Gary Dourdan, "CSI" star caught with drugs

Gary Dourdan was recently caught with cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, miscellaneous prescription drugs and paraphernalia. Appears that drug addiction has once again hit Hollywood! The disease of drug addiction can be so cunning, baffling and powerful, even Hollywood stars, who appear to have it made, with money, glamour and the like, are prey to it. One hopes that Gary Dourdan will seek the best drug rehab treatment for his addiction to drugs.

Need help with drug treatment? Call our 24 hour help line at 1-866-478-9898, we're here to help!

Restoring the Drug Addict to Sanity

For those suffering from drug addiction, the last thing they want to admit is that their drugging has caused them to be "insane" The definition of insanity, to many, is repeating the same behavior over and over again, expecting different results. For example, the addict who needs a fix, a smoke, the pipe first thing in the morning, may find that by taking that first drug only results in progressive using throughout the day, into the night until they run out of money or the like. As insane as addicts can be when in the grips of the disease of addiction, the addict may really believe they can still have that first fix the next morning, hoping to yield a different result, maybe they believe they can stop after the first fix or two, maybe they believe they can continue using "normally" and not to excess that eventually leads to dire consequences. Most times, the addict will not be successful in their attempts to control their using. That is what we call "insanity".
Many addicts have found the answer through the 12 steps of Narcotics Anonymous. Restoring the addict to sanity is practiced through Step Two of Narcotics Anonymous.

"We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity."

As the addict approaches this step, they begin to consider that maybe, just maybe, there is a Power Greater than themselves - a Power capable of healing their hurt, calming their confusion, and restoring their sanity. The addict learns and understands that finding this "Higher Power" doesn't mean they have to be religious. That's far from the truth, the addict learns that the 12 Steps of Narcotics Anonymous is a spiritual, not religious program. As the addict remains clean and continues to work Step Two, they discover that no matter how long their addiction has gone on and how far their insanity has progressed, there is no limit to the ability of a "Higher Power" restoring them to sanity. There is help for the drug addict.

Restoring the Alcoholic to Sanity

For the alcoholic, the last thing they want to admit is that their drinking has caused them to be "insane" The definition of insanity, to many, is repeating the same behavior over and over again, expecting different results. For example, the alcoholic who needs a drink first thing in the morning, may find that by taking that first drink only results in progressive drinking throughout the day, into the night until they blackout. As insane as alcoholics can be when in the grips of the disease of alcoholism, the alcoholic may really believe they can still have that first drink the next morning, hoping to yield a different result, maybe they believe they can stop after the first drink or two, maybe they believe they can continue drinking "normally" and not to excess that eventually leads to a blackout. Most times, the alcoholic will not be successful in their attempts to control their drinking. That is what we call "insanity".
Many alcoholics have found the answer through the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Restoring the alcoholic to sanity is practiced through Step Two of Alcoholics Anonymous.

"We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity."

As the alcoholic approaches this step, they begin to consider that maybe, just maybe, there is a Power Greater than themselves - a Power capable of healing their hurt, calming their confusion, and restoring their sanity. The alcoholic learns and understands that finding this "Higher Power" doesn't mean they have to be religious. That's far from the truth, the alcoholic learns that the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous is a spiritual, not religious program. As the alcoholic remains sober and continues to work Step Two, they discover that no matter how long their drinking has gone on and how far their insanity has progressed, there is no limit to the ability of a "Higher Power" restoring them to sanity. There is help for the alcoholic.

Gay and alcoholic: Beauty and the Beast

The gay communtiy struggles with significant alcohol and drug abuse. The allure of a gay club is strong. The need to look, and more importantly, to "feel" a certain way in the clubs are extremely common. In comes alcohol! Alcohol looks attractive at 8 pm, but have you ever seen a drunken queen at last call? It's not pretty!Alcohol is a depressant drug that also works on social inhibitions. Taken in moderation, alcohol is not necessarily an abuse drug. The combination of alcohol and alcoholic however is necessarily abusive and could even be deadly!

The following are signs to watch for when you ask yourself whether you are an alcoholic:

1) Cravings - A strong need, or urge to drink. For example, drinking BEFORE you head out to the clubs.

2) Loss of control - Not able to stop drinking once you start. You often say to yourself "this is my last one --- NOT!"

