Acute substance abuse problems and medical tourism

July 28, 2015

Acute substance abuse problems and medical tourism: Would you travel abroad for addiction treatment?

Acute substance abuse problems and medical tourism, you realize that the most important thing is getting the problem sorted out. Therefore if traveling abroad would help then it is necessary and must be done.

The trend of treatment is changing from time to time due to various reasons. There are some illnesses that make people feel that they cannot be attended to from their locality again because of several factors. And as a result of this many are opting to seek for the same treatment far away from their localities. In this case distance may not matter but the interest and ability to meet the cost becomes the key factors for consideration. We spoke to doctor Dalal Akoury MD and founder of AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center about her experience with clients in her over two decades of practice. And she said that addiction treatment is one that is being sought for by many across the borders. According to her most of her clients who are not residence of state are concerned about stigma. As it has been stated severally on this link that in the olden days individuals who were suffering from substance abuse were actually seen to be of weak character. And even though things are now changing, pockets of people are still harboring this old school of thought hence the reason of acute substance abuse problem and medical tourism in most parts of the globe.

If you are still wondering what medical tourism is then you are on time for the most cherished source of medical information. This simply refers to the practice of traveling across international borders in order to obtain health care. Ideally there are many reasons for why people might choose to do this but the most common are that it can be significantly cheaper to get treatment abroad, and it can also mean better options. Those individuals who are dealing with a substance abuse problem are now following the example of the medical tourist. They too are looking at their options in foreign countries and an increasing number of them are deciding that traveling abroad for addiction treatment just makes sense.

Acute substance abuse problems and medical tourism: Importance of choosing the right rehab

In order for the individual to have the greatest chance of success in recovery they need to choose the right rehab. The problem is that the facility that might be right for one person might not be such a good option for someone else. If there was one facility that was right for everyone the rest of the rehabs could follow this template and this could help to eliminate addiction completely. The reality is that no such facility exists and there can only be a rehab that is right for the individual. This is why when choosing where to go the individual needs to consider their own needs and how the treatment program will match those needs. For example, some people are quite secular in their beliefs, and they might struggle in a rehab that focused too much on spirituality. On the other hand, those people who have strong religious beliefs will probably benefit from a rehab that emphasizes spirituality.

Even if the individual knows what type of rehab is most likely to work for them it does not always mean that this option will be available to them. The most common reason for this situation is that the individual feels they would do better with some type of private facility, but they do not feel able to afford it. One way to overcome this obstacle to choosing the right rehab is to consider traveling abroad for addiction treatment. This can also mean that the individual has new alternatives that would not be available to them back in their home country.

Acute substance abuse problems and medical tourism: Benefits of traveling abroad for addiction treatment

People do not just travel overseas for no reason there must be some good things that motivate them to travel across the borders in search for treatment. The following are some of the benefits of traveling abroad for addiction treatment:

It means that the individual may have recovery options that would not be available to them at home. Some of the international rehabs offerunique programs that might be just what the individual needs.
By traveling abroad the individual will often find cheaper options than they would find in their home country. This could mean that even those with a modest salary can benefit from a stay in a moreluxurious facility.
There are some individuals who will not want other people to know about their stay in rehab. One way to protect their anonymity is to travel abroad to stay in a rehab in most of these placed they will not even need to use their real name further offering them the best of protection from any stigma.
It is possible to attend a facility in an exotic location such asThailand. By entering recovery the individual is building a foundation for a better future and it seems fitting that they do this in a special place.
Some people often feel or view rehab abroad as a reward for doing the right thing.
There will be some discomforts related to the rehab process that are unavoidable (e.g. being away from family), but there will be other discomforts that will be complete avoidable (e.g. staying in an environment that is not conducive to recovery). By choosing a foreign facility the individual may be able to eliminate many of the unnecessary discomforts associated with this type of treatment.
Combining rehab with a foreign holiday can make the whole process more meaningful. It will ensure that the start of the journey into sobriety will be special as well as memorable.
Some people will choose a remote location with stunning scenery. This ambience will make their stay in rehab all the more comfortable.

Finally the objective of traveling or medical tourism will always remain the same when it comes to fighting drug addiction. It is important to note that traveling alone will not offer the solution but all other factors of treatment must be observed if any meaningful result is to be attained. If the patient is still in denial and he/she is flown abroad for recovery treatment, such individual will not be able to optimize on their medical tourism and will probably return the same or even worse as they left. Therefore there must be good preparedness before this decision of traveling is arrived at. It will be very important that you talk with professionals in your region to help you understand some of the coping needs that you must observe. If you are looking for where to get this information, then look no further because we are here for you. Talk to us at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center and we will be of great help to you in all matters pertaining to drug addiction recovery process.

