Browsing Tag

depression

Is Isolation Healthy in Addiction Recovery

By Jennifer McDougall

It can be tempting for many people, especially those in recovery, to shut out the world for days at a time, but how much isolation is too much? Because of the high risk for increased loneliness during times of isolation, it is important to point out that if you are feeling a desire to pull back from social environments and becoming disengaged in what was motivating and inspiring you before, that you now need to look at WHY you are wanting to resort to solitude.

How to know when you’ve been isolating for too long

You feel unmotivated
Shake up the energy in your home first by decluttering every room and every corner. If you’ve been at home a lot lately, chances are things have begun to pile up. That stuff you have just sitting around is collecting dust and blocking out strong energy forces that help you stay enthusiastic about life. Seeing clutter has a negative effect on how we feel. Start by cleaning up. Then work on getting outside and calling a friend or nice family member who can provide you with some good laughter and support. This may help push you to create a better routine and implement new fun activities.
You are experiencing increase in depression and anxiety
It’s time to get more exercise and practice meditation. You are going to be okay but you need to switch things up. Sometimes we keep doing something long after it is no longer working for us anymore. This happens a lot to those who have used drugs and alcohol for long periods of time. They stop being fun and start being something dangerous and works against you in every way possible. When you’re being depressed and anxious, that’s your body telling you that something has to change.
Your mind is restless at night and you can’t fall asleep
Get your journal and start writing down all your ideas. This is a great way to calm your racing thoughts and give you a productive outlet for plugging your emotions into something that helps you see things a little more clearly.
You want to get out and do something but you don’t know where to start
Begin getting out and about a little bit every day. Go to the beach or a park to sit or lay outside under the sun and read a book.

The year is 2020, and many people have experienced an overwhelming sense of loneliness due to a major shift in how we are able to connect with one another from a distance. With the stay-at-home orders and quarantine scenario starting back in March, we have been glued to our phones, computers, and televisions like never before. It’s almost September now, and restaurants are open again, most small businesses are finding a way to continue to provide services to their customers while following strict guidelines enforced by each state.

Thankfully, Passages Malibu and Passages Ventura have been able to remain open during these unprecedented times. We have seen an increased number of phone calls and web inquires for treatment due to the massive hike in substance abuse related issues this year. Passages is grateful to all of the staff who have helped keep things running smoothly and providing a substantial amount of support to one another.

Why Would Someone Want to Isolate Themselves

The pandemic. It also could be that this person recently experienced a job loss, a breakup, the death of a loved one, financial hardship, a desire for peace and quiet because everything around them feels chaotic, is physically or emotionally drained, feels down about themselves, has been deeply hurt by people in the past and prefers to keep to themselves in order to protect themselves from future pain.

Sometimes, isolating is a necessary reset that we must allow our self to flourish. It is not dangerous when appropriately managed. We have to be mindful to incorporate small blocks of time throughout the day to socialize with other people or not. It is essential to talk to other people, release any thoughts, feelings, or ideas you have piling up inside your head. While it may be tempting just to sit inside, work, listen to music, and enjoy time alone, it’s also critical that you exercise once a day to help maintain a healthy rhythm and flow to your sober lifestyle. One of the best feelings is that sense of accomplishment at the end of the day when you can lay your head down at night and know that you completed a difficult task and followed through on vital assignments that needed to be done.

One of the key elements that people crave in isolation is the clarity to concentration and direct all their focus onto a challenging goal they feel strongly about. What gets people off course in isolation is the lack of balance and accountability because when you block people and society out of your life, you don’t allow the most important thing to happen: connection. We all need to feel connected to something, and someone who understands us hears us and gently pushes us to do better and be better every single day. By having a connection to others, we can thrive more abundantly and feel loved, which is something every person on earth wants more than anything else.

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Call Passages Addiction Treatment Centers today if you or a loved one is battling an addiction to drugs and alcohol. Our admissions department is available 24/7 and can be reached directly by calling our toll-free number at (888) 397-0112. We look forward to speaking with you soon.

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

Call Passages today at (888) 397-0112. Most insurance is accepted.

by Passages Malibu

How to Cope With Unexpected Events

By Jennifer McDougall

Coping with events that disrupt our inner peace and shake us to the core can be upsetting. Knowing how to navigate through challenging emotions with a healthy approach is always important, especially if you are someone who has struggled with substance abuse related issues in the past. To avoid a relapse, you must remind yourself of what you have to lose if you throw it all away, and remember what you were taught at Passages. The tools we provide you with during treatment can be used throughout your recovery to help keep you on the right track.

“When a problem or a difficult situation arises, say to yourself, as if you already believe it: “This is for my benefit.”
― Chris Prentiss, Be Who You Want, Have What You Want: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life

If you have recently experienced a tragedy or a troubling situation has occurred in your life, follow these tips.

Deep breathing exercises the moment you feel triggered.
Call and talk to a friend who supports your sobriety.
Go for a run to release any stress and tension.
Write a letter to the person who you are upset at. Read it out loud to yourself and then shred it up and throw it away.
Find a quiet space to meditate for 10-20 minutes to relax your mind.
Create a schedule for the next 5 days that you can hold yourself accountable to. Stay active and productive.
Play uplifting music to keep your spirits lifted.
Take a hot bath with lavender or lemongrass oil and read a book.
Clean your car, house, and workspace.
Get a good night’s sleep.

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How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

by Passages Malibu

Finding the Upside When You’re Down

By Jennifer McDougall

It’s quite common for many people to get stuck in a rut from time to time; bored of the same routine, lacking excitement in day-to-day tasks. The trick is to recognize how you feel and start making some slight changes that can drastically improve how you feel which will then, in fact, improve the work you produce, your health, and relationships.

When someone is feeling down, they often times slide into unhealthy patterns and have little hope that things will get better. The truth is, in order to get out of this rut you must first begin looking on the bright side of every situation, point out the positive, and use it as a stepping stone to realizing there are changes in your life that need to be made.

If you’re feeling down, drained, or lacking motivation there are many things you can do to sort out what is making you feel this way and refuel your energy.

Write it out by journaling
Call a friend
Get exercise
Avoid the use of drugs and alcohol
Meditation
Clean your space
Stay on top of your hygiene
Make a list of what you are grateful for
Turn on a funny movie
Take part in more self-grooming

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

by Passages Malibu

The Many Benefits and Uses of Essential Oils

Knowing the benefits of essential oils will help you understand the importance of incorporating them into your daily routine. From increased energy to pain relief and digestion help, essential oils have shown to improve the quality of life for those who use them. If you are someone who struggles with anxiety or insomnia, lavender oil would be perfect for you! If you are experiencing headaches or migraines, peppermint oil would do you wonders.

To learn more about the benefits and how you can use essential oils to help improve your wellbeing, please read the 7 tips below. Feel free to leave any comments or questions in the section below this article.

