Creative Care's Blog

Prescription Drug Addiction

2010-02-04T12:47:00.000-08:00

Prescription drug addiction is endemic to our society. With the recent rash of celebrity overdose deaths, Americans are becoming increasingly aware that prescription drug addiction is ravaging this country. When beloved celebrities like Michael Jackson and Heath Ledger lose their lives to prescription drug overdoses, the epidemic makes headlines. But you don't have to be rich and famous to support a dangerous prescription drug habit. Millions of suburban moms, dads, teachers, nurses and teenagers are becoming addicted to prescription drugs.

Because prescription drugs are legally manufactured and prescribed by physicians, people often incorrectly assume they are less addictive or damaging than street drugs. For this reason, many individuals find themselves in the middle of a severe addiction without ever having realized the danger of what they were doing. This is particularly true for individuals that were first prescribed the drugs by a doctor for treatment of a particular medical condition.

Some prescription drugs can become addictive, especially when they are used in a manner inconsistent with their labeling or for reasons they were not prescribed. Those include narcotic painkillers like OxyContin or Vicodin, sedatives and tranquilizers like Xanax or Valium, and stimulants like Dexedrine, Adderall or Ritalin. Because the use of prescription painkillers are so prevalent, so too are the drug rehab programs designed to treat them - and for good reason.

If you have questions about prescription drug addiction or would like to learn more about how Creative Care located in Malibu, California can help you or your loved one break free from prescription drug addiction, please contact our call center 24 hours a day.

Equine Assisted Therapy And Trauma

2010-02-01T16:12:00.000-08:00

Increasingly horses are becoming trauma healers through the fast growing profession of equine assisted therapy. Trauma responses are the human mind’s attempt to cope with the unimaginable. In some survivors, trauma can produce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with symptoms ranging from depression, anxiety, and drug and alcohol abuse to rage, dissociation and thoughts of suicide. These occur because the stress accompanying traumatic events demands coping strategies of the individual that far exceed their capabilities. Equine assisted therapy offers hope and encouragement for trauma survivors.

Equine assisted therapy is an emerging form of therapeutic intervention in which horses are used as tools for clients to gain self-understanding and emotional growth. Equine assisted therapy is a type of animal assisted therapy, a field of mental health that recognizes the importance of the bond between animals and humans and the potential for emotional healing that can occur when a relationship is formed between the two species.

Equine assisted therapy pairs horses with people to overcome emotional issues, conditions, & physical trauma - similar to traditional psychological counseling. Horses are perfect for this work because they are teachers of self-awareness. Horses give us immediate and honest feedback about ourselves by reading our verbal and non-verbal communication. They often "mirror" back to us our feelings of anxiety, sadness, happiness, trust and a variety of other feelings. For many clients, working with horses can help them to discover and overcome unhealthy patterns and behaviors.

Horses offer hope and encouragement to those who interact with them. The benefits of using equine assisted therapy in combination with other therapies give the clients the opportunity to actively process, learn and practice the necessary tools so they are able to work through issues, break free from destructive life patterns and build a strong foundation of emotional and physical sobriety.

Whether your trauma stems from past or present experiences, one-time or prolonged events, you shouldn’t have to face your trauma alone. You are a survivor. Now let us help you learn how to thrive. Contact us now to learn more about how Creative Care helps trauma survivors reclaim their lives.

Bipolar Disorder Does Not Mix Well With Drug And Alcohol Addiction

2010-01-19T12:36:00.000-08:00

Bipolar disorder does not mix well with drug and alcohol addiction. Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression or manic depressive disorder, is a mental illness that often occurs alongside drug and alcohol addiction. The effect of drug and alcohol abuse on the severity of bipolar disorder has become an area of concern in recent years; prompting more research on the relationship between bipolar disorder and addiction.

It has been well documented that bipolar disorder and addiction commonly co-occur. The feelings of depression and anxiety associated with bipolar can be a factor that leads to addiction. Experts say that some bipolar patients are known to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol - although it's not recommended. In fact, they say, it does more harm than good. Bipolar patients who use drugs or alcohol have more frequent mood swings, more hospitalizations, longer hospitalizations, and higher rates of suicide attempts.

Drug and alcohol addiction co-occurring with bipolar disorder is especially dangerous because the combination can create more complications and dangerous symptoms than either disorder on its own. Therefore, it is important that specialized programs, like those at Creative Care, be available for individuals who are struggling with bipolar disorder and drug and alcohol addiction.

If you suspect that you or someone you know are suffering from bipolar disorder and/or a drug and alcohol addiction, seek help right away. The earlier you catch both disorders and begin treating them at a dual diagnosis treatment center, the better your chances of getting and staying well. If you have questions about how Creative Care can help you or your loved, or questions about bipolar disorder treatment, please contact us today. Hope starts with a phone call. 1-800-832-3280.

