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Did you know that modern addiction treatment is rooted in Christian faith-based principles? The psychologist Carl Jung was once faced with a seemingly hopeless case of alcoholism. He told the patient that his only hope was a "spiritual or religious experience – in short, a genuine conversion." That patient's name was Rowland Hazard and he did have a genuine conversion.
Hazard was moved, by Jung's prescription for spiritual change, to seek out the Oxford Group, a Church ministry intended to help men overcome sin. He met and became friends with Bill Wilson, who would be one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. The two recruited more men who were struggling with alcoholism until it was time to form a new group that was specifically intended to focus on addiction. Wilson later wrote to Carl Jung, who responded with some interesting insights. He said, "Alcohol in Latin is “spiritus” and you use the same word for the highest religious experience as well as for the most depraving poison. The helpful formula therefore is: spiritus contra spiritum." That means "spirit against spirit." In other words, addiction is an attempt to fill a spiritual hole, which can only be remedied by spiritual healing. Sin and Addiction Addiction should be treated as a disease--not a moral failing. However, many people with substance use disorders know that addiction often comes with immense guilt because of the moral problems it can cause. Addicted people may relate to the apostle Paul's words in Romans 7:15-20: "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing." Paul is talking about the sinful nature that dwells within Christians, and that they struggle to overcome. But it also sounds very similar to addiction. Many people with substance use disorders know they have to stop but they are unable to stay away from drugs or alcohol. The solution is the same for both sin and addiction and Paul gives the answer at the end of the chapter: "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!" What is Faith-Based Addiction Treatment? From the beginning, Alcoholics Anonymous was centered around realizing your addiction has gotten out of your control and that you need to rely on a "higher power" to help you deal with it. Today, programs like Celebrate Recovery take the basic premise of A.A. and get more specific about who that higher power is--namely Jesus. Faith-based addiction treatment will come with many of the same strategies as secular treatment, including assessment, detox, individual and group therapy, and behavioral therapies. However, it will also focus on spiritual healing--forming or mending your relationship with God through the work of his son. Isolation from your community is the enemy of good mental health. Isolation from God is the enemy of good spiritual health. As Jung put it: "An ordinary man, not protected by an action from above and isolated in society cannot resist the power of evil, which is called very aptly the Devil." Faith-based addiction treatment is about restoring these relationships so you have more power to achieve and maintain your sobriety. Seeking Faith-Based Addiction Treatment If you or a loved one are seeking faith-based addiction treatment that focuses on spiritual healing and restoration, Wings of Life Recovery is here to help. Our program offers a comprehensive approach to recovery, combining evidence-based therapies with a strong emphasis on faith and community support. Take the first step towards healing and contact Wings of Life Recovery today to learn more about our recovery program. Heroin addiction is one of the most common forms of opioid use disorder. In many cases, people start with prescription pain relievers and transition to heroin, which is cheaper and easier to buy illegally. However, heroin addiction is extremely dangerous, because it increases your chances of experiencing a deadly overdose or encountering more powerful substances like fentanyl.
