In a perfect world, no one would ever experience depression or even so much as a low mood, but the world is far from perfect. And many people do suffer from depression. To put into perspective the breadth and scope of depression in the U.S., we need only look at a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). According to researchers, an estimated 21 million Americans admitted to having at least one major depressive episode in 2020, with most saying the mental illness negatively impacted their social, personal, and professional life. To appreciate how this all-too-common mental illness can affect so many aspects of one’s life, it helps to know a little more about what it is and what triggers it.

The Truth About What Causes Depression

The vast majority of depression people experience is a byproduct of life events that have triggered feelings of stress, loneliness, and isolation. While such events might trigger nothing more than a low mood in some people, which they can easily snap out of, they can trigger weeks and even months-long depression in others. In extreme cases, depression may even give rise to suicidal ideations, which is quite worrying given that these ideations often result in individuals eventually taking their own lives. And this is not a baseless conjectural statement. Moreover, it is a grim reality well substantiated in countless studies. One such comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which found that roughly 12.2 million American adults seriously thought about committing suicide in 2020. Of those, 3.2 million planned a suicide attempt, and 1.2 million succeeded in ending their own life. Aside from life events, many of which are unavoidable, there are several more things that can put individuals at risk of suffering from depression, including

Genetics

We inherit many things from our parents, from skin and hair color to height and body type and everything in between. Sometimes, we even inherit their genetic shortcomings. Such is the case when it comes to depression, according to a Stanford Medicine study. According to researchers and scientists involved in the study, genetics play a role in 40% to 50% of cases involving severe depression. At least 10% of people in the U.S. will experience a major depressive disorder at some point in their lifetime, the same researchers and scientists also found.

Medical Conditions

Chronic illnesses can affect both our physical and mental health. One study published by the Cleveland Clinic found that individuals diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s, and other chronic diseases are more likely to struggle with depression than someone who is otherwise healthy. The study also found that depression is a side effect of many medications commonly prescribed to treat such illnesses.

Personality Traits

When it comes to depression, we are, sometimes, our own worst enemies. Available data shows some people have personality types that make them more prone to feeling overwhelmed in the face of stress. And when this happens, many fall victim to depression.

The long and short of it is depression is a horrible mental illness that can drive many people to give up on many things, including the will to live. But all hope is not lost. There is no shortage of prescription-based antidepressant drugs on the market that can help individuals struggling with depression feel more like themselves again. Some of the ones commonly prescribed include the following selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs):

• Celexa
• Lexapro
• Prozac
• Paxil
• Zoloft

In addition to SSRIs, some physicians and psychiatrists prescribe serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) to those struggling with severe depression. The commonly prescribed ones include the following:

• Cymbalta
• Effexor
• Pristiq

Science Reveals What Antidepressants Do to the Brain

While psychological counseling with a licensed therapist can help many people suffering from depression, others have no choice but to take antidepressants to cope with day-to-day life. The most recent and up-to-date data shows physicians wrote nearly 71 million prescriptions for antidepressants in 2018, with 53% of those prescriptions written for SSRIs and a little over 9% written for SNRIs. There is no denying that these drugs work, but how they work and what they do in the brain are topics worthy of discussion and deeper understanding.

How SSRIs Combat Depression

Whether it be Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, or another SSRI, they all do a pretty good job of combatting feelings of depression. These medications work by ramping up the production of serotonin in the brain. For reference, serotonin is a hormone and neurotransmitter that plays an integral role in regulating mood, sleep, and many other bodily functions. When someone takes SSRIs, the uptick in serotonin levels in the brain provides considerable relief from depression-related symptoms, some of which include

• Irritability
• Anhedonia
• Changes in appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feeling anxious
• Feeling worthless or hopeless
• Intense feelings of sadness
• Low energy
• Unintended weight loss or weight gain

How SNRIs Combat Depression

Like SSRIs, SNRIs also ramp up the production of serotonin levels in the brain to help combat depression. But it does not stop there. It also ramps up the production of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that regulates energy, focus, and attention. Because of how it works in the brain to help ease depressive symptoms, SNRIs are also helpful in treating chronic pain and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What Happens to the Brain When Someone Stops Taking Antidepressants?

What happens to the brain when someone stops taking antidepressants depends on the antidepressant they were on and how long they were taking it. For example, SSRIs can alter parts of the brain that affect serotonin receptors, which puts individuals at risk of suffering from SSRI discontinuation syndrome when they stop taking the drugs. SSRI discontinuation syndrome can reduce serotonin levels in the brain and trigger what many describe as flu-like symptoms. The condition can also cause insomnia, sensory disturbances, nausea, and even sensory disturbances.

