Holistic Addiction Treatment

Drug addiction is a common issue that causes many people to seek treatment. An inpatient facility offers a number of options designed to get to the root of the addiction and help clients. A holistic drug treatment program includes elements that treat a client’s body, mind, and soul. All aspects have been affected by the addiction and need healing as part of the treatment process.

Holistically Treating Physical Needs

A client who arrives at a treatment program will be assessed to determine what his or her needs are before an individual treatment plan can be devised. If a person is still using drugs or alcohol, the first step may include going through holistic detox, or a similar program to free the body from the physical effects of drugs and/or alcohol.

Medically supervised detox is a safer way to deal with this part of the treatment. It involves slowly lowering the amount of drugs and alcohol in a client’s system until he or she is completely drug-free.

Nutrition And Exercise In Holistic Treatment

The other aspect of looking after a client during inpatient drug and alcohol treatment is recognizing that a person may not have been eating properly. The treatment program needs to include some instruction in healthy eating, as well as exercise classes and opportunities to spend time outside.  Because they’re so lost in the addiction, many addicts forget to provide very basic care for themselves.

Addressing Mental Health Needs In Holistic Treatment

Successful addiction treatment must include treating a client’s mental health needs. The initial screening should also include an evaluation for issues like depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. If holistic treatment for co-occurring disorder is required, expert treatment will be provided for the mental health concern as well as individual and group counseling for the addiction. Both issues are addressed concurrently to help clients in recovery.

Over time, clients can learn how to recognize the situations that may act as triggers for them to use drugs or alcohol. They can start to learn how to change thought processes to move away from negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones that can help to strengthen their commitment to sobriety.

Treating Spirit And Soul With Holistic Treatment

The third part of holistic drug and alcohol treatment programs involves focusing on the client’s soul. It’s just as important as taking good care of the body and teaching clients in treatment how to refocus their way of thinking in a more positive manner. A person’s relationship with his or herself is likely broken at this level from the addiction, and it can be repaired as part of the treatment process.

Meditation can help, even though many people may feel awkward about taking the time to be still and experience what they feel as they spend time in quiet contemplation. Over time, this strategy should help clients to develop a sense of peace and mindfulness that they can use to keep stress levels down.

Holistic drug rehabs use this three-pronged approach to help clients develop good strategies for their sobriety goals. The more tools they can add to their inventory, the more likely the client will be able to achieve long-term recovery.

Confronting Addiction In A Loved One

Most individuals who abuse drugs and alcohol do not believe or realize that a problem exists. Addiction has a way of changing people, and confronting an addict about their behavior can be difficult at best. Though approaching an addicted loved one may seem scary, an open mind, proper preparation, plan of action and willingness to discuss the issues at hand will work to ensure that the discussion goes smoothly.

Tips For Confronting And Dealing With An Addicted Loved One

1 – Before the discussion can begin, it is important to touch base with a substance abuse treatment program. You will be better prepared to move forward with the treatment process. The addict will be able to check in and get situated before they have the opportunity to change their mind.

2 – Do your research. Find information regarding why people use drugs, their effects on users, and the consequences associated with routine/long-term abuse. Educating yourself on the facts associated with addiction is crucial, ensuring that when the discussion or intervention takes place, that the focus is facts, rather than emotion.

3 – Engage your loved one with an open conversation by discussing the specific issues they have and which substances they are using. Make sure to listen to what they have to say, showing that you care in a calm, collected and non-judgmental manner.

4 – Offer up information regarding addiction to educate them as to the danger associated with their behaviors. Provide suggestions for rehabilitation and open up the conversation to include various treatment options.

5 – Discuss your concerns with other friends and family members of the addict. Tell them why you are concerned and what steps you are taking to combat the issue. Some people will ignore addiction until a point where the issue is properly illuminated. Opening up the discussion will promote support and communication amongst loved ones while working to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

6 – Consider an intervention. If an addict is hesitant to seek help on their own, an intervention may jump start the process. Interventions allow participants to communicate their feelings and concern to the addict in a direct, calculated and positive manner.

7 – Seek out professional help for the intervention. A trained interventionist will be able to provide an objective and accurate account of the addict’s behavior while serving as a mediator for friends and family members. Many interventionists will also help with the planning process to ensure a positive and productive experience for all involved.

Need Help Facing An Addict Or Addiction?

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, Above It All Treatment Center is the place to call. Pick up the phone today and let our team of addiction specialists help you back on track towards the healthy, happy and fulfilling lifestyle you’ve been missing.

Learn How To Confront Teenage Drug Use

What Are The Top Influencers Of Substance Abuse And The Effects?

