Substance Abuse is a growing problem worldwide. With unsecure borders and ever growing drug cartels, the availability of drugs is greater than ever. However, with the help of addiction treatment many former addicts are able to go back to leading happy, successful lives. Although, one can’t help but wonder what would happen if such treatment was no longer available? What kind of strain would it put on the economy and society as a whole?
One obvious consequence of a world without addiction treatment is that there would be more drug addicts. More addicts would mean more money going to drug dealers and cartels, as well as funding terrorism. That would also mean there would be less money going to help to legitimate business and our communities. There would be less money going to schools for extracurricular activities or to keeping national parks open or improving roads. Not to mention increased wealth, could also mean an increase in power and control for those selling the drugs.
On a societal level, we would see a dramatic increase in drug related crime; more fights and deaths over drugs, as well as accidents caused by addicts driving under the influence. There would also be an increase in drug related deaths and suicides as the drugs slowly take control over people’s brains . We would also see a dramatic rise in health care costs as liabilities and health care costs associated with drug use go up. More people would either on the street or in state or privately run facilities once their bodies, and more specifically their brains, could no longer take the consistent drug use.
Without addiction treatment our country, even our world, could not handle the health implications much less the financial burden that such a situation would create. Substance abuse treatment is an important part of our global society; to help keep our communities in check and give deserving people a second chance.
Showing posts with label substance abuse recovery pennsylvania. Show all posts
Showing posts with label substance abuse recovery pennsylvania. Show all posts
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Alcohol Rehab Pennsylvania
Finding help for addiction is a very difficult process and this article should help you with learning more about alcohol rehab. This is a special program that is designed to help an individual stop their addiction to beer, wine, and liquors. Because these substances are so easily available it is never an easy task to stop using them. Outlined below are steps to consider when seeking help and you should know that you never need to confront substance dependency alone. Contact a healthcare professional today if you need help. For many individuals alcohol rehab is a last resort. They may have tried to quit on their own or sought the help of their friends and family but this almost never means that a person will truly find help. Once a person is determined to be an alcoholic they are so for life. It is a disease and unless properly treated it can be fatal. That’s why friends and family can’t help you entirely. They can offer support but they don’t have the knowledge to help you get to the root of your addiction. When you start contacting different alcohol rehab programs, make sure that they offer a range of care. Everyone has different reasons for their substance abuse issues and that means they also need different methods to help them recognize and get treatment for their addictions. By going to a program that gives you many alternatives, you’ll be able to find the right path for yourself. While at the center you also need to make sure that you are developing a framework to help you stay sober when you return home. Many people may feel alone and disappointed in themselves if they need to go to an alcohol rehab program. This isn’t the case and you should know that there are many people out there that support and are proud that you are seeking help. Because you’ve come to grips with your problems and are seeking the necessary help that means that you can begin living the life that you feel you deserve. By going to an alcohol rehab organization, you’ll ensure that you get help as quickly as possible and you can start your new life as soon as possible.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Issues in Substance Abuse Recovery?
Substance abuse treatment is the only real option for many people addicted to alcohol or drugs. Treatment can be done on an inpatient or outpatient basis and there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of treatment. Some programs are restricted to alcohol or other drugs, while other programs incorporate both alcohol and drugs into the same program.
Inpatient substance abuse treatment is more intense than the outpatient programs. The inpatient program can last for 30 days or can extend indefinitely, depending on the funding of the patient. People live in a confined setting and are monitored for detoxification. They are often prevented from leaving the program and they attend group and individual therapy during the day. They may have recreational programs but these are not part of the actual treatment. Inpatients work hard on their issues and try to find out the underlying problems that have contributed to their substance use. If they graduate from this type of program, they often go to outpatient therapy, AA or NA programs.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Inpatient substance abuse treatment is more intense than the outpatient programs. The inpatient program can last for 30 days or can extend indefinitely, depending on the funding of the patient. People live in a confined setting and are monitored for detoxification. They are often prevented from leaving the program and they attend group and individual therapy during the day. They may have recreational programs but these are not part of the actual treatment. Inpatients work hard on their issues and try to find out the underlying problems that have contributed to their substance use. If they graduate from this type of program, they often go to outpatient therapy, AA or NA programs.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Coping with a Substance Abuse Death
When trying to keep a family together and coexist with the family member with the substance abuse problem, the other family members will often feel many negative feelings, such as anger, frustration, sadness and depression. It is rarely just the one with the addiction that is affected. In most cases where family involved, the entire unit is affected mentally and physically, depending on how the one with the addiction handles themselves in certain states.
As the problem continues, a rift between the troubled person and the rest of their family can develop. There are many families who will remain with the individual hoping that the person will seek help one way or the other, while other families or individuals will not because they can’t stand to see the person go through the destructive cycle over and over again. There are, of course, other instances that differ from the two expressed above as every situation is unique because there are so many variables involved. Each individual who develops an addiction will often differ in their behavior from others suffering with similar problems.
Regardless of the situation, when a person does fail in their ability to deal with their addiction, the rest of the family can be greatly affected. Some will be more affect than they thought they would have. When a family member learns that one they had loved has passed away, it can feel like an empty void has entered their life. They can feel lost and stunned at first, but as the truth settles in and they accept that the unthinkable has happened, even if they partly expected it, they can go through intense, and sometimes uncontrollable, grief. In a situation like this, speaking with someone can be of great help.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
As the problem continues, a rift between the troubled person and the rest of their family can develop. There are many families who will remain with the individual hoping that the person will seek help one way or the other, while other families or individuals will not because they can’t stand to see the person go through the destructive cycle over and over again. There are, of course, other instances that differ from the two expressed above as every situation is unique because there are so many variables involved. Each individual who develops an addiction will often differ in their behavior from others suffering with similar problems.
