Addiction can take many forms. Gambling, sex, drugs, anything can be
considered an addiction if abused and can become a destructive obsession
if left unchecked. The effects of addiction can be as
deadly as the worst disease as in the case of hardcore drug abuse, or
damaging to one’s social and work life as is the case with hardcore
gambling or sex addiction. For each person addiction is different even
though the stimulant of choice or behavior may be the same. Each
addiction must be addressed according to the individual involved so a
proper plan of treatment can be instituted.

Make no mistake, an addiction is an illness, and like most
illnesses can be cured with proper treatment. With the expert assistance
of doctors, councilors, and physical therapists, addiction can be
treated. Cliffside Malibu offers the services of such professionals and
more. Our experienced staff which even includes professional chefs and yoga
instructors are here to help aid you during recovery. Our dedicated
resident staff are available 24/7 to assist you and your loved ones,
just call 800-501-1988.

Cliffside Malibu’s treatment doesn’t end with expert care and
assistance. A peaceful environment is also conducive to the treatment of
addiction and unlike the hospital like conditions of other rehabs, we
have luxurious living quarters with modern amenities like plasma TVs
and wireless Internet. We combine that with tranquil, natural surroundings
to create a pleasant rehabilitation experience. With our help
you will soon be back to your family and friends living the life you
deserve, free from the chains of addiction.

For most people with a substance abuse problem, the road to addiction recovery can be long. For most, it involves acknowledging the fact that they need help and acting on the desire to get help. Once admitted to a treatment center, most clients go through a detoxification process and then get to work on their recovery. Addiction recovery is not easy, but it can be done. For many people, it is just a matter of finding an addiction recovery program that clicks with them. With the many different programs available, this is not the hard part of addiction treatment.

People who have made this addiction recovery journey often find it challenging to go back out into the world without their substance of choice to help them cope. A large part of addiction recovery is a lifelong desire to be free of the substance so that they can find a good job, get a home, have a family and obtain the kind of life they would like to have. A treatment center that has given a client the tools to accomplish these goals after their addiction recovery is the kind of treatment center that anyone should be looking for.

There are many parts to addiction recovery. Many of these include treatment with medication, alternative treatments and holistic approaches and various types of therapy. But while excellent primary care is vital to addiction recovery, so is an extended treatment plan that offers additional support and help so that the client does not end up turning to drugs or alcohol in times of stress. Stressful events are a part of life, and teaching clients lifelong coping tools that are healthy and effective should be one of the things that every addiction recovery program does.

Cliffside Malibu is one of those addiction recovery programs that gives clients all the tools they need for success. The treatment process at Cliffside Malibu covers the entire spectrum of options. The professional staff is skilled at detoxification, primary treatment that is individualized and long term care and support to give clients the best chance possible at conquering their addiction and realizing a full addiction recovery. Stop by our site and see what the programs at Cliffside Malibu are all about. Or make an appointment to view our beautiful facility situated on the beach. Cliffside Malibu has an excellent success rate for addiction recovery and long-term results through our extended care programs. For addiction recovery, there is no better place than Cliffside Malibu.

For an addict, life is an unending quest to feel better. And often, a fruitless pursuit of a way to achieve that quest. Addicts are told they’re helpless, useless, lazy, selfish. When they are given recovery options, it’s often court-ordered. They are told by well-meaning family and friends to “just quit”. To “be strong”. They are targets of long-winded speeches regarding the costs of their addiction, lists of what their addiction takes from their loved ones as well as themselves, and predictions of the doom that the addiction holds in store for them. All of these things are true, but in themselves are not enough to enable the addict to achieve recovery.

When they are given more well-grounded options, they’re often given one drug to wean them free from the grip of a worse one. They attend NA meetings, enter a “detox” program, switch to a “milder” drug, or a combination of all of these. And in a majority of cases, fail. Which brings about the repeat of the whole addiction cycle. Because without a clear focus on all aspects of their addiction, these methods are rarely successful for the addict, and most often just frustrating to both the addicts and those who love them. It’s easy to see why most admitted addicts despair of recovery!

Recovery requires more than just one or two of these options. It requires a treatment plan which is tailored to the individual addict. One which focuses on all levels of addiction: physical, mental, and emotional.

