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    How to Spot and Handle Emotional Triggers in Sobriety

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    How to Spot and Handle Emotional Triggers in Sobriety

    Cleaning & Hospitality

    Staying sober “one day at a time” is the goal for people in early recovery, yet it can feel challenging, especially when emotions trigger you. Emotional triggers are things that bring up strong feelings that you would have typically used substances to cope with. When these emotions come up while you’re sober, they can cause cravings to relapse. However, while they can feel intense in the moment, they often pass in a few minutes.

    Recognizing and managing emotional triggers is a foundational skill in creating long-term, holistic recovery.

    Understanding Emotional Triggers

    Emotional triggers are situations, people, or events that can cause intense emotional reactions. Arguing with your spouse or feeling disappointed with the outcome of a job interview are examples of strong emotional triggers. Feelings like anger, sadness, anxiety, or excitement can all be an impetus for relapse if you don’t know how to cope with them.

    Emotional triggers are a normal part of life, and they don’t have to control you. By learning to identify and manage triggers, you can stay strong in your sobriety and build a healthier, happier life.

    Building a Strong Support System

    Having people in your life who support your sobriety can make a big difference. Surround yourself with friends, family, or support groups who understand that you are in recovery and that you might need support as a result of stressors and emotional challenges that you experience. Support networks, like those nurtured at Costa Rica Recovery, offer grounding, empathy, and strength during emotional storms.

    Identifying Emotional Triggers to Protect Your Serenity and Recovery

    As a newly sober person, experiencing emotions without self-medicating may be overwhelming. The intensity of your emotions may make it harder to cope with everyday stress if you don’t learn how to handle these triggers. For some people, they can even lead to a relapse.

    That’s why it’s so important to recognize what sets off your emotions, understand your thinking, and have a plan to deal with them. Many treatment centers will help you learn about your triggers and make dealing with them a part of your relapse prevention plan.

    It may be helpful to keep a journal or use an app to note when triggers occur. If stress at work makes you crave substances, write down the specific situations and emotions leading up to it to discuss with your therapist or support group.

    Respond to Triggers with Mindfulness

    At Costa Rica Recovery, immersive mindfulness training empowers participants to navigate emotions with calm and confidence. Leading them to feel more in control and live a more serene life. Mindfulness training helps you to notice your mood, physical sensations, and thoughts. You can acknowledge the feelings instead of automatically seeking relief. “This, too, shall pass,” is a popular phrase in early recovery

    Here is more detail about mindfulness-related activities that may help in early recovery:

    • Use Grounding Techniques: Try sensory exercises to stay present and avoid emotional spirals. For example, quietly relax your body and tap the center of your forehead as you breathe in and out slowly.
    • Reframe Negative Thoughts: Challenge distorted thinking and replace it with more balanced perspectives. Instead of thinking, “I’m such a failure for relapsing,” reframe it as, “This is a setback, but I can learn from it and move forward.”
    • Engage in Physical Activity: Research show that exercise can reduce stress and improve your moods, helping you handle anxiety and battle depression. When feeling triggered, take a brisk walk. You can also try bicycling, aerobics, or yoga.
    • Practice Self-Compassion: Don’t beat yourself up when you make a mistake! Be gentle, and try to focus on progress rather than perfection. If you experience a setback, remind yourself that healing is a process and that every day is a new opportunity.
    • Use Distraction Techniques: These techniques help you direct attention elsewhere when cravings or emotional distress arise. For example, put some music on a speaker, engage in an activity like painting, or play a video game.

    Cravings and triggers can be distressing, but they don’t last. Learning to manage them helps strengthen your recovery so you can focus on the positive.

    Costa Rica Recovery provides a safe and supportive environment to work through emotional triggers without the risk of relapse.

    It’s a chance to practice new coping tools with guidance from the clinical team. Experiencing that you can face emotional challenges without turning to substances is a powerful confidence builder – and an important step toward lasting empowerment and freedom.

    Taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to handle emotional triggers. When you’re well-rested, eating healthy, and staying active, you’re best equipped to cope with stress. Make self-care a priority in your daily routine.

    Costa Rica is a Great Destination for Alcohol & Drug Treatment

    Costa Rica, with its proximity to the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and its reputation for wellness, is an ideal location for drug treatment.  The “Pura vida” culture is warm to newcomers, the abundant nature and wildlife create a peaceful environment conducive to healing. Costa Rica’s emphasis on mindfulness, simplicity, and connection to nature aligns perfectly with the principles of holistic recovery.

    Costa Rica Recovery has become known for offering world-class addiction treatment at an affordable cost with a renowned locale, comfortable accommodations, and expert care.

    If you’d like to speak with a team member immediately, you can reach us via phone or email. We’re ready to assist you.

  • Group of smiling Costa Rica Recovery clients and staff enjoying an outdoor activity together.

    How the Great Outdoors Can Boost Your Recovery

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    How the Great Outdoors Can Boost Your Recovery

    Cleaning & Hospitality

    Nature plays a special part in the lives of most humans, even if it’s mostly a backdrop to some of our favorite moments. There’s something special about watching the sunset with a loved one or witnessing a shooting star. Addiction can diminish your appreciation for simple pleasures, such as a natural vista. However, when you get sober, your mindset and priorities change. The great outdoors is a vital part of the healing journey, nurturing both spiritual and physical renewal during recovery, leading to longer-term sobriety and holistic healing. It can provide you with a spiritual and literal breath of fresh air.

    Why is Connecting With the Outdoors Therapeutic?

    At Costa Rica Recovery, nature is not just a setting, it’s an active partner in the recovery process, offering therapeutic benefits that the scientific community strongly supports.  Research shows that activities such as exercise in green spaces can decrease stress and help mitigate anger and depression.

    Engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, gardening, or simply spending time in a park, can lower cortisol levels and improve mental well-being. For example, forest bathing, which is the practice of immersing oneself in a forest environment, reduces adrenaline and cortisol levels, the hormones that make your heart beat fast when you’re angry or your anxiety flares.

    Studies have also shown that exposure to natural environments can significantly lower blood pressure and heart rate while boosting immune function, promoting overall physical health. When you’re physically healthy, your body is more capable of regulating its processes. These physiological changes can contribute to a sense of calm and well-being, reducing stress.

    Green spaces encourage physical activity, which is known to release endorphins and boost mood. All of these benefits can help people in recovery achieve a natural, authentic sense of happiness without relying on substances.

