In the realm of addiction recovery, mental health awareness plays a crucial step in the path to healing, helping people understand that their condition is multifaceted and, as a result, requires multidimensional treatment.

Mental Health Awareness Month has been held in May for over 70 years, reminding us how far we’ve come in these decades and how much better treatment has become. But there’s still work to do, and it is all essential to people undergoing addiction recovery journeys.

This journey often involves addressing not only the physical aspects of substance use disorders (SUD) but also the psychological and emotional components, so mental health awareness plays a crucial role in the process.

Let’s explore mental health awareness’s role in recovery and how we can positively impact those around us by spreading this awareness.

The Relationship Between Mental Health and Recovery

Dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorders, is identifying when patients experience both a mental illness and substance use disorder. Many individuals who develop SUDs are also diagnosed with mental disorders, and vice versa. A typical example is someone with depression and alcohol use disorder.

Studies have found that about half of those who experience a mental illness during their lives are also more likely to experience an SUD and vice versa. This relationship highlights the importance of dual diagnosis in treatment plans, as tailored approaches can significantly impact individuals’ recovery outcomes.

Effective treatment of co-occurring disorders requires understanding how these disorders interact and influence each other. All of this means that it’s critical to raise more awareness of the role mental health plays in the recovery process, as someone unaware of the extent of their condition will be less likely to manage and overcome it over the long term.

Educating people on how to recognize symptoms of mental disorders or substance dependency in themselves as well as others is a crucial step in executing early interventions.

Challenges in Identifying Mental Health Issues in Recovery

Despite how common dual diagnosis is, identifying mental health issues within the recovery process can be challenging. Common barriers, such as stigma and lack of awareness, can make them harder to spot, delaying effective interventions.

Moreover, the symptoms of substance use disorders and mental illnesses can overlap, complicating the process of identifying as different but related issues. For example, fatigue and changes in body weight are common symptoms of both substance use disorders and mental health conditions.

Additionally, individuals in recovery may be hesitant to acknowledge or seek help for mental health issues due to fear of judgment or the misconception that these issues are a sign of weakness. They may not be entirely honest or downplay their use of substances and alcohol out of shame or fear of repercussions, or they may not even realize that their habits are unhealthy at all.

By fostering an open dialogue and recognizing early signs, individuals can proactively address mental health concerns, enhancing their overall recovery experience.

The Role of Mental Health Awareness in Recovery

Mental Health Awareness Month offers individuals and families a platform to deepen their understanding and engage with the community.

By participating in awareness initiatives, participants grow a sense of solidarity and empathy, fostering a supportive environment conducive to recovery. Additionally, mental health awareness can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, encouraging more individuals to seek help and support when needed.

By promoting understanding and empathy for people with mental illness, addiction, or both, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those in recovery, enhancing their well-being and chances of positive outcomes.

Enhancing Mental Health Awareness and Support Together

As advocates for mental health awareness, we all play a vital role in enhancing community support and understanding. We can take a proactive approach and leverage available resources to collectively build a more inclusive and compassionate environment for those navigating the challenges of mental health and recovery.

Here’s how you can take action this Mental Health Awareness Month:

• Participating in Mental Health Awareness Month events and other initiatives throughout the year
• Educating yourself about mental health issues
• Sharing what you’ve learned with friends and family
• Participating in online awareness campaigns by posting shareable and personal stories
• Promote safe spaces for honesty and vulnerability to help reduce stigma
• Supporting initiatives that promote mental health and well-being or starting your own

By working together, we can break down barriers to accessing recovery, challenge stigma, and pave the way for a brighter, more empathetic future.

Mental Plays an Important Role in Addiction Recovery

Remember that you don’t have to go through the recovery journey alone. We can commit to wellness and resilience through mental health awareness and support. Reach out to your loved ones if they need help – even just a shoulder to cry on and space to share their story goes a long way.

And if you’re also experiencing mental illness or substance use, remember that there’s no shame in needing help. Speak with your doctor or someone you trust to find the best way to work through your condition at your own pace.

There are many professions linked to alcohol abuse and illicit drug use. The high stakes, long hours, erratic schedules, and exposure to traumatic experiences that many professionals experience lead some to consume alcohol or illegal drugs to cope with the stress.

High addiction rates in specific jobs are a well-known problem in the medical community, with many surveys exploring the reasons why some industries seem to have more problems with addiction than others. 

These are some of the professions with the highest drug use among individuals in them.

1. Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals work long hours, experience the emotional toll of patient care every day, and have easy access to prescription medications, leading to a perfect storm that can contribute to higher risks of substance abuse and addiction. 