3) Physical Dependence - Withdrawal symptoms (e.g. sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremors, and experiencing anxiety, or elevated fears, after drinking binge

4) Tolerance - The need to drink greater amounts of alcohol to gain the same "buzz".

5) Problems related to drinking - losing a job, a relationship, friends, physical health, etc.

The alcohol industry has for too long exploited the problem of alcoholism in the gay community. The gay community needs to back gay-affirming rehabs and treatment cetners to help all of us affected by drugs and alcohol. If you, your partner, or a loved one is experiencing some of the above symptoms of alcoholism, please call our recovery counselors at (866) 478-9898. We offer an extrememly effective alcohol detox program and treatment. Don't hesitate, call today!

Recuperatio Primoris! (Recovery above all else!)

The Symphony of Drug Rehab

Most people try outpatient treatment for their addiction before considering drug rehab or alcohol rehab. Most of those people fail.

The reason is that addiction is extremely resistent to treatment. It takes a supreme, concerted effort to get an addict on the road to a lasting recovery. The best drug rehabs and best alcohol rehabs are those that orchestrate a multi-pronged approach that involves a myriad of individualized and common treatment elements. However, each of these elements do not exist in isolation. They are integrated, much as a conductor would conduct a symphony of many players and instruments. The result is not a conglomeration of noise but, rather, beautiful music.

There are only a few top rehabs out there. Ours is one of the few. Call our HelpLine at 866-478-9898 for more information. Let's get you on the road to recovery.

Is Drug Rehab easy?

Drug rehab is easy. Is that what you wanted to hear? How about this: "we have the cure for addiction, and it is located in a posh drug rehab in Honolulu, Hawaii!" Isn't that great? I have seen other rehabs say that they have "the cure". Well, if it sounds too good to be true.... you know the rest.

The truth is, drug rehab is not easy. Any transformative process takes effort. It is hard work. Emotional work. However, surrounded by caring professional people, who involve significant others and your loved ones in your treatment, you are able be on the road to recovery. You can do it! We are here to support you through the difficult recovery process. Remember, though, the beginning is the most difficult. Things get easier with time! As your life and perspective transform into that of a person in early recovery, joy will return to your life.

Roll up your sleeves, and let's get to work. Give Paradise Recovery a call: 866-478-9898. Let the transformation begin!

Resistance to Alcohol Rehab

For many practicing alcoholics, the last thing on their mind is going to alcohol rehab. The disease tells the alcoholic, "You don't need help! You're not the problem, they are!" They, meaning the significant other, co-worker, employer, children, parents, society, the list goes on and on.

After all who wants to go to alcohol rehab to admit that they are, through their drinking, the main source of the problem? Checking into an alcohol rehab is a BIG step, oftentimes, the hardest step to make. Humility and surrender are key components to recovery, one's that the disease of alcoholism is very resistant to.

Once that BIG step is taken, however, the transformation will begin. Recovery is an inside job and being admitted to an alcohol rehab will assist in healing from within.

At Paradise Recovery, we help the alcoholic in the transformation process to a healthier, spirited soul. Not only do we offer top-notch therapy, we also introduce you to an array of healing techniques, which include Yoga, Acupuncture, Qi Gong (Movement Therapy), Fitness Training, Meditation. We are the New Generation of Rehabs, combining traditional with new age techniques to be able to offer the best an alcohol rehab can offer.

If you or a loved one needs help, please contact us, Paradise Recovery on our 24 hour help line at
1-866-478-9898.

Resistance to Drug Rehab

For many practicing drug addicts, the last thing on their mind is going to drug rehab. The disease tells the drug addict, "You don't need help! You're not the problem, they are!" They, meaning the significant other, co-worker, employer, children, parents, society, the list goes on and on. After all who wants to go to drug rehab to admit that they are, through drugging, the main source of the problem? Checking into a drug rehab is a BIG step, oftentimes, the hardest step to make. Humility and surrender are key components to recovery, one's that the disease of drug addiction is very resistant to.Once that BIG step is taken, however, the transformation will begin. Recovery is an inside job and being admitted to a drug rehab will assist in healing from within. At Paradise Recovery, we help the drug addict in the transformation process to a healthier, spirited soul. Not only do we offer top-notch therapy, we also introduce you to an array of healing techniques, which include Yoga, Acupuncture, Qi Gong (Movement Therapy), Fitness Training, Meditation. We are the New Generation of Rehabs, combining traditional with new age techniques to be able to offer the best a drug rehab can offer.If you or a loved one needs help, please contact us on our 24 hour HelpLine at 1-866-478-9898.