Recognizing the signs of heroin addiction can help you address the problem early, avoiding or mitigating some of the most dangerous consequences of heroin addiction. Understanding Heroin AddictionHeroin is an opioid that was once used in the medical treatment of pain. Today, it has been replaced by other options, and it’s primarily used as an illicit drug of abuse. It’s a highly addictive substance that is made by altering morphine, which is found in poppy plants. As an illegal drug, it can be injected, snorted, or smoked, and produces a rapid sense of euphoria, pain relief, physical and emotional comfort, and other attributes that make it extremely addictive. However, it also comes with serious medical, social, and mental health consequences. Illicit drug use and addiction can take over your life, affecting your health, finances, and family. Many people experience dangerous heroin overdoses, which can be fatal. Others experience infections, malnutrition, and other health issues that are associated with long-term addiction. Addiction makes the drug difficult to quit, especially since heroin withdrawal symptoms are painful and come with powerful drug cravings. Addiction hijacks the brain’s pleasure and reward system, rewiring it to seek heroin above all other positive things in your life. While there is no cure for addiction, it is treatable and can be overcome with help. Physical Signs of Heroin and Opioid UseThere are several physical signs of heroin and opioid use and addiction. Some signs are immediate after using the drug, and others are evidence of long-term use and addiction. Here are a few common physical signs:
Psychological Signs of Heroin and Opioid UseHeroin addiction is a disease that affects the brain, so many of the symptoms are psychological. Here are some common mental signs and symptoms of heroin abuse:
Early Intervention in Heroin AddictionWhen addiction is identified and treated early, it prevents the problem from spiraling into something more severe. Addiction should be addressed before it takes a deeper hold on an individual’s life. Addiction can also take a toll on physical health. It can damage the heart, liver, and brain. Treating it early can help avoid some of these serious health concerns. If you or a loved one is experiencing a heroin use disorder, help is available. Reach out to Wing of Life to learn more about heroin addiction treatment and how you can achieve freedom from active addiction. Embarking on the path of addiction recovery is the first step in taking your life back from active addiction. While each person’s journey is unique, there are common expectations and experiences that individuals with substance use disorder can anticipate during their recovery process. Early Recovery ExpectationsIf you're taking your first steps toward recovery, there are a few things you should know as you dive in. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
What are the First Steps in Addiction Treatment?Addiction treatment programs often begin with an intake and assessment process. Assessments are designed to find out what your needs are going into treatment. Addiction is a disease that affects you physically, mentally, and spiritually. For many, the first step in recovery is something called a biopsychosocial assessment, which explores your biological, psychological, and social needs. Biological Needs in RecoveryBiological needs may include detoxification and medication, but many biological or medical problems are common in addiction treatment. For instance, people who are caught in a cycle of addiction often neglect their daily needs. Poor hygiene and nutrition can lead to medical issues that need to be addressed. Psychological Needs in RecoveryAddiction often comes with psychological comorbidities or simultaneous mental health problems. Many people with a substance use disorder also have depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns that can be addressed during treatment. Social Needs in RecoverySocial issues like isolation, poor social skills, and other problems can make it difficult to cope with life without drugs or alcohol. Many people who are caught in a cycle of long-term addiction, have difficulty connecting with others. Since personal connections are one of the most important ways to combat addiction, social challenges need to be addressed. Common Elements of an Addiction Recovery PlanCreating an addiction recovery plan is a crucial step towards achieving and maintaining sobriety. Here are some common elements that are typically included in an effective recovery plan: Individual and Group TherapyOne-on-one and group therapy are both very common addiction recovery settings. In individual therapy, you will meet with an addiction counselor or therapist to create a treatment plan, analyze it weekly, and talk through behavioral therapies. In group therapy, a counselor will facilitate a discussion between a group of peers. Objectives and GoalsGoals are big, abstract intents to your recovery plan. For instance, achieving and maintaining addiction. It's a big task and it will take a long time and many steps to get it done. Objectives are actionable steps that you can take in the pursuit of your goal. An objective might be to attend group therapy twice this week. It's something you can get done in a short time frame and you know exactly when it's complete. A behavioral health counselor can help you create a plan with goals and objectives. Behavioral TherapiesBehavioral therapies are some of the most common and effective options in addiction treatment. They are evidence-based therapies, which means they have been studied and shown to be effective in treating addiction and mental health issues. Behavioral therapies include:
Taking Your First Steps in RecoveryEmbarking on the path of addiction recovery requires courage, commitment, and support. It's important to remember that recovery is a unique journey for each individual, but common expectations, experiences, and treatment options exist to guide and support you along the way.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, remember that seeking help is the first step towards a healthier and fulfilling life. To take those first steps reach out to Wings of Life Recovery today. Opioids like fentanyl and heroin have the most notoriety in today's addiction problem, but cocaine has been a major issue for decades. Unlike opioids, which achieve a relaxing, comfortable high, cocaine causes excitement and a sense of power. Both can lead to significant health consequences, including addiction.
