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Returning to Work Post-COVID-19

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Throughout the world, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to dramatically affect the lives of individuals. As our communities continue to reopen, many people are struggling to enter back into the workforce without any negative emotions. 

 

When the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic, hundreds of millions of people were forced to lockdown, abruptly transition to working from home, or for those that did not have that option, lose their jobs entirely.

 

For months the future looked and felt uncertain for so many people, and in some respects it still does. Even with a large portion of the U.S. population receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, the fear of returning to work and potentially being exposed lingers. 

 

As we all transition into this new normal, and as businesses start to bring back their employees, many individuals returning to work are struggling to feel safe. After more than a year of either not working, or working remotely, many employees are experiencing return-to-work anxiety coupled with stress at the thought of returning to an office setting. After all, for over a year, people have been repeatedly advised how deadly this virus is and how important it is to social distance. The thought of being close to others is terrifying for some individuals. Employees are inquiring as to what steps their employers are taking to keep them safe as they transition back to work amid a pandemic? We’ve compiled some information to help both employees and employers as we ease back into the workplace. 

What is the Risk of COVID-19 Contact in the Workplace?

 

The risk of exposure to COVID-19 depends on the likelihood of coming into prolonged, close contact with others, having frequent physical interaction with others who may be infected with the virus, as well as coming into contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. 

Are There Preventative Measures a Person Can Take to Avoid Exposure?

 

Many employers are seeking the support of an occupational health and safety advisor to carry out a rapid risk assessment. This is used for determining their staff’s exposure risk to implement preventative measures. Before returning to work, verify what, if any, preventative measures your employer has created. 

 

The WHO has created key measures that all employers should be implementing regardless of the industry. They include frequent hand-washing, disinfecting stations with alcohol-based hand sanitizer, respiratory hygiene (covering coughs, physical distancing, wearing face coverings, regular environmental cleaning, and disinfection, and limiting unnecessary travel). Employers should create and implement clear policies, training, and education for all staff members to inform them of COVID-19 protocols. Additionally, employers must encourage unwell workers or anyone who develops symptoms to stay home, self-isolate, and contact a medical professional immediately. Providing employees with COVID-19 information such as testing centers is a great way to keep employees informed. 

The Rights, Duties, and Responsibilities of Employers and Employees

 

Employers, workers, and their organizations should strive to collaborate with health authorities to help prevent and control COVID-19. Employers should implement measures that prevent and mitigate exposures at the workplace while also providing personal protective equipment determined necessary through the risk assessment. To protect workers at higher risk such as those ages 60 and over, or those with underlying medical conditions, special measures should be taken.

 

Workers must follow the measures for occupational safety and health to help control the spread of COVID within the workplace. Workers have the right to remove themselves from any work situation that presents an imminent and serious danger to their life or health and must be protected from any unseemly consequences.

Tips to Overcome Return-to-Work Anxiety

 

Plan Ahead. As you transition back to work, finding some control over the uncertainty can help ease your anxiety. These can be simple things such as revisiting your work wardrobe, prepping your lunch, or organizing any work-related items. 

 

Find the Good. This transition can be nerve-wracking, but do your best to seek the good in returning to work to help boost hope and optimism which in turn can help quiet your worry and anxiety. Think about the coworkers that you have missed or the customer’s smiles that brighten your day. 

 

Talk About It. Find your person and vent away or start utilizing a journal. Expressing our feelings is a great way to help ease our worries and anxieties about what we are feeling. It is easy to get lost in our thoughts and emotions, so we need to make time to express ourselves. Remember your feelings matter. Feel those feelings, but find a way to release them and not be consumed by them. 

 

As the world seeks some normalcy, many people are feeling anxious and uncomfortable to return to anything. Many individuals are returning to work full-time, forced to be near people – people they have been told to avoid for over a year. It is no wonder so many are consumed with negative emotions as they transition back to the workforce. Anxiety and stress are normal reactions to heavy situations. It is important to find outlets to help ease those stresses and worries such as knowing your rights as an employee and asking the right questions. Your safety within the workplace is vital and a requirement. When employers and employees work together to find measures that keep each person sane and safe, it creates a workspace that is much easier to come back to. If you are struggling with negative emotions due to COVID, reach out to Achieve Medical Concierge today. Call today (858) 221-0344.

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Have Social Media Platforms Started to Negatively Affect You?

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We live in a world that thrives off being the best; having the highest paying job, the fanciest cars, or the biggest homes, not to mention looking physically flawless. For many of us looking in, as we watch (or scroll) through the story these individuals create online, we tend to start comparing our whole being to these people. How do they make everything they do look so effortless?

Creating the Illusion of Perfection

 

It’s been a problem for decades. At one time it was a flip through a magazine, but now it is literally in the palm of our hands. Some social media influencers are there in an attempt to inspire us, but unfortunately, most of the time they just leave us feeling worse about ourselves. How is she so skinny? Why doesn’t this product make my skin look like theirs? Their house is perfect! Even people in your circle tend to post pictures of how wonderful their life is, even during a pandemic. Their house may be cleaner, or they may post stories about how wonderful their time together with family has been. Meanwhile, you’re feeling like there’s a constant rain cloud hovering over everything you do. 

 

For those struggling with things such as depression, poor body image, or a lack of self-confidence, scrolling endlessly through pages of flawless lifestyles and beautiful people becomes too much. Too much time spent on social media can be downright unhealthy for our mental health. According to a recent study from the American Psychiatric Association, one-third of adults who use social media stated that it was harmful to their mental health and only five percent of users said that it was positive for their mental health. 

