The stories we hear in meetings often shock us. It seems hard to believe that some members could have harmed themselves in such ways. We hear about arrests, bankruptcies, loss of family and home, lost jobs, violence, jail, physical injury – the list goes on. Most of us said to ourselves, "I never was that bad. Maybe I don't really belong here."
Our sponsors and fellow members quickly straightened us out. We were comparing our histories with other members. We were told to identify with the stories, not compare. Some of us had been lucky that worse things hadn't happened to us while we were using. We were reminded those things hadn't happened to us "yet." If we relapsed, the "yets" were waiting.
Today I'll remember to identify, not compare. I don't want to relapse and go through THE YETS.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers are drug and alcohol treatment centers that focus on plans for relapse prevention.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
How do we change? People, Places, and Thins
When we finally make the decision to get help for our alcohol/drug addiction we may be too overwhelmed to see it in the beginning but our life really changes. This change is definitely for the better but it’s hard for us to see because we have never experienced anything like this. When we walk into rehab or the rooms for the first time, we are a bit blinded by our fear, expectations and apprehension.
Even though all these feelings and emotions are emerging in us when we first get sober, we must address one of the most important things as a newcomer; people, places and things.
If we’ve been to rehab we’ve heard this notion before. What it means is, our lives need to change in order to stay sober and emotionally healthy.
When we were using, most of our surroundings were not ones where we could stay sane and well. Sometimes we’ve felt like it would be too hard to change our people, places and things. That is our fear talking; fear of change itself, fear of loneliness, fear of failure (can we make it without all of these people, places and things?), even fear of finding out who we really are. We felt like we would be all alone if we changed. We felt like we would have nothing if we changed. It’s actually the opposite. The truth is the people who truly love you and the people you’ve met in A.A./N.A. are the ones who will support you and be there for you no matter what may come.
In case you didn’t know:
In 2009, the number of people ages 12 or older who needed treatment for an alcohol use problem was 19.3 million. That is 7.7 percent of the population 12 or older.
Even though all these feelings and emotions are emerging in us when we first get sober, we must address one of the most important things as a newcomer; people, places and things.
If we’ve been to rehab we’ve heard this notion before. What it means is, our lives need to change in order to stay sober and emotionally healthy.
When we were using, most of our surroundings were not ones where we could stay sane and well. Sometimes we’ve felt like it would be too hard to change our people, places and things. That is our fear talking; fear of change itself, fear of loneliness, fear of failure (can we make it without all of these people, places and things?), even fear of finding out who we really are. We felt like we would be all alone if we changed. We felt like we would have nothing if we changed. It’s actually the opposite. The truth is the people who truly love you and the people you’ve met in A.A./N.A. are the ones who will support you and be there for you no matter what may come.
In case you didn’t know:
In 2009, the number of people ages 12 or older who needed treatment for an alcohol use problem was 19.3 million. That is 7.7 percent of the population 12 or older.
The First Step
We admitted we were powerless over alcohol-that our lives had become unmanageable.
This is how it starts in the rooms of alcoholics anonymous. The word we appears two times in the first three words. What a comfort that brings when the fog clears and we realize that of ourselves we are nothing and that with the help of others we can recover from this state of hopelessness. For so many years many of us have been in the prison of alcoholism and never knowing why are lives were shaped the way they were. The first step if taken with 100% belief and acceptance can start the road to a purposeful and meaningful life. It can get us out of that prison, allow us to move on to the remaining eleven steps. Many times in the rooms of AA you will hear there are no must dos. To stay sober you must not drink. That first drink is the drink that starts the ball rolling down hill not the last one.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers is an alcohol rehab in Pennsylvania. We are offering help and promising hope.
This is how it starts in the rooms of alcoholics anonymous. The word we appears two times in the first three words. What a comfort that brings when the fog clears and we realize that of ourselves we are nothing and that with the help of others we can recover from this state of hopelessness. For so many years many of us have been in the prison of alcoholism and never knowing why are lives were shaped the way they were. The first step if taken with 100% belief and acceptance can start the road to a purposeful and meaningful life. It can get us out of that prison, allow us to move on to the remaining eleven steps. Many times in the rooms of AA you will hear there are no must dos. To stay sober you must not drink. That first drink is the drink that starts the ball rolling down hill not the last one.
Clearbrook Treatment Centers is an alcohol rehab in Pennsylvania. We are offering help and promising hope.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Reflection on the Third Tradition
The Third Tradition of Alcoholics Anonymous states, “The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.” This tradition is especially important for the newcomer. Certain groups have certain requirements/criteria for example, sports teams, social groups, and so on. Some of us may have been members of different groups in our lives. Many of us have felt like we’re different and we don’t belong even if we were part of a team or a group.
