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What Are Recovery Halfway Houses?

The goals of completing treatment may include transitioning from inpatient rehab to a halfway house or sober living facility. In some cases, moving in with family is not an option. There may be substances within the residence that could be enticing to a newly sober person.

Recovery halfway houses and sober living homes are similar stepping stones to independent sober living. Yet they may have different standards and rules. It is crucial to understand the differences to choose what transitional housing will best meet individual needs and wants.  

Defining Recovery Halfway Houses

Halfway houses are a stepping stone from inpatient rehab and living independently.  Additionally, residents in recovery halfway houses might also come from a correctional facility where they were serving time for a drug-related crime. Halfway houses are a protective shield from the pressures and triggers society holds for the newly sober person. It should be noted that there are rules and requirements to adhere to as a resident to continue residency. 

Drug tests are required to monitor sobriety. Mental health, medical and recovery, or educational services are often available. There are chores, rent to pay, and meeting requirements to maintain. Most residents must work or enter occupational education programs, and volunteering is encouraged. 

Are Halfway Houses and Sober Living Homes the Same?

Recovery halfway houses are transitional housing units similar to sober houses, requiring substance-free living. The similarity lies in the residents who are newly sober but not quite ready to live independently.

In the halfway house, there may be a limit on residency and qualifications for entry. People who have detoxed and completed an inpatient program are most likely to be successful in a halfway house. On the other hand, sober living homes provide a safe, structured, and sober environment for people newly sober who want to live a recovery-based lifestyle.

First, all residents must have sobriety; additional support services are readily available. It is ideal for people just completing inpatient rehab, with many sober living opportunities associated with the treatment center the resident came from. Finally, individual therapy and further healthy living education are encouragements for all residents. 

Expectations of residents in a sober living home include:

  • Participation in daily household chores, keeping personal space and belongings organized, neat and clean
  • Participation in a 12-step program 
  • Work part or full-time, or go to school and volunteer regularly
  • Maintain total sobriety
  • Be respectful to all housemates
  • Participate in random drug tests

Benefits of Recovery Halfway House

The benefits of recovery halfway houses after an inpatient treatment program or release from a correctional facility are significant. A higher level of freedom is allowable as long as the resident maintains curfew requirements.

Residents can choose the type of work that suits them and the educational goals that are of personal interest. Living with other residents with similar lifestyle goals and challenges allows them to share the experiences that positively affect them. Guidance and structure remain, but the residents can make significant life decisions for a healthy future. 

Rules, Responsibilities, and Duties

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration states that in 2020, there were approximately 17,943 recovery halfway houses in the US. Clear standards for recovery housing must be in writing so that residents know every rule, expectation, and responsibility.

These environments promote a positive, inclusive, and equitable atmosphere, so when residents are ready to be independent in their new sober lifestyle, they are ready. All residents must participate in performing specific household duties and maintaining personal responsibilities while obeying all the rules. 

Specific rules can vary in each recovery house, but a general idea of expectations is as follows:

  • To remain sober and submit to random drug testing.
  • Be respectful of other residents, their space and property, and the common area
  • Attend 12-step meetings on a regular schedule.
  • Contribute to the house, including chore schedules, and attend house meetings
  • Avoid fighting with other residents.
  • Keep the curfew.
  • Pay rent and choose to work, attend school or occupational program, and consider volunteering in the community.

Recovery Halfway House Goals

When the time comes to leave the inpatient treatment for a substance use disorder, transitioning to a recovery halfway house is the completion of a significant goal. Following inpatient treatment, residents learn how important it is to set goals and plan to achieve them while residing in the recovery halfway house.

Utilizing new tools, such as living in the present moment, avoiding triggers, and continuing to work for personal growth, are integral to achieving new goals. Above all, transitioning to the realization that life is about making goals, attaining them, and setting new goals is healthy and contributes to longevity in sobriety. 

Typical goals to make while residing in the halfway house include:

  • Maintain continual sobriety while sustaining excellent physical and mental health.
  • Determine the parameters for independent living after leaving the halfway house and how to get the ideal living situation.
  • Commit to achieving educational goals by working towards occupational opportunities in a desirable field.
  • Find an occupational opportunity that is long-term, fulfilling, and enjoyable while supportive of lifestyle needs.
  • Work toward building relationships, personal growth, and giving back to the community.