Drug and alcohol abuse affects millions of people the world over. From family and friends to work associates, the issue stems throughout our culture, relationships and livelihood. In this entry we will discuss some of the facts associated with substance abuse.

Substance Abuse And Young People

Though drug and alcohol abuse affects each and every age demographic, young people are at the heart of the issue. The younger an individual is when they begin to dabble with a substance, the greater chance that they will become addicted. This problem is paramount, due to the structure of the adolescent brain which is not fully developed pertaining to judgment and decision-making – heightening the vulnerability of damage later in life.

Effects Of Brain Chemistry From Drug Abuse

Once a substance is ingested, whether it is orally, injected or smoked, brain chemistry is altered in a way that the likelihood of a user becoming addicted or dependent skyrockets. These changes ultimately result in a higher tolerance, increased need for the drug, and a higher risk of addiction later in life.

Biological Predisposition To Addiction

Some individuals are born with a predisposition to addiction. This heightened risk of abuse, alongside a person’s environment, accounts for 50% of a user’s addiction vulnerability. Simply put, if a child is born to addict parents, it is essential that they be provided an environment free of addiction if they are to experience a chance at an addiction-free life.

Influence On Drug Use

Peers play a crucial role in regard to substance abuse vulnerability… parents even more so. According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, adolescents cite their parents as a greater influence when compared to peers in the area of whether or not to experiment with drugs or alcohol.

Addiction Treatment And Recovery

Recovery is not a “one size fits all” situation. Many addicts utilize 12-step programs, while others seek aid through holistic means. Some individuals can manage recovery with a combination of therapy and medication, while others require in-patient care.

As with most ailments, addiction may not respond to the initial treatment attempt. Even in a case where the individual is driven to succeed, it may take numerous attempts before they are able to effectively combat their addiction.

Substance Abuse Prevention

Most experts agree that prevention efforts involving family members, schools, media and the community at large are most effective in regard to substance abuse prevention. When individuals (children, teens, adults) recognize the dangers of substance abuse, statistics show an immediate reduction in use. As such, continued education is vital to the success of substance abuse prevention.

Need Addiction Treatment Help?

Looking for a drug abuse program? Contact Above It All Treatment Center today! With a team of seasoned addiction and recovery specialists available to assess and address your individual needs, you can count on Above It All to help you fight your addiction battles and start you on a path of sobriety and freedom!

Cory Monteith Emmy Tribute Shines Spotlight On Addiction And Treatment

The television industry took time to remember the late Cory Monteith at the 65th Primetime Emmy Awards. Glee costar Jane Lynch described the late actor, who died in July at age 31 from a drug overdose, as a “beautiful soul.” She commented that his death was “tragic reminder of the rapacious, senseless destruction that is brought on by addiction.”

Despite his obvious talent and the warmth and wonderful sense of humor that friends and family will always remember about him, Monteith also struggled with a disease that took his life. He had sought addiction treatment more than once during his life. As a chronic illness, it needs to be constantly monitored for signs of relapse. Monteith’s tragic death shines a light on the issue of addiction and underlines the need to seek help immediately.

Effective Inpatient Addiction Treatment

Are you looking at long term vs. short term rehab for yourself or a loved one? Long term rehabilitation treatment involves a 90-day stay at an inpatient facility. During this time, you can focus your attention on getting well.

No two people seeking help for addiction are exactly the same. Each person’s treatment needs are evaluated, and in some instances, a short-term 14-28 day treatment program may be recommended. There is no quick-fix to deal with the issues around addiction, but some clients can benefit from this type of program.

Short term drug rehab treatment may be recommended when a client cannot be admitted into a program for 90 days due to work or family obligations. It may also be appropriate for a client who has been treated at an inpatient facility previously.

Customized Approach To Treatment

Each client entering a drug and alcohol treatment program for a short-term program will be given an individualized course of treatment. It will include attending 12-step program meetings, as well as:

  • Individual therapy sessions
  • Group therapy
  • One-on-one counseling
  • Life skills instruction
  • Education about addiction

The program also includes physical exercise, including hiking, nature walks, and yoga. Proper nutrition is important for clients in recovery, and they receive instruction on how to eat well.

Family Support During Addiction Treatment

Family support is important to help clients achieve long-term sobriety, and the Above It All Treatment Center includes them in this process. Through family sessions, they can share their feelings about addiction and understand the disease known as addiction. Everyone can help to move forward together to present a united front to help provide support once you or your loved one leaves the treatment program.

Above It All in Lake Arrowhead offers short and long-term rehab treatment programs for drug and alcohol addiction. Our experienced staff can help you or your loved one find the right path to long-term sobriety.

