addiction and substance abuse

How Healthcare Professionals Can Support Better Rehab Outcomes

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Helping family through addiction can be difficult. It can also be difficult to know where to draw the line. Please also review AIHCP's Substance Abuse Counseling Program

Written by Alex Alonso,

Rehabilitation plays a key role in helping patients regain strength, function, and hope. Yet good rehab needs more than just treatment plans. It needs dedicated people who know how to guide, motivate, and support. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by using simple but effective steps in daily practice. Their patients rely on clear guidance and realistic goals. Likewise, families need advice and resources to help at home. All teams must work together and stay updated. Taking all these steps makes rehab work better for every patient. Focusing on clear talk, teamwork, and smart care plans enables healthcare professionals to support better rehab outcomes that truly last.

Build Trust Through Clear Communication

Trust is the foundation of strong rehab care (Ha, J. F., & Longnecker, N., 2010). Patients who trust their care team are more likely to follow plans and speak up when they struggle. To build trust, healthcare professionals must use clear and honest words. Avoid medical jargon that confuses or scares patients. Simple language eases fear and opens the door for questions.

Active listening is key—give patients time to share feelings or worries. Show empathy through words and actions. Even ‘tough’ talks about setbacks should be honest yet kind. For patients facing addiction, clear talk and support are vital, and extra resources such as substance abuse counseling can guide families and patients through difficult times. Open talks build trust, which helps healthcare professionals support every patient, no matter the challenge they face.

Create Patient-Centered Care Plans

Each patient has unique needs, goals, and limits. Therefore, a strong rehab plan should reflect this. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by creating patient-centered care plans (Epstein, R. M., & Street, R. L., 2011).

First, listen to what matters most to the patient. Find out what motivates them and what fears hold them back. Adjust treatment goals to match their daily life and values. Keep plans flexible—if progress stalls, talk about new options.

Also, bring the patient into every step. When people feel heard, they stay engaged. For patients with addiction, it helps to understand the nature of addiction and substance abuse for each patient, so plans can address their specific needs. Share updates often and check if goals still fit. Patient-centered care builds trust and keeps rehab focused on real progress.

Set Realistic Expectations for Recovery

Setting clear and realistic expectations helps patients stay motivated during rehab. Unmet hopes can lead to frustration and dropout. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by talking openly about timelines, limits, and possible setbacks.

Each person’s progress depends on many factors, including age, health, and the type of substance involved. Some addictions take longer to treat than others, and it helps to know that rehab recovery rates vary by substance. This knowledge guides professionals to give honest, informed advice that fits each patient’s situation.

When patients know what to expect, they feel more in control and less afraid of slow progress. So, set small, reachable goals along the way. Celebrate wins, no matter how small. Honest talks about recovery timelines builds trust and helps patients stick with treatment until they reach a stronger, stable life.

Foster Multidisciplinary Teamwork

No one can handle rehab alone. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by working as a strong, united team (Zwarenstein, M., Goldman, J., & Reeves, S., 2023). Each member brings a skill that helps patients heal faster and better. Doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers must share updates and goals often. Clear teamwork avoids mistakes and keeps care smooth. Good teamwork makes patients feel safe and supported from all sides.

Key ways to foster teamwork:

  • Define each role clearly so that duties do not overlap.
  • Share patient updates in a simple, clear format.
  • Hold weekly meetings to fix gaps early.
  • Respect each member’s input and ideas.
  • Solve conflicts quickly to keep trust strong.

When everyone works together, patients see better results and feel true support.

Monitor Progress Consistently

Progress checks keep patients on track and show what works or needs to change. Watching progress closely and adjusting plans when needed is crucial for positive outcomes. Use simple tools to track daily or weekly goals.

Share these updates with patients to keep them motivated. When patients see proof of improvement, they gain hope and push harder. If progress stalls, act fast—talk with the team, find barriers, and fix them early. Keep records clear and easy to share with the whole care team.

Good monitoring helps spot problems before they grow. Check-ins can be quick but should happen often. Honest progress talks build trust and keep everyone focused on real results. When healthcare teams watch progress closely, patients get better care and stronger rehab results.

Encourage Family and Caregiver Involvement

Family and caregivers play a big role in a patient’s rehab journey. They can motivate, remind, and guide patients when professionals are not around. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by teaching families how to help safely and wisely.

First, give clear instructions for home exercises and daily care. Explain what signs to watch for if things get worse. Families should feel free to ask questions at any stage. Offer tips for daily challenges, such as managing addiction during holidays, when stress and temptations can rise. Share simple dos and don’ts that can help them avoid common mistakes. Also, include caregivers in progress talks to keep everyone informed.

When families feel supported and prepared, they stay strong partners in care. Their steady help boosts patient confidence and makes rehab goals easier to reach.

Use Technology to Improve Care

Technology can make rehab easier, faster, and more personal. Using simple tech tools that fit patient needs enables healthcare professionals to support better rehab outcomes.

For instance, telehealth visits help patients check in without leaving home. Mobile apps remind them to do daily exercises and track progress. Video calls keep families involved, even from far away. These easy-to-use tools help patients stay on plan and share updates with their team.

