What personal items can a client bring?

Clients are allowed to bring the following: 1 machine washable pillow, 1 machine washable blanket, Up to $100 cash ($20 in clients possession), Minimum jewelry (wedding bands), Clothing appropriate to dress code, Shampoo / conditioner, Deodorant, Makeup, Facial cleansing pads, Lightly scented lotion, Feminine hygiene products, Lightly scented body wash / soap (not heavily perfumed ex. Victoria's Secret, Bath and Body, etc.), Reading materials (non-recovery materials must be kept in room), Shower shoes, Plastic water bottles. These items are allowed but must be kept in personal locker: Razor, Tweezers, nail clippers, emery boards, Shaving cream, Beard trimmers, electric razors, Hair dryer, flat iron, and curling iron

What should I bring with me to Heroes' Mile?

Important items to bring: Insurance forms and personal identification, Casual clothing (wash and wear) for three days, Comfortable shoes, Personal care items (incl. toothbrush & toothpaste, shampoo & conditioner), Current medications/medication bottles, No more than one moderately-sized bag of personal effects

Who can refer someone to Heroes' Mile for treatment?

We invite referrals by medical caregivers, case managers, employee assistance programs, family members, community agencies, hospitals, clergy, friends and patients themselves. If you would like further information, call our admissions department at 1-888-VET-NOW2

What percentage of first responders have PTSD?

Prevalence rates of PTSD among first responders have been reported in various studies to range from 6% to 32%. This wide range reflects differences in study populations, assessment methods, and the traumatic events experienced by first responders.

How many first responders have PTSD?

The exact number of first responders with PTSD varies by study and region, but it is recognized that first responders are at a higher risk for PTSD compared to the general population. Studies have reported PTSD prevalence rates ranging from 6% to 32% among first responders, including police, firefighters, and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel.

Are there programs for first responders with PTSD?

Yes, there are programs specifically designed to support first responders with PTSD. One notable example is the “warr;or21” program, which aims to promote resilience among first responders by enhancing their coping skills and psychological flexibility. Additionally, Heroes' Mile offers a dedicated PTSD program tailored to the needs of first responders. This program focuses on providing comprehensive support and evidence-based interventions to address the unique mental health challenges faced by first responders, helping them to cope more effectively with the stresses of their profession and improve their overall well-being.

How can access to mental health services be improved for first responders?

Innovative approaches, such as telehealth care models, can enhance access to mental health services for first responders. These approaches utilize technology to provide convenient and accessible support, regardless of location or schedule.

What are the challenges in PTSD treatment for first responders?

Despite the high prevalence of PTSD among first responders, there remains a scarcity of treatment studies specifically focused on this population. This lack of research presents challenges in effectively addressing the mental health needs of first responders and developing tailored interventions to support their recovery.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the mental health of first responders?

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health challenges among first responders and introduced new stressors. Increased risk of exposure to the virus, coupled with unprecedented circumstances, has heightened anxiety levels and contributed to elevated levels of mental distress.

What are resilience programs, and how do they help first responders?

Resilience programs are designed to enhance coping skills, psychological flexibility, and overall well-being among first responders. These programs equip individuals with the tools to navigate the challenges of their profession more effectively and promote resilience in the face of adversity.

Why are first responders at an elevated risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors?

The nature of their work, which often involves exposure to traumatic events and high levels of stress, contributes to the heightened risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among first responders.

What are the most common mental health issues faced by first responders?

First responders commonly experience depressive symptoms, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse issues.

Is an Eating Disorder a Disability?

Eating disorders, such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder, are recognized as serious mental health conditions. In civilian life, they are often considered disabilities under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), entitling individuals to certain accommodations and protections. In the military, eating disorders are generally not seen as disabilities warranting discharge on their own. However, severe impairments in meeting military standards or performing duties could lead to a medical discharge. Regardless of the context, seeking treatment and support for eating disorders is crucial for overall well-being.

What is a PTSD fracture?

A PTSD fracture isn't a specific type of fracture, but rather refers to the higher likelihood of experiencing a broken bone if you have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. People with PTSD are 1.7 times more likely to have a fracture than those without the condition. Why Does This Happen?: Stress from PTSD can negatively affect bone strength. The disorder also impacts how well our bodies use calcium, a key element for strong bones. Bad Habits: Many people with PTSD smoke, which further weakens bones and raises the risk of fractures. Who is Most at Risk?: Older adults with PTSD, especially those over 60, have a higher risk for certain types of fractures, like those in the spine. What We Don't Know: The studies we have are not perfect and don't account for all variables, such as medication use that might affect bone health. Understanding this increased risk can help healthcare providers take better care of their PTSD patients, both mentally and physically.