   -Physical: Withdrawal from the chemical addicted to, treatment of the malnutrition that often accompanies addiction (characterized by loss or impaired use by the body of vitamins and minerals required by the body for proper functioning), treatment of illnesses or injuries caused by the addiction, and return back to proper eating, sleeping, and exercise routines necessary for a healthy body.

   -Mental: Education about the effects on the body of the chemical addicted to. Education on coping skills, trigger recognition, patterns of addictive behavior, and skills necessary to a successful and continued recovery. Helping the addict recognize and get treatment for the underlying causes of the addiction.

   -Emotional: Rebuilding of the pride, confidence, sense of worth, respect, capability, and trust that addicts generally lose while in the grip of their drug of choice. Empowering the addict by giving them the control and the choice in the success of their recovery process. The understanding for an addicts recovery issues and challenges, and the support to help the addict face those challenges and overcome them.

The most successful recovery from any addiction is one that is built around the individual addict and focuses on each of these levels. By paying attention to the needs of the individual addict the treatment can build supports and strategies to overcome the difficult parts of the recovery process, while reinforcing the strengths the addict already possesses.

There is hope for recovery from addiction. Recovery is an achievable goal. Life can be reclaimed with effort, understanding, and a comprehensive and complete drug treatment plan.

Drug and alcohol addictions are pervasive in today’s society. There probably isn’t one person out there who can say they haven’t been touched in one way or another by the affects of addiction. One of the most tragic aspects of addiction is the fact that there is help but many people are not aware of it. Addiction recovery isn’t easy, and sometimes it can be costly, but it has saved, and continues to save, thousands of lives every year. Both legal and illegal drugs have the potential to be abused and this abuse leads to addiction. But, as a loved one of somebody going through addiction, how do you know when it has become a problem?

There are stages and symptoms of addiction that you can look for if you fear someone you love has a substance abuse problem. The stages start with use. Not everybody who uses drugs or alcohol has an addiction problem, but you may suspect something is wrong if you notice somebody slide into the second stage of misuse. At this point, one may want to start considering the possibility that the person they love is headed for danger. By the last stage, abuse and dependency, it is time to consider getting your loved one into recovery. You know they’ve reached dependency if you notice they have an inability to stop using drugs or alcohol regardless of the negative impact it has on their life. It is at this point that intervention may be required.

Intervention

Despite what you may have heard, it is not necessary, or wise to wait for the addict to “hit bottom.” The idea behind intervention is to confront the addict with the reality of what their situation has become. Often times, family and friends are involved. By bringing in the people most impacted by the addict’s behavior, it truly hits home the damage that has been done to both the addict and the people around them.

If the addict is convinced to seek treatment, it is vital to get them to go immediately. For this reason, experts advise that a treatment center is chosen before the intervention takes place. This way the addict can be taken straight from the intervention to the treatment facility before they change their mind. This is the point where the real recovery begins.

Treatment/Recovery

There are many approaches to treatment and recovery, the best one is a matter pf preference. What works for some may not work for others. Some of these different options include:

• Out-patient treatment
• Residential treatment
• 12-step programs
• Alternative treatment methods

The type of treatment that is sought may also depend on how severe of an addiction the person has, and the amount of money they have to spend on their treatment.

Out-Patient Treatment

There are two options when seeking out-patient treatment:
1. Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs-in this model the addict will attend treatment four to five evenings a week for two to three hours.
2. Partial Hospitalization and Day Treatment-in this model the addict spends all day, every day, in treatment and then returns home overnight.

Residential Treatment

This option is a much more intense program. It deals with treatment on several levels:

• Withdrawal/Detoxification
• Aftercare

In aftercare, the addict is still seen by the personnel after they complete the residential portion of their treatment. This helps to ensure a smoother integration into society. It also helps the addict deal with all the temptations they will face once they live the cocoon of the facility.

12-Step Program

This was the model that started them all. It was developed 65 years ago by a group of alcoholics. It worked so well that it was adapted in the treatment of other addictions. The basic principle in a 12-step program is redefining one’s values and principles and relying on other recovering addicts for help and support. In yet another type of treatment, a more spiritual and emotional approach is taken.