However, before using new tools, show patients how they work. Keep instructions short and clear. Pick apps or devices that match the patient’s skill level. Use online reports to spot problems early. Keep in mind that tech should not replace human care but add to it.

Smart tools save time and help patients feel connected and supported every step of the way. When used right, technology builds trust and stronger rehab results.

Provide Ongoing Training for Staff

Good rehab care depends on skilled, confident staff. Staying trained and informed is crucial so that healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes. Regular training keeps everyone updated on new methods and tools.

Short courses or workshops can also refresh key skills and add new ones. Peer reviews help staff learn from each other’s strengths. Simple feedback sessions fix small problems before they grow. Encourage open talks about what works and what needs to change. All of this builds a work culture where learning never stops.

When staff feel ready and supported, they give better care. Patients notice this and trust the team more. Strong training programs lead to clear plans, safe care, and steady progress for every patient. Skilled teams make real recovery possible.

Address Mental and Emotional Health

Rehab is not just about the body; the mind matters too. Stress, fear, and low mood can slow recovery and weaken progress. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by caring for mental and emotional health alongside physical healing (Kelly, J. F., & Greene, M. C., 2014).

Watch for signs of anxiety or depression. Take time to listen if a patient feels overwhelmed. You can always offer simple stress tips, such as deep breathing or light exercise. If needed, connect patients with counselors for extra help. Use group support when possible to help patients share and heal together.

For some, knowing the connection between addiction and mental health can make it easier to talk about hidden struggles. When mental health is cared for, patients stay stronger, stick with treatment, and see real gains that last far beyond rehab.

Promote Long-Term Self-Management

Rehab does not end when formal treatment stops. Patients still need tools to manage their own care at home. Healthcare professionals can teach them long-term self-management skills. First, show patients how to track progress and spot warning signs early. Give them simple, clear guides they can follow along. Also, encourage healthy habits that keep recovery strong. Check-in often, even after discharge, to keep support steady.

Here are some key steps to promote self-management:

  • Teach safe home exercises and stretches.
  • Provide easy checklists for daily care tasks.
  • Share a simple meal or sleep tips to boost recovery.
  • Set up reminders for follow-up visits.
  • Encourage patients to keep a journal of progress.

When patients take charge of their own care, they stay more active and confident. Good self-management keeps rehab results strong for life.

Keep Improving Rehab Together

Better rehab outcomes depend on strong support, clear plans, and trust. By using simple steps each day, healthcare teams can help patients recover faster and safer. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes when they stay trained, listen closely, and adjust plans to fit each person’s needs. Small actions add up to big results. Keep sharing what works with your team and stay open to new ideas. Patients count on you to guide them back to a stronger, healthier life. So, stay committed, stay informed, and help every patient reach their best possible recovery.

Author bio

Alex Alonso is the COO of Bright Futures Treatment Center and a strong advocate for patient-focused rehabilitation. He works closely with healthcare teams to ensure every patient gets the support they need for lasting recovery. Alex believes that clear communication and teamwork help healthcare professionals support better rehab outcomes every day.

 

 

References

Epstein, R. M., & Street, R. L. (2011). The values and value of patient-centered care. Annals of Family Medicine, 9(2), 100–103. Access here

Ha, J. F., & Longnecker, N. (2010). Doctor-patient communication: A review. Ochsner Journal, 10(1), 38–43. Access here

Kelly, J. F., & Greene, M. C. (2014). Where there’s a will, there’s a way: A longitudinal investigation of the interplay between recovery motivation and self-efficacy in predicting recovery pathways and outcomes. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, 28(3), 928–934. Access here

Zwarenstein, M., Goldman, J., & Reeves, S. (2023). Interprofessional collaboration: Effects of practice-based interventions on professional practice and healthcare outcomes. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2023(5), CD000072. Access here

Additional resources

Wade, D. T. (2020). What is rehabilitation? An empirical investigation leading to an evidence-based description. Clinical Rehabilitation, 34(5), 571–583.
Access here

Turner-Stokes, L. (2008). Evidence for the effectiveness of multidisciplinary rehabilitation following acquired brain injury: A synthesis of two systematic approaches. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 40(9), 691–701. Access here

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

How Micro-Traumas and Daily Stress Accumulate into Addictive Coping Mechanisms

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Facing stress through healthier life styles and prevention. Please also review AIHCP's Stress Management Consulting Certification

Written by Rachel Monroe,

Micro-traumas and daily stressors often go unnoticed in both clinical settings and everyday conversations. They accumulate into addictive coping mechanisms. Unlike acute traumatic events, micro-traumas refer to small, repeated emotional injuries that accumulate over time, such as persistent criticism, neglect, or low-grade social rejection.

Similarly, daily stress encompasses the recurring pressures of work, caregiving, financial obligations, and interpersonal conflict. While each instance may seem inconsequential on its own, the compounding effect can overwhelm an individual’s psychoogical resilience.

Research increasingly supports the idea that these subtle but chronic exposures to stress contribute to emotional dysregulation and vulnerability to maladaptive coping strategies. For many individuals, this leads to reliance on addictive behaviors, such as substance use, overeating, or compulsive digital engagement, as a way to escape or manage internal distress.