Lift your spirits and improve your mood with eucalyptus, jasmine, orange, sandalwood, vanilla, grapefruit, lemon and rosemary oils.
Tap into deep relation with lavender, bergamot, and clary sage oil.
Get relief from even your worst pains by using ginger, frankincense, helichrysum, peppermint, lemongrass, myrrh, and chamomile oil.
Prevent illnesses and diseases with tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, cinnamon, sage, oregano, lemongrass, and frankincense oils.
Relieve your body from inflammation by using tea tree, thyme, rosemary, and eucalyptus oils.
Safe alternative to candles and incense for aromatherapy using a diffuser such as the ones from Organic Armoas.
Eases symptoms of anxiety using lavender and ylang ylang oil.

To purchase the perfect essential oils today, please visit Organic Aromas. They offer an assortment of beautiful handcrafted and artful diffusers that will light up any room with pure elegance and soothing aromas when accompanied by their many essential oil options. All are available on their website at www.organicaromas.com.

by Passages Malibu

Finding the Source of My Pain

By Dr. Kerri Heath

“The cure for pain is in the pain.” -Rumi

If you are searching for a rehab center, you are probably experiencing a lot of pain. The substances may no longer be working to numb the pain. You know that it is time to heal this pain or face certain death. You are not alone. Many clients who come to Passages have reached the end of their rope and are faced with the realization that it is time to face the truth and find a new path before it’s too late. It is not uncommon to hear people say “the only other option was death, so I had to get help.”

Humans are experiencing a lot of suffering every day and night. They are covering the pain up and pretending to be free from pain. However, unless they can find the cause of the pain it is impossible to heal it. The pain and suffering will cause disease and physical deterioration if it is ignored over long periods of time. Once the physical pain becomes unbearable, people tend to seek out help for their suffering. Our suffering should be seen as an alert. Pain is trying to tell you something, it is not a prediction of doomsday. If we can pay attention to our suffering and learn from it, then we can be free from it. Rumi stated that the “cure for pain is in the pain.”

This is why substance abuse is only setting us back on our journey. If we are not facing the pain and identifying its source, we cannot eradicate it. The pain will only be prolonged if addictions are used to numb it rather than learning the lesson that it is trying to teach.

Wherever there is a pain of any kind (irritation, aggravation, loss, anger, grieving, jealousy, resentment, indigestion, physical pain, etc.) we will find attaching to something that needs to be released. Attachment is what leads to suffering. When you can discover this truth for yourself, and pay attention to the pain, you will be able to understand your pain in new ways and release the thing you are holding on to. On the other side of pain and suffering is a source of freedom.

Passages Addiction Treatment Centers would like to help you overcome the addiction, identify the true source of your pain, and design a new life that is in full alignment with what you truly want. You are only a few steps away from creating a life that is free from pain and suffering… just make the call. There is a team waiting for you to make the passage towards a new life of freedom and truth.

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

by Passages Malibu

Crisis Hotline Myths

By Susan Finley, Ed.D., NCC

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” -Nelson Mandela

Many people are afraid to ask for help—especially when in crisis. Varying factors affect one’s decision to reach out in times of need. These can include believing common myths you may have heard, fear of being judged, fear that you are not in enough pain to ask for help, and lack of knowledge about crisis hotlines in general.

The premise behind crisis hotlines is to de-escalate the situation. Give yourself the same care you would a friend in need. Always check in with yourself, no issue is too big or small to reach out. To take away some fears, familiarize yourself with what happens when using a crisis hotline.

Common MYTHS about mental health crisis hotlines:

Myth 1

I should only use a hotline if I’m in a really bad place. You do not need to be having suicidal thoughts to wait to ask for help. Crisis hotlines are helpful for anyone experiencing sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQ issues, bereavement, self-harm, or other mental health concerns.

Myth 2

My phone will be tracked and my location revealed. Your phone will not be tracked and emergency services will not be sent directly to your location if you use a crisis hotline. Because crisis hotlines are 100% confidential, you are under no obligation to share personal or identifying information with the counselor on the other end.

Myth 3

Hotlines will have access to my personal information: When using Facebook BRAVE Crisis Text Line through your computer, your information is encrypted and therefore anonymous, so you can rest assured that hotlines won’t have access to your profile or other identifying information, even over the Internet. They’ll only know what you tell them – nothing more. Facebook conversations with services such as BRAVE are 100% confidential and secure.

Remember, asking for help becomes easier and less stigmatized when we normalize the universal need to reach out to others. This includes sending the message that it’s OK to feel afraid, sad, depressed, or angry. Everyone, at some point in his or her life, has been in pain and needed help. You are not alone.

If you or a friend is struggling, start by sharing those feelings with someone trustworthy. You can also text BRAVE to 741741 which is a free, 24/7, confidential support hotline with trained counselors on the other end.
If you want to get someone directly on the line, call 800-273-TALK (8255) where you can speak to a trained counselor ready to listen to you or someone else.
You can reach out to Facebook BRAVE Crisis Text Line by hitting “Send Message” on their Facebook page.
It is a good idea to program any of the helpline numbers into your phone so that you have on hand in a crisis. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) is also a great resource.

Selected resources

BRAVE Crisis Text Line: text BRAVE to 741741

Facebook BRAVE Crisis Text Line

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255)

Susan Finley, Ed.D., NCC is an educator, published researcher, and social media marketing consultant for therapists. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH), and Suicide Prevention Instructor (QPR) under the National Board for Certified Counselors.

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

by Passages Malibu

Healing Your Fears and Trauma at Passages Addiction Treatment Centers

5 Ways to Confront and Heal Your Inner Demons

By Jennifer McDougall

“Confront the dark parts of yourself, and work to banish them with illumination and forgiveness. Your willingness to wrestle with your demons will cause your angels to sing. Use the pain as fuel, as a reminder of your strength.” – August Wilson

Facing your inner demons takes great courage. Bringing forth all of those memories, fears, pain, regrets, and causes for your current conditions, can cause a range of many emotions. Many of us have pain from the past and fears we live with every day that often times get suppressed as a way to ignore them rather than acknowledging them. If you are ready to heal your inner demons and overcome the blockage that has been holding you back from living your best life, this article is perfect for you.

Through professional therapy and compassionate care that is tailored just for you and your specific needs, it is possible to overcome your innermost darkness and experience true freedom. At Passages Addiction Treatment Centers, we focus on healing the underlying conditions causing you to use and abuse drugs and alcohol. Our non-12 Step holistic therapy methods are provided to you by those who have many years of experience in the field of mental health, addiction, and medicine.