How to Manage Social Media

 

You’re not alone, though, and you know what else? All those pages of people and lifestyles are not perfect, but deep down, you already knew that. Here are several tips to help you keep scrolling and to love yourself and appreciate everything that you are achieving every single day. 

  • Limit your time spent on social media 

It’s hard not to scroll endlessly on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or any other platform. You can blink, and suddenly it’s been hours since you went on to “check on your feed”. Reality check—social media can interrupt in-person communications. Have you ever been so deep into your feed, and maybe a friend, parent, or spouse has to yell your name just because you’re completely zoned in your phone? By being buried in your phone, you’re missing out on so many in-person experiences. Lift your head because there’s a beautiful world in front of you. Try scheduling certain times each day when you’re on social media. Make small adjustments, such as not checking your phone during meals or when you’re hanging out with friends and family. Another great idea is to not keep your phone near your bed to avoid the temptation of scrolling on it just before you fall asleep. 

  • Schedule regular time outs 

Several studies have shown that when a person takes even a week off of social media, they have decreased stress levels resulting in higher life satisfaction. Quitting cold turkey is not necessary. Even users who cut it down to 10 minutes a day showed positive effects on their mental well-being. You may also find that a few short spurts on your favorite platforms each day can help you feel better rather than spending hours exhaustively scrolling through a site’s feed. Finding the right method that works for you may take some trial and error, and that’s okay, just make sure to give yourself some breaks from social media as often as possible. 

  • Create your own space

Research has shown that individuals who exclusively browse other people’s posts are more likely to feel worse about themselves than those who post their material and who actively engage with others online. Social media platforms such as Instagram’s newest feature REEL videos and Tik Tok, allow users to create quick videos using music and pictures or videos while having some good old-fashioned silly fun. Got a favorite place you love to hike? Make a video showcasing its beauty. Great dancer? Join in on all the fun Tik Tok dances, even throw some bloopers in. The main idea is to have fun with it all and to use the space to create something that brings you joy. 

  • It’s okay to unfollow them

Next time you get a chance take a glance at your online friend’s list. Is this a group that leaves you feeling happy, inspired, and motivated? Or are you constantly triggered with envy, comparing yourself to every one of their posts? Sometimes we follow certain accounts because at first, we do love their feed. Over time, however, we may become bored, upset, or unconfident. Unfollow these accounts. Not ready to unfollow quite yet? Mute their posts. 

In the end, the thing that matters most is you and how you feel throughout your day, in real life. Do your best to remember that there are a gazillion filters that people use and that chances are, it took them hundreds of takes to get that perfect shot or video that is full of flawless transitions. Let go of the comparisons and be patient with yourself. 

 

Scrolling through photos and videos on social media, or reading Facebook and Twitter updates can be physically and mentally draining. It’s hard not to compare yourself to the millions of people who post about their seemingly perfect life. Someone is always having more fun or achieving greater success. The constant social media rabbit hole that we can spiral into leaves many people feeling awful about themselves. Studies continue to show how social media can have damaging effects on a person’s mental well-being. There are ways to help you use social media while also taking care of yourself, both mentally and physically. Social media should not make you feel bad about yourself in any way. If you or someone you know is struggling with stress or any other mental illness such as depression or anxiety, call us. Let Achieve Concierge be there to assist you. Call us today at (858) 221-0344. 

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Is Marijuana Addictive?

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Currently, in the United States, marijuana is legal recreationally for persons over the age of 18 in 14 states. At least 34 states have legalized marijuana either for recreational use or medical purposes. As many states continue to pass a bill for the legalization of recreational weed, we can expect these numbers to rise. With many states legalizing marijuana, it’s not surprising that people are left to wonder, is marijuana actually addictive? The short answer is yes. Marijuana can be troublesome for some individuals. Frequent marijuana use has been associated with the development of physiological dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and addiction. 

What Are My Odds?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that roughly one in 10 marijuana users will become addicted. For individuals who begin using before the age of 18, that number rises to one in six. The American Addiction Center listed that about 4 million people struggled with marijuana addiction in 2017 and that over 200,000 received treatment for their addiction in 2015. 

Both the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) both identify marijuana as an addictive drug. The NIDA also adds that frequent marijuana users can develop problematic use, creating a marijuana use disorder. 

What is Marijuana Use Disorder?

Marijuana use disorders are often associated with dependence, meaning that an individual can feel withdrawal symptoms in the absence of that substance. For those that use frequently use marijuana and become dependent on its effects, they can experience the following withdrawal symptoms:

  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Mood and sleep difficulties
  • Decreased appetite
  • Other various forms of physical discomfort

These symptoms have been reported to last up to 2 weeks after quitting and sensitivity to its own endocannabinoid neurotransmitters.” The NIDA reports that marijuana dependence occurs when the brain adapts to large amounts of the substance, and while chemical dependency may not occur as with other substances, marijuana use interfering with a person’s life and an inability to stop using is one of the hallmarks of addiction.  

