Borderline Personality Disorder: How DBT Can Help with Addiction Treatment

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) has been steadily rising in diagnosis rates, with more than four million Americans estimated to be affected. Those suffering from BPD often experience intense instability in interpersonal relationships and emotions, as well as an increased risk of addiction.

For a successful recovery process, individuals need to gain a proper understanding of the disorder by exploring causative factors that may have triggered it in order to develop an effective treatment plan containing strategies for long-term management.

One such strategy is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which emphasizes skills development aimed at increasing emotional regulation and self-awareness regarding core issues associated with BPD.

In this blog post, we will look into how DBT can help counteract addiction connected with Borderline Personality Disorder.

Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Individuals with BPD may experience a wide range of emotional and behavioral symptoms that can make it difficult for them to regulate their thoughts and feelings. Those diagnosed with BPD often experience:

  • Intense emotions
  • Unstable relationships
  • Impulsivity
  • Disturbed sense of self-intense emotions
  • Self-harm
  • Feelings of emptiness
  • Fear of abandonment

While the causes of BPD are not fully understood, researchers believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors contribute to its development.

Unfortunately, individuals with BPD are also at an increased risk of developing an addiction. In fact, research shows that anywhere between 30 and 60% of individuals with BPD may struggle with addiction at some point in their lives.

Understanding the link between BPD and addiction is essential for developing effective treatment strategies and improving outcomes for people with this challenging condition.

It’s important to seek professional help if you or a loved one suspect that BPD may be present, as effective treatment options are available. Through therapy, medication, and peer support, those with BPD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): What Is It and How Does It Help with Addiction Treatment

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has become a popular treatment method for those struggling with addiction. It is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on teaching individuals new skills and coping strategies to manage intense emotions and regulate their reactions to difficult situations.

Through a combination of individual therapy, skills training groups, and phone coaching, DBT helps individuals develop skills like mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

By incorporating these skills into their everyday lives, individuals can learn to manage their addiction and reduce the risk of relapse. DBT has been found to be effective in treating various mental health conditions, including addiction, and provides individuals with the tools they need to succeed in long-term recovery.

Examples of DBT Techniques That Can Help with BPD and Addiction

One effective type of therapy for managing these conditions is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that teaches individuals practical skills to manage difficult emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and decrease impulsivity.

Some examples of DBT techniques that can help individuals with BPD and addiction include:

  • Mindfulness practices
  • Distress tolerance skills
  • Emotional regulation strategies
  • Interpersonal effectiveness tools

By learning and practicing these techniques within the context of DBT therapy, individuals can gain a greater sense of control over their emotions and behaviors, leading to higher levels of functioning and quality of life.

Additional Resources for People With BPD and Addiction Struggles

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and addiction often go hand in hand, creating a complex and challenging situation for those affected. Fortunately, there are additional resources available that can provide much-needed support and guidance for individuals struggling with these issues.

These resources may include specialized treatment programs, support groups, therapy, and counseling, among others. Seeking help from these resources can be incredibly beneficial, empowering individuals to better manage their symptoms, improve their mental health, and overcome addiction.

Getting help today

We have seen how Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can help treat borderline personality disorder and reduce the risk of addiction. Patients often feel overwhelmed in their daily lives due to this personality type and can find it difficult to seek help.

However, DBT is an effective method for helping patients cope with negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors related to this condition.

If you or someone you know is struggling with borderline personality disorder, contact Robert Alexander Center for Recovery today.

Our professional team of therapists can provide the guidance needed to identify strengths and weaknesses while implementing a personalized treatment plan designed to reduce symptoms associated with a borderline personality disorder.

It’s time to take control of your mental health journey—our exceptional staff awaits you!

Discover the Benefits of Addiction and Mental Health Inpatient Treatment

Discover the Benefits of Addiction and Mental Health Inpatient Treatment

Addiction and mental health are very connected. Some addictive substances only create dependence and tolerance in the brain while others change some of the brain’s structure and functionality. Some of the areas affected in the brain include those associated with decision-making, judgment, memory, and behavior control.