Regardless of the situation, when a person does fail in their ability to deal with their addiction, the rest of the family can be greatly affected. Some will be more affect than they thought they would have. When a family member learns that one they had loved has passed away, it can feel like an empty void has entered their life. They can feel lost and stunned at first, but as the truth settles in and they accept that the unthinkable has happened, even if they partly expected it, they can go through intense, and sometimes uncontrollable, grief. In a situation like this, speaking with someone can be of great help.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Family Members and Addiction
When dealing with a member of the family who is either addicted to alcohol or some other hard street or prescription drug(s), there is the risk that the particular individual may eventually cause themselves great harm, or even death. Families, especially ones who were very close for the longest time, before the addiction took over, will often go through incredible suffering. First, there is the situation where the family will try their best to support their family member and work with them to find a solution to the problem.
Then, when that doesn’t seem to work, the family may try to just live with the problem, hoping that it will go away. Lastly, there is the situation where the family members separate and try to leave behind, or ignore, the problem that they have been unable to fix or deal with. Not every family reacts to the problem in the same way, though the three different situations expressed will be felt by most families in such a situation in one way or another. Regardless of how they deal with it, however, many families will eventually suffer from the most undesirable situation of all where that individual who suffered from the drug addiction passes away.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Then, when that doesn’t seem to work, the family may try to just live with the problem, hoping that it will go away. Lastly, there is the situation where the family members separate and try to leave behind, or ignore, the problem that they have been unable to fix or deal with. Not every family reacts to the problem in the same way, though the three different situations expressed will be felt by most families in such a situation in one way or another. Regardless of how they deal with it, however, many families will eventually suffer from the most undesirable situation of all where that individual who suffered from the drug addiction passes away.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Brain Injury and Substance Abuse...A Connection?
Alcohol and drugs have a more intense affect after a brain injury. According to research, substance abuse, even in small amounts, further decreases cognitive and physical functioning. Because of the already existing memory problems, they may incorrectly underestimate the amount they have consumed. Alcohol and drugs will also further impair an already faulty memory. According to the Brain Injury Association of America there is no safe amount to drink after a brain injury. Those who use alcohol or other drugs after a brain injury do not recover as well and can in fact lose much of the progress they have gained.
It is recommended that in order to maximize the quality of their life they be encouraged to join support groups, recreational groups and other activities so they will have fewer times to be alone and therefore avoid boredom. This will only work of course if the injured person is agreeable to becoming involved in activities. It is also suggested that liquor not be kept in the home. However, if the injured person is able to drive this will not be a solution.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
It is recommended that in order to maximize the quality of their life they be encouraged to join support groups, recreational groups and other activities so they will have fewer times to be alone and therefore avoid boredom. This will only work of course if the injured person is agreeable to becoming involved in activities. It is also suggested that liquor not be kept in the home. However, if the injured person is able to drive this will not be a solution.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
When Your Spouse is Addicted There is Help
Dealing with such a situation is extremely stressful and draining. It is not one that anyone wants to experience, but many do around the world every day. At first, many will try and help their husband or wife fight their addiction; sometimes they are successful, other times they are not. Many will live in the situation for many years, while some will leave after a short time. It all depends on how long someone wants to, and can, try and put up with the situation and make the marriage work.
Going through such an experience is not only unnerving; it is confusing, frustrating and painful. It can make the victim feel very alone in the world and at a loss of what to do. Time stops for them and they are suddenly not living at all, just going through the motions every day, walking on eggshells and hoping that things will get better. What many don’t realize, is that there is someone they can talk to. They even have access to an online counselor if they did a quick search online for online counselors. Online therapists are there to talk with anyone who asks for their help. They will work with the patient and help to guide them through their difficulties. Online therapy can be extremely beneficial to anyone who needs to find some direction in their life and decide on what they should do, because it can help them take some time out and seek out what they truly feel they should do.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Going through such an experience is not only unnerving; it is confusing, frustrating and painful. It can make the victim feel very alone in the world and at a loss of what to do. Time stops for them and they are suddenly not living at all, just going through the motions every day, walking on eggshells and hoping that things will get better. What many don’t realize, is that there is someone they can talk to. They even have access to an online counselor if they did a quick search online for online counselors. Online therapists are there to talk with anyone who asks for their help. They will work with the patient and help to guide them through their difficulties. Online therapy can be extremely beneficial to anyone who needs to find some direction in their life and decide on what they should do, because it can help them take some time out and seek out what they truly feel they should do.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Is Your Partner an Addict? How to Cope
When most couples get married, there are few negative thoughts that will enter their minds; least of all is substance abuse. Most believe that when they get married, they will generally have a good marriage. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and many marriages will suffer difficulties, including problems with substance abuse. People change over time, so it is not always something that can be predicted, but it can happen. Stresses build, life becomes darker and this is where substance abuse can enter. It may not be noticed at first, but it will be when it becomes a full addiction that changes the husband’s or wife’s behavior, attitude and personality. When this does happen, it can leave the spouse without the addiction unsure of what to do next.