As a result, healthcare professionals are not only not immune to the addictions they help overcome, but they are likely to experience them themselves. A 2015 SAMHSA survey shows that healthcare professionals had a 5.5% rate in the past year of substance use disorder, a 5.7% rate in the past month of illicit drug use, and a 4.4% rate in the past month of heavy alcohol use.

2. Law Enforcement and First Responders

Law enforcement officers and first responders such as police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services face daily stress from life-threatening situations, witnessing human suffering, and the responsibility of making split-second decisions. These high-pressure conditions can lead to post-traumatic stress, which may lead some to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.

A 2010 study of police officers in urban areas determined that male and female officers reported alcohol use levels considered to be “at-risk” by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. The rates were 11% for male and 16% for female officers.

3. Lawyers and Legal Professionals

Lawyers and legal professionals operate in high-stress conditions, facing intense pressure to meet deadlines, manage long work hours, and navigate the emotional weight of human suffering in their cases. This environment can foster high levels of anxiety and depression, leading some to self-medicate with substances.

Many legal professionals start abusing substances during their studies. Around 43% of law students have binge drinking in the past two weeks, according to a 2015 study, with about 25% of law students qualifying for alcohol use disorder. Additionally, a Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation survey found that 36% of legal professionals qualify for alcohol use disorder.

These problems are compounded by a reluctance to seek help due to believing that seeking addiction treatment would reduce their chances of passing the bar.

4. Finance and Banking Professionals

Finance and banking professionals work under high stress, for long hours, and face intense pressure to perform. The constant push for success and the high-stakes nature of their work can contribute to significant stress and anxiety that some cope with using substances.

The 2015 SAMHSA survey reveals that professionals in finance and insurance exhibit a 9.4% rate of past-year substance use disorder, a 7.4% rate of past month illicit drug use, and a 7.4% rate of past month heavy alcohol use.

5. Hospitality Industry Workers

Hospitality industry workers experience irregular hours, often for low pay, while managing high customer service demands. All of this takes place in a workplace culture that sometimes normalizes substance use, increasing stress and the risk of addiction.

The SAMHSA survey shows that this sector has some of the highest rates of drug abuse among the surveyed industries, with a 19.1% prevalence of past month illicit drug use, a 16.9% rate of past year substance use disorder, and an 11.8% rate of past month heavy alcohol use. 

6. Arts and Entertainment Professionals

Professionals in the arts and entertainment industries also face erratic schedules, inconsistent income due to the nature of entertainment work, and the pressure to perform to a high level.

Additionally, entertainment workers also have to network and socialize extensively to get ahead, leading to situations where alcohol and drugs can be expected, and there can be a lot of pressure to conform by consuming them with others. Finally, successful artists and entertainers may have to deal with the mental stress of being constantly scrutinized in the public eye.

The 2015 SAMHSA survey data shows that people in these fields reported a 13.7% rate of past month illicit drug use rate, an 11.5% rate of past month heavy alcohol use, and a 12.9% rate of past year substance use disorder rate.

7. Veterans and Military Personnel

Veterans and military personnel have historically endured intense and traumatic experiences during service that can lead to mental health issues like PTSD, which may lead to substance use as a coping mechanism. The culture of stoicism and self-reliance in the military can also deter seeking help, potentially leading to self-medication.

For veterans and military personnel, alcohol is the primary substance of abuse, with 65% of veterans who enter treatment centers experiencing alcoholism. Opioid use is also a concern, with around 13% of veterans who receive opioids for pain developing an opioid use disorder.

Additionally, veterans have a higher risk of abusing prescription drugs than the general population, with around 23% of veterans who received prescription opioids abusing them.

Resources and Support for Professionals with Addiction

Like any person facing addiction, professionals require multifaceted approaches that involve clinical treatment and medications, if necessary, coupled with peer support and self-care practices.

If you need more time to be ready to take the first step toward treatment, talking about it with someone trained to speak with people in your situation may be helpful. SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) offers a confidential, free, 24/7, 365-day-a-year service, providing information in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental or substance use disorders.

This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

Additionally, here are some other resources about addiction and health that professionals may find helpful:

• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): A government agency that shares knowledge about the consequences of alcohol and alcoholism, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment options.
• MedlinePlus: A treasure trove of health information, including substance use disorders.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): This health agency under the Department of Health and Human Services provides statistics and raises awareness about addiction and many other health-related topics.

It’s also important to consider the Department of Labor’s Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA or the Act), which provides employees with up to 12 weeks of job-protected unpaid leave under certain conditions. One such condition is a “serious health condition,” which may include an addiction.