A.A./N.A. is not like most groups. When we finally admit that we have a problem we feel scared, lonely, confused. The fellowship and the Third Tradition allow us to walk into the rooms, no strings attached and no judgment. Because you have a desire to stop drinking, you are accepted. We are welcomed into the 12-Step program because we have surrendered or at the very least desire that surrender that everyone talks about.
Maybe we went to drug/alcohol rehab and so the initial apprehensiveness isn’t as intense. If we didn’t go to treatment, the first time experience is a little more nerve-racking.
Yet when we walk through those doors and even though we are nervous, anxious, terrified and don’t really know what to expect, we see this group of people who are happy. They are comfortable. They are welcoming. They are free. There is a sense of family that emanates from everyone. Just by being there, we are a part of the group. For the first time in our lives, we truly belong.
“Tradition Three insured that we would get what we need—each other.” (A.A. Daily Reflections pg. 33)
A.A./N.A. is not like most groups. When we finally admit that we have a problem we feel scared, lonely, confused. The fellowship and the Third Tradition allow us to walk into the rooms, no strings attached and no judgment. Because you have a desire to stop drinking, you are accepted. We are welcomed into the 12-Step program because we have surrendered or at the very least desire that surrender that everyone talks about.
Maybe we went to drug/alcohol rehab and so the initial apprehensiveness isn’t as intense. If we didn’t go to treatment, the first time experience is a little more nerve-racking.
Yet when we walk through those doors and even though we are nervous, anxious, terrified and don’t really know what to expect, we see this group of people who are happy. They are comfortable. They are welcoming. They are free. There is a sense of family that emanates from everyone. Just by being there, we are a part of the group. For the first time in our lives, we truly belong.
“Tradition Three insured that we would get what we need—each other.” (A.A. Daily Reflections pg. 33)
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Clearbrook Treatment Centers- Oxycontin Drug Rehab
Oxycontin is one of the most highly abused prescription drugs in the Pennsylvania. After going through FDA approval, the drug was first introduced into the market back in 1995. The use of oxycontin is intended for terminally ill patients, such as those suffering from cancer and other types of chronic diseases. The drug is considered to be a powerful pain killer that is widely used in the world of clinical medicine. However, the strong high that oxycontin has the ability to invoke makes it both physically and mentally addictive to those who misuse and abuse the drug. This is why oxycontin addiction in Pennsylvania has escalated dramatically since its initial inception in the 1990's.
Why is Treatment Necessary?
If oxycontin is a prescription drug, why do individuals need treatment to stop consumption? Those who are addicted to oxycontin need to seek treatment for their dependence due to the harmful effects and serious consequences that can result from continued abuse. There are both short-term and long-term effects caused by oxycontin drug abuse. The following are a few examples of each:
* Respiratory problems
* Nausea
* Dizziness
* Headaches
* Weakness
* Kidney disease
* Cardiovascular damage
* Liver disease
* Arthritis
Unfortunately, becoming addicted to oxycontin can happen to just about anyone and similar to other types of drug addiction, withdrawal can prove to be extremely difficult. Some common withdrawal symptoms associated with oxycontin addiction include insomnia, vomiting, muscle and bone pain, restlessness and tremors. Those who suddenly stop usage also put themselves in danger of experiencing seizures and convulsions, which can result in untimely death. In addition to the physical consequences, oxycontin abusers can also experience deteriorating relationships, loss of employment, financial difficulties and legal issues as a result of their addiction.
Oxycontin Rehab Options in Pennsylvania
When it comes to oxycontin rehab in Pennsylvania, treatment usually begins with a medically supervised Pennsylvania drug detox program. During this process, physicians in the oxycontin rehab center in Pennsylvania aim to reduce and sometimes eradicate the feelings and symptoms associated with oxycontin withdrawal. Although eliminating the symptoms all together is rare due to the nature of oxycontin addiction, detoxification helps to make them more manageable.
