How Drugs Rewire Your Brain

Addiction Recovery, Drug Addiction Treatment, Drug Dependence, Drug Tolerance

Illicit Drugs Warp the Brain’s Reward System A substance use disorder (SUD) changes more than someone’s behavior, it also changes their biology. Illicit substances like heroin, cocaine, and opioids rewire the brain, altering its chemistry and structure. Countless studies have shown the biological impact of addiction and why it is a chronic disease, like high blood pressure or diabetes. Addiction’s Biological Impact Starts in the Brain The brain’s reward system is designed to encourage survival behaviors. It releases dopamine, a chemical associated with feeling pleasure, to encourage us to do…

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The Different Types of Drug Rehab: Which Is Right for You?

Addiction Recovery, Drug Addiction Treatment, Drug Rehab, Fentanyl Addiction Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Program, Outpatient Treatment, Virtual Therapy

Choosing the right treatment program may seem intimidating, but it is essential to achieving lasting recovery. Whether you’re considering inpatient, outpatient, or virtual rehab, understanding the differences can make it simple to choose the right program for you. Each option offers unique benefits, catering to various needs and lifestyles. Inpatient Rehab Inpatient programs are designed for people to stay and live at a treatment center for a specific period, usually 28 to 90 days. This program is highly structured and provides constant medical care, therapy, and group support. It’s designed…

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person with contemplative facial expression thinking about the physical effects of drug addiction

Physical Effects of Drug Addiction

Drug Addiction Treatment, Drug Dependence, Drug Rehab

Drug addiction takes a heavy toll on both the mind and body, leading to a range of severe and often irreversible health issues. While the emotional impact is often discussed, the physical effects of drug addiction are equally devastating, impacting everything from vital organs to skin health. If you or a loved one is struggling with drug addiction, it’s crucial to understand the potential physical consequences and seek help before it’s too late. Call BrightView at 888.501.9865 to learn more about our comprehensive drug addiction treatment options. Physical Effects of…

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people laughing with sparklers about how to have a sober new year's eve

How to Have a Sober New Year’s Eve

Addiction Recovery

One of the most challenging aspects of being in recovery is learning new ways to enjoy your time with family and friends. The good news is, there are many activities that can be fun, rewarding, and not put your recovery at risk. In fact, you may find something brand new that you will love. The most tricky time, especially for someone who is newly in recovery, is New Year’s Eve. If you or a loved one have just completed inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment, it is vital to have a…

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person helping loved one after recognizing signs of drug use in a friend

Signs of Drug Use in a Friend

Drug Addiction Treatment, Drug Dependence, Drug Rehab

It can be painful and challenging to suspect that a friend may be struggling with drug use. Recognizing the signs of drug use in a friend can be the first step toward offering them the support they may need. Drug addiction treatment, such as the programs offered by BrightView, can make a significant difference in helping individuals regain control of their lives. Call 888.501.9865 today to learn more about our treatment options. Physical Signs of Drug Use One of the more obvious signs of drug use in a friend is…

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person sitting next to window struggling with long-term effects of meth addiction

Long-Term Effects of Meth Addiction

Addiction Recovery, Mental Health, Meth Addiction Treatment

Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a highly addictive stimulant that can have severe effects on both the body and mind. While the immediate impacts of meth can be devastating, prolonged use can lead to serious, sometimes irreversible damage. For those struggling, meth addiction treatment can provide essential support and a path toward recovery. Long-Term Effects of Meth Use One of the most damaging meth addiction effects occurs in the brain, where meth’s intense stimulation can alter normal functions and even lead to lasting changes. Meth use significantly increases dopamine…

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Can Ozempic & Wegovy Help Treat Addiction?

Addiction Recovery, Alcohol Addiction Treatment, Medication Assisted Treatment, Substance Abuse Treatment

Initial Study Finds Weight Loss Drugs Show Promise for Addiction Treatment While medications for addiction treatment are proven safe and effective, the options available are limited. The FDA has only approved three medication classes specifically for treating alcohol use disorders (AUD) and three for substance use disorders (SUD). Comparatively, there are eight medication classes for high blood pressure and 10 for high cholesterol. A recent study may expand these lists to include GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. GLP-1 medications are currently used to treat type 2…

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How Can MAT Help Prevent Relapse?

Addiction Recovery, Addiction Treatment Center, Medication Assisted Treatment

When someone in addiction treatment for a substance use disorder (SUD) has a return to use, or relapse, it may seem like treatment isn’t working. In fact, it’s often considered part of the process. As many as 60% of people in treatment will experience a return to use according to research. Preventing a return to use is still the broader goal of treatment. Outpatient programs using medication for addiction treatment (MAT) are a safe and effective way to support individuals struggling with an SUD while preventing relapse.   What are…

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person sitting with hands together wondering how how mat helps withdrawal symptoms

How MAT Helps Withdrawal Symptoms

Medication Assisted Treatment, Recovery, Withdrawal

Withdrawal is a challenging part of recovery from substance use disorder, often marked by intense physical and emotional discomfort. Medication assisted treatment, or MAT, is one of the most effective ways to manage these withdrawal symptoms and support a smooth transition through the early stages of recovery. This approach, offered at BrightView, combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies to ease withdrawal and help individuals build a stable foundation for long-term recovery. Here, we’ll explore how MAT helps withdrawal symptoms and why it has become a crucial component of successful…

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person hanging head while showing signs of addiction relapse

5 Signs of Addiction Relapse

Addiction Recovery, Recovery, Relapse Prevention

Recovering from substance use disorder is a journey, and at times, even the strongest among us encounter setbacks. Understanding the early warning signs of relapse can empower individuals and their support systems to take swift action. An addiction relapse program, such as BrightView’s, can provide essential guidance and support when these signs emerge. Call 888.501.9865 today to learn more about our comprehensive relapse prevention program. 5 Symptoms of Addiction Relapse When you know what to look for, it’s easier to identify the early signs of relapse. Here are five symptoms…

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