‘Recognizing Addictive Behavior’ An Excerpt From: Free From Addiction, By Dr. Morteza Khaleghi

2010-01-11T08:41:00.000-08:00

Addiction affects one in five people in the United States, putting families through a heartbreaking cycle of recovery and relapse. In his book, Free from Addiction, Creative Care’s founder Dr. Morteza Khaleghi empowers you to take positive steps toward recovery. Drawing on over 20 years of experience healing patients, Dr. Khaleghi’s insightful, nurturing and - above all - breakthrough book is geared to anyone looking for help with dependency. Dr. Khaleghi’s book also provides direction for spouses, parents, children, and friends, who bear the brunt of the damaging disease of addiction.

Here is an excerpt from Free from Addiction, Chapter 4 ‘Recognizing Addictive Behavior’:

How do you know if someone you care about is addicted? There are a great many misconceptions about addiction, and they often form the basis for excuses to not enter treatment. One of the most common misconceptions is: “I’m not an addict because I have a home and a family.” But drug addiction and alcoholism are hardly phenomena relegated to skid row. If anything, there are probably many more addicts who are virtually indistinguishable from everyone else – save that they drink or continue their drug use no matter how adverse the consequences.

“But I go to work every day” is another popular excuse. Behind it lies the common belief that you can be a “functioning alcoholic” or “social drug user” – the idea that as long as you’re still employed and bringing home a paycheck, you can carry on with your “vice.” In fact, even if your drinking or drug use isn’t impacting your work attendance, it is doubtless causing a host of other problems – or it will soon. Many recovering individuals will tell you that it’s a short path from managing to get by to finding it difficult to get to the office at all.

“I’m not an alcoholic/drug abuse because I don’t use around the clock. Sometimes I don’t use every day.” That’s another common excuse. The reality is that some alcoholics really don’t drink very often. They can go days, weeks, or even months without having a drop of alcohol – feats they brag about, as if abstaining for short periods underscores that they aren’t addicts. The problem, as those close to them (and, ultimately, as they themselves) know is that they have zero control over their alcohol consumption or drug use once they return to it.

Another common excuse for not seeking treatment is: “It’s my business if I drink; it’s only my own life that I’m screwing up.” It’s essential for addicts to understand that their behavior affects the lives of their loved ones as well as their own. Talking with family and friends can help here. Eventually, every addict must acknowledge that addiction is at the root of his or her problems, not bad luck or abuse by others (although these may play a role, of course).

Taking responsibility is liberating, because if people can accept that they have the power to create a bad situation, they can grasp that it’s within their power to change the situation.

To learn more about recognizing addictive behavior or to learn about the drug and alcohol treatment programs available at Dr. Khaleghi’s rehab facilities, Creative Care, please contact us today. 1-800-832-3280

Make Seeking Alcohol Treatment Your New Year's Resolution

2010-01-07T12:28:00.000-08:00

Every year when New Year's rolls around, countless Americans make seek resolutions to change their drinking habits and seek alcohol treatment. Alcoholism is a disease that affects many people, and many don’t realize just how addicting alcohol can be. This makes it hard for a person to realize that they need alcohol rehab. For some, it may be the let down of the holidays that prompts them. For others, it may take someone in an alcoholic’s life to bring it to their attention. Whatever the reason, the New Year is an excellent time to make a decision to seek alcohol treatment.

Although some people may succeed in changing their alcohol habits just by making a resolution, most will fail unless they do a bit more. According to a recent study, nearly 14 million men and woman in the United States have drinking problems. But, only about 4 million people received treatment for their disorder, it means millions upon millions of U.S. residents needed help, but did not get it. For these people alcohol rehab is an option that they cannot afford to overlook. For those dealing with alcohol addiction, the turn of the calendar can mean so much more - an opportunity to finally get clean before it’s too late.

If you feel that you can’t control your drinking problem and you need help, alcohol rehab can be a beacon, showing you the way to a sober life. At Creative Care, we are prepared to provide the support you need to keep your New Year’s resolutions. Just as those who make a resolution to lose weight will have a better chance if they get some help and support, it is the same for those with alcohol addictions or drug addictions.

Make the commitment this New Year to get help. It is never too late. For more information on alcohol addiction treatment, please contact us at Creative Care today.

Happy Holidays From Creative Care

2009-12-31T14:51:00.000-08:00

To our Friends and Alumni,

The staff at Creative Care would like to wish you and your loved ones a Happy Holiday Season and a safe and healthy New Year. As we enter our 20th year of serving our clients and alumni, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and friendship over the years.

As 2009 draws to a close, we would like to emphasize our continuing commitment to helping those individuals and families, who seek recovery from addiction, mental health issues, and other co-occurring disorders. Our goal has been and will continue to remain to help our clients achieve their maximum potential for a healthy sustainable lifestyle.

We sincerely appreciate your continued support and our warmest wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year.

Sincerely,

The Staff at Creative Care

Don’t Drive Under The Influence During The Holiday Season

2009-12-29T20:30:00.000-08:00

Arrests for driving under the influence during the holiday season don't just happen to people with a drinking problem. As we inch closer to the start of a new calendar year, state and local law enforcement will begin to ratchet up the emphasis on DUI patrol and enforcement. For many years, law enforcement has allocated extra resources to patrolling the streets and highways in an attempt to crack down on holiday drunk driving. This year will be no different.

