Tag: addiction

Help for Dual Diagnosis

Help for Dual Diagnosis

Living with a dual diagnosis, which involves both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder, can be an overwhelming experience. The two conditions often interact and fuel one another, making recovery sometimes complex. However, there is hope and help available through various treatment options.  Getting help for dual diagnosis may include PHP and IOP levels of care that do not require hospitalization.

Outpatient Group Therapy

Outpatient group therapy is a crucial component of dual diagnosis treatment. It offers a supportive and structured environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from others, and develop coping strategies. Here’s why it’s so important:

  1. Peer Support: Dual diagnosis can make people feel isolated and alone. Group therapy connects individuals with others who are facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.
  2. Skill Development: Therapy groups often focus on teaching practical coping skills, such as stress management, communication, and relapse prevention. These skills are essential for managing both mental health and substance use issues.
  3. Accountability: Attending regular group sessions creates a sense of accountability. Knowing that others are relying on you can motivate you to stay committed to your recovery journey.
  4. Feedback and Validation: Group therapy provides a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings. Receiving feedback and validation from peers and therapists can boost self-esteem and confidence.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A PHP is an intermediate level of care that offers intensive treatment during the day, while allowing patients to return home in the evenings. It is particularly beneficial for those with dual diagnosis because it provides a high level of support and structure. Here’s why PHP can make a difference:

  1. Comprehensive Care: PHPs offer a holistic approach to treatment, addressing both mental health and substance use simultaneously. Patients receive therapy, medication management, and other necessary services in one program.
  2. Structured Routine: Having a daily schedule that includes therapy, group sessions, and activities can help individuals establish a stable routine, reducing the chaos often associated with dual diagnosis.
  3. Immediate Access to Support: In a PHP, individuals have quick access to professional support when they need it. This can be crucial during moments of crisis or temptation.
  4. Transition to Independence: PHPs gradually transition patients back into their daily lives, empowering them to apply the skills they’ve learned in a real-world context.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

IOPs offer a flexible treatment option that provides the necessary support and structure while allowing individuals to maintain their daily responsibilities such as work, school, or family commitments. Here’s why IOP is an essential part of dual diagnosis treatment:

  1. Flexibility: IOPs offer sessions in the evenings or on weekends, accommodating individuals with busy schedules. This flexibility ensures that treatment can be integrated into daily life.
  2. Ongoing Support: Even after completing a PHP, individuals may still require ongoing support and structure. IOPs provide this continuity of care, helping individuals maintain their progress.
  3. Relapse Prevention: IOPs often include relapse prevention strategies, helping individuals identify triggers and develop strategies to avoid substance use and manage their mental health.
  4. Community Integration: IOPs encourage individuals to reintegrate into their communities while receiving support. This promotes a sense of normalcy and helps individuals build a sober social network.

Getting help for dual diagnosis is a courageous and important step towards recovery. Outpatient group therapy, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) offer invaluable support and structure, addressing both mental health and substance use issues simultaneously. Remember, recovery is a journey, and seeking help through these programs can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. You don’t have to face dual diagnosis alone; help and hope are always within reach.

The Power of Group Therapy

Addiction is a formidable adversary, gripping individuals in its clutches and often isolating them from the support they need. However, one beacon of hope that has proven to be a transformative force in jumpstarting recovery is group therapy.

Understanding the Isolation of Addiction:

Addiction thrives in isolation, making people feel alone. The shame and stigma associated with substance abuse can be overwhelming, causing many to withdraw from friends, family, and support networks. Group therapy becomes a powerful antidote to this isolation by creating a space where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges.

Building a Supportive Community:

One of the primary benefits of group therapy is the creation of a supportive community. Participants share their experiences, triumphs, and setbacks in a non-judgmental environment where empathy and understanding prevail. The camaraderie that develops within these groups fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance, crucial elements for anyone on the path to recovery.

Shared Understanding and Empathy:

Group therapy provides a platform for individuals to express their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment. In these sessions, participants often find that others share similar struggles and emotions. This shared understanding creates a powerful sense of empathy, as individuals recognize that they are not alone in their journey. This mutual support helps to break down the walls of shame and guilt, paving the way for authentic connection.