What is Codependency? Addicted to the Addict!

Have you ever had a need to be needed? Barbara Streisand said it, "People who need people...are the luckiest people in the world!" Well, sometimes.

Codependency is a dysfunction where you become enmeshed, entangled, obsessed and in fact, addicted to the person who is struggling with alcohol, drug, sex or gambling addiction. You lose yourself in the other! The codependent will rescue, protect, defend the addict, even when their own physical, emotional, or spiritual well-being is compromised. Many people feel codependency is a passive dynamic, au contrare, the codependent often will gain power by controlling the addict and manipulating them by using "get backs", empty threats, or become "the victim".

Just as alcoholism and drug addiction is a condition that requires treatment, so is codependency. Drug rehabs across the country treat people with codependency. Sometimes an alcoholic or addict will also struggle with codependency, since they may have been raised in an addicted family system.

If you feel that "helping" your loved one who may be an alcoholic or an addict, appears to be defining WHO you are, then you should be seeking help. Look at your own resistance to seek treatment...that may be a sign that you are a codependent. Your intentions are honorable, you probably even earned a purple heart in the battles you've engaged in over the addiction, but it should end. Your battling with your loved one over their addiction is not helping, not helpful!

If you are a codependent you are not helping your loved one. Let me repeat...if you are a codependent you are not helping your loved one! Run, don't walk to a CODA (Codependent Anonymous) or an Alanon meeting immediately. You need direction to find yourself, define your boundaries and figure out how to attract and maintain ADULT, MUTUAL relationships with others.

If you have any further questions, please call our 24-Hour HelpLine at (866) 478-9898.

Recuperatio Primoris! (Recovery above all else!)

Crystal Meth and Gay Men: Can't stop Tina?

Crystal Methamphetamine, or "ICE," or "Tina" still remains a significant problem in the gay community. A quick search on Amazon.com will show you the number of books written on the topic. The immediate, intense effect on apparent self-esteem and sexual performance makes the drug immensely popular among gay men who are emotionally struggling with an affirming relations with sexually and non-sexually intimate others. Crystal Meth is a treatable addiction and admitting to a holistic drug rehab could assist you with detox and addiction treatment!

Cystal meth is a stimulant drug that makes the Kama Sutra look like an issue of National Geographic! Those who use crystal meth and their partners, report an intense, exotic experience and have a hard time returning to non-meth sex!

Some reporters have spoke about the connection between crystal meth and a collective "community of grief" in the era of AIDS and the losses that most of us had to endure and continue to endure. The drug is a synthetic way of feeling great for a while. However, you become a slave to the drug as it eats away the intelligent network of your brain and other staggering physical destruction secondary to the drug. Also, it terribly alters your mental status and the meth addict often engages in non-safe sexual behaviors and becomes careless about their careers and loved ones.

A most recent case is the international correspondent for CNN, Richard Qwest, who was found in NYC's Central Park with crystal meth and in a public sexual exhibition. He is currently in treatment and we wish him well. It shows you the power of the drug and the disease of addiction.

There is a treatment for crystal meth addiction...its called RECOVERY! Many clients have come to our facility, gay men who were addicted to crystal meth and often had co-morbid diagnoses of sex addiction and HIV. Crystal meth is often used with other addictive substances including: alcohol, marijuana, heroin, etc.

If you, or a loved one has an addictive problem, please call our 24-Hour HelpLine at (866) 478-9898 and speak with one of our counselors.

Recuperatio Primoris! (Recovery above all else!)

Salvia Divinorum: A harmless herb?

Salvia Divinorum, or commonly known as "Salvia", "Lady Salvia," "Sally-D," or "Magic Mint" is a powerful hallucinogenic and psychoactive herb with a long religious use with Mazatec shamans to induce a "religious experience". It is sold in the U.S. in small bags with varying strengths, and it is TOTALLY LEGAL. Yes, even your 10 year-old can buy Salvia at a local store. It can be chewed, smoked, or taken as a tincture. A search on YouTube can offer you video proof of the bizarre and scary looking effects of the herb.