    Outdoor Activities for Groups in Recovery

    Forming groups for outdoor activities during recovery can help build community and mutual support. People in recovery have organized hiking groups, meditation circles, or nature walks with others who share similar interests. Local community centers, online recovery forums, or social media platforms are great places to find or create these groups. Group activities, like those integrated into Costa Rica Recovery’s daily wellness programs, foster community and emotional safety in healing environments.

    Outdoor 12-step meetings offer a unique and refreshing alternative to traditional indoor settings, allowing participants to experience the healing benefits of nature while engaging in recovery work. These meetings can take place in parks, gardens, or even along scenic trails, combining the power of fellowship with nature’s calm, reflective ambiance, hallmarks of CRR’s participant-centered outdoor meetings. The relaxed, open atmosphere of outdoor meetings can make sharing personal experiences feel more comfortable and less formal. People sitting around a campfire sharing their feelings and experiences may feel more at ease as they connect with others on their sobriety journey.

    Spending time with others outdoors is natural and doesn’t have to be planned. Jump on a bike and head to a park together, or make a day of it and plan a beachside trip. The sunlight is good for your body and soul, and you may find yourself connecting at a deep level with your companions in a soothing, inspiring environment.

    How to Start Connecting With the Outdoors

    Finding a way to connect with the outdoors can help you reduce stress and begin to appreciate the outdoor world. You may be surprised at how much it lifts your mood and creates a sense of interconnectedness. Here are some things to try:

    • Beach Meditation: Sit on the sand and focus on the rhythm of the waves, practicing deep breathing and mindful awareness.
    • Sunrise or Sunset Walks: Stroll along the shoreline during the quiet moments of dawn or dusk to reflect and find calm.
    • Outdoor Yoga: Practice gentle yoga poses outside. Connect with your body and the soothing breeze.
    • Shell and Rock Collecting: Go on a nature walk – along the beach to collect shells, or through the woods to collect stones. This will give your mind a peaceful, grounding activity.
    • Community Cleanups: Join a community cleanup for a park or beach to connect with others and give back while appreciating the beauty around you.
    • Nature Photography Walks: Take time for a nature stroll near home. Capture the scenery with your camera or phone, noticing small details in your surroundings.
    • Outdoor Group Fitness Classes: Join a yoga, tai chi, or aerobics class held in a park.
    • Trail Running or Jogging: Choose scenic trails that keep you motivated with beautiful views and varied terrain.
    • Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting: Bring binoculars and spend time quietly observing local wildlife, noting how it changes with the seasons.
    • Community Garden Volunteering: Get your hands in the soil while helping tend to flowers or vegetables, fostering a sense of purpose and connection.

    At Costa Rica Recovery, we witness daily how reconnection with nature anchors a fulfilling, substance-free life rooted in serenity and self-awareness. Reconnecting with the natural world can be a powerful tool in building a fulfilling, substance-free life.  Whether through group activities, mindfulness practices, or outdoor 12-step meetings, nature provides a safe and supportive space to heal and grow. 

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    When Does “Problematic” Substance Use Become a Substance Use Disorder?

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    When Does “Problematic” Substance Use Become a Substance Use Disorder?

    Cleaning & Hospitality

    Most people around the world who use substances like alcohol or marijuana don’t have what is considered a problem with these substances. Others begin to exhibit habitual patterns that interfere with daily life and can lead to a substance use disorder (SUD). For loved ones and even the user themselves, it may be hard to recognize the gradual onset of an SUD. What is problematic use, and when does it become a disorder?

    Understanding Substance Misuse

    Before examining problematic use, it’s important to understand why people use substances. Anyone can use drugs or alcohol, but some groups are more likely to use substances. Teenagers and young adults often experiment with substances, especially alcohol and marijuana. Younger people usually experiment out of curiosity or peer pressure. Adults tend to use substances as a way of coping with stress, anxiety, pain, or trauma. They may use alcohol, for example, to “relax” after a stressful day at work. Often, people may use substances to self-medicate in response to symptoms of mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, or depression.

    People from all walks of life use alcohol and drugs. People in marginalized communities may turn to substances to manage economic hardship or discrimination. Genetic predisposition can make some people more susceptible to developing substance use disorders. People in high-stress careers are also more likely to use substances or struggle with their mental health.

    Regardless of the reasons for substance use, addressing it requires understanding, honesty, and compassion.

    Recognizing Problematic Substance Use

    Problematic substance use doesn’t necessarily mean addiction. A person who may be using problematically should undergo an honest assessment of why they are using the substance, as well as the impact it has on their life.  For example, a person who only gets high when they’re upset about something likely needs better coping mechanisms.

    When drugs or alcohol exceed occasional or social use or become a pattern that disrupts daily functioning and well-being, it might be time to seek help to reduce the substance use.

    It’s well-known that substance use can lead to issues like neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home. Problematic drinking or drug use can cause strained relationships, financial troubles, and other issues that make life difficult. Physical and mental health can also decline.

    People struggling with problematic use may continue despite knowing the harm it causes. They may be in denial or early in their addiction. The good news is that you can get help at any stage of problematic use.

    At What Point Does Substance Use Become a Disorder?

    Problematic drug or alcohol use becomes a substance use disorder when it meets specific diagnostic criteria. Typically, a clinician will evaluate factors such as loss of control, compulsive use, and continued use despite negative consequences. SUD is recognized by NIH as a medical condition that affects the brain and behavior. Professional treatment, support, and medication (if needed) are recommended for the treatment of SUD.

    Substance use crosses into disorder territory when it significantly interferes with daily life, responsibilities, and health. The key factor is not just how much or how often substances are used but how that use impacts functioning and well-being.

    If using drugs or alcohol makes you feel bad, yet you do it anyway, it may be time to seek out help through therapy or a treatment program.

    Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

    Substance use disorders are usually diagnosed based on criteria from various books, including the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). There are also other scales and tools available to clinicians. Here is a summary of the aspects of life that professionals use to diagnose SUD:

    • Loss of Control: Difficulty cutting down or controlling substance use, even when trying.
    • Cravings: Strong urges or intense desire to use the substance.
    • Tolerance: Needing more of the drug or drink to achieve the same effect.
    • Withdrawal Symptoms: Physical or psychological symptoms when not using the substance.
    • Shirking Responsibilities: Problems fulfilling obligations at work, school, or home.
    • Social Problems: Relationship issues caused or worsened by substance use.
    • Risky Use: Using substances in physically dangerous situations, such as drinking and driving.
    • Continued Use Despite Harm: Continued substance use despite struggling with physical, psychological, or social problems.
    • Time Spent: A significant amount of time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from substance use.
    • Giving Up Activities: Reducing or giving up friends, hobbies, or work activities due to substance use.

