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Substance abuse recovery is a long and difficult journey. It can be overwhelming and lonely, making it hard for individuals to stay motivated and committed to the recovery process. Loneliness and isolation are common issues that those in recovery face, and they can be detrimental to their progress. In this article, we will discuss effective ways to overcome loneliness and isolation in substance abuse recovery.
Substance abuse recovery is a challenging process that requires a lot of commitment and support. It is common for individuals to feel lonely and isolated during their recovery journey. This article will discuss the negative effects of loneliness and isolation in substance abuse recovery and provide effective strategies to overcome these feelings.
Loneliness and isolation are two different concepts. Loneliness refers to the feeling of being alone, whereas isolation refers to being physically removed from others. Both feelings can be detrimental to one’s mental and physical health, especially during substance abuse recovery.
Loneliness and isolation can cause a range of negative effects on those in substance abuse recovery. Some of the most common effects include:
One of the most effective ways to combat loneliness and isolation in substance abuse recovery is to join a support group. Support groups provide a sense of community and allow individuals to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
Group therapy sessions are another effective way to combat loneliness and isolation. These sessions provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences and learn coping strategies.
Substance abuse can cause individuals to push away their loved ones. However, reconnecting with loved ones can be a powerful way to combat loneliness and isolation. It provides a sense of support and helps individuals feel less alone.
Physical activities such as exercise can also be effective in combating loneliness and isolation. Exercise releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce stress levels. Joining a gym or a fitness class can also provide an opportunity to connect with others.
Volunteering in the community is a great way to combat loneliness and isolation while also giving back. It provides an opportunity to connect with others and make a positive impact in the community.
Pets can be great companions and provide a sense of comfort and support. They can also help individuals feel less lonely and isolated.
If feelings of loneliness and isolation persist, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist can provide support and guidance in developing coping strategies.
Self-care is essential for those in substance abuse recovery. It is important to prioritize self-care activities such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation. This can help individuals feel better physically and mentally and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Loneliness and isolation can be significant obstacles in substance abuse recovery. However, there are effective strategies that can help individuals overcome these feelings. Joining a support group, attending group therapy sessions, reconnecting with loved ones, engaging in physical activities, volunteering in the community, considering getting a pet, seeking professional help, and practicing self-care are all ways to combat loneliness and isolation in substance abuse recovery.
Yes, it is normal to feel lonely during substance abuse recovery. It is a challenging process, and it is common to feel isolated from others.
Yes, pets can provide companionship and comfort, which can help individuals feel less lonely and isolated.
If you are feeling overwhelmed during recovery, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist can provide support and guidance in developing coping strategies.
Yes, volunteering can provide an opportunity to connect with others and make a positive impact in the community, which can help combat loneliness and isolation.
Self-care is important in substance abuse recovery because it helps individuals feel better physically and mentally, which can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and improve overall well-being.
If you or a loved one in Lake Forest, CA is struggling with substance abuse, contact OC Revive for support and guidance on the road to recovery. Our team of professionals is dedicated to helping individuals overcome the challenges of substance abuse and achieve long-term success. Call us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you overcome loneliness and isolation during the recovery process.
I began my journey to recovery back in 2011 when i moved to California from New York.Along with my recovery and beginning a new way of life, I began to develop a heart for others struggling with sobriety.My journey to California was filled with many trials and lessons learned, but most of all, personal growth. I truly believe I would not have found success if I didn’t come to California.
I first opened an adult treatment center, California Prime Recovery(CPR) as a way to work with those struggling on a daily basis. Over the last 3 years, CPR has evolved into someting much more impactful and beautiful than i could’ve ever imagined. I have come to realize that my own happiness and growth depends on being involved in the lives of others in recovery. Helping people through recovery is a cornerstone of many 12 step programs, and it has become the most important aspect of personal life. Giving back to those still suffering is the only way not to lose what you have gained.
Throughout this journey, and by mentoring many adolescents, I realized i wanted to offer more to teens who were struggling just as i was. This is when i decided to start OC Revive. I had built many wonderful relationships throughout my professional journey and found two others who shared the same vision, and passion that i had for the youth. It didn’t take long for myself, Tyler Michaelis, and Derek Walsh to turn our dream into a reality. We are committed to providing the best possible treatment for adolescents and truly believe “their future is our collective responsibility”.
As Co-Founder & COO of OC Revive, Derek has a wealth of personal and professional experience dealing with the issues faced by today’s troubled teen. Throughout High School and College, Derek struggled with peer pressure, learning challenges, and substance abuse. Working with the support of family and friends, Derek set out to conquer those obstacles and find a richer, more fulfilling life.
On 15 October 2012, Derek overcame his own substance abuse problem and dedicated himself to help others work through their own addiction. A year later, Derek began a new journey and started his career in the recovery industry. Throughout his career, Derek has worked his way through numerous roles at top-rated treatment centers. While working at those treatment centers, Derek began to see a pattern that those struggling individuals would’ve benefited immensely from receiving earlier in life.
Derek decided that he wanted to be a part of the solution, and find a way to address those issues at an earlier age. He concluded that there needed to be interventions before adulthood, and he didn’t want to see anyone going through the same cycle that he did. That was when he and Tyler Michaelis decided to start OC Revive, to make sure teens get the help they need to find a purpose that leads them to a life of happiness and success.
