Where can I find help for dual diagnosis?

Help for dual diagnosis can be found at specialized treatment centers that offer integrated care for mental health and substance use disorders. It's important to look for programs that specifically mention dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder treatment. Healthcare providers, mental health professionals, or local health departments can also provide referrals to suitable programs.

Is it common for individuals with dual diagnosis to relapse?

Relapse can be a part of the recovery process for some individuals with dual diagnosis, given the complex nature of these conditions. However, integrated treatment plans are designed to reduce the likelihood of relapse by addressing the root causes of both disorders and equipping individuals with strategies to manage triggers and cravings.

How can families support a loved one with dual diagnosis?

Families can support a loved one by encouraging them to seek and continue treatment, offering emotional support, educating themselves about dual diagnosis, and possibly participating in family therapy sessions. It's also important for families to set healthy boundaries and seek support for themselves through resources like support groups.

Are there any specific medications used in treating dual diagnosis?

Yes, specific medications may be used to treat the mental health aspect of dual diagnosis, such as atypical antipsychotics for schizophrenia or mood stabilizers for bipolar disorder. The choice of medication depends on the individual's specific mental health condition and substance use issues. Medications may also be used to manage withdrawal symptoms or cravings associated with substance use disorder.

What are the challenges in treating dual diagnosis?

Treating dual diagnosis presents several challenges, including the complexity of diagnosing and managing two co-occurring disorders, overcoming stigma, ensuring access to integrated treatment programs, and addressing the individual's holistic needs, including emotional and socioeconomic factors.

How does inpatient treatment benefit individuals with dual diagnosis?

Inpatient treatment offers a structured and supportive environment that is crucial for individuals with dual diagnosis. This setting provides constant care, removes individuals from potentially triggering environments, and allows for the intensive treatment needed to address both disorders simultaneously. It also facilitates the development of coping strategies and life skills essential for long-term recovery.

Can dual diagnosis be cured?

While “cure” may not be the term used in the context of dual diagnosis, effective management and recovery are possible. With appropriate integrated treatment, individuals can achieve significant improvement in both their mental health and substance use issues, leading to a better quality of life.

What does integrated treatment for dual diagnosis involve?

Integrated treatment for dual diagnosis typically involves a combination of pharmacotherapy (medication), psychosocial treatments (like cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and group counseling), and personalized care plans that are tailored to the individual's specific needs. This approach may also include support for related issues, such as housing, employment, and relationship counseling.

Why is integrated treatment recommended for dual diagnosis?

Integrated treatment is recommended because it addresses both the mental health disorder and the substance use disorder together, rather than treating them separately. Research has shown that this approach leads to better outcomes, as it tackles the complex interplay between the disorders, offering a more comprehensive and effective form of care.

What is dual diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health disorder in an individual. It means that someone is struggling with both mental health issues, like anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia, and substance abuse, such as alcohol or drug addiction, simultaneously.

WHAT SERVICES ARE INCLUDED IN MY HOSPITAL BILL?

If you are viewing estimates provided on this website, the pricing includes estimated room and board, supplies, nursing care, equipment use, nutritional services, and any services handled by the staff of the hospital within the walls of the hospital. It does not include services from outside providers such as lab or doctors fees.

WHAT IS PRICING TRANSPARENCY?

“Pricing Transparency” is the term used to describe initiatives in the healthcare industry to provide meaningful pricing information to consumers. The healthcare industry is often complex and difficult for consumers to navigate. Price transparency is a means of providing consumers price information on common services. Our hospital is committed to presenting pricing information on its website in a way that will be easy for the consumer to access and understand, as well as providing other useful information about financial assistance available, definitions of key terminology, and key financial policies.

Are There Any Anxiety Medications Safe with Alcohol?

It is generally not safe to mix alcohol with anxiety medications. Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of side effects. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on this matter.

Can Alcohol Cause Anxiety Disorders?

While alcohol itself may not directly cause anxiety disorders, its misuse can lead to the development or exacerbation of anxiety symptoms. Those with pre-existing anxiety may find their condition worsens with alcohol use.

How Do I Stop Anxiety after Drinking Alcohol?

To manage anxiety after drinking, it's important to reduce or stop alcohol consumption, practice healthy coping skills, and seek professional treatment if needed, especially for those with a co-occurring disorder.

Is Hangxiety a Real Thing?

Yes, “hangxiety” is a real phenomenon. It's a colloquial term combining “hangover” and “anxiety,” describing the feelings of anxiety and panic experienced during a hangover, often due to depleted GABA levels in the brain.