Obviously, increased pressures and stress are often placed on many people during the holiday season. A drink or two to relax may ease the stresses, but the chances of getting arrested for a DUI should give you pause. More DUI arrests occur during the holidays than at any other time of the year. In 2008, there were 1,029 people who died in drunk-driving related crashes in California, as well as an additional 28,457 who were injured, according to state officials.

You don't have to have a drinking problem to get a DUI. Far too often people try to play the numbers game and assume they're fine to drive. People believe that given enough time, plus the amount of drinks consumed, they can get themselves under the "legal limit" and able to drive. However, we're all capable of exercising bad judgment.

That's where alternative sentencing comes in. The facts show that the majority of those arrested for DUI are not alcoholics. In fact, more than half are first offenders who are not going to repeat the experience. However, if you are arrested for DUI, having someone on your side that can make this case in court is vitally important. It can mean the difference between jail time and treatment.

If you, your client, or someone you love has received a DUI during the holidays, you should seek help. Creative Care may be able to help reduce DUI sentences and drug sentences. We serve as client advocates to the court systems, helping clients fight for addiction treatment instead of jail time. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Creative Care for more information. 1-800-832-3280

Dual Diagnosis Is A Key To Successful Recovery

2009-12-16T12:37:00.000-08:00

Most people with a dual diagnosis are able to successfully achieve recovery. Dual diagnosis comes in many forms - Any combination of mental illness (including depression, anxiety or panic, bipolar disorder and other conditions) and substance abuse (abuse or dependence related to alcohol or other drugs) qualifies as a dual diagnosis patient. The chance of recovery improves when people receive individualized dual diagnosis treatment, which means combined mental health and substance abuse treatment from the same clinician or treatment team.

Dual diagnosis is not a rare phenomenon. The National Institute of Mental Health has determined that dual diagnoses affect more than 10 million Americans each year. Unfortunately, there are only a few treatment programs specializing in complex dual diagnosis disorders. Most often, the individual is bounced between treatment systems with different and opposing treatment structures. These fragmented and uncoordinated services create a service gap for persons with a coexisting or co-occurring disorder.

Treating individuals with a dual diagnosis is a complex process, requiring a significant amount of expertise to properly identify and treat these types of conditions. Being that the individual is affected by two separate illnesses, symptoms from each illness can overlap, making accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment more difficult to identify. Nevertheless, individual treatment approaches for dual diagnosis disorders, like those used at Creative Care, provide the greatest likelihood of success for an individual suffering from drug/alcohol addictions and mental/emotional problems.

If you are addicted to drugs or alcohol and are also struggling with a co-occurring disorder like manic depression or bipolar disorder, borderline disorder, PTSD, anxiety or depression, then you need a program like that offered at Creative Care. If you have questions about how we can help you or your loved, or questions about our program, contact us at Creative Care today. We are committed to treating both the addiction and the disorder so that you or your loved one can find full and total recovery.

Holiday Depression: Beating the Holiday Blues

2009-12-10T09:47:00.000-08:00

Once again the holidays are upon us, for many, is a time of year filled with happiness and joy. But for others, it is a time filled with sadness, self-reflection, loneliness, and anxiety. And it's no wonder. In an effort to pull off a perfect holiday, you might find yourself balancing a dizzying array of demands - shopping, parties, family obligations, cooking, and cleaning, which may contribute to feeling of being overwhelmed and increasing tension.

We're supposed to look forward to the holidays and hope that they will be a time of happiness, friendliness, fellowship, and harmony. However, unfortunately despite this, the holidays can also lead to depression and overall unhappiness rightfully known as the "holiday blues." The holiday blues can result when one experiences amplified levels of stress that often come with the anxiety of the usual expectations during this time. People may also develop other stress responses such as headaches, excessive drinking, over-eating and difficulty sleeping.

According to the National Mental Health Association, reasons for feeling blue around the holidays are numerous. They range from fatigue, a result of all of the increased holiday activity, to financial limitations and family tensions. Experts say one of the fastest routes to holiday depression is unrealistic expectations.

Don't let all of the pressures of shopping, coordinating social functions, negotiating family issues and missing lost loved ones overwhelm you this holiday season. There are a number of things you can do to keep stress, anxiety and depression at bay:

• Make realistic expectations for the holiday season.
• Set realistic goals for yourself.
• Pace yourself. Do not take on more responsibilities than you can handle.
• Make a list and prioritize the important activities. This can help make holiday tasks more manageable.
• Live "in the moment" and enjoy the present.
• Look to the future with optimism.
• Don't set yourself up for disappointment and sadness by comparing today with the "good old days" of the past.
• If you are lonely, try volunteering some of your time to help others.
• Limit your consumption of alcohol, since excessive drinking will only increase your feelings of depression.
• Try something new. Celebrate the holidays in a new way.
• Spend time with supportive and caring people.
• Reach out and make new friends.
• Make time to contact a long lost friend or relative and spread some holiday cheer.
• Let others share the responsibilities of holiday tasks.
• Make time for yourself.