In some instances, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can contribute to addiction. If you’re struggling with a mental health illness, you may be driven to addiction in an attempt at self-medication or drowning out your symptoms.

When an individual is struggling with both addiction and a mental health disorder, it’s termed a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring illness. Research has shown that such cases respond better to long-term addiction treatment as opposed to short-term care.

If you’re looking for addiction treatment for someone with a dual diagnosis, your best bet would be to refer them to inpatient or residential treatment as opposed to outpatient rehab or intensive outpatient care.

Some of the benefits of inpatient care for a patient dealing with addiction and mental health issues include:

A personalized approach to treatment

Discover the Benefits of Addiction and Mental Health Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment allows rehab facilities to provide a more individualized treatment plan. This can start right from the detox stage all through to aftercare. This gives individuals with a dual diagnosis more attention and time to work on their mental health at their own pace.

A structured environment for stability

Dealing with a co-occurring illness often takes its toll and it’s no surprise when you find that your life lacks structure. The scheduled regimen at a residential treatment program can give your life stability which you can then use to reestablish yourself.

No distractions or interference from the outside world

Living at a rehab facility allows you to immerse yourself in your treatment and recovery without distractions. The stressors that affected you in your daily life are gone, leaving you free to recover your mental health and work on rebuilding your life.

More time for long-lasting changes

It can take time to learn and implement new healthier habits in your life and being in a residential program can help with this. Since most of these programs run from a month to a year, you can work on the coping skills and life skills you are learning in the course of your treatment.

Enough time to build a support community

With inpatient treatment, you’ll interact with the same group of people during group therapy and other group activities. This gives you ample time to bond with others who understand what you’re going through. Seeing others experience the guilt, shame, and trauma of addiction can foster a sense of belonging and promote your mental well-being. If you or your loved one is struggling with addiction, contact the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery and we’ll be glad to help you in your recovery journey.

What are the Outcomes of an Addiction Treatment Intervention?

What are the Outcomes of an Addiction Treatment Intervention?

Thanks to some reality TV shows, interventions to help loved ones struggling with addiction have become synonymous with drama as well as emotional confrontations and proclamations. The reality however is an addiction intervention needs to be none of those things if it’s to be successful.

An addiction treatment intervention is a process through which family and friends take steps to persuade a loved one to seek treatment for their addiction. Before getting to this point, those closest to the addict have usually put up with their behavior feeling helpless to help or stop them. Maybe previous attempts at bringing up the addiction have been met with hostility or denial or the individual simply refused to address their habits.

Either way, you and a few family and friends feel it’s time for an intervention. You want your loved one to get the help they need to conquer addiction and feel that hearing this from you will push them to do just that.

Outcomes of an Addiction Treatment Intervention

Before organizing an intervention, you need to know what you expect to achieve. Do you want your loved one to seek treatment? If so, how soon? Keep in mind that the more wiggle room you give them after the intervention, the more reasons and excuses they might find not to go to rehab.

Outcomes of Addiction Treatment Intervention

What outcomes can you expect from an intervention?

  • Family and friends share how their loved one’s addiction has affected them. The main premise of the intervention is to let your loved one know what impact their behavior has had on you as a friend or family. Hearing this from those who are closest to them might be the push needed to finally get them to seek help.
  • Denial, hostility, and anger from the addict. Your loved one might feel ambushed and cornered and may react with anger, evasion, or hostility. This comes from a place of shame and guilt about their addiction. Anticipating this reaction can help you remain calm and non-confrontational throughout the intervention.
  • An agreement from the individual struggling with addiction to seek treatment. The ultimate goal and best outcome of the intervention is to get your loved one to accept to go to rehab.
  • Alternatively, your loved one may refuse to seek treatment, doubling down on their negative reaction. Should this happen, reiterate your support and encouragement and realize you’ve done your best. You can try another intervention at a future time.