What are the symptoms of CPTSD?

Symptoms of CPTSD include those associated with PTSD (such as flashbacks, avoidance, and hyperarousal) along with additional symptoms like emotional dysregulation, persistent negative beliefs about oneself, difficulties in relationships, a preoccupation with the perpetrator, and a sense of hopelessness about finding relief or a resolution.

Is CPTSD a disability?

CPTSD can be considered a disability in some contexts, especially when its symptoms are debilitating and interfere with an individual's ability to function in everyday life. As with PTSD, those affected by CPTSD may be eligible for disability benefits if they can demonstrate that their condition limits their capacity to work.

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a condition that results from enduring complex trauma, typically prolonged, repetitive experiences of entrapment, neglect, or abuse, particularly in childhood. CPTSD encompasses a range of symptoms that extend beyond those of PTSD, including difficulties with emotional regulation, consciousness, and self-perception, as well as interpersonal problems.

What does CPTSD stand for?

CPTSD stands for Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

PTSD is a chronic condition that may not completely go away, but its symptoms can be managed effectively with the right treatment and support. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can help reduce the impact of symptoms and improve quality of life. Some individuals may experience a significant reduction in symptoms over time, while others may need ongoing management strategies.

What are the 17 symptoms of PTSD?

The 17 symptoms of PTSD, categorized into four groups, are: Intrusive memories (flashbacks, nightmares, reliving the event, distress at reminders), avoidance (avoiding thoughts or feelings, avoiding reminders), negative changes in thinking and mood (negative thoughts about oneself or others, hopelessness, memory problems, difficulty maintaining close relationships, feeling detached, lack of interest in activities, difficulty experiencing positive emotions), and changes in physical and emotional reactions (being easily startled, always being on guard, self-destructive behavior, trouble sleeping, trouble concentrating, irritability, angry outbursts, overwhelming guilt or shame).

Is PTSD a disability?

PTSD can be classified as a disability, especially when its symptoms are severe enough to significantly impair an individual's ability to function in daily life. In many countries, including the United States, individuals with PTSD can qualify for disability benefits if they can demonstrate that their condition prevents them from maintaining gainful employment.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by witnessing or experiencing a terrifying event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. PTSD can disrupt daily life and functioning, making it difficult for individuals to cope with their daily responsibilities and social relationships.

What does PTSD stand for?

PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Is CPTSD from childhood trauma?

CPTSD often originates from prolonged, repetitive trauma experienced in childhood, such as abuse, neglect, or living in a war-torn region. Childhood is a formative time, and trauma during this period can deeply affect an individual's development, leading to complex post-traumatic stress disorder in adulthood.

What are the 17 symptoms of complex PTSD?

The 17 symptoms of complex PTSD can include: flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of trauma reminders, negative thoughts about oneself or the world, distorted feelings like guilt or blame, loss of interest in activities, detachment from others, inability to experience positive emotions, irritability, hypervigilance, exaggerated startle response, concentration problems, sleep disturbances, self-destructive behavior, issues with trust and intimacy, persistent sadness or hopelessness, and physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches.

What does a CPTSD episode look like?

A CPTSD episode may manifest as a severe psychological reaction that can mimic an intense PTSD flashback, coupled with feelings of hopelessness, shame, or despair. Individuals may experience a loss of control over their emotions, leading to sudden bouts of anger, sadness, or fear. Dissociation or feeling detached from reality is also common. These episodes can be triggered by reminders of past trauma and may result in a withdrawal from social interactions and a disruption in daily functioning.

How is CPTSD different from PTSD?

Complex PTSD (CPTSD) differs from PTSD primarily in its origins and symptoms. While PTSD typically results from a single traumatic event, CPTSD develops due to prolonged or repeated trauma over months or years, often in situations where the victim is under the control of the perpetrator. CPTSD includes all the symptoms of PTSD along with additional issues such as difficulty with emotional regulation, an altered sense of the perpetrator (which may include a preoccupation with revenge or giving the perpetrator power), and a distorted self-concept.

How common are eating disorders?

Eating disorders are relatively common, though the prevalence can vary depending on the specific disorder and the population being studied. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), in the United States: About 1% of American women suffer from anorexia nervosa in their lifetime. Approximately 1-5% of American women experience bulimia nervosa. Binge-Eating Disorder (BED) is believed to be the most common, affecting 3.5% of women and 2% of men in the U.S.

What is an eating disorder?