Alternative Treatment Methods

Alternative methods include a holistic approach to recovery, however; they work best when accompanied with one of the mainstream treatments. Alternative treatment methods are helpful in dealing with reducing stress and improving mental and physical health. Some holistic approaches that work well are:

Acupuncture
• Aromatherapy
• Bioelectricity
• Biofeedback
• Creative Arts Therapy

Those are just a few of the alternative methods that are having success.

Whatever method of recovery you feel will help you or the one you love isn’t as important as the fact that you go. There is no need to feel shame, and just because one of these methods hasn’t worked for you in the past doesn’t mean you can’t get clean, it just means you may need to try a different method.

The topic of substance abuse, and addiction is a multi-faceted problem.
What exactly is considered substance abuse? What causes the
self-destructive need to use these substances in dangerous amounts? Is
it a genetic predisposition, a physical or mental illness? Much research
has been done on the causes of substance abuse and addiction, but no
single cause has been found. Most people drink, or take drugs for the
“buzz” or physical effects. Some do it for the spiritual aspect, and
others to numb some kind of emotional pain. But are there other factors
involved?

The problem of substance abuse in the United States, dates back
to the early 18th century, and the use of tobacco and
coffee. But the real problem of substance abuse can be said to have
begun in the 19th century, with the invention of morphine, laudanum, and
cocaine. Substance abuse was prevalent during this period, opium dens
flourished, cocaine and morphine (available in prescription medications
and in concoctions sold over the counter) were used as freely as aspirin
is today. As the 19th century came to a close and the 20th century
began, substance abuse was a major problem with no legitimate answers.
Bans and penalties, enacted during the ’20s and ’30s, in response to the
threat of narcotics and alcohol, did little to stop the rising tide of
substance abuse. Substance abuse, and addiction in the United States
were here to stay.

As substance abuse continues to be a major issue well into the 21st
century. Researchers in the medical and scientific community, continue
to explore it’s causes and symptoms. And while no cure for, or
protection against addiction has been found, new methods in the
treatment, and rehabilitation of substance abuse, have improved the
recovery rates for this deadly disease dramatically.

You know that you desire a change in your life, but addiction recovery programs seem unappealing and frightening. You have tried other recovery programs, but found that you still keep being drawn back to the flame that is addiction. There is another way… and it can bring you long-term healing and peace in ways you could have not imagined.

Sometimes a body needs something as simple as that which residential recovery programs can provide - rest, healthy food, or special medication. Sometimes it’s spiritual or mental guidance - someone to listen. Sometimes it’s a matter of receiving details and information about a condition and how it specifically applies to you. Whatever method works best for you, you can often find through substance abuse recovery programs.

Mostly due to fear, or the addiction itself, some people feel as though rehabilitation can be achieved by will power. However, it’s rare that individuals can conquer addictive behavior on one’s own. This is why it is important to find recovery programs which specialize in treating your ailment. Call us today, to find out how we can help. 800-501-1988

When it comes to alcohol abuse, no one needs to suffer alone. Cliffside Malibu would like you to know that with over 100,000 men and women failing to receive the treatment they needed last year, the number of options to get treatment has actually increased. Financial assistance is available at the State and Local levels and even the Federal Government has developed a program where vouchers can be issued. The plan is designed to ensure that Americans without private treatment coverage and struggling with alcohol addiction have access to a comprehensive continuum of effective treatment services and recovery support options. Those who are suffering from addiction are not alone as up to 300,000 additional Americans will get help through this program.

Here at Cliffside Malibu, there are plenty of resources available to those who seek help as well. Our agenda treats individuals not only as a group, but more importantly, as individuals each unto their own. Each case is different and therefor each demands a target-specific comprehensive program. With a high success rate, our goal addresses the person as a whole including their lifestyle and both the physical and mental challenges faced in the alcoholic recovery process. Patients undergo an individualized addiction treatment program, including prevention of relapse, treatment of disease and recovery education.

Cliffside Malibu integrates philosophies and practices from various medical, psychological, therapeutic and self-help professionals. No other alcohol abuse treatment center has a higher staff-to-patient ratio with 3 employees to every one client. So, for complete and permanent freedom from alcoholism, the services at Cliffside Malibu are virtually unmatched. 24 hours a day, doctors, nurses, therapists, resident advisers, massage therapists, acupuncturists, yoga instructors, fitness instructors, and even our own chefs create the most comfortable and supportive environment.