Can they help their partner? Should they leave or would that be wrong? How much is too much to put up with? They love this person, they care for them, but they don’t think they can keep going through it; would it be selfish to leave the spouse who refuses to change and live their own life? These are just four examples of the many questions that enter one’s mind. There is also the fear that can play into the situation, depending on what they feel they have to lose if they leave their addicted spouse. The fear involved can also depend on how verbally and/or physically abusive the spouse with the addiction can be. There is also the concern of the children, if there are any, especially if they are younger children under the age of twelve because they are incredibly impressionable during their younger years.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Can they help their partner? Should they leave or would that be wrong? How much is too much to put up with? They love this person, they care for them, but they don’t think they can keep going through it; would it be selfish to leave the spouse who refuses to change and live their own life? These are just four examples of the many questions that enter one’s mind. There is also the fear that can play into the situation, depending on what they feel they have to lose if they leave their addicted spouse. The fear involved can also depend on how verbally and/or physically abusive the spouse with the addiction can be. There is also the concern of the children, if there are any, especially if they are younger children under the age of twelve because they are incredibly impressionable during their younger years.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Choices for Substance Abuse Rehab
There are various ways in which substance abuse and drug rehabilitation can be conducted. Some of the most common of these ways are:-
- Residential Treatment: Also known as in-house patient treatment, the person admits him- or herself into an institution where they are taken care of by other qualified medical professionals, mainly a hospital.
- Out-patient rehabilitation: This is a non-residential therapy which also provides counseling, relevant education and other restorative services.
- Support Groups: Like the Alcoholics Anonymous, these support groups are groups of people who are victims of common dependency. These groups can provide all the help and support that an addict needs.
- Sober Houses: Sober houses are generally drug and alcohol free institutions where an alcohol addict would spend time with others to overcome their dependency. Many sober houses are comfortable resorts or apartments where the dependent can reside with their entire families.
Substance abuse rehabilitation is most commonly seen in the case of celebrities and famous people. In fact, actors and celebrities go into rehabilitation according to their own free well off and on. Very few people, celebrities or otherwise, are sometimes ordered into rehabilitation by the law. Commonly, Driving Under Influence convicts are ordered to go into rehab with the Alcoholics Anonymous. In some cases, celebrities have accepted rehab instead of jail time.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
- Residential Treatment: Also known as in-house patient treatment, the person admits him- or herself into an institution where they are taken care of by other qualified medical professionals, mainly a hospital.
- Out-patient rehabilitation: This is a non-residential therapy which also provides counseling, relevant education and other restorative services.
- Support Groups: Like the Alcoholics Anonymous, these support groups are groups of people who are victims of common dependency. These groups can provide all the help and support that an addict needs.
- Sober Houses: Sober houses are generally drug and alcohol free institutions where an alcohol addict would spend time with others to overcome their dependency. Many sober houses are comfortable resorts or apartments where the dependent can reside with their entire families.
Substance abuse rehabilitation is most commonly seen in the case of celebrities and famous people. In fact, actors and celebrities go into rehabilitation according to their own free well off and on. Very few people, celebrities or otherwise, are sometimes ordered into rehabilitation by the law. Commonly, Driving Under Influence convicts are ordered to go into rehab with the Alcoholics Anonymous. In some cases, celebrities have accepted rehab instead of jail time.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Substance Abuse Rehabilitation; The Right Kind of Treatment
Substance abuse rehabilitation, also known as drug rehabilitation, is the common term used for the medical, psychological and therapeutic treatment for drug dependency. Substance abuse rehabilitation can be used to combat and cure almost any type of dependency, chief among them being alcohol, controlled drugs, nicotine and other prescription drugs. Controlled substances, alcohol and drugs dependency can be visible in almost any person, however there are some strata of society in which drugs dependency is more evident.
Perhaps the most common type of substance abuse is nicotine and alcohol. However, not many people dependent on alcohol or nicotine accept their dependency, and take a lot of time to actually go into rehabilitation.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Perhaps the most common type of substance abuse is nicotine and alcohol. However, not many people dependent on alcohol or nicotine accept their dependency, and take a lot of time to actually go into rehabilitation.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Does Hollistic Subtance Abuse Treatment Make Sense?
Another important question you should ask is whether you should opt for a holistic program. Holistic drug abuse programs are quite a rage in St. Louis at the moment, because they have milder medicines as compared to the other types of medications.
There are several aspects of holistic medicines that you should consider before you opt for a holistic program. For example, you should know that no holistic treatments are approved for the heroin treatment. Also, there would be very few or none insurance companies that would accept holistic treatment for substance abuse. Holistic treatments do not have a state backing, and therefore you would face various problems, in the unfortunate case of litigation arising from your treatment.
Contrary to popular belief, holistic treatments are quite expensive as compared to the other medical treatments. Therefore, only if you really want a milder treatment and do not have qualms about spending more money than the normal rate, you can opt for holistic treatments. Holistic treatments are available in St. Louis in almost all areas.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
There are several aspects of holistic medicines that you should consider before you opt for a holistic program. For example, you should know that no holistic treatments are approved for the heroin treatment. Also, there would be very few or none insurance companies that would accept holistic treatment for substance abuse. Holistic treatments do not have a state backing, and therefore you would face various problems, in the unfortunate case of litigation arising from your treatment.
Contrary to popular belief, holistic treatments are quite expensive as compared to the other medical treatments. Therefore, only if you really want a milder treatment and do not have qualms about spending more money than the normal rate, you can opt for holistic treatments. Holistic treatments are available in St. Louis in almost all areas.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Substance Abuse is MOre Difficult in Teens
Substance abuse is definitely a major problem in itself, but when the victim is a young person, the issue becomes much more serious. Today, there is a large number of treatment centers that cater especially to young people that are trying to come out of an addiction, but it is appalling to see how there are patients as young as ten and twelve years seeking admission to these centers. This clearly indicates that the age of people getting into chemical dependencies is going down. Moreover, these treatment centers claim that they face many more problems in doling out treatment to the younger patients than to adults. Here we discuss some of these problems that the treatment centers face in treating adolescent and teen substance abuse.