Cocaine is the third most commonly used illicit drug, with 15 percent of people using it during their lifetime, according to a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) survey. How Does Cocaine Work?As a stimulant cocaine belongs to a class of drugs that increase activity in the central nervous system. They enhance alertness, energy, and focus. Common stimulants include caffeine, amphetamines, and cocaine. Their effects include heightened wakefulness, increased heart rate, and elevated mood. However, prolonged use can lead to addiction, anxiety, and health risks. Cocaine specifically blocks dopamine reuptake, which is the natural process of your brain removing excess dopamine from your nervous system. This causes a buildup, which leads to the drug's primary effects. However, your brain can become desensitized to dopamine over time, which can lead to depression and even anhedonia--the inability to feel pleasure. Cocaine vs. Crack: Methods of UseAs with other drugs, taking cocaine by different methods can change the timing and intensity of its effects. Cocaine can be snorted, ingested orally, or smoked. Typical powered cocaine is very difficult to burn, and can't be smoked easily. To smoke it, cocaine is converted to crack cocaine, which is the same drug in a different form that is easier to burn. Crack cocaine's effects are fast and short-lived, which often leads to binging. A crack binge can lead to long periods without sleep, mental and physical exhaustion, and stimulant psychosis. Stimulant psychosis refers to severe psychological symptoms like delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations, brought on by excessive stimulant use. The Signs of Cocaine AbuseIf you believe a loved one is abusing cocaine, there are a few common signs. Cocaine is fast-acting and causes immediate euphoria, mental alertness, and extreme energy. It can also cause some adverse effects, including dilated pupils, irritability, anxiety, and raised heart rate. The positive effects of cocaine wear off quickly, leaving a long period of fading effects called the comedown. During the comedown, you may feel anxiety, exhaustion, depression, physical discomfort, and insomnia. Cocaine abuse can also start to cause some other noticeable signs, including:
Common Signs of AddictionAddiction comes with some signs and symptoms that are common no matter the drug of abuse. For instance, the addicted person may lose interest in common activities they once enjoyed, and they may isolate themselves from their friends and family. Other common signs include:
Cocaine Addiction Treatment OptionsThere is no cure for addiction, but it can be treated with the right help. There are several evidence-based treatments available that have been proven to help people achieve sobriety from active drug addiction. Behavioral Therapies Counseling helps address underlying issues and develop coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common behavioral therapies, which can help with substance use problems and underlying issues like mental illness. CBT targets thought patterns and behaviors related to drug use. Support Groups Isolation is the enemy of mental health and sobriety. Group therapy and support groups can help you get connected to other people who share similar struggles and goals. Twelve-step programs (e.g., Narcotics Anonymous) provide peer support and encouragement. Looking for Cocaine Addiction TreatmentIf you or a loved one is struggling with cocaine addiction, it's important to seek help. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options can make a significant difference. Take the first step towards recovery by educating yourself about cocaine addiction and exploring available treatment options. Consider reaching out to Wings of Life to get connected to people who share similar struggles and goals. Don't wait, start your journey to sobriety today. Opioid addiction is a top concern in the United States, but other substances continue to be an issue. The cocaine and crack addiction epidemic was the leading behavioral health issue before it was outpaced by opioids, but stimulant drugs still lead to addiction, overdose, and other problems for people all over the country.
Stimulant addiction is a serious issue affecting individuals across the country. Stimulants include cocaine, amphetamines, prescription stimulants, and some synthetic designer drugs. The impact on physical and mental health can be devastating. Let's explore the signs, symptoms, and available treatment options for stimulant addiction. What are Some Common Stimulants? Several prescription and illicit stimulants may lead to abuse and addiction. Nicotine and caffeine are some of the most common stimulants. While they can be addictive, they don't often lead to stimulant use disorders that significantly upend your life. However, other drugs can cause significant substance use disorders, including:
Physical Signs and Symptoms of Stimulant Use Stimulants cause you to feel excited, elated, and energized, typically for a short period before the crash. As they start to wear off, you will feel depressed, tired, and anxious. They work by increasing the release of dopamine in your nervous system or by preventing it from being removed--causing a build-up. While this can make you feel
Other Signs and Symptoms of Stimulant Addiction As a substance use disorder progresses, you may experience psychological, emotional, and social issues. Stimulants cause some psychological effects during active use and a new set of symptoms during the comedown and withdrawal period.