Signs of Marijuana Addiction

It is important to note that most people who use marijuana do not become addicted to it. Those who do become addicted or become dependent upon marijuana will most likely display the classic behavioral symptoms of addiction. These can include:

  • A need for an increase in usage due to having a higher tolerance
  • Spending more time thinking about using
  • The substance will begin to become a priority
  • Additional money and resources will be used to obtain the substance
  • They will start to displace erratic mood swings when they are running out or when they no longer have access to it
  • They will deny claims from others that the substance use has created negative changes

Marijuana and Legalization

As we see more states passing legalization bills for marijuana, the discussion surrounding marijuana addiction has become more complex. In recent years, there have been numerous studies highlighting the benefits of marijuana use to treat certain medical conditions.

One study reported that medical marijuana can help children with seizures and chemotherapy-induced nausea. A 2017 report listed how medical marijuana was being used to assist adult cancer patients with nausea and other symptoms. Some studies also indicate legalizing marijuana can help the misuse of opioids, alcohol, and other substances. 

On the other end of the spectrum, many people are worried about the damaging effects that come with the use of marijuana, such as its effect on an individual’s heart health, not to mention the damaging effects marijuana has shown on an individual’s brain functioning. 

Legalizing marijuana continues to be a controversial topic nationwide. The medical benefits it continues to show can’t be overlooked. Unfortunately, with the reports of inconsistent potency, and negative symptoms associated with its frequent use, having everybody on the same page when it comes to the legalization of cannabis continues to be a struggle. 

Although many states currently do recognize the benefits of marijuana and have chosen to legalize its use, it is not legal federally. In fact, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) still lists marijuana as a schedule 1 drug. Meaning that drugs within this category have no accepted medical use and have a high potential for abuse. The classification marijuana falls under is why so many people have a difficult time when it comes to who supports the legalization of marijuana. 

Additionally, there are issues with the inconsistent and increased potency surrounding marijuana. Research conducted by the NIDA listed that in 1990, the average THC content in confiscated marijuana samples was just under 4 percent. In 2014, the THC content had risen to 12 percent. 

The controversies, opinions, and disagreements surrounding the legalization of marijuana will continue to ongoing, but what the majority of people can agree on is the decriminalization of it. 

More recent studies have shown that marijuana is not only on the rise but that it is a drug of choice. The medical benefits continue to increase: individuals suffering from depression and PTSD, anxiety, as well as certain eating disorders have also reported gaining benefits from marijuana use. Doctors and patients continue to agree that marijuana use can also help those with cancer-related symptoms. Regardless of the benefits and legalization of marijuana, a person can still become addicted to it. Those who do require a marijuana addiction can receive professional help. If you or someone you know is suffering from a marijuana addiction reach out to Achieve Concierge today. We have trained professionals who are here to help. Call us today at (858) 221-0344.

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5 Things You Should Know About Depression

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Depression is an extremely serious but treatable illness. It has no specific gender, age, or ethnicity that it chooses to overtake – it truly can happen to anyone at any point in their life. Unfortunately, there is a plethora of misinformation, myths, and stigmas that continue to be barriers to those who desperately need help. These negative outlooks act as a barrier to those needing treatment, leaving many that need help alienated and untreated. For some, untreated depression can lead to severe outcomes such as self-harm or suicide. It is important to understand the facts about depression to help those living with it, as it can help to save their life. Here are multiple things everyone should know about depression and depressive disorders. 

There’s Not Always an Exact Reason

 

Sometimes people can become depressed because of a particular reason such as the death of a loved one or maybe they lost their job-but with clinical depression, there is not necessarily a pinpointed reason why someone may feel the way they do. Chemicals in our brain are responsible for how we feel and how we can control our moods. At times, those chemicals become off-balance which causes us to feel completely awful even if everything in our life is going magnificent. 

There Can Be More Than One Contributing Factor

 

You know the old saying “one size fits all”? Well, the opposite stands true for those with depression. There are so many factors that can contribute to a person’s depression including underlying genetic tendencies towards the condition, as well as environmental factors that can act as a trigger. If your family has a history of depression, this can increase a person’s risk of depression which suggests that genetics play a huge role. If you are someone who struggles with a substance use disorder, you will have a higher chance of depression. Additional factors linked to depression include brain chemistry imbalances, hormones, seasonal changes, stress, and trauma. 

 

  • Brain Chemistry Imbalance. Depression has been linked to an imbalance in the neurotransmitters that directly impact mood regulation. This can include dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, glutamate, and gamma-aminobutyric (GABA). The theory is that having too much or too little of these can cause or at least contribute to depression. 
  • Hormones. When a person experiences any flux in the production of hormones such as pregnancy (during or after), menstrual cycle, menopause, or those with thyroid issues, they could experience symptoms of depression.
  • Seasonal Changes. Many people feel waves of sadness and develop depression with the change of season. This is known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and affects about 1-2% of the population. 
  • Stress and Trauma. The loss of a loved one, trauma, abuse or chronic stress – even big life changes can trigger depression. Studies have shown that women who were physically or sexually abused as children, experienced extreme stress responses possibly due to the higher levels of stress hormones adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol.