Are They Co-Ed?

There are all types of recovery halfway houses with different residential rulings. Some are co-ed, others gender-specific; in some cases, even expectant mothers are acceptable residents.

Various agencies have their requirements and standards to run these transitional living options, which can address the needs of diverse populations. Leaving inpatient treatment or correctional facility, guidance for a suitable living arrangement is often essential. 

Funding for Recovery Halfway Housing

An essential parameter to consider is the cost of living in a halfway house. Prices are variable, beginning as low as $100 and upwards to $2000 a month.

Geographics are responsible for much of the variation, but amenities are another factor in the price differences. Insurance coverage is sometimes available, with scholarships, grants, and bank loans as other payment options. 

Weigh Options for Transitioning to a Recovery Halfway Housing in Tennessee

Building the foundation for a new life is a huge commitment that requires weighing the pros and cons of the ideal transition home after treatment. Freeman Recovery Center in Tennessee can reveal the benefits of sober living options so that all future decisions revolve around a well-rounded understanding. It is essential to list personal needs and future goals to discover the best option.

Contact Freeman Recovery Center to receive all pertinent information to make the right decision. 

 

Recognizing the Signs of Relapse

Recovery is a process and often includes signs of relapse. In fact, over three-quarters of those who complete treatment relapse within the first year following completion of treatment. Addiction treatment professionals advise making a relapse prevention plan to recognize the signs of early relapse after completing treatment is an essential tool.

For this reason, family and friends must also have an education concerning relapse prevention to support the loved one struggling to stay sober. 

Understanding Why Relapse Occurs

Understanding why relapse occurs is critical to a strong relapse prevention plan. For example, emotional stability is possible through understanding how to recognize emotions and feelings that are challenging to cope with. Mindfulness practice helps to identify when new healthy and positive coping mechanisms can replace old negative and hurtful ones. Consequently, sobriety can continue, and recovery stays steady. 

However, slips in coping happen, and the brain is a powerful entity to deal with. Negative thoughts are easy to return to in times of extreme stress, challenging situations, and quick unplanned change, and they can be signs of early relapse. Without recognizing the significance of particular thought processes, the foundation for relapse is building. Relapse is, by definition, a return to using a substance or alcohol after a period of sobriety, and a mental relapse begins the cycle. 

Suddenly the urges and cravings associated with addiction cause conflicting feelings about sobriety. They glorify their past drug use and forget the negative consequences without understanding how strong these thoughts can be. The pull is strong to use again, and the physical stage of relapse begins when they give in and use the substance again. A strong relapse prevention plan maps out the signs of relapse and steps to take to prevent the initial thoughts from gaining momentum. 

Symptoms of Early Relapse

Those experiencing new sources of stress or a lifestyle change or crisis may trigger signs of early relapse. Managing relapse begins with identifying warning signs, reviewing a written relapse prevention plan, and making plans to prevent relapse. However, signs of relapse can be subtle and difficult to recognize early. A checklist of early signs and symptoms can pinpoint when to reach out for help for relapse prevention. 

The following subtle signs and symptoms of relapse can be unrecognizable when under extreme stress or crisis. If these signs are spotted, visiting a group therapy program may be advisable. 

  • Disruptions in regular eating and sleeping patterns, abandonment of lifestyle structure, and lack of personal hygiene
  • Racing thoughts and an inability to focus or concentrate
  • Negative thoughts overtaking positive coping mechanisms
  • Depression and anxiety symptoms
  • Increased fear, irritability, sadness, agitation, and caution
  • Social withdrawal and increased isolation are often a sign of thoughts of using again and induce feelings of guilt and shame
  • Neglect of essential responsibilities

Factors Contributing to Relapses

People often fail to remember that addiction is a progressive disease and has no foolproof cure. Relapse being a part of addiction, is always possible, so each day must bring a new commitment to sobriety. It is vital to recognize factors contributing to the possibility of relapse.

Group meetings or a sober living program may help to end the relapse and re-establish sobriety. Treatment educational skills must continue daily, and communication with a support team is crucial. Recognizing signs of relapse by addressing the factors contributing to relapse head-on to avoid any possibility of relapse is essential. 

