Seeing the big picture of a sober lifestyle can be challenging at the beginning stages of a recovery journey. For many of those struggling with alcohol abuse or drug addiction, considering a life free of substances is daunting until skills are in place to understand how long-term sobriety can be applied to day-to-day life. At the Recovery Institute of Ohio, we believe that with support and the right resources, long-term sobriety does not have to be overwhelming! The truth is, it is simply another step on the healing journey.

Maintaining sobriety is a process, and at Drug Rehab Ohio, we ensure each of our patients is equipped with the tools needed for the part of the journey that they are on – from early recovery that includes detox and medical care, to long-term recovery which teaches coping skills and addresses mental health concerns. Our goal is to prepare our patients for whatever part of the journey they encounter next.

When it comes to long-term sobriety, sober living homes provide a tremendous resource that allows for support and guidance to prevent physical relapse, mental relapse, and develop skills for a lifetime of healthy decisions, and are often a crucial stepping stone for lifelong wellness and sobriety.

Long Term Sobriety: A Journey, Not a Destination

At Recovery Institute of Ohio, we believe in providing the resources and skills necessary for various parts of substance abuse treatment. Once an individual is sober, has mental and physical health needs cared for, and is addressing the root of their substance abuse issues, it is time to learn coping skills for long-term health and wellness.

Lifelong healing comes from being open to additional recovery opportunities as they arise. Instead of viewing sobriety as a journey an individual arrives at, we prefer to see sobriety as a continual work in progress that builds on the foundation of skills learned early in addiction treatment.

Utilizing Resources for Combating Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Resources such as AA or NA, community support groups, and sober living environments strengthen recovery efforts by allowing individuals to practice the skills they have learned in early recovery by connecting with like-minded individuals. This concept of camaraderie and friendship is helpful in holding each other accountable and creating connection – two mandatory aspects of long-term sobriety.

Skills for Long-term Sobriety

Sober living homes, such as those offered at the Recovery Institute of Ohio, provide a safe place to practice coping skills, be honest about mental health struggles, and create relationships that can be positive and uplifting during triggering situations. Some of the skills and benefits gained from participation in sober living homes include:

Increased Responsibility and Flexibility in a Safe, Sober Environment.

For those who do not have a reliable or supportive home life, sober living provides a welcoming place to practice coping skills and strengthen sobriety for long-term recovery. A sober life is challenging – but being surrounded by individuals who support your goals makes this lifestyle much easier to accommodate.

Access to 12 Step Programs and Other Support Groups

Developing positive routines and habits, such as attending 12 step programs or other support groups can provide tremendous help when an individual is faced with a triggering situation. These support groups allow individuals to voice concerns and lessons learned when combating alcohol and drug abuse.

An Uplifting, Sober Community

This is not a journey you must take alone! Connecting with others on a similar path, and sharing successes and struggles can be one of the most rewarding parts of long-term sobriety.

The Power of Community and a Sober Life

It has been said that it takes a village to raise a child. At Recovery Institute of Ohio, we believe it takes a community to truly heal. If you or a loved one is curious about the next steps necessary to experience long-term sobriety, reach out to us at any time to learn more about a recovery program that fits your needs.

We are happy to provide you with resources that are fit for the stage of recovery you or your loved one is currently in. For those who previously completed substance abuse treatment and are looking for a way to strengthen the skills learned in early recovery, sober living in Ohio may be an excellent solution.

Whatever part of the healing journey you find yourself on, the Recovery Institute of Ohio is here to walk beside you as you develop a healthy lifestyle. We look forward to connecting with you soon.

While addiction affects individuals in a variety of ways – one thing is certain: the most successful recovery programs integrate relapse prevention into the treatment. For most patients working to overcome substance abuse, a singular program is not enough for sustained sobriety. Instead, patients should focus on finding programs that gradually introduce them back into day-to-day life while helping them reach their physical and mental health goals. Physical relapse and emotional relapse are common when it comes to substance use. Prioritizing relapse prevention is a sustainable way to overcome these challenges.

At our Drug Rehab in Ohio, we help individuals not only overcome alcohol and drug abuse but develop strategies on how to maintain sobriety.

Solutions such as our intensive outpatient program prevent relapse by allowing patients to gradually step down in their level of care and return to their day-to-day life at a gentle speed. The result is a more thorough understanding of skills and coping mechanisms needed for a lifetime of healing.