Detox is typically followed by residential treatment programs. Once addicts are medically stable, residential addiction treatment provides them with support as they continue to fight their addiction and cravings with oxycontin. Some of the treatments included in this type of oxycontin rehab program include individual, group and family therapy sessions. Counseling helps addicts to uncover and resolve their emotional dependence on oxycontin.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
Choosing the right treatment for oxycontin addiction is dependent on the severity of illness, which tends to vary on a case by case basis. Residential treatment is typically three weeks long, but can often be longer if necessary. There are also several types of oxycontin rehabilitation centers where addicts can receive treatment; however the choice should be made on individual needs. The following are some examples:
* Free-standing residential treatment center
* Hospital based oxycontin rehab facility in Pennsylvania
* Long-term residential treatment center
* Extended care programs
* Outpatient addiction treatment
* Partial hospital/day treatment programs
* Therapeutic treatment centers
* Teen programs for oxycontin rehab addiction
Thank you to www.treatment4addiction.com for information.
Why is Treatment Necessary?
If oxycontin is a prescription drug, why do individuals need treatment to stop consumption? Those who are addicted to oxycontin need to seek treatment for their dependence due to the harmful effects and serious consequences that can result from continued abuse. There are both short-term and long-term effects caused by oxycontin drug abuse. The following are a few examples of each:
* Respiratory problems
* Nausea
* Dizziness
* Headaches
* Weakness
* Kidney disease
* Cardiovascular damage
* Liver disease
* Arthritis
Unfortunately, becoming addicted to oxycontin can happen to just about anyone and similar to other types of drug addiction, withdrawal can prove to be extremely difficult. Some common withdrawal symptoms associated with oxycontin addiction include insomnia, vomiting, muscle and bone pain, restlessness and tremors. Those who suddenly stop usage also put themselves in danger of experiencing seizures and convulsions, which can result in untimely death. In addition to the physical consequences, oxycontin abusers can also experience deteriorating relationships, loss of employment, financial difficulties and legal issues as a result of their addiction.
Oxycontin Rehab Options in Pennsylvania
When it comes to oxycontin rehab in Pennsylvania, treatment usually begins with a medically supervised Pennsylvania drug detox program. During this process, physicians in the oxycontin rehab center in Pennsylvania aim to reduce and sometimes eradicate the feelings and symptoms associated with oxycontin withdrawal. Although eliminating the symptoms all together is rare due to the nature of oxycontin addiction, detoxification helps to make them more manageable.
Detox is typically followed by residential treatment programs. Once addicts are medically stable, residential addiction treatment provides them with support as they continue to fight their addiction and cravings with oxycontin. Some of the treatments included in this type of oxycontin rehab program include individual, group and family therapy sessions. Counseling helps addicts to uncover and resolve their emotional dependence on oxycontin.
Which Treatment is Right for You?
Choosing the right treatment for oxycontin addiction is dependent on the severity of illness, which tends to vary on a case by case basis. Residential treatment is typically three weeks long, but can often be longer if necessary. There are also several types of oxycontin rehabilitation centers where addicts can receive treatment; however the choice should be made on individual needs. The following are some examples:
* Free-standing residential treatment center
* Hospital based oxycontin rehab facility in Pennsylvania
* Long-term residential treatment center
* Extended care programs
* Outpatient addiction treatment
* Partial hospital/day treatment programs
* Therapeutic treatment centers
* Teen programs for oxycontin rehab addiction
Thank you to www.treatment4addiction.com for information.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Clearbrook Treatment Centers-Prescription Drug Abuse Rehab
The abuse of prescription drugs in Pennsylvania is a growing problem. Most people take prescription drugs safely, although approximately 48 million people ages 12 and above (20% of the United States population) have used prescription drugs for non medical reasons.
There are three common categories of prescription drugs.
1. Opioids-often used to treat pain
2. Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants-used to treat sleep disorders & anxiety.
3. Stimulants-used to treat narcolepsy and ADHD
These drugs are easily accessible considering people with legitimate needs are using them. There is a trend with adolescents appropriating the prescription drugs from their parents, other family members and friends. You can find them in almost any medicine cabinet. In addition to the increasing number of medicines being prescribed for health issues, some medications can be easily obtained from the Internet. Online pharmacies make it possible for abusers without the proper documentation to get a prescription (which is illegal).
It is also not uncommon for over-the-counter drugs to be absued. Cough suppressants, antihistamines and sleep aids are just an example of drugs easily accessible and easily abused.
The result of abusing prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs are: confusion, sedation, coma, seizures, decreased respiration, respiratory depression, withdrawal and death.
If you or someone you know is using prescription drugs, please seek help. Clearbrook Treatment Centers is the leading drug rehab in Pennsylvania. We have been helping adults, adolescents and families reach sobriety/recovery. For more information on Clearbrook and the signs and symptoms of drug abuse, go to www.clearbrookinc.com
Source-nida.nih.org2001
There are three common categories of prescription drugs.