Addressing the factors contributing to relapse is possible by staying aware and present in each moment and practicing mindfulness. The following factors are primary reasons for signs of early relapse. 

  • Chronically increased stress levels: Addiction often occurs as a coping mechanism for stress. Learning healthier and more positive coping mechanisms is vital to recovery, but practice allows for strength in the new habits. Early signs of relapse add a higher stress level once negative thoughts occur, and using again enters into thought processes to relieve the pressure. 
  • Return of denial: Denial of relapse is one of the signs of relapse. Refusal to admit to relapsing or thinking of using again will cause resistance to asking for help. 
  • Losing faith in the recovery program: When things get hard or boredom may happen, some in recovery view their program negatively. Suddenly every support, program, or process is not feeling helpful, and struggles begin, and at times hostility sets in. Loss of commitment to sobriety is one of the early signs of relapse. 

What To Do If Someone Is Relapsing?

Relapse can spiral quickly and addiction can return if there is not an immediate response through outside support. Relapse triggers feelings of loss of control and initiates feelings of guilt and shame. Afraid of rejection, depressed and anxious, those who relapse often try to hide their substance use. In many cases, embarrassment of relapsing increases feelings of loneliness and frustration, increasing the need to use. 

It is essential to reach out with understanding and a nonjudgmental voice to encourage a loved one who is relapsing to contact their therapist, treatment center, or group. The signs of relapse are very noticeable, so the faster the response, the better. Be proactive and help your loved one contact their healthcare provider or therapist to recommit to sobriety. Overall, do not engage in any negative relationship habits that enable your loved one to re-establish the addiction. 

Receive Help for the Early Signs of Relapse in Tennessee

Finding help for a loved one who has been showing signs of relapse can be a productive and proactive factor in their recovery. Contact Freeman Recovery Center to reestablish a connection with a treatment professional and help your loved one to get back on their recovery program.  

Our services can assist with compassionate care and understanding guidance, call us today. 

What is the Johnson Intervention Method?

The Johnson Intervention Method began as a brainstorm by Dr. Johnson, but studying 200 people in recovery and their circumstances helped reinforce his beliefs. Most study participants sought treatment after a crisis, illness, addiction, or life-altering event involving relationships.

During these sessions, friends, family, co-workers, or loved ones would confront the person about the impact of their behavior. They also present boundaries or consequences if the confronted person doesn’t change. It helps someone become aware of their harmful behaviors and account for them.

Understanding the Johnson Method For Addiction

The Johnson Method is helpful to encourage sobriety and accountability in treatment. Understanding the Johnson Intervention Method is helpful through the words of Vernon Johnson himself:

“It is a myth that alcoholics have some spontaneous insight and then seek treatment. Victims of this disease do not submit to treatment out of spontaneous insight – typically, in our experience they come to their recognition scenes through a buildup of crises that crash through their almost impenetrable defense systems. They are forced to seek help; and when they don’t, they perish miserably.”  – Vernon Johnson, I’ll Quit Tomorrow, 1973.

Sadly, 71,000 people died in 2019 from a drug overdose. In addition, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states in 2020, 20 million people were diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Not only is that alarming, but only 10.3% of those people received substance use disorder treatment.

Those numbers rose as SAMHSA reported in 2017 that 18.7 million people were affected, with 7.6% receiving treatment. The constant remains the proven treatment methodologies continue to be relied upon for successful treatment. This includes the Johnson Intervention Method. In fact, many believe the Johnson Method is a popular intervention method for those with alcohol and drug addictions.

We all have stereotypical thoughts concerning substance use treatment, with interventions initiated by family and friends. The Johnson Intervention Method is similar and relies upon an invitation to the network of possible support people to attend counseling sessions.

Essential support tools are detailed, a review of how an intervention works, then a plan is put into action for the last counseling session. Finally, a counseling session (intervention) includes the support system, the loved one with a substance use disorder, and a therapist. Connecting the loved one with a substance use disorder to a treatment option in a confrontational setting aims to achieve a safe and powerful resolution.

