Call Us on WhatsApp (English)  +66 97 943 6477            ติดต่อสอบถาม ภาษาไทย : 098 081 9628 

siam rehab logo

Addiction in the Medical Profession

Addiction in the Medical Profession

While the statistics for addiction amongst doctors and nurses might be high, this group of people also has one of the highest rates of recovery once they do go to rehab.

Addiction in the Medical Profession

In the United States, both doctors and nurses account for some of the highest rates of addiction in the workplace. Similar statistics apply for Australia, the United Kingdom, and France; however, are infrequently published. It is believed in the United States, approximately 100,000 doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare workers struggle with abuse or addiction. Most of them are turning to amphetamines to help them get through their long working hours or narcotics such as oxycodone or fentanyl. What makes addiction in the medical profession different from other workplace environments is the accessibility to various drugs. In general, it is much easier for a medical worker to access addictive drugs; thus it is easy to feed the addiction.

Common Reasons for Using Drugs or Alcohol in the Healthcare Workplace

Like other working professionals, there are various reasons as to why a healthcare worker might turn to drug or alcohol use. The following are some of the most common reasons for addiction in the medical profession include, but are not limited to:

  • To stay alert or awake during an overnight shift
  • To escape the emotional pain that might result from an upsetting outcome
  • To concentrate or focus on pressing issues
  • To cope with difficult decisions
  • To cope with an imbalance between work and life
  • To deal with the loss of enthusiasm about their career choice

Nurses face unique forms of anxiety and stress. In addition to facing the aforementioned, nurses might also face the following stress related to:

  • A high amount of responsibility
  • Having to be adaptable to ongoing change
  • The pressure in making decisions that are potentially life threatening
  • The lack of resources needed
  • Management issues
  • Physical demands of the job

Pharmacists have a key role in the medical industry and also face their own type of stress load. Many pharmacists are overworked and struggle to find a balance between their job and home life. As a rehab for medical professionals, we know of pharmacists who talk about:

  • Job instability
  • Being overworked
  • Facing short staffing issues
  • Limited continuing education
  • Inflexible managers or supervisors

Although it might not be discussed here, it is important to remember that there are many people involved in the medical profession (i.e. paramedics, police officers, physician assistants, technicians, front desk works, hospital cleaners, etc.). All of these workers face work in a high paced environment that involves a lot of emotional, mental distress, and anxiety. This also means that their vulnerability to develop an addiction is considerably high.

When a medical worker develops an addiction to alcohol or drugs, help is needed. Usually, they will be attempting to mask a problem or work-related issues, and have turned to a vice that will worsen their situation. It is important to know that a rehab for medical professionals is always available.

Statistics for Addiction in the Medical Profession

According to the Journal of Clinical Nursing, approximately 20 percent of nurses in the United States have an addiction to drugs or alcohol.

  • About 1 in 10 medical doctors will abuse or become addicted to a substance at some point during their career.
  • Healthcare workers who go to a rehab for medical professionals, and participate in aftercare, have a far lower rate of relapse than other groups of people.
  • 71 percent of healthcare workers who receive addiction treatment are still sober, licensed, and employed after 5 years.

While the statistics for addiction amongst doctors and nurses might be high, this group of people also has one of the highest rates of recovery once they do go to rehab.

Signs of Addiction Amongst Healthcare Workers

Identifying an addiction in doctors, nurses, or other healthcare workers might not be as straightforward as other groups of people. This is because this group of people are usually considered to be highly functional addicts. In other words, they are able to maintain their career, home life, and even addiction without others noticing.

  • Opting for night shifts where it might be easier to obtain medication
  • Changing positions or jobs often
  • Sleeping excessively between shifts or on the job
  • Eagerly volunteering to administer narcotics
  • Anxious about working extra shifts
  • Taking frequent bathroom breaks
  • Unexplained absences
  • Smelling of alcohol
  • Financial hardship
  • Family distress
  • Small pupils
  • Glassy eyes
  • Unusual relationships with coworkers who prescribe medications
  • Repeated errors on paperwork

Why Healthcare Workers Might Turn to Drugs or Alcohol

When it comes to addiction in the medical profession, one must understand that healthcare workers are faced with many unique aspects that make these workers more prone to drug or alcohol use.