Acute substance abuse problems and medical tourism: Would you travel abroad for addiction treatment

Why Exercises During Addiction Recovery?

July 26, 2015

Roles of Exercises and Addiction Recovery at a Glance

Addictive drug substances influence production of endorphins. Similarly exercises promote release of endorphins. This is one of the body’s feel good chemicals that makes both drug users and those who exercise “feel high”, with the former group developing increased tolerance for drugs. Whereas long-term exposure to alcohol damages parts of the brain’s white matter, several reports indicate exercises causes neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to recover from an injury. A commonly cited research study conducted in Colorado found that regular aerobic exercises like cycling or running helped protect the brain against this damage. Other than these two exercises and addiction recovery have the following commonalities.

Exercises Acts Alternative Source of Happiness

As mentioned earlier exercises promote release of endorphins. These chemical substances bring a sense of joy and happiness in the body. By doing the same they act an alternative source of the same. Patients who exercise are therefore more likely to reduce substance abuse, by extension they may as well abstain. Also it is much easier for them to opt for exercises in places of drugs.

Exercises

Exercises of Reduce Mental Damage

Mental illnesses are often caused by anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, or bipolar disorder. These mental conditions often drive many people to using drugs in the first place. However influence of the same on abating these mental disorders reduces with time, hence driving them into a situation of increased dosage, overdose and perennial drug abuse. Similarly, regular exercise has the ability to reduce these conditions and is more effective even on long-term basis.

Exercise Help Reduce Stress

Drug addicts get caught up with addiction while trying to escape stress. Based on various media reports it is a major cause of addiction. Conversely regular exercising is a proven alternative to dealing with stress. It changes how cortisol, one of the body’s stress hormones is processed in the body thereby increasing tolerance of stress.

Exercises Alters Brain Response to Drugs

The brain is automated to respond to its environment in a process neuroplasticity. Extended exposure to drugs causes the brain to develop neuron pathways around the drug substance, thereby increasing its recognition and tolerance. In a similar process the brain may reject other substances with different chemical compositions. For instance some raw egg-yolk may be given to a person with excess alcohol in their blood stream to induce vomiting. Just like in the case of alcohol addiction, regular exercising increases the brain’s plasticity hence less difficult to quit drugs.

Exercises

Exercising Offers Alternative Leisure

Many addicts take drugs as a pastime activity. On the other hand one of the greatest fears of an addict is the possibility of a boring life after addiction. Regular exercising however fills these gaps perfectly for many hence it becomes easier to quit.

Regular Exercise Good for Sleep

Even though this is more of a secondary cause of addiction, sleep deprivation is an underlying reason for many such predisposing factors. Successive lack of sleep for instance causes stress and anxiety. It is common knowledge sleep has a positive effect on these. And the result on addiction recovery is no less important.

Exercise Enhances Self-Esteem

When a person concludes an exercise regime, s/he gets an immediate reward, accomplishment. Creating novel routes for rewards very well offer alternatives to drug abuse. Similarly, exercises normally lead to improved self-esteem, including a boost to one’s image from and a better shape. Great shape gained through repetitive exercises with time is quickly noticed by friends who will often offer commendation that all together reinforces the need to do exercise and if you may stop addiction.

Regular Exercising Instills Discipline

Adhering to an exercise schedule is in itself a sense of discipline. Regular exercising also instills a sense of order. It shows one cares about attaining a healthy life. Regular exercising does shape one’s behavior, leading to development of more desirable characteristics. It may also rejuvenate in an addict the desire to live a more healthy life, hence may reconsider addiction recovery.

In a commonly cited study on exercises and addiction recovery some 60 to 90 percent drug addicts who try to quit on their own often relapse within a year, mostly this is due to snags keeping up necessary lifestyle changes. In a guided research program, participants steadily increased levels exercising for a period over 12 weeks. Together they met as a group to receive extra coaching on how to increase their physical fitness, offering peer support. Finally, the participants received $5 each for group and exercise session they attended, giving them the motivation to continue. Result of the 12-week schedule, involved the participants’ average number of drinks per day drop from 13 to two, with effects going for at least three months.

