps help you understand and overcome your addiction and develop a supportive network of peers and a strong spiritual foundation.

Finding a sponsor is crucial when you join any A.A. group across the country. That is a more experienced member who can provide guidance and support throughout the recovery process. Sponsors can offer advice and support and provide accountability. There is always a sense of confidentiality within A.A. groups. That is why many individuals that join are encouraged to maintain anonymity and respect for others. Unlike the NIAAA, Alcoholics Anonymous is a self-supporting group. 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Where Can I Find Resources On Substance Abuse?

This branch of the Health and Human Services Department in the U.S. was established to improve the quality and availability of substance abuse and mental health treatment services. SAMHSA’s mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities and to help individuals struggling with these issues get the needed help and support to recover.

SAMHSA Resources

The organization maintains a confidential National Helpline, where you can get information, support, and referrals to local treatment services. SAMHSA also offers various online resources, including information and tools for individuals, families, and healthcare providers, to help support recovery and improve access to treatment.

Conclusion

It’s crucial for individuals and families affected by alcohol abuse and addiction to know that help is available. Whether through support groups, rehabilitation outpatient centers, or government organizations, numerous resources on substance abuse can provide the support and guidance necessary for a successful recovery. By seeking the right resources and support, you can take the first step towards a healthier, happier life free from alcohol abuse.

Am I An Addict? How To Know If You’re Addicted To Drugs

Am I An Addict? How To Know If You're Addicted To Drugs

Addiction is unfortunately something that is becoming increasingly more common. The pressures of everyday life coupled with the easy accessibility of substances such as drugs and alcohol make for a dangerous combination. Addiction isn’t something to be ashamed of and you’d be surprised at just how many people suffer from it. But you might be wondering, am I an addict? How do I know?

Often, admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery, yet it can be hard to see if you are addicted or if you’re simply struggling with the stress of everyday ups and downs. 

You Might Not See It Coming

Stress is something we all face and if people find themselves on a downward spiral, they can often pull themselves out of it, recognizing the signs. Yet if it becomes harder to get yourself out of the rut and you find you turn to substances to help you cope, this could be a sign that you have an addiction.

Turning to drugs, alcohol or other methods of coping can be very detrimental and what might start as an innocent coping mechanism can soon get out of control and you can find it harder than ever to be the person you once were. A vicious cycle, it’s important to spot the signs and get the help you need sooner rather than later. If you find yourself looking into a mirror and wondering “do I have an addiction?” you are making the first step to recovery and getting back to your usual life.

Am I An Addict? How To Know If You're Addicted To Drugs

Understand The Basics Of Addiction. 

Addiction is defined as a neuropsychological disorder in which you have a persistent urge to partake in a particular behavior that tends to cause harm. This tends to be taking drugs, drinking alcohol or binge eating for example.

Rather than being considered something that the person can control, it’s an involuntary action that gets progressively worse. The more you indulge yourself and become reliant on the substances in question, the more you need in order to reach that high it gives.

Your Brain And Addiction

The wirings of the brain change the way you perceive memory, motivation and reward making it nearly impossible to walk away from whatever it is that you are addicted to. You could be addicted to substances such as alcohol, cigarettes, medication or drugs, or you might have a behavioral addiction. This could mean you’re addicted to things such as work, gambling or spending money. Both can have a harmful impact on your everyday life and lead you to neglect things that were important to you in the past. 

Most Common Addiction Red Flag

One of the first ways to find out if you’re addicted is to recognize if you’re reliant on something you weren’t before. Do you find yourself going out of your way to fulfil a craving? And is it never quite enough, you always want more? Do you find you need to hide what you’re doing from others? Do you find yourself isolated from your friends and family? These can all be signs of addiction. 

To get help with an addiction, speak to us and we can help. We focus on everything from drug rehab and alcohol rehab to addiction treatment of all kinds.

5 Alcohol Addiction Coping Mechanisms to Help in an Addiction Treatment Center

If decide to go to rehab for alcohol addiction, you’ll learn new coping mechanisms to replace your dependence on alcohol. Learn more here.

People start using alcohol for a variety of reasons. Some use it to cope with difficult emotions or stressful situations while others do it to escape external pressures or trauma. This is a good example of a negative or unhealthy coping mechanism. Using alcohol to escape or cope when things get difficult only ends up creating more problems for you and those around you and doesn’t address the issues you’re facing.

If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction and decide to go to rehab, you’ll learn new coping mechanisms to replace your dependence on alcohol. You’ll learn to uncover and examine the root cause of the addiction along with your triggers and stressors and also how to manage them without relying on alcohol.

One of the methods we integrate into addiction treatment programs such as partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient program at Evolve Indy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This is an evidence-based treatment method that helps people learn healthy coping mechanisms by helping them uncover the negative thought patterns that led to addiction and then work on replacing them with more positive ones. 

CBT helps clients to change their way of thinking while learning healthier ways to deal with their triggers, cravings, and emotions without depending on alcohol. These healthy coping mechanisms can help you get through tough situations or stressful days.

5 Alcohol Addiction Coping Mechanisms

Waiting to respond

Alcohol addiction makes you reckless and impulsive. As the addiction progresses, your behavior becomes more reactive often leading to aggressive outbursts or rash behavior such as lying or stealing and acting without forethought. During alcohol treatment, you’ll learn how to wait before responding especially in tough or stressful situations.

Whenever you feel pressured or rushed, take a moment to breathe and clear your mind before making a decision. This will help you to address the situation rationally and with a level head. It will also go a long way toward helping you manage your emotions and maintain healthier relationships.