Treatment Options for Stimulant Addiction There are several treatment options for stimulant addiction, and there are no one-size-fits-all addiction treatment options. Detox Medical detox refers to the process of safely withdrawing from toxic and addictive substances under the supervision of a licensed medical team. It’s an essential first step in addiction recovery, though it's not effective as the only step in addiction treatment. Stimulant withdrawal isn't considered life-threatening, but detox can help you get through it more comfortably. During medical detox, professionals may manage withdrawal symptoms using medications and supportive therapies. Behavioral Therapies Behavioral therapy is an umbrella term for various therapeutic approaches that address mental health disorders. It operates on the premise that behaviors are learned and can be modified. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common forms of addiction treatment. Helps individuals recognize triggers and develop coping strategies. Support Groups Isolation is the enemy of good mental and behavioral health. Support groups are a proven method to seek and maintain your recovery. Alcoholics Anonymous developed the initial concept that is used in dozens of other organizations. Seeking Help for Stimulant Addiction If you or someone you know struggles with stimulant addiction, seek professional help. Reach out to Wings of Life to take the first step toward recovery. Remember, recovery is possible, and you’re not alone as you take your first steps toward sobriety. The opioid crisis remains a pressing public health concern, with devastating consequences for individuals and their families. In 2021, the number of people who died from drug overdoses was over six times higher than in 1999. around 75 percent of the nearly 107,000 drug overdose deaths in 2021 involved an opioid.
If you're struggling with an opioid use disorder, it's important to seek help as soon as possible. Because of the influx of powerful opioids, each day in active opioid addiction is dangerous. However, effective treatment and lasting recovery are possible. Here are some factors to consider when going into addiction treatment. Opioid Addiction Treatment Approaches There is no once-size-fits-all opioid addiction treatment plan that works for everyone. Addiction is a complex disease and treatment needs to be personalized for it to be effective. Treatment often begins with a thorough assessment with an addiction counselor or therapist. This often involves a biopsychosocial assessment, which is typically an hour-long questionnaire that determines your biological, psychological, and social needs. Assessment is an important phase of treatment because it's an opportunity for people entering recovery to collaborate with therapy providers to shape their recovery plans. Behavioral Therapies are Important Opioid addiction treatment programs often incorporate behavioral therapies because they are proven to work in clinical testing. Behavioral therapy is a category of therapy that involves helping individuals understand and change potentially self-destructive or unhealthy behaviors. The core idea behind this form of therapy is the principle that all behaviors are learned and that unhealthy behaviors can be changed. Several kinds of behavioral therapy may be used in addiction treatment.
Twelve-Step Programs Are Effective A 12-step program is an approach to treatment designed to assist you in overcoming addiction, compulsion, or other behavioral problems. These programs emphasize personal accountability, the development of a supportive network, and the acknowledgment of a higher power. The Twelve Steps, initially proposed by Alcoholics Anonymous, serve as the foundation for many 12-step programs. However, faith-based twelve-step programs like Celebrate Recovery use the same steps but acknowledge the true and living God of the Bible as the higher power to whom you need to surrender your life. Twelve-step programs are centered around the idea that your life has gotten out of control through the use of an addictive substance. Though it was originally designed for people with alcoholism, it has been incorporated into opioid addiction treatment for many people. Seeking Help for Opioid Addiction Treatment The opioid crisis is an urgent public health concern that requires immediate attention and action. It's essential to understand that addiction is a complex disease, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan. However, with the right support, resources, and evidence-based treatments, recovery is possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, seek help immediately. Reach out to Wings of Life to learn more about treatment options. Remember that recovery is possible, and you don't have to face addiction alone. Together, we can work towards a brighter, healthier future. Addiction is often called a family disease because of the profound impact it has on the family of an individual with a substance use disorder. But the title doesn't just come from its impact on the family. Addiction is also a family disease because substance use problems can often be rooted in family dysfunction. Even when it's not, families often need to come together to learn ways to cope with a substance use problem. What makes addiction so linked to family problems, and how can families address these problems together?