Eating disorders are psychiatric conditions. They cause severe and ongoing disruptions in eating behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. These disorders often manifest as an extreme focus on food, body shape, or weight. They can also include a range of extreme eating behaviors and unhealthy ways to manage weight.

Are eating disorders genetic?

Eating disorders are complex conditions influenced by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. While they are not solely determined by genetics, research has indicated that genetic factors can play a significant role. Genetic Predisposition: Studies have found that individuals with a family history of eating disorders are at a higher risk of developing one themselves. Twin Studies: Research on identical twins, who share 100% of their genes, has shown that if one twin has an eating disorder, the other is more likely to develop one compared to fraternal twins, who share about 50% of their genes. Genetic Markers: Some research suggests that specific genetic markers may be associated with a higher risk of developing eating disorders, although no single “eating disorder gene” has been identified. Neurobiological Factors: Certain neurotransmitters, which are influenced by genetics, have been implicated in eating disorders. For example, serotonin imbalances are commonly found in individuals with eating disorders. Temperament: Inherited personality traits such as perfectionism or impulsivity can increase vulnerability to eating disorders. Co-Occurrence: Eating disorders often co-occur with other issues that have a genetic basis, such as anxiety disorders or depression. However, it's crucial to note that genetics are just one piece of the puzzle. Environmental triggers such as societal pressure, family dynamics, and traumatic experiences also play significant roles in the onset and perpetuation of eating disorders.

How do I help someone with an eating disorder?

Supporting someone with an eating disorder is a sensitive and challenging task that often requires a nuanced approach. Ultimately, your goal is to keep yourself or a loved one safe by directing them to a medical professional, but here are some general guidelines that could help: Educate Yourself: Understanding the complexities of eating disorders can prepare you for the emotional and psychological challenges ahead. Open Dialogue: Choose a private and comfortable setting to talk openly and honestly, using “I” statements to express concern rather than accusatory language. Avoid Food and Body Talk: Keep the focus on the person's feelings and well-being rather than their eating habits or appearance. Encourage Professional Help: Suggest they consult with healthcare providers like a doctor, psychologist, or a certified eating disorder specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Offer Emotional Support: Reinforce that you're there for them, but be prepared for possible denial or resistance. Set Boundaries: It's important to protect your own emotional well-being too. Make it clear what you can and can't offer in terms of support. Be Consistent: Your loved one will need ongoing support; recovery is a long process that comes with ups and downs. Involve Other Support Systems: Support groups and family therapy may provide additional layers of support and understanding. Maintain Regular Life: As much as possible, encourage the individual to maintain their friendships, hobbies, and activities. Monitor Your Behavior: Make sure you're not inadvertently contributing to their disorder by making comments on their eating habits or body size. Consult Experts for Your Own Support: Speaking to professionals can help you understand the best ways to offer support while also taking care of yourself. Be Patient and Prepared for Setbacks: Recovery is often a long process filled with setbacks. Be prepared for them and continue offering your support. Remember, while you can be a valuable source of support, you're not a substitute for professional treatment. It's crucial for anyone dealing with an eating disorder to consult qualified medical professionals for diagnosis and treatment.

Do I have an eating disorder?

If you think you may have an eating disorder, it's crucial to consult a qualified medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. However, if you believe you or a loved one may be suffering from eating disorders, and are considering consulting a medical professional, also consider these questions: Am I preoccupied with food, dieting, and body size? Do I engage in secretive eating behaviors? Have I lost or gained a significant amount of weight recently without a medical reason? Do I feel anxious or guilty about eating? Am I avoiding meals or social situations involving food? Do I feel compelled to exercise excessively? Have there been changes in my menstrual cycle (for those applicable)? Am I experiencing physical symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or hair loss? Do I use food to cope with stress or emotional issues? Is my eating pattern affecting my social life, work, or physical health? If you or a loved one identify with several of these questions, it may be a sign that you should seek professional advice.

Can you drink on Adderall?

Having one drink later in the same day as Adderall will not likely cause a problem. However, if you're planning to have a few drinks, they shouldn't be taken around the same time as stimulant medications. This is due to the opposing effects that each drug has on the body.

How long after taking Adderall can I drink alcohol?

Adderall and alcohol should not be taken at the same time. It is advised to wait until a minimum of 4-6 hours after taking regular release Adderall before drinking alcohol. For extended release, more than 8 hours should pass.

Can you take Adderall with alcohol?

Due to the counteractive effects of a stimulant (Adderall) combined with a depressant (alcohol), Adderall and alcohol should not be taken together.

How has COVID affected mental health?