It’s More Than Being Sad

 

We have all experienced being sad in our life, but depression is an illness that goes deeper than the base feeling of sadness, which is why those struggling, can’t just get over it. Here are some telltale signs that your sadness has turned into depression:

 

  • Dramatic changes in appetite, weight gain, or weight loss
  • Irregular sleep patterns
  • Extreme feelings of anxiety or helplessness
  • Feeling irritable and restless
  • A constant feeling of sadness that can make you feel empty and alone
  • Physical symptoms that can include body aches, stomach cramps, or headaches
  • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
  • Feelings of fatigue
  • Trouble concentrating, experiences with memory loss, and an inability to make decisions

Children Can Be Depressed

 

A common misconception that exists is that all childhoods are filled with joy and happiness. The reality is that some children experience trauma and are consumed with ongoing stress. The stresses that children face are not always those that adults may face, but they can cause serious harm to a child’s overall mood and behavior. Childhood can bring on its own set of stresses that can include bullying, pressures for academic success, and peer acceptance. Examples of behaviors often seen in children with depression can include:

 

  • Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability
  • Refusing to engage in activities they once loved
  • Changes in their sleep and eating patterns
  • Loss of energy
  • Having a hard time paying attention
  • Feeling worthless, or useless
  • Engaging in self-injury and self-destructive behavior

Depression Is an Illness

Depression is a real illness that can affect the strongest person you know. When someone suffers from depression they are not weak nor should they be criticized in any way. Depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States and ranks among the top 3 workplace issues. Current research shows that depression affects an estimated one in 15 adults in any given year. 

 

Feeling sad is a normal emotion that everyone has experienced throughout their lifetime. When someone is depressed it goes beyond being sad. The ability to “snap out of it” is not possible, nor can they just get over it. Depression affects over 18 million adults in any given year and is the primary reason individuals commit suicide. Eliminating misinformation and stigmas surrounding depression is necessary to help those struggling and for them to seek the professional treatment they need. Educating yourself and those around you regarding depression is a great way to help you support your loved ones struggling with any mental health disorder. If you are looking to gain additional knowledge regarding depression, reach out to Achieve Concierge today. We want to help break stigmas and provide for those battling mental health disorders. Reach out to us today to help yourself and others. Call us at (858) 221-0344.

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What is Ketamine Treatment?

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For anyone battling a mental health disorder, it can be challenging to find an effective treatment plan that not only provides you long-lasting relief but doesn’t also come with unwanted side effects. Effective treatment isn’t always traditional antidepressants and therapy. Sometimes these methods don’t work well for all patients. That is why it is crucial for healthcare providers to continue seeking innovative, evidence-based treatment options that are proven to help individuals. 

Ketamine Infusion Therapy 101

 

For several decades, continued research has shown that ketamine included antidepressive properties. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of ketamine for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia as it is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, antagonist.  It induces dissociative anesthesia, providing patients with pain relief, sedation, and amnesia. 

It’s also a medication with fast-acting antidepressant properties that mental health experts have been studying with deep interest for over 20 years.

Ketamine infusion therapy has been incorporated into some treatment plans to help with psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as acute suicidal ideation. It is also being used for post-operative and chronic pain management. It can involve the administration of a single infusion or a series of infusions and is usually administered by IV, which can have effects lasting for anywhere from days to weeks. Although ketamine is not considered a first-line therapy to treat chronic pain or mental health disorders, studies have shown that it can be used off-label to treat patients with severe cases of depression, bipolar, and PTSD who have not responded to more conventional medications or therapies. Because of its fast-acting, lasting relief, ketamine has been labeled the most important breakthrough in the treatment of depression. 

Fast-Acting Relief

 

As mentioned above, ketamine infusions have the advantage of providing patients with quick relief, oftentimes within hours. For those struggling with depression, or those who have not been able to find relief using other therapy methods, ketamine infusions have been able to bring them the relief they have been desperately seeking.

How Does it Work?

 

Researchers are still trying to pinpoint the mechanisms that provide the powerful effects, but they do know that ketamine helps to stimulate a rapid increase in glutamate. Glutamate is the main neurotransmitter that helps to encourage growth in a person’s brain. It strengthens and restores vital neural connections and pathways in regions in the brain that are impaired by depression. These new connections help to promote beneficial changes in brain circuit function. 

Relief for Veterans

 

In addition to helping those with debilitating depression, ketamine has also been shown to help ease the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that many veterans experience. 

According to a recent article published in 2019, 30 US military veterans with PTSD participated in an observational study and underwent six one-hour ketamine infusions. The reason for this study was to discover whether ketamine could be treated to assist those with PTSD. Each participant was given a starting dose of 1mg of body weight that was adjusted afterward based on their experiences. Researchers aimed to create a psychotherapeutic response that would help the patient to experience the optimum transpersonal and transformative experience. Infusions continued to be administered over a two to three-week period of time.

Although not all participants benefited from the study, those who did showed a significant decrease of symptoms at a 50% reduction. Researchers concluded that because ketamine infusion therapy induced a transpersonal dissociative experience, this is a valuable tool to help treat combat-related PTSD. Patients reported that the ability to change their belief system or “reset” their thought patterns allowed them to transform their perspective regarding their traumatic experience. 

High Rate of Success

 

Although ketamine infusion therapy is still being studied, research does show that it has a high rate of success when it comes to treating patients with persistent depression. With an excellent efficacy rate, ketamine infusion therapy has shown to benefit so many people who have not been able to achieve lasting relief through traditional medical solutions. 

How Safe is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?

 

Although recent studies have shown ketamine infusion therapy to be a success for some individuals, mental health experts advise caution when using ketamine as a means of effective therapy. This is due in part because there is not enough information regarding the potentially negative consequences. 