    If you think you may have a substance use disorder, you’re probably right. You know yourself best when you’re being honest with yourself. An addiction recovery professional, however, can clinically diagnose that you are struggling with SUD. This can help you find appropriate treatment and you may be able to use your health insurance to cover some of the expenses.

    Recovery is Available to All

    Substance use disorder does not discriminate by age, gender, culture, or background. While the struggles of addiction can feel isolating, millions of people globally have found recovery. Healing is possible no matter the circumstances.

    Recovery looks different for everyone. Some find support through professional treatment programs, therapy, or medication-assisted treatment, while others rely on peer support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, SMART Recovery, or community-based programs.

    Cultural and spiritual practices also play a role in many people’s recovery journeys, helping them reconnect with themselves and their communities.

    With access to treatment, support groups, and compassionate care, people can rebuild their lives. They can work to make themselves whole again, restore relationships, and regain their sense of purpose, substance-free.

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    The Mental Health Impact of Perfectionism and Workaholism in Recovery

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    The Mental Health Impact of Perfectionism and Workaholism in Recovery

    Cleaning & Hospitality

    Many people who are in recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD) are ready to change for the better the minute they’re sober. However, change can have its own timetable and needs to be pursued one day at a time.

    Having dreams and goals in recovery is crucial. They can help you have hope for the future and find a sense of purpose in life. Some people will take their hopes to the extreme and become perfectionists or workaholics. Both perfectionism and workaholism are common behaviors in recovery. They are both slippery slopes for people in recovery and are striving for serenity and happiness.

    The Dangers of Perfectionism

    The desire to become perfect can quickly become a path to isolation and poor mental health. Perfectionism is related to feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. People with perfectionistic tendencies are more likely to be suicidal or develop eating disorders.

    In recovery, you learn that your life is not perfect, just like everyone else. Yet, you still may expect more of yourself and be hard on yourself when you make a mistake at work or in your relationships.

    If you begin to throw yourself into work, you may use it as an escape and excuse to fall back on old behaviors. Workaholism can be incredibly lonely and isolating. It can also cause you to lose sleep or skip meals. You may put your work above all else, and become addicted to it as an escape, falling into old patterns.

    Perfectionism can lead to impossible standards, which can result in low self-esteem, frustration, and even relapse. It leads to workaholism for many people as well.

     Hare are some reasons perfectionism is dangerous:

    • Increased Stress and Anxiety: Trying to be perfect can make recovery feel overwhelming, leading to stress that can trigger cravings to relapse.
    • Fear of Failure: Perfectionism makes even minor setbacks loom large and makes it harder to bounce back from mistakes.
    • Low Self-Esteem: If someone constantly falls short of their unrealistic standards, they might feel unworthy or hopeless, which fuels negative self-talk.
    • Isolation and Shame: Perfectionism often makes people hide their struggles. If they feel like they’re not “doing enough,” they may feel shame and struggle to admit when they need help.
    • Relapse Risk: All of these feelings can batter a person’s self-esteem and make it more difficult to stay sober. People with a substance use disorder are vulnerable to relapsing, and feeling like a failure can be a trigger.

    When you turn to overworking or perfectionism, addiction can rear its head once more. Being hungry, angry, lonely, or tired (HALT) takes its toll. Perfectionism can lead to all of these things, and so can workaholism. Instead of turning to the computer to work on “one last thing”, take yourself to a support group meeting where you can remember why you’re sober in the first place.

    You belong in sobriety, not chained to a flawed idea of being “perfect” or never-ending work.

    Why Do People in Recovery Become Perfectionists?

    Most people in recovery can look back and see that they lost control of themselves and their lives when using substances. Newly sober, they may decide to closely manage all aspects of their new life. It’s easy to create a new set of rules that are based on unrealistic expectations and lead to negative feelings – after all, we are all our own worst critics.

    The stigma surrounding addiction can create pressure to demonstrate that a person is “better” or ‘normal.” Family, friends, and workplaces may unintentionally hold their sober loved one up as the “perfect success story,” causing them to walk on eggshells or hide their struggles, hoping for acceptance.

    Don’t let yourself revert to ‘all-or-nothing thinking,’ where there are no shades of gray. This mindset is unhealthy but can be overcome.

    The Workaholism Connection

    Perfectionism can lead to workaholism in recovery. Some people may feel pressured to prove their worth through constant productivity. Workaholism becomes a way to escape uncomfortable emotions, much like addiction itself.

    In the medical community, workaholism is called “work addiction” and viewed as a harmful and compulsive behavior. People who are workaholics may put working above everything else, choosing to forgo support group meetings or self-care and rely on work for a self-esteem boost.

    If you see yourself in this article, it’s crucial to get help addressing perfectionistic tendencies as part of a balanced recovery journey.

    How to Break the Cycle of Perfectionism

    Like all behaviors, perfectionism can be harmful if left unchecked. You can learn to live without it and still accomplish many things! Here are some ways to break free:

    • Practice Self-Compassion: Allow for mistakes and acknowledge growth without judging yourself harshly.
    • Set Realistic Goals: Focus on progress, not perfection.
    • Seek Support: Talking openly with counselors, support groups, or peers who understand the journey helps combat feelings of isolation.
    • Mindfulness Techniques: Practices like meditation or journaling can help process emotions without needing everything to be perfect.

    Changing Your Mindset

    Escaping the cycle of workaholism and perfectionism during recovery requires a shift in mindset and a commitment to self-compassion. Start by acknowledging that both behaviors often stem from a desire to regain control or prove worth after addiction. Focus on setting realistic, achievable goals.

    Schedule time not just for work but also for self-care, social connections, and hobbies that make you feel good and focus on your well-being. Reach out to others in your support circle and learn how they cope with feelings of loss or inadequacy. No one has to live their life striving for perfection in recovery.

    Surround yourself with others in recovery—they offer grounding support and honest perspective.

  • Two men playing chess together on an outdoor patio at Costa Rica Recovery.

    Breaking Through the “Man Rules” That Can Hinder Recovery

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    Breaking Through the “Man Rules” That Can Hinder Recovery

    Cleaning & Hospitality

    Many men in recovery have a tough time being open-minded and honest when it comes to their feelings and addiction. Shame is a contributing factor, but there may be more entrenched reasons.