Intensive Outpatient Programs for Substance Abuse Treatment

Services such as our intensive outpatient program allow individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction to start on their path to recovery or continue their journey after previously completing an inpatient treatment program or a partial hospitalization program. For those stepping down into an IOP, individuals can continue to receive care while exercising increased flexibility and responsibilities. This type of treatment balances the autonomy of day-to-day life with the structure and support found in drug rehab centers – and can help develop coping skills needed to prevent relapse in the future.

Like most skills, dealing with urges associated with drug and alcohol addiction in high-risk situations takes practice. Intensive outpatient programs allow individuals struggling with drug or alcohol use the opportunity to gain valuable educational and therapeutic skills for lasting recovery. This level of support can work wonders for those stepping into their new role as sober individuals in a world full of challenges and triggers.

Treatment Services and Treatment Programs that Assist in Relapse Prevention

Programs that highlight relapse prevention provide the tools individuals need to overcome triggers when they arise.

Relapse Prevention Services May Include:

• Individual therapy (including cognitive-behavioral treatment and motivational enhancement therapy)
• Group therapy or family therapy
• Art therapy, music therapy, and mindfulness-based relapse prevention
• Medical and mental health services, including medication management
• Relapse Prevention tools and treatment strategies
• Job readiness preparation
• Anger Management Courses
• 12 step programs and other support groups
• Life skills courses to develop positive coping skills
• Case management 
• And much more!

At Drug Rehab Ohio, our treatment programs focus on strategies that help individuals successfully integrate back into day-to-day life. With professional support at each level of the recovery journey for alcohol abuse and drug abuse, the Recovery Institute of Ohio can prioritize sustained sobriety and relapse prevention.

Maintaining Focus: How to Prioritize Relapse Prevention for Substance Abuse

At the start of any recovery journey, getting through the day without substance use may be the goal. However, as you become more and more accustomed to life without drug or alcohol addiction, long-term sobriety and mindfulness-based relapse prevention become a more manageable priority.

To successfully integrate relapse prevention, we recommend keeping these tips in mind while you continue your journey to sobriety:

Lean on Your Support System During Addiction Treatment

Whether it is through relapse prevention therapy, mental health support groups, sober living communities, or other resources, sharing your experiences and coping skills with those on a similar journey through drug or alcohol addiction can help prevent relapse.

Get Involved in Creating Your Relapse Prevention Plan

Being involved through volunteer opportunities, meaningful employment, or community outreach can be an incredible way to maintain sobriety. Remember – removing yourself from triggering or high-risk situations, and filling old habits with positive routines can help you find sobriety that lasts

Intensive Outpatient Treatment Programs

Programs like our intensive outpatient treatment allow for continued support, even when your inpatient program is complete. This allows you to fully develop coping skills, and be prepared when a triggering situation arises.

If you or one of your family members is ready to take the next step in relapse prevention for alcohol or drug abuse or has questions about what recovery program is the best fit for specific needs, reach out to us at any time. Our team of mental health and addiction specialists are here to help you find a solution that helps you put healing at the forefront.

There is a direct link between depression and substance use. If you or a loved one struggles with mental health challenges, you may be familiar with the draw towards substances to temporarily numb negative feelings. Conversely, individuals dealing with addiction may experience depression and anxiety due to the impact drugs and alcohol have on their lives. Unfortunately, many treatment options force individuals to choose between mental health assistance and addiction treatment.

At Drug Rehab Ohio, we prioritize treating mental health disorders right alongside substance abuse. We know that these conditions are often interdependent, and in order to break the hold of drug or alcohol abuse and depression, both challenges must be addressed. Programs such as Dual Diagnosis treatment acknowledge the correlation between drug addiction and depression and encourage physical and emotional healing for sustainable sobriety. 

If you are helping a family member or friend navigate recovery, consider these tips:

Help Them Understand the Link Between Mental Health and Addiction

Some studies estimate that as many as half of individuals who battle addiction are also battling a mental health challenge. Let your loved one know that if they are experiencing these challenges, they are not alone! Helping them understand the correlation will allow them to seek the appropriate treatment for their specific needs.

Drugs and Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism

For those with mental health disorders, drugs and alcohol are commonly consumed to self-medicate or self-soothe. Unfortunately, those relying on substances as a coping strategy often find regular use and increased tolerance as a door to addiction. If feelings associated with mental illness or trauma are not addressed, the individual will continue to rely on substances for relief until the root of the issue is resolved.