The alteration to the parts of the brain that affect serotonin receptors and the resulting symptoms that occur after someone abruptly stops taking SSRIs is temporary. Generally speaking, it takes 6 to 8 weeks for the brain to return to normal and for all other symptoms to dissipate after someone stops taking SSRI drugs. Abruptly quitting SNRIs triggers SNRI discontinuation syndrome. And it affects individuals in the same way as SSRI discontinuation syndrome. The only difference is the symptoms are mild by comparison and generally last only 1 to 2 weeks. The time it takes for the brain to return to normal after someone stops taking SNRIs is about the same, roughly 6 to 8 weeks.

In summary, millions of people in the U.S. struggle with depression, and many are taking antidepressant drugs to help combat their depressive symptoms. Contrary to popular belief, SSRIs and SNRIs prescribed to treat this horrible mental illness are generally safe when taken as prescribed. While they do, indeed, change some areas of the brain responsible for the production of serotonin, such changes are only temporary. Multiple studies show the brain naturally heals itself a few weeks after an individual stops taking SSRIs or SNRIs. To learn more about these drugs and other ways to treat depression, consider speaking with a Recreate Life Counseling associate today.

Published on: 2022-12-24
Updated on: 2025-02-09

Anxiety is one of the most common and debilitating mental health issues worldwide. While anxiety does have a beneficial function in ensuring that we stay safe from danger and make decisions that don’t harm us, unhealthy amounts of anxiety, either daily or triggered by specific circumstances, only cause unnecessary harm and negatively affect the lives of millions of people of all ages and backgrounds across the world. There are numerous medications available to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety. One of the most effective of these medications is clonidine.

What is Clonidine?

Clonidine hydrochloride is primarily a hypertension medication, usually shortened to clonidine or referred to by the brand name Catapres. It works by decreasing the amounts of norepinephrine in your body. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that controls stress responses by increasing your heart rate and blood pressure in response to what we perceive as potentially dangerous situations. The lower amounts of norepinephrine in your body that occurs as a result of clonidine allow your blood vessels to relax more quickly and lower your heart rate. While hypertension is the primary condition for which clonidine is prescribed, many doctors have found that the drug also has excellent benefits in treating other conditions such as ADHD, insomnia, PTSD, migraines, Tourette’s syndrome, and anxiety disorders.

Anxiety and hypertension go hand-in-hand. People who suffer from anxiety problems are at a higher risk of developing hypertension since the condition increases blood pressure, and many people who have hypertension struggle with feelings of anxiety. The effects of clonidine work to combat the effects of both conditions at once.

Is Clonidine Effective at Treating Anxiety?

Many people suffering from anxiety disorders have experienced great results after taking clonidine. Studies have shown that clonidine reduces anxiety symptoms in most users, particularly in the frequency of anxiety attacks and the non-physical symptoms such as feelings of dread, nervousness, excessive worrying, difficulty relaxing, irritability, and mood swings.

Public response to clonidine treatments for anxiety has also been largely positive, with over 60% of users reporting a decrease in symptoms and an improvement in their daily lives. Like any other medication, it doesn’t work for everyone. Every person’s body and mind are different, and what might work for most patients might not work for others. However, clonidine has proven to be one of the more effective medicinal treatments for anxiety that has been developed so far.

How Do You Use Clonidine?

First of all, as with any prescription medication, it’s essential to only take clonidine if it’s been prescribed to you by a doctor. Never take medication belonging to other people since it may be harmful depending on your personal medical history and condition.

Second, follow the dosage instructions for your prescription strictly. Your psychiatrist will start you on a very low dosage, taken around once a week, and gradually increase your dosage depending on how you react to it. On average, when taken at normal dosage levels, most patients take clonidine twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. Because the tablets are extended-release, you must take the tablets whole. You cannot cut the pills into pieces or crush them.

Clonidine comes in either oral tablets or patches. Your psychiatrist will make suggestions on which they believe is better for your particular situation. Patches can be stuck almost anywhere you prefer on your body, but the best effects are usually experienced when the patch is placed on the chest or arm. Patches are usually applied once a week on a clean patch of skin. They should be disposed of in a sealed container or bag to avoid pets or children being exposed to the medication.

Finally, if you notice you are experiencing adverse side effects or allergic reactions, contact your therapist or seek medical attention as soon as possible.

If the side effects you’re experiencing are so severe that you believe it’s best to get off the medication, contact your doctor as soon as possible. When you stop taking clonidine after being on it for an extended period, you will likely develop potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms after you suddenly stop taking it. If your doctor agrees that you should be taken off of the medication, they will help wean you off of it slowly and safely.

Should you accidentally overdose on clonidine, you need to be aware of the signs to prevent suffering from severe adverse effects or possibly life-threatening reactions. The strongest symptoms of overdosing are difficulty breathing, cold sweats, confusion, a drastic drop in blood pressure, weakness, severe drowsiness, slurred speech, and shivering. If you start experiencing any of these symptoms, contact emergency medical services as soon as possible.