Examples of inner demons:

Regrets
Trauma
Substance Abuse
Fears
Jealousy
Pain
Anger
Depression
Self-Doubt
Feelings of being stuck
Desire to seek revenge and harm others
Worries about money, health, or romance
Loss of worthiness and purpose for life

Photo by Marco Xu

Helpful tips to heal your inner demons:

Address the core issues and unresolved events from the past with a therapist
Practice letting go through meditation, hypnotherapy, psychotherapy and other holistic treatment methods such as the ones offered at Passages Rehab
Develop a strong self-care routine that you stick to on a daily basis (time alone, quality time with friends and family, massage, hair & nail care, facials, reading, writing, painting, disconnecting from technology & social media, healthy dieting etc.)
Forgive yourself and others from previous events by telling them personally or just quietly saying the words to yourself in your own privacy
Bring your fears, pain, trauma, and worries to surface– be real with how you feel as you experience a vast range of different emotions as you heal through this difficult yet courageous process

“Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness. How do you know this is the experience you need? Because this is the experience you are having at this moment.” – Eckhart Tolle

Photo by: Ben White

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

by Passages Malibu

Building Healthy Self-Esteem

By Susan Finley, Ed.D., NCC

“It’s the repetition of affirmations that leads to belief. And once that belief becomes a deep conviction, things begin to happen.” – Muhammad Ali

Self-Esteem begins to form in early childhood. It is shaped by our thoughts, relationships, and life experiences. Understanding self-esteem and the benefits of cultivating healthy self-esteem is the first step on the road to recovery from substance use and addiction.

Factors that can influence self-esteem include:

Your own thoughts and perceptions
How other people react to you
Experiences at school, work and in the community
Illness, disability or injury
Culture
Religion
Role and status in society

How Self Esteem is Formed: As a child, thoughts about yourself are formed from the messages you’ve been given and believed from influential people in your life. These beliefs are what we call dominant thought patterns. They operate on automatic, like a habit, and are the thoughts that trigger (consciously or unconsciously) your feelings and reactions to the circumstances of your life.

Thought Patterns Can Be Changed: When you begin to notice what you are thinking and feeling, you can practice using new thoughts and behaviors. With practice, your new thoughts will become your dominant thoughts, replacing old destructive and maladaptive patterns. Change begins when old behavior/thought patterns are replaced with new behavior/outlook.

Traits of a Healthy Self Esteem:

Assertive in expressing your needs and opinions
Confident in your ability to make decisions
Able to form secure and honest relationships — and less likely to stay in unhealthy ones
Realistic in your expectations and less likely to be overcritical of yourself and others
More resilient and better able to weather stress and setbacks
Less likely to experience feelings such as hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt, and shame
Less likely to develop mental health conditions, such as eating disorders, addictions, depression, and anxiety

If your self-esteem is not where you’d like it to be, do not be discouraged. The cultivation of healthy self-esteem can be influenced by honing in on characteristics derived from adversity, such as assertiveness and resilience. Many individuals who have struggled with substance use already have these traits and can draw upon them for strength while working through the difficult process of recovery.

Assertiveness, defined as the quality of being self-assured and confident without being aggressive, is a learned skill and mode of communication.

Resilience, defined as the ability to become strong, healthy, or successful again after something bad happens. Resilience literally means to return to its original shape after an object has been pulled, stretched, pressed, bent, etc. Past negative experiences can actually serve as your greatest asset when building a new life free from drug and alcohol use.

Photo by Mikail Duran

Susan Finley, Ed.D., NCC is an educator, published researcher, and social media consultant. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Distance Credentialed Counselor (DCC) (e-therapy) and Suicide Prevention Instructor (QPR) under the National Board for Certified Counselors.

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

by Passages Malibu

Fitness in Addiction Recovery

By Susan Finley, Ed.D., NCC

“Notice that the stiffest tree is most easily cracked, while the bamboo or willow survives by bending with the wind.”-Bruce Lee

Exercise is an excellent tool for individuals who suffer from substance use disorders. It provides for practicing healthy coping mechanisms and an increased confidence in your ability to take your mind off worries, thus gaining control over depression and anxiety (a large component of addiction).

The body and mind are closely related. For this reason, it’s not surprising that when you take care of your body, your cognitive and emotional state also reap the benefits. Exercise releases “feel good” endorphins, which are natural cannabis-like brain chemicals and other natural brain chemicals that can enhance your sense of wellbeing. Exercise has been shown to have positive effects on the brain as well. These include neural growth, reduced inflammation, and cognitive benefits such as improved concentration. Research indicates that individuals who exercise have more energy throughout the day and sleep better at night. (Mayo Clinic).

3 Ways to Benefit from Physical Fitness Today:

Yoga Therapy—originating in ancient India, yoga is comprised of physical, mental, and spiritual practices to heal your mind, body, and spirit. Yoga helps to improve deep and mindful breathing, improving lung capacity. This careful and controlled breathing stimulates the relaxation response, which is very important for addressing anxiety, a major factor in drug and alcohol dependency. Regular practice of yoga increases flexibility and core strength resulting in better posture, as well as lower blood pressure and heart rate.

Tai Chi—sometimes referred to as “meditation in motion” this low impact, go without pausing form of martial arts originated in China. Tai chi is said to unblock and encourage the proper flow of qi (energy force thought to flow through the body). It also focuses on the concept of yin and yang — opposing elements thought to make up the universe that need to be kept in harmony. (Harvard Health).

Hiking—located in one of the most beautiful locations in the world, Passages Malibu is minutes from numerous hiking trails comprised of waterfalls and canyons overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Not only is exercising in nature a healing experience, it also comes with the added benefit of filling our lungs with fresh air as opposed to working out inside a gym.

Passages Addiction Treatment Center would like to help you find permanent freedom from your addiction through a holistic approach that can help you redefine the “why” that guides the life you decide to create. Unless you give exercise a try, you will never truly experience the physical, emotional, and mental benefits. Starting small will help ease the transition into a healthier, more active lifestyle that is sure to provide a number of positive outcomes to your life.

At Passages Malibu, our physical fitness program works to reverse the trends developed as part of an unhealthy lifestyle. During your stay, we will provide you with one-on-one sessions with a Certified Fitness Instructor in our own fully equipped fitness center, so you can work at your own pace and choose exercises that are right for you.

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

Selected resources

Harvard Health Publishing The health benefits of tai chi.

Mayo Clinic Depression and anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms.

Susan Finley, Ed.D., NCC is an educator, published researcher, and social media consultant. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Distance Credentialed Counselor (DCC) (e-therapy), and Suicide Prevention Instructor (QPR) under the National Board for Certified Counselors.