Depression as a Result of Substance Abuse

Some studies suggest that regular substance use can change the structure of the brain, increasing mental challenges, including depression. Furthermore, consistent or obsessive substance abuse is commonly associated with strained relationships, declining work performance, and poor physical health. These possible outcomes can lead to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression that are often not addressed in typical drug rehab centers.

With such a defined link between addiction and depression, the solution should be obvious – those who suffer from these challenges should receive treatment that addresses both issues simultaneously. These programs are becoming more widely available as the importance of addressing mental health becomes clear. At the Recovery Institute of Ohio, we provide a program that ensures mental health challenges are addressed during addiction rehabilitation.

Rehab Options: The Dual Diagnosis Treatment Difference

Dual Diagnosis treatment programs are curated to address the needs of patients who are struggling both with substance abuse and mental health concern. These programs are available to help individuals learn strategies that can help them navigate triggers and find ways of dealing with uncomfortable emotions without relying on drugs or alcohol. If you are helping a loved one navigate depression alongside their addiction, ensure they are aware of the Dual Diagnosis options.

Learn Positive Coping Strategies

Dual Diagnosis programs allow individuals to explore situations that may cause them to abuse drugs or alcohol, and develop healthy strategies to help them navigate difficult emotions. These strategies take into account a patient’s mental health history, as well as their addiction history, and can include creative and innovative ways for exploring the depths of emotion and trauma – including music and art therapy, individual and family therapy, and life skills classes.

Addressing the Root of Addiction and Depression

An individual who suffers from addiction may find themselves relapsing after their treatment. This is often the result of someone who learned how to get sober in rehab but did not learn positive strategies for managing their mental health. At the Recovery Institute of Ohio, we prioritize getting to the root of the issue and addressing not only addiction but the environment where addiction was able to take hold. In doing so, patients experience a more solid foundation to build their recovery and create lasting change.

Prioritize Sustainable Healing: Depression and Addiction Treatment

Long-term recovery should be the goal! Our Dual Diagnosis programs include elements that put lifelong recovery and sobriety at the forefront in treating the whole individual. We encourage patients to develop skills to help navigate depression and addiction when triggers arise.

Prioritizing Lasting Recovery

A key facet of sustainable recovery is developing a plan of action after drug and alcohol treatment. Through access to the 12 Step Program, housing assistance, job assistance, and case management, Dual Diagnosis programs put you or your loved one on the journey to a successful, lifelong recovery journey. Through participation in this program, patients not only learn skills that help navigate triggers but also develop an understanding of the bold, bright future available with a sober lifestyle.

If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, considering their mental health is a critical aspect of helping them get the help they need. Reach out to us at any time to speak to an addiction specialist who can help you and your loved one understand the link between substance abuse and depression. A meaningful life is possible, and with treatments such as a Dual Diagnosis program, patients can receive the help that caters directly to their needs.

Mental health has been a buzzword in recent years, and for good reason. With continued research, the scientific community is constantly learning how mental health has a significant impact on nearly every area of our life: from physical health to relationships, to how individuals interact within the community.

Oftentimes, mental health issues are buried deep beneath damaging coping mechanisms. A prime example of mental health disguised as “negative behavior” is addiction and substance abuse. At Drug Rehab Ohio, we make it a priority to treat the whole individual. This means we uncover the core cause behaviors in order to understand what is at the root of the addiction. It is only then can we provide adequate professional support that allows the individual to not only overcome addiction but to provide positive coping strategies for the associated mental illness. The combination of treatment for both addiction and mental concerns is known as Dual Diagnosis treatment.

At times, it can be challenging to determine if what you or a loved one are experiencing is simply a rough patch or a sign that professional help is needed. Read on to discover if it is time to make the first step in healing with professional mental health treatment in Ohio.

Sign 1: Your Mental Health Problems Interfere with your Physical Health

It is no secret that struggling with mental health issues can take its toll on your body. Side effects of severe depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD often go hand in hand with the side effects of addiction.

Physical side effects of co-occurring disorders may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Paranoia/anxious movement
• The abrupt change in moods
• Insomnia
• Nausea and vomiting

If you are regularly experiencing any of the above-listed symptoms, your mental health could be greatly impacting your physical health and it is time to seek help.

Sign 2: Your Coping Mechanism Interferes with your Relationships

Dual Diagnosis is incredibly common in the addiction world because misuse of drugs and alcohol can serve as a seemingly effective solution for combatting the symptoms of mental illness. However, most come to realize that this method of coping not only impacts their own lives but has a negative impact on the lives of those around them.