12 Step Addiction Treatment Programs – Top Questions Answered

Twelve step programs can be part of an inpatient or outpatient drug or alcohol addiction treatment program. Alcoholics Anonymous was the first program to use this approach, and other groups have adapted it to suit their needs. The first step on the road to recovery is to acknowledge that there is a problem. Here are some FAQs about the 12-step approach to treatment.

Why Is It Important For An Addict To Admit The Problem?

In Step 1, the addict admits that he or she is “powerless” over alcohol (or drugs) and that his or her life has become unmanageable. This is the start of the process where the person is starting to come out of denial and starts to focus less on the substance and more on their own contribution to the problem.

How Often Do I Need To Go To 12-Step Meetings?

In the early stages of recovery, a person may go to meetings on a daily basis. For clients who are being treated at 12 step recovery programs, attending meetings may be part of their individual treatment plan. The exact schedule will depend on their needs, and they will continue to attend meetings if they choose to stay at a sober living house after leaving the inpatient treatment program.

Do I Need To Be Religious To Follow A 12-Step Program?

Step 3 does talk about “turning our lives over to the care of God as we understood God,” but this program is non-denominational can be followed by people of any religious faith, as well as by those who consider themselves agnostics or atheists.

When Do I Have To Choose A Sponsor In A 12-Step Program?

You are not required to choose a sponsor in a 12-step program, although you are much more likely to stay sober if you do. If you decide to approach someone about being your sponsor, it should be someone that you have gotten to know from attending several meetings. Take your time and consider the matter carefully. This person should be someone who has been in recovery for a while who can provide guidance and support to you.

Will People Be Judging Me If I Talk At 12-Step Meetings?

Everyone who is going to a recovery meeting understands because they have also struggled with substance abuse issues. Everyone in the room will understand exactly where you are coming from. Nothing you can say will shock anyone there; some group members may have been through similar experiences when they were drinking or using drugs.

Will Anything I Say Be Discussed Outside Of The 12-Step Group?

No. Group members agree that anything discussed during a group meeting is confidential. Whether you are participating in the discussion as part of a 12 step long term rehab program or going to a meeting on your own, the word “anonymous” is in the name for a reason. You can share whatever is on your mind without having to worry about your thoughts or feelings being discussed elsewhere.

The Above It All drug and alcohol Treatment Center focuses on the 12-step approach to recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, as well as several other effective treatment options.

How Do You Reverse The Effects Of Alcohol On The Body?

Excessive drinking over an elongated period can result in serious damage to the brain and liver in addition to other health issues. The amount of damage is generally proportionate to the amount of time spent drinking and the consumption amounts throughout that period.

If you are seeking a change in lifestyle, the good news is that a portion of these negative effects can still be reversed. Though the journey is a difficult one, you will find that the benefits are well worth the effort.

[cta] Ready to quit drinking & start over? Call us at (888) 997-4116! We’re here to help.[/cta]

Steps To Reverse Effects Of Alcohol On The Body

1 – Stop drinking. According to a 2006 study by Stanford University, alcoholics who kick the bottle were able to regain mental abilities and cognitive skills. Results were generally seen following 13 months of complete abstinence and progressed over time.

2 – Nutrition is key! Make vegetables and fruits an everyday habit, choose whole grain alternatives over white flour carbohydrates and opt for white meat instead of red. Eat three meals daily alongside small snacks to keep your blood sugar at a healthy level. Avoid sugar, saturated fats and excess salt.

3 – Begin taking stem enhancers*. These are remedies that serve to grow new cells where damage is present. Some people have rebuilt up to 25% of their liver cells with the aid of stem enhancers; improving the health of the liver for years to come. *Always discuss with your physician before starting or taking any supplements, enhancers or medicines.

4 – Get physical! Routine physical activity should become the norm to help your body regain the strength lost during your drinking years. Exercise will also rid your body of toxins that have complied over time.

5 – Take milk thistle seeds. Native to parts of Africa, Europe and Asia, milk thistle is an herb commonly used to address liver issues. Though most people opt for the pill form, it can also be taken in as a tea. Be sure to take milk thistle as directed by the instructions provided on the package. Those who are currently on any prescription medication, are breastfeeding or pregnant are advised to consult with their physician before beginning a milk thistle regimen to avoid any adverse issues.

6 – Drink mineral water. Though it may sound silly, mineral water is widely considered a healthier alternative to tap water. When you drink mineral water, the minerals get deposited throughout the body, resulting in a variety of therapeutic benefits, the major one being the balance of the body overall.