Dr. Vernon Johnson, a priest with an alcohol use disorder developed The Johnson Intervention Method in the 1960s. In addition, he used self-reflection on his personal experience with treatment to determine a safer option. He concluded there did not have to be an experience of “rock bottom” and that family and friends could lead a loved one to treatment. 

The 7 Components of the Johnson Intervention Method

  • Team: An intervention team includes the professional interventionist, family, friends, or other loved ones. 
  • Plan: A carefully outlined plan provides the role of each participating person, the time, and the place.
  • Focus is care: The intervention focuses on the well-being or care of the loved one, not blame. 
  • Focus on substance use only: The main focus is substance use issues only. 
  • Evidence: Verbalizing details of the proof and how substance use has impacted the lives of the family and loved ones.
  • The goal: The primary goal of the intervention is treatment.
  • Options of treatment: Having more than one treatment option is ideal for the loved one to feel like there is some control. 

The Johnson Intervention’s Method Benefits

The Johnson Intervention Method has proven to be one of the most effective methods of connecting someone with a substance use disorder to treatment. In addition, the benefits of this therapeutic technique lie in proof that outpatient treatment and other variations of treatment Dr. Johnson’s method led to a substantial increase in usage.

The Johnson Intervention Method, compared to 4 different modes, proved his clients were more likely to attend and complete treatment. As a result, the other 4 methods had some success, but engagement with the family and loved ones of the client seems to be the most successful option. 

Why Interventions Are Useful for Addiction

Conversely, the benefit extends even further for using the Johnson Intervention Method, as some people believe that the user must reach rock bottom before they reach out for help. Guiding a loved one to treatment using this method prevents rock-bottom situations and brings therapy to end the addiction before the worst-case scenario.

Often referred to as an answer to denial, proof of the crisis the loved one is experiencing in addiction can allow acknowledgment of their reality. Finally, success in avoiding a life-threatening situation in addiction is the first win in accepting treatment. 

The Johnson Intervention Method is a nonjudgmental, caring, loving, and compassionate method of offering treatment to a loved one. An essential component is the team’s objectivity in spelling out their loved one’s reality. Those experiencing a substance use disorder have many defenses to accept the treatment offer. It shows how much the team cares, and their concerns are spoken without hate. 

Explore Intervention Using the Johnson Intervention Method in Tennessee

Freeman Recovery Center offers the Johnson Intervention Method for alcohol use disorder treatment. We also have drug rehab and dual diagnosis treatment to choose from. Visit our website to answer more questions, and message us through our Contact Us page. Once the detox is complete, outpatient or inpatient treatment can follow. Intervention may be just the answer for bringing your loved one with an addiction to seek treatment. 

The Johnson Intervention Method is a powerful and engaging method of bringing a loved one with a substance use disorder to treatment. Freeman Recovery Center in Tennessee offers the option of using this method with your loved one. The success rate of the Johnson Intervention Method has been proven very effective in the successful acceptance of treatment and completion.

Contact our staff to begin the process today. 

What Is Medically-Monitored Detox?

It is a fact that a medically-monitored detox program can be the safest and most comfortable form of detox program. In addition, medically-monitored detox offers the option of medication to lessen the intensity of withdrawal symptoms.

However, detox can be a deal breaker and cause relapse, so making the client comfortable is vital. Finally, only some treatment centers offer this option, so ask what your center option uses. 

What Is Medically-Monitored Detox?

Substance use disorders create chemical changes in the body and mind. In removing the substance, the brain must readjust to the chemical changes and the levels of neurotransmitters. In addition, the body is going through challenges without the substance. Consequently, the medically-monitored detox program provides medical supervision around the clock during detox. 

Someone must monitor dangerous withdrawal symptoms to keep the client safe and comfortable. Likewise, withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person, so having a doctor present with a medically-monitored detox can be lifesaving.

However, factors such as patient age, health, and the number of substances used can affect the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Finally, the history of previous detox experiences might influence expected outcomes. 

Symptoms may include any of the following symptoms:

  • Digestive issues
  • Anxiety
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Excessive sweating
  • Depression
  • Tremors
  • Confusion
  • Stroke

Medically-monitored detox assures patients the best safety, health, and future sobriety support. However, withdrawal symptoms gradually develop hours after the user’s last dosage. Therefore, peak discomfort and intensity usually occur 3 or 4 days into detox. Finally, the detox process can be as brief as 5 days or longer, depending on several factors. 