If despite your best efforts to remain upbeat this holiday season, you find yourself feeling down for a sustained period of time, get help. Don't try to "tough it out" alone. Creative Care located in Los Angeles, CA would honor the opportunity to help you, please contact us today for more information on depression treatment centers.

How To Recognize An Individual With An Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

2009-12-04T11:00:00.000-08:00

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is one of the most difficult to understand of all psychiatric illnesses. A person with an obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, is plagued by recurrent, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors like hand-washing or counting. These thoughts and ritualistic behaviors happen again and again and again and again.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the first symptoms usually occur in childhood, and OCD is said to afflict more than two million adults in the United States. OCD is a type of anxiety disorder in which the individual has unreasonable thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead them to engage in repetitive behaviors (compulsions). OCD occurs in a spectrum from mild to severe, but, if severe and left untreated, it can destroy a person's capacity to function at work, at school, or even in the home.

Research has shown that one of the most difficult problems in OCD is in getting family members to understand that the patient is unable to simply stop the behavior. Many times relatives become angry and upset when they are forced to deal with the time-consuming and unrealistic repetitive behaviors. With this background, it is no wonder that so many individuals who struggle with OCD do not volunteer their symptoms, and instead complain only of anxiety or depression.

It is vitally important for family members to encourage their loved ones who are struggling with OCD to seek help; otherwise, the possibilities for continued symptoms become not only inevitable but repeated in endless variations. This creates friction, frustration and even illness for family members. For more information on OCD treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Creative Care today.

Alcohol Blackouts - A Sign You May Need Alcohol Treatment

2009-11-23T12:20:00.000-08:00

Individuals who drink excessive amounts of alcohol can experience a blackout, a period during which the drinker literally does not remember what has happened in the recent past. Blackouts can range from being mildly annoying to life threateningly dangerous. I found this out first hand on the day of my 23rd Birthday when I came out of an alcohol induced blackout and found myself in jail. I remember talking my sixth or seventh “birthday shot” but that’s the last thing that I can recall about that night. I don’t remember getting into a friend’s car, I don’t remember my friend crashing his car into a palm tree doing 65 mph, and I definitely don’t remember being pulled out of the car by police and being arrested.

When I awoke in jail later that evening, I had no idea where I was or how I got there.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, blackouts are periods of alcohol-induced amnesia. During these times, an individual actively participates in events yet has no memory or only partial memory of what occurred during the blackout.

Blackouts occur more frequently when alcohol is consumed rapidly. Someone not used to consuming high levels of alcohol quickly can succumb to a blackout, which is totally out of character for them. Many college drinkers, like me, suffer from blackouts and the ramifications can range from embarrassing to illegal.

Regardless, blackouts are frightening and potentially tragic. These periods represent a dangerous extreme of impairment and are a clear warning sign of problem drinking. Luckily for me, I was only charged with public intoxication and subsequently released from jail. But this was a wakeup call that my drinking habits had gotten out of control. After this near death incident, I realized that my life was spiraling downward into depression, binge drinking, and alcohol addiction. So I sought out a residential treatment center to help me put the pieces of my life back together.

If you are concerned that perhaps you or a loved one has suffered from an alcohol induced blackout or you’ve previously thought you may be drinking excessively, please contact us at Creative Care in the Los Angles area for more information on treatment for alcohol addiction.

Warning Signs Of Cocaine Addiction And Abuse

2009-11-06T10:25:00.000-08:00

Cocaine addiction and abuse is a major problem throughout the United States. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 1.1 million people tried cocaine in 2001, and use has continued to increase since then. Cocaine addiction can start off by the person being introduced to the drug at a party. Once having tried cocaine, an individual may have difficulty predicting or controlling the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.

With drug experimentation and addiction so prevalent, chances are you know of someone who has dealt with the uphill struggle of addiction. If you have suspicions that someone you care for is using cocaine it is important to look closely at the warning signs, which may be financial as well as physical and emotional.

Cocaine is an expensive drug. Users are typically propelled into financial problems as a result thus justifying their decision to isolate themselves. They may repeatedly ask for money in order to finance their habit or sell personal belongings of sentimental value to feed their addiction.

The physical signs cocaine addicts frequently exhibit include nose bleeds, weight loss, high blood pressure, bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, constricted blood vessels, tremors, nausea, perspiration, chills, higher temperature, runny nose, sniffing, hyperactivity, as well as emotional changes.

The emotional changes include strange behavior, isolation, change in work or school performance, changes in friends, always needing money, talking quickly, suicidal, spending time away from family, missing work, stealing, financial problems, lying, withdrawn from normal activities, and no longer taking pride in personal appearance.