Preventive Measures and Workplace Wellness Initiatives

Helping professionals in industries with high addiction rates may involve industry-specific support programs, raising awareness about the risks of substance use in the industry, and offering counseling and rehabilitation services.

Here are some potential strategies:

• Establishing comprehensive wellness programs. Employers could develop wellness programs beyond physical health, including mental health and substance abuse resources. This can involve providing access to counseling services, mental health leave, and resources for stress management.
• Implementing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). EAPs are workplace interventions designed to help employees resolve personal problems through confidential assessments, short-term counseling, and referrals for additional help.
• Using flexible work arrangements when possible. Flexible work schedules can help employees maintain a better work-life balance, reducing stress and the potential for substance abuse.
• Performing regular screening and health assessments. Regular health assessments that include mental health screenings can help identify issues early.
• Training managers and supervisors. Training leaders to recognize the signs of substance abuse and mental health issues can help spot issues early and provide the preparation they need to intervene appropriately.

Addiction is a complicated condition that manifests uniquely for everyone and certain high-stress industries create conditions where addiction is more likely.

Additional factors like normalized drug use in the workplace, a culture of not sharing vulnerable feelings with peers, and the fear of losing your job if you enter rehab can increase the risk of addiction for many professionals.

With so many factors at play, solutions require individuals and organizations to collaborate in both detecting and treating substance abuse in the workplace. While taking the first step is a very daunting prospect for many, it’s crucial to find recovery at a personal level and promote a culture of wellness in industries with high addiction rates.

Opioids, including oxycodone, are very effective medications for pain, but they have an unfortunate potential for addiction that could lead to misuse and dependence. However, researchers found a relationship between the FDA-approved suvorexant and opioid relapse, determining that it decreased the amount of oxycodone self-administered by opioid-dependent rats.

Now, following that same research, scientists from a Scripps Research study determined that an experimental medication for insomnia, known as DORA-12, could help prevent drug relapse in patients with oxycodone addiction by targeting this common but often overlooked side effect.

Let’s explore how DORA-12 could make opioid addiction treatment safer for everyone if it proves to be safe and effective.

The Cycle of Opioid Addiction and Relapse

The cycle of opioid abuse, addiction, recovery, and relapse has a firm grip on many people’s lives. Here’s how most people’s addiction develops after starting to take opioids:

• Tolerance: As individuals use opioids over time, their brains adjust to the dose, needing larger amounts to achieve the same pain-relieving effects. 
• Dependence: Continued opioid use leads to physical dependence, where the body relies on the drug to function normally. Withdrawal symptoms like shaking and headaches occur when attempting to stop or reduce usage.
• Abuse: This stage involves the misuse of opioids, such as taking higher doses than prescribed or obtaining them illegally. By now, most people can’t control their cravings for opioids and might even say their bodies need them to function correctly.
• Addiction or opioid use disorder: At this stage, people compulsively seek opioids despite being aware of the negative consequences.

At some point after addiction sets in, people may seek treatment through an inpatient or outpatient facility, but many relapse. In some cases, as much as 90% of people who go through residential opioid treatment relapse at some point, many within a week of leaving the facility.

The Role of Insomnia in Opioid Relapse

People with insomnia experience a higher risk of relapsing back into opioid use. Insomnia can be a condition the individual experienced before addiction, or it can be a result of addiction, a condition known as medication-induced sleep disorder.

Insomnia worsens the risk of relapse by:

• Making people more vulnerable to stress.
• Reducing cognitive functions which can lead to poor decision-making.
• Exacerbating existing mental health conditions can, in turn, increase the risk of relapse as a means to numb negative emotions.
• In cases of chronic sleep deprivation, increasing pain sensitivity (hyperalgesia) leads some to consume opioids to reduce it.

Despite not being as talked about as other factors, sleep disturbances play a significant role in the risk of relapse.  

Study Highlights: DORA-12’s Potential in Preventing Opioid Relapse

In August 2023, scientists found that the insomnia drug DORA-12 yields interesting results on rats who experience oxycodone withdrawal. 

The Study

The study involved administering the experimental insomnia drug DORA-12 to rats that were undergoing withdrawal from oxycodone to determine if the drug could reduce the desire to seek opioids. The researchers monitored the behavior of the rats to determine the effects of DORA-12 on opioid cravings.

The Results

Scientists noticed that rats treated with DORA-12 during withdrawal from oxycodone showed a reduction in drug-seeking behavior. The study doesn’t provide details for how DORA-12 could reduce oxycodone cravings, but the results suggest that the drug potentially mitigates the cravings for opioids.