Featured photo by: Geert Pieters

by Passages Malibu

What Are the Warning Signs of Suicide

by Jennifer McDougall

“There is no cell culture for depression. You can’t see it on a bone scan or an x-ray. Not everyone with depression will show the same behavioral symptoms.”
― Chris Prentiss, The Alcoholism and Addiction Cure

Suicide has become one of the nation’s biggest causes of death amongst teens, young adults, and elderly citizens. With the increasing number of suicides across America, it is important we take a deeper look at the warning signs in a loved one or even yourself. There are many variables that play a role in a person’s decision to end their life, and although it is something no one should ever consider, we must take a moment to try and understand what it is that is causing someone close to use or even a stranger to have these dark feelings of hopelessness. As a community, we should all be more alert and aware of the warning signs someone is struggling with an immense amount of pain and depression.

Here are 10 of the most common warning signs to look out for that someone could be suicidal:

Sudden withdrawal from social gatherings, friends, and family engagement
Excessive moodiness (extreme ups and downs) without much of a reason why or explanation
Substance abuse (increase in drug or alcohol use)
Change in sleep patterns (Sleeping much more or less than usual)
Harmful or reckless behavior
Expresses a feeling of hopelessness and unwillingness to live anymore
Reaching out to old friends and family members as a way to say goodbye
Other means of preparations such as getting rid of personal belongings
A decline in hygiene and usual self-care practices
Threats of committing suicide (50%-70% of those thinking of committing suicide will give a friend or family member a verbal warning or threat)

If you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts, please the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at call 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7. Your life matters. Please talk to someone today.

Here are several helpful ideas of what you can do if someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts and behavior.

Check in on your friends and family members, even your strong ones. Sometimes those who put up a front that they have it all together need extra support and attention, but may not ask for it
Take your friend or family member out to eat and enjoy some time outside of the house in a refreshing setting to boost their spirits and mix up their routine
Invite them out to low-key and not-so-intimidating events that are out of their comfort zone amongst other people but is also chill and not too intense and overwhelming for them
Offer to come over and watch a funny movie with them. Bring dinner or snacks with you.
Call or text them a few times throughout the week (day and night) to say hi and just ask how their day is going — communication and connectivity is so very important
Listen to them as they do their best to express themselves whether that be what they post online or what they tell you in person
Send them uplifting songs or playlists you think they may enjoy
Forward encouraging and insightful articles that are aligned with their interests
Lend them an enjoyable book to read during their down time or on the weekends — suggest taking it by the pool to read and soal up the sun

Photo by Jed Villejo

“If you are surrounded by people who not only don’t believe in your goals and your positive outlook on life but who also continually try to tear you down, it will be extremely challenging for you to hold firmly in mind that you will succeed and that you can be happy.”
― Chris Prentiss, Zen and the Art of Happiness

It is vital to our overall well being we surround ourselves with positive influences in our lives who support our goals– who help provide us with helpful guidance rather than toxic energy and people who hold us back or drag us down. Often times, people who struggle with substance abuse related issues have some type of enabler in their life leading them down a troubling path. Luckily though, Passages Addiction Treatment Centers offers a variety of programs that help give a person the tools they need to break free from addiction-related issues. Resolving the coping mechanisms used when triggers surface is a vital part in getting and staying sober. No matter where you are on your path to sobriety and enlightenment, there is always hope, even when you feel absolutely hopeless altogether– hope can be found even in the darkest of trials.

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™

by Passages Malibu

Sudden Mood Changes in Chemical Dependency Related Problems and Withdrawal

By Jennifer McDougall

Those who struggle with constant mood swings often feel as though they cannot control what is happening to them. They may be happy one moment and in absolute despair the next. Extreme mood swings could be a sign of bipolar disorder in which they should seek professional medical attention. Moody people tend to have unresolved issues, stress, discomfort in some area of their life, or a dependency related problem that needs to be treated sooner than later. The absence of addictive substances often times leave a dependent person feeling moody and if this is the case, you’ve come to the right place.

mood swing

ˈmo͞od ˌswiNG/

noun

plural noun: mood swings

an abrupt and apparently unaccountable change of mood. (Defined in Google)

Photo by: Francisco Moreno

As you may already know, it’s often times unpleasant to be around someone who is constantly up and down; you never know what side of them you’re going to get.

For the one who is struggling with never-ending mood swings, it is usually difficult to explain what is going on with them inside their mind and body. You may notice extremes in attitude and behavior. You may also find that this person is down and out more than they are happy and optimistic. They may disengage in conversation or have low energy. When asked why they are unhappy or so moody, you may notice that it is difficult for them to even to open up and tell you whats going on because they too have little to no idea why they are so sad.

Life is dull when you don’t feel motivated or engaged in work, social gatherings, or even your intimate relationships. Those who have on-going mood swings tend to feel restless yet tired. They want to be heard and understood, yet they have a hard time even telling you what’s the matter. They want to be held yet be left alone. They want to be happy, but they can’t stop crying.

There is one extreme to another. Those on the outside can’t even keep up.

One thing to look at when dealing with someone who has mood swings like this is to be open-minded and ask them questions. Listen to them as they need to feel like they are being heard. Don’t interrupt or go on and on about yourself and how you do this or that; just listen to them. As they speak they will also hear their own words being said and may begin to put the pieces together as to why they feel the way they do and what is causing it.

If the reason is that a person is without an addictive substance and it’s causing them rational irritability, we recommend drug and alcohol addiction treatment as soon as possible before the problem gets worse.

Here are a few signs a person is dependent on addictive substances and it is the reason for these mood swings.

Without the substance, they are rude, uninterested, irritable and fatigued
When asked how often they use the addictive substance they downplay their use
You notice is dramatic difference when the person is on and off of the substance
Their overall behavior and mood is completely different
They complain about not being able to get anything done or do much without the addictive substance
All they choose to do is use drugs and alcohol rather than going outside or doing something that involves movement and exploration
Little to no enthusiasm without the addictive substances

We don’t want you or your loved one to continue feeling this way. To improve your mood there are several things you can do so you or your loved one can enjoy a more stable life and not let these moody moments steer you off to such extremes.