Does Alcohol Cause Anxiety?

Long-term alcohol use can lead to worsening anxiety. For instance, the experience of “hangxiety” after heavy drinking exemplifies how alcohol can induce anxiety-like symptoms.

Does Alcohol Make Anxiety Worse?

Yes, alcohol can worsen anxiety. Over time, dependence on alcohol to relax can lead to an increased risk of developing alcoholism. Furthermore, reliance on alcohol for managing anxiety can amplify anxiety symptoms when sober, potentially leading to co-occurring disorders.

Does Alcohol Reduce Anxiety?

While alcohol initially reduces stress and makes one feel at ease, it's only a short-term effect. In the long term, it does not effectively reduce anxiety and can actually exacerbate anxiety symptoms.

Does Alcohol Help Anxiety?

Temporarily, alcohol can create feelings of relaxation and sociability due to its depressant effects on the central nervous system. However, it's not a reliable or healthy method for managing anxiety.

Do Track Marks Go Away?

Some track marks can heal and become barely noticeable, while others, particularly in areas of thin skin or repeated puncture, may lead to irreversible skin and vein damage, resulting in permanent scars or marks.

How to Get Rid of Track Marks?

Healing from track marks involves stopping IV drug use and adopting practices like using clean needles, maintaining wound cleanliness, wearing compression socks, and improving circulation through exercise. Medical evaluation and potentially plastic or vascular surgery can also reduce the appearance of damaged veins.

Are There Dangers of Intravenous Drug Use?

Beyond track marks, IV drug use poses significant health risks, including vein damage, infections, collapsed veins, bloodstream infections affecting major organs, and skin infections like abscesses.

How Long Do Track Marks Last?

The duration of track marks varies. Some may heal and leave minimal scarring, but others, especially in areas with thin skin like hands and feet, can cause permanent visible marks and scar tissue.

Where Can Track Marks Appear?

Commonly found on the forearms, track marks can appear anywhere on the body. IV drug users often use non-dominant arms for injection, but they may also use other areas like hands, feet, neck, and groin, especially when trying to conceal their drug use.

What Do Track Marks Look Like?

Fresh track marks appear as unhealed puncture wounds. Over time and with repeated use, they can darken the skin's pigmentation and may also present as bruising, scarring, lesions, and visible vein damage.

What Are Track Marks?

Track marks are the visible signs on the skin resulting from intravenous (IV) drug use. They appear as scars or pinpoint spots, usually due to repeated injections in the same area, causing skin and vein damage.

What does Tusi Lavada mean?

“Tusi lavada” refers to a specific form or variant of the drug tusi, which is the colloquial name for pink cocaine. The term “lavada” in Spanish translates to “washed” in English. In the context of drug terminology, this could imply that the tusi has been processed or purified in some way. However, the exact meaning can vary depending on the local context and the specifics of how the drug is prepared or marketed. It's important to be cautious with such terms, as they can reflect regional slang or specific methods used in the illicit drug trade, and their meanings can differ significantly. Additionally, the composition and safety of such substances are highly unpredictable, contributing to their danger.

“Tusi” or “tuci” is a local term used to refer to pink cocaine, particularly in Colombia. It is a synthetic drug known scientifically as 2C-B. Unlike traditional cocaine, tusi is not derived from the coca plant but is instead a laboratory-made substance. This drug is a combination of pink food coloring, strawberry flavoring, ketamine, caffeine, and MDMA, and its effects are more akin to ecstasy rather than cocaine. Developed in the 1970s by chemist Alexander Shulgin, tusi was initially created for treating erectile dysfunction and boosting libido. However, it was later classified as a Schedule I Controlled substance and taken off the market due to its high potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use. In the club scene, especially among younger adults, tusi is known for its party-enhancing effects.

What is Pink Cocaine?

Pink cocaine, despite its name, is not a type of cocaine. It is a synthetic drug, classified as phenylethylamine 2C-B, which includes a combination of pink food coloring, strawberry flavoring, ketamine, caffeine, and MDMA. This composition means that its effects more closely resemble those of ecstasy, rather than traditional cocaine. Originally developed in the 1970s by chemist Alexander Shulgin, it was intended for treating erectile dysfunction and enhancing libido, and was sold under names like Performax or Erox until its reclassification as a Schedule I Controlled substance in the United States in 1995. Pink cocaine is popular among teens and young adults in the club scene, and its use can lead to a range of side effects, including hallucinations, euphoria, nausea, rapid heartbeat, and in severe cases, seizures and respiratory depression.