Learning from Peers:

Group therapy offers a unique learning environment where individuals can glean insights from their peers. As participants share their coping strategies, challenges, and successes, others can learn valuable tools for managing their own recovery. The diversity of experiences within the group enriches the learning process, providing a multitude of perspectives and approaches to overcoming addiction.

Accountability and Motivation:

The group dynamic inherently introduces a level of accountability that can be a driving force for recovery. Knowing that others are invested in their well-being encourages individuals to stay committed to their goals. The shared motivation within the group helps each member to strive for progress, creating a positive feedback loop that propels everyone forward.

Skill Development:

Group therapy sessions incorporate skill-building exercises that equip individuals with practical tools for managing stress, cravings, and triggers. Sessions may include cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness practices, and communication skills. The skills acquired in group therapy become valuable assets that people apply in their daily lives, strengthening their resilience.

Breaking the Cycle of Isolation:

As participants share their stories and challenges, a sense of unity emerges. Breaking the cycle of isolation is a fundamental aspect of addiction recovery, and group therapy serves as a catalyst for this transformation. The connections formed within the group extend beyond the therapy sessions, providing a network of support that individuals can lean on during their toughest moments.

The Power of Group Therapy

In addiction recovery, the power of group therapy weaves together the elements of connection, support, and learning. It jumpstarts the recovery process by breaking down the walls of isolation, fostering empathy, and providing a space for individuals to heal together. Through shared experiences and mutual support, group therapy paves the way for a brighter and sober future.

Why drug addicts don’t accept help

Why drug addicts don’t accept help

While help and support are readily available, it’s often challenging to understand why some people struggling with drug addiction don’t readily accept the assistance offered to them. To comprehend this dilemma, it’s essential to explore the various factors that contribute to an addict’s reluctance to seek or accept help.

1. Denial

Denial is a common defense mechanism among individuals dealing with addiction. Many addicts are unable or unwilling to admit the extent of their problem. They may convince themselves that they can control their substance use or that they don’t have an addiction at all. Accepting help would mean acknowledging their powerlessness over the substance, which can be a painful and daunting process.

2. Fear of Stigma

Society’s stigmatization of addiction often discourages individuals from seeking help. They may worry about being labeled as “addicts” or “junkies,” fearing the consequences of this stigma on their relationships, careers, and overall self-worth. This fear can be a significant barrier to reaching out for assistance.

3. Lack of Awareness

Some addicts may not fully comprehend the nature of addiction and the treatment options available. They may be unaware that addiction is a medical condition that can be treated or that there are effective therapies and support systems in place to help them recover. Education and awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in overcoming this barrier.

4. Distrust of the Healthcare System

For some individuals, past negative experiences with healthcare providers can lead to distrust in the medical system. This distrust can extend to addiction treatment programs, making them reluctant to engage in treatment. Rebuilding trust in healthcare professionals may take time and effort.

5. Fear of Withdrawal

The fear of withdrawal symptoms can be a potent deterrent. Many addicts are aware that seeking help may require them to go through a painful and challenging detoxification process. The fear of withdrawal can be paralyzing, making it easier to continue using substances rather than facing the discomfort of withdrawal.

6. Loss of Coping Mechanism

For some, drugs or alcohol have served as a coping mechanism for dealing with life’s challenges and emotional pain. The idea of giving up their substance of choice can be terrifying because it leaves them without their primary coping mechanism. Learning healthier ways to cope with life’s difficulties is a critical part of addiction recovery.

7. Family and Social Pressures

Family dynamics and social circles can play a significant role in an addict’s reluctance to accept help. They may fear losing their support system if they admit to their addiction or may be coerced into continuing their substance use by peers who are also using drugs.

8. Ambivalence About Recovery

Not all addicts are ready or willing to commit to recovery. They may have mixed feelings about quitting their substance use, torn between their desire for change and the familiarity of their current lifestyle. This ambivalence can make it challenging to accept help.

Why drug addicts don’t accept help.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to why some drug addicts do not readily accept help. Addiction is a deeply personal and multifaceted struggle, influenced by a combination of internal and external factors. It’s essential for society to approach addiction with empathy, understanding, and patience, providing resources and support to help individuals overcome these barriers and take the first steps toward recovery. Addiction recovery is a journey, and those struggling with addiction need both time and the right support to take that crucial step toward a healthier, drug-free life.