The researchers also noted differences in responses between male and female rats, which suggests varying impacts based on sex. The drug was less effective in female rats, and males showed pronounced changes in neuron numbers. It could be possible that female animals are more sensitive to oxycodone’s effects and require different DORA-12 doses.

DORA-12 is similar to the FDA-approved drug Belsomra (suvorexant), and research shows that suvorexant decreased the amount of oxycodone self-administered by opioid-dependent rats during binge sessions.

Rats given DORA-12 during their withdrawal period show patterns of behavior and psychological activities seen in animals without opioid dependence, not showing any drug-seeking behaviors even when exposed to cues they had learned to associate with oxycodone. 

Implications for Treatment and Recovery

If the effects researchers observed translate to humans and DORA-12 is approved for safe use, the drug may have the potential to address insomnia as a relapse risk factor. Specialists could integrate DORA-12 into treatment plans for individuals struggling with opioid addiction, particularly those facing significant challenges with insomnia.

DORA-12 could:

• Minimize insomnia in patients going through withdrawal symptoms. Patients who rest better could experience less severe withdrawals, reducing their chances of a relapse.
• Reduce drug-seeking behaviors. The study found that rats treated with DORA-12 during opioid withdrawal showed reduced drug-seeking behavior, even after the treatment ceased.

Both factors have the potential to make withdrawal syndrome much more manageable for people in treatment for opioid addiction. However, it would be essential to consider how the drug affected males and females differently, being less in female rats. All this is currently theoretical, as it could be years before DORA-12 even sees human use in clinical trials.

Still, the research highlights the connection between sleep and addiction. Addressing insomnia during addiction treatment may have far-reaching implications for the prevention and treatment of various substance use disorders.

By recognizing the importance of sleep in addiction recovery and integrating innovative insomnia treatments into recovery programs, healthcare providers could offer more comprehensive and effective care to individuals struggling with addiction.

DORA-12 and the Future of Opioid Addiction Treatment

The research on DORA-12 is a promising breakthrough in treating insomnia as a risk factor for opioid addiction relapse. By targeting insomnia, DORA-12 has shown potential in reducing drug-seeking behavior and enhancing recovery outcomes in opioid-dependent rats.

While it could be years before we even start testing whether this drug could work in humans, innovative research like this shows just how complex addiction is and how many factors play a role in our recovery. 

Even though we need more research to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans, it’s encouraging to know that we have hard-working researchers exploring every possibility to understand opioid addiction and how to treat it.

Getting over addiction is difficult; partially because it involves a literal change of a person’s chemistry and physiology, partially because humans are hardwired to avoid difficult things (biologically, we’re all big fans of the path of least resistance). The key to overcoming our intrinsic resistance to challenging tasks is having the motivation to do so. 

This is especially true when it comes to drug addiction. Science has recognized that motivation is one of the best determinants of whether 1) a person will complete treatment and 2) make the long-term modifications to their behavior necessary to stay sober and avoid relapse. The tricky part about managing motivation is that it has to come from within; it’s not something a therapist can teach you, nor a feeling that a loved one can impart. 

Fortunately, there’s a pretty easy way to trick your brain into getting stoked about getting sober: celebrating your milestones in recovery, both big and small. It’s a simple but impactful practice that reminds us that monumental changes are accomplished by many tiny steps. 

What Are Sobriety Milestones?

Sobriety milestones can be anything you want. One of the most widely known is the sobriety chips given by peer-based support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. Different colored tokens indicate how long a person has been sober, recognizing everything from the first 24 hours of sobriety to the first year. However, sobriety milestones can also be those that you are on your own. 

A milestone could be a mundane activity that would otherwise seem impossible before getting sober. It could be a major bucket list-type accomplishment that’s all about celebrating the life saved from drugs. All that matters is that it’s something meaningful to you. Here are a few examples of non-time-related milestones you might find to be worth celebrating while in recovery:

• Going on a social outing without drinking (or better yet, without having the desire to drink)
• Falling asleep naturally, especially after a hard day
• Using a coping mechanism taught to you by your mental health counselor
• Successfully confronting one of your triggers
• Dealing with a stressful situation without resorting to using drugs

Take a second to think about what your past self would feel is a noteworthy accomplishment. What’s something that the drug-addicted you couldn’t even dream of achieving? Maybe it’s adopting a pet, repaying all the money you borrowed from someone, or mending a broken relationship. Write them down, no matter how grand or how minuscule, then put this list somewhere highly visible. It’ll serve as a great reminder of why you’re staying sober and give you something to look forward to. 

