Inpatient Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders
At Castle Craig, we stand ready to help people facing the complex interplay of an eating disorder and drug or alcohol addiction. As a family-run centre with over 35 years of experience, our expertise lies in providing integrated care for dual challenges. We understand the profound impact co-occurring eating disorders and substance misuse can have on your life.
We offer dedicated support, carefully structured to address the specific complexities of combined conditions. Your admission for addiction alongside an eating disorder depends on a careful assessment by our clinical professionals. We can consider people with stabilised eating disorders for residential treatment on a case-by-case basis. However, those facing severe illness may require initial hospital care for their eating disorder before joining our residential addiction treatment. We aim to provide the most appropriate, effective support for you or your loved one.
If you are exploring comprehensive residential treatment for your addiction, call us on 01721 546 263 today to speak to one of our team members. If you want to learn more about the relationship between eating disorders and substance misuse, or their impact on recovery, please read on for more guidance.
What is an Eating Disorder?
Eating disorders feature a persistent disturbance in eating or eating-related behaviour. This results in altered food consumption or absorption, significantly impairing a person’s physical health and social well-being. Understanding these conditions helps identify the need for support and timely intervention.
In recent years, the understanding and classification of eating disorders have evolved significantly. This article will explore definitions, symptoms and treatment options for various eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. We aim to help you recognise signs and learn about diagnosis and treatment avenues for addiction and eating disorders.
What are Co-Occurring Addiction and Eating Disorders?
Co-occurring addiction and eating disorders mean a person lives with both conditions at the same time. This dual diagnosis often involves a complex interplay, where the symptoms of one condition can worsen the other. For example, drug or alcohol misuse might be used to cope with difficult emotions arising from an eating disorder.
Understanding this intricate connection is vital for effective drug or alcohol addiction treatment. Attempting to address only one condition can lead to relapse in the other. Comprehensive care for substance misuse, therefore, requires an integrated approach, accommodating the eating disorder within the addiction treatment framework to support overall recovery and long-term well-being.
Rehab for Substance Addiction and Eating Disorders
What is an Eating Disorder and Addiction Rehab Centre?
An eating disorder and addiction rehab centre is a specialised place for people living with both conditions. This type of residential treatment works to address the link between disordered eating and substance misuse. The aim is to provide a setting where people can tackle both issues at once for effective recovery.
Our team at Castle Craig gives compassionate mental health support for co-occurring eating disorders during a person’s stay with us. We accept patients on a case-by-case basis, but if an individual is severely physically unwell due to an eating disorder, they may need dedicated medical help at a hospital first. This is to keep you safe and allow you to become ready to undertake addiction treatment in rehab.
Understanding Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex conditions that extend far beyond the realm of food. Their occurrence continues to rise, affecting a significant number of people. Understanding the intricate interplay of psychological and biological factors behind these challenges is highly beneficial for effective support and healing. This section explores these vital aspects.
The Psychological Aspect
Eating disorders are not merely about food; they are profoundly rooted in psychological issues. This often includes a distorted perception of one’s body image. People struggling with eating disorders frequently experience an internal battle, characterised by low self-esteem and an intense fear of gaining weight. The prominence of eating disorders continues to increase. The lifetime risk of any eating disorder is 8.4% in women and 2.2% in men.
The Biological Aspect
Research indicates that biological factors, such as genetic predisposition, play a significant role in eating disorder development. Hormonal imbalances and abnormalities in specific brain structures also contribute to these conditions. This highlights the crucial need for a multi-faceted approach to understanding and treating eating disorders effectively.
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Anorexia Nervosa (AN)
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that manifests in two distinct types: restricting and binging/purging.
The Restricting Type
Individuals with this type of AN engage in a severe restriction of food intake, often consuming far fewer calories than needed to maintain basic body function. This relentless pursuit of thinness leads to a significant loss of body weight, pushing people into a dangerous zone of malnutrition and health complications.
The Binge-Eating/Purging Type
The second type of AN involves episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours such as self-induced vomiting or the use of laxatives to prevent weight gain. This cycle of bingeing and purging not only affects physical health but also takes a toll on individuals’ mental well-being, leading to a vicious cycle of guilt and further restrictive behaviours.
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Bulimia Nervosa (BN)
The Binge-Purge Cycle
Bulimia nervosa is characterised by a recurring cycle of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours to prevent weight gain. The binge episodes involve consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often accompanied by a feeling of loss of control.
This is followed by purging behaviours, including forced vomiting and excessive exercise, to get rid of the unwanted calories. The main thing that distinguishes BN from binge-purge-type anorexia nervosa is that a person with purge-type will also have low body weight.