Signs of Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol is a widely consumed beverage across the globe, often integrated into social gatherings and celebrations. While moderate alcohol consumption may pose minimal risks for some, it’s crucial to recognize that for others, it can lead to a destructive addiction. Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a chronic disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Understanding the signs of alcohol addiction is essential for early intervention and treatment. Here are some signs of alcohol addiction.

Increased Tolerance:

One of the initial signs of alcohol addiction is the development of tolerance. Individuals find that they need to consume more significant quantities of alcohol to achieve the same effects they used to experience with lower amounts. Gradually, this increased tolerance can lead to excessive and prolonged drinking, heightening the risk of addiction.

Withdrawal Symptoms:

Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to cut down or stop drinking is a red flag for alcohol dependence. These symptoms can be both physical and psychological, such as nausea, anxiety, sweating, tremors, and insomnia. Seeking relief from withdrawal symptoms often drives individuals to continue drinking, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.

Neglecting Responsibilities:

Alcohol addiction can lead to a decline in one’s ability to fulfill responsibilities at work, school, or home. As the focus shifts toward alcohol consumption, individuals may become unreliable, frequently miss deadlines, and show a general lack of interest in previously important obligations.

Escalating Isolation:

Those grappling with alcohol addiction may increasingly withdraw from social circles, isolating themselves from friends and family. The shame, guilt, and fear of judgment associated with addiction often lead individuals to isolate themselves to conceal their struggles, further exacerbating the problem.

Continued Use Despite Consequences:

An alarming sign of alcohol addiction is when an individual persists in drinking despite facing severe consequences. These consequences may include legal troubles, financial strain, damaged relationships, and deteriorating physical and mental health. The inability to recognize or prioritize these adverse outcomes underscores the severity of the addiction.

Preoccupation with Alcohol:

Addiction can consume a person’s thoughts, leading to an overwhelming preoccupation with alcohol. An addicted individual may spend an excessive amount of time thinking about when they will have their next drink, where they will obtain it, and how they will hide their drinking from others.

Failed Attempts to Quit:

Numerous failed attempts to quit drinking or cut back on alcohol consumption can indicate a strong dependency on alcohol. This pattern of relapse often perpetuates feelings of hopelessness and can deter individuals from seeking help.

Understanding signs of alcohol addiction:

Recognizing the signs of alcohol addiction is crucial for supporting those struggling with this debilitating disease. If you or someone you know is displaying these signs, it is essential to seek professional help promptly. Alcohol addiction is a treatable condition, and early intervention can significantly improve the chances of successful recovery.

If you suspect that you or someone close to you may have a problem with alcohol, don’t hesitate to reach out to CAST Centers admission department at 866-283-9885.

Intervention 101

Intervention 101: What is an intervention? It is important to know that not every situation is the same within a family suffering from active addiction. While there is not a one size fits all approach to intervention we wanted to share some insights to educate and inspire those seeking help for a loved one.

Alcohol and drug addiction can profoundly impact not only the individual struggling with the addiction but also their loved ones. Family intervention serves as a powerful tool to confront addiction, express concern, and encourage the individual to seek treatment. At CAST Centers we talk to families everyday about the basics of family intervention and how it can pave the way for recovery and healing.

Understanding Family Intervention

Family intervention is a structured process that involves a gathering of family members and close friends who come together to confront an individual struggling with alcohol or drug addiction. The goal is to communicate their concerns, express love and support, and encourage the individual to seek professional help. Family intervention creates a safe space for open dialogue, allowing family members to express their observations, emotions, and hopes for the individual’s recovery.

Preparing for Intervention

A successful family intervention requires careful planning and preparation. It is essential to educate oneself about addiction, treatment options, and the potential consequences of continuing substance abuse. Engaging a professional interventionist can provide guidance, expertise, and neutrality during the process. Preparing heartfelt letters or statements allows family members to articulate their concerns and express their desire for change. Additionally, making arrangements for treatment options and support services beforehand can facilitate a smoother transition towards recovery.