Get on a regular workout regiment that will have you moving more frequently
Practice deep breathing exercises that will settle your level of stress and refocus your mental energy so you can think clearly and be more present without anxiety
Write down what is bothering you
Avoid consuming drugs, alcohol, and caffeine
Stop comparing your life or situation to anyone else’s. Self-awareness is your best friend and you have a lot going for you if you stop and look at the beauty that around you. No one is you and that my friend is your power!
Make a serious effort to change whatever it is that has you feeling down
Take natural supplements such as 5-HTP, L-Theanine, St. John’s Wort, or Passion Flower
Begin doing Yoga– either take a class or practice it at home on your own time
Rest between activities. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself to a nap here and there.
Be sure you are eating the right nutrients and fueling your body with plenty of water every day. Take the right vitamins as well so you can perform your best during your day-to-day functions.
Take time for yourself to recharge. Make a day or night of it where you just relax and unwind in the comfort of your own home, the gym, or a day spa.
Let go of pain from the past and allow healing to begin in the broken parts of your soul where you have been left wounded. Close your eyes and envision all of those regrets or painful events of the past just drift off into the sky where they vanish right before your eyes. Then 5 seconds before opening your eyes and take 3 deep breaths. Yes, let go!
Talk to a therapist or medical professional regarding your imbalance if none of the above suggestions help resolve your mood swings

Photo by: Eli DeFaria

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Passages Malibu helps you overcome substance abuse related issues

15 Tips on Staying Emotionally Balanced and Create More Zen in Your Life

By Jennifer McDougall

Keeping your emotions in check can be a difficult thing for those who suffer from mental illness, but it is generally something we should all learn how to manage. Balancing emotions is the key to keeping yourself in check when dealing with not only other people but also the highs and lows we experience in life. When you’re at work you are to be level-headed in order to remain professional and not let the actions of co-workers rattle your feathers which could lead to making irrational decisions that could be detrimental to your career. In a relationship, you are to be understanding within reason in the midst of an argument so you don’t lash out and say something you could really regret. When you’re with family you are to be open to criticism around the table and keep calm rather than getting upset and storming out the house. You see our emotions play a big roll in how we manage our lives. If you let your emotions get the best of you, your life could end up feeling like an absolute rollercoaster. Wouldn’t you rather live in a more zen state of mind where you are balanced in your emotional wellbeing? At Passages, we want to offer you these 15 helpful tips to become more emotionally balanced so you can keep your cool, no matter what you’re experiencing in that moment.

“The best way for you to get that new experience is to change your response to what happens.”
― Chris Prentiss, Zen and the Art of Happiness

Practice mindful meditation and use visualization to help channel your alpha state.
Use deep breathing exercises that release stress, tension, and bring you back to the stillness of the present moment.
Stick to a daily 1-hour workout regiment where you can enjoy yourself without feeling like a chore.
Channel your awareness and be real with how you feel.
Avoid using and abusing drugs and alcohol for your own physical, mental, and emotional health.
Surrender your own expectations or outcome and be humble in every experience.
Reflect on your blessings and all that you are grateful for.
Drink camomile tea before bed.
Create art as self-expression (poetry, music, painting, blogging, photography, etc.)
Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated so your body stays full of healthy nutrients.
Get the right amount of sleep so you wake up each morning feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the day.
Embrace other people even those who don’t act in accordance with how you think or feel. Hear them out so you can be open new perspectives rather than being trapped in your own bubble. You don’t have to agree with them, but you should listen. There might be an opportunity for you both to learn something from one another.
Look inward when an emotion arises and breathe in through your nose while staying calm as you feel your body’s reaction to the experience you just had. Before responding, think of the consequences and choose wisely.
Use music as a healing therapy.
Practice letting go of the past and forgive yourself for choices you made that you’ve come to regret. Realize that every experience is an opportunity to learn something new and no matter the outcome of any situation is exactly what was meant to be and how it was meant to happen.

“If you are surrounded by people who not only don’t believe in your goals and your positive outlook on life but who also continually try to tear you down, it will be extremely challenging for you to hold firmly in mind that you will succeed and that you can be happy.”
― Chris Prentiss, Zen and the Art of Happiness

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How to Cope with Heartbreak after a Breakup in Recovery

By Jennifer McDougall

Have you ever felt so heartbroken and lost after a breakup or tragic loss that suddenly took you by surprise? Unfortunately, most rehab facilities don’t provide you with the tools you need to deal with heartbreak in recovery, making it quite difficult to cope with the overwhelming pain and discomfort heartbreak brings upon the physical and emotional state of a person.

Recently, I had a conversation with a friend of mine who reached out to me for some advice on the subject as he is currently dealing with his own excruciating undertaking of heartbreak due to a recent breakup. The unanswered questions, the troubling confusion of what went wrong, the empty space of what was once filled with love and laughter now an aching sorrow of remorse and hopelessness.

Where does one turn for relief—for comfort in such a hurtful situation?

When you’re in recovery and you have been so courageous to choose to live a sober lifestyle, turning to drugs and alcohol is not an option. What we need is a community of caring individuals who are there for us to lean on and seek guidance from. Every situation is a little different and each one of us is certainly created differently so our thinking process may not be the same as the person next to us but one thing always remains the same—with a strong and reliable group of even a few people it always makes the difference between being alone and being heard.

Maybe we don’t understand immediately what went wrong or why we ended up having our heart completely shredded to pieces without even the slightest explanation. Maybe we do have a sense of what went wrong and we feel remorseful about it and full of regret. Maybe you said something that was a bit much or the person you were in love with realized the two of you just were not a good match for one another. Maybe you cheated. Maybe they cheated. Maybe they had a secret they were keeping could no longer go on living a lie. The possibilities are nearly endless as to why a relationship comes to an end. All we know is only reasonable option is to pick your self up off the ground and start to rebuild your confidence and keep trunckin on down the road with a sense of greater purpose and determination.

How can you mend your broken heart?

Make peace with the pain rather than escaping your heartache.

At Passages, we want to help you heal and move on so you can be clear on what to learn from this experience and grow from it. Here are 7 tips you can put into play throughout the coming days.

Get out our journal and put pen to paper. Write down your thoughts, your feelings, all about the relationship that can help you process everything you’ve been holding inside. If you need help with journal ideas use journal prompts.
Get outside and exercise. One of the best things you can do right now is to pull yourself out of that bed or off the couch and get outside to exercise in the fresh air. Whether it be a few powerful laps in the pool or a run around the block– just do it. Releasing endorphins and increasing your circulation with physical activity is going to help you feel a heck of a lot better.
Get social and stay connected with friends and family. It’s important you don’t isolate yourself during this time. For your emotional and mental well-being, it is recommended that you check in with loved ones at least once a day even if the time is brief– talk to them over the phone, grab a meal outside of the house together, go for a nature walk, or watch a movie together. Anyone of these activities will help you feel less alone and more involved socially rather than static and depressed.
Volunteer your time to a cause you care about. There is something truly rewarding when you lend a hand in your local community to help causes in need. It could be a simple as dog walking for your local animal shelter or being a mentor to a little boy or girl at the local Boys and Girls Club. Many organizations post opportunities online to make it easy for you to get connected and make a difference in other people’s life. What better way to heal from your own misery than to help someone less fortunate in need.
Maintain a healthy diet by eating and drinking nutritious foods that will give your body the fuel and strength you need to fight off illness, build and support muscle mass, and keep your energy level balanced. Staying hydrated is also a key factor in having a healthy intake regiment. Avoid drugs and alcohol as these substances are harmful to your body and impair decision making, which leads to creating more problems down the road.
When you look good, you’ll feel better. Dress up a little. Ladies: put some makeup on and do something different with your hair. Take care of your personal hygiene and maybe buy a new perfume or cologne. Get a haircut and your nails done. Polish up your look, because let’s be honest, when you look good you feel good!
Travel outside your normal day to day scene to expand your horizons. One thing that has always helped me when I’ve gone through a breakup is to travel. It’s more therapeutic than you may think. Changing up your view, stepping outside of your comfort zone and feeling empowered to be on your own is something that will give you a nice boost of confidence knowing you can’t be held down regardless of how terrible this person has made you feel. This is your time to do something for yourself. Live a little and have fun.