As a rehab for nurses, we know that many medical workers feel tempted to try out, and eventually abuse, prescription drugs like fentanyl or oxycodone. Even though they must go through different measures to access the drugs, it is still relatively easy to do so. Depending on the medical facility, there might be internal issues with accounting for the medications as they are administered. Medical professionals also understand the effects of these medications. These effects might encourage them to try and experience the sensations on their own.

Along with their long working hours, nurses and doctors are required to make fast decisions regarding the wellbeing of a patient. In the event they feel as if an outcome was their responsibility, and there is a sense of regret with that outcome, various negative emotions might arise. A fragile emotional or mental state can encourage the use of drugs or alcohol.

Rehab for Medical Professionals

Doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals are in a highly-respected line of work; however, that does not make them immune to addiction. There are rehabs that cater to these professionals and offer them a healthy start towards life. Elements that may be included in treatment are:

  • Returning to a professional practice
  • Avoiding potential triggers inside and outside the workplace
  • Restoring your career
  • Returning to work
  • How to address possible disciplinary issues
  • Participating in aftercare treatment

It cannot be emphasised enough that medical professionals have a higher than average rate of maintaining sobriety after going to rehab. This is a strong reason to remain optimistic and get help as soon as possible.

Are You a Medical Professional with an Addiction to Drugs or Alcohol?

Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers not only put their life at risk, but also the wellbeing of patients in their care. It might be difficult to accept that there is a problem; however, the sooner, the better. This can prevent accidents from happening on the job, or accusations of neglect from patients and their loved ones. It may also avoid a loss of licence which could be devastating. If you are a medical professional and addicted to drugs or alcohol, Siam Rehab may be able to help you. As a leading rehab for medical professionals, we have the necessary staff, knowledge, and experience to help you reclaim your life and get back to maintaining an optimal career path. To learn more about our drug and alcohol rehab in Thailand, call Siam Rehab today.

Nurses with An Addiction

Nurses with An Addiction

Are you a nurse suffering from an addiction? If so, help at Siam Rehab is available now. 

Nurses with An Addiction

When people think about a nurse, they will often think about their nurturing care and willingness to put others first. Most nurses choose their profession based on these characteristics, and they work hard to establish themselves. While nurses are highly regarded in every country, they are humans too, and not immune from experiencing stress, depression, and even the development of an addiction.

When anyone has an addiction, regardless of their profession, they will be struggling. It is not a choice to become addicted to something, but rather a disorder of the brain. In general, people do not intend to become addicted to alcohol or drugs. It is something that can happen, especially with continued use. Once someone has developed an addiction, it may be very difficult to get sober.

Given their profession as a person who treats many conditions and illnesses, with varying outcomes, nurses are not immune to substance abuse. In fact, addiction amongst nurses is unfortunately high in the western world. For nurses who continue to practice while struggling with an addiction, the stakes are high. If a nurse is caught abusing alcohol or drugs, he or she could lose their career. For this reason, many of them are considered to be high-functioning addicts. More often than not, those closest to them have no idea about the addiction.

There is hope. Nurses with an addiction do not need to suffer alone, and in silence. They also don’t need to be afraid of losing their career and everything they have worked for.

According to recent data, 10 percent of the United States’ 3.9 million nurses have an addiction. Data for other countries like the United Kingdom and Australia has not been released. However, governments in Australia have discussed concerns about the high rate of nurses with addictions.

Nurses are considered to be a group of professionals who are considered to work in high stress situations, and are more vulnerable to addictions. Other professionals in this group include pilots, military veterans, police officers, lawyers, ambulance personnel, and dentists. Prescription painkillers and amphetamines are the most common drug abused by nurses. Alcohol is also a top substance of abuse.

Risk Factors of Nurses

Nurses are exposed to unique challenges. This is simply because of what they do. At the same time, every nurse has his or her own biological and genetic makeup. This also defines who they are. When it comes to nurses with an addiction, the most common risk factors may include environmental and biological factors. They might also experience factors like:

Long Shifts – It is not uncommon for a nurse to work 12-15 hours, scheduled back to back or overnight. They can be exhausted, and this can contribute to a nurses’ interest in stimulants like amphetamines, Adderall, or cocaine. These drugs can help a nurse to stay awake and alert; however, they are very addicting.