Here, we’ll explore how micro-traumas and routine stressors gradually erode emotional stability, alter neurological functioning, and drive the development of addictive coping mechanisms.

Understanding Micro-Traumas in Psychological Contexts

Micro-traumas, sometimes referred to as “small-t” traumas, involve repeated, subtle forms of psychological harm. These experiences do not meet the clinical threshold of acute trauma, yet they still have lasting effects on emotional health.

Examples include chronic invalidation, emotional neglect, ongoing interpersonal tension, or repeated exposure to environments where safety, autonomy, or dignity are compromised. While often normalized or minimized by individuals and institutions, the cumulative burden of these experiences can significantly disrupt emotional development and coping capacity.

In psychological literature, the concept of allostatic load—the wear and tear on the body and brain due to chronic stress—provides a useful framework for understanding how micro-traumas accumulate. Over time, this load can impair emotional regulation, increase irritability, and trigger symptoms of anxiety and depression (McEwen & Tucker, 2011). Individuals may develop a heightened stress response, marked by hypervigilance or emotional numbing, even in low-threat environments.

Because micro-traumas often occur in environments considered “safe,” such as workplaces, schools, or families, they are frequently overlooked in both self-assessment and clinical evaluation. However, recognizing and addressing these persistent stressors is critical for effective prevention and treatment of behavioral health issues, including addiction.

Daily Stressors as Hidden Contributors to Emotional Dysregulation

Daily stressors are often perceived as a normal part of life, particularly in demanding professional or caregiving roles. These may include tight deadlines, financial uncertainty, caregiving responsibilities, long commutes, or disruptions in personal relationships. While manageable in isolation, the repeated exposure to such pressures without adequate recovery time can lead to chronic psychological strain.

Lazarus and Folkman’s (1984) stress appraisal model emphasizes that how a person perceives and responds to a stressor matters as much as the stressor itself. If individuals consistently perceive daily demands as threatening or overwhelming and feel they lack the resources to cope, the resulting stress can lead to emotional dysregulation. This includes difficulty managing mood, reduced frustration tolerance, and increased reactivity to minor provocations.

Chronic stress exposure also triggers physiological changes. Prolonged activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can impair memory, decision-making, and mood stability (Sapolsky, 2004). Over time, this dysregulation increases vulnerability to mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders and depression, both of which are strongly associated with addictive behaviors.

Healthcare professionals must recognize that daily stress, though socially normalized, plays a critical role in eroding emotional regulation and resilience. This cumulative effect sets the stage for individuals to seek short-term relief through maladaptive behaviors.

The Neurobiology of Stress and Reward

To understand how stress contributes to addiction, it is essential to examine the underlying neurobiology. The body’s response to stress involves several interrelated systems, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and limbic structures such as the amygdala and hippocampus. When exposed to chronic stress, these systems become dysregulated, altering both emotional and behavioral responses.

One key consequence of prolonged stress exposure is a reduction in dopamine activity in the brain’s reward pathways, particularly in the mesolimbic system. Dopamine plays a central role in pleasure, motivation, and reinforcement learning. When dopamine signaling is impaired, individuals may experience anhedonia—a reduced ability to feel pleasure—which can drive them to seek external sources of stimulation or comfort (Volkow et al., 2016).

The “self-medication hypothesis” suggests that individuals under chronic stress are more likely to use substances or behaviors that temporarily increase dopamine levels, such as alcohol, opioids, or even compulsive digital use (Khantzian, 1997). These coping strategies may offer temporary relief but ultimately reinforce neural pathways that prioritize short-term reward over long-term well-being.

Moreover, chronic stress can impair prefrontal cortex function, reducing one’s ability to exert impulse control and weigh long-term consequences. This shift increases susceptibility to compulsive behaviors and weakens adaptive coping strategies, making addiction more likely.

Understanding these biological mechanisms helps healthcare providers better identify patients who may be neurologically primed for addictive coping mechanisms under sustained stress.

Addictive Behaviors and Maladaptive Relief

When prolonged micro-traumas and chronic stress compromise emotional regulation, individuals often turn to coping strategies that provide immediate, if temporary, relief. Addictive coping mechanisms—including substance use, overeating, gambling, compulsive shopping, or excessive screen time—emerge as attempts to escape discomfort rather than address its source.

These behaviors are rooted in negative reinforcement: the removal of emotional pain becomes the reward. Over time, this cycle strengthens, reinforcing reliance on maladaptive habits (Baker, Piper, McCarthy, Majeskie, & Fiore, 2004). Although such behaviors may initially reduce anxiety or emotional distress, they often create new problems—financial strain, social isolation, or health decline—that compound the original stressors.

Addictive coping differs from adaptive strategies in its tendency to escalate in frequency or intensity. For example, occasional alcohol use to relax may evolve into daily dependence when underlying emotional issues remain unresolved. Moreover, the short-term relief provided by addictive behavior impairs the development of healthier alternatives, such as emotional processing, boundary-setting, or social support seeking.

Healthcare professionals should assess whether patients are relying on specific behaviors to manage distress. Screening tools like the CAGE questionnaire or the Brief COPE inventory can offer insight into patterns of avoidance, escape, or dependency. Recognizing addictive coping early allows for targeted intervention, including psychoeducation, behavioral therapy, and support group referral.