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on people's mental health since the very beginning. In fact, as many as four in 10 American adults experienced mental health concerns during the pandemic, which is an increase from previous statistics on the prevalence of anxiety and depression. Overall, the pandemic has led to an increase in anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, PTSD, and substance use disorders.

How do I cope with stress?

There are many different ways that veterans can cope with stress, including seeing a mental health professional. When stress leads to other mental health concerns such as drinking or using drugs, the best way to cope with these challenges is to seek out treatment centers that specialize in addiction, mental health, and veteran-specific care.

How do I get help with PTSD?

If you are a veteran who is struggling with PTSD, you are not alone—and you are not out of options. Treatment facilities like Heroes' Mile are made by veterans for veterans who are looking for help with COVID PTSD, addiction, and more.

What is fentanyl used for?

Fentanyl belongs to the category of synthetic opioids that are mainly meant to be used in situations of extreme chronic pain. But fentanyl is highly addictive and used illegally throughout the United States because it is so cheap to manufacture. In recent years, fentanyl has been detected in doses of heroin, cocaine, and fake Xanax.

What does fentanyl look like?

In its legal form, fentanyl is usually administered as a shot, dissolvable lozenges, or even as a patch that sticks to skin. On the streets, however, illegally used fentanyl comes in a powdered form that people can mix into virtually anything without it being seen. There is no real way to know if the drugs you buy are laced with fentanyl unless they are tested in a specialized lab setting, which leaves you vulnerable to serious side effects.

What do fake Xanax bars look like?

One of the biggest dangers with fake Xanax bars is that they look nearly identical to the real prescribed medications. Fake Xanax bars are long, white pills with letters and a number pressed into them. However, fake Xanax contains deadlier substances, such as fentanyl, that lead to unintentional deaths related to overdosing.

What does a Xanax bar look like?

Prescription Xanax is a small white pill in the shape of a bar. On the bar, there are lines and letters stamped into it, usually spelling Xanax or sometimes including the dosage with a number pressed into the back of the pill.

Xanax is the name brand of benzodiazepines that doctors prescribe to patients who experience severe anxiety and other mental health crises. Xanax works to spread a feeling of calmness throughout the body's nervous system. As a result, patients will feel less anxious or panicked in certain situations.

What does fentanyl taste like?

Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to identify what fentanyl tastes like. Different types of fentanyl mixed with different things may taste radically different, so a taste test is not an effective way to tell if something contains fentanyl.

What does a fentanyl pill look like?

Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to identify a fentanyl pill. In some cases, the pill may be an unusual color or not have the right numbers on it. However, drug dealers often do their best to make the pills look like the real thing, so oftentimes there is no physical marking of a fentanyl pill.

What does fentanyl powder look like?

When sold as a powder, fentanyl can look varying levels of off-white to light brown. When it is mixed into other powders, fentanyl tends to bring an off-brown color to the mixture.

How is fentanyl taken?

When taken as prescribed, fentanyl usually comes as a shot, a skin patch, or as lozenges. When sold illegally, fentanyl can be sold as a powder, on blotting paper, in eye droppers and nasal sprays, and made into fentanyl pills.

Fentanyl is a synthetic (or lab-made) opioid that is commonly used for treating surgical pain. It is 50-100 times more potent than morphine, and it has substantial addictive properties. As opioid overdose deaths climb, fentanyl is believed to be a large part of the problem, particularly because it can be placed in drugs without people realizing it.

What is addictive behavior?

People who are addicted to drugs or alcohol might act out in ways that they normally wouldn't. Some examples of addictive behavior include lying about or hiding the addiction, engaging in risky situations (such as driving under the influence), and putting the addictive substance before other people. Addictive behavior is often uncontrollable, but it is treatable with the right kind of help.

How is drug addiction a disease?

Diseases are things that stop an organism from being healthy and functioning as normal. Just like any other disease, drug addiction is something that only gets worse as time progresses. Unfortunately, drug addiction often leads to worsening mental health symptoms, physical deterioration, and even death when it goes untreated.

What causes addiction?

There is no one sole cause of addiction to drugs or alcohol. Anybody can develop the symptoms of a substance use disorder, but some people are more prone to addiction than others. A combination of genetics, life experiences, and existence of co-occurring disorders can put people at an even higher risk of struggling with addiction.

Painkiller Addiction: More Opioids for COVID Long Haulers

Table of Contents

For many people with COVID-19, the recovery process was very simple and took only a few weeks. But for others, side effects of COVID-19 persist. Known as COVID long haulers, these individuals can experience symptoms and side effects of COVID-19 long after their body has stopped fighting the virus. And in some contexts, this can increase their risk for painkiller addiction.