Some of its bizarre effects are: uncontrollable laughter, altered mental states, dysphoria, confusion, or visual illusions. The duration of the high is about 3-4 minutes depending on the strength. Ironically, Salvia reportedly has been used to curb addiction cravings and can put a depressed person in an elevated, less depressed mood.

The herb may be non-addictive, but the use of Salvia with other drugs and alcohol may be deadly. Of course, who is the first in line to try Salvia? You've guessed it...adolecsents and addicts! Both groups have a great deal of difficulty handling affect and mood. Adolescents have enough to worry about regarding mood stabilization and control. Salvia is not going to assist in the emotional control department. Addicts have already put Salvia on their radar, since it another way to "run away," even for a few minutes, from life's happenings and responsibilities.

So, if you or someone you know if regularly using Salvia along with other drugs, please call our 24-Hour HelpLine at (866) 478-9898 and speak with one of our counselors in recovery.

Lets keep its use to Mexican shammans and restrict its use to growing adolescents and addicts, who may be convinced that Salvia is another "weed type high" and it can't be further from the truth!

Salvia Divinorum. Hmmm...personally, I prefer another Latin phrase:
Recuperatio Primoris! (Recovery above all else!)

Holistic Drug Rehab: A few considerations

When you are seeking treatment for addiction there are several types of alcohol and drug treatment programs. One type is public or state-funded rehab. They help many people with stabilization, 12-Step programs and group support. The second type is a private program that focuses primarily on getting you clean and sober with many group interventions. Both of these programs spend a great deal of energy imposing their beliefs and principles. Many people feel they've "failed" these programs, since it is difficult for an addict to ascend to such principles without doing the critical work of why they are being self-destructive in the first place.

The holistic rehab listens to you. You are the person who drives the treatment, instead of other programs that expect "program compliance". The holistic program is concerned about how the addiction affects all aspects of your life: emotional, physical and spiritual. The holistic program involves non-traditional therapies such as: massage, meditation, acupuncture, physical fitness, etc. The program is designed for YOU!

If you, or a loved one is seeking a holistic addiction recovery program, then call our 24-Hour HelpLine (866) 478-9898 and speak to one of our counselors in recovery!

Recuperatio Primoris! (Recovery above all else!)

CNN reporter Richard Quest in Rehab

You might ask yourself why a high-profile person such as Richard Quest of CNN would have been caught in Central Park engaged in questionable activities and in possession of crystal methamphetamine.

I have the answer for you. It is called the disease of addiction. Addiction is something that you don't have control over. You need help to overcome addiction. If you don't get help, addiction will overcome you. It is that simple.

Somewhere Richard Quest may have realized that he was nearing the end of his rope but could not bring himself to get help (addiction is a cruel disease that is unbelievably cunning when it comes to putting barriers up against the addict getting help. Addiction always wants to preserve itself). Maybe this was his cry for help. After all, he was "caught" in Central Park in the middle of New York City. I don't know about you, but if you are a high-profile person trying to not get caught doing something illegal and embarrassing, Central Park is not the place to do it. Yet, that is exactly the place that Richard Quest was arrested.

The judge in the case ordered him into treatment. Mr. Quest's cry for help was heard. Addiction can not use its cunning ways to stop him from getting treatment anymore. Now, he has no choice. When you think about it, it was his choice to have no choice. It may have been the only way that he felt he could be in a position to get the help he needs.

Let's hope he has entered into a drug rehab that has a holistic treatment program, one that will tackle the addiction from all angles and give him a great shot at success. We wish you the best on your road to recovery.

Addiction Treatment

When a drug addict is finally brought to a place where they can no longer deny the nature of their problem, caused by the use of drugs. When all the lies, all the rationalizations, all the illusions fall away, and they stand face to face with what their lives have become; a life without hope, isolated from society, disconnected in relations with loved ones, inability to perform at work, at home. This typically can be called "hitting bottom" to the drug addict.

Finding drug treatment is in the persons best interest. Though it may seem to the drug addict that all is lost, the truth is that many drug addicts must pass through this, what is referred to as "hitting bottom", before they can truly embark upon a journey of recovery.

If you are looking for Addiction Treatment, please call us toll free at 1-866-478-9898.

Alcohol Treatment

When an alcoholic is finally brought to a place where they can no longer deny the nature of their problem, caused by drinking excessively. When all the lies, all the rationalizations, all the illusions fall away, and they stand face to face with what their lives have become; a life without hope, isolated from society, disconnected in relations with loved ones, inability to perform at work, at home. This typically can be called "hitting bottom" to the alcoholic.