Ignorance in the Patients
The first problem that is encountered with young-age substance abuse is the fact that these patients are too immature to understand the gravity of their situation. They do not comprehend that the habit they are with is a life-threatening habit. Being young, they only see that they get temporal pleasure by chasing the addiction, without actually realizing the repercussions on various aspects of their life that the habit might cause.
Why do young people get into an addiction in the first place? Substance abuse resources reveal that most youngsters who pick up a chemical habit are under some or the other kind of emotional stress. This could be an overburdening pressure to compete in academics or sports or the feeling of neglect within their family. They may also succumb to the habit due to sheer pressure from their companions. If we see this, we realize that youngsters do not take up addiction for the sake of the addiction. For them, the addiction is a kind of a release from some perceived problem or a way to make their presence felt to the people around them.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Ignorance in the Patients
The first problem that is encountered with young-age substance abuse is the fact that these patients are too immature to understand the gravity of their situation. They do not comprehend that the habit they are with is a life-threatening habit. Being young, they only see that they get temporal pleasure by chasing the addiction, without actually realizing the repercussions on various aspects of their life that the habit might cause.
Why do young people get into an addiction in the first place? Substance abuse resources reveal that most youngsters who pick up a chemical habit are under some or the other kind of emotional stress. This could be an overburdening pressure to compete in academics or sports or the feeling of neglect within their family. They may also succumb to the habit due to sheer pressure from their companions. If we see this, we realize that youngsters do not take up addiction for the sake of the addiction. For them, the addiction is a kind of a release from some perceived problem or a way to make their presence felt to the people around them.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Is Substance Abuse a Mental Condition?
Is Substance Abuse a Mental Illness?
For this, we need to analyze the way the body works when a person starts using a substance for recreational purposes. This is how most of them work:-
When a person consumes the substance, the substance will send triggers to the nervous system of the body, which will then increase the secretion of some chemicals that are important for the feeling of happiness that the body experiences, most notably dopamine. The main draw during the initial abuse of the substance is this production of dopamine. The person is consuming the substance actually to condition the mind to release dopamine so that that feeling of pleasure can be experienced.
Now, as the person begins consuming more and more of the substance, the mental system of the person gets immunized and does not secrete as much dopamine as it did in the earlier instances. Consequently, the person begins stepping up the dosage of the substance. This is the beginning of the unbroken cycle of addiction; the person consumes a drug to make the mind happy, but the mind is dissatisfied with that particular amount and asks more of it.
If you consider this now, you will find that the urge for consuming the substance occurs right in the brain of the person. Though the person is physically consuming the substance, the part of the body that is asking for it is the brain and the nervous system. Hence, it does seem quite logical to pair substance abuse with mental illnesses.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
For this, we need to analyze the way the body works when a person starts using a substance for recreational purposes. This is how most of them work:-
When a person consumes the substance, the substance will send triggers to the nervous system of the body, which will then increase the secretion of some chemicals that are important for the feeling of happiness that the body experiences, most notably dopamine. The main draw during the initial abuse of the substance is this production of dopamine. The person is consuming the substance actually to condition the mind to release dopamine so that that feeling of pleasure can be experienced.
Now, as the person begins consuming more and more of the substance, the mental system of the person gets immunized and does not secrete as much dopamine as it did in the earlier instances. Consequently, the person begins stepping up the dosage of the substance. This is the beginning of the unbroken cycle of addiction; the person consumes a drug to make the mind happy, but the mind is dissatisfied with that particular amount and asks more of it.
If you consider this now, you will find that the urge for consuming the substance occurs right in the brain of the person. Though the person is physically consuming the substance, the part of the body that is asking for it is the brain and the nervous system. Hence, it does seem quite logical to pair substance abuse with mental illnesses.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers : The best Pennsylvania In-patient Drug Addiction Rehab Treatment Center, Adolescent Drug Rehab & Teen Drug Abuse Center in the Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, St Louis and Chicago areas : A proven 28 Day Treatment Program in our in-patient drug & alcohol abuse treatment center.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
AA and NA Sponsorships
Each member of Alcoholics Anonymous is a potential sponsor of a new member and should clearly recognize the obligations and duties of such responsibility.
The acceptance of an opportunity to take the A.A. plan to a sufferer of alcoholism entails very real and critically important responsibilities. Each member, undertaking the sponsorship of a fellow alcoholic, must remember that he is offering what is frequently the last chance of rehabilitation, sanity or maybe life itself.
Happiness, Health, Security, Sanity and Life of human beings are the things we hold in balance when we sponsor an alcoholic.
No member among us is wise enough to develop a sponsorship program that can be successfully applied in every case. In the following pages, however, we have outlined a suggested procedure, which supplemented by the member's own experience, has proven successful.
No one reaps full benefit from any fellowship he is connected with unless he wholeheartedly engages in its important activities. The expansion of Alcoholics Anonymous to wider fields of greater benefit to more people results directly from the addition of new, worth-while members or associates.
Any A.A. who has not experienced the joys and satisfaction of helping another alcoholic regain his place in life has not yet fully realized the complete benefits of this fellowship. On the other hand, it must be clearly kept in mind that the only possible reason for bringing an alcoholic into A.A. is for that person's gain. Sponsorship should never be undertaken to -
1. Increase the size of the group.
2. For personal satisfaction and glory.
3. Because the sponsor feels it his duty to re-make the world.
Until an individual has assumed the responsibility of setting a shaking, helpless human being back on the path toward becoming a healthy useful, happy member of society, he has not enjoyed the complete thrill of being an A.A.
The acceptance of an opportunity to take the A.A. plan to a sufferer of alcoholism entails very real and critically important responsibilities. Each member, undertaking the sponsorship of a fellow alcoholic, must remember that he is offering what is frequently the last chance of rehabilitation, sanity or maybe life itself.