What are Valium overdose symptoms?

Symptoms of a Valium overdose include severe drowsiness, confusion, limp muscles, and slow reflexes. In more serious cases, a person might have trouble breathing, become unconscious, or fall into a coma. If you think someone has overdosed on Valium, it's important to get medical help right away because it can be life-threatening.

What is the Valium antidote?

The antidote for a Valium overdose is a drug called flumazenil. It can quickly reverse the effects of Valium by blocking it from working on the brain. This antidote is usually given in a hospital setting where healthcare providers can closely monitor the patient because it can also cause withdrawal symptoms in people who are dependent on Valium.

How Much Valium Is Too Much?

The amount of Valium that is too much will vary from person to person. Factors like your age, weight, overall health, and whether you've taken it before all play a role. Generally, doctors will prescribe the lowest effective dose to minimize the risk of overdose. Taking more Valium than prescribed, or mixing it with other substances like alcohol, can quickly become dangerous.

Is Valium a Narcotic?

Valium is not considered a narcotic. Narcotics are drugs that relieve pain and dull the senses, and are often opioids like morphine or hydrocodone. Valium, however, is a benzodiazepine and is used mainly to treat anxiety and muscle spasms by calming the nervous system. While not a narcotic, Valium is still a controlled substance because it has the potential for abuse and dependence.

What are benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a type of medication that helps to relax the nervous system. They are often used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia because they can calm the brain and help with sleep. Common benzodiazepines include drugs like Valium, Xanax, and Ativan. They are effective but need to be used carefully because they can cause dependence and withdrawal if used long-term.

Valium is a medication known by the generic name diazepam. It belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines and is used to treat conditions like anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures. Valium works by calming the brain and nerves, and it is also used to help with alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Can you overdose on Valium?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Valium. Taking more than the recommended dose, or using it in ways not prescribed by a doctor, can lead to serious health problems. An overdose can slow down your breathing, cause confusion, make you feel sleepy or even fall into a coma. It's important to always take Valium exactly as prescribed to avoid these risks.

Signs of Overdose: What to Look for and What to Do • The Willough at Naples Behavioral Hospital

Knowing the signs of overdose can help you or a loved one get the necessary medical help before it’s too late. With early intervention and proper medical support, some overdoses can be reversed. However, a variety of factors can impact the outlook of recovery. As a result, getting help for addiction and mental health problems before an overdose can prevent experiencing one in the future.

Below you will learn about the different signs of overdose and the treatment options available to you. Start your recovery journey now to keep yourself safe.

Table of Contents

What Does It Mean to Overdose?

An overdose refers to when someone ingests a toxic amount of a substance or combined substances. Whether it’s prescription drugs, over-the-counter medication, or illicit substances, taking too much can result in harmful or deadly side effects. This occurs when the body is unable to metabolize what is ingested and in turn interferes with the brain and body’s ability to function. Not every overdose is fatal; however, overdose-related toxicity can cause a variety of short-term and long-term health consequences.

The signs of overdose vary from person to person and can sometimes be hard to distinguish from less severe side effects of drug use. Some signs of overdose are obvious with noticeable symptoms that require immediate medical attention. But other symptoms of overdose are more subtle or mild and may take longer to progress. No matter how they appear, an alcohol or drug overdose is serious. Timing is a critical factor in preventing an overdose death. Therefore, always call 911 if you suspect someone is exhibiting signs of overdose.

Overdose Risk Factors

According to the CDC, over 100,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States during a 12-month period that ended in April 2021. Many of these overdose deaths are the result of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. However, other substances including methamphetamine and cocaine also contributed to a significant rise in overdose deaths. Moreover, many mental and environmental risk factors contribute to these deaths. These risk factors include:

Low drug tolerance levels
Mental health issues
Not knowing the strength or ingredients of a substance
Mixing substances
Using alone

Additional overdose risk factors include:

The substance(s) ingested
How much was taken
How the substance was taken
Age of the person
Current state of health

Some of these risk factors are difficult to identify. For instance, many illicit substances are unknowingly cut with fentanyl. As a result, many individuals ingest drugs more potent than anticipated. This often leads to an accidental overdose that causes long-term health effects or death.

With that said, the most effective way to prevent an overdose is to stay away from dangerous substances and to follow prescription instructions on all medication labels. However, this can be difficult for those already struggling with drug addiction. If you are seeking help to reduce your risk of overdose, The Willough at Naples has the resources and support you need. It’s never too late to begin your recovery journey.