Love Yourself First

Stay focused on your goals during this troubling time you’re going through. Turn your pain into power and create something wonderful from your experience.

If you have any other tips or ideas you would like to add to this list, please feel free to comment below. We love hearing from our readers and what you have to say. Together we can make a difference in this world by helping one another pull through the challenges thrown at us on this road called life. There are going to be good days and there are going to be days where you may find it hard to get out of bed. No matter how you feel, who you are, or where you come from, we want you to know you are capable of achieving remarkable things if you set your mind to you and work hard towards your goals.

You are worthy of love. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise!

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

Call Passages Addiction Treatment Centers today if you or a loved one is battling an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. Our admissions department is available 24/7 and can be reached directly by calling our toll-free number at (888) 397-0112. We look forward to speaking with you soon.

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Think Positive Thoughts

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Overcoming Loneliness in Addiction Recovery

By Jennifer McDougall

Loneliness is often times what causes people to run to drugs and alcohol for relief away from their misery. They might not admit it right away, but eventually they truth seeps out. They are hurt for one reason or another and have chosen to distance themselves from society as best they can. This can be quite dangerous because extreme loneliness can also lead to major depression, overdose, and even suicide. It might not happen overnight, but as the days and weeks go by bad habits grow and have potential to become a full-blown addiction. This is why it’s important to evaluate your behavior pattern and keep your thoughts in check. It’s okay to feel lonely from time to time; in fact, it means you’re longing for something greater– something beyond just the company of yourself.

“Let me tell you this: if you meet a loner, no matter what they tell you, it’s not because they enjoy solitude. It’s because they have tried to blend into the world before, and people continue to disappoint them.”

― Jodi Picoult, My Sister’s Keeper

Instead of seeking out the human connection when a person is feeling lonely, often times they choose to isolate themselves because they would rather be alone where no one can hurt them than to be around people and feel vulnerable. This type of behavior attracts others who are experiencing similar situations, which can lead to destructive bonds and toxic relationships. When someone is lonely or feeling depressed instead of linking up with another who’s feeling the same, it would be best to seek out a friend or companion who can offer you strength and guidance rather than drag you down a road of darkness and destruction. It takes a great deal of awareness to notice the difference between helping you out with true integrity and a walk down the wrong path. It might even feel hopeless at times that there’s no one to relate to, but that feeling will soon pass.

Someone who is lonely and sinking into deep depression will begin to do just about anything to numb the pain racing through their bodies. It’s important to understand the simple act of kindness can do wonders for someone who’s feeling so awful. A simple phone call, text, funny Facebook post, or tagging them in a cute or inspirational meme can help more than you know.

To help prevent addiction from happening to someone you love, pay attention to the jokes (there’s a little truth behind every joke), listen when they speak (people suffering from loneliness and depression have to muster up more energy than you think just to speak), hug them as often as possible (human touch is very powerful), and don’t be afraid to check in on them once, twice, maybe three times a day. Even though someone says they want to be left alone, that’s not always true. What they truly want is just someone to sit quietly with them and be there.

If you are someone who has found yourself in the rabbit hole, drowning is poor choices, and a dependency on drugs and alcohol, make Passages Addiction Treatment Centers your next phone call. We offer the best drug and alcohol treatment in the world and rated “The Number 1 Rehab in The World” by Healthcare Global. Our team of licensed nurses are on site 24/7 and our holistic approach to healing is covered by most insurance policies. To learn more and get out of this hole you’ve crawled into call (888) 397-0112 today. Your future is waiting!

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by Passages Malibu

What to do When You Feel Depressed

By Jennifer McDougall

“You can be happy if you are willing to let go of your past and leave yourself unencumbered so you can fly freely.”

― Chris Prentiss, Zen and the Art of Happiness

One of the best ways to overcome the depressive state you’re currently in is to look at what it is that is the driving force of those emotions. Is it stressing from work or financial issues? Is it a relationship that is draining you or not giving you what you need to thrive? Is it a recent loss of someone you loved or cared for? To overcome anything, we must first look at what is causing what we are feeling.

Depression leads many people to do many self-destructive things in their lives that that later down the road regret. It can drag you down to the depths of despair and leave you feeling hallow and alone. There may be days you find yourself not sleeping or sleeping too much; not eating or eating to much. Depression also affects how much or little we have the drive to socialize with other people, even those we love. Sometimes there is no explanation to why you feel sad, you just do. We understand that, but we want to help you get out of this slump and start living life in a more inspiring and uplifting way so that you can be the remarkable person you were created to be.

Here are 10 simple tricks to help you get up, get motivated, and start embracing life again.

Take a long hot bath before bed with lavender oils and Epson salt to help relax your mind and body and detoxify your organs.
Wake up early no matter what day it is and go for a walk, swim, hike, or bike ride.
Remind yourself you are a strong individual who is loved and has so much grace and talent to give to this world.
Eat proper meals and drink plenty of water so your body gets all of the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
Give thanks to those who are good to you. Give thanks to yourself because you offer so much light to this world. Give thanks for a beautiful day no matter if there is rain or sunshine. Just give thanks.
Listen to uplifting music at home or in the car
Avoid any consumption of drugs and alcohol because these things on lead to making poor choices
Distance yourself from anyone who makes you feel less than, who discourages you, who doubts you, who is jealous of you, and who tries to rain on your beautiful day. Just smile and walk away.
Pick up an enchanting novel that will let your mind wander and expand your imagination
Give yourself a break. Be kind to yourself and let yourself rest when you’re worn out, drained or just need a day off. It’s okay. You must be good to yourself. This must be a priority.

Call Passages Addiction Treatment Centers today if you or a loved one is battling an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. Our admissions department is available 24/7 and can be reached directly by calling our toll-free number at (888) 397-0112. We look forward to speaking with you soon.

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What is Self-Sabotage?

Self-sabotage comes in many forms. It can be mental, emotional or physical.

In human context, self–destructive behavior is a widely used phrase that conceptualizes certain kinds of destructive acts as belonging to the self. It also has the property that it characterizes certain kinds of self-inflicted acts as destructive

It is possible that you or someone you know is self-destructive. It can become a bad habit that can only be corrected when the person realizes what they are doing and wants to stop. Sometimes it takes a person to hit rock bottom to then ask, “How did this happen to me?”