Finding alcohol treatment is in the persons best interest. Though it may seem to the alcoholic that all is lost, the truth is that many alcoholics must pass through this, what is referred to as "hitting bottom", before they can truly embark upon a journey of recovery.

If you are looking for Alcohol treatment, please call us toll free at 1-866-478-9898.

The Disease of Addiction

What makes the addict is the disease of addiction - not the drugs, not the alcohol, not the behavior, but the disease. There is "something" within the alcoholic/drug addict that makes it impossible to control the use of drugs or alcohol. This same "something" also makes them prone to obsession and compulsion in other areas of their lives. How can one tell when the disease is active? When the alcoholic/drug addict becomes trapped in obsessive, compulsive, self-centered routines, endless loops that lead nowhere but to physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional decay.

The disease of addiction can manifest itself in many ways. When the alcoholic/drug addict first realizes their problem, they think it's just the drugs or alcohol that is the culprit of their problems. Later to find out that their addiction is wreaking havoc in their lives in any number of ways.

It is suggested that working through the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous can help the addict/alcoholic identify and understand their disease. Help the addict/alcoholic find freedom from active addiction.

What is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual Diagnosis refers to someone who has two or more "psychiatric" conditions at the same time. Generally, one diagnosis is addiction related, although it does not necessarily have to be so.

Why treatment of dual diagnosis is important as it relates to overall addiction treatment is that both conditions need to be treated concurrently. Common co-occuring conditions include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

All of the recent studies show that you need treatment for both the addiction as well as the co-occuring diagnosis at the same time for your treatment to have the best chance of success. The best drug rehabs and best alcohol rehabs are able to correctly diagnose and treat dual diagnosis conditions effectively. Paradise Recovery's staff are adept at diagnosing and treating individuals with dual disorders. We are here for you.

John Neuhaus, M.D.

Humility: A great virtue for alcoholics and addicts in treatment

We know from decades of successful recovery work that one key character trait that aids in recovery work, and without it hinders recovery success, is humility. Humility comes from the Latin root "humus" meaning earthy, or without airs. So, to be humble is to be "real".

Being humble requires shifting from a self-centered, addictive existence,to a more other-focused existence. For example, we limit phone calls in rehab precisely because our new clients will call family members and loved ones and harangue about themselves and why they should or should not (more often) be in rehab. They actually may attack and blame others. A humble response would be to consider what my behaviors may have done to affect my loved ones and commit to treatment, and follow the instructions of the rehab staff, since I know I am not an expert in recovery.

Humility is not easy. It is not an innate American trait. You just need to travel a bit and realize the reputation we Americans have throughout large portions of the planet. Often in our country, humble people are seen as weak, vulnerable and inactive. Regarding recovery, humility is the mortar that keeps the foundation alive and strong. It is by far, not an inactive, vulnerable position. Arrogance, pride, self-absorption is what we need to avoid as persons in recovery.

We need to fight the prideful, arrogance that often is associated with addiction and realize that this attitude is going to kill me!

If you, or a loved one needs help with their addiction, please contact us on our 24-Hour HelpLine (866) 478-9898.

The more you lose yourself in something bigger than yourself, the more energy you will have!
Norman Vincent Peale

Recuperatio Primoris! (Recovery above all else!)

Hawaiian Addiction Treatment and the Family: Ho'oponopono

Addiction hurts many people. Not just the addicted person themselves, but also their family, friends, and loved ones. When beginning treatment for addiction, one has many aspects that need healing. There is a type of Hawaiian therapy which is called Ho'oponopono. This powerful word literally means "to make things right". The Hawaiians believe that it is important to make things right, not only with those whom you have current relationships (family, friends and loved ones), but also with your ancestors. Ho'oponopono is a process by which the family is brought together and the things that are not "right" are worked through in a highly experiential session. It is a powerful and moving experience. It is also the beginning of healing for the addicted person and their family.

The only drug rehab in the world with an offering of this ancient Hawaiian therapy is Paradise Recovery, located on the island of Oahu. It's time for all of us to make things right.

Opiate Detox. A Successful Start.