If you know someone who has all of a sudden changed and exhibits some or all of the symptoms above then they may be in the beginning stages of cocaine addiction. Please don’t hesitate to contact Creative Care today for cocaine addiction treatment in Los Angeles, CA. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer any questions you might have about cocaine addiction treatment.

Women And Alcohol Abuse - The Secret Lives Of Female Alcoholics

2009-10-14T10:58:00.000-07:00

Alcoholism is a disease that affects countless people all over the world. It has the power to destroy lives, break up families and kill. Despite the fact that it is so prevalent in American society, many do not know that there are many distinctive issues that face women specifically.

The number of women abusing alcohol is on the rise. And the signs of addiction are far more subtle than you might imagine. Drinking, even in small amounts, affects women differently than men. And heavy drinking, in some ways, is much more risky for women than it is for men. The effects of alcoholism has on women range from higher death rates due to suicide, accidents, and other health related issue - more than twice the rate of men.

Recent studies have shown that in the United States, it is estimated that more than 5 million women habitually drink more alcohol than is healthy. This threat to their health and well-being is a problem of national consequence as it inevitably endangers the health of their children, their families and others with whom they come in contact.

Women tend to come to addiction via different histories and mechanisms than men. For one thing, women suffer emotional and physical abuse in far greater proportion than men do. For another, it is not unusual for women to sublimate their desire to act out more than men do. For this reason, addiction for women is typically a solitary activity-one fraught with the shame and psychic pain associated with depression, anxiety, and poor self-concept.

Here is a program by the National Institutes of Health which features narratives of seven women recovering from problems associated with alcohol abuse. These stories make it clear that it's possible to miss danger signs and that social drinking can become problem drinking, which in turn can evolve into addiction.

If you have been yearning for alcohol abuse treatment that truly suits your needs as a woman, do not hesitate review Creative Care's website to learn more about our diverse treatment approaches, therapies, and professionals we make available. When you are ready to make contact, call us at 1-800-832-3280, we are ready to help.

Marijuana Addiction And Treatment – How To Stop Smoking Marijuana

2009-09-11T15:03:00.000-07:00

Marijuana addiction abuse is one of the foremost drug related problems facing society today. Marijuana addiction is a phenomenon experienced by more than 150,000 individuals each year who enter treatment for their proclaimed addiction to marijuana. Marijuana addiction is characterized as compulsive, often uncontrollable marijuana craving, seeking, and use, even when the individual knows that marijuana use is not in his or her best interest.

While not perceived by many users to be a dangerous drug, marijuana can cause serious problems with memory, learning, concentration and sexual performance. It can cause anxiety and panic attacks, and high doses can cause acute toxic psychosis with delusions, hallucinations and identity confusion.

What makes marijuana additionally dangerous is that so many young people can see no harm in smoking pot. An attitude like this can easily lead many young adults to chronic marijuana use or dependence. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration stated that, in 2006, more than 4 million Americans aged 12 and older fit the criteria for dependence or abuse of the drug, which means that these individuals continued to use the drug despite personal, mental or social harm.

Marijuana addiction can be successfully treated if addressed with the proper treatment. Unfortunately, discontinuing the use of marijuana is rarely easy. Many times a person who is addicted to marijuana will suffer withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, anxiety, aggression, and difficulty sleeping, and finds he or she needs that extra support. More young adults are now admitted to treatment centers, like Creative Care, for primary marijuana addictions than for primary addictions to heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine.

Thousands of people from all over the country have received help to beat their addiction to marijuana and other drugs and have gone on to lead successful, happy and productive lives from drugs and alcohol. If you are from the Boston, MA area and have a friend or a loved one struggling with marijuana addiction, please don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information on marijuana addiction treatment.

Intervention And Inspiration For Heroin Addiction

2009-08-24T22:01:00.000-07:00

Heroin addiction is one of the most troubling and painful addictions in the world. It brings out the worst in us. As such, heroin addiction can be one of the toughest addictions to overcome and its use is a serious problem in America. It’s currently thought that roughly 600,000 people in America need treatment for heroin addiction.

Numerous lives have been destroyed by heroin abuse. This was evident when twin sisters Sarah and Tecoa, 25, appeared on the Dr. Phil’s televisions show, The Dr. Phil House. Both sisters had a normal childhood until their mom and stepfather divorced, and their world changed forever. Sarah and Tecoa say to fill the void, they turned to heroin and sex. As a result of their heroin and crack cocaine addiction, Sarah lives minute to minute on the streets, consumed with her quest for her next fix, and selling her body to pay for her drugs. Tecoa is currently clean, but not by choice. She’s been in jail, unable to do anything but think about drugs. She’s also six months pregnant.

Heroin is so addictive that obtaining the next fix can come to dominate the addict’s life, forcing them to take actions they never would have considered before. Treatment for heroin addiction is most effective when heroin use is identified and treated early. Intervention begins with detoxification, which frees the user from the physical addiction. This is followed by involvement in a rigorous residential therapeutic community, which, upon completion, is supported by continued outpatient treatment and support in living and coping without the use of heroin.