What Does it Mean to Self-Sabotage?

Many of those who are self-destructive have low self-esteem or self-respect. This can be brought on by a personal life event such as a change in job status, death of a loved one, or past trauma. Self-destructive behavior can also be a result of previous neglect, abuse, bullying (classmates, co-workers, ex-lovers, etc.), or a lack of accomplishment. A person may react with carelessness, anger, uncontrollable emotions, and irrational actions. Feelings of sadness, loneliness, and depression can be overwhelming, and cause the person to lose hope in life. In many cases, they will pretend to be happy and act like everything is fine; not admitting that they are struggling to cope.

You can help a loved one who suffers from self-destruction by being supportive, loving, kind, reassuring of their capabilities, and letting them know that they are special. There are cases that require professional help. To learn more, read “10 Signs of Self-Destruction” on our blog.

Call Passages Addiction Treatment Centers today if you or a loved one is battling an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. Our admissions department is available 24/7 and can be reached directly by calling our toll-free number at (888) 397-0112. We look forward to speaking with you soon.

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by Passages Malibu

25 Ways to Manage Emotional, Mental and Physical Pain

By Jennifer McDougall

When we feel overwhelmed with the amount of physical, emotional, and mental pain that can come at us in all channels of life, its no wonder people take to great strife for relief. Those who are suffering from physical, emotional, or mental pain often times find themselves indulging in the use of drugs and alcohol to “ease the tension”. This is not the answer though. In fact, drugs and alcohol usually only make matters much worse. Rather than reaching for prescription drugs or consuming alcohol, here are 25 healthy alternatives to help manage the pain you’re feeling:

Locate exactly where the pain is coming from
Reflect on what it was that caused you this pain in the first place and what is causing it to get worse or not ago away
Schedule acupuncture treatment by a professional
Avoid the use of drugs and alcohol
Learn to take control of stress with deep breathing methods
Low impact exercises 30-60 minutes a day such as yoga, Tai Chi, walking, swimming or scenic hiking
Write in a private journal every day
Avoid cigarettes and nicotine
Take a scenic drive with soothing music and the windows down
Eat healthy foods regularly (lots of omega-3, and whole grains)
Drink plenty of water every day – hydration is so important
Watch a funny movie, or feel good movie to bring comfort back into your life
Read an insightful and thought-provoking book or novel
Take a walk outdoors, if you can
Talk to someone you can trust about the pain you’re feeling
Indulge in a 20-30 minute warm Epson salt and lavender-infused bath with soft lights and music before bedtime
Hypnosis and guided imagery
Guided Meditation or meditation of your choice twice a day
Go for a light swim if you have permission to access to one nearby
Herbal remedies and supplements
Massage therapy
Hydrotherapy
Go to your local Chiropractor to have your spine realigned
Get enough sleep and allow yourself to relax
Let go of any guilt or shame you have been carrying around

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Learning to be With Your Pain Instead of Escaping It

By Jennifer McDougall

Pain is the most common reason behind addiction. It comes in many forms; physical, mental, and emotional pain. It stems from the brain and flows into your central nervous system. An extreme amount of pain and discomfort can potentially send you right over the edge, but if you listen closely, it can also be the most helpful thing that can happen for you. The majority of people who seek medical attention or temporarily relief through the use of drugs and alcohol do so, because they are experiencing some sort of pain. It is in fact, a survival mechanism to help protect your body. Those who are born without the ability to feel things due to issues within the central nervous system typically do not live long healthy lives. We must understand the importance of being able to feel everything our bodies are trying to communicate to us. When people use drugs and alcohol to numb their pain, their perceptions towards situations are altered, along with their consciousness and they increase the risk of making really lousy decisions.

Whether it’s from abuse (of any kind), trauma, fear, anxiety, or physical ailments; we have all felt pain one way or another. Throughout this journey in life, we must all learn to adjust to the changes that come and go. One thing that is guaranteed is change itself. Change is inevitable. What is causing your pain and sorrow one day could be gone the next. By trying to escape pain there is an immense potential of making matters extremely worse for ourselves and those we love. It’s important to be fully conscious and aware of our surroundings so that we can make good decisions and know when something is not right. Because of perhaps the horrible things that have happened in your life your body reminds you when something feels off or dangerous. When our heart breaks for the first time we learn to be more cautious in future relationships. When we cut our finger slicing veggies, or burn our hand on a hot pan, we learn to be more careful in the kitchen. When we have our first car accident we learn to be more aware of others on the road and pay close attention to what’s going on around us at all times. Pain teaches us lessons in life and that’s something we shouldn’t ignore.

There are times in your life when you may be stressed, overwhelmed, broken, hurt beyond belief, and sad over a loss. Pain is a natural feeling that is meant to be felt. To be with your pain means to accept what is happening in your life and throughout your body. We have a natural right to feel everything that this sometimes cruel and unfair world throws at us. The best part about all of it is that you have a choice. You can either choose to accept what is, let go of what is not (anymore), and cope with an attitude of optimism that circumstances will improve.

Your mind and body must heal from the pain you have experienced over time. This can be done by using therapy methods such as the ones used at Passages Addiction Treatment Centers. For anyone who is or has suffered with emotional, mental, or physical pain, knows the discomfort that can be debilitating. When you experience pain there is an instant shock-wave like feeling that erupts and at times, it feels so uncontrollable. When this happens, you must first practice deep breathing and try to remain calm.

Reaching for the bottle or a substance to get high isn’t the solution. When you find yourself in a situation where you are sinking deep with a weight of pain; call a friend, go for a quiet walk, have a cup of tea, write in a private journal, or turn up your favorite song and sing it out loud. Life is better when you can learn to manage your pain instead of escaping it. Other means of pain relieve can also be helpful such as acupuncture, massage, meditation, and stretching exercises. A healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and 7-8 hours of nightly rest will also help.

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5 Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency

By Jennifer McDougall

There are many of us who have vitamin deficiencies that we are completely unaware of, but need to recognize. One of the most common vitamin deficiencies is Vitamin D. Have you ever noticed how much better you feel on vacation- when you are out in the sun for a while and soaking up the rays? That’s because your body is taking in vitamin D. This is something we don’t get when we are cooped up inside and feel increasingly bloated, tired, depressed, unmotivated, and uninspired.

There are so many benefits of vitamin D. Research has shown that vitamin D has the power to improve your mood, strengthen your bones, assist with weight loss, regulate blood pressure, and increase your endurance. So in order to prevent you from being part of the 35% of Americans who are vitamin D deficient, here are 5 things you need to look out for as signs that it’s time to get out in the sun and take vitamin D supplements.