Sobriety Chips Colors & Meanings

Also sometimes referred to as medallions or key tags, sobriety chips are a custom that originated with Alcoholics Anonymous in the 40s. Here are the various colors and what they mean: 

• White: 24 hours sober
• Yellow: 1 month sober
• Gold: 2 months sober
• Green: 3 months sober
• Purple: 4 months sober
• Pink: 5 months sober
• Blue: 6 months sober
• Copper: 7 months sober
• Red: 8 months sober
• Purple: 9 months sober
• Gold: 10 months sober
• Green: 11 months
• Bronze: 1 year sober or longer

Despite how ubiquitous the colorful tokens are with the organization, they’re actually an unofficial practice. Some chapters participate in giving out chips, others do not. If you’re not part of an Alcoholics Anonymous group that gives out chips (or a part of Alcoholics Anonymous at all) but want to commemorate your various time-based milestones, it’s possible to buy these chips for yourself. Note, that the colors used to denote certain amounts of time may vary based on the vendor or AA group. 

How to Celebrate Success in Recovery

There are all sorts of ways to celebrate sobriety milestones — sobriety chips or not. For many people, their first instinct is that celebrating = having a party. While sharing special moments with people you care about can be a wonderful experience, addiction recovery can be an intensely personal experience. If you’re still new to recovery, a party setting could be counterintuitive and end up creating a setting that isn’t conducive to sobriety.

When in doubt, a great way to celebrate is to share your accomplishments with others who are in your shoes. Find a local AA group near you today. You’ll be amongst compassionate and peers who understand the significance of what you’ve accomplished and are experts at celebrating sobriety milestones in a way that supports your commitment to living a healthier, drug-free lifestyle. 

What matters most isn’t how you celebrate these milestones or even what those milestones are, but rather that you feel proud about how far you’ve come and feel excited about the future. 

Millions of people in the United States experience substance abuse every year, but significantly fewer people get the help they need with addiction rehab. The ones fortunate enough to go through rehab greatly benefit from having a solid support system, and family visits are one of the best ways to support a loved one during recovery.

When you visit family members in rehab, you provide emotional support and encouragement while gaining a deeper understanding of how they feel and how their recovery is progressing. However, if your loved one is in an inpatient facility, you may find many rules related to visits, all created to benefit patients.

Let’s explore how family visits work in addiction rehab and what you can do to ensure your visits contribute to your loved one’s recovery as much as possible.

Standard Visitation Policies and Guidelines

When visiting a loved one in rehab, the first thing to know is that inpatient rehab facilities have different rules. That means you should familiarize yourself with your loved one’s specific facility’s rules before visiting. You can usually access this information on the facility’s website.

Many of these policies and guidelines have a lot in common. Since they’re all created with your loved one’s comfort and recovery in mind, you will see some common patterns among them, including the following:

• Visits are not allowed during the initial detox period. Many rehab centers do not allow visits or phone calls during the initial detoxification process. That’s because detox is a critical time for your loved one to focus on withdrawal recovery without external distractions​​​​​​. Even if your loved one doesn’t go through detox, there may be a period where visits are forbidden to help acclimate to their new routine. Some recovery centers allow letters as long as their content aids in recovery.
• Visitor vetting. Many rehab centers conduct a vetting process for visitors to ensure they support the patient’s sobriety. This might include drug testing or other forms of screening​​​​. 
• Pre-visit screenings. Once visitors clear the vetting process, they must undergo a mandatory pre-visit screening each time. This screening ensures visitors don’t bring prohibited items like drugs, alcohol, or sharp objects.
• Patient consent trumps everything. Your loved one’s consent is crucial for every visit to be a positive experience contributing to recovery. Depending on their personality or stage of treatment, they may prefer to avoid having visitors at specific times.
• Visiting hours. After the detox phase, facilities often allow visits during specific hours, in a particular room, on certain days of the week, and for a specified amount of time.
• No food during visits. Many facilities prohibit bringing food during visits.
• Smoking rules. Some facilities might prohibit smoking or limit it to designated areas.
• Family therapy sessions. Many rehab facilities incorporate family therapy as part of the treatment process, providing a structured environment where family visits​​​​ are a tool that directly supports your loved one’s recovery.
• Clergy visits. If your loved one practices a religion, the facility may allow a clergy member to visit them as a “compassionate care” visit.

Each facility has its specific policies, so it’s always good to check directly with the rehab center for their guidelines on family visits, whether via their website or by contacting them. The goal is for your visit to be the most positive experience possible for your loved one, aiding them in long-term recovery.