The Physical and Psychological Toll
Bingeing and purging has severe repercussions on both physical and psychological health. It can lead to gastrointestinal problems, dental issues and severe dehydration. On the psychological front, individuals often suffer from anxiety, depression and low self-esteem, finding themselves trapped in a cycle of guilt and shame.
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Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
The Uncontrolled Episodes
Binge eating disorder is characterised by frequent episodes of uncontrolled eating, where individuals consume large amounts of food in a short period. Eating disorders of such type are marked by feelings of distress, guilt and loss of control, significantly affecting mental health.
Health Risks
Unlike bulimia nervosa, BED does not involve compensatory behaviours post-binge episodes, leading to weight gain and associated health risks such as cardiovascular diseases. It is essential to address this disorder promptly to prevent further complications and to help individuals regain control over their eating behaviours.
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Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
The Characteristics
ARFID, also known as “selective eating disorder” is an eating disorder governed by a severe limitation in the types of food one consumes. It is not driven by a fear of weight gain or a distorted body image but rather involves avoidance of certain textures, colours or types of food groups, often leading to nutritional deficiencies.
The Onset and Progression
Restrictive food intake disorder often begins in infancy or early childhood and can persist into adulthood. Eating disorders like ARFID can lead to significant health issues, including developmental delays and failure to gain weight appropriately during development, necessitating early intervention to prevent long-term complications.
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Night Eating Syndrome (NES)
The Delayed Eating Pattern
Night eating syndrome is an eating disorder that involves a delay in the circadian rhythm of food intake, with individuals consuming a significant portion of their daily calories during the evening and night. This syndrome is characterised by morning anorexia, where individuals skip breakfast, and evening hyperphagia, involving the consumption of large amounts of food later in the day.
The Associated Challenges
People with NES often struggle with obesity, finding it challenging to maintain a healthy body weight due to their irregular eating patterns. The syndrome is also associated with sleep disturbances, adding to the complexity of the disorder and requiring a comprehensive approach to treatment.
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Orthorexia
The Obsession with Healthy Eating
Orthorexia, though not officially recognised as a distinct eating disorder, involves an obsession with healthy eating. Individuals with this disorder spend an excessive amount of time planning their diet, focusing rigidly on the quality and purity of the food they consume, often at the expense of their nutritional needs.
The Impact on Daily Life
The compulsive behaviour associated with orthorexia can significantly impact a person’s daily life, leading to social isolation as they avoid situations involving food that does not meet their stringent criteria. The disorder can also lead to nutritional deficiencies, as individuals restrict themselves to a narrow range of foods deemed “healthy.”
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Rumination Disorder
Rumination disorder is an eating disorder involving the repeated regurgitation of food, which may be re-chewed, re-swallowed or spat out. This disorder can occur at any age and often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, leading to a complex clinical picture that requires a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment.
The constant regurgitation of food can lead to a range of health issues, including malnutrition, weight loss and dental problems. It is essential to address this disorder promptly to prevent further complications and to help individuals manage their symptoms effectively.
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Diabulimia
Diabulimia is a serious eating disorder where individuals with type 1 diabetes deliberately take less insulin than they need, aiming to lose weight. This disorder is extremely dangerous, leading to severe medical complications, including diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention.
Given the severe health risks associated with diabulimia, it is crucial to identify and treat this eating disorder promptly. It involves a comprehensive approach that includes medical management to address physical health issues and psychotherapy to help individuals cope with the psychological aspects of the disorder.
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Pica
Pica involves the consumption of non-food items, such as soil, paper, and soap, among others. This disorder is characterised by persistent eating of non-nutritive substances for a period of at least one month, often leading to serious health issues, including infections and surgical emergencies.
Early intervention is crucial in managing pica, to prevent the ingestion of harmful substances that can lead to severe health complications. Treatment involves addressing the underlying causes of the disorder, which may include nutritional deficiencies (fat grams consumed) and mental health issues, to help individuals overcome their urges to consume non-food items.
Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED)
OSFED encompasses a range of eating disorders that do not meet the full criteria for any of the other disorders discussed above.
This category includes conditions such as atypical anorexia nervosa, where individuals have all the symptoms of anorexia nervosa but are not underweight, and purging disorder, where individuals engage in purging behaviours without binge eating.
Diagnosing OSFED can be complex, given the broad range of symptoms and behaviours that fall under this category.
A comprehensive assessment is required to understand the unique characteristics of each individual’s disorder, allowing for a tailored treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and challenges.
Free Assessment for Eating Disorders and Addiction
We offer free eating disorder and substance addiction assessments as part of our admissions process.