Here is a video clip of heroin addicted sisters, Sarah and Tecoa, as they appeared on the Dr. Phil televisions show, The Dr. Phil House.

Click here for the follow up with Dr. Phil and the addicted twin sisters, Sarah and Tecoa, as they check back in after four months of drug rehabilitation at Creative Care.

Click here to see Dr. Phil meet with the founder of Creative Care, Dr. Morteza Khaleghi, about the best plan for the twins moving forward.

If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction, please don’t lose hope. Here at Creative Care we have helped many people who are addicted to heroin, including Sarah and Tecoa, onto the road of recovery. For more information, please contact us today at 1-800-832-3280.

What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment

2009-08-12T07:50:00.000-07:00

Dual diagnosis treatment is an approach used by both medical and psychiatric clinicians to treat individuals affected by two co-occurring or coexisting conditions (substance abuse and an emotional or psychiatric illness) simultaneously. Illnesses such as Bipolar Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Schizophrenia, etc., are treated along with drug and alcohol addiction through dual diagnosis treatment modalities.

Individuals suffering from dual diagnosis must be allowed to improve at their own pace. Every person responds differently to treatment or medications, and has different amounts of motivation. For these reasons, dual diagnosis therapies need to be tailored not only to patients' motivation levels but, just as importantly, to their impairment levels.

Therefore, each client should be given a psychiatric evaluation in addition to the psychological assessment along with medication evaluation, monitoring, education about the illness, symptoms’ management strategies, and increased individual therapy. In most cases the dual diagnosis treatment will focus on enhancing the person’s physical, emotional and spiritual recovery.

Dual diagnosis treatment can stabilize the symptoms of co-occurring disorders and provide the foundation for lasting recovery from substance abuse and psychiatric disorders. Ignoring a dual disorder problem can have frightening, tragic results.

For more information on dual diagnosis treatment please contact Creative Care in Los Angeles, CA today. 1-800-832-3280

Drug And Alcohol Interventions: Taking Action To Try And Save Your Loved One And Your Family

2009-08-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest things in the world is watching a loved one destroy their lives with drug and alcohol addiction, which is why intervention is necessary. The addict does not realize, or refuses to realize that there is a problem. These individuals often lose the ability to ask for help and live with the delusion they can stop on their own and do not need help. The truth is that addicts and alcoholics are trapped in a powerful, chronic, progressive and often fatal illness that left untreated has serious consequences.

Addiction can be devastating to both the addict and their friends and family. Whether it is drug and alcohol addiction, internet addiction, compulsive gambling, sexual disorders, or food disorders, professional interventionists play an integral role in showing your loved one the impact of their addiction has on the family as well as themselves.

An intervention is a deliberate process by which change is introduced into peoples' thoughts, feelings and behaviors. The overall objective of an intervention is to confront a person in a non-threatening way and allow them to see their self-destructive behavior, and how it affects themselves, family and friends. An intervention is successful when the person who needs help acknowledges the problem and admits willingness to begin the necessary treatment for their addiction(s).

For many families, an intervention is a last resort. If you have a loved one who is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction but he or she is resistant to treatment, sometimes the best chance for hope is to have a professional interventionist work with you and your family to encourage them to get the help they need. For more information, please contact Creative Care in Malibu, CA today. Your decision to get help for your loved one may be the only thing that will turn the tide.

Drug And Alcohol Rehabilitation In Malibu

2009-07-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

Drug and alcohol rehab at Creative Care in Malibu, CA is where people from the four corners of the world come to heal. The lush grounds, elegant residences, mild climate and beautiful views of the Pacific make it a perfect refuge for building a lasting foundation of recovery. This is Malibu – “27 Miles of Scenic Beauty.”

Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Malibu Mountains, Creative Care is the premiere sanctuary for healing individuals with drug and alcohol abuse, dual diagnosis, and co-occurring conditions. At Creative Care, our integrated treatment program is personalized to meet each individual's needs. Our highly trained group of professionals work together to create a treatment plan based on the specific needs of the individual. This allows us to help our clients change addictive behavior patterns. Together, we can address the underlying causes and effects.

Our programs are designed and suited for different needs. Whether you choose an extended, long-term residential stay or a shorter 30-day treatment program, Creative Care provides effective drug and alcohol rehabilitation that can help put an end to the suffering. If you or a loved one are considering drug and alcohol rehab for an addiction, please give us a call for more information. 1-800-832-3280.

Alcohol And Anxiety: Alcohol Aggravates Anxiety Symptoms

2009-07-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

Alcohol and anxiety can be a treacherous combination. For years I struggled with binge drinking, social anxiety and panic attacks. They started in college; usually after a night of binge drinking. I never remembered passing out but I do remember waking up. My brain would be flooded with questions, “Where am I? What the hell did I do last night? Where’s my other shoe? Why is there puke all over my shirt? And whose puke is that?”

