Cat Drug Addiction : Be Careful When Crossing “Cat”

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Cat Drug Addiction : Be Careful When Crossing “Cat”

28 May, 2021Articles, News

Recovery is a tailor-made process designed to be most effective to the person in question looking for relief from their addiction. The core of the program of recovery, as far as 12 step facilitation treatment for addiction goes, remains the same. However, the major difference in most 12 step programs is their first step. Though the core of the program is not substance-specific- the way, an individual identifies with some of the concepts revolving around admitting powerlessness over their addiction is. For that reason, there are often specialized approaches that are applied to those who suffer from specific addictions. To clarify this, the example of treatment for “Cat” drug addiction will be discussed further in this article.

Clued Up about Cat

“Cat” is the term used to refer to a substance that is scientifically known as methcathinone; this is a psychostimulant drug with properties and effects on the mind and body consistent with that of both amphetamines and methamphetamines. In general terminology, this drug has similar effects to that of crystal meth, a common street drug- as well as Adderall, which is often prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The effects that someone on Cat experiences is euphoria, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, insomnia, agitation and many more. The physical effects of this drug are minimal when compared to the psychological effects. For that reason, the part of an individual’s being that is the most affected by this substance is their psyche.

Out of Your’ System

Those seeking treatment for “cat” drug addiction often display a wide variety of withdrawal symptoms, some of which seem almost paradoxical to the way they were whilst under the influence of the substance they are taking. They go from being hyperactive, erratic, aggressive and seemingly incapable of behaviour that can be considered as anything other than manic to lethargic, depressed, irritable and socially withdrawn in the initial stages of their treatment.

This is often the key indicator that the substance has begun to exit their bodies; most people withdrawing from “cat” are not given any detox medication unless deemed necessary as the physical withdrawal symptoms from it are very mild. Physical withdrawal from “Cat” often lasts approximately three days as the human body burns through this substance quite quickly.

The crux of cat

Having undergone the physical detoxification process of “cat” abuse, the primary aspect of the treatment process for this substance begins. Due to the excessive amounts of dopamine that “cat” releases into the brain, an individual who is being treated for it seems to think and behave erratically as they begin the psychological withdrawal process from this substance. Individuals in this stage may seem enthusiastic in attitude but also disorganized in thought as well as in the way they communicate. This deceptive charisma can be mistaken for progress if the individual’s behaviour is not thoroughly observed, as that is where the evidence to indicate a problem often lies.

This attitude often blindsides many recovering from “cat” drug addiction—the dangers associated with grandiose, excessiveness as well as a disregard for it. The dopamine in their brain renders them feeling all is right, even when doing wrong. In order to perpetuate an avoidance of negative feedback and emotional discomfort and distress, individuals on “cat” insist on maintaining a permanent state of euphoria, which can render them much more vulnerable to relapse or extreme avoidance to confrontation and challenging feedback. For this reason, getting individuals off “cat” is considerably easier than holding them to the process that will keep them off it. Treatment for any addiction is often long, tedious and challenging.

The Ultimate Come Down

Re-establishing balance is the primary aim of any drug addiction treatment process, and ongoing recovery is designed to help perpetuate this. Those in treatment for this substance often seem to be on the run from this sense of balance brought on by the healing process. They do so by indulging in excessiveness in various forms and in so doing engage in anything that encourages their bodies to continue to produce dopamine in amounts that are aimed at matching that derived from the use of “Cat”.

In order to properly help those receiving treatment for an addiction to “cat”, a specialized approach is required in which the tailoring of the treatment process is ongoing based on a desire to accommodate methods to counteract hyperstimulation. If performed over extended periods of time and with the help of experienced addiction counsellors, it becomes possible to help individuals receiving treatment for an addiction to this substance to recover. This approach places more emphasis on the counsellor’s ability to practice key counselling micro-skills in order to adequately facilitate treatment by counteracting a “cat” addicts inclination towards manic behaviour and actively addressing their psychological addiction to the substance.