What are the Side Effects?

The most commonly experienced side effects of clonidine are usually very mild. These common side effects include dry mouth, fatigue, headache, nausea, drowsiness, constipation, fever, weakness, and irritability.

Some less common but moderate side effects include vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Severe side effects are rare, but you should seek immediate medical attention when you experience them. These side effects include rash, hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, constricted pupils, and swelling in the face, throat, hands, or feet.

What Drugs Interact with Clonidine?

If you are currently taking any other medications, or if you start taking a new medication while you’re on clonidine, notify your doctor immediately to ensure that you avoid any adverse drug interactions. The drugs that have been shown to interact poorly the most with clonidine are antidepressants, sleep aids, muscle relaxants, alcohol, antipsychotics, and beta-blockers.

Contact Recreate Life Counseling today if you’re suffering from anxiety and need help. Not only will the professionals at Recreate Life Counseling be able to help you with your anxiety, but they’ll also be able to help you recover from mental health conditions contributing to your anxiety, such as drug and alcohol addiction. They utilize a wide variety of therapies and medical care for all your individual needs to ensure that your road to recovery is as smooth as possible.

Published on: 2022-10-31
Updated on: 2024-10-28

While they might not make the headlines as opioids and stimulants do, benzodiazepines such as Valium play a substantial role in the substance abuse crisis in the U.S. To appreciate the extent of this issue, consider a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which revealed that an estimated 5.3 million people misuse diazepam. The average misuser is between 18 and 25 years old. Many of those who currently misuse this benzo started out taking it for legitimate medical reasons but later began using it in ways that contradicted their physician’s instructions, leading to addiction.

The NIH study also highlighted that around 17% of individuals taking benzodiazepines, particularly alprazolam or Valium, misuse them. This misuse often leads to dangerous consequences, such as addiction and benzodiazepine withdrawal, which can be severe and require proper medical supervision.

How Long Does It Take for Valium to Start Working?

Along with anxiety and sleeplessness, many physicians prescribe Valium to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms, muscle spasms, athetosis, seizures, and stiff person syndrome (SPS). Valium use generally takes effect within an hour of administration to treat these conditions, but for some, it can act faster, typically within 15 to 30 minutes. The effects of diazepam can vary depending on the dosage and individual tolerance. For those taking it to combat anxiety, seizures, or muscle spasms, the typical dose of diazepam is around 2 mg taken orally up to 4 times daily, as prescribed by a physician.

However, misuse often leads to much higher doses being consumed, with individuals taking high doses in an attempt to achieve quicker effects or a more intense high. Over time, this misuse builds tolerance, requiring even more frequent or higher doses to achieve the same effect. As tolerance develops, users may require much more than their last dose to feel any significant relief, leading to dependency and, eventually, addiction. Questions like “How long does Valium last?” become relevant as misusers adjust their behavior to accommodate the drug’s longevity in the body.

Additional Facts Everyone Should Know About Valium

One of the most troubling aspects of substance abuse in America is some issues never get the attention they deserve. Some even get intentionally or unintentionally swept under the proverbial rug. Both are the case when it comes to drug statistics. For example, along with 18- to 25-year-olds, 0.6% of individuals aged 65 and older also misuse Valium and other benzodiazepines. Of course, the troubling data related to the misuse of Valium and similar drugs do not end there. Available data show adults aged 50 and older are far more likely than younger adults to misuse medications in this class. Further, they are more likely than younger adults to use them to help with sleep. Among all ages, misuse of benzodiazepines often leads to abuse or dependence on opioids or stimulants.

Why Makes Valium So Addictive?

To better understand what makes Valium so addictive, it helps to know a little more about the drug and its metabolites, as well as what it does to individuals who use it. When someone takes Valium, it triggers an uptick in the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system (CNS), and its role is to reduce neuronal excitability by inhibiting nerve transmission.

When someone takes benzodiazepines, such as Valium, as directed, the increased production of GABA promotes a sense of calm. This is why many physicians consider Valium a go-to drug for treating anxiety and sleeplessness. However, long-term use or drug abuse can lead to physical dependence on the drug. Prolonged exposure to above-average levels of GABA can make Valium highly addictive. Many individuals become addicted to Valium after just 4 to 6 weeks of regular use.

Short-term use can help manage symptoms, but extended use increases the risk of addiction. Valium and its metabolites stay in the body for extended periods, which is why it often shows up in urine tests and other drug tests for several days after drug use. This persistence in the body contributes to addiction risks and makes detoxing from Valium challenging.

Some of the most common signs of Valium or benzodiazepine addiction include the following:

• Intense cravings
• An unyielding desire to isolate from family and friends
• Losing interest in previously enjoyable activities
• Ignoring work or family obligations

How Long Do the Effects of Valium Last?