For more information on the above, click http://www.integrativeaddiction2015.com. The link will be your guide to sign up for the conference as well give you more incisive information about exercises and addiction recovery as well as a backgrounder about speakers lined up for the mega integrative addiction conference. You may as well call Dr. Dalal Akoury, founder of the Integrative Addiction Institute and founding member of International Organization of Integrative Addiction physicians. She is also expected to speak about her specialties at the upcoming August integrative Conference.

Roles of Exercises and Addiction Recovery at a Glance

PTSD and Addiction Cause-And-Effect!

July 26, 2015

Cause-And-Effect Relationship between PTSD and Addiction

It is a common medical practice addicts are tested for co-occurring physical and mental conditions each time they seek treatment. In many of those occasions they have actually been diagnosed with various forms of the same. Very much common among them is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). There are several accounts as to the connection between these two. One such theory is based on the fact many victims of PTSD have drug addiction or related issues. And there are available data that pretty much supports this.

According to a commonly cited report, an estimated 8% of Americans have suffered PTSD at one point in their lives. Out of them 34% men and 27% women have recorded drug addiction. Again, 52% men and 28% women victims of PTSD tested alcoholics. Given the statistics, PTSD ranks very highly among predisposing factors to drug addiction; that is, when compared with other forms of co-occurring physical and mental medical conditions.

From PTSD to Addiction; Escape Theory

The first explanation, rather one that is considered too obvious is that patients with PTSD related symptoms including: insomnia, pervasiveness, nightmares and mood swings sought escape in drugs. This according to proponents of the theory was one way the patients got reprieve from physical, psychosocial and the emotional pains.

With time more exploratory studies have been done. Some of these opine, suggest the reason many PTSD victims are diagnosed with drug addiction was broader than that. They do not however contradict the fact the paradigm of escape has offered a good part of the reason PTSD and addiction have such a relationship. For instance alcohol is a great depressant, given the statistics above it could as well be true very many resort to drinking the addictive substance in order to discharge their “pains”.

Cause-Effect PTSD Addiction Relationship; Increased-Risk Theory

Other than that the increased-risk philosophy also posits a cause-and-effect kind of relationship between PTSD and drug addiction. Proponents here argue before PTSD can develop a traumatic incident must occur first. They also posit the drug abusers often expose themselves to higher risks of such traumatic events. The point here is in as much as various PTSD symptoms very much pushes victims into drug use and addiction the vice versa is also true; that sometimes those already addicted may as well through their acts develop PTSD.

PTSD AND ADDICTION

From Addiction to PTSD; Vulnerability Theory

Some scientific researchers also argue whether PTSD symptoms come first or last, they have the ability to either cause an addiction or PTSD or make them perennial. Vulnerability theorists do not concern themselves with which causes what between these two, rather they concentrate on effects of PTSD symptoms and experiences of addicts on the functioning of their brains. Intoxicants for instance they argue have damaging effects on the brain that may make it very difficult for an addict to recover in this case therefore making it possible they develop persistent PTSD.

It has been established genetic factors make some people more susceptible to drug and alcohol addiction. In a recent study conducted by UCLA’s Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, it was found there is a link between particular genetic components and symptoms of PTSD. While there are no specific explanations yet as to why PTSD and addiction commonly co-exists, it is anticipated continued research may provide the missing links.

Effects Created by Co-Occurring Drug Addiction and PTSD

Effects of addiction far go beyond influencing a person’s body functions to both their physical and psychosocial lives. They include among others; physical pains, mental and emotional pains, relationship problems, work related problems, anger, memory loss, family quarrels and fits, depression, irritability, and problems falling asleep. PTSD pretty much has similar effects on its victims, which makes people who exhibit both PTSD and Addiction often perennial problems, for them these issues never seize. Such include: They tend to have escalated forms of these symptoms, hence making it much more difficult to get treated from any either drug addiction or PTSD.

Treatment Options for PTSD and Addiction

There are well over 17 medically recognized symptoms linked to PTSD, which clearly indicates just how troublesome it can be in the lives of victims. It is therefore prudent to seek relevant treatment for PTSD while seeking addiction related therapy. On the other hand drug addiction has a tendency to influence recognition of the brain to various drugs and related medical conditions. Drug addiction therefore has the capacity to make healing from PTSD very difficult. Treating both PTSD and addiction therefore requires a simultaneous approach.