Happiness, Health, Security, Sanity and Life of human beings are the things we hold in balance when we sponsor an alcoholic.
No member among us is wise enough to develop a sponsorship program that can be successfully applied in every case. In the following pages, however, we have outlined a suggested procedure, which supplemented by the member's own experience, has proven successful.
No one reaps full benefit from any fellowship he is connected with unless he wholeheartedly engages in its important activities. The expansion of Alcoholics Anonymous to wider fields of greater benefit to more people results directly from the addition of new, worth-while members or associates.
Any A.A. who has not experienced the joys and satisfaction of helping another alcoholic regain his place in life has not yet fully realized the complete benefits of this fellowship. On the other hand, it must be clearly kept in mind that the only possible reason for bringing an alcoholic into A.A. is for that person's gain. Sponsorship should never be undertaken to -
1. Increase the size of the group.
2. For personal satisfaction and glory.
3. Because the sponsor feels it his duty to re-make the world.
Until an individual has assumed the responsibility of setting a shaking, helpless human being back on the path toward becoming a healthy useful, happy member of society, he has not enjoyed the complete thrill of being an A.A.
Tips for Successful Addiction Recovery
The following represent a series of tips and things to consider before, during after an individual has engaged in a potential drug rehab program.
•Don't be afraid to ask for help. Many times, individuals who are caught in the depths of drug addiction will not reach out to family and friends for help. Whether this is because of feelings of shame or the lack of an admission that they have a serious problem, many will not see the people who can help them the most are standing right in front of their eyes.
•Understand that detox is NOT recovery. Some detox programs will make big promises about the effectiveness of their detoxification programs. And while drug detox is a crucial element of addiction treatment, it only addresses the physical component of drug dependence. For most people drug addiction is a psychological condition that must be treated by the counseling that forms the core of a rehab program.
•Work with the program, not against it. Many recovering addicts going through drug rehab expend a tremendous amount of energy rebelling against the very program that is trying to help them. Individuals are encouraged to listen to the advice of their counselors and allow the program into their lives so that they may begin to heal.
•Open up to others in the program. Group therapy and community time during rehab is an outstanding way to remove the isolation caused by drug addiction and experience real breakthroughs. Listen to other recovering addicts tell their stories is an important way to come to the understanding that other people are going through like circumstances.
•Don't get discouraged. Relapse is a common occurrence among those attempting to overcome drug addiction. And while it can be discouraging, it is important to stay healthy and get back into a drug rehab program as soon as possible for another attempt.
•Don't be afraid to ask for help. Many times, individuals who are caught in the depths of drug addiction will not reach out to family and friends for help. Whether this is because of feelings of shame or the lack of an admission that they have a serious problem, many will not see the people who can help them the most are standing right in front of their eyes.
•Understand that detox is NOT recovery. Some detox programs will make big promises about the effectiveness of their detoxification programs. And while drug detox is a crucial element of addiction treatment, it only addresses the physical component of drug dependence. For most people drug addiction is a psychological condition that must be treated by the counseling that forms the core of a rehab program.
•Work with the program, not against it. Many recovering addicts going through drug rehab expend a tremendous amount of energy rebelling against the very program that is trying to help them. Individuals are encouraged to listen to the advice of their counselors and allow the program into their lives so that they may begin to heal.
•Open up to others in the program. Group therapy and community time during rehab is an outstanding way to remove the isolation caused by drug addiction and experience real breakthroughs. Listen to other recovering addicts tell their stories is an important way to come to the understanding that other people are going through like circumstances.
•Don't get discouraged. Relapse is a common occurrence among those attempting to overcome drug addiction. And while it can be discouraging, it is important to stay healthy and get back into a drug rehab program as soon as possible for another attempt.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
More Rules for Sober Living
5.Connect with the Natural World. Before you attended that drug rehab facility, you lost touch with not only with yourself but with your environment as well. However you choose to reconnect with nature, whether it is through hiking, eating organically, or even simply recycling, the greater chance you have of remaining clean. There is so much healing power in a morning walk with your dog, watching a sunset, or nurturing your body with whole foods that you would do yourself a disservice to return to the false high and guilt associated with drugs.
6.Take Care of Your Stuff. This includes your space and everything in it. Keep your house neat and organized. You may have gotten practice keeping your space clean in the drug rehab facility; however, take this thought one step further and apply it to how you spend your time and your energy. Think of this as preventative maintenance. Change the oil in your car so your car is less likely to break down and you are less likely to react negatively to a broken down car. Pay your bills so you don’t get behind and financial stress does not build, which could lead to all sorts of triggers. Remember the more your “stuff” is in order, the less likely you are to relapse over these types of triggers.
7.Nurture Your Spirit. This isn’t about believing in God or joining a religion. This is about seeing yourself as a spiritual being – one who can create, one who has thoughts and ideas, one who has the desire to survive. Whatever your beliefs, you are a being with ideas. Now that you have completed the drug rehab facility, your mind is free from chemicals that have hindered your ability to create your life. If you see yourself as an artist, then go buy some paint. If you seek peace in your psyche, join a yoga class or learn meditation. If you feel connected to your spirit by going to church on Sundays, then go. The more you turn your positive thoughts into tangible creations, the less likely you are to crave a drug-induced state.
8.Embrace All. This is a huge concept and can take on any form that works for you. Simply look at not only yourself but the world around you and your role in it. It is important to grasp that you and this world you live in are immeasurably great, that you are not bound by finite ideas, or limited in what you can achieve. Embrace yourself. Embrace life. Embrace all that there is, and you will find that drugs no longer have a place in your world and you will enjoy your drug free life.