Addiction Treatment in Kentucky

At the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery in Kentucky, we understand how important interventions are in getting people to seek treatment. We have worked with families to arrange addiction interventions and through our family therapy program, we’ve helped them rebuild their relationshipsOnce your loved one accepts to go for treatment, we have various programs suited for them from the detoxification program to intensive outpatient care and outpatient rehab treatment. Get in touch with us today and we can help you arrange an intervention or help your loved one beat addiction.

Opioid Detox, Rehab, and Treatment in Kentucky

In this blog post, we will explore some of the options available for those in Kentucky struggling with opioid addiction. Click here to learn.

The opioid crisis is a widespread problem that has affected communities across the United States. While there are many factors contributing to the crisis, one major cause is the over prescription of opioids for pain management.

This has led to a large number of people becoming addicted to these drugs, and when they can no longer get prescriptions, they often turn to illegal substances like heroin. The cycle of addiction is difficult to break, but through detoxification, rehabilitation, and treatment programs, it is possible for people to recover and lead fulfilling lives.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the options available for those struggling with opioid addiction in Kentucky.

Opioid Detoxification Process

Opioid detoxification can be a difficult and taxing process, but with the right support from addiction rehabilitation facilities in Kentucky, individuals suffering from opioid addiction can begin their journey of recovery.

  • The first step in the opioid detoxification process is to discontinue the use of the drug. This can be done gradually or in cold turkey, depending on the severity of the addiction.
  • The second step is to flush the drugs from your system. This can be done by drinking plenty of fluids, sweating, and urinating frequently.
  • The third step is to replenish your body with nutrients. This can be done by eating a healthy diet and taking supplements.
  • The fourth step is to support your body with detoxification aids. This can be done by taking detoxification herbs and supplements, and by getting regular exercise.
  • The fifth step is to cleanse your mind and emotions. This can be done through meditation, journaling, and therapy.
  • The sixth and final step is to maintain your sobriety. This can be done by attending support groups, practicing self-care, and staying away from triggers

Treatment Options for Opioid Addiction

Medication-Assisted Treatment

One of the most effective treatment options for opioid addiction is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). MAT involves the use of medications, such as methadone or buprenorphine, to help people reduce their cravings for opioids and to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Opioid Detox, Rehab, and Treatment in Kentucky

MAT is often combined with behavioral therapy and other support services to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is another effective treatment option for opioid addiction. This type of therapy can help people to identify and change the behaviors that contribute to their addiction. Common types of behavioral therapy used to treat opioid addiction include cognitive-behavioral therapy and contingency management.

Support Groups

Support groups can also be helpful for people struggling with opioid addiction. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment in which people can share their experiences and learn from others who are going through similar challenges. There are many different types of support groups available, including 12-step programs, SMART Recovery, and Narcotics Anonymous.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is another option for people who are struggling with opioid addiction. Inpatient treatment programs provide 24-hour care in a hospital or residential setting. These programs typically last for 28 days or more and include detoxification, individual counseling, group therapy, and other support services.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is another option for people who are struggling with opioid addiction. Outpatient treatment programs allow people to live at home while receiving treatment during the day or evening at an outpatient facility. These programs typically last for 12 weeks or more and include individual counseling, group therapy, and other support services.

Holistic Treatment

Holistic treatment is another option for people who are struggling with opioid addiction. Holistic treatments focus on treating the whole person, rather than just the addiction itself. Holistic treatments may include acupuncture, yoga, meditation, massage, and other alternative therapies

Recovery is Possible – Don’t Give up Hope!

The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery in Kentucky understands that recovery from opioid addiction is not an easy process. However, we strive to provide resources and support to individuals who are dedicated to regaining their health and recovering from this addiction.

We have seen first-hand that recovery is possible and encourages anyone struggling with opioid abuse never to lose hope – no matter how difficult the journey may be. We offer evidence-based detox, rehab, and treatment services to help you or a loved one get back on the path toward a better life.

There is no doubt that the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery has the resources and experience required to lead individuals through their personal journeys of recovery and toward a healthier future free from opioid abuse. Don’t hesitate to contact Robert Alexander Center for Recovery today to confront your opioid addiction issues head-on!