This is especially true in veterans, who already face a predisposition toward opioid dependence. As physicians prescribe opioid pain medications to treat long-term COVID-19 effects, veterans who receive these prescriptions will need support to avoid and to treat painkiller addiction. But first, let’s examine COVID long haulers and why they’re using opioid medications and narcotic painkillers to deal with their residual symptoms.

COVID Long Haulers

Known commonly as long COVID or more clinically as “post-acute sequelae of COVID-19,” this condition refers to COVID-19 symptoms that last for weeks, months, or longer after recovering from COVID-19. These can include normal symptoms of COVID-19, like:

Shortness of breath
Coughing
Fatigue
Headaches

However, this can also present with less common COVID-19 symptoms, such as:

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Chest pain
Brain fog
Muscle or joint pain

This issue is fairly common, with more than three million Americans (out of 31 million Americans infected with COVID-19) presenting with long-term COVID-19 effects. Given how common this issue is, many doctors are trying to find ways to help mitigate these negative health effects.

In cases where chronic pain appears as a result of COVID-19, opioid painkillers may be prescribed. In fact, one study found that in 1,000 cases, doctors wrote nine more opioid prescriptions than they normally would have. This is in addition to 22 more prescriptions for benzodiazepines, which are addictive medications that are used to treat anxiety.

While there are legitimate uses for these medications, there is a real concern that COVID long haulers may now face increased risk of painkiller addiction due to their new medications. This fear is bolstered by opioid addiction statistics, which show that more than 20 percent of people who receive opioids for chronic pain misuse their medications. Veterans in particular are at increased risk of developing opioid use disorders due to issues like post-traumatic stress disorder, combat exposure, and military sexual trauma.

For these reasons, veterans taking opioids to treat long-term COVID-19 symptoms should be very wary of painkiller addiction. Let’s examine some of the ways that veterans can stay safe from pain medication addiction.

How to Avoid Opioid Dependence and Painkiller Addiction

When taking prescription opioids for long-term COVID-19 symptoms, there are a few steps that veterans can take to minimize the risk of dependence. These allow veterans to safely use prescription opioids to treat pain while avoiding painkiller addiction issues, so they should be closely followed for as long as an individual takes these medications.

Do Not Take Extra Doses: Often, opioid dependence starts when someone takes more opioids than what they’re prescribed. This makes the body require more opioids to treat pain, which leads to taking more and more opioids. While individuals sometimes find that their medications lose efficacy over time, it’s important to only increase your dosage under the supervision of a medical professional.
Take Opioids Only as Prescribed: The way that people take opioids can greatly impact how they affect the body. For this reason, prescription painkillers should only be taken in the way printed on the pill bottle. So if the directions are to swallow opioids orally, then they should not be chewed, crushed, dissolved, or taken in any other manner without a doctor’s approval.
Talk to Your Provider: If you experience any issues at all with your medications, you should promptly discuss them with your health care provider. Changes in side effects, how you take the medication, and how the medication works for you are all important and should be coordinated with a professional’s guidance. These are highly addictive drugs, so there is no shame in double checking and making sure you’re staying safe while taking them.

Taking these steps is a highly effective way to minimize your risk of developing a painkiller addiction. However, they are not foolproof. Because opioid addiction and dependence are so powerful, addiction is still possible even while taking these steps. For that reason, it’s important to familiarize yourself with veteran opioid addiction treatment options in your area.

Opioid Addiction Treatment Options in DeLand, Florida

When veterans develop addiction, it is often due, at least partially, to underlying factors related to their service. And while some veterans have found success in civilian treatment programs, many veterans find that they work best with other military personnel. That’s why at Heroes’ Mile, our military veteran staff members make all the difference for the people that we help.

By employing addiction treatment programs in an environment that’s filled with veterans in treatment and veterans in the care staff, we allow for open, honest discussions of military issues with people who really understand. Whether it’s initially getting off of opioids in our veteran detox program, or learning addiction coping skills in our veteran rehabilitation program, or transitioning back to regular life in an outpatient program, we’re here for you every step of the way. That’s why we offer free alumni services, so that we can provide ongoing support throughout your recovery.

Would you like to learn more about how we help veterans with painkiller addiction? You can call our friendly and respectful admissions specialists at 888-838-6692 or ask your questions online. If you’re ready to quit opioids and beat painkiller addiction, then we’re a community of veterans that’s ready to help.

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Painkiller Addiction: More Opioids for COVID Long Haulers

COVID Long Haulers

How to Avoid Opioid Dependence and Painkiller Addiction

Opioid Addiction Treatment Options in DeLand, Florida

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