Chronic Workplace Stress as Micro-Trauma

Work environments are frequently overlooked as sources of psychological harm, yet they are common settings for micro-trauma. Repeated exposure to unclear expectations, micromanagement, interpersonal tension, or excessive workload can result in a steady accumulation of emotional stress. Although these conditions are often normalized as part of modern professional life, they can generate chronic psychological strain with long-term consequences.

Burnout, now recognized by the World Health Organization as a syndrome resulting from unmanaged workplace stress, is a key example of how occupational conditions can erode emotional well-being. Emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment—hallmarks of burnout—are clear indicators of compromised mental health (WHO, 2019).

For many individuals, the connection between work stress and substance abuse becomes evident over time. The workplace may seem unrelated to addiction at first glance, but studies show that workplace stress fuels addiction by gradually overwhelming a person’s coping reserves. When emotional strain becomes routine and support is absent, some turn to alcohol or drugs for relief. This reinforces a dangerous feedback loop in which the addictive behavior temporarily dulls stress while deepening the underlying problem.

Healthcare professionals must recognize chronic workplace stress as a valid form of micro-trauma. Screening for occupational stressors during intake assessments, especially in addiction counseling settings, may reveal hidden drivers of maladaptive coping. By addressing work-related emotional injuries early, clinicians can reduce the likelihood of substance misuse rooted in workplace trauma.

Behavioral Addiction and Daily Escapism

While substance use disorders are widely recognized in clinical practice, addictive coping mechanisms are often underdiagnosed despite their similar neurological and psychological patterns. Behavioral addictions involve compulsive engagement in non-substance activities that activate reward systems in the brain, offering short-term emotional relief at the expense of long-term well-being. Examples include compulsive internet use, online gaming, binge-watching, gambling, and even excessive exercise or shopping.

Daily stress and micro-traumas increase vulnerability to these behaviors by creating persistent emotional discomfort. When individuals lack adaptive coping skills or social support, repetitive engagement in these activities becomes a form of escapism. Over time, the behaviors evolve into compulsions, often interfering with occupational, academic, or interpersonal functioning.

The World Health Organization has acknowledged behavioral addictions, notably classifying gaming disorder in the ICD-11 as a condition characterized by impaired control and continued use despite negative consequences (WHO, 2018). This classification reflects a broader shift in understanding addiction as a pattern of dysregulated behavior, not just substance misuse.

Clinicians should screen for behavioral addictions alongside traditional substance use disorders, particularly in patients reporting chronic stress or emotional detachment. Effective treatment may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), digital hygiene practices, and mindfulness-based interventions. Early identification allows professionals to redirect patients toward healthier coping mechanisms before the behaviors escalate into entrenched patterns.

Early Identification and Intervention in Clinical Practice

Healthcare providers are uniquely positioned to identify the early signs of maladaptive coping, particularly those rooted in chronic stress and micro-trauma. Because these stressors often go unreported or are minimized by patients, it is essential for clinicians to actively screen for subtle indicators of emotional dysregulation, such as fatigue, irritability, frequent somatic complaints, or shifts in social behavior.

Trauma-informed care models emphasize the need to recognize how stress and trauma, including micro-traumas, affect behavior, cognition, and emotional stability. This approach encourages clinicians to view symptoms through a lens of compassion and inquiry rather than judgment. Integrating simple questions about daily stressors, work satisfaction, and coping routines into assessments can uncover hidden contributors to addiction risk (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2014).

Clinical tools such as the Brief COPE Inventory or the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) can help quantify stress burden and highlight maladaptive coping patterns. If behavioral or substance-related patterns emerge, early referral to mental health services or substance use treatment programs can prevent escalation.

Moreover, patient education on the impact of cumulative stress and coping behavior fosters insight and engagement in the therapeutic process. By addressing the origins of distress, rather than just the symptoms, clinicians can support more sustainable recovery outcomes.

Wrapping Up — How Chronic Stress Contributes To Addictive Mechanisms

The accumulation of micro-traumas and daily stressors poses a significant but often overlooked risk factor for the development of addictive coping mechanisms. While these stressors may appear minor in isolation, their cumulative effect can undermine emotional regulation, alter neurological functioning, and prompt maladaptive behaviors aimed at achieving temporary relief. Over time, these behaviors—whether substance-based or behavioral—can evolve into full-fledged addiction.

Healthcare professionals play a critical role in identifying the subtle indicators of this progression. Recognizing workplace stress, behavioral escapism, and emotionally invalidating environments as valid forms of micro-trauma allows for earlier intervention and more holistic care. Screening tools, trauma-informed assessments, and patient education are practical methods for uncovering the root causes of addiction before they intensify.

Understanding how chronic stress and unresolved emotional strain fuel addictive behavior also challenges the notion that addiction is solely a matter of personal choice or willpower. Instead, it invites a more compassionate and clinically informed approach that considers both the environmental and physiological underpinnings of behavior.

Author bio: Rachel Monroe is a mental health writer with a focus on stress, trauma, and addiction recovery in healthcare settings.