I felt an overwhelming sense of dread, my heart wouldn’t stop racing and I’d broke out in a cold sweat. I thought I was losing my mind. It didn’t stop there. I found myself consuming larger and larger amounts of alcohol whenever I was in a social situation. But the only problem was that when I started drinking, I didn’t know when or how to stop. As a result, my panic attacks increased. They we’re gaining in intensity to the point where they were difficult to handle. I began to lose control of my life to a certain extent and I was unable to focus my attention to where it needed to be focused. So, I drank more and had more anxiety attacks.

Anxiety disorders and alcohol dependence co-occur at an alarming rate. According to a recent report conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), about 20 percent of Americans with a current anxiety or mood disorder (such as depression) also have a current alcohol or other substance abuse disorder, and about 20 percent of those with a current alcohol/substance abuse disorder also have a current anxiety or mood disorder.

People with anxiety disorders are up to three times more likely to have an alcohol or other substance abuse disorder than those without an anxiety disorder. But, what begins as a way to cope with social anxiety can quickly have the opposite effect of increasing distress.

The good news is both anxiety and substance abuse are treatable conditions. For any of you that are currently using alcohol to appease your anxiety issues, please realize this not a cure. Luckily for me, my family and friends noticed my downward spiral into anxiety, depression and alcohol abuse. For more information on getting anxiety treatment and/or alcohol treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Creative Care today.

Alternative Sentencing: Cooperation Rather Than Confrontation

2009-07-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Traditionally, alternative sentencing is a hard sell because the justice system is about confrontation rather than cooperation. Alternative sentencing provides an offender with the opportunity to get help for a substance abuse problem that contributed to their offense and should make them less likely to offend again.

The criminal justice system refers about 655,000 people every year for drug and alcohol rehab, which accounts for roughly 36 percent of all admissions. Most clients are under age 25, have never been in treatment before, and usually respond well to treatment. What may surprise you, though, is that alcohol is the number rated one drug of choice for individuals in treatment.

While court-ordered treatment is never pleasant, it is a golden opportunity to help the person develop a positive understanding of him/herself. Through a variety of traditional and non-traditional therapies and experiences, these individuals will have the opportunity to reclaim their personal dreams and goals awakening an authentic relationship with life.

Alternative Sentencing is a viable legal option instead of punishment. If you, your client, or someone you love has criminal charges pending against them due to drug or alcohol involvement, we may be able to help in minimizing jail time exposure while providing appropriate alcohol, drug, and/or behavioral health treatment. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-800-832-3280 for more information on drug and alcohol treatment at Creative Care in Malibu, CA.

Get Help Recognizing The Signs And Symptoms Of Dual Diagnosis

2009-07-22T10:57:00.000-07:00

The more you know about dual diagnosis, the more clearly you will be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of someone who is struggling with these life challenges, and perhaps help this individual to live a healthier or more fulfilling life.

Dual Diagnosis, also known as a co-occurring disorder, is used to describe a person who suffers from a psychiatric condition and a substance abuse problem. Dual diagnosis can be difficult to identify because the symptoms of one disorder often mimic the symptoms of the other disorder. Many of the symptoms of drug and alcohol abuse, such as extreme anxiety, depression, paranoia, delusions and hallucinations are nearly identical to symptoms of mental illness.

Dual diagnosis can cause a great deal of problems for the individual, the family and for friends. The consequences of these disabling conditions vary according to what addictions, disorders, pains or traumatic experiences are involved. The common signs and symptoms which arise out of the struggle with dual diagnosis include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, or helplessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Increase or decrease in energy levels
• Sleep disturbances
• Poor performance at work or school
• Loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable
• Difficulty with concentration or making decisions
• Changes in appetite
• Stealing from friends and family
• Increased agitation and/or restlessness
• Continuation of negative behavior despite known risks
• Change in Hygiene or grooming habits
• Distorted thinking
• Increased feeling of fear and/or anxiety

Acknowledgement of a dual diagnosis and/or a co-occurring disorder allows for awareness, understanding and the opportunity for change. If you or someone in your family is exhibiting any of the characteristics above, they may have a dual diagnosis and need to receive professional help immediately. For more information on dual diagnosis treatment, please contact us at Creative Care in Los Angeles, CA today.

The Importance Of Getting Treatment For Bipolar Disorder

2009-07-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

Treatment for bipolar disorder can help you live life on your own terms, without the interference of mood swings. Effective bipolar disorder treatment relieves symptoms, reduces the frequency and intensity of manic and depressive episodes, and restores your ability to function.

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. From high to low. From mania to depression. From recklessness to listlessness. These symptoms are different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through from time to time.

People with bipolar disorder experience unusually intense emotional states that occur in distinct periods called "mood episodes." An overly joyful or overexcited state is called a manic episode, and an extremely sad or hopeless state is called a depressive episode. Sometimes, a mood episode includes symptoms of both mania and depression. People with bipolar disorder also may be explosive and irritable during a mood episode.