When individuals take valium, the drug reaches its peak concentration within about an hour. The psychological and physiological effects of the drug can last 4 to 6 hours, but the drug can remain in one’s system for much longer. Depending on the dose someone has been taking, how long they have been using, and whether or not they combine it with other drugs, Valium can take several days or even weeks to leave the body entirely. For reference, the half-life of Valium is 20 hours.

What Happens When You Suddenly Stop Taking Valium?

When someone suddenly stops taking Valium, they experience a wide range of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. For this reason, many addiction experts encourage these individuals to seek treatment in an inpatient program, which can last anywhere from 30 to 120 days. Some of these withdrawal symptoms individuals often face while detoxing from Valium include the following:

• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal Pain
• Cramps
• Tremors
• Elevated blood pressure
• Changes in heart rate
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Intense cravings
• Mood swings

The withdrawal symptoms brought on by detoxing from Valium can last 7 to 10 days. One benefit of going to an inpatient program is access to medication-assisted detox. This aspect of addiction recovery involves round-the-clock monitoring by a licensed physician or nurse and FDA-approved drugs to make it slightly easier to cope with severe withdrawal symptoms. Some of the FDA-approved drugs commonly prescribed in rehab facilities across the country include the following:

• Methadone
• Buprenorphine
• Naltrexone
• Acamprosate
• Disulfiram
• Lofexidine

In addition to medication-assisted detox, many rehab facilities offer counseling sessions with a licensed therapist. These sessions help individuals overcome the psychological aspects of quitting Valium, a schedule IV prescription drug, while teaching them how to cope with cravings, temptation, and other triggers that could potentially lead to relapse. Valium is often used as an anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, and for treating panic attacks. However, long-term misuse can lead to use disorder, requiring comprehensive addiction treatment.

As their time in rehab draws to a close, many rehab facilities provide referrals to support groups, outpatient programs, or sober living homes if they believe an individual is a good candidate for such treatment options. These programs are particularly valuable for those needing ongoing support as they transition to normal life.

While Valium is legal and offers real therapeutic value for managing mental health issues such as anxiety, panic disorders, and health conditions like muscle spasms or muscle weakness, it remains a powerful and addictive drug. It is often prescribed alongside other medications, including antidepressants, for comprehensive treatment of mental health conditions. Prescribing Valium requires caution due to its high potential for addiction.

Conclusion

Fortunately, there are numerous rehab facilities and treatment programs available for individuals struggling with Valium addiction. These programs, which may include both inpatient and outpatient options, can provide vital support for individuals on their path to recovery. For those looking for more information on addiction treatment or assistance in finding a suitable program, reaching out to a Recreate Life Counseling associate can be a helpful first step.

FAQ

Published on: 2022-10-29
Updated on: 2025-01-08

TL;DR – Suboxone can block the effects of full opioid agonists, such as Oxycontin, Fentanyl, Methadone, and the like, for up to 24 hours.

Available data shows that alcohol, opioids, cocaine, amphetamines, and marijuana are the most widely abused illicit drugs in the U.S. Because of their impact on the brain and the high risk of addiction, opioids are the most dangerous of all these drugs, according to the same data. In a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), researchers noted the same, pointing to the fact that some 3 million Americans either had or currently have an opioid use disorder (OUD). And the nature of these opioid use disorders is a mixed bag insofar as some people are struggling with prescription-based opioids, such as Oxycontin and Fentanyl, while others are enduring similar struggles with the street-level variant, specifically heroin.

The Reality of Quitting Opioids

When someone abruptly stops taking opioids, their body begins the process of ridding itself of not only the drug but also other harmful contaminants. This process is called detox, and depending on how long an individual has been using, the dose they were taking, and whether or not they abused prescription or street-level opioids, it can take days or weeks to run its course. In the interim, most people experience a barrage of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Some of the more notable ones include

• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety
• Elevated body temperature
• Arrhythmia
• Muscle and bone pain
• Profuse sweating
• Chills
• High blood pressure

How Rehab Facilities in the U.S. Are Helping People Overcome Opioid Addiction

Due to the inability to cope with severe withdrawal symptoms, many people relapse while still in an addiction recovery program. In a study published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), researchers revealed that the rate of relapse associated with substance use disorders in the U.S. is between 40% and 60%. These sobering statistics explain why many rehab facilities offer medication-assisted detox. For those not already in the know, medication-assisted detox, among other things, entails using prescription drugs to help combat severe withdrawal symptoms, one of which is Suboxone.

How Long Does Suboxone Block Opiates?