 

 

References

Baker, T. B., Piper, M. E., McCarthy, D. E., Majeskie, M. R., & Fiore, M. C. (2004). Addiction motivation reformulated: An affective processing model of negative reinforcement. Psychological Review, 111(1), 33–51. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.111.1.33

Khantzian, E. J. (1997). The self-medication hypothesis of substance use disorders: A reconsideration and recent applications. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 4(5), 231–244. https://doi.org/10.3109/10673229709030550

Lazarus, R. S., & Folkman, S. (1984). Stress, appraisal, and coping. Springer Publishing.

McEwen, B. S., & Tucker, P. (2011). Critical biological pathways for chronic psychosocial stress and research opportunities to advance the consideration of stress in chemical risk assessment. American Journal of Public Health, 101(S1), S131–S139. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2011.300270

Sapolsky, R. M. (2004). Why zebras don’t get ulcers (3rd ed.). Henry Holt and Company.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014). SAMHSA’s concept of trauma and guidance for a trauma-informed approach (HHS Publication No. SMA14-4884). https://library.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sma14-4884.pdf

Volkow, N. D., Koob, G. F., & McLellan, A. T. (2016). Neurobiologic advances from the brain disease model of addiction. New England Journal of Medicine, 374(4), 363–371. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra1511480

World Health Organization. (2018). International classification of diseases for mortality and morbidity statistics (11th Revision). https://icd.who.int/en

World Health Organization. (2019). Burn-out an “occupational phenomenon”: International classification of diseases. https://www.who.int/mental_health/evidence/burn-out/en/

Little Creek Recovery. (n.d.). Connection between work stress and substance abuse. https://littlecreekrecovery.org/connection-between-work-stress-and-substance-abuse/

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s substance abuse practitioner certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

The Hidden Dangers of Morning Drinking and Alcohol Use During Detox

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

drunk man drinking alcohol at table at night

Written by Jeremy Carter,

Alcohol abuse can take many forms, some of which are so normalized in everyday life that they often go unnoticed or unchallenged. One such behavior is drinking in the morning, particularly before work or daily obligations. This habit is frequently brushed off as a stress reliever or coping mechanism, but it’s actually a red flag that may signal deeper issues, including alcohol dependency.

Even more dangerous is the behavior of drinking alcohol during detox, a time when the body is already under extreme physiological stress. Attempting to detox while continuing to drink—or trying to “wean off” alcohol without medical supervision—can be fatal.

In this article, we’ll break down why these behaviors are warning signs, how they’re connected, and what steps individuals can take toward safe, sustainable recovery.

Morning Drinking: A Serious Warning Sign

The idea of “a little hair of the dog” or a drink to “take the edge off” in the morning is often romanticized in movies or minimized in casual conversation. However, morning drinking is not a harmless quirk—it’s a significant indication that a person may be losing control over their alcohol consumption.

According to LifeSync Malibu, drinking in the morning—especially before work or responsibilities—is both a social and professional risk. More importantly, it may point to an advanced stage of alcohol dependency.

Common characteristics of individuals who engage in morning drinking include:

Physical Dependence

People often use alcohol in the morning to stave off withdrawal symptoms, such as shakiness, nausea, sweating, or anxiety, which begin to emerge after several hours without drinking. This means the body has become reliant on alcohol just to feel “normal.”

Psychological Reliance

Morning drinking may also signal that a person has developed emotional or psychological reliance on alcohol to manage stress, anxiety, or daily obligations. When alcohol becomes a tool for coping rather than occasional enjoyment, that’s a clear red flag.

Functional Alcoholism

This term refers to people who appear to function normally—holding down jobs, maintaining relationships, and fulfilling responsibilities—while secretly struggling with alcohol addiction. Morning drinking is often a part of this hidden pattern.

Repeated morning drinking can lead to:

  • Increased alcohol tolerance
  • Chronic liver damage and other health risks
  • Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety
  • Emotional volatility and interpersonal conflict

It may start as a way to cope with daily stress, but it often evolves into a cycle of addiction that becomes increasingly hard to break without help.

The Link Between Morning Drinking and Alcohol Detox

Morning drinking doesn’t occur in a vacuum—it’s often an early sign of alcohol withdrawal, which sets the stage for the need for detox.

When someone who is alcohol-dependent goes without alcohol for several hours (even just overnight), their central nervous system becomes overstimulated. This happens because alcohol is a depressant, and the brain compensates by increasing excitatory activity. When alcohol is suddenly removed, the system is left unbalanced—leading to withdrawal symptoms.

These symptoms can range from mild to severe:

  • Mild: Anxiety, insomnia, irritability, tremors, sweating
  • Moderate to severe: Seizures, hallucinations, disorientation, high blood pressure
  • Life-threatening: Delirium tremens (DTs), which can lead to death without medical treatment

If someone is drinking in the morning to feel better after a night of not drinking, this is a strong indicator of physical dependence. And when that cycle is broken—by choice or circumstance—it can trigger dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

This is why medical detox is essential for people with a history of morning drinking. It’s not just a matter of willpower; it’s a matter of safety.

Drinking During Detox: A High-Risk, Life-Threatening Behavior

Choosing to detox from alcohol is a brave and necessary first step toward recovery. But drinking during detox, or attempting to “self-detox” by tapering off alcohol without supervision, is extremely dangerous.