Dos and Don’ts During Rehab Visits

While every rehabilitation center has its rules, they have many things in common. While these policies may sound strict at times, remember that they exist to help patients ease their minds and focus on recovery.

With that in mind, these are the main things to remember when visiting a loved one in recovery. Here’s what you generally should and shouldn’t do when visiting a loved one in substance abuse rehab.

Dos

1. Follow the facility’s rules and visitation guidelines. Every facility and rehabilitation center has different protocols for how visitations should go. Some require you to stay in a particular space and always have staff nearby to monitor the patient, for example. Speak with the staff for a full explanation and follow the rules.
2. Be supportive. Recovering from a substance use disorder is incredibly difficult. It places mental and physical strain on the patient and more than likely has caused a lot of suffering by the point they begin their rehabilitation. Encourage their efforts and applaud their progress, no matter how small it seems.
3. Respect your loved one’s routine. A predictable routine is essential to recovery, so visitations are usually limited to specific days and times. Do your best to follow this schedule, and if you can’t show up, inform the staff and your loved one that you won’t be there at the agreed-upon time to avoid any confusion or disappointment.
4. Keep the conversation light. As difficult as it sounds, try to keep the conversation away from the heavy topics surrounding recovery. At this stage of recovery, such talk should happen in a safe and controlled environment. Find other topics to discuss to avoid stressing yourself and the patient.
5. Bring them items from home. Familiar items, like blankets, clothes, or family photos, can help patients feel more at home, making their recovery easy. Speak with the staff first to learn what items are allowed.
6. Get to know the staff. Familiarize yourself with the staff to better understand who’s helping your loved one recover.

Don’ts

1. Talk about triggering subjects. Avoid talking about past events or the patient’s substance abuse as much as possible. Complex subjects like these can cause undue stress and hinder their recovery.
2. Start arguments. Substance use disorders indeed create problems not just for the person experiencing it but also for those closest to them. However, bringing negative and volatile emotions into a visit during recovery is counterproductive. For your loved one’s sake and peace of mind, do your best to stay calm and level-headed.
3. Smoke outside of designated areas. Some facilities may have smoking areas or forbid tobacco in the entire building. Make sure you know the rules beforehand.
4. Talk about money. Recovery is often an expensive endeavor, between treatment, financial problems caused by addiction, and the inability to keep a job while staying at a rehab center. Avoid bringing up money troubles or the financial strain of supporting their treatment to the patient – it will only cause feelings of guilt and make it harder for them to focus on getting better.
5. Bring alcohol or drugs to the facility. This is one rule you will find in every reputable rehabilitation center – do not bring the patient any substances, and don’t consume them yourself while in the facility.

Communication Tips and Strategies

Effective communication is critical in helping a loved one recover. Here are some strategies that can help make interactions more effective and supportive:

• Try to put yourself in their shoes. Recognize the challenges your loved one is facing. Even when progress seems slow going, remain supportive of their efforts.
• Give them your full attention. Be a good listener when they try to express themselves. Maintaining eye contact, nodding, and asking relevant questions are ways to practice active listening.
• Respect their boundaries. Likewise, set your own. 
• Maintain contact. Maintain as much or as little contact as you’re both comfortable with.
• Keep an open mind. Always keep an open mind when approaching conflict, and don’t assume you have all the answers. This will help you find common ground and mutual understanding.
• Approach communication with respect. Avoid nagging, guilt trips, bribes, and other sabotaging conversations. Learn to recognize these negative communication patterns not just in yourself but also in your loved one.

Consider therapy and group sessions to practice effective communication. A neutral third party, such as a therapist, can help bridge gaps in understanding and fix strained relationships.

Alternative Ways to Offer Support When You Can’t Visit

Whether it is because your loved one is going through the detox period because you’ve already visited them the maximum amount of times allowed this week, due to geographical distance, or any other reason, not being able to see them can be an emotionally challenging experience for both.

In those cases, it’s important to remember that recovery is multi-factored. As a result, there are many ways to offer support other than your physical presence. These are some of the alternatives you should consider.