Signs of Eating Disorders and Their Link to Addiction
Eating disorders manifest through various physical and behavioural signs, extending beyond just eating habits. Recognising indicators can be the first step towards understanding their profound impact on a person’s well-being. This section explores common signs, highlighting their often complex relationship with co-occurring addiction. Physical signs common in people with eating disorders include:
- Low body weight (improper food rituals)
- Experiencing amenorrhea or infertility
- Dental issues, especially among young individuals
- Concerns about weight, even when it’s within a normal range
- Unsuccessful weight loss attempts in overweight or obese individuals
- Gastrointestinal problems without another medical explanation
- Delayed growth in children
- Parental concerns regarding their child’s weight and eating habits
- Erratic eating habits
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Substance Misuse
The connection between eating disorders and substance misuse is often complex. Many people use drug or alcohol misuse as a way to cope with the difficult emotions or symptoms related to their eating disorder. Conversely, substance misuse can sometimes lead to or worsen disordered eating patterns, creating a challenging cycle.
Understanding this intricate relationship is crucial for effective dual diagnosis rehab treatment. Addressing only one condition can hamper the chances of lasting recovery, as the untreated issue can trigger relapse in the other. Alcohol or drug addiction treatment plans, therefore, must accommodate the whole person. This includes acknowledging co-occurring eating disorders and providing support for mental stability throughout inpatient rehab. Such comprehensive care addresses all facets of well-being during recovery from substance misuse.
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Anorexia and Drug or Alcohol Addiction
Anorexia nervosa often co-occurs with drug or alcohol addiction, creating a highly complex dual diagnosis. People living with anorexia might use substances to suppress appetite, manage anxiety around food or cope with the physical discomfort of starvation. This interaction significantly worsens both conditions, making recovery more challenging.
Treating co-occurring anorexia and substance misuse requires highly specialised and integrated care. Both conditions are serious, and addressing one without the other can hinder lasting recovery. Residential addiction treatment focuses on stabilising physical health, managing substance dependence and accommodating the underlying eating disorder simultaneously for sustained well-being.
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Bulimia and Drug or Alcohol Misuse
Bulimia nervosa frequently co-occurs with drug or alcohol misuse, as people living with bulimia might use substances to control appetite, cope with binge-purge cycles or manage intense emotions. This interaction can intensify symptoms of both conditions, complicating a person’s path to recovery.
Managing substance addiction can be particularly challenging for someone also living with bulimia nervosa. The intertwined nature of bulimia’s difficulties adds a significant layer, making overcoming drug or alcohol misuse profoundly demanding. This situation calls for truly caring and empathetic staff to help people navigate their recovery journey with reassurance.
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Binge Eating Disorder with Alcohol or Drug Addiction
Binge eating disorder often occurs alongside alcohol or drug addiction, creating a challenging dual diagnosis. People may use substances to cope with feelings of shame or distress related to binge eating, or use binging to manage substance-related anxiety. This complex interaction can intensify symptoms, complicating a person’s path to recovery.
Treating co-occurring binge eating disorder and substance misuse demands an integrated approach. Addressing only one condition can disrupt progress, as the untreated issue may trigger relapse in the other. Accredited addiction treatment in the UK focuses on stabilising mental health behaviours and managing substance dependence concurrently, supporting overall well-being.
Eating Disorder and Addiction Diagnosis
Diagnosing an eating disorder involves a thorough assessment of a person’s eating behaviours and physical health. This includes evaluating body mass index, dietary patterns and any rapid weight changes. Recognising signs like unusual food rituals or excessive exercise can also indicate the presence of an eating disorder. A correct diagnosis ensures the person receives targeted support for their specific challenges.
When an eating disorder co-occurs with addiction, the diagnostic process becomes more complex. Professionals must assess both conditions, understanding how they influence each other. This comprehensive evaluation is vital because the interplay between the two can complicate symptoms and treatment approaches, impacting overall health.
Treatment for Eating Disorders and Addiction
The primary goal of treating any eating disorder is to normalise eating behaviour and address associated psychological challenges. Structured, symptom-oriented treatment is crucial from the start, often combined with nutritional guidance. For conditions like bulimia nervosa, which commonly co-occur with psychological challenges, cognitive behavioural therapy is a leading approach, helping people manage harmful thoughts and behaviours effectively.
For those facing both an eating disorder and addiction, rehabilitation treatment must consider both conditions. Recognising severe co-occurring issues like anorexia, depression or personality disorders means maintaining compassionate awareness of them within drug or alcohol addiction treatment approaches. Comprehensive therapies focus on improving mental clarity for each person’s challenges while treating addiction for sustained recovery.