As highlighted by Pacific Bay Recovery, drinking alcohol while detoxing undermines the entire detox process and puts the individual at significant risk. Here’s why:

  • Delays the healing process: The body remains in a state of chemical confusion, slowing down the return to normal function.
  • Increases risk of seizures and DTs: Alcohol during detox interferes with the body’s attempt to stabilize, heightening the risk of complications.
  • Hides progress: Ongoing drinking can make it hard to track withdrawal stages, confusing both patients and caregivers.
  • Heightens relapse risk: Self-detoxing rarely leads to successful sobriety and often ends in relapse due to poor symptom management and lack of support.

Many people attempt to “wean off” alcohol by gradually reducing their intake on their own, but without clinical support, this often leads to relapse or severe health events. Medical detox programs offer medications, monitoring, and emotional support to guide individuals through withdrawal as safely as possible.

How to Know If It’s Time for Help

Whether you’ve noticed yourself drinking earlier in the day or you’re considering quitting alcohol altogether, it’s important to assess your relationship with alcohol honestly. Some signs that you might benefit from professional support include:

  • Drinking to relieve hangover symptoms or morning anxiety
  • Hiding how much or how often you drink
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, or insomnia when not drinking
  • Unsuccessfully attempting to quit or cut back
  • Continuing to drink despite negative effects on your health, relationships, or career 

If these behaviors sound familiar, it’s not a sign of weakness—it’s a signal that your body and mind may be asking for help.

Safe Solutions: Medical Detox and Supportive Care

The most effective way to stop drinking safely is through medical detoxification. Detox centers offer a controlled, supportive environment where withdrawal symptoms can be managed and long-term plans can begin.

Here’s what a quality medical detox program typically includes:

  • 24/7 supervision by medical professionals
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to relieve withdrawal symptoms
  • Mental health evaluations to address underlying issues like anxiety, trauma, or depression
  • Transition planning into inpatient or outpatient rehab, therapy, or sober living

After detox, treatment should continue with a personalized plan that includes:

  • Individual and group therapy
  • Family support and education
  • Peer support groups (AA, SMART Recovery, etc.)
  • Holistic and wellness therapies
  • Life skills coaching and relapse prevention planning 

Recovery isn’t just about quitting alcohol—it’s about rebuilding a healthy, meaningful life without it.

Final Thoughts: Respect the Process, Prioritize Your Health

Morning drinking and drinking during detox are more than just habits—they’re serious signs of alcohol dependency that require immediate attention.

These behaviors, while sometimes hidden or rationalized, are dangerous and unsustainable. But there is hope.

If you’re caught in this cycle—or watching a loved one struggle—now is the time to act. Seek guidance from professionals who understand the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of recovery.

You don’t have to do it alone. Recovery is possible, and it starts with one brave, informed decision to get help.

 

Bio: Jeremy Carter is a researcher and writer specializing in higher education, ethical research, and online learning, with a strong focus on healthcare billing and revenue cycle management. With a passion for exploring the intersection of technology, academia, and medical billing, he advocates for accessible and impactful doctoral education. His work highlights the transformative power of digital learning in fostering global collaboration and ethical scholarship.

 

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Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

The Role of Mental Health in Youth Rehab

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Helping family through addiction can be difficult. It can also be difficult to know where to draw the line. Please also review AIHCP's Substance Abuse Counseling Program

Written by Mark San Juan

Can you even imagine a teenager, who is actually a child, locked away in a detention center, struggling with not just the mistake they made, but also the emotional scars they carry? It’s a tragic picture, but it’s the reality of so many of these young people that face a lot more than just legal battles. They fight against trauma, anxiety, and issues with mental health that might have even caused them to be there in the first place.

Sometimes, we think of mental health care as a bonus, especially in rehabilitation, but it’s not a perk; it’s an essential part of the process. If you don’t address the deeper issues, then what chance do these young offenders have of breaking the cycle and being a valuable part of society? Slim to none, that’s what. Current statistical analysis data supports this and reveals the scale of the issue.

The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) has reported that more than 70% of youth in the juvenile justice system experience some form of mental disorder. But only approx. 15% of them receive appropriate/effective treatment.

Youth detention centers absolutely must focus on mental health because it’s the way to heal the offenders and to give them a chance to take control of their future – outside the bars.

2 Reasons Why Mental Health Support Is So Important in Juvenile Rehabilitation

Taking care of mental health is important for everyone, even if you live a normal life, but it’s especially important for those that are vulnerable, like the young people in detention centers.

The Illinois Juvenile Court Act of 1987 (statute) outlines procedures for how to handle juvenile cases, and emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment while mandating consideration of a minor’s mental health needs.

Furthermore, Public Act 102-0193 (signed into law in 2021) amends the Juvenile Court Act to enhance court reviews and oversight. This act has the aim of improving outcomes for minors (especially those with mental health concerns/issues).

If issues with mental health are handled on time, then there’s less chance of future offenses and young offenders have a foundation for a healthier life.

  1. Common Mental Health Issues in Youth Detention

Anxiety and Depression

These are the most common issues and they’re often the consequence of trauma they’ve experienced in the past, being uncertain about their future, and the stress of being in a detention facility.