PTSD AND ADDICTION

The first stride when for a patient with both conditions is to talk to his/her physician and seek more information about the treatment options. Medical scientific research evidence shows patients with both PTSD and SUD symptoms generally improve when provided with treatment options that addresses both conditions, which may involve among others the following:

For more information on the above, click http://www.integrativeaddiction2015.com. The link will also guide you on how to sign up for an upcoming Integrative Addiction Medicine Conference. You will also find a backgrounder about speakers lined up for the conference. If you need to learn some of the most recent studies on both PTSD, addiction, genetic transfer along generations, their relation, and more treatment options, the event is a must attend.

CAUSE-AND-EFFECT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PTSD AND ADDICTION

The difficult nature of abused substances

July 25, 2015

The difficult nature of abused substances: Getting help for addiction

The difficult nature of abused substances is causing many people to plunge into addiction and immediate help is very vital if health is to be restored.

It is because of the difficult nature of the abused substances that many people across the globe are suffering from the various drug addictions. Experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center are very concern about the ever escalating prevalence of addiction in most of our communities. And it is for that reason doctor Dalal Akoury founded this facility to primary use her over twenty years of experience lasting solutions to the suffering communities across the globe. According to these experts, drug addiction help is usually sought for only when an individual realizes that the drug they are using has power over their life to the point where they are losing control and instead it is the drug that is taking dominance of their lives.

In the meantime let us try to understand what we are talking about as we progress into the discussion. Drug addiction can be defined as a chronic, often relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug use. Even though drug addiction is that dangerous, the irony of its inception is that all addicts were introduced to drugs on a willing basis. People are often not forced into drugs; therefore it is worth noting that the initial decision to take drugs in most cases is voluntary. There are so many ways through which people are introduced to the drug, however it may not matter how you began whether it was through experimenting recreationally or having been prescribed medication for any number of symptoms, the consequences doesn’t change. However the problem of addiction may not affect its victims in the same way, with some people being fairly strong to the point of not displaying the negative responses, and on the other hand other users will find themselves, over a period of time, relying on the effects produced by the drug. Remember t addiction entrance will always be very easy and its elimination mat be a toll order. Therefore seeking for timely help for drug addiction is a pro-active step toward taking back control of one’s life. You can begin this process by scheduling for an appointment with doctor Akoury today for the commencement right away.

The difficult nature of abused substances: Why medical help for addiction is necessary

While varying drugs can produce different effects physically, all abused substances share the common effect of repeated use altering ways in which the brain and body function. Whether a medication or illicit drug, the brain typically releases serotonin or dopamine generating a calming, sometimes euphoric feeling which becomes associated with taking the substance. This disrupts natural levels of these chemicals, so feelings of depression or anxiety can emerge when the substances effects have diminished. Changes in the brain caused by repeated drug abuse can affect a person’s memory, ability to learn, concentration and ability to make sound decisions. Depending on the drug, physical effects can include: heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, brain damage, sexual dysfunction, reproductive damage, aggressive or violent behavior, tumors, seizures and death. Once chemically dependent on a substance, detoxing can be dangerous, so receiving medical help for drug addiction is vital to making a successful and healthy recovery.

The difficult nature of abused substances: Finding drug addiction help globally

Doctor Akoury is saying that drug use is a global phenomenon, effecting individuals from every ethnic and socio-economic status without any element of discrimination. Specific drug trends vary from country to country as well as by generation. Globally, the most commonly abused substances are alcohol, cannabis, opiates, and cocaine. While some countries practice different management for substance abuse, drug addiction help and treatment is available in many places across the globe. Drug use has been present in every culture throughout history, and similar to many medical illnesses, there is no sure-fire way to avoid addiction to drugs without practicing abstinence. The global scale of drug production and distribution has impacted the modern world dramatically, increasing the potency and risk involved when experimenting with today’s substances. Reports show an increase in prescription drug use and methamphetamine use. Globally, drug use is expected to rise by 25% over the next few decades as a result of rapid urbanization in developing countries.

The difficult nature of abused substances: Co-occurring disorders and recovery from substance abuse

Addiction is commonly associated with mental and behavioral health conditions, and integrated treatment programs will often help with drug addiction and with co-occurring disorders. Drug abuse often begins with self-medicating symptoms of depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. And remember that both the mental health issue and the addiction have their own unique symptoms. Therefore when someone is losing the ability to control their substance use, there will be a demonstration of the consequences of such actions. Missing work or preforming badly as a result of withdrawal symptoms will affect relationships and stability in all areas of an addict’s life. Mental and behavioral health problems will also increase as a result of substance abuse left untreated. Substance abuse problems and mental health issues don’t get better without treatment. Defeating the problem of denial and admitting that you have a problem is the first step towards recovering control and enjoying life again.