The Warning Signs of Overdose

The signs of overdose vary according to the substance or substances used. Moreover, all symptoms of an overdose depend on a variety of factors. You may also struggle to seek help if you’re experiencing an overdose-related medical event. This can be dangerous and scary, especially if you’re alone. However, knowing the signs can help you or a loved one know when it’s time to seek medical attention.

Signs of alcohol overdose include:

Mental confusion or stupor
Lack of responsiveness
Slow or stopped pulse
Breath is slow or following an irregular pattern
Clammy and discolored skin

Signs of opioid overdose include:

Loss of consciousness
Choking, gurgling, or snoring
Pinpoint pupils
Slowed or stopped breathing
Lips or fingertips appearing blue or purple

Symptoms of stimulant overdose include:

High body temperature
Hyperventilation
Increased or irregular heartbeat
Heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular events
Seizures or convulsions
Paranoia and other symptoms of psychosis
Aggressive behavior

Symptoms of depressant overdose include:

Vision problems
Extreme weakness
Loss of consciousness
Confusion and lack of alertness

It’s important to note that individuals who have experienced an overdose are at a higher risk of overdosing again in the future. Therefore, getting the help you need before experiencing an overdose can prevent you from experiencing one.

What to Do When Someone Shows Signs of Overdose

If you suspect someone is showing signs of overdose, even if you’re unsure, call 911 immediately. Some individuals may be hesitant to report an overdose out of fear of punishment. However, Good Samaritan laws protect individuals who call 911 or administer Narcan from legal consequences and encourage more people to report overdoses.

After calling 911, you will need to tell the operator what you know including what substances they may have taken and whether they are conscious and responsive. If the person is no longer breathing, the operator will walk you through rescue breathing, commonly known as CPR. From here, they will give you further instructions on what to do until help arrives.

Opioid overdoses can be treated with Narcan (naloxone). Administering Narcan can potentially reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save someone’s life. If the person does not respond within two to three minutes, administer another dose. Strong opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl may require multiple doses administered every two to three minutes until emergency responders arrive.

Keep in mind it will not have an effect if opioids are not present in their system. This means it’s safe to use on someone who isn’t overdosing on opioids. But it’s still necessary to find the underlying cause of the symptoms. Moreover, administering Narcan does not guarantee an overdose can be stopped but it can reduce long-lasting damage if administered in time.

No matter the case, always call 911 in the event of a suspected overdose. You may save someone’s life.

Recovery Options Following the Signs of Overdose

Addiction recovery can be difficult when you’re learning to manage a co-occurring mental health disorder. That’s why The Willough at Naples provides a comprehensive dual diagnosis program for adults starting recovery. Each treatment plan is designed to meet the individual needs of patients for effective long-term recovery. If you’re struggling with addiction or substance dependence in addition to psychiatric illness, treatment options available through inpatient or partial hospitalization programs can reduce your risk of a future overdose.

Recovery following the signs of overdose often begins with medical drug and alcohol detox. Here, patients receive 24/7 care and monitoring as they undergo withdrawal. Individuals who complete a medical detox program are less likely to relapse than those who don’t. Moreover, this reduces your risk of future overdose. Withdrawal can be unpleasant, and in some cases, life-threatening. As a result, it’s recommended you start with a medical detox rather than attempting to start recovery by quitting cold turkey at home.

After completing detox, patients begin the next phase of their treatment. This part of recovery consists of a variety of therapeutic techniques and additional mental health and addiction resources.

Evidence-based treatment modalities at The Willough at Naples include:

Cognitive behavioral therapy
Family education
Recreational therapy
Group therapy
Medication evaluation and management
Relapse prevention
Link to community-based services

At our Florida addiction treatment center, treatment is provided by a multidisciplinary team comprised of psychiatrists, nurses, mental health professionals, and more. Your emotional and physical well-being is at the forefront of your recovery to maximize your ability to achieve long-term sobriety and mental wellness.

Overdose and Addiction Treatment in Naples, Florida

Now that you know the signs of overdose, you may be ready to seek help to reduce your risk of experiencing one. To start recovery, get in touch with the admission experts by calling (239) 688-3063 or submitting a confidential contact form online. The nurturing, retreat-like nature of our treatment center will provide the peace you need to take the first step in your recovery journey.

Signs of Overdose: What to Look for and What to Do

What Does It Mean to Overdose?

Overdose Risk Factors

The Warning Signs of Overdose

What to Do When Someone Shows Signs of Overdose

Recovery Options Following the Signs of Overdose

Overdose and Addiction Treatment in Naples, Florida

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