Conducting the Intervention

During the intervention, family members share their pre-prepared statements, expressing their concerns, observations, and the impact of the addiction on their lives. It is crucial to maintain a non-judgmental and compassionate approach while highlighting the consequences of the addiction. The emphasis should be on expressing love, support, and the potential for a brighter future through treatment. The intervention should conclude with a clear and unified message, outlining the boundaries and consequences if the individual refuses treatment.

After the Intervention

Following the intervention, the individual’s response may vary. They may express a willingness to seek help immediately, or they may need time to reflect and process the intervention. In either case, it is important for the family to follow through with the established boundaries and consequences. Supporting the individual in accessing treatment options, such as rehab programs, counseling, or support groups, is crucial for their recovery journey. Family members may also benefit from attending their own support groups or therapy sessions to address the emotional impact of addiction on their lives.

Family intervention is a powerful intervention strategy that can motivate individuals struggling with alcohol or drug addiction to seek help. By creating a supportive and structured environment, families can foster change, encourage treatment, and provide a solid foundation for healing and recovery for both the individual and their loved ones.

In-person vs online therapy, what’s right for me?

In-person versus online therapy 

Many people have wondered, what is the difference between in-person vs online therapy, what’s right for me? The popularity of online therapy has grown significantly as an increase in online therapy options have become more readily available. More and more people are seeking online help and utilizing virtual sessions for mental health. While there are a number of benefits to virtual care, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, many people benefit more from live, in-person treatment options. Part of the appeal of online therapy is that it offers convenience and accessibility. Convenience may not lead people to the outcomes they are looking to achieve and there are instances where in-person therapy may be a better option. Here are some considerations where in-person therapy may be a more appropriate option than online therapy.

Seeking help for a mental health condition

If you are seeking help for a mental health condition, such as addiction, bipolar disorder, anxiety or depression, in-person therapy is a better option. These conditions require structure, close monitoring, and face-to-face support. Learning to manage these issues in-person therapy helps to effectively detect any worsening symptoms during the course of treatment. Symptoms are often indicated by a person’s body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. This level of observation is difficult to achieve through online therapy. Additionally, for those who are struggling with certain issues, spending too much time at home or looking at screens may be tied to the problem faced.

Benefits of in-person vs online therapy, what’s right for me?

Asking yourself the question is in-person vs online therapy, what’s right for me can be overwhelming. An advantage of in-person therapy is there is a greater opportunity to develop a more meaningful and interactive therapeutic relationship with your therapist or clinician. The therapeutic relationship is essential to the healing process and allows for direct feedback and deeper exploration, which can be limited in some of the available online options. Additionally, technology can pose a number of issues, such as poor internet connection, lack of privacy and other technological challenges.

With online therapy on the rise, accessibility has increased for some and many individuals are seeking help for mental health issues virtually. However, it is important to consider the benefits and disadvantages of online therapy when compared to in-person therapy options based on your individual needs. As always, asking for help is the first step to improving your mental health. Consult with your provider to identify the option that works best for you.

Addiction and the Recovery Process

What is addiction?

Addiction is a complex disorder that can take a tremendous toll on an individual’s physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. Fortunately, there is hope for recovery and a variety of solutions to help people create lasting change in their lives. The process of overcoming addiction can be a transformative experience that leads to a brighter, healthier future. Recovering from addiction can be a challenging journey, but it’s one that’s well worth taking.

What is the addiction recovery process?

While there are many paths to recovery, the process of addiction recovery typically involves a combination of care. This often includes, medical treatment, therapy, counseling, and support from loved ones and healthcare professionals. Some may require detoxification as the first step in recovery, which involves medical professionals and detox programs to monitor an individual during the process. However, recovery from addiction also often requires a combination of behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or motivational interviewing, to help individuals develop the skills and strategies necessary to maintain sobriety. These solutions are commonly provided in therapeutic settings such as Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) – two highly effective options that can help individuals successfully navigate the road to sobriety.

What are outpatient treatment options?

Partial Hospitalization Programs offer a structured, supportive environment for individuals who require intensive treatment for substance abuse disorders. These programs provide a higher level of care than traditional outpatient treatment programs, and typically involve a combination of therapy, case management, and group support. These programs can be a good fit for individuals who require a more intensive level of care, but who do not require 24/7 supervision.