Access – Nurses have access to many different medications, which can increase their risk for abusing them. Even though they must maintain a count of these drugs, it is certainly possible to abuse them.

Stress – The profession of a nurse can be stressful. Patients often rely on the nurse to keep them healthy, and in some cases, alive. The ongoing stress can cause fatigue, anxiety, and emotional breakdowns. These feelings have the potential to trigger the onset of abuse or addiction.

Genetics – Nurses who have family members with a history of addiction or mental health problems may be at an increased risk for substance abuse or addiction.

Addiction Treatment for Nurses at Siam Rehab

At Siam Rehab, a rehab in Thailand, we know how a profession, such as nursing, can act as a catalyst for drug or alcohol dependency. As a leading rehab in Thailand, our team understands the stressors nurses may be dealing with. We know that sometimes, a nurse will develop an addiction and need help. We are proud to offer our programme for nurses with an addiction. During the treatment process, our nurse clients will have access to a supported detoxification, therapies, fitness and exercise, meditation, yoga, and aftercare options. Because we are a rehab in Thailand, we are able to offer the utmost confidentiality and privacy. Many of our nurse clients appreciate the ability to take a holiday, or vacation, to Thailand for rehab. From the moment treatment at Siam Rehab begins to the time they graduate and get back to their life, we will offer guidance, support, and knowledge to every nurse who comes our way.

If you are a nurse with an addiction and ready to get professional help, call Siam Rehab, we can help.

Source:

7 Things To Do After Rehab

7 Things To Do After Rehab

Recovery is a lifelong process. In order to be successful in your addiction recovery, it is essential to incorporate various techniques into your daily life after rehab.

7 Things You Should Do When You Leave Rehab

It is often said, that when it comes to an addiction, “recovery is a lifelong process”. Just because you might have completed an addiction treatment programme does not mean that is the end of your recovery. Rather, this is just the beginning.

In our experience, we have seen some people leaving our rehab facility with conflicted emotions and a fear of being back in the world. Others were excited and eager to start their life over. Regardless of what a person might be feeling, rehabs need to place an emphasis on the importance of adhering to an aftercare programme.

Most drug and alcohol rehab programmes  are between 28 and 90 days. Siam Rehab will take clients up to a year when appropriate. During the time in an inpatient programme patients will have structure, security, and 24-7 care. Outside of rehab, a person will have to adjust to daily life and rely largely on the tools they learned during treatment. The rehab you attended should have taught you a broad range of tools and techniques that can help you adjust to life after rehab.  Some of the addiction recovery techniques Siam Rehab encourage include the following:

1: Create a Post- Treatment, Aftercare Plan

Whether you are moving to an outpatient programme or returning home after an inpatient programme. you should create a practical plan that helps you to maintain your sobriety. Generally, this plan will be created with the guidance of your counsellor, therapist, or case manager. Some elements that may be included in the plan are:

  • How you will practice a healthy lifestyle?
  • Who you can connect with for support?
  • Where you can receive continued healthcare, including counselling?
  • How you will manage a situation that could trigger a relapse?

Many private drug rehabs offer aftercare programmes. This may also be known as a recovery community, alumni services or continued care. Aftercare programmes will be overseen by trained addiction specialists and typically include:

  • Individual counselling
  • Group therapy (including online sessions)
  • Medication
  • Recovery checkups (online, by phone, or in person)
  • Support groups
  • Resources for housing, legal issues, or employment
  • + more

2: Locate a Support Group

Many drug and alcohol rehabs will incorporate a recovery support group of some kind. The most popular ones include, SMART RECOVERYAlcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. AA and NA groups are based on the 12 Steps and encourage a strong fellowship between their peers. SMART Recovery is a newer more evidence based approach still using groups and a sober social network. 

Following rehab, it might be tempting to skip these meetings in lieu of staying at home or spending time with loved ones. However, these groups are a vital source of ongoing support. You will be able to give and receive advice, learn more about your addiction, and enjoy sober outings (as scheduled by the group).