Keeping yourself busy

When you’re addicted to alcohol, the addiction takes over your life. Most of your time is spent on buying and drinking alcohol then recovering from the effects of drinking and hiding the habit from others. As you work towards sobriety, you learn to replace those old habits with new better ones.

For instance, you can spend your time in more beneficial ways such as learning new skills, or sports, writing a journal, art or dancing, volunteering, etc. Keeping yourself busy with positive activities lifts your spirits, makes you feel proud of your achievements and helps keep your mind away from alcohol and drinking.

Practicing self-care

Taking care of yourself physically, mentally and emotionally helps avoid relapse. Self-care can be as simple as eating nutritious, balanced meals, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly. These activities keep the body healthy and feeling good.

Self-care can also involve developing healthy friendships and setting boundaries that help you maintain mental peace. It also includes knowing your triggers and limits and walking away when you need to. It can also mean taking care of your mental health by not overthinking things or stressing out over small issues.

Practicing mindfulness meditation

Mindfulness meditation means grounding or centering yourself in the present moment. Through techniques such as regulated breathing, you learn to observe and accept your emotions, internal reactions and thoughts without judgment. 

By practicing mindfulness meditation, you learn to relax your body and mind, leading to better self-control, improved concentration and clarity in your life and reduced stress and anxiety. It also helps you cope with triggers or work through any painful feelings that may have led to alcohol addiction in the past. 

Mastering this coping mechanism will not only help you manage and balance your emotions but also help you develop a healthier more flexible approach to life.

Building a support network

Addiction is often an isolating experience. You can end up feeling alone even if you’re in recovery. Part of alcohol addiction treatment involves helping you develop a network of reliable and sober peers. In rehab you’ll participate in group therapy sessions where you’ll learn to interact and open up to people who are in the same situation you’re in. 

This experience can be carried on after rehab through attending sobriety support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous. These groups offer support, understanding and accountability to help you stay on track with your recovery.

Additionally, you can also receive support from your friends and family. They can help create a friendly environment at home to support your recovery. They provide further support by attending family therapy sessions with you where you can all learn to deal with issues as a family and fix relationships that were torn apart by addiction.

We Can Help

You don’t need to deal with addiction on your own. You can learn effective coping skills for alcohol addiction recovery at Evolve Indy. Through a combination of evidence-based treatment programs, individualized treatment and a holistic approach to alcohol treatment, you can overcome addiction and go on to live a sober life. Our addiction treatment center in Indiana offers both residential and outpatient treatment programs to suit our clients’ needs and we welcome people from all over the country.

Don’t wait for addiction to ruin your life. Contact us today and we’ll help you rebuild a sober, more productive life.

What Is Alcohol Brain Fog And How Can You Overcome It

Understanding the side effects of alcohol abuse is crucial for anyone looking to get treatment or quit drinking altogether. Alcohol abuse effects are wide-ranging and can cause both short-term and long-term problems. 

One of the lesser-known side effects of alcohol abuse is alcohol brain fog – a feeling of confusion, disorientation, and forgetfulness. While not all drinkers will experience brain fog, it is something to be aware of if you are a heavy drinker or find yourself drinking to excess regularly.

What Is Alcohol Brain Fog?

Alcohol brain fog is a condition that is often experienced by people who are recovering from alcohol addiction. It refers to the state of mental confusion and forgetfulness that occurs after drinking excessive amounts of alcohol for an extended period. 

This can affect your ability to focus, concentrate, think clearly, make decisions, and perform simple tasks. While brain fog can be experienced by regular drinkers and non-drinkers alike, it is most often associated with alcohol abuse.

The causes are not entirely clear, although there are many theories as to what might be causing it. Some suggest that heavy drinking leads to nutritional deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals and dehydration in the body, which directly impacts brain functioning. 

Others suggest that it results from long-term alcohol abuse and is caused due to damaged cells in the brain. Brain fog may also be caused due to the overwhelming feelings of withdrawal that can occur when someone stops drinking, which can also cause feelings of depression, anxiety, and confusion.

Regardless of the cause, alcohol brain fog is something that can be overcome with the right treatment and support.

How Can You Overcome Alcohol Brain Fog?

What Is Alcohol Brain Fog And How Can You Overcome It

Alcohol brain fog can be a terrifying experience for someone who is trying to overcome their alcohol addiction. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to reduce the symptoms of brain fog and improve your mental clarity and focus.

Healthy Withdrawal:

One of the best things that you can do is to engage in a healthy and gradual withdrawal from alcohol. This will allow your body time to recover, reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, and give your brain cells time to heal. 

An alcohol rehab program or alcohol treatment center can help you get started on a healthy detoxification withdrawal program and will provide the medical and emotional support you need to overcome your alcohol addiction.

Mental Health Support:

If you are experiencing heavy feelings of depression or anxiety, it is also important to seek out mental health support. This can include counseling, therapy, medication management sessions with a psychiatrist, or even attending an addiction treatment center for assistance on your journey to recovery. 

A patient’s mental health and well-being are critical to overcoming alcohol brain fog, as these issues can worsen your symptoms and make recovery even more difficult.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment:

If you find yourself struggling with alcohol brain fog, it is important to seek out effective addiction treatment. Treatments such as cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, or even motivational interviewing can help you learn how to overcome your addiction and improve your mental clarity. 

Alcohol brain fog is not something that should be taken lightly. If you are struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction and are experiencing mental confusion, lack of focus, or difficulty making decisions due to excessive drinking, it is important to seek out the help and support you need. 

At Evolve Indy, we strive to see our patients succeed in their journey to recovery from alcohol abuse and addiction.