Suboxone, which contains the active ingredient Buprenorphine, is a partial opioid agonist that works like Oxycontin, Fentanyl, Methadone, and other full opioid agonists, but its effects are much weaker. When someone takes full opioid agonist drugs, those drugs attach to the opioid receptors in the brain and throughout the central nervous system (CNS), which produces a euphoric high. When the effects of those powerful, full opioid agonist drugs wear off, severe withdrawal symptoms almost always follow. The Buprenorphine in Suboxone blocks full agonists that would otherwise attach to those opioid receptors in the brain and CNS. These actions help blunt the euphoric effects of full opioid agonists while helping to ease severe withdrawal symptoms. Studies show that a single dose of Suboxone can block the effects of full opioid agonists, such as Oxycontin, Fentanyl, Methadone, and the like, for up to 24 hours. In some cases, the blocking effects can last up to 60 hours.

Bottom Line

Quitting opioids is not easy, but it is not impossible, especially if you have help from a licensed rehab facility and access to prescription drugs, like Suboxone, to help ease severe withdrawal symptoms. To learn more about how Suboxone can help you end your relationship with opioids, consider speaking with one of our friendly and knowledgeable associates today.

FAQ

Published on: 2022-09-30
Updated on: 2025-02-15

The phrases “nodding out” and “nodding off” refer to a state that an opiate user often experiences after intaking the substance. This is especially prevalent amongst heroin users, which is why it is often called the “heroin nod,” although it is more generally known as the “opioid nod.” It refers to experiencing a sudden state of sleep, similar to a tired student having micro-naps during a lecture, although it is also very different.

Some users have a specific goal to nod off after taking the substance because of the sense of euphoria that that state of mind often creates.

How does nodding off occur?

Heroin depresses a body’s central nervous system. This can be done significantly, depending on the dosage and the body’s tolerance to it. Contributing to this impact is how the drug was inserted into the body, as intravenous use with needle results in the effects of the drug being felt much more quickly.

More specifically, users will generally experience an intense state of euphoria that is followed by a trans-like state of being that results in the person alternating between states of sleep and wakefulness.

The process of going from inserting the drug to a state of euphoria to falling into sleep/unconsciousness can all occur in seconds. Sometimes, the needle that was used to insert the opioids is still in the user’s arm when the initial nodding off occurs.

Nodding off can last for seconds, minutes, or hours.

Dangers of nodding off

As a result of this suddenly increased drowsiness, essential bodily functions start to operate at a reduced state or stop altogether. In the case of an overdose, that can result in the heart and lungs being the only ones left functioning. Sometimes, the state of relaxation increases so much that breathing becomes shallow and can even stop.

It should be noted that the reduction of anxiety that occurs when using opiates often results in the user not being concerned about what is happening, even when it is a life-threatening situation.

Also, note that some die while nodding off due to vomiting and then choking because they were unconscious at that time. There are also dangers relevant to what the user was doing at the time. For example, if they stood when they nodded, they could injure themselves while falling to the ground.

Nodding off in and of itself is a sign that an overdose may have occurred, possibly a life-threatening one.

Issues resulting from escalating use

Using heroin and other opioids usually results in quickly experiencing high tolerance levels. That means that users need to take increasingly higher doses or take doses more often to achieve similar results as they relate to the desired feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Doing so not only increases the chances of overdosing, but it increases the possibility of nodding off as well.

Also, the user’s ability to make rational life decisions decreases significantly once addicted. This includes, in many cases, caring less and less that the opiates being taken have the potential to end their life.

Types of drugs that cause nodding out

Some of the other common drugs, besides heroin, that can cause nodding out include codeine, oxycodone, hydromorphone, and hydrocodone.

Also, mixing opioids with alcohol or benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium, is more apt to cause nodding off and the dangerous repercussions that result. However, it is the opioid that is causing the nodding off. Alcohol and benzodiazepines have the potential to make it worse, but the latter two types of substances will usually not cause nodding off in and of themselves.

How people get addicted to opioids

Opioids are known as some of the most difficult drugs to eradicate once addicted. Unfortunately, many become addicted to them innocently after being prescribed them to handle chronic pain or a similar situation. In some cases, the recreational use of over-the-counter pain medication results in opioid addiction.

Many do take opiates and do not become addicted to them, but enough experience addiction for this situation to affect a tremendous number of people. For example, the number of Americans who died from an opioid overdose in 2020 was 68,630. It should also be noted that opioids cause more overdose-related deaths than any type of drug, roughly four out of five.

Responding to an overdose

Naloxone can help reverse many of the effects of a heroin overdose. When heroin is taken, it attaches to the brain’s opioid receptors, while naloxone detaches the heroin from those places. In other words, the physical and other depressant effects of heroin are stopped as a result of taking naloxone.

If a loved one has been taking an opioid, experiencing trouble breathing, or not waking up, seek medical help.