Intensive Outpatient Programs are another highly effective option for individuals recovering from addiction. IOPs are designed to provide a flexible treatment option for those who may not be able to commit to full-time residential treatment. Typically, IOPs offer a combination of group therapy, individual counseling, and family therapy, with a focus on developing coping skills and relapse prevention strategies.

Both PHPs and IOPs can be highly effective options for individuals recovering from addiction. These programs offer a supportive, structured environment that can help individuals develop the skills and strategies necessary to maintain sobriety over the long term. While recovery is never easy, the right treatment program can make all the difference, helping individuals achieve lasting success and a brighter, healthier future.

What is addiction support for recovery?

In addition to addiction treatment programs, support from family, friends, and addiction recovery groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can be an invaluable resource for individuals in recovery. These groups are highly accessible and provide a sense of community, understanding, and accountability that can be critical to maintaining sobriety over the long-term.

It’s important to note that addiction recovery is a lifelong journey, and that relapse is a common occurrence. However, with the right support and resources, individuals can successfully overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. Whether you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, the most important thing is to take the first step and seek help. With the appropriate help and support, recovery is possible. 

Asking For Help Is Not Enough

By Patrick O’Neil, Group Facilitator

The meeting started at noon and I was running late. It used to be when I first got sober I was so self-conscious if I couldn’t be on time I just didn’t go. But these days, with my busy life and even busier schedule, I have to get in a meeting whenever I can. I can’t afford to use the excuse of being late to keep me from going.

Normally with my low attention span, I like to sit up front so I don’t miss anything the speaker says. But when you walk in and they’re already halfway into the readings, your seat options are what’s left, and today that meant in the back of the room with all the newcomers that hadn’t yet made AA a priority. Luckily there was an open chair on the aisle and I quickly sat down.

The secretary was taking care of business and they were passing the 7th tradition basket around. I put in two dollars and handed it across the aisle. Or at least I tried to. The man sitting there had his head down and he was crying. I tapped him on the shoulder, gestured with the basket, and asked if he was okay.

“I can’t do this anymore,” he whispered. He took the basket, and without adding any money, handed it to the woman next to him. Then he turned away from me and hid his head in his hands.

For the next twenty minutes I listened to the speaker share his experience, strength, and hope. He told one story after another defining his drunkalog, and then switched to when he found recovery. The man across the aisle never stopped crying. No one else spoke to him. When he abruptly jumped up and walked out I followed.

“Hey man, what’s your name?” I called out to him as soon as we were both outside.

“Um, Daniel. Why?” He furiously wiped the tears from his face and stared defiantly at me.

“Hey Daniel, my name’s Patrick. Why are you leaving?”

“I need help. No one in there gives a damn.”

“God grant me the serenity

To accept the things I cannot change;

Courage to change the things I can;

And wisdom to know the difference.”

 

— Serenity Prayer

Typical of most newcomers Daniel thought his not so silent crying would attract a fellow alcoholic to ask if he needed help. Unfortunately that doesn’t always work. One of the fundamental cornerstones of Alcoholics Anonymous is learning to ask for the help you need. As that signals to the rest of us that the addict or alcoholic has finally surrendered and, “admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.” Daniel just wasn’t there yet. But he still needed help.

“You need to talk to somebody? I’m listening.”

“Really? Why the hell do you want to help me?”

“Look Daniel. I’ve got over 18 years in the program. I didn’t stay sober this long keeping it to myself. I have to give away what’s been given to me. It’s how it works.”

Daniel stood there, hunched over, staring at the sidewalk, and not making eye contact. Then he quietly started talking. “My life’s a mess. I don’t fit in anywhere. I’m gay and I work in an industry where I can’t be myself. My family disowned me. I’ve been doing meth for ten years. I can’t keep a relationship. I feel like… I’ve been thinking of killing myself.”

“You suicidal now?”

“No, that’s not the point. It’s just that… I’m desperate. I’m so desperate I came here and not one person in that goddamn room even looked at me or introduced themselves.”

“I introduced myself.”

“Yeah, well now that you know me you’ll probably just leave like everyone else in my life.”

“You got a cell phone?”

“Of course I do. I’m not homeless.”

“I wasn’t implying you were. Here, punch in your number.” Daniel slowly inputted his number into my phone. I hit the call button and the phone in his pocket rang. “Now you got my number.”

“Your numbers not going to help me get sober.”