Codependency and EnablingCodependency can have deep roots in families that are struggling with substance use disorders. Codependency refers to an extreme dependency of one person on another who suffers from an addiction. The codependent person’s actions unintentionally worsen or permit the addictive behavior of their loved one, often referred to as enabling. Many codependent adults often had dysfunctional parental relationships during their upbringing. They may have learned that their own needs didn’t matter, focusing instead on meeting their parent’s needs. This pattern continues into adulthood, affecting the relationships they form. In cases of addiction and alcoholism, codependency manifests as good intentions. Family members take over responsibilities like housekeeping, child care, and finances. They may make excuses to protect the person from consequences at work or in relationships. Codependency perpetuates addiction by shielding the addicted individual from consequences. Families need to establish healthy boundaries to avoid enabling behaviors. In many cases, co-dependent family members can also need treatment to learn to set those boundaries. How Does Addiction Affect Families?Substance abuse affects families emotionally, psychologically, financially, and socially. For instance, a parent's preoccupation with alcohol or drugs can lead to neglect or abuse, which is a direct impact of alcohol or drugs on an entire family. However, families can experience the impact of addiction in many ways, including the following:
Approaching the Issue as a FamilyInitiating a conversation about substance abuse with a family member can be difficult but necessary. Compassionate communication and professional intervention can help break down barriers and lead to healing. Approaching an addiction issue as a family can be challenging, but it’s essential for everyone’s well-being.
Learn About Our Family Program Experience lasting recovery and transformation! Join Wings of Life’s 90-day program, rooted in biblical principles. Discover authentic change through structured counseling, mentoring, and vocational training. Be part of a community that equips servant-leaders to have a positive impact on families that are struggling with substance use problems. Contact us to learn more about Wings of Life. Sources American Psychiatric Association. (2017, January). What Is Addiction? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/addiction/what-is-addiction Mager, D. (2016, May 2). Addiction as a family affliction. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/some-assembly-required/201605/addiction-family-affliction Alcohol is one of the most commonly used recreational substances in the United States. While its legal status makes it ubiquitous in our culture, it's no less dangerous than other drugs when it's used excessively.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is the official diagnosis of alcoholism. It's a medical condition in which an individual is unable to stop or control alcohol use even though they experience adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It's considered a brain disorder and can be mild, moderate, or severe, with lasting changes in the brain caused by alcohol misuse perpetuating AUD and making you vulnerable to relapse. What are the alcohol use disorder symptoms? How can you tell it apart from normal alcohol use? Recognizing Alcohol Use Disorder SymptomsAlcohol use problems can affect multiple areas of your life, including your physical, behavioral, and mental health. It may be possible to hide or dismiss the early signs of an alcohol use disorder, but addiction is progressive and will eventually be difficult to ignore. Alcohol use disorders are officially diagnosed using the 11 signs and symptoms listed in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Recognizing the signs of alcoholism in yourself or someone else is important for early intervention. Alcoholism can progress to affect multiple areas of your life if it is ignored. Here are some alcohol use disorder symptoms that you may notice in yourself or a loved one: Physical Symptoms Alcohol can have a significant impact on your body over time, but even some of the early signs are physical. Including the following:
Behavioral Indicators Addiction often comes with behavioral signs. It affects your reward center and rewires your priorities to the point that drinking becomes the most important thing in your life. That can have some significant consequences, including the following:
Psychological Signs Alcoholism and addiction primarily affect your brain and psychological health, which can have physical consequences. However, there are several psychological warning signs, including:
Causes and Risk Factors of Alcohol Use DisordersThe causes and risk factors of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) are multifaceted and can include a combination of genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors. If you meet some of these criteria, it doesn't mean you are guaranteed to develop an alcohol use disorder, but it might mean your risk is higher than average. Here's a summary of the main causes and risk factors:
Seeking Alcohol Recovery Recognizing the signs of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is crucial for early intervention and increased chances of recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with AUD, it’s important to seek professional help. Wings of Life is a trusted organization that can provide support and resources to individuals and families affected by alcoholism. Don't hesitate to contact Wings of Life for help and guidance on the road to recovery. Remember, it's never too late to seek help and take control of your life. SourcesKoob, G. F. (2024, February 27). Alcohol use disorder: From risk to diagnosis to recovery. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/health-professionals-communities/core-resource-on-alcohol/alcohol-use-disorder-risk-diagnosis-recovery#pub-toc1 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Genetics of Alcohol Use Disorder. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-use-disorder/genetics-alcohol-use-disorder Fentanyl addiction is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by compulsive use and dependence on the synthetic opioid drug fentanyl. Fentanyl is a potent pain reliever prescribed for severe pain symptoms, but it is also illegally trafficked, manufactured, and distributed, contributing to rising rates of addiction and overdose.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), there were 80,411 opioid overdose1 deaths in 2021. Fentanyl is extremely powerful; a dose as light as a snowflake2 is enough to cause a potentially fatal overdose in the average person. Recognizing the signs of fentanyl addiction in a loved one is a crucial first step toward providing the support they need. Learn more about the key signs and symptoms, helping you navigate the challenging terrain of supporting a loved one with a substance use problem. How Does Fentanyl Addiction Happen?Addiction is a complex process that typically begins with voluntary substance use, leading to changes in the brain's reward system. Addiction to an opioid is officially diagnosed as an opioid use disorder because of the way it can lead to a disorder in a person's life that affects mental and physical health. Continuous use may result in tolerance, requiring higher and higher doses for the same effects, and neurochemical alterations in the brain. Loss of control, both physically and psychologically, ensues, accompanied by cravings and compulsive drug-seeking behaviors. In many cases, people who recognize that they have a serious problem and would like to stop cannot do so without help. How to Recognize Fentanyl Addiction in a Family MemberAddiction is a progressive disease. People close to you may hide that they have a problem for a short time, but it will eventually become apparent. Recognizing fentanyl addiction in a family member requires careful observation of behavioral, physical, and emotional changes. Mental and emotional symptoms include:
Keep an eye on personal hygiene and grooming habits. Neglect of routine hygiene practices may indicate a mental health or substance use disorder. Frequent doctor shopping, secretive behavior, or financial issues might suggest attempts to obtain the drug. If you notice a combination of these indicators, it's essential to approach your family member with compassion and seek professional support for a comprehensive assessment. What to Do if You Suspect Fentanyl Addiction in a Loved OneOnce you notice the signs of an opioid or fentanyl addiction, the difficult part begins. Confronting a loved one about an addiction is uncomfortable, but it's important to note that addiction is treatable, and early treatment is always better. Different people respond to different approaches when they are confronted with a substance use issue, but denial is very common. It may take time and patience to convince a person that they have a problem. In some cases, intervention counselors can help guide you through the process of addressing a substance use disorder in a family member. If you've confronted your loved one and they aren't ready to seek help, it's important to avoid behavior that can prolong or worsen their substance use problem–often called enabling. Avoiding enabling behavior when a loved one has a substance use problem is essential for their recovery. Here are some strategies:
Seeking Recovery ProgramsSeeking guidance from medical professionals and support groups for families dealing with substance use issues can provide additional insights and coping strategies. Severe substance use disorder may require medical detoxification, but that's usually not enough. Addiction is a chronic disease that affects your brain, and relapse is common. Support that helps addicted people cope with drug cravings and the countless potential consequences of addiction, like legal problems, mental health problems, and spiritual issues, is essential. Addiction is also a disease that takes a toll on both body and soul. Christ-centered spiritual healing is the foundation of a transformational recovery. If you are seeking fentanyl addiction recovery for yourself or a loved one, learn more about the 90-day program at Wings of Life. Sources
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