Keep in mind that doses secured from unofficial sources can vary significantly as far as their purity levels and related factors go, sometimes resulting in overdoses that were not expected or intended. Also, some illegal providers include fentanyl when giving heroin to users or simply provide fentanyl instead of heroin while still calling it heroin; fentanyl is dozens of times as powerful as heroin.

Other signs of opioid use/addiction

Physical signs of recent opioid use can include lack of motor control, slow heart rate, shallow breathing, a state of confusion, itching, constricted pupils, and bluish skin, the latter resulting from the user experiencing poor circulation. Impaired reflexes and other types of movements can also occur.

A few signs of ongoing opioid use can include needle marks, such as cuts and abrasions, collapsed veins, and under-skin bruising. Repeated flu-like experiences can also be observed; that is one of the most common signs of withdrawal from opioids.

Some of the non-physical signs of heroin addiction or addiction to other opioids include the individual having an increased focus on money and on securing it by any means necessary and involving themselves in a different friend group than had been the case before. As compared to before, a decreased amount of interest in work or school often results as well.

Is heroin/opioid addiction a choice or a disease?

Some view heroin/opioid addiction as a choice, while others view it as a disease. The truth likely lies in the middle.

It is extremely unlikely that someone would choose to start using opioids with the intent to become addicted to them. What usually occurs is that they consume opioids with the intent for the user to be limited in scope. However, this ultimately leads to addiction in many.

It is then challenging to define using it as a choice anymore because the mind has been tricked into depending on it to the point that it is viewed by the brain as more crucial than almost every other aspect of life. As a result, it can be difficult for someone addicted to it to seek help. However, many people do just that and start putting their life back in a positive direction.

Treatment for opioid addiction

Those looking to remove heroin or other opiates from their lives should contact us at Recreate Life Counseling, and we will discuss our opioid addiction treatment options and help you head towards sobriety. The path will not be easy, but we will help you navigate it.

Published on: 2022-09-22
Updated on: 2024-07-08

Drug tests are commonly used in workplaces, sports teams, and other areas to determine if an individual has been using prohibited or illegal drugs and is a prevention technique used to promote a drug-free workplace. Employers can test employees for alcohol and other drug use as part of an annual physical examination. A positive drug test could prevent you from getting a job or result in the loss of employment. It may result in getting kicked off a sports team or suspension. These and other serious ramifications can dramatically impact your life. With so much riding on the results of your next drug test, you understandably want to be fully prepared.

How to Prepare for a Drug Test

In some cases, random drug testing is becoming more common in the workplace, and there is nothing that you can do to prepare for them. However, when a drug test is announced ahead of time, you could take several steps to prevent a positive test result. First, you should learn more about the testing procedures. Specifically, will the test require a blood, sweat, hair, or urine sample? What drugs are being tested for? These tests commonly screen for marijuana use, phencyclidine, opiates, opioids, cocaine, and amphetamines. However, some tests may be more advanced and may also screen for benzodiazepines, hydrocodone, alcohol, MDMA, barbiturates, and other substances.

It is best to avoid using these substances altogether. If you use them, you should stop as soon as you know of a planned drug test. Some of these substances may be detected by drug tests for days, weeks, or more after the last use. Depending on the drug test being used, consuming more water may help flush the substance out of your system. However, this is minimally effective at best.

Medications That Can Cause a False Positive on a Drug Test

Some people may take certain medications that could trigger a false positive on a hair, mouth swab and urine drug test. These include both over-the-counter and prescription medications. For example, over-the-counter cough suppressants containing dextromethorphan, including Delsym and Robitussin, may falsely indicate a positive result for PCP on a urine test. Diphenhydramine, which is a common over-the-counter allergy medicine, may trigger a false positive for both PCP and opiates. Sudafed and other sinus medications containing pseudoephedrine may produce a false positive test result for methamphetamine or amphetamine. Phentermine, a weight loss drug, can also falsely produce a positive indication for amphetamine use. Even NSAIDs, such as Motrin, Aleve, Advil, and others, may produce a false positive test result for THC, cannabis or barbiturates.

Many prescription medications can yield false positives as well. The sleeping pill trazodone can give a false positive for methamphetamine or amphetamine use. Antidepressants, such as Effexor XR, Pristiq, Sertraline, and Wellbutrin, can yield positive drug test results for various illegal substances. If you take the antipsychotic Seroquel, you may receive a false positive test result for methadone. Proton pump inhibitors, which are used to treat heartburn and acid reflux, may produce a false positive for THC. Some of the other medications that could yield false positives for various illicit substances are quinolone antibiotics and promethazine.

Before you submit your required samples for drug screening, it is important that you disclose a complete list of all medications that you have taken recently. Remember that some of these substances may still be detectable in your system for weeks after the last use. There are different types of drug tests that can be used. More sophisticated, sensitive tests can be used to detect forbidden substances. These include the high-performance liquid chromatography test and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The test administrator can determine the right test to use based on the medications that you have been using.