If they’re not treated, these conditions can result in withdrawal, aggression, and negative behaviors in the future.

Trauma and PTSD

A lot of people in youth detention centers have experienced abuse, violence, and neglect. This can lead to PTSDs, which manifests in flashbacks, serious anxiety, and not being able to trust others.

Anyone in this situation, whether they’re in jail, detention center, or free, has to get help through therapy to work through the trauma and start to heal.

Behavioral Disorders

Conditions like ADHD and ODD (oppositional defiant disorder) can worsen in environments like youth detention centers and as a result, you get conflicts with the staff and other detainees.

Proper mental health support can help with managing these conditions and provide young people with healthier coping mechanisms.

Substance Abuse

Approximately 50% of detained youth have a history of drug/alcohol use. These addictions/dependencies are often masking deeper underlying mental health issues and require specialized treatment approaches to address both the addiction and what’s underneath.

Based on the report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), facilities that have adopted trauma-informed practices have reported a 25% reduction in recidivism rates.

Ignoring substance abuse can worsen the youth’s chances of successfully integrating back into society, and is increasing the risk of recidivism.

  1. What Happens When Mental Health Issues Go Untreated

Increased Risk of Recidivism

With no mental health support, young offenders are far more likely to commit a crime again, and the way to break this cycle is to address the underlying mental health issues.

In fact, According to Mental Health America, youth with untreated mental health issues are far more likely to re-offend. While the data varies from region to region, it still supports this data point.

Let’s take a look at some worldwide data:

Region Recidivism Rate (%) Access to Mental Health Treatment (%) Impact of Treatment on Recidivism Reduction (%)
United States 60 40 25
Canada 50 50 30
Europe 35 70 40
Asia 50 30 15
Africa 70 20 10
Australia 40 65 35

If you take Europe and Africa as an example, you can see a correlation between the rate of reoffending and access to mental health treatment. The data shows that high access to mental health treatment results in a low recidivism rate, and vice-versa.

Of course, other factors (e.g., socio-economic status, exposure to violence/trauma, substance abuse, availability of community resources, family structure, education, etc.) could also be contributing to this, but it goes to show how treatment (or the lack of) can affect reoffending rates at a significant rate.

This way, these young people can develop skills to make better decisions and to control themselves.

Challenges with Rejoining the Society

Untreated mental health issues make life hard in general, but when you have an offender, they’ll also struggle with reintegrating into society, relationships, education, and getting a decent job.

Rehabilitation programs that are actually effective and not just a formality can improve their chances of being a functioning member of the community.

Effects on Relationships with Family and Community

When you deal with mental health issues, you’re not the only one affected; the people around you go through it, too.

If the issues aren’t treated, then the relationships with everyone suffer, and reintegration becomes much more difficult.

(Long-Term) Benefits of Mental Health Support

Today, mental health is being recognized and prioritized in youth rehabilitation at a much larger rate than in the past. And beyond simply helping the youth in question, the correct treatment can have a positive ripple effect on others, as well.

For example, their families, their friends, communities, and society as a whole.

Reduced Crime Rate

As we can see from the table above, effective mental health programs reduce recidivism rates. In the U.S., about a quarter of (future) offenders are being steered off their paths, and are being reintegrated into society.

And that is a good thing. Both for the youth that’s been rehabilitated, so that they can have better lives (outside of detention or correctional facilities), plus there’s also the benefit for the whole society, as they won’t need to experience crime that would’ve otherwise happened.

Community Integration

Rehabilitated youths who’ve received mental health support are more likely to contribute towards their communities (e.g., education, employment, etc.).

Breaking Generational Cycles

When you address mental health issues and correct them, especially in young offenders, you’re helping break cycles of trauma that (possibly) were occurring in preceding generations, but more importantly, pave a brighter future for the next generation.

Legal Support and Advocacy for Survivors of Abuse

There are cases that need more than just mental health support; those that are the most vulnerable and that have suffered abuse. Along with therapists, they need legal representatives to find justice and hold those responsible accountable.

Here’s a deeper dive into this.

Seeking Justice and Accountability

Legal professionals can get justice for detained youth who have gone through abuse.

For example, a youth detention center sexual abuse lawyer can represent these young people and take legal action against those that are responsible. This legal process will hold the guilty party accountable, but it will also help with survivors’ healing because it will show them that they are heard and protected.

Creating Safe Spaces for Disclosure (to Speak Up)

Support also means creating an environment where people feel safe to talk about their experiences.

In 2020, a survey by the PREA Resource Center revealed that juvenile facilities across the U.S. that established confidential reporting systems, saw a 50% increase in abuse disclosures.

Legal representation is here to protect their rights so they can openly share their stories and start to heal.

Working Together for Recovery

Therapists and attorneys can join forces to support the people in juvenile detention centers. Therapy and legal representation can address trauma and also give directions on rights and options.

The Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act (JJDPA) is a Federal Law (established in 1974) that mandates that standards are being enforced for the treatment of juveniles in the U.S. justice system.

This approach makes rehabilitation much more effective and compassionate.