Researching alcohol addiction facilities? Contact Above It All addiction Treatment Center! With a team of seasoned addiction and recovery specialists available to assess and address your individual needs, you can count on Above It All Treatment Center to have you on the fast track to recovery in no time. Call today for more information!

Read About What To Avoid During Recovery From Alcohol

Naveen Andrews Talks About Sober Living, Role As Princess Diana’s Lost Love

Actor Naveen Andrews is familiar to fans of the television program, “Lost.” In his latest film, “Diana,” he takes on the role of Pakistani heart surgeon Dr. Hasnat Khan opposite Naomi Watts in the title role. The movie, which is based on Kate Snell’s book, “Diana: Her Last Love,” tells the story of the late Princess of Wales’ romantic relationship with the doctor.

In an interview to promote the film, Andrews was also candid about his alcoholism and history of heroin abuse. He is now living a sober life and says that he feels relieved that he “has found a way to function without those things.”

Sober Living Part Of Addiction Treatment Process

For addicts, there is no such thing as being “finished” or “cured.” When someone enters a treatment facility, it is the first step in the journey to deal with this complicated disease. A client may need to go through detox before starting an individualized course of treatment, which may include attending 12-step program meetings, participating in equine therapy sessions, or learning ways to cope with stress. Once this phase of treatment is completed, follow-up care at the Above It All sober living house can be arranged to provide support to clients.

Support Needed For Transition To Independent Living

Part of the addiction treatment process involves giving clients the tools they need to deal with triggers that will stimulate the urge to drink or use drugs. The Above It All Treatment Center sober living home gives clients a safe, supportive place to stay in the early days of recovery, when they are most vulnerable to these types of cravings.

Guests pay their rent every month, in advance. This amount also includes the services of a driver to take them to their 12-step meetings.

There is no time limit imposed on how long a guest can choose to stay at the sober living house. A typical stay is between two and three months, but a person may decide to stay for a shorter or longer time. As long as a guest follows the program rules, he or she is welcome to stay in the house.

Insurance Coverage for Stay In Sober Living House

Health insurance coverage may be available for addiction treatment, which includes the stay in a sober living house. Our services are covered by a number of major health insurance providers.

Making the transition to find a way to function without drugs and alcohol is not something that can be done overnight. It requires a series of steps, and constant vigilance to maintain lifelong sobriety. All the elements of the treatment plan, including the sober living house, have an important role to play to help clients achieve their goal of getting (and staying) clean and sober.

Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler’s Addiction Battle

Grammy-award winning front man and ex-American Idol judge Steven Tyler has spoken candidly regarding his past addiction troubles, stating, “I lost everything”.

The Aerosmith singer has undergone a variety of rehab stints over the years, most recently in 2009 to combat a nasty painkiller addiction.

“My sobriety cost me nothing less than everything. I lost everything. It’s serious. It’s serious when you lose your kids…your wife, your band, your job and you’ll never understand why because you’re an addict. You can’t figure that out…” says Tyler.

Tyler also told of the impact the addiction had on his relationship with his kids, stating, “Two of them never saw me high until about seven years ago. I had a bunch of operations and simply didn’t follow my program, and I kept drugs by the side of my bed so I just did more instead of doing what was prescribed. Remember, I’m a very good drug ‘addict’ because I’ve done it for so many years.”

“You also could say I snorted half of Peru,” Tyler joked with Howard Stern this past July.

The singer’s most recent battle with addiction was triggered by a literal fall off the stage in late 2009, prompting Aerosmith to cancel a series of scheduled tour stops. The future of the band, namely Tyler’s involvement, was ultimately brought into question as he took a well-publicized break from the group.

“Drugs took me down,” the singer admitted. “Yes it got us through the 70’s. If it wasn’t for Peruvian marching powder, we wouldn’t have been able to do what we did. From the ‘70s to ’79, we played every state except Alaska and Hawaii.”

What Steven was able to communicate to his fans was this: The road from rock bottom to sobriety is a long one indeed. Though the glitz and glam of drugs and alcohol may seem appealing to some, the reality is truly haunting.

“There’s three things that happen to you when you’re addicted to drugs after they take hold,” says Tyler, “is death, jail and insanity. And I can’t preach that enough. The only reason I ‘wound’ up in rehab is because I used to the point of falling down. My kids tell me, ‘Daddy, I don’t know who you are anymore.’ Wives leave, bands break up, and it’s really a one-way street.”

Need Help?

Researching substance abuse facilities? Contact Above It All Treatment Center today! With a team of seasoned addiction and recovery professionals available to assess and address your individual needs, you can count on Above It All to have you smiling, healthy and on the fast track to recovery in no time. Call today for more information!