• Phone calls and video chats. Many rehab centers may allow phone calls or video chats in addition to visits. This can be a great way to stay in touch and offer emotional support.
• Writing letters or emails. Sending letters or emails can be a personal and thoughtful way to communicate. It gives your loved one something tangible to hold onto and re-read when they need encouragement. As mentioned, keep in mind that letters may need to go through an inspection to prevent smuggling and ensure their content is appropriate for recovery.
• Care packages. Care packages with items like books, journals, or personal care products can be a comforting reminder of your emotional and material support. Keep in mind that food is generally prohibited.
• Attending family therapy sessions. While you can see family therapy sessions as visits, they play a structured role in recovery, so you should go into them with the mindset of adhering to the psychotherapy techniques provided by the counselor.
• Educating yourself about addiction. Learning about addiction and the factors that may have led to your loved one’s substance abuse can help you understand what they’re going through and how best to support them.
• Support groups for family members of people with addiction. Joining a support group for families of those in addiction treatment can be helpful. Groups like Al-Anon provide non-professional support that can help you gain insight from others’ experiences and even more alternative ways to support your loved one.
• Post-rehab planning. As your loved one gets closer to completing the rehab program, you should plan to create a supportive home environment for when they return. You can work with the rehab facility or your loved one’s counselor to create a personalized plan for them.
• Texting. Regular, encouraging text messages can help your loved one feel connected and supported.
• Be positive. Keeping a positive outlook will influence how you interact with your loved one and behave when away from them, resulting in more consistent support for your loved one.
• Financial support. If you are in a position to do so, help your loved one financially as they navigate recovery. You must be careful not to become a financial enabler or sacrifice your finances too much. Still, your financial support can also push them to set up a long-term recovery environment.

Everything you do counts as long as it benefits your loved one. Remember this whenever you feel like your inability to visit them is harming their recovery.

Supporting Your Loved One During Their Recovery

Recovery doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Everyone needs support, and the rehabilitation process involves more than reducing your loved one’s dependency on substances – it also means learning to function again without drugs or alcohol and mending strained relationships. Consider it a form of healing for your loved one and yourself, and know that your support is a crucial factor.

If you want to be more involved in the process, speak with the staff at the facility your loved one is staying in. They’ll likely be able to share many resources with you, point you toward support groups, or set up family therapy sessions. 

Various factors make winter a potentially high-risk season for people with substance use disorder (SUD). First, research shows that opioid overdoses increase in winter. More specifically, fatal overdoses can spike by up to 25% after extended periods of freezing or below-freezing temperatures due to various social, behavioral, and environmental factors.

However, opioids aren’t the only substance that becomes more likely to be consumed in winter. That’s because the cold and lack of sunlight cause a series of emotional and physical changes that make people more vulnerable to mental illness and physical aches, both of which are significant risk factors for SUD.

1. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of major depressive disorder at the same time each year. People with this condition experience symptoms of depression in the same season every year, such as feelings of hopelessness, sleep problems, and unexplained weight changes.

While commonly related to winter, when the temperatures drop and there is less sunlight, SAD can also occur in other seasons. When SAD happens during spring and summer, it is called summer-pattern SAD and is less studied than winter-pattern.

When symptoms begin, some people may try to self-medicate with substances, a common gateway to addiction. Others may try to alleviate their lack of energy through stimulants or numb their negative emotions with alcohol or opioids.

2. Social Isolation

In addition to potentially contributing to mental illness, winter may also lead to less social interactions due to spending less time outdoors. Also, holidays can be isolating for people far from their families or who don’t have strong family connections.

While loneliness is expected in many life situations (moving out of a familiar environment, losing a loved one, etc.), there’s an undeniable link between sustained loneliness like the one some people feel in winter and substance abuse.

A lack of social connection and support can lead to unhealthy behaviors, and experts now recognize loneliness as a significant risk factor for several health conditions, including substance use disorder. It can also exacerbate co-occurring disorders like depression or anxiety, the most common mental illnesses that happen alongside substance abuse.

Furthermore, the cycle of loneliness and substance abuse perpetuates itself, with loneliness inciting substance abuse, in turn leading to further isolation.

3. Proneness to Opioid Use and Fatal Overdose Risks

Cold weather can cause body aches and pains due to changes in barometric pressure that expand and contract tendons, muscles, and scar tissue. This often leads to pain in joints affected by arthritis. Also, low temperatures can thicken the fluids inside joints, causing stiffness exacerbated by being physically inactive.

All these factors increase the risk of opioid use or relapse. Unfortunately, cold weather also increases the risk of fatal opioid overdoses, according to research. The study found a 25% increase in fatal opioid overdoses after periods of freezing temperatures.

The reasons aren’t obvious, but researchers suggest it could be a combination of factors. The main ones are opioids’ impact on respiratory function and body temperature regulation and behavioral changes during cold weather, like using opioids alone, which increases overdose risk.

This shows that a combination of social, behavioral, and environmental factors makes winter a potentially high-risk season for people who use opioids.