What Does the Detox Process Include?

Licensed medical professionals supervise a medically-monitored detox program and have the ability to prescribe medications to assist with uncomfortable symptoms. Once the detox begins, the patient no longer has access to the substance involved with the addiction.

Instead, the supervising physician can reference the substance being detoxed from and decide the best options for medication, which fall into 2 opioid categories. Psychological benefits of medically-monitored detox programs include early intervention techniques to carry on with the treatment program after detox.

Markedly, those who are introduced to recovery techniques early on in detox have less chance of relapsing. Consequently, learning positive coping mechanisms and breathing techniques help to gain self-confidence early on and can help immediately after detox. Finally, those experiencing the detox can begin recognizing the truth in the mind-body connection. 

Medication-Assisted Treatment with Partial Agonists and Antagonist Opioids

Partial agonists produce similar drug effects in the body, although less intense. However, when the body stops responding to the partial agonist, usage is ended. Buprenorphine is commonly used. In addition, antagonists block opioids through attachment to opioid receptors in the brain but don’t activate them. Finally, medical personnel frequently administers Naloxone. 

Clinical treatment staff works harmoniously with medical professionals to address the processing of challenging emotions and feelings that can occur with detox. In addition, medical staff monitors blood pressure, respiration, and other vital body processes throughout detox. As a result, completion of a medically-monitored detox delivers the client to their treatment program to begin therapy. In conclusion, the patient is free from their substance and can progress in sobriety. 

Medically-Monitored Detox Can Address Detox Fears

Those who seek treatment have overwhelming fears of what will transpire during detox. Medically-monitored detox provides professional therapists and treatment staff who can address the fear of withdrawing from their substance.

On the other hand, before the detox begins, an educational session can handle the process safely and compassionately. Above all, patients are always supervised during detox; everyone managing the detox is trained to help process emotions and feelings in intense moments. 

The following fears are most common during detox and immediately after:

  • Fear of the withdrawal, mental and physical symptoms, and pain
  • Fears of what happens after detox or what steps will occur in treatment after detox
  • Fear of the unknown, when the entire world is changing, is challenging to be fearless

The Pros and Cons of Inpatient Detox

The advantages of attending a medically-monitored detox with an inpatient treatment program begin with constant medical and mental care. In addition, inpatient treatment facilities have quick accessibility to handle severe complications. As a result, relapse prevention is much better.

Altogether, the most significant advantage is there is no chance of accessing drugs or alcohol while in an inpatient facility, and the success rate is higher with inpatient detox programs. One disadvantage of detoxing in an inpatient program is the higher cost. However, outpatient detox can cost less and still offer medically-monitored detox.

In either case, detox is imperative as long as it is safely monitored. Another disadvantage of some inpatient treatment centers is that patients may be separated from their personal items. In other words, some centers want the clients to depend on the staff for their needs. 

What Happens After Detox?

Detox is the beginning step to finding sobriety and establishing a new healthy lifestyle. Freeman Recovery Center offers a variety of therapy options that can begin immediately after detox. First, clients can learn how to live sober.

Subsequently, individual therapy is essential for learning about behavioral patterns, thought processes, and situations that led the individual into addiction. And finally, group therapy builds bonds and a support system for sharing everyday experiences and successes in recovery. 

Find Medically-Monitored Detox Help at Freeman Recovery

If you are ready to accept help and seek treatment, Freeman Recovery Center in Tennessee offers the options you desire with medically-monitored detox. In addition, if you are trying to help a family member, explore the evidence-based therapies we offer.

Furthermore, our intake personnel and admission experts can answer any questions and get you through the financial requirements for treatment. Connect through our portal and feel safe with our medically-monitored detox programs. 

 

How Will I Know When I Hit Rock Bottom?

Most people think of hard times when someone says they have hit rock bottom. However, addiction can be the most challenging time of anyone’s life. In treatment terms, the addict has a moment of clarity when the realization happens that the consequences of the addiction outweigh the benefits. In these moments, the person with a substance use disorder ends their denial, stops blaming everyone, and asks for help.