6.Take Care of Your Stuff. This includes your space and everything in it. Keep your house neat and organized. You may have gotten practice keeping your space clean in the drug rehab facility; however, take this thought one step further and apply it to how you spend your time and your energy. Think of this as preventative maintenance. Change the oil in your car so your car is less likely to break down and you are less likely to react negatively to a broken down car. Pay your bills so you don’t get behind and financial stress does not build, which could lead to all sorts of triggers. Remember the more your “stuff” is in order, the less likely you are to relapse over these types of triggers.
7.Nurture Your Spirit. This isn’t about believing in God or joining a religion. This is about seeing yourself as a spiritual being – one who can create, one who has thoughts and ideas, one who has the desire to survive. Whatever your beliefs, you are a being with ideas. Now that you have completed the drug rehab facility, your mind is free from chemicals that have hindered your ability to create your life. If you see yourself as an artist, then go buy some paint. If you seek peace in your psyche, join a yoga class or learn meditation. If you feel connected to your spirit by going to church on Sundays, then go. The more you turn your positive thoughts into tangible creations, the less likely you are to crave a drug-induced state.
8.Embrace All. This is a huge concept and can take on any form that works for you. Simply look at not only yourself but the world around you and your role in it. It is important to grasp that you and this world you live in are immeasurably great, that you are not bound by finite ideas, or limited in what you can achieve. Embrace yourself. Embrace life. Embrace all that there is, and you will find that drugs no longer have a place in your world and you will enjoy your drug free life.
Treating Alcoholism
Alcoholism and alcohol addiction are often seen as less serious than drug addiction due to their social acceptance. However, alcohol addiction is extremely serious and often life threatening, not only because of the damage done to the liver and brain, but also because of the possibility of automobile or other accidents. Unfortunately, most people do not address alcoholism with alcohol treatment or other addiction help until the addict is in a crisis, or commits a violent act.
For the alcoholic, admitting that they need alcohol addiction treatment is difficult. They may feel that they will be outcast from their social groups, or that they are weak. However painful this may be to confront, the addict must admit that he has a problem. At the very least, the addict must recognize that alcohol is negatively affecting his or her life, and continued use and abuse will make things worse. Once that is done, the person must be willing to seek and accept help from an alcohol addiction center or to seek out professional alcohol addiction treatment.
Alcohol treatment centers with programs based on the social education model are highly successful. People abusing alcohol are not told they are bad or powerless to alcohol. Instead, they are provided with the knowledge necessary to address the issues that led them to abuse alcohol. They learn how to deal with these issues in a positive and constructive manner, rather than avoid them and drink to make it all go away.
Receiving treatment at one of many alcohol treatment centers is best done in a safe and stable place that is supportive and conducive to recovery. The person should not be allowed to blame his or her issues on other people or situations for their addiction to alcohol. Only when one can take full responsibility for their actions will they be able to accept change and decide to live a new life
For the alcoholic, admitting that they need alcohol addiction treatment is difficult. They may feel that they will be outcast from their social groups, or that they are weak. However painful this may be to confront, the addict must admit that he has a problem. At the very least, the addict must recognize that alcohol is negatively affecting his or her life, and continued use and abuse will make things worse. Once that is done, the person must be willing to seek and accept help from an alcohol addiction center or to seek out professional alcohol addiction treatment.
Alcohol treatment centers with programs based on the social education model are highly successful. People abusing alcohol are not told they are bad or powerless to alcohol. Instead, they are provided with the knowledge necessary to address the issues that led them to abuse alcohol. They learn how to deal with these issues in a positive and constructive manner, rather than avoid them and drink to make it all go away.
Receiving treatment at one of many alcohol treatment centers is best done in a safe and stable place that is supportive and conducive to recovery. The person should not be allowed to blame his or her issues on other people or situations for their addiction to alcohol. Only when one can take full responsibility for their actions will they be able to accept change and decide to live a new life
Addiction Explained in Simple Terms
No one intends to become a drug addict or alcoholic. Our experiences show that the drug addict or alcoholic was usually an intelligent and often creative person with much hope for the future.
However, they were unable to deal effectively with life’s problems and turned to drugs or alcohol as a means of dealing with unwanted situations.
The person usually takes drugs because they attempt to compensate for some personal deficiency or life situation. They may be depressed, in pain or incapable of dealing with a loss of a loved one or extreme circumstance. It could also be as simple as a need to fit in and make friends, or a way to lose weight. Regardless of the reason, the person begins to seek “help” in the form of drugs or alcohol.
Drugs are essentially a pain-killer. They lessen emotional and physical pain and provide the user with a temporary escape from problems. When a person is unable to cope with something in life and take drugs as a result, they feel they have found a way to deal with the problem.
How Drug and Alcohol Addiction Gets Worse
The more a person uses drugs or excessive alcohol, the worse the problem becomes. So they continue the “solution” for their problems, more drugs. Soon new problems are created by drug use. The person feels the need to use consistently, and will do anything to get high.
They are now addicted. They become difficult to communicate with, withdrawn and begin to exhibit the strange behavior associated with being on drugs. The more the person uses to try to counter this effect, the more desperate he becomes.
Their use begins to affect their personal relationships, their job, their bank account, and anything of previous value to the addict. Now the person’s entire focus becomes centered on using drugs and getting more drugs, regardless of the cost. They sacrifice everything to avoid the pain of withdrawal, the guilt of what they have done and the problems they have been running from.
Average Drug Addict Downward Spiral
At this point, the average drug user does one of three things:
1.Continues using drugs and becomes more and more lost, unhealthy and degraded until he eventually becomes homeless or dead.
2.Gets arrested for some drug-related activity and goes to jail or prison.