4. Holiday Stress

While we usually associate holidays with having a good time with loved ones, they can be stressful when managing family dynamics, budgeting for celebrations, etc. For people who actively experience substance abuse or are in recovery, these stressors can worsen their condition.

Holiday drinking, in particular, is widespread. As people face pressure to drink from peers and the mere presence of alcohol during social events, they may experience triggers and cravings.

Additionally, LGBTQ+ folks are more vulnerable to holiday stress and may resort to drinking to cope with depression, anxiety, and feelings of rejection for expressing their authentic selves.

A few ways to cope with holiday stress-induced alcohol consumption include:

• Bring your non-alcoholic beverages to a social event or focus only on non-alcoholic drinks. 
• Connect with friends and family members who understand and support your sobriety goals.
• Exercise, sleep well, and focus on eating healthy during the holidays.

These strategies can help you manage the stresses of the holidays and the increased risks of substance abuse that come with stress.

5. Economic Hardships During Winter

Winter can be a financially difficult time due to the costs associated with home winterization, utility bills, holiday spending, potential injuries, car maintenance, winter wardrobes, property damage from ice and snow, and other expenses caused by the harsh weather. All these factors can strain your budget, leading to financial stress.

In addition to putting you in a difficult financial position, the potential economic hardships of winter can increase stress and anxiety, which are risk factors for substance abuse.

That’s because financial strain can lead to a low mood and a sense of hopelessness, making some people more likely to use substances as a coping mechanism, especially those with a history of substance abuse. 

According to research, older men are particularly vulnerable to heavy drinking due to financial stress.

6. Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency, or hypovitaminosis D, occurs when people have a below-normal vitamin D level. One of our primary sources of vitamin D is sunlight, so winter’s short days make us more likely to develop a deficiency.

Low vitamin D levels deteriorate our bone health and immune system, leading to a higher risk of experiencing common colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other diseases. Additionally, research shows that low vitamin D levels are associated with more intense symptoms of depression and anxiety, which is why mental health professionals should perform vitamin D screenings when treating these mental illnesses.

A study suggests that low vitamin D levels increase the effects and cravings of opioids, potentially increasing the risk of addiction. Another study suggests that people with severe substance use disorders often also have vitamin D deficiency. The study suggests serum vitamin D concentration may influence the severity of substance abuse.

The relationship between vitamin D, mental illness, and substance abuse is complex and needs more research. However, based on what we know, vitamin D helps our tissues and organs work correctly, so a deficiency may lead to being more vulnerable to mental illness, facing more challenges when recovering from substance abuse, and experiencing higher risks of relapse.

It’s important to remember that substance abuse can potentially co-occur with many physical and mental illnesses, including nutritional deficiencies. As a result, it’s essential to see the bigger picture while also recognizing that vitamin D deficiency during winter can increase substance use and abuse risks.

7. Indoor Winter Lifestyle

Due to the harsh weather conditions, winter often leads to a predominantly indoor lifestyle. As we’ve explored, winter can increase social isolation, contribute to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and minimize vitamin D levels because we’re less exposed to the sun, especially in cloudy regions.

All these factors, when combined with being effectively trapped indoors due to the weather, can lead to an increased risk of experiencing mental illness and substance abuse, especially in people with a history of addiction.

But the indoor winter lifestyle may also introduce boredom into the mix. Although boredom may initially seem a trivial feeling that passes by, it’s a complex emotional state that psychologists don’t fully understand yet. Boredom can have serious consequences, as people who get bored easily face a higher risk of developing:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Addiction
• Problematic gambling
• Eating disorders
• Hostility
• Anger
• Poor social skills
• Poor work and poor academic performance

Engaging in stimulating activities throughout winter can mitigate the risk of boredom contributing to a relapse.

Some examples include new hobbies, learning healthy coping mechanisms, planning outdoor activities when the weather allows it, maintaining social connections, volunteering, and ultimately giving these activities enough time to grow on you and start making a difference in your emotional state.

Seeking Help During the Winter

Winter is a challenging enough season for most people without the added burden of an SUD. Arranging holiday plans, the drop in temperature, and the shorter days resulting in less sunlight can affect your emotional well-being and increase the risks and effects of substance use.

You should be able to enjoy this time of the year as much as anyone else, so if you or a loved one experiences any of the seven factors discussed in this article, seek help for substance use.

SUDs are complex conditions, and we all benefit from support, whether from family and friends or the healthcare system. Taking the first steps may seem impossible, but they will lay the groundwork for your long-term recovery.