“Well okay, Daniel. Just how are you going to get sober?”

“I don’t know. This is a waste of time.”

“Ever considered going to rehab?”

“I can’t afford that.”

“How do you know? You got insurance?”

“Yeah, and a lot a good it’s done me.”

“I work at a rehab. Let me give you the director of admissions’ number and then you call him.”

“What, this some weird religious place out in the desert? You guys keep me secluded, indoctrinate my gayness to be gloriously cis straight and I’ll find Jesus. Then soon as I get back I’m hitting Grindr and doing meth all over again.”

“Wow. Ah, no man. We’re right here in West Hollywood. CAST Centers. Not only are we LGBTQ-affirmative. But we’re Gay owned and operated.”

“I don’t know… I just…”

“Come on man, call tomorrow. I mean like really, what do you have to lose?”

“I got to go.”

“Hey, I’ll be here next week. See you then?”

“I can’t… I have to go.”

“Call me, okay?”

Daniel didn’t turn around or acknowledge me as he walked away. I went back into the meeting just as they were standing up to pray out. I took my place in the circle and joined in.

“God grant me the serenity; To accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; And wisdom to know the difference.”

My life got busy again after that meeting. I went to work. I hit the gym. I made another two meetings over the weekend. I hung out with my wife. We went out to dinner with friends. I called my father. I text my sponsee that never calls. I did a bunch of domestic stuff like laundry and vacuumed the rug. But I didn’t hear from Daniel.

Monday rolled around and once again I was running late to the meeting. Not quite as late as last week. But I still had to park on the street, as the community center’s parking lot was full.

Thankfully they hadn’t started and there were seats up front. As I walked the aisle I notice the empty chair where Daniel had sat the week before. I looked around for him but he wasn’t there.

When the meeting let out I scrolled through my phone and found his number. I pressed call. It went straight to voicemail and then said the mailbox was full.

A lot of people try to get sober. It’s not easy. It’s a “we” program and they have to ask for help. Some people just aren’t ready. As a recovering addict/alcoholic I always have to be there in case they are.

What is CBT?

By Michael Arndt, Alumni Coordinator, CAST Centers
Follow Michael on Instagram:
@michaelcastcenters

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) was first put into practice by Aaron T. Beck in the 1960’s and has in the ensuing years become an industry standard for evidenced-based care in mental health and addiction treatment. It traces its philosophical roots to a marriage of Greek Stoicism and Eastern mindfulness practices. Stoicism teaches us to essentially challenge our negative, maladaptive or unrealistic thoughts and perceptions of the world around us as a way of living. It is about finding objective truths.  Mindfulness practices teach us to be able to examine our own thoughts and to take them with a grain of salt. The idea behind CBT is that when you are able to reframe these problematic thoughts, you can then move into changing behavior that is not serving you.

CAST Centers recently hosted an in-service for our staff with Dr. Joel Becker, Ph.D who studied with Dr. Aaron T. Beck in the 1970’s in Boston after completing his training at Harvard. He now heads the Cognitive Behavior Associates practice here in Beverly Hills. He has been a leader in CBT since just after its inception. He now spends time working with SGM (sexual and gender minority) clients, in addition to teaching at UCLA in the Department of Psychology and the Geffen School of Medicine, precepting and seeing clients at Cognitive Behavior Associates.

CBT was originally developed with the hope of treating major depression. Over the years it has evolved to include many variations that treat everything from substance use disorders to OCD and anxiety. Offshoots of CBT include the very popular DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) which is primarily used in the treatment of personality disorders like borderline personality disorder. There is also mindfulness CBT, compassion-based CBT among many others, all sharing the same goal but aim to achieve it with slightly different approaches.

Mindfulness is seen across the board in all of the various offshoots of CBT. Mindfulness training teaches us to sort of detach ourselves from our thoughts (or cognitions, hence the word cognitive in CBT) instead of immediately reacting to them or even accepting them as necessarily true. In the recovery world, this is called “the pause.” It is a practice that lessens our reactivity to our thoughts and beliefs. For example, just because I have a negative thought towards my partner does not mean that it is true, or that I am a jerk for thinking it. It is just a thought, and I do not need to act on it. I can pause and ask myself if this thought is true, helpful, or in alignment with how I truly feel when I am coming from a more authentic and relaxed place. Or just because I think of using drugs, or engaging in self-harm does not mean I have to do it.