 

If you lined up 10 people with the same mental health disorder, chances are each one of them will disclose to you their own unique and individualized symptoms. Mental health is not a one-size-fits-all, and therefore effective treatment can’t be either. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reported that in 2019, 51.5 million adults in the United States experienced some form of mental illness. Approximately two in three people who suffer from major depression reported achieving lasting symptom remission through traditional forms of medications and therapy; one in three reported finding no relief. It doesn’t matter how small of a stat that may appear, no one should have to live in pain, whether it be psychological or physical. The mental health field continues to seek innovative, and evidence-based treatment for anyone struggling. Reach out to Achieve Concierge to learn more about ketamine infusion therapy. Call us today at  (858) 221-0344.

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Supporting Your LGBTQ Child

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It’s Pride Month! June is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) Pride Month. For so many, it is a time of celebration—people spend the time dressing up and heading to parades or events held in their communities. It’s a time where communities come together to acknowledge the violent struggles and pay homage to the rights and respect that have been won due to hard work and lives lost by LGBTQ people, their families, friends, and allies. It’s when we all mobilize together to work for more justice, less stigma and for a world that does not put a person in danger nor does it prevent them from reaching their full potential because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

There is no doubt that we have come a long way when it comes to acceptance from society. Acceptance of the LGBTQ community continues to grow globally, but there’s always room for improvement. LGBTQ youth remain vulnerable to suicide, homelessness, and other negative outcomes. This is mainly because they lack acceptance from their parents or immediate loved ones. It’s been taught to us over and over again, parents play an extremely important role in the lives of their children. This stands true especially when a child becomes aware of who they are attracted to or whom they love, or if they feel themselves to be a male, female, or somewhere in between. The love and acceptance by those closest to you are critical to the health and success of any youth. Research shows that children whose parents belittle or shame them are more likely to battle depression or attempt suicide than those whose parents are supportive.  

Sometimes we just don’t know how to support our children, especially when it’s something that we know nothing about—that is normal. There are ways that you can help your child, to show them support and to fill their lives with acceptance no matter their sexual orientation or their gender identity. 

Lead With Love

For some, this comes naturally, but that’s not the case for every person. It could be due to long-held beliefs that may get in the way of being able to respond positively and supportively. What is so important to keep in mind at this moment is that as hard as it is for you to learn about your child’s sexual orientation or gender identity, it was probably so much harder for your child to come to you and tell you this information. Sometimes we are left speechless when we are given certain information, and that is okay. In those moments, when the right words seem challenging or unavailable, sometimes a hug can speak a thousand words.

Just Listen

Coming to you was probably one of the hardest things for your child to do. This is a great first step, but don’t pressure your child to talk about everything in that one moment. If you have a sense that they might want to talk, try open-ended questions, such as “what can I do to support you?” that opens the door for continued dialogue while also letting them know you’re here to support them.

Educate Yourself

As parents, we don’t know everything. There are situations where we lack the knowledge and maybe this is that situation. Take the time to educate yourself. Taking the time to learn about gender and sexual diversity is a great step that shows your child that you care. You don’t have to know everything, more than likely your child is still learning and looking for resources (chances are they probably scoured the internet endlessly,) ask your child if there is anything specific they aren’t sure about or that they would like you to learn more about. Learning the language is a great way to lead you and your child into having important and challenging conversations. Mistakes will be made and that’s okay, own it, apologize, and work harder to do better. This is new and it’s okay to be vulnerable and to not always get it right. 

Take Care of Yourself

You are not alone. There are more than eight million self-identified LGBTQ people in America and 8 in 10 people personally know someone who is LGBTQ. Reach out to supportive families and allies to help you as you continue to learn more about the LGBTQ community. When we reach out to those who understand, it can help us process our feelings and validate everything that we are feeling. 

Remember, when learning that your child is LGBTQ,  there is no one way to react. Whether it be happiness, relief, fear, guilt, sadness, or anger, each emotion that you feel is normal. 

This is a journey for both of you. Take time to process and explore your feelings. 

Showing your child or loved one acceptance and love is the most important thing we can do, especially when they share with us that they are LGBTQ. It’s okay to not have all the right answers when your child comes out to you. It’s okay to let them know that you don’t know much or anything about the LGBTQ community. Having an open and honest conversation allows us to be vulnerable while also showing that we are here to learn. June is a glorious month to start celebrating your LGBTQ child. Attend events with them, buy them that rainbow shirt from Target. Be their biggest and loudest advocate. If you’re not comfortable with that, shower them with hugs. This is a journey for both of you and your feelings and questions are valid. If you’re looking for more ways to support your LGBTQ loved ones, reach out to Achieve Concierge today. Call (858) 221-0344. 

The Importance of Destigmatizing Addiction

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For those who are struggling with a substance use disorder or addiction, the obstacles seem almost endless. One of the biggest challenges is the stigmas surrounding addiction. Substance use stigma is one of the main reasons people do not seek professional treatment. Not only does it interfere with a person’s willingness to receive effective treatment, but stigmas also prevent individuals from receiving the support they need and deserve during a difficult time.

What is a Stigma?

 

Stigma is discrimination against an identifiable group of people, place, or nation. Stigmas surrounding substance use disorders (SUD) may include inaccurate or unfounded information regarding the use, treatment, or labeling SUD as a choice rather than a condition.

Many stigmas rise from a lack of understanding or fear. Inaccurate or misleading media representations of addiction contribute to both of these factors. With a quick google search, individuals searching for information can be flooded with information regarding addiction that is false or misconstrued. This is why it is important to use websites from reliable and trustworthy sources. 