If you notice the following challenges in your relationships as a result of your mental illness or how you cope with the symptoms, it is time to seek help from a mental health professional.

Effects of substance and abuse and mental illness on relationships:

• Unable to maintain healthy relationships
• Distancing oneself from friends and colleagues
• Seeking out new experiences or friends who prioritize substance use
• Lying or hiding details of your life to friends and family
• Loved ones have expressed concern about your substance use or mental health

It is a natural defense mechanism to distance healthy relationships from your mental health issues or associated coping mechanisms. However, it is often these relationships that encourage individuals to seek help. If you notice strain in your relationships due to your struggles with mental health, it is time to get help from a professional.

Sign 3: Your Mental Health Conditions Interfere with your Community

At Drug Rehab Ohio, we believe that the community is an integral part of the journey to recovery. It inspires individuals to believe in something bigger than themselves, promotes responsibility, and provides a resource for individuals that encourages overall wellness and self-betterment.

However, those who struggle with mental health problems or addiction habitually remove themselves from their network during the time when community support is needed the most.

Signs of community withdrawal as a result of mental health struggles include:

• The inability to maintain meaningful employment
• Loss of interest in participating in a broader network (volunteer activities, social events, etc.)
• Refusal to participate in activities the individual previously enjoyed

Getting Professional Mental Health Services

Many individuals experience negative physical symptoms, relationship tension, and withdrawal from the community as a result of their mental struggles, and Dual Diagnosis programs provide a way to address these aspects in a professional setting.

Dual Diagnosis treatment includes:

• Guidance from addiction support groups and a supportive community
• Access to medical assistance, addiction specialists, psychiatric specialists, and substance abuse counselors
• Creation of a daily routine with a priority on mental and physical health and recovery
• Formation of new relationships that help support your addiction recovery
• Elimination of negative relationships from your life that may tempt your addiction and hurt your chances of recovery
• Support in a healthy environment away from distractions with daily substance abuse treatment to build consistency

If you or a loved one is considering whether or not it is time to seek professional help for their addiction associated with mental illness, Drug Rehab Ohio is here to guide and support you on this journey. You are not alone and our Dual Diagnosis program can help you navigate mental illness and develop positive coping mechanisms for a lifetime of sobriety.

OCD and Addiction

Obsessive thoughts and worries happen to everyone at some point or another. For example, most people will experience the sudden feeling that we’ve left the stove on or that the front door is unlocked.

However, if you suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), these thoughts can be relentless and mentally consuming, preventing you from completing your daily responsibilities. For instance, people with OCD are forced to go home several times before making it to their destination to make sure they have locked the door or turned off the television, etc. Sometimes, they’ll be compelled to thoroughly wash their hands over and over again to get rid of germs. 

These rituals and thoughts are time-consuming, intrusive, and debilitating. As a result, some people experience OCD to such an extent that they struggle to hold down a job, drop out of school, and isolate themselves from the rest of society.

It is important to remember that these compulsive behaviors are not simply somebody’s personality – they are symptoms of severe mental health issues.

Research suggests that OCD manifests in over 2% of the population every year and currently affects 3 million people in the United States alone. That being said, there’s a chance these statistics underestimate how common the disorder is within the community.

Typically, OCD symptoms will occur during childhood, usually between 8 and 12 years old. However, sometimes they’ll appear in the late teens or young adulthood.

Despite instances of OCD being significantly less than many other mental health disorders, the condition is a disability and can severely impact a person’s social life and general functioning.

Additionally, OCD is associated with rising rates of alcohol and drug abuse, which can exacerbate the disorder. Many individuals dealing with OCD who become addicted to substances will experience more severe compulsive symptoms. They may also appear self-destructive, act irrationally, and may become hospitalized if symptoms continue to escalate.

If OCD is diagnosed in a person, therapeutic support is necessary to prevent the condition from worsening.

What is the Relationship Between OCD and Substance Abuse?

For many individuals, drug and alcohol abuse is how they ease the stress and anxiety of OCD. However, over time, substance addiction will eventually make the condition much worse.

According to a recent study of 323 US adults, 27% fit the criteria for some type of substance abuse disorder. Additionally, 12% of the sample was classified as alcohol dependent, whereas 11% were dependent on alcohol and drugs. Also, 3% were dependent solely on drugs.