    Most men on this earth have been raised with a set of beliefs that may cause men to suppress their feelings and individuality to fit in. In recovery, however, these ideals can hinder your ability to change and grow.

    Why Are Men So Hung Up on Masculinity Ideals?

    So much of the way we conduct ourselves has to do with social conditioning and cultural expectations. While the world is changing around us rapidly, most cultures still have unspoken rules for men and boys. For many generations, young men were taught that toughness and stoicism are core parts of being “a real man.” These views often keep men from getting help for mental health and substance use disorders. A study in the UK found that almost 40% of men have never spoken to another person about their mental health.

    Hypermasculinity and the Manosphere

    The new hypermasculinity movement—sometimes called the “manosphere” or linked to concepts like “alpha male” culture—has taken off in recent years online. These types of movements create unrealistic physical expectations for men, such as developing large muscles and eating a carnivorous diet to become as tough and “swole” as possible. They are unhealthy, cause isolation, and can even be a source of violent behavior and aggression, which are things that are at odds with healthy feelings and behaviors.

    Why is it so harmful? While hypermasculinity tries to present itself as empowering, it often ends up reinforcing harmful stereotypes that hurt both men and those around them. Young men believe they’re not attractive if they don’t meet impossible physical expectations, and they are also taught that emotions outside of anger are negative and meant to be ignored at all costs. This is a problematic way for anyone to cope with modern life. Emotions are an important part of being human and can help positively guide your behavior.

    What Are Some Common “Man Rules?”

    “Man rules” around emotions and sharing often come from what are considered to be societal expectations about masculinity. Here are some of the common “rules” that guys are often taught.

    • Stay Stoic: Don’t show weakness, pain, or vulnerability. Look strong and in control.
    • Don’t Cry: Crying is seen as a sign of weakness or being “unmanly.”
    • Be Self-Reliant: If you have a problem, fix it yourself. Handle your problems without help.
    • Anger Is Fine, Sadness Is Not: It’s more acceptable to express anger than sadness or fear.
    • Emotions Are for Women: Showing deep emotions (especially love, fear, or sadness) is often considered “feminine.”
    • Don’t Seek Help: Therapy, counseling, or talking about feelings is often stigmatized as a sign of failure.

    The “man rules” can be damaging, leading to bottled-up feelings, mental health struggles, and difficulties forming deeper connections. Thankfully, things are starting to change as more men are encouraged to be open about their feelings and break down these old stereotypes.

    New Man Rules for Recovery and Healthy Living

    The truth is that men can be whoever they choose, and they certainly don’t have to live with a heart of stone to have a fulfilling life. Many men in recovery have found quite the opposite! Regardless of what you are wearing or if you choose to lift weights or make pottery, you’re just as much a man as the next guy. There is a freedom in letting go of stereotypes and beginning to be the man you are meant to be – yourself!

    Discovering this freedom in recovery can be liberating. You don’t have to follow any rules for your gender to be happy. However, if you’re looking for some new man rules that break stereotypes and encourage healthy living in recovery, let’s turn those other rules on their head:

    • True Strength Is Being Real: Being tough doesn’t mean hiding what you’re going through. Speak your truth and let people see the real you. It takes courage to be honest about your feelings.
    • Tears Are Part of Healing: Crying isn’t a weakness; it’s a release. Let your emotions flow when they need to. Allowing yourself to cry means you’re letting go of what’s weighing you down.
    • Lean on Your People: You don’t have to handle everything alone. Asking for support doesn’t make you any less capable, it just means you’re smart enough to know that connection makes you stronger.
    • Feel and Acknowledge Emotions: Sadness, fear, joy, and anger – they’re all part of being human. Don’t limit yourself to just one way of coping. Let yourself feel everything so you can truly heal.
    • Emotions Are Human, Not Gendered: Being open about love, hurt, or fear doesn’t make you less of a man. It shows that you’re confident enough to own your emotions and let them shape you in positive ways.
    • Seeking Help Is a Power Move: Reaching out to a therapist, support group, or a friend is a sign of strength and commitment to growth. Real men know when to ask for a hand to get back on their feet.

    Getting sober is an powerful life decision that can help you become the best man you can be. You’ll find that other men in recovery are redefining what masculinity means for themselves. The only expectations about manhood you need to meet are the ones you set for yourself, and they are not set in stone. Everyone changes in recovery, and there is room for you to evolve.

    The best examples of being a good man are all around you in recovery. If you’re struggling with your self-esteem or self-worth, others have been in your shoes. Speak up and ask for help, and you’re sure to get a lot of great suggestions along the way. Recovery is a day at a time, and so is defining who you want to be. Don’t be afraid to make your own “man rules.” It’s up to you to define who you want to be in recovery.

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    What To Do If Your Loved One Leaves Treatment Early

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    What To Do If Your Loved One Leaves Treatment Early

    Cleaning & Hospitality

    Early addiction recovery is a fragile time in life for a newly sober person, as well as their family. Loved ones feel a sense of hope when a person goes to treatment, but often they’re apprehensive as well. There’s a chance that a term in drug rehab won’t “stick,” and their loved one will relapse or worse.

    For family members, relapse can be incredibly stressful. The stakes were high, and you may feel like you failed to keep your loved one safe and sober. However, addiction isn’t about you. It’s a disease. You’re powerless over your loved one’s actions and addiction. You’re not, however, powerless over what you choose to do next.

    Your well-being matters too. If your loved one has left treatment, there are important things you can do to feel empowered again.

    Take Care of Yourself First

    Research shows caregiver stress can take a heavy toll on your mental and physical health, and this is especially true for someone who is addicted.

    Consider talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or leaning on trusted friends. Keeping yourself healthy puts you in a stronger place to help your loved one. Recovery is a lifelong process for the addicted person, and you’ll want to have support in the long term as well. People who have gone through the same thing can help you with coping methods. Here are a few places to seek support:

    • Al-Anon or Nar-Anon meetings
    • SMART Recovery Family & Friends groups
    • Local support groups at treatment centers
    • Therapists who specialize in addiction in families
    • Online forums, apps, or social media support groups

    People all over the world experience addiction, and each of them has family or friends who want to help. Getting help for yourself will help you understand the disease, your limitations, and the difference between helping and enabling.

    Avoid Panic or Pressure

    It’s tempting to try to lecture, plead, or give ultimatums. But according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), pushing too hard can lead to shame and resistance, making your loved one less likely to seek help later. Try to respond with calm concern instead. It may seem like you’re ignoring the problem, but the intent is to approach it with compassion.