The Best Defense for a Positive Drug Test

If you are concerned about failing a scheduled drug test or if you have been surprised by an unannounced drug test, you understandably may be wondering how you should respond when the results arrive. After all, a positive drug test may impact your ability to work and other important aspects of your life. There are many common excuses that have been used over the years, and some are more effective than others. Many private employers are usually willing to assist their employees with drug or alcohol rehabilitation.

For example, some people may state that they inhaled second-hand marijuana smoke or kissed someone immediately after they smoked. They may say that eating poppy seeds, taking natural supplements, or even using lotions and shampoos resulted in a false positive result. A claim that a prescription drug prescribed appropriately by a doctor or for someone in the home could be common. Some people may even claim that the lab mixed up specimens.

If you feel certain that a mistake has been made, it is crucial to request a retest. If a retest request is approved, one of the more advanced testing methods may be used. These include high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

On the other hand, if your positive drug test result is legitimate, this is a sign that you may have a drug dependency or addiction. In some workplaces and schools, the written policy may be to always terminate the relationship. However, in other venues, there may be leniency. For example, you may be able to return to your work position or to your place on the team after completing a drug rehabilitation program and agreeing to take regular drug tests in the future. Being honest about the situation can be challenging, but it may yield the best results for you in the long run.

How to Dispute a Positive Drug Test

If you have used illicit drugs at any time in the last few weeks or longer, you may not be surprised to learn that you have failed your drug test. Likewise, if you used a medication that is known to cause a false positive, you may expect to receive bad news when your test results arrive. Some people will go to great lengths to try to cleanse their bodies of concerning substances before the test. There are many homemade concoctions and products available that claim to produce results. Unfortunately, many of these do not generate the desired results. The best idea is to avoid using substances that may impact your drug test results.

If your positive drug test is based on a legitimate reason, you should be forthright about the reason as soon as possible. In fact, if you believe that something you may have used or ingested could cause a false positive, this should be disclosed when possible. If necessary, ask for a second test that supports your claim.

On the other hand, if your positive drug test is based on the use of banned or illegal substances, you should not try to make ineffective excuses. Many workplaces and schools have a zero-tolerance policy. You likely were aware of that policy before using the substances, so an excuse will not suffice in this situation. You must live with the consequences of your actions.

In some venues, however, there may be more leniency as long as you show initiative to overcome your addiction. Demonstrating your desire to go clean does not start with making an ineffective excuse. It starts by acknowledging your situation and requesting support. While taking an open, honest approach in both of these situations is important, this is only the first step. Seeking drug addiction treatment and moving toward a sober lifestyle is essential and may help you to avoid being in this situation in the future.

Explore Your Treatment Options Today

At Recreate Life Counseling, we know how devastating a failed drug test can be to your life. Substance abuse and addiction can have harsh effects on your employment, your personal life, and other important areas. Our compassionate, experienced team provides effective drug addiction treatment. We can support you on your journey to sobriety and help you to lead the life you want. Contact Recreate Life Counseling for a private consultation to learn more about your addiction treatment options.

FAQ

Published on: 2022-09-14
Updated on: 2025-02-15

Through their compelling work on stage, in movies, and on TV, actors often serve as role models. Young people, in particular, might idolize their favorite performers.

For his part, the actor Shaun Weiss has become a role model for his off-screen achievements. In fact, Shaun’s sobriety journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

As a young actor in the 1990s, Shaun Weiss appeared in the movie “The Mighty Ducks,” a comedy about a youth hockey team. He acted in its two sequels as well. In those family-friendly films, Shaun played the funny and cheerful goalie Greg Goldberg.

Shaun was also a guest actor on a number of popular TV shows, including “The King of Queens” and “Boy Meets World.”

However, when people become successful — especially in the entertainment field — they sometimes discover that they have easier access to drugs. They might also have the disposable income to feed a drug habit. Temptations may become very powerful. And, sadly, addictions can be simple to form and extremely hard to break.

Shaun Weiss fell prey to such temptations. Nevertheless, in the last couple of years, he’s managed to fight a life-altering addiction to methamphetamine with great courage.

Meth addictions are especially brutal. They frequently lead to insomnia, paranoid delusions, violent thoughts, psychotic behaviors, hallucinations, an ongoing loss of appetite, and other severe mental health issues. Meth can also induce users to drink more alcohol and to try other drugs.

For sure, many people could find inspiration in Shaun’s heroic battles with substance abuse disorder and the ways in which he’s reclaimed his life.

A Harrowing Disease

In the late 2010s, as Shaun’s addictions deepened, he started having problems with the law. In July 2017, he stole electronic goods worth about $150. He was caught, charged with petty theft, and sentenced to serve 150 days in a Los Angeles prison. He ended up serving only 12 days due to the overcrowded conditions there.