Many of these participants noted that their abuse began after they developed OCD symptoms. Incidentally, individuals who suffered with compulsive behaviors and obsessive thinking during childhood were likely to develop problems with drugs and alcohol as they got older. In addition, the study found that OCD isolated these people from their friends and peers, causing social withdrawal and severe mental distress, resulting in addiction.

It is worth noting that social isolation is one of the most common issues that face individuals with OCD. A lot of people eventually become housebound due to their consuming anxieties. Not only does this increase the chance of developing depression, but it also makes them vulnerable to substance abuse. As such, the individual is caught in a cycle of dependency, increasing the sense of isolation and depression, leading to worse anxiety and compulsive behaviors. Both OCD and addiction is likely to become more severe without treatment, leading to profoundly self-destructive behavior and oftentimes hospitalization.

Knowing When to Help Someone with OCD and Drug Addiction?

People with OCD will often hide their condition from their friends and family, usually out of shame and guilt. As a result, the affliction can be left untreated for a long time. That being said, intervening and helping a loved one with OCD access the right treatment can save them an enormous amount of physical and mental torment. If you suspect somebody may be suffering with OCD and substance abuse, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Excessive hand-washing, brushing teeth, and other forms of over-grooming 
• Superstitious counting
• Excessively cleaning the home or office
• Sorting items in a specific order
• Obsessively check the body, hair, and skin for flaws
• Arranging items repeatedly
• Hoarding items that have no apparent value
• Counting actions (such as steps)

In addition, you may also notice the following signs of drug abuse:

• Mood swings
• Paranoia
• Low self-esteem and self-worth
• Aggression
• Tiredness
• Agitation
• Inability to concentrate
• Poor judgment
• Memory problems

Knowing How to Seek Help for OCD and Substance Abuse

If you wish to discuss OCD and addiction with your loved one, you should consider the following points to remain clear-headed and sympathetic to their issue.

• OCD is a condition that causes a lot of emotional pain and anxiety. The individual will usually feel shame about the way they act. Try not to undermine the severity of the disorder.
• Addiction is a disease, not a weakness. Try to remain as nonjudgmental as possible when talking about substance abuse with your loved one.
• Both OCD and addiction lead to depression and withdrawal from society. The conversation may be difficult, but you could help your loved one rebuild their life with the proper therapy.

Seek Out Treatment for OCD and Addiction

The single best way to treat OCD and addiction is to engage in a specific program for people with dual diagnoses. Before broaching the issue with your loved one, seek out an appropriate research addiction treatment facility in your city.

Here at the Recovery Institute of Ohio, we offer dual diagnosis treatment for patients with OCD and drug addiction. With our help, clients gain access to comprehensive therapies, expert physicians, nurses, and other medical personnel. We also offer counseling, 12 step programs, and treatment plans that are geared to provide a path towards independence and sobriety.

If you or someone you care for is battling addiction or a dual diagnosis, please contact our Ohio rehab today today. Our team of experienced treatment specialists is available to help you find the right program for you.

OCD and Addiction: FAQs

What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a condition where you suffer from repetitive thoughts and behaviors that you cannot control.

Are OCD and Addiction Disorders Related?

Not always. OCD is a mental health condition that often first appears in childhood. Addiction is also a mental health issue, usually caused by external stressors. While OCD symptoms can lead people to abuse drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism, the two are not always associated with one another.

What is the Difference Between Addiction and OCD?

The difference between OCD and addiction is all to do with pleasure and relief. While both compulsion and addiction are uncontrollable urges to do something, individuals with OCD feel relief when they give in to their compulsive behavior. Conversely, people with addiction get a sense of pleasure from their behavior.

Depending on the individual’s needs and level of severity, relapse recovery can vary anywhere from thirty, sixty, or ninety-day treatment programs in supervised facilities to a lifetime of maintaining sobriety. It is crucial to understand that addiction recovery has no limitations, and hence you should not confine yourself to a fixed time limit. Failing to understand this may push you to relapse once the time is up.

Get the Help You Need!

If you have already undergone drug addiction recovery or relapse recovery treatment but are struggling with the reality or potential of a relapse, there’s help available. We suggest you get yourself enrolled in a treatment program that better answers your needs and helps you attain sustained sobriety. At Recovery Institute of Ohio, we offer several addiction program options suiting both your needs and budget. Do not allow a relapse or multiple relapses to keep you in a cycle of substance abuse.