3.Attempt to quit drugs in any one of a variety of ways. He may try to stop on his own, or go to a drug addiction treatment center or program. Sadly, the success rate of traditional alcohol and drug addiction treatment is not high and most addicts continue to relapse. This destroys the addict’s confidence and leads him to feel he will remain a slave to drugs forever.
However, they were unable to deal effectively with life’s problems and turned to drugs or alcohol as a means of dealing with unwanted situations.
The person usually takes drugs because they attempt to compensate for some personal deficiency or life situation. They may be depressed, in pain or incapable of dealing with a loss of a loved one or extreme circumstance. It could also be as simple as a need to fit in and make friends, or a way to lose weight. Regardless of the reason, the person begins to seek “help” in the form of drugs or alcohol.
Drugs are essentially a pain-killer. They lessen emotional and physical pain and provide the user with a temporary escape from problems. When a person is unable to cope with something in life and take drugs as a result, they feel they have found a way to deal with the problem.
How Drug and Alcohol Addiction Gets Worse
The more a person uses drugs or excessive alcohol, the worse the problem becomes. So they continue the “solution” for their problems, more drugs. Soon new problems are created by drug use. The person feels the need to use consistently, and will do anything to get high.
They are now addicted. They become difficult to communicate with, withdrawn and begin to exhibit the strange behavior associated with being on drugs. The more the person uses to try to counter this effect, the more desperate he becomes.
Their use begins to affect their personal relationships, their job, their bank account, and anything of previous value to the addict. Now the person’s entire focus becomes centered on using drugs and getting more drugs, regardless of the cost. They sacrifice everything to avoid the pain of withdrawal, the guilt of what they have done and the problems they have been running from.
Average Drug Addict Downward Spiral
At this point, the average drug user does one of three things:
1.Continues using drugs and becomes more and more lost, unhealthy and degraded until he eventually becomes homeless or dead.
2.Gets arrested for some drug-related activity and goes to jail or prison.
3.Attempt to quit drugs in any one of a variety of ways. He may try to stop on his own, or go to a drug addiction treatment center or program. Sadly, the success rate of traditional alcohol and drug addiction treatment is not high and most addicts continue to relapse. This destroys the addict’s confidence and leads him to feel he will remain a slave to drugs forever.
Prevent Relapse
The Cycle of Quitting, Withdrawal, Craving And Relapse
When the addict initially tries to quit, cells in the brain that have become used to large amounts of these metabolites are now forced to deal with much decreased amounts. Even as the withdrawal symptoms subside, the brain “demands” that the addict give it more of the drug. This is called drug craving.
Craving is an extremely powerful urge and can cause a person to create all kinds of “reasons” they should begin using drugs again. He is now trapped in an endless cycle of trying to quit, craving, relapse and fear of withdrawal.
Eventually, the brain cells will again become used to having lowered drug metabolites. But, because deposits of drug metabolites release back into the bloodstream from fatty tissues for years, craving and relapse remain a cause for concern.
Left unhandled, the presence of metabolites even in microscopic amounts cause the brain to react as if the addict had again actually taken the drug and can set up craving and relapse even after years of sobriety.
Handling the Drug Metabolites
Clearbrook utilizes a combination of exercise, induced sweating in a sauna, and nutritional supplements to eliminate the traces of drugs, or metabolites, stored in the fatty tissue.
No drugs of any kind are used at Cleabrook, such as “addiction substitute drugs” like methadone.
The results of this phase of the program are:
•Reduction or elimination of drug and alcohol cravings.
•Reduction or elimination of many symptoms associated with drug addiction and alcoholism. These can include depression, irritability, and fatigue.
•Ability to think more clearly.
•Improved memory and attention span.
•Increased energy.
•Increased sense of well being.
•Enthusiasm toward Life.
Handling the “Biochemical Personality”
After successfully eliminating drug traces from the body, we move through a series of specialized study courses that complement and expand on each other to help the addict recognize the old addiction life-style and thought processes.
These unique cognitive and objective therapies are followed by life skills training, delivered in easily understood phases designed to complement and expand on each other.
The drug rehabilitation program is complete when the former addict recognizes and accepts responsibility for old habit patterns and “reasons why”. The person’s relationships with and understanding of himself, his family, friends and environment are fully examined and rehabilitated.
On the person’s own self-determinism, and with no physical or mental “hooks” into past cravings and behavior, he or she is no longer an addict and has regained his or her own true nature.
When the addict initially tries to quit, cells in the brain that have become used to large amounts of these metabolites are now forced to deal with much decreased amounts. Even as the withdrawal symptoms subside, the brain “demands” that the addict give it more of the drug. This is called drug craving.
Craving is an extremely powerful urge and can cause a person to create all kinds of “reasons” they should begin using drugs again. He is now trapped in an endless cycle of trying to quit, craving, relapse and fear of withdrawal.
Eventually, the brain cells will again become used to having lowered drug metabolites. But, because deposits of drug metabolites release back into the bloodstream from fatty tissues for years, craving and relapse remain a cause for concern.
Left unhandled, the presence of metabolites even in microscopic amounts cause the brain to react as if the addict had again actually taken the drug and can set up craving and relapse even after years of sobriety.
Handling the Drug Metabolites
Clearbrook utilizes a combination of exercise, induced sweating in a sauna, and nutritional supplements to eliminate the traces of drugs, or metabolites, stored in the fatty tissue.
No drugs of any kind are used at Cleabrook, such as “addiction substitute drugs” like methadone.
The results of this phase of the program are:
•Reduction or elimination of drug and alcohol cravings.
•Reduction or elimination of many symptoms associated with drug addiction and alcoholism. These can include depression, irritability, and fatigue.
•Ability to think more clearly.
•Improved memory and attention span.
•Increased energy.
•Increased sense of well being.