Derek attended college at Orange Coast College and Santa Barbara City College.
Brittany joins the OCR team with over 15 years of experience in the Mental Health adn Substance Abuse field. Brittany has been licensed for almost 8 years and has worked in various settings throughout her career, including inpatient psychiatric treatment, outpatient, residential treatment center, PHP and IOP settings. Brittany has been supervising Associate Marrige and Family Therapists and Associate Social Workers for almost 6 years and works in compiance and auditing to ensure that treatment centers are up to par with biling regulations. Brittany has worked with young adults and adolescents for most of her career.
Brittany earned her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at California Baptist International University. Brittany enjoys working with adolescents and young adults and believes that ever single person has the ability to set goals and meet them, even when they can’t see it themselves. Brittany loves spending time with her family, traveling, good coffee, and being outdoors.
Patrick is amental health and addiction professional that has a passion for recovery and helping others. He was inspired and encouraged by his mentors to work with individuals and families that have been affected by mental health issues, alcohol and drug addiction. He ahs been working in the field of addiction recovery for 19+ years and is an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor through the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals. Patrick is also certified in Adult and Adolescent Anger Management. His Career in addiction treatment began in 2001 at the Betty Ford Center i Rancho Mirage CA. as an Addiction Specialist working on the inpatient campus and is the co-creator of Betty Ford Center’s “Young Adult Track” specializing in work with 18-25 year old Patients. he also excelled in working with addicted and impaired professionals in the “Replase and Recovery Program”.
Patrick transitioned to Orange County in 2011 where he accepted a position as the Program Director for Orange County Recovery Services. Patrick is a gifted lecturer, group facilitator and counselor with a pssion for reocery that has been an active recovery member for over 25 years.
Anthony is an Orange County local and has been a great addition to the Oc Revive team. Since 2015, Anthony has been working in the substance abuse field and has also pursued his drug and alcohol counseling license. Since being with Revive Anthony has established a relationship within the School Districts and serves as a voluntary speaker for substance abuse awareness in the community. By sharing his personal testimony, he has excelled in gaining trust and building rapport with others. He always seems to have a smile on his face and brings a positive vibe wherever he goes. With that being said, Anthony is very passionate about the work that he does and goes above and beyond to provide our struggling youth the care that they so desperately need.
Tyler is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to teens and their families. Once a teenager that struggled with addiction, mental health, and poor choices, Tyler is aware of the growing demand and need for early intervention in adolescents and young adults. Growing up in Orange County, he battled addiction and peer pressure all throughout high school and during his time at Saddleback College. During those troubled years, Tyler’s parents and family were emotionally drained and heavily impacted by his addiction. Unfortunately, they did not know where to turn for help nor did they have the courage to set boundaries with him.After 7 painful years, they finally forced Tyler out of the house and into treatment at the age of 23.
April 5th, 2010 is a date that Tyler and his family hold dear. On that date, Tyler enrolled in a 4-month treatment program which laid the foundation for his recovery. With the help of treatment professionals, supportive friends and family, Tyler was able to build a better version of himself. This started with slowly building his self-esteem, and growing a community of peers to support him throughout recovery.
In 2011,with the desire to help others struggling with addiction, he decided to start working in the addiction field. Tyler obtained his CADAC || Counselor certification and graduated from Cal Sate University of Long Beach with a degree in Health Care Administration. Since then, Tyler has worked all areas of treatment starting as a detox technician and working his way up to Program Director. Today, Tyler feels blessed and grateful for getting a second chanse at life. He has a great relationship with his family, is happily married and has a great group of friends. Once a lost teen, Tyler now has purpose and passion. He’s dedicated his life’s work to helping teens and their families. As the Founder, Tyler Michaelis is confident that OC Revive will renew the lives of struggling teens while bringing back hope to their families
Tyler is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to teens and their families. Once a teenager that struggled with addiction, mental health, and poor choices, Tyler is aware of the growing demand and need for early intervention in adolescents and young adults. Growing up in Orange County, he battled addiction and peer pressure all throughout high school and during his time at Saddleback College. During those troubled years, Tyler’s parents and family were emotionally drained and heavily impacted by his addiction. Unfortunately, they did not know where to turn for help nor did they have the courage to set boundaries with him.After 7 painful years, they finally forced Tyler out of the house and into treatment at the age of 23.
April 5th, 2010 is a date that Tyler and his family hold dear. On that date, Tyler enrolled in a 4-month treatment program which laid the foundation for his recovery. With the help of treatment professionals, supportive friends and family, Tyler was able to build a better version of himself. This started with slowly building his self-esteem, and growing a community of peers to support him throughout recovery.
In 2011,with the desire to help others struggling with addiction, he decided to start working in the addiction field. Tyler obtained his CADAC || Counselor certification and graduated from Cal Sate University of Long Beach with a degree in Health Care Administration. Since then, Tyler has worked all areas of treatment starting as a detox technician and working his way up to Program Director. Today, Tyler feels blessed and grateful for getting a second chanse at life. He has a great relationship with his family, is happily married and has a great group of friends. Once a lost teen, Tyler now has purpose and passion. He’s dedicated his life’s work to helping teens and their families. As the Founder, Tyler Michaelis is confident that OC Revive will renew the lives of struggling teens while bringing back hope to their families