There are more services available now than ever so lose the addiction here at Cliffside and gain a productive, vibrant life in society. Don’t wait to embark on the road to recovery. Call us at 800-501-1988.

Alcoholism has finally been classified as what it truly is, a disease. In fact, it has been scientifically proven that alcoholism is genetic, much like heart disease or cancer. We know that 40% of alcoholism is genetic, however, as of yet, we do not know what the other sixty percent is caused by. Some of the important factors to understand when dealing with alcoholism are the underlying issues that cause a person to continue to drink even in the face of total destruction to their lives. This will help enable the people in charge of their alcohol rehabilitation give them intensive individualized treatment, which can help to ensure a successful recovery.

Recognizing you have a problem is the first step on the road to recovery. In order to do this you should ask yourself these questions:

• Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking
• Have people in your life criticized your for your drinking
• Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking
• Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover

If you answered yes to more than one of these questions, you may have an alcohol problem. If you feel that you or somebody you love suffers from alcoholism, it may be time to seek alcohol rehabilitation and recovery.

Alcoholics Anonymous is the standard barer of recovery for alcoholism. But, they aren’t the only ones out there. If you or somebody you know is seeking recovery and treatment for alcoholism, there are choices out there that will enable you to live an alcohol free life. With so many choices available, there is bound to be one to fit your need. Perhaps, for alcoholism the best place to start is Alcoholics Anonymous famous 12-step program.

The 12-step program came into existence over 65 years ago, and was started by a group of alcoholics. Their main goal in the beginning was to provide support and fellowship for fellow alcoholics. An important step in recovery is knowing you are not alone, and that there are other people out there who know what you are going through. The 12-step program is just what the name implies, 12-steps to follow during your recovery. The thought behind this being, if you follow through with all 12 steps than by the end you will have gotten a clearer understanding of how your alcoholism has affected the lives of those around you. It has been so successful that it has been adapted by other substance abuse programs.

While the 12-step program works well for some people, it is not the answer for everybody. That is why so many other options have become available throughout the years. One such treatment method is Therapeutic Intervention. This treatment includes counseling, in a group or individual setting. The counseling sessions address the thinking process an alcoholic goes through and attempts to change it. It involves cognitive behavioral counseling and delves deep into the inner workings of the drinkers mind. For some, this is not conducive to their recovery. They may find it too intrusive and ineffectual. For them, support groups may be the way to go.

Again, Alcoholics Anonymous can be thanked for being innovative in the ways of recovery, for they are the group that started the support group craze. It is based on their idea of using fellowship as an integral part of the recovery process. There is a heavy reliance on faith, and participants are there to help the other group member as well as themselves.

As far as the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment goes, there seems to be no disparity in then with regards to outcome. That being said, three is a thirty percent dropout rate in outpatient treatment compare to a ten percent dropout rate in inpatient alcohol rehab. With alcoholism being as insidious as it is, it doesn’t just affect the lives of the addict, it affects everybody else around them as well. For that reason, it is beneficial to the addict, and their loved ones, for them to get enrolled in an inpatient alcohol rehabilitation center.

Over the years, it has become clear that anybody who has an alcoholic in their family has issues they need to deal with as well. To that end, there are groups for loved ones of alcoholics as well, such as Al-anon. If you are trying to help somebody in your life deal with alcoholism, help yourself first by going to one of the many support groups.

One of the options available to you when you are trying to help an alcoholic with recovery is an intervention. If you decide to go this route, it is vital that you have a professional there to help to facilitate it. It can be dangerous and risky if you try to do it on your own. Before you have the intervention make sure you already have an alcohol rehabilitation program picked out and that they are expecting the addict. Often times, alcoholics will agree to alcohol rehab in order to out of the situation they are in. In order to ensure that they go, have their bags packed and a bed set up. This leaves them little room to back out.

Whether it be Alcoholics Anonymous or one of the many other treatment options that are out there, it is crucial to get your loved one in recovery. It could literally be a matter of life or death. The statistics on alcoholism prove that; five percent of Americans die of alcoholism and ninety five percent of untreated alcoholics will eventually die. This doesn’t have to happen. There are alcohol rehabilitation and recovery programs out there that can help.