A recent study on stigma identified three different types of stigma:

  • Public Stigma – involves the negative or discriminatory views that someone has about addiction
  • Self Stigma – refers to the negative outlook, including the internalized shame one might have about their struggles with SUD and addiction
  • Institutional Stigma – is more systemic. This can include policies of the government and private organizations that limit opportunities for individuals battling a SUD. For example, insurance companies that do not cover the costs of a treatment facility or other related health services interfering with the recovery process. 

What Are The Stigmas Surrounding Addiction?

Most of the stigmas surrounding addiction stem from misinformation or information that is outdated, as well as stereotypes. 

  • Language – The use of specific words such as addict or junkie can sometimes be emotionally harmful to those who are struggling with a SUD. For some individuals, even phrases such as “getting clean” can trigger a person to feel as though their addiction has made them “unclean.” 
  • Assumptions – Society has always treated those with an addiction as a lower class. Some feel as though addiction is a sign of weakness or that anyone with a SUD could never have goals. The reality is no one ever grows up dreaming about fighting a battle with any substance. Those that struggle with addiction are just like anyone else. They have strengths and weaknesses, they are not less than anyone else and they shouldn’t be treated as though they are. 
  • Not Here – Addiction has no discrimination. It can consume the poor and the rich. It has taken the lives of family members, friends, coworkers, neighbors. Those with addictions come from every type of community and background. 
  • It’s a Choice –  No one chooses addiction. They may have chosen to try whatever substance it may have been, but they did not choose addiction. People use drugs for many reasons: they want to feel good, to stop feeling bad, or to forget the pain they are enduring (both psychological and physical. Others choose to use drugs to help them perform better at work or school, or because they are curious and want to fit in. Drugs and alcohol can alter a person’s brain chemistry, directly impacting the pleasure center of the brain, making addiction a disease and not a choice. 

How Can We Change Stigmatizing Behavior?

Destigmatizing substance use is everyone’s responsibility. For it to be successful, we have to all be willing to change our behaviors. When we combat addiction stigma together, we make it easier for those around us to receive the help they desperately need. We encourage kindness and compassion rather than judgment. 

When we chat with those with a SUD, or their family members, make sure to use non-stigmatizing language that is factual and non-judgmental. This is also important when we are conversing with colleagues. The language that you choose to use regarding topics like addiction should always reflect an accurate, science-based understanding of SUD.

Use person-first language. When we use person-first language it helps to maintain the integrity of individuals as human beings, and no matter what, we are human beings before anything else. By making the effort to remove language that equates people to their condition, we help to remind them that they are not their addiction.

The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMH) offers some excellent suggestions to help break stigmas:

  • Share Your Story
  • Educate Yourself and Others
  • Be Conscious of Language
  • Encourage Equality
  • Show Compassion
  • Normalize Treatment
  • Empower Each Other

Stigma, prejudice, and discrimination against individuals with addiction can be unintentional, as well as intentional. Regardless, it can be detrimental to someone you love that struggles with addiction or who is hesitant to seek treatment. People with substance use disorder (SUD) are already marginalized and discriminated against, mostly due to fear, lack of education, and outdated stereotypes. It is our job to continue to work hard to break stigmas across the board. When we continue to fuel stigmas we jeopardize those battling with SUD to receive the professional treatment they need and deserve. Learn how to reshape the way you speak about addiction and recovery – you never know what others around you are secretly battling. At Achieve Concierge we have a dynamic team of clinicians who strive to educate those about addiction, recovery, and mental health. Do not wait any longer, reach out to Achieve Concierge today at  (858) 221-0344.

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How Do I Talk About Suicide With My Child?

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Talking to your child about suicide can feel scary, but it is essential and can be life-saving. Suicide is a public health crisis and occurs throughout the lifespan. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in 2018 suicide claimed the lives of 48,000 and was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34. 

One way we can prevent suicide is to start talking about it. Talk about it with your friends, family, spouses, and children. Many parents are wary about broaching such a serious topic. How do we talk about something so serious with someone who is so young, and still cognitively developing? Some parents feel as though if they talk about it with their children, they are exposing them to something that maybe the child will never know about or that if we talk about suicide, it can lead our children to suicide. After all, it is our responsibility as parents to protect our children from all the darkness. The reality is suicide can affect anyone. It can consume even our children, which is why we need to talk about it with our children. When we talk about suicide we are helping those dealing with thoughts of suicide understand that there is support and that they are not alone.

When Should I Talk to My Child?

 

If your child has been exposed to crisis and is traumatized, you should discuss with your child to give them a basic understanding of what has happened. The sooner we discuss the crisis with our child, the more we can help them to process their emotions and feelings and answer questions they may have. This also helps to eliminate them from obtaining misinformation, either from another person or social media. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents do not address tragedies to children under the age of eight years old unless the child has been exposed to suicide. For children younger than eight years of age, try your best to stick to the basics and encourage questions and feelings, accepting their reaction. 

For children ages 8 to 11, explain to the child that the act was caused by an illness such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Give them detail that they will understand. This is also the time to let them know that these illnesses are treatable, but in some cases, they can become fatal. Again, encourage any questions they have and always validate their feelings. 

Older children usually have been exposed to suicide in some way or form. They may have heard it from other friends, TV shows, or even have known someone that knows some who attempted suicide. The older they are, the more direct you can be. 

What Should I Say?

 

Whenever you decide to discuss suicide with your child, pick a place that is private and safe for your child. This helps them feel comfortable freely speaking about such a sensitive topic. 