Opiate detox is one of the most difficult detoxes to have to endure. It is also a medically intensive detox for the drug rehab program that is orchestrating the detox. At least it should be. Common opiate drugs that people frequently become addicted to include Oxycontin, Vicodin, morphine, heroin, methadone, Tylenol with Codeine, and oxycodone, among others. The best drug rehabs will orchestrate your opiate detox in such a way that you will experience only mild opiate withdrawal symptoms. At Paradise Recovery, this is accomplished through the direction of a highly experienced addiction psychiatrist and internal medicine physician. The physicians work in concert with the acupuncturist and dietician to tackle the detox from several different angles.

Our experience with even very difficult opiate detox situations has been very positive. Please remember: the detox process is only the first step in your recovery. You will need a clear mind and clean body to be able to absorb the critical concepts you will need and to do the transformation work required for a lasting recovery. Give yourself some time to allow this to happen.

John Neuhaus, M.D.

The Art of Manipulation: An Addicts Tool

Manipulation is a classic tool that alcoholics and addicts use and a close cousin to denial and other cognitive distortions. It assists an addict to maintain their addictive behaviors. Manipulation gives the addict a false sense of power and control over others, while actually feeling insignificant and powerless. Working on thinking distortions is a major task in alcohol and drug rehab treatment.

Manipulation can either be subtle, or not so subtle. Often when an addict is trying to divert attention from his abuse to something other than their addiction, they often use manipulation (e.g. "borrowing" money from your family with the intent of buying drugs, while telling them you need the money for food and paying bills). Each time an alcoholic/addict is able to successfully manipulate a person, a system, etc., it delays any possibility for recovery and will permit the disease to progress. More subtle forms of manipulation employs power and control, often the person being manipulated doesn't realize it until much later.

The good news is that once you surrender and begin to take an inventory of past personal and social errors, including manipulating others, you can begin to practice more adaptive and healthy ways of interacting with others, without the substance or process addiction. Making amends to those people you manipulated can be both scary and freeing!

Choosing treatment, entering a rehab, is an excellent start towards recovery and becoming less and less manipulative. Some may say that people in recovery use "manipulation" to convince people into treatment and clean and sober living.

If you, or a loved one needs treatment for their alcohol, drug, sex or gambling addiction please call our 24-Hour HelpLine at (866) 478-9898.

Can I afford rehab? Can I afford NOT to go to rehab?

When choosing an alcohol or drug rehab one of the considerations is price. The only times in our lives when we dispose of 20, 30, or even $50,000 for anything, its usually a luxury car or a house. So, to fork up that much money for treatment is hard for most people to imagine. Some people just cannot pay for private treatment, the same as most people cant pay for first-class seats on international flights, or purchase a house on the beach.

However, if you have the resources, choosing a private rehab with a focus of individual care, addressing your unique issues, seems to be a proven way to get back on track and gain recovery. Many programs in the U.S. provide group therapy with little to no individual therapy time. They do this for two reasons: 1) A group model has been best practice for addiction recovery for years, and 2) It's cheaper! That is the way most programs can afford to operate, while charging a small amount each month for treatment.

When you choose a program that includes multiple individual therapy sessions per week, individual nutrition program, personal fitness, massage, acupuncture, then you are receiving a much different product and the costs to the program are high.

I am not aware of a study that compares the outcomes of public addiction treatment to private, individualized care. However, with twenty years in the business and having worked for both lower cost and higher cost programs, I have seen significant differences in sustained recovery rates, the higher rates from the program that offers more individualized and multi-faceted care.

The costs associated with addiction are high! The costs for the drugs, sex, gambling are extremely high. The relationship and career costs are also staggering! You may want to factor that in when thinking about whether I can afford a private rehab or not. At least, you may get a higher yield on your investment with treatment than with the expenses related to your addiction!

So, if you want to buy a "Ford", then you will get Ford. If you want to buy a car that meets more of your needs, wants and sustains you longer, then choose a program with more value and long-term success!


Recuperatio Primoris (Recovery above all else)

Individualized Treatment is Key in Drug Rehab

The most recent studies show that individualized treatment is the cornerstone to successful rehab from drugs or alcohol. The best drug rehabs and best alcohol rehabs offer individualized care that is balanced with the other therapeutic modalities.

Let's talk about that balance a little bit. What I mean here is that individual therapy is one of the major components to a successful recovery. Studies also show that group therapy is a very important component when it comes to recovery. What we have then is a need to balance group and individual work. Individual work focuses on your specific core issues that have brought you to this point. There are certain warning signs and triggers that are specific to you and your risk of relapse. There are family dynamics that are special to you and no one else. These issues and more are all addressed in the individual and family therapy process.