3: Make Sober Friends

Many addictions begin, or worsen, through peer pressure and the influence of others. If you have built friendships around drinking or using drugs, it will be in your best interest to break off the relationship. Regardless of how difficult this might be, your life may depend on it. After rehab, look for sober friends who will encourage your sobriety and help you to stay on the path of recovery.

4: Take Care of Your Mental Health

Leaving a drug and alcohol rehab and returning to your home can cause stress, confusion, and worry. This is common for people in early recovery. It is important to express gratitude in your daily routine, and avoid focusing on things that are negative or stress you out. Remember, a large part of suffering comes from our own imagination. So, if you find yourself thinking too much about negative things or ideas, take a deep breath and focus on something that is positive (i.e. the sun, a child, a pet, a flower, a funny moment, etc.)

5: Exercise Everyday

Exercise and meditation are also important and have a key role in your well being and overall addiction recovery. Take time everyday to focus on your breath. This will help to reduce any noise in your head. Regular exercise can reduce your anxiety or feelings of depression. Be sure to take at least 30 minutes everyday for some kind of exercise. If you feel overwhelmed, it may be a good idea to talk with your therapist or a sober support buddy.

6: Try New Activities and Hobbies

While in active addiction many people will give up on hobbies and activities that they use to enjoy and love. Now that you are sober, think back, before the drugs or alcohol what did you love to do? Did you love running, playing music, golf, whatever you use to love to do. Can’t think of anything? Go try new things and find something you love, just try and think of activities that don’t mix well with drugs or alcohol.

7: Help Others

You might have heard of the expression “To help yourself, you must help others.” Research suggests helping others is an integral part of the recovery process. After going to a drug and alcohol rehab you should make an effort to be of service.

Some ways you can do this, include:

  • Share your experiences, wisdom, encouragement, and vulnerability with other addicts
  • Volunteer at an animal shelter
  • Visit elders at a nursing home facility
  • Mentor children who have limited attention in their home life
  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen
  • Talk about your addiction recovery with others who may relate to your own experience

Acts of kindness, in the form of helping others, cultivates a sense of purpose and improves self esteem. If you don’t know where to begin, you can contact your local SMART Recovery, NA or AA Group, a religious organisation, such as a church or temple, or your community social services centre.

7 things to do after rehab

Conclusion

Congratulations on being clean and sober, it is easy to stay off drugs and alcohol in an inpatient rehab. The real work starts now that you are out of the 24/7 safe environment. 

It is ok to be afraid and worried, a little bit of fear is a good thing since you don’t want to go back to where you were before inpatient rehab. 

But remember you are clean and sober now, you are not physically dependant on drugs or alcohol, you can choose to stay clean or you can choose to use. Your entire new life is waiting for you if you decide to stay abstinent. Go live it!

Adderall versus Methamphetamine

Adderall versus Methamphetamine

Adderall and methamphetamine are both amphetamines; however, they are not the same drug. When misused, Adderall can pose an addictive risk, and both stimulants could lead a person to need rehab for amphetamines.

Adderall versus Methamphetamine

Over recent years, children, adolescents, and adults are being prescribed the medication known as Adderall to treat the symptoms of ADHD. As prescriptions for the drug increase, so too does improper usage, abuse, and addiction.

As a leading rehab for meth, many family members of our clients voice their concerns about their loved ones’ meth use, as well as, whether or not it is similar to Adderall. In fact, one of the most common misconceptions with the drug Adderall is that it is the same as meth, or methamphetamine. This article is meant to help readers understand the differences between Adderall and methamphetamine.

Adderall versus Methamphetamine

Adderall is a combination drug which is derived from amphetamine, a parent drug of methamphetamine. Because the term ‘amphetamine’ is associated with both Adderall and methamphetamine, they are often thought to be the same. This has led to a number of studies that compare both drugs to one another.

The results of the studies regarding Adderall versus Methamphetamine have been successful in demonstrating many similarities, but also a few clear differences. The studies also raised questions regarding the safety of Adderall; particularly with children. As a rehab for meth, we have known of people who seek out a prescription for Adderall by claiming to have the symptoms of ADHD, but never actually having the condition. Some people have eventually turned to meth when they are seeking a stronger, or easier to access, high.