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Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Eating Disorders and Addiction
Dual diagnosis treatment for eating disorders and addiction addresses both conditions at the same time. This approach is vital because these challenges often interact, with symptoms of one worsening the other. People may use substance misuse to cope with eating disorder distress, creating a complex cycle. Integrated care helps break this pattern for true recovery.
At Castle Craig, we understand the intricate link between eating disorders and drug or alcohol addiction. Our dual diagnosis treatment allows you to receive expert attention within a safe, residential setting. We focus on healing the whole person, supporting you to develop robust coping strategies for lasting well-being and freedom from addiction.
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Medically Managed Detox for Patients with Eating Disorders
Medically managed detox may be necessary for people experiencing eating disorders alongside substance misuse. This process focuses on safely stabilising a person’s physical health while managing withdrawal symptoms from drug or alcohol addiction. It addresses the immediate physiological impact, creating a secure foundation before deeper therapeutic work on both conditions can begin.
At Castle Craig, our medically managed detox provides expert oversight for those with co-occurring disorders. We prioritise your safety and comfort during this critical phase, offering 24/7 medical supervision within a supportive residential detox setting. Our professional, caring approach prepares you for the next steps in your addiction treatment journey.
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Inpatient Eating Disorder and Addiction Treatment
Inpatient residential treatment offers a dedicated setting for people addressing co-occurring eating disorders and substance addiction. People reside within the facility, benefiting from a structured, immersive environment. This allows for concentrated healing away from external triggers and daily pressures, providing a vital opportunity to focus fully on recovery.
At Castle Craig, our inpatient eating disorder and addiction treatment provides comprehensive support in the Scottish Borders. Our setting keeps you safe and allows your boundaries to be respected. This structured environment is especially beneficial for people with eating disorder challenges, offering a clear framework for healing. Our approach helps you rebuild health and develop coping strategies for lasting well-being and sobriety.
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Long-term Rehab Treatment for Eating Disorders and Addiction
Long-term rehabilitation treatment for eating disorders and substance addiction is often crucial for lasting abstinence. This extended period allows for deeper therapeutic work, helping people develop robust coping mechanisms and regulate challenging emotions. It builds stable behaviours necessary for managing both conditions and achieving lasting well-being away from daily complexities.
At Castle Craig, we provide 90-day care plans within our residential setting. Our approach offers consistent guidance and ongoing therapy, addressing the intricate nature of co-occurring eating disorders and substance misuse. We empower you with the time and tools needed to fully integrate new strategies and healthier habits, paving the way for a more balanced future.
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Private & Discreet Eating Disorder and Addiction Support
Private and discreet addiction support offers immediate access to specialised care for eating disorders and substance addiction, often without waiting lists. This option provides a confidential and highly focused environment for recovery, removed from public view. People can address complex co-occurring conditions with peace of mind, knowing their privacy is paramount.
At Castle Craig, we understand the profound importance of privacy for people addressing complex dual diagnoses. Our residential addiction treatment is delivered with utmost discretion within a secluded setting in the Scottish Borders. We provide a safe and focused space for your healing, supporting your unique recovery journey for substance misuse.
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Luxury Rehab Treatment for Anorexia or Bulimia with Addiction
Luxury rehab treatment offers an elevated standard of care for people navigating anorexia or bulimia with addiction. These facilities provide enhanced privacy, premium amenities and a highly comfortable environment. Such a setting supports focused recovery, helping people address complex co-occurring conditions away from daily life’s pressures and distractions.
The benefits of luxury rehab often include a higher staff-to-person ratio and a broader range of therapeutic options. This provides greater attention to personal needs, supporting both eating disorder recovery and substance addiction treatment. The emphasis on comfort and holistic well-being creates a highly conducive atmosphere for profound healing.
Therapies for Eating Disorders and Addiction at Castle Craig
At Castle Craig, we help people grappling with addictive disorders alongside mild anorexia, bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder. We integrate awareness of eating disorders into our drug or alcohol addiction treatment, providing a supportive environment. Our skilled multidisciplinary team understands how eating disorder challenges can impact recovery from substance misuse. They prioritise your overall well-being throughout your stay, helping you navigate these complexities within your primary addiction care.
Our approach is grounded in understanding eating disorders as illnesses involving a problematic relationship with food. This often accompanies negative body image, perfectionism, impulsivity and low self-esteem. We employ a group and community-based cognitive behavioural therapy approach, introducing people to the 12 Steps for substance addiction recovery and peer support with their unique battles.
We are here to help you navigate the challenges that come with mental health and addiction. Through a blend of therapies, including the empowering holistic approaches, we help you find strength and healing from within. Deciding to seek help is a powerful step towards reclaiming your life. Explore our comprehensive drug and alcohol treatment options and call us on 01721 546 263 today.