On the other hand, addiction is a disease that is not unique. There are many aspects of the disease that addicts all have in common and all must face. Many of these issues are best addressed in group therapy sessions. There is a certain support and knowledge that comes from being involved in group work that can not be gotten from individual therapy alone.

When choosing a drug rehab, alcohol rehab, or addiction rehab center make sure that there is a balance of the right things that you are going to need in order to get on the road of a sustained recovery.

Too Young For Recovery?

There are those out there who feel that recovery can only really happen at or after a certain age. The concept is vaguely attached to the idea that the alcoholic/addict must hit absolute bottom for recovery to begin. In other words, to get sober, the alcoholic/addict must experience the loss of everything s/he holds dear or experience life threatening physical challenges in order to get it; "it" being the motivation to change their behavior and thinking, the very fabric of who they are.

It can be this kind of thinking that occasionally dissuades the young person from seeking effective alcohol or drug treatment. However, make no mistake--recovery can be obtained and maintained at any age. Moreover, not every addict has to lose everything in order for the process of recovery to begin. Rock bottom can look different for different people. Perhaps it is the loss of a job; maybe it takes the form of a divorce; to some it might be the estrangement of children.

But to others, rock bottom may be peer disapproval. Or getting arrested for underage drinking. Or getting into a single fight at a concert.

More and more, younger and younger people are beginning at earlier ages to recognize the ways in which alcohol and drugs may be eroding the quality of their lives. And more and more of them are making the choice (not being forced) to do something about it. Age is no longer any kind of a deciding factor. Nor is the extent to which the person has experienced loss. What seems to matter is a willingness to look at pattern of use and it's effect on one's life and decide that change is possible. Regardless of age

Too young for recovery? Never--absolutely not.

My Cat is an Addict... the Power of Addiction

Yes, my cat is an addict. To be specific, he is a sex addict. When there is a female cat around in heat, he becomes a different cat. It's not my cat. Must belong to someone else I think.... he is no longer the friendly, playful and loving being that he was. Now, he is completely focused on getting outside to mate with that female cat that is howling incessantly. He won't eat. He barely sleeps. He no longer grooms himself. He doesn't care about me anymore, the one who has loved him more than anyone.

As the loving father that I am, I had mercy on my cat. I had the family jewels removed in an unceremonious procedure. Now, he is happy again. He is loving, playful, and attentive. He eats and takes care of himself. I have my cat back.

Was my cat really a sex addict? Sounds kind of funny, but think of the human parallel. What happens with humans as their addiction spirals out of control? I would argue that the same thing happens with the human being as what happened with my cat. My cat didn't necessarily have a disease per se, but he did have a biological drive to reproduce that was rather overwhelming for him. He couldn't overcome it on his own. No one could reason with him or talk him out of his state of mind. Nothing could stop him, even though he was literally wasting away. Well, almost nothing... the orchidectomy did the trick this time.

Please don't run out to have an orchidectomy in order to overcome your addiction. It wouldn't work, of course, but ironically having a surgery would be much easier than what the addict has to do in order to maintain on a path of recovery. Fighting addiction is a battle. There is no easy answer. There is no easy solution. However, there are answers. And, there are solutions. Addiction treatment works. To have the best chance of success, look to the best drug rehabs and alcohol rehabs for help. The best rehabs will have a holistic treatment approach and they will work side-by-side with you to overcome your addiction.

Whatever you do, just get help. You can't do it on your own. There is no reasoning with addiction. There is no talking yourself out of it. Addiction is very powerful. There are other ways, however, which are clinically proven to be highly effective. Give this HelpLine a call and they will point you in the right direction: 866-478-9898. You have the power to dial the number. It is the first step.

Fun In Recovery

Some folk have a difficult time getting into recovery because of their concerns that "I don't know if I can have fun in recovery." Strange thought but not totally foreign. After all, when addicts first start using and drinkers first start drinking, the alcohol or drug feels good. It's fun to get stoned, baked, high, or drunk. And part of the denial in addiction is to hold on to the idea that fun can only be had when using.

It's largely not until later, when the physical pain begins, when the losses occur, when the finances are threatened, when family members are distraught, when jobs are lost, when friends disappear, when th