Bipolar disorder tends to worsen if it is not treated. Over time, a person may suffer more frequent and more severe episodes than when the illness first appeared. Also, delays in getting the correct diagnosis and treatment make a person more likely to experience personal, social, and work-related problems.

If you suspect that you or someone you know are suffering from bipolar disorder, seek help right away. The earlier you catch bipolar disorder and begin treating it, the better your chances of getting and staying well. An experienced bipolar disorder treatment center like Creative Care in Los Angeles, CA can get you the treatment you need. Hope starts with a phone call. 1-800-832-3280.

Denial In Drug And Alcohol Addiction Is A Serious Problem

2009-07-16T12:06:00.000-07:00

Denial in drug and alcohol addiction is a serious problem. Drug and alcohol addiction can strike virtually anyone. Despite common stereotypes, it doesn't limit itself to a certain age, sex, race or socioeconomic status. This problem is especially challenging to deal with because many addicts/alcoholics get stuck in denial and refuse to admit their problem or the effects it is having on them and the people around them. By not admitting the problem, they can avoid facing the need to stop using the drugs.

Denial can be described as a way in which the mind refuses to accept a problem. It is a safety valve for handling stress. One way to handle an overwhelming problem that causes a great deal of fear is to deny that it exists. That belief can be so strong it is impossible to distinguish what is true and what is false.

Denial is so common among individuals who have become addicted to alcohol and other drugs that addiction has been referred to as the disease of denial. Indeed, people in recovery from substance abuse are typically surprised at the depth of their denial as it unfolds before them during the recovery process.

Denial can be the fatal aspect of addiction. This is true because it leaves the addict/alcoholic vulnerable to taking greater risks for longer periods of time. It impairs judgment and results in self-delusion, preventing the addict/alcoholic from seeing and understanding the implications and consequences of his or her behavior until it is too late. Even documented evidence to the contrary won't persuade the individual differently.

People honestly do not know when they are "in denial." It’s not that denial is invisible. It isn’t. We can often see denial as it occurs in other people; we just can't see it in ourselves. Do have a friend or family member who is currently in denial of their drug or alcohol addiction? Knowing the signs of denial could help you or someone you care for get their life on a healthy track. For more information, please contact us at Creative Care today.

Alcohol And Drug Rehab

2009-07-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

The difficulty in using alcohol and drugs is that this behavior can lead to severe emotional problems, which forces the individual to sink deeper into his or her addiction, thus furthering this dangerous and debilitating cycle. Creative Care understands the great impact drugs can have on your life. Our specialized drug and alcohol treatment programs can help you or someone you know overcome this powerful addiction.

Often misunderstood, it is very clear that alcohol and drug rehab is an important part of the process of recovery from addiction. A drug rehab facility like Creative Care helps individuals learn about their addiction, develop tools for coping skills, and learn identify the warning signs for relapse. This process allows leads you to help yourself to understand and begin to recover from addiction while you reclaim your dreams and reach for your life goals, and address the needs of your family.

At Creative Care we offer a comprehensive treatment approach, in which we tailor individualized treatment plans to meet the needs of you or your loved one. The goal of our dedicated and compassionate staff is to assist you or your loved one in their transformation from a person who is suffering from alcoholism, addiction and emotional pain, into a sober, healthy individual who is in control of their life.

If you or someone you know has developed a alcohol and drug addiction, it is important to contact an alcohol and drug addiction rehab facility immediately. Through detox and counseling, drug rehab helps treat alcohol and drug addiction at the core - and helps individuals discover the strategies needed to live a sober life.

Cocaine Addiction Treatment

2009-07-13T16:05:00.000-07:00

Drug addictions are difficult to overcome, and cocaine addiction is one of the most challenging. Cocaine addiction is a habit that has ruined millions of lives. Although it causes severe harm to the user, cocaine also affects the lives of others, including the user's family, friends and coworkers. In the United States, it is an especially large problem and to help those who suffer from it, there are cocaine treatment programs across the country.

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that attacks the brain and central nervous system. The more it is used, the greater the addiction becomes. Cocaine addiction is created through both a physical and mental drug dependency. Use of cocaine over longer time periods has multiple health consequences; most dangerously it is associated with a lifetime risk of heart attack. Cocaine addiction treatment should be sought at the first signs of abuse.

The first step to truly overcoming your cocaine addiction is to explore the different options that are available to you regarding cocaine treatment. The truth, when it comes to cocaine treatment, is that there are a number of available options, and the best way to get help is to figure out which cocaine treatment option is going to meet your needs the best. When it comes to most forms of cocaine addiction, however, the best solution is to seek a long term, inpatient cocaine treatment, because this will result in a more thorough treatment and more support from physicians and counselors, which are keys to seeking cocaine treatment success.

It is important to remember that it’s never too early or too late to seek cocaine addiction treatment. Cocaine addiction is treatable, and you can recover. Get the help you deserve. Call 1-800-832-3280. The cocaine addiction treatment programs at Creative Care are designed to help you recover from a cocaine addiction with the specific treatment you need.