If you or a loved one needs assistance with Cat drug addiction – know that help is readily available. The road to recovery is not always an easy one, but getting yourself or your loved one the best possible care from the team at Crossroads Recovery Centre provides you with a map to sober, healthy living. No matter how bad things seem, there is hope, and it’s only a phone call away. If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.

www.crossroadsrecovery.co.za

074 89 51043 JHB

012 450 5033 PTA

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
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Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
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Anxious About Going to a Rehabilitation Centre ?

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Home / Posts tagged "Rehab Gauteng" (Page 3)

Anxious About Going to a Rehabilitation Centre ?

31 March, 2021Articles, News

Entering a rehabilitation centre is a daunting prospect for any person. People are usually unsure what to expect and this uncertainty may cause a lot of anxiety and stress. This blog aims to alleviate some of that stress.

Potential clients are often concerned about what types of people they may encounter in a rehabilitation centre. Addiction and alcoholism do not discriminate, and as such the variety of people you may see in a rehabilitation centre are different and varied. Senior citizens are admitted alongside high school students. Some people may take longer to realise they have a problem, or may take longer to reach a point where they are ready to accept help. One thing to note, Crossroads
Recovery Centre, like many rehabilitation centres, can only admit clients over the age of 18. If you are seeking help for a minor, our team can help refer you to an appropriate rehabilitation centre. Many rehabilitation centres are co-ed, though men usually make up more of the population. Research suggests that men are more likely to develop substance use disorder and that this is the reason for the lopsided population, although there are many socio-economic factors to consider as well as to why more men seek treatment than women. Men and women receive treatment in the same groups and in much the same manner, but most rehabilitation centres do offer therapeutic groups and interventions that are gender-specific, though this does not make up the majority of therapeutic activities.

As mental health care has become more accessible to a wider variety of people within the South African context, the cultural diversity with rehabilitation centres has shifted to represent a spectrum of cultural backgrounds and ethnicities. Addiction does not discriminate, and as such neither do the rehabilitation. In a rehabilitation centre, people from wildly different backgrounds can be seen working alongside each other solving their common problem, the unification under a common cause is truly beautiful to see.

Lastly, we want to address what bring people to treatment centres, we have established that there is a wide range of people in rehabilitation centres, and their reasons for admittance are just as varied. At Crossroads Recovery Centre, we treat alcoholism, drug addiction, food addiction, gambling addiction, sex, and porn addiction. In terms of drugs, many rehabilitation centres will see a spectrum of clients with addictions as diverse as there are drugs. Though there are trends as to which drugs are more widely abused at any given time, there is never just “one type of addict”. Many people have the fear that when they arrive at a rehabilitation centre that they will be alone, that they will be the only person there who is like them. That no one else will understand or be able to empathise with them. This is both correct, and incorrect. No two people in any rehabilitation centre are completely alike, and no two people have zero in common. Though the details may differ there is common ground to be found between all people seeking freedom from addiction. Don’t let the differences intimidate you. Embrace them as an avenue to learn more about yourself and the world around you.

If you or a loved one need rehabilitation from addiction – know that help is readily available. The road to recovery is not always an easy one but getting yourself or your loved one the best care from the team at Crossroads Recovery Centre, provides you with a map to sober, healthy living. No matter how bad things seem, there is hope and it’s just a phone call away. If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.

www.crossroadsrecovery.co.za

074 89 51043 JHB

012 450 5033 PTA

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
Close

Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
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Treatment for Addiction : The Jellinek Curve Explained.

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Home / Posts tagged "Rehab Gauteng" (Page 3)

Treatment for Addiction : The Jellinek Curve Explained.

02 December, 2020Articles, News

The Jellinek Curve remains a useful tool in understanding why treatment for addiction is necessary, and why will power will not be enough to overcome addiction. The Jellinek Curve outlines the progression of the disease of addiction and is useful as a tool to motivate addicts towards a positive and lasting change, as the addict will be able to identify with the different stages of substance abuse.

The curve was originally created to detail the stages of alcohol addiction and recovery. It has however been adapted to represent all forms of addiction.

Once a person has a clearer understanding of how addiction develops and what recovery from addiction means, they can begin to understand why treatment is necessary for recovery and they can then begin to work on relapse prevention as well.

The Curve was created by E.M. Jellinek who was one of the earliest pioneers of the disease model of addiction. His work has helped to change the way that addiction and recovery are viewed today.