Conclusion

A youth detention center doesn’t hold just young offenders, but also stories of trauma, survival, and hope for change. It’s supposed to be a rehabilitation institution, so the key is to look past the offenders’ mistakes and focus on helping them heal and grow. This can’t happen without addressing mental health issues and for those who have gone through extreme trauma, competent legal representation.

We should all keep in mind that true rehabilitation isn’t serving time but giving people a way to take control of their future and make changes.

And such institutions, with their access to mental health treatments (therapy, support), can surely be life-changing.

 

Author’s Bio

Mark San Juan is a distinguished author and health care professional with a passion for transforming health care delivery through innovative approaches. With over two decades of experience in the field, Mark has established himself as a leading voice in health care reform and patient-centered care.

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification programs and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification

Does Adult ADHD Lead to Alcoholism or Drug Use? 

Posted on by Joseph Gerard

Written by Fay Smith

ADHD is a common diagnosis for kids who struggle in school, but what happens when kids grow up and struggle in their offices, communities, and relationships?

Adults with ADHD have difficult challenges, and many turn to drugs and alcohol to cope.

In this article, we’ll look at how and why that is.

How Adults Cope with ADHD

ADHD presents many challenges for adults, but one of the biggest is regularly lacking dopamine.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is largely responsible for the pleasure that you feel when you accomplish something. A sense of accomplishment boosts you and makes it easier to take on your next tasks. For people with ADHD, this doesn’t happen the same way.

Adults with ADHD have a different reward system than neurotypical adults. A normal work routine, including meetings, might be somewhat boring for an office manager who is neurotypical, but it could send someone with ADHD into a spiral.

Without feeling like they are accomplishing anything important to them, and receiving the dopamine boost that goes along with that, it becomes increasingly hard to concentrate.

Having ADHD and needing to do things you don’t want to do and aren’t interested in can be extremely difficult, and even painful.

It’s a process of trying to force your brain to act in ways it doesn’t want to. The result is usually a drop in neurotransmitters and the onset of depression. Up to 53% of people with ADHD also struggle with depression.

There are legal substances that can provide a lot of help to adults with ADHD. Coffee can help to stimulate the brain to produce more neurotransmitters, and legal CBD can help to relax the nervous system and provide the restful sleep that adults with ADHD need to maintain good brain health. Know more about it here.

However, there are many adults with ADHD who turn to alcohol and drugs – not just to cope with the pain of having ADHD as an adult in a world designed for neurotypical people, but to help manage an unruly brain that won’t seem to follow directions.

Why do ADHD Adults Turn to Drugs and Alcohol?

It’s important to note that every adult with ADHD was once a child with ADHD, and it is typically in pre-adolescence or adolescence when substance abuse problems or tendencies first arise.

An 8-year longitudinal study found that at the age of 14.9, 40% of ADHD subjects and only 22% of control subjects had used alcohol (Barkley et al. 1990). This suggests that alcohol and other drugs are more appealing to people with ADHD in early adolescence.

A different study found that at age 25, alcohol use was roughly equal between ADHD adults and control groups, but we know that early and intense alcohol use is a risk factor for later alcohol and drug problems.

Growing up is when most people start to face increasing demands on their time and attention, which is also when young adults with ADHD begin to face significant struggles and shoulder the shame that comes from not being able to act or be like everyone else.

ADHD adults use drugs to cope, practically and emotionally.

In a practical sense, drugs and alcohol change the brain and produce the mental states that people with ADHD are looking for. When you are unable to feel happy or concentrate, a cup of coffee can help. So can other drugs. When you can’t seem to calm down or regulate your energy or emotions, alcohol can help. So can other drugs.

Neurotypical adults might be able to take a deep breath and restore calm and focus, but this just doesn’t happen for ADHD adults, who struggle to regulate themselves.

On an emotional level, it is easy to blame yourself for your problems as someone with ADHD. An inability to focus can be mistaken as a lack of interest or care. Disinterest in boring and unrewarding tasks can come across as laziness.

Adults with ADHD have to deal with a disabling inability to focus, as well as being blamed personally for that inability to focus.

In a culture that values constant productivity and readiness, adults with ADHD often struggle to regulate their attention and emotions and use drugs or alcohol as tools to cope.

Recovery for Adults with ADHD and Drug Problems

Although alcohol and other drugs might relieve temporary symptoms of ADHD, they invariably make life worse.

This is not just for all of the reasons that you’re familiar with – the cost, the health impacts, the social impacts, etc – but also because alcohol and most other drugs are harmful to the brain and end up making symptoms worse in the long run.

A healthy brain releases more neurotransmitters that help focus and attention. An unhealthy brain doesn’t regulate itself well. When you start messing with your brain’s reward system, it makes it even harder to set things right.

If you or someone you know is an adult with ADHD and a drug or alcohol problem, find a treatment solution that also addresses the impacts of ADHD. True recovery requires solutions to multiple problems.

 

 

Author Bio: Fay Smith

Fay Smith worked in communications for five years before settling down with her husband. She’s now a mother of two young children and takes care of three lovable Pomeranians. Fay Smith is a regular contributor on various health and wellness sites. She also works as a freelance writer and researcher on wellness topics, such as alternative treatments and CBD.

 

 

 

Please also review AIHCP’s Attention Deficit Consulting certificate program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program in online and independent study and open to qualified professionals.