    Relapse is a fact of life in the addiction recovery community. Many people try to get sober multiple times before they’re able to achieve long-term sobriety.

    Why Treatment “Doesn’t Work” Sometimes

    Sometimes, drug treatment doesn’t work out, or the person with a substance use disorder (SUD) just isn’t ready yet. When a loved one quits drug treatment, it’s natural to feel hurt, scared, or even angry.

    It’s upsetting to realize that your loved one may be returning to the dangerous lifestyle they were trying to leave behind. Your feelings, however, have nothing to do with the fact that your loved one has a disease. While they may care about your emotions, the disease does not; it only wants to continue the cycle of addiction.

    They’re still the same person you love, but the disease may be working overtime. It’s important to realize that failing to get sober isn’t a moral lapse, but rather a symptom of the disease. And you can’t fix the disease, but only encourage its treatment.

    Keep the Conversation Open

    If your loved one relapses, it’s their responsibility to seek sobriety again, but you can still offer support.

    Let them know you care about them, no matter what. Use open-ended questions such as, “How are you feeling about things right now?” or “What do you think might help you today?” This gives them room to talk without feeling judged or cornered.

    Even if they’re not ready to return to treatment, staying connected can keep the door open for future change. Offer to take them to 12-step meetings or therapy, but don’t pester them every day.

    Encourage Small Safety Steps

    If your loved one won’t return to treatment now, see if they’ll take harm reduction steps or seek support at a 12-step meeting. Most 12-step meetings are open and do not require you to be sober for a certain time before you attend. (Check for “beginner’s meetings” and “open meetings” on the schedules online for people who are newest to recovery.)

    The Harm Reduction Coalition recommends practical measures like using clean supplies, not using alone, and keeping naloxone (Narcan) nearby to reverse opioid overdoses. Your loved one should also keep emergency contacts handy, such as the local AA hotline, a recovery coach program, and/or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

    Relapse Can Be Part of Recovery

    It’s painful, but relapse or quitting treatment is often part of the long process of recovery. Addiction is a chronic condition, and many people make multiple attempts before they achieve lasting change. This doesn’t mean they’ll never recover. Try to remain hopeful and patient.

    Relapse is a part of many people’s stories. It’s often not the end but another chapter, which can lead to sobriety. But sobriety and recovery cannot be forced, guilted, or coerced. The person to make that decision is always the addicted person.

    Protect Your Boundaries

    Being supportive doesn’t mean accepting harmful behavior. It’s okay to set boundaries to protect yourself or others. This might include limiting contact during active use or refusing to give money. Some family members will tell an addicted loved one that they can only visit if they’re sober at the time. Others will refuse money for groceries but allow their loved one to come to their homes to eat dinner.

    Boundaries aren’t punishment, they’re a way to keep everyone safer.

    Treatment centers can help plant the seed of recovery, but they can’t force it to grow if the person is not ready. Continue to provide love and show willingness to help your loved one get into treatment again. Remember to put yourself and your needs first; your mental and physical health are both precious. You’ll be much better at coping with whatever life throws at you when you’re in a healthy frame of mind. You can’t help others unless you’re able to help yourself.

    Discover an Immersive Option in Costa Rica That May be a Good Fit

    To learn more about how our recovery center in San José, Costa Rica has been helpful in reaching men and women who have left treatment centers near their homes in the United States and Canada, call us at (866) 804-1793.

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    Setting Boundaries to Support Your Sobriety

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    Setting Boundaries to Support Your Sobriety

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    Life in recovery can feel new and exciting, especially in the first few months as your body responds to healthier living. Relationships are being repaired, and there are more possibilities for the future. Healthy relationships can be one of the most rewarding things about getting sober. Additionally, it’s important early on to set boundaries to protect your recovery.

    Clear boundaries are a cornerstone for a supportive environment in sobriety. While family and social support can help with recovery, everyone needs (and deserves) healthy limits that protect both the person in recovery and their support network.

    How Boundaries Reduce Stress and Prevent Relapse


    Boundaries can help define what situations and behaviors are unacceptable for both the person in recovery and their loved ones. A person in recovery will probably want to avoid a party where substances are present. This desire should be communicated to family members, who can find a way to accommodate this preference if they expect the recovering person’s attendance. A family member may refuse to give a recovering person money, but take them shopping for groceries instead. Many family members will need to do their own healing when it comes to codependency, and sometimes outside resources like Codependents Anonymous can help them, too.

    Reducing exposure to relapse triggers, like being around alcohol unsupervised or being given a large sum of cash without expectation, is one important way boundaries protect you. Stress is a well‑documented trigger for relapse. By declining invitations or situations that provoke anxiety or temptation, you can also minimize stress.

    Boundaries help with relapse prevention. A person in recovery can recognize early warning signs and apply coping strategies proactively if their boundaries are in jeopardy.

    Boundaries Protect Emotional Health and Self‑Respect

    Sobriety isn’t just about avoiding substances. It also involves protecting your emotional well‑being, growing and changing as a person. Boundaries help stabilize your relationships without sacrificing your values. You can set them to keep yourself from being triggered or overwhelmed.

    Making respectful “I” statements, such as “I am not comfortable around alcohol,” can help communicate your needs clearly and with self‑respect. Here are some other ways you may want to set your boundaries out loud to other people:

    • “I need you to understand that my sobriety comes first.”
    • “I need you to leave if you bring drugs or alcohol into my home.”
    • “I need you to respect my choice not to drink or use.”
    • “I can’t be around you when you’re drunk.”
    • “I need you to speak to me respectfully, or I will end this conversation.”
    • “I need time for my support group, so I can’t always be available.”
    • “I will hang up or leave if this becomes too stressful for me.”
    • “I need honesty in this relationship, or I will have to step back.”
    • “I will end this relationship if my recovery is not respected.”

    Setting boundaries can seem difficult, but it helps you avoid situations that may escalate to a point where you make rash decisions or are triggered to drink or use drugs. However, it helps others learn how to support your recovery in ways that strengthen your sense of control and dignity. It’s a skill worth learning and using with parents, siblings, children, employers, or anyone you have a relationship with.

    Understanding boundaries and respecting them can create healthier relationships with mutual trust. Once you’ve learned how to set them, you can have a sense of greater control in your relationships.