Nutritional Guidance and Diet
Understanding the pivotal role of nutrition in recovery, the clinic’s chefs craft three healthy and nutritious meals daily, alongside snacks. Patients with eating disorders are encouraged and supported to foster a pattern of normal eating, with the option to seek dietary advice from a dietician. The nutritional value of foods plays a significant role in providing enough calories through food.
Addressing Co-Occurring Issues
Eating disorders often co-exist with other mental health issues such as depression and self-harm, especially in individuals with anorexia. Castle Craig addresses these intertwined issues through a range of psycho-social interventions including 1:1, group, family and complementary therapies.
Aftercare and Continued Support
As patients approach the end of their treatment, Castle Craig prepares them for the journey ahead with a personalised continuing care plan, formulated in discussions with the medical and therapeutic team. The clinic offers a 24-week online continuing care programme post-treatment for private paying patients, facilitating a smooth transition back into daily life. Moreover, patients become part of our Recovery Club, staying connected through annual reunions, events, online workshops and recovery newsletters, building a community of support and understanding.
Our Approach to Eating Disorders and Addiction
At Castle Craig, our approach to eating disorders and addiction focuses on integrated healing. We recognise the complex connection between these co-occurring conditions, providing comprehensive and caring residential addiction treatment. Our skilled team helps you navigate your personal recovery goals, building a strong foundation for lasting well-being and freedom from substance misuse.
How to Get Help for Addiction and Eating Disorders
If urgent help is needed for an eating disorder alongside addiction, phoning emergency services is vital. Crisis support services and charities also offer immediate assistance in your area. Speaking with a doctor is another crucial initial step to getting help. They can guide you or your loved one toward appropriate care and a safe path to recovery.
Residential rehab for addiction and eating disorders in the UK, particularly where a clinical team understands complex dual diagnoses, offers significant advantages. For instance, those facing anorexia and alcohol addiction or bulimia and drug misuse will benefit from a dedicated inpatient treatment period. This allows their substance addiction challenges to receive person-centred, focused care.
Eating Disorder and Addiction Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Castle Craig
Treating co-occurring eating disorders and substance addiction requires a truly unified approach. These dual challenges often intertwine, with each condition influencing the other’s progression. A clear strategy is necessary to address the underlying psychological and behavioural links, paving the way for a more stable and sustainable sobriety journey.
At Castle Craig, we provide integrated residential treatment specifically for people facing a dual diagnosis. Our skilled team delivers expert care designed to heal drug or alcohol addiction while accommodating your personal needs for therapy. We support you in gaining the necessary tools for well-being and lasting sobriety. Call us on 01721 546 263 to learn more.
Co-Occurring Disorder Related Guides
Dual Diagnosis | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Teens | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Women | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Men | Luxury Dual Diagnosis Rehab
Mental Health and Eating Disorder Related Guides
ADHD and addiction | Anxiety and addiction | Depression and addiction | OCD and addiction | Personality disorders and addiction | PTSD and addiction | Schizophrenia and addiction | Social anxiety and addiction | Eating disorders and addiction
Does Private Health Insurance Cover Eating Disorder and Addiction Treatment in the UK?
Yes, private health and medical insurance in the UK can cover eating disorder and addiction treatment. Coverage will depend on your specific policy, its level of benefits and any applicable exclusions. Many major private medical insurers in the UK are approved providers for addiction and mental health care, often including eating disorders.
It is always wise to review your policy documents thoroughly or contact your insurer directly to confirm what aspects of your residential treatment are included. Once approved, Castle Craig accepts private health or medical insurance for residential addiction treatment that includes support for eating disorders. Your policy may include benefits for medically managed detox and various therapies addressing both conditions.
Contact Castle Craig Confidential Residential Rehab Centre
Taking the very first step to seek help for drug or alcohol addiction can feel incredibly daunting. We understand the courage it takes to consider residential addiction treatment, especially when you also suffer from an eating disorder. Please know that when you contact us, you will be met with genuine understanding and a kind, supportive ear. We are here to understand your situation without judgement and offer ways to help you.
Reaching out to our confidential residential rehab centre is a truly private conversation. We want you to feel completely comfortable discussing your situation, knowing your privacy is respected. This call marks the start of exploring your options for healing and well-being. Our team is ready to help you begin that journey. Call us on 01721 546 263 – we are here to listen.
Confidential Eating Disorder and Addiction Assessment
Compassionate, expertly delivered evidence-based practices and a patient-centred approach are at the heart of our treatment model. Request a call-back from one of our professionals on any day of the week.