•Enthusiasm toward Life.
Handling the “Biochemical Personality”
After successfully eliminating drug traces from the body, we move through a series of specialized study courses that complement and expand on each other to help the addict recognize the old addiction life-style and thought processes.
These unique cognitive and objective therapies are followed by life skills training, delivered in easily understood phases designed to complement and expand on each other.
The drug rehabilitation program is complete when the former addict recognizes and accepts responsibility for old habit patterns and “reasons why”. The person’s relationships with and understanding of himself, his family, friends and environment are fully examined and rehabilitated.
On the person’s own self-determinism, and with no physical or mental “hooks” into past cravings and behavior, he or she is no longer an addict and has regained his or her own true nature.
Why Do People Relapse?
Why Addicts Cannot Stop Using Drugs or Alcohol
Here is some vital information that you need to know in order to fully understand drug and alcohol addiction and to prevent addiction relapses. Once you understand addiction, you will see how simply it can be overcome using the CleabrookDrug Rehabilitation Program. It would be best if you could read this section several times to get a full understanding of the cause of relapse. There are two basic causes for continued addiction;
1.The first of these is the long term effects of drug residuals in the body. The Mental and Physical cravings caused by drug residues which remain in the body, even long after a person quits using the drug, simply drives the addict to use more of the drug. This cause of continued addiction is thoroughly addressed and treated with great succes.
2.The second of these causes is the “Biochemical Personality”. This is the “way of thinking” that is caused by drug addiction and the lifestyle an addict adopts to get drugs and live with a drug habit. This cause of continued addiction is also specifically addressed with great success.
These two situations are linked with one feeding the other, and both must be recognized and dealt with before a person can fully be free from the addictive effects of drugs.
Drug Residues: What they are and how they work
The addict can “just say no” a thousand times, but it only takes saying “yes” one time to start the cycle of addiction again.
Several decades ago, the biochemical aspect of drug addiction were discovered. This biochemical breakthrough has led to the most successful approach to rehabilitation in existence.
In essence, when a person uses drugs over a period of time, the body becomes unable to completely eliminate all traces of them. The traces that remain are stored in the fatty tissues. Called “drug metabolites”, these traces re-enter the system and trigger cravings for the drug along with the “Biochemical Personality” traits that are a non-optimum way of life.
Left unhandled, these manifestations will haunt a person for years even if they have sobered up. Left untreated, they can trigger a serious relapse.
These unresolved symptoms and manifestations, whether physical or mental in origin, create an underlying low-level type of stress which cannot be completely ignored by the addict. The addict can “just say no” a thousand times, but it only takes him saying “yes” one time to start the cycle of addiction again.
Drug Residues Remain in Fatty Tissues
Drugs are broken down in the liver into substances called metabolites. Although removed rapidly from the blood stream, metabolites can become trapped in the fatty tissues. The one thing in common—and the problem that needs to be addressed—is that these drug residues remain trapped for years.
Tissues in our bodies that are high in fats are turned over very slowly. When they are turned over, the stored drug metabolites are released into the blood stream and reactivate the same brain centers as if the person actually took the drug. The former addict now experiences restimulation of a drug episode (or “flashback”) and subsequent drug craving. This is common in the months after an addict quits and can continue to occur for years, even decades.
Here is some vital information that you need to know in order to fully understand drug and alcohol addiction and to prevent addiction relapses. Once you understand addiction, you will see how simply it can be overcome using the CleabrookDrug Rehabilitation Program. It would be best if you could read this section several times to get a full understanding of the cause of relapse. There are two basic causes for continued addiction;
1.The first of these is the long term effects of drug residuals in the body. The Mental and Physical cravings caused by drug residues which remain in the body, even long after a person quits using the drug, simply drives the addict to use more of the drug. This cause of continued addiction is thoroughly addressed and treated with great succes.
2.The second of these causes is the “Biochemical Personality”. This is the “way of thinking” that is caused by drug addiction and the lifestyle an addict adopts to get drugs and live with a drug habit. This cause of continued addiction is also specifically addressed with great success.
These two situations are linked with one feeding the other, and both must be recognized and dealt with before a person can fully be free from the addictive effects of drugs.
Drug Residues: What they are and how they work
The addict can “just say no” a thousand times, but it only takes saying “yes” one time to start the cycle of addiction again.
Several decades ago, the biochemical aspect of drug addiction were discovered. This biochemical breakthrough has led to the most successful approach to rehabilitation in existence.
In essence, when a person uses drugs over a period of time, the body becomes unable to completely eliminate all traces of them. The traces that remain are stored in the fatty tissues. Called “drug metabolites”, these traces re-enter the system and trigger cravings for the drug along with the “Biochemical Personality” traits that are a non-optimum way of life.
Left unhandled, these manifestations will haunt a person for years even if they have sobered up. Left untreated, they can trigger a serious relapse.
These unresolved symptoms and manifestations, whether physical or mental in origin, create an underlying low-level type of stress which cannot be completely ignored by the addict. The addict can “just say no” a thousand times, but it only takes him saying “yes” one time to start the cycle of addiction again.
Drug Residues Remain in Fatty Tissues
Drugs are broken down in the liver into substances called metabolites. Although removed rapidly from the blood stream, metabolites can become trapped in the fatty tissues. The one thing in common—and the problem that needs to be addressed—is that these drug residues remain trapped for years.
Tissues in our bodies that are high in fats are turned over very slowly. When they are turned over, the stored drug metabolites are released into the blood stream and reactivate the same brain centers as if the person actually took the drug. The former addict now experiences restimulation of a drug episode (or “flashback”) and subsequent drug craving. This is common in the months after an addict quits and can continue to occur for years, even decades.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)