    Boundaries Help Build a Balanced Recovery Lifestyle

    Supporting your sobriety means focusing on activities and relationships that nurture your well‑being. Staying away from unhealthy or dangerous people, places, or things is a mantra in the recovery community. This is because they often cause to to start a spiral that can end with a relapse.

    Setting boundaries means also enforcing them with yourself. Commit to engaging in recovery‑oriented practices such as therapy, peer support, and healthy hobbies. Be determined to distance yourself from environments or people that may derail progress, such as old stomping grounds or drinking buddies.

    Planning your calendar to include supportive meetings, downtime, and personal growth reflects setting boundaries that invite positive influences into your life. You’re putting yourself and your healthy lifestyle first.

    Boundaries Can Foster Long‑Term Success and Personal Growth

    Establishing and maintaining boundaries is empowering. It also plays a key role in relapse prevention. With boundaries, people in recovery can abstain from unsafe places or people that make them more likely to relapse.

    Over time, setting boundaries becomes a natural part of your life, no longer something you have to overthink or struggle to enforce. You can have relationships with others built on balance, respect, and clear priorities. By protecting your time, energy, and emotional health, you develop habits that support long-term sobriety and personal growth.

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    Treatment for Cocaine Addiction at Costa Rica Recovery​

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    Treatment for Cocaine Addiction at Costa Rica Recovery​

    Cleaning & Hospitality

    When you admit to our residential rehabilitation program, we’ll equip you with the tools you need to banish cocaine from your life for good. Under the caring guidance of your expert recovery team, you’ll work through therapeutic processes and activities that will promote physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual healing.

    Cocaine use disorders have had a devastating impact on countless people. At Costa Rica Recovery, we have developed a comprehensive treatment plan for cocaine (and crack cocaine) addiction, one that encourages healing of the body, mind and spirit simultaneously. Our compassionate addiction physicians have helped many overcome cocaine abuse and embrace wellness, and we can help you or your loved one complete the same amazing transformation. The healing and personal growth you experience while seeking long-term recovery at Costa Rica Recovery will have a profound impact on your future.

    At our unique and uplifting location, we offer a diverse mixture of traditional recovery services, evidence-based healin therapies and mind-body wellness services. Your treatment plan for cocaine or crack dependency will be fully personalized and customized to help you meet all of the health challenges you’re facing, including any underlying mental health issues that are linked to your substance use.

    Your multidimensional recovery program will include:

    • Round-the-clock care. Your healing and recovery plan will include 24-hour medical treatment services that address all of your substance use-related and mental health-related needs, plus any additional health conditions that might complicate your recovery.
    • Individual and group therapy sessions. During spirited and uplifting healing sessions, your therapists will introduce you to the most effective evidence-based therapies for substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. You’ll also learn Relapse Prevention strategies that can help ensure your commitment to sobriety remains unshakable.
    • Holistic healing practices. You’ll have many options to choose from, including mindfulness meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, various fitness activities, and regular nature excursions.
    • Customized nutritious meal plans. For breakfast, lunch and dinner, you’ll be served gourmet-quality food that promotes superb physical and mental health.
    • Daily free time. At the end of each day and during breaks you’ll have a chance to rest and reflect on the progress of your recovery journey.

    Your residential rehabilitation program could last anywhere from 30 to 90 days, depending on the nature of your condition and your long-term wellness goals. You’ll be housed in comfortable and peaceful accommodations as you share life-transforming experiences with other recovering individuals who are on their own personal quest for growth and healing.

    Your recovery from cocaine dependency will take place in one of the most tranquil settings imaginable, nestled among the lush and gorgeous landscapes surrounding San José, Costa Rica, where our facility is located. Here you’ll be able to tune in to the potent healing energies of nature on a regular basis, which will empower you and energize you as you break free from the grip of cocaine addiction.

    You Deserve Your Freedom, and We Can Help You Find It

    At Costa Rica Recovery you’ll enjoy unlimited access to the finest wellness services, in a secure, serene and supportive environment that will prepare you for a life free from substance abuse and all the misery it creates.

    When you come to us for help, we will acknowledge and honor you as a unique individual on a long-term journey of recovery and personal growth. What you experience at our facility will renew your faith in your ability to overcome the most difficult obstacles, in this case with the skilled assistance of compassionate healing professionals who truly care.

    Cocaine and crack cocaine addiction can carry you to the depths of despair. But it is never too late to get your life back on track and to find the peace and happiness you deserve, by choosing wellness over sickness and freedom over dependency.

    We are here to help and support you on your healing journey. Please call us at (866) 804-1793 or send us a message today, so you can get your recovery started right away.

    Cocaine is a powerful stimulant made from cocoa leaves. When inhaled or otherwise ingested in its powdered form, it causes a rapid and significant spike in dopamine levels in the brain. This neurotransmitter is linked to changes in mood, and when it floods the brain after cocaine use it produces a sudden surge of energy along with feelings of extreme euphoria.

    These feelings don’t last for long, which encourages continued cocaine use. But as the brain gradually develops a tolerance for cocaine, the user must take more of it to achieve the same effects. It is this dynamic that creates physical and psychological dependence on the drug, making addiction a logical outcome of continued misuse.

    Beginning in the 1980s, crack cocaine began to turn up on America’s streets. This type of cocaine is processed into small rocks that can be melted and smoked.

    Crack produces a more rapid and intense high than powdered cocaine. But its effects wear off more quickly, possibly in as little as five to 10 minutes. This encourages more frequent consumption, speeding the user’s descent into physical and mental addiction.

    In addition to dependency, regular use of cocaine can also put you at risk for a potentially fatal drug overdose. Frequent cocaine use can also lead to the development of psychosis, which causes frightening delusions, harrowing hallucinations, and extreme paranoia.

