7 Proven Drug Intervention Tips for Families

People that struggle with drugs may deny their addiction. They also may fail to recognize the enormous impact their actions have on others. Interventions help people make the connection between their drug use and how it impacts the people around them.

But drug abuse is a complex medical disorder. It’s not an easy habit to kick or admit to having. As a result, holding an intervention with a substance abuser is challenging. Seeking help from an addiction specialist can be the key to overcoming this enormous challenge.

Addiction specialists can help deliver a successful intervention. They can also help you gain the addict's trust, point out her path to change, and deliver the right points of leverage if your loved refuses to get treatment.

Holding an intervention, however, is easier said than done. Interventions are highly-charged emotional events that can be uncomfortable, scary, and confusing. So, hosting one takes work and planning.

Below are seven proven drug intervention tips that increase your chances of hosting a successful intervention.

1.Select participants carefully

Interventions impact addicts the most when their closest family, friends, and colleagues attend. You want people that the person thinks to support him fully. These people can bring the truth right to your loved one's doorstep.

2.Choose what you'll say well in advance

Focus on behaviors and how they hurt attendees. Be specific, detailed, and honest. Don't exaggerate about the examples you're giving. Don't be wishy-washy or provide the person wiggle room. And don't attack your loved one personally. That doesn’t get it done. Instead, emphasize love and care, andexplain to them how you can help.

3.Be ready for almost anything

Shame is a drug abuser's worse nightmare. They'll go to any lengths to hide the shame of their addiction outwardly, so be ready for anything, including anger and violence. Also, talk through the potential reactions that the person may have and how to handle them if they occur. Focus on being calm and honest, and on minimizing the anger that the person may display.

4.Plan a practical way out for the person

Presenting a problem without providing a solution wastes everyone's time. It also risks escalating emotions. So, decide upfront what actions you want your loved one to take. Do you want him to enter rehab? Do you want him to stop using immediately? Do you want to offer him a place to stay that's away from his "triggers?” If you want him to do something, be ready to explain why, when, and how.

5.Address the possibility of inaction beforehand

People require strong motivation to change their thinking and behavior. So, telling someone that you’ll be disappointed if she doesn't, won't cut it. Instead, decide on what the consequences will be if they don't seek help. Consequences might be withdrawing financial support, removing access to shared living arrangements, or firing the person from a job. Also, decide exactly how you will broach the subject.

6.Use warm, open body language

Body language says a lot—, especially in a highly charged situation. Sometimes, your body language says more than your words. Clenching your fists, crossing your arms, and looking exasperated—these things show your loved one you’re frustrated. Instead, try to relax as much as possible, look directly at your loved one, and don't use body language that she could misinterpret as hostile.

7.Choose the right time

Selecting a time when everyone is available. You also want to choose one when you're loved one isn't high, like the morning. Holding an intervention when your loved one is on something is a waste of time. You also want to choose the place carefully. You want a place where the person is comfortable, that’s familiar to him or her, and is private.

These proven drug intervention tips can help you create a meeting that makes an impact and pushes your loved one to act. Holding a successful intervention isn’t easy. So, bringing in a specialist to help you hold an intervention makes sense. Doing so increases the chances you'll succeed with one.

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https://www.theliferecoverycoach.com/single-post/2018/12/31/7-Proven-Drug-Intervention-Tips-for-Families

The importance of exercise during recovery from addiction

For the millions of Americans who are in substance abuse recovery, it’s essential to find ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and the symptoms of depression in healthy ways to avoid relapse.
Follow these tips to fully understand the role of staying active plays on your road to recovery - https://www.theliferecoverycoach.com/single-post/2018/11/01/In-Recovery-How-Getting-Active-Can-Help

How Better Sleep Habits Can Encourage a Healthier Life

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Did you know there is a link between sleep and mental health? It seems how well you snooze could directly affect your mind’s overall wellness. Here’s how the two are related, as well as what steps you can take to improve your slumber so you can enjoy better mental well-being.

Correlated and Correctable

You might be surprised to hear that there is a direct relationship between how well you sleep and your mental health. However, some studies indicate the two are closely connected, and in fact, several mental health issues can impact your sleep habits — and vice versa. Suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, or bipolar disorder can leave you more inclined to develop insomnia. On the other side of the equation, having insomnia can potentially increase your risk for issues such as depression, but that’s not all. According to research cited by Tuck, people with an addiction are from five to 10 times more apt to have sleep disorders. It’s a slippery slope since people will often self-medicate to manage their issues, whether it’s insomnia, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. What’s more, those recovering from addiction need plenty of sleep to heal. Thankfully, regardless of your situation, there are many ways you can improve your sleep habits to help end unhealthy cycles.

Check Your Sleep Environment

Missing out on shut-eye is a frustrating issue, especially if you realize you would feel better with more sleep. Adjusting your bedroom to be more conducive to sleep quality can be a great first step. For instance, the color of your bedroom walls could be contributing to your tossing and turning at night. Generally speaking, calming shades of earthy colors and pale blues tend to promote better sleep, and bold hues can make you feel more alert. The temperature of your bedroom can also be a factor in how well you sleep, though cooler temps tend to be optimal. Aim for a range between 60 and 68 degrees, depending on your comfort level.

Stick to a Schedule

Adopting a good sleep schedule can help you avoid counting sheep. By going to bed at the same time each night and getting up at the same time each morning, you can effectively train your mind and body when to go to sleep. It’s important, however, to stick to the same schedule every day, even on weekends. Entrepreneur points out that you can also benefit from a nightly ritual. A little time unwinding to help you release from the day’s stressors and events can settle you for better sleep. Think of things that help you let go of your anxieties. Do some stretches, go for a stroll, lay out your things for the next day, and take a warm bath.

Lights Affect Your Nights

Spending time in the sun can have a big impact on how well you sleep at night, and it appears the earlier in the day you can take in some sunlight, the better. Try to get outside for a half-hour or so within the first hour after you rise, and expose both your eyes and your skin to the sun’s rays. Hang out on your porch munching on breakfast and surfing the web, or take a walk with Fido. Then, at the end of the day, plan to spend time in dim lighting for a half-hour or so before turning in for the evening. Avoid using electronics right before going to bed, since the blue light from tablets, televisions, smartphones, and laptops can make you feel more energized. Plan on an unlit, fully dark room for the best sleep quality.

Sleep is important to your mental well-being. So, make some adjustments to your environment and daily habits for better shut-eye. Instead of staring at the ceiling, drift off into restful sleep so you can enjoy a happier, healthier life.

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https://www.theliferecoverycoach.com/single-post/2018/12/15/How-Better-Sleep-Habits-Can-Encourage-a-Healthier-Life