Amphetamines

Adderall is known as a combination drug. It contains four different salts of amphetamine. Amphetamine is regularly used to treat narcolepsy, obesity, and ADHD, as well as other conditions. Amphetamine is the parent drug of methamphetamine, a drug developed early in the 20th century. Amphetamine and methamphetamine do share similarities.

According to the United States National Institute on Drug Abuse, larger amounts of methamphetamine are released into the brain during use. This results in “longer-lasting and more harmful effects on the central nervous system.” Meth is also more toxic than Adderall and can cause neurological damage. In very rare scenarios, methamphetamine can be prescribed to a person. When this is true, the drug is a very low dose compared to what a person abusing it may use. Finally, while it is certainly possible to go to an Adderall rehab, it is more common for a person to have used Adderall, but eventually graduate to methamphetamine; thereby requiring treatment at a rehab for meth.

How Adderall and Meth are Similar

The most noticeable similarity between Adderall and meth is the effects the drug has on a person. Both Adderall and methamphetamine are stimulants that increase focus, attention, and ongoing stimulation. The reaction is typically the primary reason a person will use the drug. It is not uncommon for highschoolers and college students to use Adderall during studying for exams or tests. Athletes may use it to increase their performance and stamina. Using Adderall like this will almost certainly cause a dependency when it is used concurrently or often. Both Adderall and methamphetamine might also be used by teenagers or adults to lose weight quickly. The drugs can also cause a decrease in appetite, increased heart rate, rapid blood pressure, and very high energy levels.

The Primary Differences Between Adderall versus Meth

One of the most notable differences between meth and Adderall is the chemical compound that is used to create drugs. Adderall contains a mixture of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts. Whereas, methamphetamine is made from a double methylation process. In other words this process allows meth to be lipid soluble; thereby, able to cross the blood brain barrier. The cross of the blood brain barrier causes the drug to affect the brain cells and tissue of the user.

According to studies, people who are legitimately prescribed Adderall for ADHD can benefit from improved cognitive and social abilities. They have also demonstrated more self control and focus, as well as a slight increase in IQ. Improved relationships might also be noticed. Methamphetamine use, on the other hand, shows a significant decrease in these areas, especially after long term use. A meth rehab in Thailand, or elsewhere, will also usually be needed.

Can Adderall Be Addictive?

Although Adderall does not cross the blood brain barrier, and improves the symptoms of ADHD, there are many people who use the drug without a valid prescription. Studies in the United States suggest at least 30 % of all Adderall prescribed is sold or given away. Those who abuse the medication might turn to snorting it, and when this happens, brain damage, psychosis, weakened immune systems, heart problems might occur. Prolonged use of Adderall can cause an addiction, and with some people, negative circumstances can occur. In this case an Adderall rehab may be necessary. The risk of having a heart attack or stroke with prolonged use of Adderall is also higher; the same applies to meth use. One of the greatest concerns for people who use Adderall against, or without, a prescription is that they will not be able to get the medication. Methamphetamine may be their next go-to choice.

Signs of an Amphetamine Addiction

If you notice the following symptoms, and believe an amphetamine addiction is possible, a Thailand addiction treatment centre may be able to help you:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Excessive sleeping (for 15-36 hours or more at a time)
  • Staying awake for long periods of time (often more than 24 hours)
  • Social isolation
  • Hyperactivity
  • Unusual excitability
  • Paranoia
  • Financial problems
  • Overly talkative
  • Tinkering with things
  • Strange behaviour

A meth or Adderall addict does not need to exhibit all of the aforementioned symptoms to have an addiction. However, you should be in tune with these signs so you know when a rehab for meth or Adderall may be necessary.

A Rehab for Meth or Adderall

Many people with an amphetamine addiction have come to our meth rehab in Thailand, completed our programme. and gone on to live a satisfying, healthy, and very successful life. Our individual programme enables patients to succeed in their recovery. We are ready to offer you guidance and support through individual counselling, group therapy, nutritional advice, fitness activities, relaxation techniques, and more.

If you or someone you know has an amphetamine addiction, you are not alone. Contact our meth rehab in Thailand for support, advice, and the right treatment to help you turn your life around. Call Siam Rehab now.