1. Opioids-often used to treat pain
2. Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants-used to treat sleep disorders & anxiety.
3. Stimulants-used to treat narcolepsy and ADHD
These drugs are easily accessible considering people with legitimate needs are using them. There is a trend with adolescents appropriating the prescription drugs from their parents, other family members and friends. You can find them in almost any medicine cabinet. In addition to the increasing number of medicines being prescribed for health issues, some medications can be easily obtained from the Internet. Online pharmacies make it possible for abusers without the proper documentation to get a prescription (which is illegal).
It is also not uncommon for over-the-counter drugs to be absued. Cough suppressants, antihistamines and sleep aids are just an example of drugs easily accessible and easily abused.
The result of abusing prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs are: confusion, sedation, coma, seizures, decreased respiration, respiratory depression, withdrawal and death.
If you or someone you know is using prescription drugs, please seek help. Clearbrook Treatment Centers is the leading drug rehab in Pennsylvania. We have been helping adults, adolescents and families reach sobriety/recovery. For more information on Clearbrook and the signs and symptoms of drug abuse, go to www.clearbrookinc.com
Source-nida.nih.org2001
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Spice- Just as Dangerous as Street Drugs
There’s a drug popular with teens in the U.S. that many parents may never have heard of, but worst of all – it is legal. This drug, called “Spice” or “K2” is said to give the addict a marijuana-like high. Sold in headshops and online as incense, it is being smoked as a legal alternative to marijuana. But this drug appears to have more dangerous side-effects and without the necessary regulation, users have no idea what they’re really getting.
Spice originally appeared on the scene in the late 1990s, but didn’t really become popular until 2008. As the new drug gained popularity in Europe, scientists began conducting research into the composition of this drug and any effects on the body. As a result of these investigations, many countries subsequently banned Spice including Germany, France, Chile, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, and the U.K.
German researchers were able to determine that Spice contained a variety of synthetic cannabinoids, which are chemical compounds devised to produce marijuana-like effects. There was a high quantity of other synthetic chemicals found as well, indicating that a user really has no way of knowing what they are being exposed to. Worse yet, Spice appears to have many negative side effects that marijuana does not such as anxiety attacks, hallucinations, nausea, and a chemical dependency. Three teenagers in Roswell, GA were recently hospitalized after using Spice. One teen had a severe reaction to the drug, resulting in swelling of the brain.
Currently there is no way to test for the use of Spice, as it is not a regulated drug. Theoretically, children under the age of 18 cannot buy the drug, as head shops and online stores are not supposed to sell to minors. Many people may be led to believe that it is a safe alternative to marijuana. It is not. This could not be further from the truth. Parents, teachers, and lawmakers need to be made aware that this drug is out there and that it has the potential to harm the lives of our children.
Spice use and abuse in our teens has already become a problem. Clearbrook Treatment Centers, a spice drug treatment center or rehab in Pennsylvania can help your teen with his/her addiction. Please call us or visit clearbrookinc.com/Clearbrook_Lodge.php
Spice originally appeared on the scene in the late 1990s, but didn’t really become popular until 2008. As the new drug gained popularity in Europe, scientists began conducting research into the composition of this drug and any effects on the body. As a result of these investigations, many countries subsequently banned Spice including Germany, France, Chile, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, and the U.K.
German researchers were able to determine that Spice contained a variety of synthetic cannabinoids, which are chemical compounds devised to produce marijuana-like effects. There was a high quantity of other synthetic chemicals found as well, indicating that a user really has no way of knowing what they are being exposed to. Worse yet, Spice appears to have many negative side effects that marijuana does not such as anxiety attacks, hallucinations, nausea, and a chemical dependency. Three teenagers in Roswell, GA were recently hospitalized after using Spice. One teen had a severe reaction to the drug, resulting in swelling of the brain.
Currently there is no way to test for the use of Spice, as it is not a regulated drug. Theoretically, children under the age of 18 cannot buy the drug, as head shops and online stores are not supposed to sell to minors. Many people may be led to believe that it is a safe alternative to marijuana. It is not. This could not be further from the truth. Parents, teachers, and lawmakers need to be made aware that this drug is out there and that it has the potential to harm the lives of our children.
Spice use and abuse in our teens has already become a problem. Clearbrook Treatment Centers, a spice drug treatment center or rehab in Pennsylvania can help your teen with his/her addiction. Please call us or visit clearbrookinc.com/Clearbrook_Lodge.php
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)