At its core, CBT is about examining root causes of negative thoughts and then building up towards taking contrary actions and setting goals as a team with the therapist. Over time, and with enough practice, we literally rewire our brains to act more in alignment with what we really want, and to make it second nature to do so. CBT is not the traditional open-ended talk therapy model that most of us think of when we think of therapy. Sitting in a room rehashing our childhoods over and over again with vague insights. It is about action, and implementing new tools into our daily lives. One of the things that sets CAST apart from most treatment centers is that we are very action-oriented. While we believe it is important to address underlying issues, we encourage and support our clients as they decide what kind of life they want for themselves. That is what our programs are all about: helping our clients dig deep and figure out exactly what they want out of life at their core so that they can begin building a life that is theirs and worth fighting for.

CAST Centers recently hosted an in-service for our staff with CBT pioneer, Dr. Joel Becker, Ph.D.

Mourning the Loss of Our Destructive Behaviors

By Michael Arndt, Alumni Coordinator, CAST Centers
Follow Michael on Instagram:
@michaelcastcenters

Usually when we think of loss and mourning, we think of losing someone we love. But there are more kinds of loss than just the kind we experience when we lose someone close to us. There is the kind of loss we experience when we shed behaviors we have used to insulate ourselves from discomfort or a relationship that has run its course or is no longer healthy. It turns out, loss presents itself in similar ways, regardless of what we are mourning the loss of.

It can even be true for giving up drinking or drugs, self-harm, lying, or lashing out in anger. All of these can, for some people, serve the same purpose: to help us deal with feelings we have a low tolerance for. When we start the road to recovery, we actively work to lessen our engagement in these behaviors or rid them from our lives entirely. In doing so, we are often confronted with feeling “torn.” On one hand we know that these behaviors/addictions are destructive, and on the other hand, we cannot imagine life without them.

We also often mourn the loss of our behaviors and addictions. We go through stages where we miss it terribly, even when it is harmful to us. We will avoid going to places that remind of us it, just like we might when we have lost a person or ended a relationship. Some people, especially in early sobriety cannot eat certain foods without thinking too longingly of the drink they used to have with it.

It is also common to go through a phase where we try to bargain and justify, like by saying we’ll only drink wine instead of liquor, or only binge once a week, or self-harm without puncturing skin. Not unlike people do when they lose someone and try to bargain with God or the universe. Making all manner of promises and oaths to have the person brought back or to be able to see them one last time.

When we think of the bonds we create, we almost always view them as bonds between other people. But we also form very close and intimate bonds with our destructive coping mechanisms. They occupy huge parts of our minds and our lives, and over time we become just as attached to them as we do to family, partners, and friends. This explains why they’re so hard to break. It requires a ton of patience and practice and leaning on others to process the experience. It is a relationship, and when we start to view it as a relationship, it becomes easier to speak about, and to say goodbye to.

Life as it is

by Camila B., CAST Centers Alumni

“Life as it is” — the celebrated phrase of Nelson Rodrigues leads us to a constant reflection of the world, of society and of ourselves. This constant search for self-knowledge and life purpose made me think about how we perceive the world and how we find ourselves in it.

We see life through lenses that, throughout our trajectory, have been shaped by our experiences. There are values, addictions, forces and points of development that form our perception. Through these lenses, I used to see a gray world. I’ve always had what I needed, both materially and emotionally. However, I lacked understanding in mental health and life has decided to teach me and wake me up in a brutal way to that matter.

During that process, I have learned that sharing experiences makes the journey smoother. In this way, I began to share through lectures with university and high school students about “Wellbeing and Mental Health“, my experience and knowledge that I had acquired from an experience with a disease as silent as depression.

I was invited to participate as a guest speaker to the “Valorização da vida” (Valuing Life) project here in Brazil, which seeks to open a dialogue with students about interpersonal relationships, values, bullying and mental health. Several role-playing activities and group discussions are proposed to the students, so as to develop in them a critical sense of humanistic education. The project has also been offered to elementary school students (final years) and has been a success. Our students have been empowered to help others and to understand that accepting help is fundamental to our evolution.

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