Addiction is defined as a disease by most medical associations, including the American Medical Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine.

Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in the individual pathologically pursuing reward and or relief in substance use and other maladaptive behaviours.

THE PHASES OF THE JELLINEK CURVE

The Crucial Phase :

In this phase the individuals’ drug / alcohol use changes from occasional relief using, to more frequent use. The induvial may become dependent. This means that the individual can no longer function normally without the substance.

During this phase the individual displays deterioration in their physical and mental health. This is also where interpersonal relationships start becoming strained as a result of the persons substance abuse. This is also where the substance abuse starts gaining momentum and moves closer to the Chronic Phase as the use becomes more compulsive.

Characteristics of Crucial Phase:

Black outs increase
Decrease in ability to stop drinking/using when others do
Urgency of the first use of substance
Increase in substance tolerance
Persistence of remorse and guilt feelings
Promises and resolutions fail
Family and friends avoided
Loss of ordinary will power
Tremors and early morning use

The Chronic Phase :

In the chronic phase, substance abuse has reached compulsive use levels and complete loss of control over the use or behaviour is evident. In this state the individual is unable to stop or reduce their use despite multiple attempts. This is where self will, will cease to be sufficient to overcome the substance abuse.

Obsessive thoughts, urges and cravings overshadow most the of the individual’s thoughts and other daily functions. This is also where the individual has exhausted every possible reason for their abuse of substances and can no longer justify their use once they have reached this stage of compulsion.

This is also where the individual will start to experience consequences of their substance abuse, such as the negative effects on the body, mind, relationships and also often on their careers. As they feel the effects of these consequences, many turn back to the substance in order to cope, therefore feeding the addiction in a negative loop.

It is at this stage where the addict falls deeper into the addiction and on the Jellinek Curve becomes trapped in the vicious cycle of obsessive drinking or using. The person may also experience withdrawals if they try to stop using on their own.

This is usually where the addict has reached what is known as rock bottom, and the feeling of hopelessness allows them to seek a need for change and thus the opportunity for recovery.

Characteristics of Chronic Phase

Moral deterioration
Onset of lengthy intoxication
Impaired thinking
Obsession with using or drinking
Complete defeat admitted
Unable to initiate action

Rehabilitation Phase :

This is when the individual has reached a stage where there is a sincere desire for help. It is at this critical stage where the addict or alcoholic will learn that addiction is a disease or illness and learn that this way of living can be changed.

This is where the person sees that a life without substance abuse is possible and sobriety can be achieved. With the knowledge of the harm that the addiction has caused themselves and others, the individual is motivated to work towards sobriety.

This happens when a person builds strength and hope and soon overcomes their fears. As they heal from the addiction the physical, mental and spiritual harms have to be addressed. Therapy, medical care, spiritual guidance and other treatment which are offered at addiction treatment facilities and rehabilitation centres is crucial at this time.

Characteristics of Rehabilitation Phase

Honest desire for help
Told addiction can be arrested
Learns addiction is an illness
Stops using substance
Spiritual needs explained
Onset of new hope
Start group therapy
Return of self-esteem
Natural rest and sleep
Increase of emotional control

A noticeable and interesting fact about the Jellinek Curve is that the recovery side does not flatten out on the top which could represent the fact that recovery does not “flatten out” and is filled with endless personal growth.

It is important to note that “…. most individuals do not always have to hit a rock bottom, in order for them to recover. An induvial can seek help, and begin their recovery at any stage of the substance use disorder….”

If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.

www.crossroadsrecovery.co.za

074 89 51043 JHB

012 450 5033 PTA

Resources :

National Institute on Drug Abuse www.drugabuse.gov

Journal of studies on Alcohol and Drugs www.jsad.com

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
Close

Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
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What to Bring to Rehab?

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Home / Posts tagged "Rehab Gauteng" (Page 3)

What to Bring to Rehab?

18 November, 2020Articles, News

Booking into a rehabilitation facility for the first time can be an overwhelming and nerve-wracking endeavour, but it need not be so. Many people are fearful of coming into treatment because they have no idea what to expect or what the admissions process is going to look like. To mitigate some of this anxiety we will talk about what to bring to rehab., how to prepare and what to expect when being admitted to Crossroads Recovery Centre .