Keep it simple. Avoid using words that your child doesn’t understand and avoid details that may be too graphic. 

Encourage questions. If you don’t know the answer, let them know that you don’t know, but that you can both figure it out together. When we are open and honest with our children, it strengthens their trust within us. 

Answer your child’s questions without shame, judgment, or fear. Your feelings are valid, but if you’re angry, maybe it’s not the time to discuss it with your child. The act of suicide is often an attempt to control deep, painful emotions, not because they are selfish or weak. People who attempt or die from suicide are trying to end their suffering.

When speaking with teens, ask them what they already know about suicide. This way you can gather information and dispel any myths they may have heard. 

Teach your child the best ways to help support their friends and themselves if they become suicidal. Always remind them that help is available, give them names and direct resources. Let them know that if they do not feel comfortable talking to you, they can talk to their other parent, aunt, uncle, school counselor – whoever else. Remember to validate their feelings, never telling them that they’re “overreacting.”

Always keep in mind that the best time to speak with your child about suicide is before they are in a crisis. 

 

Suicide affects all people. It is not a brand or label, but a sign that an individual is suffering deeply and needs help. Many falsehoods can prevent individuals from receiving the help they need during these challenging times. The sooner we can discuss with our children the facts of suicide, the closer we are to breaking stigmas and debunking common myths associated with suicide. When this happens, we have a better chance at helping our children process and prevent their suicide. As a society, we should not be scared to speak up about suicide, mental health, or seeking treatment. It is time to work together to normalize talking about sensitive topics such as suicide. There are suicide hotlines, mental health support groups, and online resources available. Reach out to Achieve Medical Concierge today. We want to help you help yourself and your child during this difficult time. Call (858) 221-0344. 

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Let’s Try a Different Therapy

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According to the Closing the Addiction Treatment Gap (CATG) Initiative, there are twenty-three million Americans who are currently struggling with an addiction. Only one in 10 of them receives the proper treatment that they need, leaving a treatment gap of more than 20 million Americans. We can do better—we have to do better. 

With a pandemic still in full force, healthcare and mental health professionals have been working endlessly to find innovative ways to help those battling addiction and mental health issues receive the treatment they need. Entering a 90-day treatment facility is not for everyone, and it isn’t available for everyone, whether it be the cost or other variables. There are other types of treatment that are available for those struggling. An effective treatment that does not involve your stereotypical image of what recovery entails or a form of therapy that doesn’t enclose you in four walls. It’s a form of therapy that promotes personal development, teaching you healthy, functional coping mechanisms while also allowing you to maintain social distance. Have you ever heard of adventure therapy?

What is Adventure Therapy?

 

Adventure therapy is a form of psychotherapy that has actually been around since the 1960s. It combines nature, community, and thrilling exercises for therapy. Adventure therapy has been shown to improve a person’s physical, social, spiritual, and psychological well-being. Spending time in nature has always been a great way for individuals to connect and heal themselves. With evidence-based, experimental therapy, recreational activities, and wild wilderness expeditions, adventure therapy helps individuals find their path to recovery. Addiction is a family disease, and another great thing about adventure therapy is that the whole family can benefit and be involved. In fact, adventure therapy has shown to help families overcome behavioral issues and heal wounds caused by addiction. Adventure therapy is not only highly effective for those with substance abuse problems, but for those struggling with various mental health concerns. 

How Does it Work?

 

With the help of a trained adventure therapist, individuals will learn healthy coping mechanisms using methods that can actively, and naturally stimulate themselves. For example, individuals who have trust issues may be required to engage in activities using outdoor rope courses. If families have a hard time working as a team, you guys might be asked to work as a team as you paddle through raging rapids. Let’s pretend that you are struggling to assert your need to gain independence; your therapist could teach you how to rock climb, an activity where individuals must learn how to depend on themselves to keep that climb progressing. The possibilities and experiences can truly be endless. With a combination of adventure and traditional therapy, Adventure therapy can help promote rehabilitation, growth, and development. Adventure therapists strive to teach each patient mindfulness throughout each activity while aiming to assist patients to connect life experiences with the outdoor activity they are engaging in. 

Through adventure therapy, patients can learn the power of hands-on problem solving, sometimes facing fears, and challenges but in the end, overcoming it all! Some patients have mentioned that during their isolation in nature, they have experienced spiritual awakenings, transforming their self-image, and increasing their self-confidence. Throughout the whole experience, your therapist is rooting for you to become the best version of yourself while helping you meet your goals. 

Benefits of Adventure Therapy

 

Regular physical activity is one of the best things we can do for our physical and mental health. Adventure therapy gets you outside, to not only physically move your body, but to get those neurotransmitters snapping more effectively. It has helped individuals with:

  • Eating disorders
  • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Substance abuse
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Grief
  • Stress

Adventure therapy can also be helpful to

  • Build positive, trustworthy relationships 
  • Acquire functional, encouraging social skills such as communication and conflict resolution
  • Increase resiliency
  • Encourages emotional discovery
  • Improves emotional/behavioral functioning
  • Teaches healthy coping mechanisms, including stress management skills

Finding the Best Treatment

 

Therapy and recovery look different for everyone. It’s okay to try something new—the greatest thing you can do for yourself is to keep trying, to keep fighting for your physical and mental health. If you or someone you love is struggling with their recovery, maybe it’s time to try something outside of the box. When individuals can find enjoyment throughout their recovery, they are more likely to continue living their healthiest life. Take the step to become your best, most adventurous self yet. Many facilities are now offering innovative treatments like adventure therapy. Reach out to a treatment professional today to learn more about adventure therapy.