    Risk Factors for Cocaine and Crack Addiction

    There are many reasons why casual users may eventually succumb to cocaine or crack cocaine dependency. Some of the major risk factors for addiction include:

    • Family history: Studies suggest that between 60 and 80% of the risk of cocaine abuse can be linked to genetic factors and family history. This is higher than for most drugs, revealing tremendous dangers for cocaine users whose parents or siblings had substance abuse issues.
    • Peer pressure or influence: Many cocaine users first start using the drug after being encouraged to do so by friends, family members or co-workers at social gatherings. Many people have a hard time saying ‘no’ in these circumstances, and if they continue to spend time with other cocaine users the results could be the development of a habitual use
    • Mental health issues: There is a strong connection between mental health problems and drug and alcohol dependency. In a 2022 study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about 40% of those who had a substance use disorder also had a co-occurring mental health disorder. Many who abuse stimulants like cocaine are seeking relief from mental disorders that cause sadness, loss of motivation, and low energy. Research has linked cocaine use disorders with many different mental health conditions, including:
      • Mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder)
      • PTSD
      • Anxiety disorders
      • Complicated grief
      • Personality disorders (especially borderline and antisocial personality disorders)

    Diagnosing a Cocaine or Crack Use Disorder

    The latest edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) lists 11 criteria that are used to diagnose cocaine or crack cocaine addiction. They include:

    1. Consuming more cocaine than intended to on multiple occasions.
    2. The failure of previous efforts to reduce cocaine use.
    3. Experiencing intense and irresistible cravings for cocaine.
    4. Growing tolerance for the drug, accompanied by ever-increasing usage.
    5. Experiencing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when cocaine use is halted.
    6. Increasing amounts of time are spent obtaining and using the drug, or recovering from its aftereffects.
    7. Neglect of home, school or work responsibilities as a result of cocaine intoxication.
    8. Regular use of the drug has continued despite its role in causing relationship problems.
    9. Previous hobbies or other enjoyable activities are abandoned in favor of cocaine use.
    10. Cocaine abuse can be linked to exposure to hazardous situations (i.e, driving while intoxicated or visiting unsafe locations to buy more drugs).
    11. A decline in physical and mental health that has been caused or made worse by cocaine use.

    You’ll be diagnosed with a mild cocaine use disorder if you meet two or three of these criteria, a moderate disorder if you meet four or five, and a severe disorder if you meet six or more.

    Regardless of the severity of your cocaine dependency, our highly trained and compassionate treatment experts can help you overcome it. Our healing regimens are designed to help you find lasting sobriety, and to address all the circumstances that left you vulnerable to the lure of cocaine in the first place. Contact us today so that we can start the process of arranging for treatment, or making a recommendation for a resource that will be helpful for you.

  • Intervention Services in Canada and The United States from Costa Rica Recovery

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    Intervention Services in Canada and The United States from Costa Rica Recovery

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    An intervention is a planned process that family and friends can undertake, often with a professional’s guidance. This could be a doctor, licensed counselor, or an interventionist. It may also include a member of your loved one’s faith community or other important individuals.

    During the intervention, these people gather to confront the loved one, discuss the effects of their addiction, and ask them to accept a treatment plan. An intervention serves to:

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    Affordable Addiction Treatment in Central America at Costa Rica Recovery

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    Affordable Addiction Treatment in Central America at Costa Rica Recovery

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    Do You Need Long-Term Treatment for Addiction?

    It takes hard work and commitment to recover from substance abuse and addiction which is why those who are determined to put their substance use issues behind them often choose long-term treatment programs to help them find enduring sobriety. At Costa Rica Recovery, we specialize in this brand of healing, and we are unique in our ability to offer tremendously effective long-term treatment for addiction at a surprisingly affordable price.

    If you or a loved one need addiction rehabilitation services, but have not been able to get adequate help in the past due to financial considerations, our long-term recovery program might be just what the doctor ordered.

    Most addiction treatment centers offer inpatient or residential rehabilitation programs that last from a week to up to 28 days, but for many people, this length of care is not prolonged or intensive enough to help them overcome their pattern of substance use issues for the long-term.

    For many, longer care is highly preferable. Among this group are people who:

    • Have been abusing drugs and alcohol for many years
    • Suffer from more than one type of addiction, to another substance or to something else (as 58% of respondents did in one study)¹
    • Have co-occurring mental health disorders (this applies to just over 40% of people with substance use disorders)²
    • Lack a supportive family or social network
    • Suffer from physical health conditions that might complicate recovery
    • Have been in and out of rehab in the past, without finding lasting sobriety

    Unfortunately, the cost of most long-term rehabilitation programs can be prohibitive for those who really need it. As a result, they end up enrolling in shorter-term programs, often against the advice of treatment professionals who recommend they spend at least three months in treatment. It follows that rates of relapse after treatment are high for those who attend 28 day (or shorter) treatment programs.

    Thankfully, financial considerations are a less formidable barrier for those who come to Costa Rica Recovery seeking longer addiction rehabilitation services. Our 30, 60 and 90-day residential programs are highly affordable and accessible to people from diverse backgrounds. Our programs are rooted in evidence-based clinical processes, overseen by medical doctors, and we have earned the reputation of creating an extraordinary, life-changing recovery experience for our clients, many of whom have left detailed reviews and testimonials.

    Superior Yet Affordable Recovery Services: The Costa Rican Experience

    In recognition of each client’s unique circumstances, we offer a customized approach to the addiction treatment process. The members of your healing team can craft a multi-layered residential recovery plan that will address all of your physical, psychological and emotional health needs on a round-the-clock basis, in addition to directly responding to the challenges posed by your substance abuse issues.

    Traditional recovery services complemented by powerful holistic wellness practices make for a potent and life-altering combination, which is why Costa Rica Recovery rehab programs include extensive quantities of both. Our comprehensive treatment plans give you the opportunity to enjoy immense physical, mental and spiritual growth during a vital stage of your healing journey.

    You’re undoubtedly wondering, how are we able to do all of this at a substantial discount in comparison to the cost of a normal treatment program at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center located in the United States? Primarily, it is because our facilities are in Costa Rica, where the prices are reasonable and the healing energies are strong.

    Costa Rica is a prime vacation destination, and for good reason. Its diverse landscapes expose hikers and tourists to an enchanting mixture of towering forests, pristine beaches, serene mountain meadows, hidden hot springs, spectacular waterfalls and ancient volcanoes. This is a peaceful and tranquil environment in which to heal and recover from long-term health challenges, including those associated with substance abuse and chemical dependency.

    Despite all its unparalleled beauty and serenity, Costa Rica remains a stunningly affordable destination. This is especially true for travelers who come from the United States and Canada, which offer direct flights to the country’s capital city of San José (where Costa Rica Recovery’s facilities can be found). A further benefit is that nearly 40% of Costa Rican natives speak English, which is one of the highest rates of bilingualism found in Latin America. The percentages are highest in locations that cater to tourists, with San José ranking at the top of this list. 

    Because the cost of living here—and traveling here—is so modest, Costa Rica is an ideal location for an international residential recovery treatment center. At Costa Rica Recovery our primary mission is to provide the highest quality treatment services to the broadest range of people, and we are able to do that not just because of who we are, but where we are.