The term “rock bottom” is a term that Alcoholics Anonymous coined as the necessary motivation to seek help for addiction. Much like the stigma that surrounds mental health, at one time, physicians believed addiction was a moral failure instead of a disease. Currently, it is understood that thinking you must hit rock bottom before starting treatment is a myth.

What is Rock Bottom?

A place of heartache, pain, and desperation for those who hit rock bottom in addiction and have reached their breaking point; it can’t get worse. In many situations, rock bottom is reached after a significant event. Whether it is a DUI, losing a job, or losing everything tangible in their world, they must get help. Often rock bottom is the turning point for detox and treatment to begin.

With most people experiencing a substance use disorder, there are warning signs that rock bottom is about to occur. Educated treatment professionals can assess or evaluate the status of the addiction by observing what type of warning signs are present. Unfortunately, those who hit rock bottom have had their share of tough times. Therefore, it is essential to understand that not all people who are addicted will reach rock bottom.

The Warning Signs Before Rock Bottom

If your loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, you may recognize the following warning signs. Drugs and alcohol can devastate every aspect of a person. However, understanding and recognizing these warning signs do not ensure that your loved one will hit rock bottom. Instead, understanding the standard thinking and behaviors of those with substance abuse disorders can help you support your loved one.

  • Hygiene fails when you hit rock bottom. One of addiction’s initial signs or symptoms can be depression. When depressed, it takes too much effort to take care of yourself. No shower, brushing your hair and teeth, and getting out of bed can be impossible. When you hit rock bottom, it is a dark place.
  • Physical illness. When self-care fails, those with a severe substance use disorder experience more extreme physical symptoms. When they hit rock bottom, your mind, and body are broken. General overwhelming feelings of being unwell are triggers for desperation.
  • Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness prevail. Those close to hitting rock bottom feel trapped. When you hit rock bottom and are overwhelmed with suicidal thoughts, it is time to seek help. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States.
  • Alienating the inner circle. When you are in a dark place, you push people away. Then, just before they hit rock bottom, there is a loss of control. Emotions may be high, and dealing with people is impossible so the addict will isolate themselves. In extreme cases, anxiety and panic are extraordinarily high, and some develop agoraphobia.
  • Wild mood swings. Right before addicts hit rock bottom, it’s common for their emotional health to be exhausted. Feeling grumpy, irritable, temperamental, and so restless, no relief exists; the user is on edge. People will want to stay away and steer clear of the negativity. Lashing out at those trying to help is not uncommon.

What Happens When You Hit Rock Bottom?

Not every person will hit rock bottom. Likewise, successful sobriety is not dependent upon hitting rock bottom. However, many treatment professionals can connect with the substance abuse user during this turning point. Then, finally, there comes a moment of clarity when the user can accept help.

Feelings of failure are typical for those experiencing a substance use disorder, especially during the rock bottom moments. However, when you hit rock bottom, you can understand the effects of addiction on yourself and everyone around you. Rock bottom represents the worst moments of addiction, and looking back brings a sense of accomplishment for those who undertake treatment. With the help of therapy, the substance user will understand they are not a failure.

Difficulties Found at Rock Bottom

Rock bottom is challenging and painful. Detox is complex and carries discomfort. Those who hit rock bottom and accept help have a mountain to climb. Facing friends and family who have painfully stood by is difficult. However, the initial stages of treatment and becoming sober can be successful with the help of the treatment team and support system.

Medically monitored detox is advisable for long-term addiction. Then, the individual, group, and family therapies can all work together to form a successful treatment plan for a sober future. Most people who have completed treatment do not like to think back to when they hit rock bottom. It is best to look forward, not backward, and live a happy and healthy lifestyle free from addiction.

Find Help When Someone You Love Has Hit Rock Bottom in Tennessee

If you or a loved one is experiencing rock bottom in their addiction, now is the time to reach out to one of our treatment professionals. Freeman Recovery Center understands that the essential moments of rock bottom could be a prime opportunity to accept treatment help. We can schedule an assessment and begin the journey to sobriety quickly. Contact us to speak with our understanding staff now to find help.