 

Your path to a healthier you is possible. Sometimes we just do not know where to begin. Other times, we have tried various methods of therapy, but they don’t work well for us. When this happens, it can leave people feeling overwhelmed with negative emotions.  The mental health and recovery field continues to seek innovative ways to help individuals battle their struggles. Whether someone is battling a substance use disorder or a mental illness disorder, many patients have fallen in love with adventure therapy. Sometimes all it takes is to get back into nature, climbing, kayaking, and building functional skills such as conflict resolution. Individuals who have participated in adventure therapy have shown an increase in self-confidence and a decrease in stress, depression, and anxiety. Reach out to Achieve Concierge today. Our staff can help you find resources to teach you more about Adventure therapy. Call Achieve at (858) 221-0344. 

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Self-Love is Tough, But You Deserve It

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We have all heard how important self-love is to achieve great happiness. It’s said that self-love can help decrease stress, mental illness, and help individuals truly live their best lives. Self-love can be defined as a deliberate act that a person can make to provide the care and compassion one needs for themselves. What people imagine self-care to be is usually fueled by slogans such as “treat yourself,” and although most people love a day at the spa, the mall, or even a lavish getaway, self-love means so much more than that.

What is Self-Love?

Taking it to a much deeper level, self-love should include having higher regard for our well-being. This means trusting and loving ourselves, no matter what flaws we feel we have. Self-love means setting boundaries for ourselves to not allow others to hurt or mistreat us. These boundaries are also set for ourselves. Having healthy boundaries helps us remember our self-worth. Allowing a toxic relationship into our lives, whether it be romantically or platonic, is not healthy for our mental well-being. And when our mental well-being is out of whack, we can lose sight of that healthy connection we need with ourselves. When we have a healthy, deeper connection with ourselves, it can help us to connect with others. Self-love can also include taking a timeout to reset ourselves and speaking kindly to ourselves.

Self-love doesn’t come easy for everyone. We can read all the articles and inspirational quotes we want, all suggesting what we should and shouldn’t do, but it isn’t always that easy. If you are someone who already struggles with self-love the most important thing for you to do is to be patient. Sometimes we can’t do it on our own. Maybe you’re an adult with unresolved childhood trauma or a teen who just feels overwhelmed with life. At times, we need to start the healing process which could involve professional care such as psychotherapy. The great thing is though, it’s never too late to start loving yourself and knowing how awesome you are. You deserve genuine happiness, and you are worthy of all the love out there.

It can be challenging to understand why self-love is so important. What’s more challenging though, is living a life where you don’t understand how worthy you truly are. Many studies have shown that self-love and compassion are key elements for mental health and well-being. Self-love has helped individuals with their depression, and anxiety as well as many other challenges that include addiction.

Stop Striving For Perfection

We are human beings, and we’re going to fail and make mistakes. Eliminate the idea of being perfect. No one is perfect. For most people online, it took them 100 takes to get that perfect picture, and chances are, they’re using a filter. Life was not meant to be perfect, it was meant to be lived and when we truly live, we’re experiencing hiccups that help us learn and to grow. “Comparison is a thief of joy.” How many times have you been scrolling through social media to find people bragging about how perfect their life is? Or how perfect you envision their life to be. It’s just a picture, and it could be a beautiful picture, but we don’t know the whole story. That family could have gone through months, or years of therapy to reach that place in life. That woman showing off her perfect body may have suffered through an eating disorder and is finally on the road to recovery. The fact is we don’t know everyone’s story, but chances are it’s not been perfect. Everyone starts somewhere and today could be the day where you start.

Don’t Invalidate Your Triumphs or Your Goals

There is not a one-size-fits-all when it comes to triumphs or goals. We don’t have to have the best, most high-paying job to be deemed successful. Our goals do not have to match others. If it isn’t attainable for you at this time, that’s okay. It’s not meant to be your goal right now. Setting unattainable goals for ourselves is only setting us up for failure, and failure isn’t the greatest feeling. Shape that goal. If losing 100lbs is your goal, start small. Set your first goal to 5lbs, then 10lbs, 12lbs, 15lbs … your journey is yours and each triumph should be celebrated! When we can be grateful for everything that we have and are achieving, we are showing ourselves that we are enough. When we realize our self-worth, we are less likely to compare ourselves to others which can enhance our happiness.

Benefits of Self-Love

  • Increased self-confidence, and self-worth
  • Decrease in negative emotions, and illnesses
  • Enhances relationships
  • Builds trust, and compassion
  • Increase self-respect
  • Stronger resilience
  • Increased motivation
  • Overall better physical and mental well-being

Self-love doesn’t always come easy for everyone, but the importance of it for every single person is crucial. We live in a world where many people strive for perfection or who compare themselves to the lives they see on their television screens. Comparison is a thief of joy and we need to learn how to let it go—for the greater good, including how we, too, think of love. Self-love isn’t just treating yourself to a bubble bath, massage, or that expensive purse. It’s telling yourself and believing that you are worthy. It’s taking the time to rest and to create healthy boundaries. Self-love may be challenging, but the obstacles you’ll encounter to finding self-love will be completely worth it. If you need assistance finding the healthiest version of yourself, let Achieve Concierge help today. We have a team that can help children and adults. Call us today at (858) 221-0344.