    The Advantages of Long-Term Treatment for Addiction

    Research has shown that long-term treatment produces more favorable outcomes for people enter rehab for substance use disorders. ³ Those who complete longer recovery programs are able to achieve lasting sobriety at a higher rate, while also enjoying significant improvements in their overall health and wellness.

    This research verifies the value of long-term treatment and rehabilitation for substance use issues. If you enroll in a longer recovery program, you’ll be able to enjoy all the advantages that this type of treatment offers, which include:

    • A multi-layered treatment regimen that thoroughly addresses your specific recovery needs, through detox, therapy, education, holistic healing methodologies, relapse prevention interventions, and coping and life skills training
    • Ample time and space to explore health and wellness in all of its physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects
    • Longer immersion in a tranquil, healing-focused environment dedicated to fostering personal growth and transcendence
    • More time in therapy to identify and understand the triggers that have fueled your past substance abuse
    • A chance to build stronger and more trusting bonds with the treatment professionals on your recovery team
    • Exposure to multiple evidence-based therapies for addiction treatment, each of which can contribute to your recovery
    • A longer time away from the toxic environments that helped enable or promote your substance abuse in the past
    • Additional time to contemplate major life changes (in your work, your relationships, your living situation, etc.), which may be necessary to support and maintain your commitment to long-term sobriety

    We refer to our longest organized residential treatment regimen at Costa Rica Recovery as our 90-Day Transformation Program, and the word ‘transformation’ has been chosen quite intentionally. With this amount of time to dedicate to your recovery, our empathetic and supremely skilled counselors and medical professionals can help you complete an astounding physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual transformation. Your entire outlook on the future will change, leaving you filled with hope and optimism that drugs and alcohol will no longer be in control of your fate.

    Program Types and Length of Stay

    At Costa Rica Recovery, we offer two program types to suit your unique needs: inpatient and outpatient. Our inpatient program provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can fully immerse themselves in the recovery process. Our outpatient program offers flexibility for those who cannot commit to a full-time residential program. Our inpatient program offers flexible lengths of stay, with options for 30, 60, or 90 days of treatment. Our experienced and compassionate team of addiction specialists and therapists will work with you to determine the optimal length of stay based on your individual treatment needs.

    Included in the Cost of Treatment

    We understand that the recovery journey can be challenging, which is why we aim to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for each individual. Our all-inclusive pricing covers a wide range of services and amenities to ensure that you can focus on your recovery without worrying about unexpected costs.

    Included in the cost of treatment are:

    • Intensive group therapy with peers
    • One-on-one counseling with addiction counselors
    • One-on-one counseling with a psychologist
    • Daily gym visits
    • Delicious and nutritious meals and snacks
    • Pick-up at airport
    • Transportation to and from 12-step meetings
    • A guided journey of self-discovery
    • Fun day trips and the freedom to explore Costa Rica as treatment plan goals are met
    • Learn how to have fun again
    • An unforgettable experience!

    Not Included in the Cost of Treatment

    While our all-inclusive pricing covers many of the services and amenities necessary for a successful recovery journey, there are some additional costs that are not included in the cost of treatment. These costs include:

    • Outside medical and dental services
    • Non-standard psychological testing
    • Prescriptions
    • Lab tests
    • Personal hygiene items – shampoo, toothpaste, clothing, etc.
    • Snacks and cigarettes
    • NA/AA literature
    • Transportation for personal needs
    • Cost of optional recreational opportunities
    • Phone calls

    Payment Options

    We accept the following payment methods:

    • Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
    • Bank Wire
    • Bank Transfer

    Please note that payments made by credit card are subject to a 4% processing fee.

    If you have any questions about payment options or need assistance with payment, please contact our admissions team. We’re here to help!

    Finding Permanent Wellness and Sobriety in Paradise

    What we offer is affordable first-class healthcare services provided by compassionate and knowledgeable experts who are among the best at what they do, in a paradise-like environment that will inspire you and leave you imagining a wonderful future free from drugs and alcohol and all the misery they can bring.

    As you continue your healing journey at Costa Rica Recovery, you’ll be able to rest, renew, re-energize and restart your life with your financial security still intact. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that cost will not be an obstacle to your recovery, and that sustainable wellness is now, finally, an attainable goal.

    To learn more about our transformational addiction recovery programs, please call us at (866) 804-1793 or send us a message today. We can answer any questions about treatment and recovery you might have, including those related to cost and financing.

    Disclaimer

    We understand that circumstances may arise that require a client to leave the facility before the completion of their treatment. Please note that the facility does not provide refunds of any monies paid by or on behalf of the client if the client leaves the facility against medical advice, fails to appear, or for major rule violations. However, if the client is transferred for therapeutic or medical reasons, any monies paid by or on behalf of the client will be refunded, less our full per diem rate for each day the client was at our facility.

    Upon admission, the above rules will be reiterated and will require the client’s written consent with the understanding that violations of the facility’s program rules or non-compliance may be grounds for termination of treatment. In such circumstances, no refunds for advance fee payment shall be made.

    To ensure affordable treatment costs for our patients, we do not offer refunds for prepaid fees, including initial treatment deposits. Regardless of the reason for leaving treatment early, including abandonment or violations of house rules, no refunds will be issued. If a patient leaves before completing their paid time period, the unused days can be utilized by the patient if they return to the center within one year of the day they entered treatment, provided that they have not used drugs or alcohol during their absence. If they have used, they will be required to purchase a one-month treatment, and the unused days will be added to that month.

    Scholarship Policy

    Costa Rica Recovery offers both partial scholarships and full scholarships to potential clients. Scholarships are given out on a case-by-case basis for those individuals who need treatment but wouldn’t be able to receive it without a scholarship. Many who need treatment for drug addiction are without financial means to pay for treatment on their own. One of the tragic ironies about prolonged and untreated substance use disorder (SUD) is that it takes over every aspect of life, including financial health. This means those who suffer addiction are often unable to even procure basic resources such as shelter and emergency medical care, much less addiction treatment. Scholarships for treatment at Costa Rica Recovery are given out based on many factors including but not limited to the number of open beds at the facility, the individual’s length of substance and or alcohol abuse, their socioeconomic status, treatment history, and the individual’s willingness. All scholarship clients receive the same standard of care as any other client that would come through Costa Rica Recovery, however terms and conditions may apply.
    All scholarship applications are considered on a case by case basis.

Your New Life Starts Here

Reach out to our admissions team today to learn how our personalized approach can help you or your loved one find the way home.