Then, several days after leaving jail in August 2017, Shaun was in legal trouble again. He’d been staggering around a Burbank neighborhood near the Warner Bros. Studio. A resident called the police. And, when officers arrived at the scene, they arrested Shaun for methamphetamine possession.

The following year, Shaun was charged with public intoxication, and he entered a rehab program. But, later in 2018, he was arrested for shoplifting.

A low point came on January 26, 2020. On that day, under the influence of meth, Shaun broke into a home in Marysville, Calif. He entered the garage, smashed a car window, and rummaged through the vehicle, looking for items that he could steal.

The homeowner found Shaun inside his garage and called the police. As a result, Shaun was arrested on multiple charges, including residential burglary, and held on $52,000 bail.

In all of this, Shaun’s addiction destroyed more than his career. It also ravaged his body. His face became hollowed out. His weight dropped to 110 pounds, which was of course dangerously low. He lost some teeth, and other teeth were severely damaged. In fact, it’s common for meth to cause extreme tooth decay.

Overcoming a Cruel Addiction

The story of Shaun Weiss could easily have ended in tragedy. Instead, Shaun was able to take positive action. For him, a brand new day has dawned.

That’s because, after his 2020 arrest, Shaun decided to seek professional treatment for his meth addiction. The results have been profound.

Over the past two years, Shaun has returned to a healthier body weight. In addition, he completed a drug court program, which meant that his burglary charge could be dismissed.

Beyond simply dismissing the charge, the Yuba County District Attorney’s Office has held up Shaun as a shining example. On its official Facebook account, the office lauded Shaun’s perseverance and newfound employment. It also noted the outpouring of support he’s received from his many friends and fans.

Sometime soon, Shaun will even hit the big screen once again. His last film role was in “Drillbit Taylor,” a 2008 comedy about high school students who hire an incompetent bodyguard.

Shaun’s upcoming movie is called “Jesus Revolution,” and it’s about a group of California hippies in the 1970s who undergo a spiritual transformation. (Kelsey Grammer is slated to act in this film as well.) As Shaun put it on Instagram, it’s his first role “in…a while.” And he added an emoji with a silly face.

On top of everything else, Shaun has gone through a series of grueling dental and orthodontic surgeries to repair his existing teeth and replace his lost teeth with implants. Once again, Shaun can flash his winning smile whenever he’d like.

Showing Others the Way

Shaun Weiss has used his social media accounts to share information and good news about his recovery. For example, he posted an Instagram photo in which he’s posing with Dr. Gabe Rosenthal, one of the dentists who’ve been so helpful to him recently.

One of Shaun’s most memorable social media posts featured his last two driver’s license photos. Together, they tell a striking before-and-after story. In the first picture, Shaun’s face is emaciated. His hair is messy. And he seems to be struggling to smile. In the second and newer photo, Shaun’s face is fuller. His hair is neat, and he looks like a person who’s truly at peace.

With these types of posts, Shaun offers wisdom, comfort, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity to many people who are also grappling with substance abuse disorders.

One lesson that emerges from Shaun Weiss’ experiences is that it’s important not to embark on a sobriety journey alone. The advice and emotional support of others can be key to successful outcomes. Strength is derived from companionship.

In particular, Shaun’s friend Drew Gallagher was a steady presence. At a time when many of Shaun’s other friends abandoned him, Drew stood by faithfully. After Shaun was arrested in 2020, Drew created a fundraising campaign for him on the website GoFundMe. The money raised from that project helped finance Shaun’s initial 90-day treatment.

That brings us to a second crucial lesson from Shaun’s journey: A professional treatment center is so often indispensable to the addiction recovery process. To emphasize that fact, Shaun has encouraged his social media followers to call such a service if they’re facing a chemical dependency.

At Recreate Life Counseling, we offer the kind of support and care that make a lasting difference in patients’ lives. And all of our treatment methods are personalized since each person is different; everyone comes to us having lived through a unique set of circumstances.

All of our staff members are attentive and supportive. We’re highly experienced, and we’ve had extensive training in our field. As such, we provide a safe and nurturing environment for our programs, including our residential services. Moreover, all of our therapies are based on science; everything we do is guided by hard data and research evidence.

Thus, we fully understand the effects of addiction — how it affects a person’s thinking and emotions. We also know the behaviors that frequently stem from substance use. Furthermore, through cognitive behavioral therapy and other forms of treatment, we impart skills and strategies for long-term sobriety.

In the end, with the right guidance, you can absolutely beat addiction. You can also reconnect with your friends and family members. And you can lead a happy and purposeful life. If you’re struggling with addiction, please contact us at Recreate Life Counseling at any time. Shaun Weiss would be proud.

Published on: 2022-04-15
Updated on: 2024-07-13