You feel sad, lost, confused, or lonely when you are generally happy and stable.
Your muscles seem smaller than usual, but you work out on a regular basis.
Your body is incredibly sensitive to pain and you feel aching in your bones.
You have little energy throughout the day and often times reach for the 2pm cup of coffee.
You have lost color in your face and your skin is anything but glowing at the moment.

Here are several suggestions for supplements and ways to get the vitamin D that you need in order to feel your best.

Supplements: NatureWise Vitamin D3
Spend 20-30 minutes outside every day, unless weather conditions do not permit.
Eat more salmon, tuna, trout, and eel.
Eat egg yolks regularly.
Use ultraviolet lamps occasionally, but in moderation.

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10 Ways to Overcome Symptoms of Depression

By Jennifer McDougall

Depression affects millions of people across the world; of all ages. In many cases, those who suffer from depression also suffer from anxiety disorders, as well as, drug and alcohol addictions. It is not uncommon for those suffering from depression symptoms to turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to temporarily numb the pain and regain a pinch of satisfaction. The problem with this type of outlet is that it tends to lead to an array of health problems, emotional stress, loss of clarity and mental focus, as well as financial and relationship trouble.

When someone is feeling depressed they may not reach out immediately for help or want to talk about what is causing them to feel alone and hopeless. There are many situations and circumstances that can cause a person to feel this way. It could be due to loosing a job, breakup, financial struggle, loss of a loved one, poor diet, lack of exercise and outdoor activity, or major change at home or work. They may not feel like they add up to the expectations drawn out for them. Without supportive friends and family members, many of the difficulties we face in life tend to be much more challenging.

Many of us go through certain phases in life; we experience changes in our relationships, finances, and careers. Through those changes it is important to remain focused on our goals so that we don’t get overwhelmed with the “what if’s”, “why not’s”, “how come’s” and “what now.”

It is not uncommon for someone to experience symptoms of depression a few times throughout their lives. What matters most is what to look out for and know how to treat these symptoms before things take a downward spiral towards physical harm, addiction, or suicide.

Here are a several signs that you or someone you care about is suffering with depression.

An overwhelming sense of sadness
Loss of concentration and interest
On-going negative thoughts and comments
Excessive drinking or use of drugs
Aggression or reckless behavior
Too little or too much sleep
Little to no motivation or enthusiasm
Extreme changes in appetite
Suicidal thoughts or remarks

Depression is not something to ever feel ashamed of. It affects millions of people who have managed to overcome the symptoms and go on to live a happy and healthy life. Here are 10 ways to overcome the dark dreary symptoms of depression.

Connect with friends and family who help motivate and support you in a positive way.
Get 8 hours of sleep.
Drink plenty of water.
Meditate
Eat healthy.
Avoid drugs and alcohol.
Add lighting and spruce up your living space.
Journal your thoughts, ideas, and day-to-day experiences.
Watch feel-good or funny movies.
Change up your worn out routine.

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Older Posts

depression

Selected resources

Examples of inner demons:

Regrets

Trauma

Substance Abuse

Fears

Jealousy

Pain

Anger

Depression

Self-Doubt

Feelings of being stuck

Desire to seek revenge and harm others

Worries about money, health, or romance

Loss of worthiness and purpose for life

Address the core issues and unresolved events from the past with a therapist

Practice letting go through meditation, hypnotherapy, psychotherapy and other holistic treatment methods such as the ones offered at Passages Rehab

Develop a strong self-care routine that you stick to on a daily basis (time alone, quality time with friends and family, massage, hair & nail care, facials, reading, writing, painting, disconnecting from technology & social media, healthy dieting etc.)

Forgive yourself and others from previous events by telling them personally or just quietly saying the words to yourself in your own privacy

Bring your fears, pain, trauma, and worries to surface– be real with how you feel as you experience a vast range of different emotions as you heal through this difficult yet courageous process

Factors that can influence self-esteem include:

Traits of a Healthy Self Esteem:

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

3 Ways to Benefit from Physical Fitness Today:

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

“There is no cell culture for depression. You can’t see it on a bone scan or an x-ray. Not everyone with depression will show the same behavioral symptoms.” ― Chris Prentiss, The Alcoholism and Addiction Cure

Sudden withdrawal from social gatherings, friends, and family engagement

Excessive moodiness (extreme ups and downs) without much of a reason why or explanation

Substance abuse (increase in drug or alcohol use)

Change in sleep patterns (Sleeping much more or less than usual)

Harmful or reckless behavior

Expresses a feeling of hopelessness and unwillingness to live anymore

Reaching out to old friends and family members as a way to say goodbye

Other means of preparations such as getting rid of personal belongings

A decline in hygiene and usual self-care practices

Threats of committing suicide (50%-70% of those thinking of committing suicide will give a friend or family member a verbal warning or threat)

If you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts, please the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at call 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7. Your life matters. Please talk to someone today.

How to Contact Passages Addiction Treatment Centers:

mood swing

Get on a regular workout regiment that will have you moving more frequently

Practice deep breathing exercises that will settle your level of stress and refocus your mental energy so you can think clearly and be more present without anxiety

Write down what is bothering you

Avoid consuming drugs, alcohol, and caffeine

Stop comparing your life or situation to anyone else’s. Self-awareness is your best friend and you have a lot going for you if you stop and look at the beauty that around you. No one is you and that my friend is your power!

Make a serious effort to change whatever it is that has you feeling down

Take natural supplements such as 5-HTP, L-Theanine, St. John’s Wort, or Passion Flower

Begin doing Yoga– either take a class or practice it at home on your own time

Rest between activities. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself to a nap here and there.

Be sure you are eating the right nutrients and fueling your body with plenty of water every day. Take the right vitamins as well so you can perform your best during your day-to-day functions.

Take time for yourself to recharge. Make a day or night of it where you just relax and unwind in the comfort of your own home, the gym, or a day spa.

Talk to a therapist or medical professional regarding your imbalance if none of the above suggestions help resolve your mood swings

“The best way for you to get that new experience is to change your response to what happens.” ― Chris Prentiss, Zen and the Art of Happiness

How can you mend your broken heart?

Make peace with the pain rather than escaping your heartache.

Stay focused on your goals during this troubling time you’re going through. Turn your pain into power and create something wonderful from your experience.

“Let me tell you this: if you meet a loner, no matter what they tell you, it’s not because they enjoy solitude. It’s because they have tried to blend into the world before, and people continue to disappoint them.”

― Jodi Picoult, My Sister’s Keeper

“There is no cell culture for depression. You can’t see it on a bone scan or an x-ray. Not everyone with depression will show the same behavioral symptoms.”
― Chris Prentiss, The Alcoholism and Addiction Cure

“The best way for you to get that new experience is to change your response to what happens.”
― Chris Prentiss, Zen and the Art of Happiness