Have you ever wondered why you do, what you do?
At 10 Acre Ranch, we extend the healing process to also offer disease education workshops to empower individuals with information about the biological underpinnings of chemical dependency.
The foundation of our treatment philosophy is built on a firm belief that while the use of drugs and alcohol begins as a choice, eventually the brain is altered neurologically, triggering cravings and physical withdrawal symptoms. By understanding the biological complexities of addiction, clients can become more aware of the fundamental behavioral and physical response patterns at work to prevent relapse.
3 Ways Drugs and Alcohol Trigger Withdrawal Symptoms
1. Alcohol – Alcohol inhibits the excitatory neurotransmitter (Glutamate), slowing down the nervous system. An abrupt cessation of using alcohol causes the neurotransmitter to resume activity and excites the brain – resulting in anxiety, irritability, agitation and tremors.
2. Cocaine – The use of cocaine primarily impacts norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin – which play important roles in the neurochemistry of the brain. These neurotransmitters control vital biological functions including mood, appetite, sexual functions and blood pressure. When individuals stop using cocaine, the brain chemistry is profoundly altered, triggering symptoms such as paranoia, fatigue, irritability and more.
3. Opioids – Opioid addiction has become one of the most prevalent forms of chemical dependency in recent years. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, of the 21.5 million Americans with a substance use disorder, 1.9 million are addicted to prescription pain relievers. The extended use of opioids dramatically depletes the “feel good” chemicals naturally produced by the brain like dopamine. When the brain is no longer stimulated by opioids, individuals often experience painful withdrawal symptoms including depression, anxiety and insomnia.
By learning to recognize and manage the symptoms commonly associated with detox, you can learn proactive coping strategies and reduce your risk of relapse.
Drug & Alcohol Treatment in California
10 Acre Ranch’s drug and alcohol treatment center educates men 18 and over by providing addiction discussion groups, lectures, workshops, literature, and other resources. The more clients know about the science behind addiction, the more equipped they are to confront their behaviors and retrain their brains. Addiction is a disease that requires a variety of interventional and behavioral modifications. To learn more about our affordable addiction recovery programs and beautiful California facility, get in touch with the 10 Acre Ranch team today.