You will need clothing for a few days, including some items for both hot and cold weather. There is no need to pack for all 28 days in one go as we do have laundry facilities. Walking shoes will also be needed. There is no need to rush out to buy hiking boots, your normal run-around will do just fine for the daily walk around the block.

You will also need to bring the basics such as a towel and toiletries. Please do not bring anything that contains alcohol or is aerosolised. If you do accidentally pack something that may be harmful to yourself or others, we will arrange that it is kept safe for you until you leave.

You need to remember to bring to rehab, any medication that you are currently taking as prescribed by a doctor.

Please remember to pack a few masks, this is in the interest of your health as well as the health of others.

If you or your loved one is a smoker, it’s a good idea to bring a few boxes. If they vape, a few bottles of juice and a charging cable will be needed.

We know its quite old school, but an MP3 player. Phones cannot be substituted for this unfortunately and we do not allow anything that has a radio function. MP3 players can be loaded up with appropriate music to be used in free time. There is no need to rush out to buy one if you don’t already have one, it is a luxury more than anything else. If you do decide to bring an MP3 player, remember the headphones as well.

A few creature comforts can make all the difference when settling into an unfamiliar environment. Linen and bedding are provided, but sometimes a pillow from home and a familiar blanket do make the facilities feel homelier.

Should you run out of any toiletries or require snacks, we do have a tuck shop facility. Tuck shopping is done once a week of the clients. A list is made, and a staff member will go to Pick n Pay or Spar to get the items. Clients are also more than welcome to bring some tuck in with them when they arrive. Chips, sweets, chocolates and cooldrinks and pretty much anything else that you would like to snack on is appropriate. Keep in mind, nothing should contain alcohol. Diets shakes are also off the menu (unless required for medical reasons).

Please keep in mind, the is limited fridge space and as such perishables should be kept to a minimum. Clients also do not have access to cooking facilities so please do not bring along anything that requires a stovetop or oven.

The tuck shop system works like an account. Items will not be bought for clients who do not have funds in their account. Upon admission cash can be deposited into this account or an EFT can be made. Clients are given a tuck shop balance every other day to keep track of their spending. The person responsible for the clients account is also more than welcome to request a breakdown of spending at any time. The tuck shop account is also used for any non-detox medical expenses. If a client needs to get to a dentist or has the flu this is the account that will be used to pay for it.

Crossroads manages these funds on the client’s behalf and we do not add any additional charges. Transport to and from appointments is also billed to this account.

It is important to note, that any fees left in the tuck shop account upon discharge will be paid back to the person who paid in the fees initially, this is either done via EFT or may be given cash. These funds will not be released to the clients unless the client is the person who paid them in in the first place.

When admission is being processed please bring in identifying documentation, such as a drivers license or ID book, and medical aid cards. We require a copy for the admission paperwork. When it comes to medical aids, pre-authorisation can be done ahead of admission. This is to ensure that funds are available and to confirm the co-payment amount. This process can be done prior to admission, should the client elect to not come into treatment or change their admission date, a pre-authorisation does not influence the available benefits. When arranging admission, speak to the counsellor with whom you are working about this information.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Crossroads is making every effort to keep out facilities and clients safe. As such, a client is required to have a COVID test done before joining the treatment programme. This procedure can be done a number of ways. Firstly, a client can get tested privately and arrive with their negative test results, these must be no older than 72 hours. The other option available is that upon admission a member of Crossroads staff takes the client to be tested while waiting for test results the client will be in our isolation facilities. Test results usually take about 24 hours, so the sooner the test is done, the better.

Crossroads has arrangements in place with doctors to administer tests, please speak to your admissions counsellor for these details.

Booking into a rehabilitation facility is a daunting experience, but it need not be so. Our admissions personnel are able to assist you every step of the way and are always available to answer questions and explain procedures. Give Crossroads a call to discuss taking the necessary steps for admission to treatment.

If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.

www.crossroadsrecovery.co.za

074 89 51043 JHB

012 450 5033 PTA

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
Close

Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
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