The difficult nature of abused substances: The effects of untreated drug addiction

The variety of effects and consequences for drug abuse can extend into every facet of an individual’s life. Whether it’s within the individual’s home, at workplace, social activities or physical and emotional well-being, without finding help for drug addiction it’s not common for anyone to continue managing their life successfully while still engaged with their substance of choice. It is however, common for addicts to begin compromising values, cutting out things previously found enjoyable and diminishing one’s life in a downward spiral. Take note that an addict will eventually do anything to get their substance of choice which can lead to family disintegration, loss of employment, failure in school, domestic violence, child abuse, crime, violence, institutionalization and even death. While the statistics are staggering they do little to fully describe the degree of destructive public health and safety implications. Therefore if you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse problems, it is imperative to seek help as significantly as you would for any other chronic, relapsing disease, such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease; doctor Akoury a veteran addiction experts is always in very good moods of helping you get your life back if only you can call her today and schedule for you appointment with her. The moment you do that she will be able to professionally address you individual conditions and bring your drug addiction to manageable levels successfully and with lasting treatment that will deliver back your life.

The difficult nature of abused substances: Getting help for addiction

The compound nature of addiction and recovery

July 24, 2015

The compound nature of addiction and recovery: The destructive nature of substance abuse

The compound nature of addiction and recovery can be so complex for addicts that if they are not properly rehabilitated, then the whole society will suffer the consequences of drug addiction uncontrollably.

The compound nature of addiction and recovery is one fact that many people who haven’t experienced addictive behavior in their lives do not understand. In fact this ignorant of facts is the reason why people are becoming addicted to drugs. People have this wrong perception that drug abuse, alcoholism and addictions are occurring because of social problems and the imagination that those who take drugs are morally weak. One common misunderstanding is that drug abusers should be able to quit taking drugs if they are only willing to change their behavior, the reason behind this being that if they tried hard enough or cared enough, they could change. This is not really how it should be, doctor Akoury is saying that what is often underrated is the profound complexity of drug addiction that because it is a disease that impacts the brain, changing addictive behavior is not simply a matter of willpower alone. She continue to say that it is important to appreciate that drugs are chemicals which interact with the brain’s communication system and disrupt the way nerve cells normally send, receive, and process information. In all our postings about drug addiction we have ben highlighting several facts touching on the ways substance abuse deteriorates the life of an individual and why. You can go through our both previous and future articles so that you can get the relevant information about the entire preventive, causes, signs and symptoms, treatment procedures and all that you need to know about drug addiction. If you have further concerns, you can schedule for an appointment with doctor Dalal Akoury (MD) and founder of AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center and she will be able to professionally address all your concerns.

Besides that, when we appreciate that the compound nature of addiction recovery takes place when an individual recognizes he or she has a destructive substance abuse problem they can’t control and that they’re motivated to change and are willing to seek help. The at this point meaningful treatment process can begin. However while it is true that medical detoxification will safely remove harmful substances from an individual’s body, it is very important to have at the back of your mind that addiction is as much as a psychological disorder as a physical dependence. It therefore means that facing life challenging situations typically prompt substance abuse and won’t necessarily cease cropping up; therefore it is important that those in recovery process should honestly evaluate all those elements that contribute to their addiction. And remember that the process of recovery is a continuous one and it does not only happen in a treatment facility, but in the daily life of an addict after they leave the rehabilitation facility. Experts at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center are reporting that recovery being a continuous process it involves creating a new life based on principals that promote sobriety, health and well-being.

The compound nature of addiction and recovery: Finding total liberty in addiction recovery

The genesis of finding total liberty in addiction recovery is rested on the understanding the deep connections between the psychological, emotional and physical aspects of addiction which are at the heart of every addiction recovery program. Doctor Akoury recommends that in order to break the habit and culture of relying on substance abuse as a solution, it is very important that the individual makes simultaneous changes in their attitudes and coping skills taking into consideration that drugs are chemicals which not only change the way the brain works, but often have been used to numb or dull unwanted emotions by the user. When thoughts and feelings begin returning from the haze of drug abuse, their force and clarity can be shocking to an addict, who has in many ways stunted their ability to appropriately manage them. That is why it is always advisable that this be done in good time since early recovery can be a roller coaster of relief, anxiety and a spectrum of emotional responses while an addict begins to confront their life again. The tools learned in treatment will prepare a recovering addict for the challenges ahead, ensuring they have the help and support necessary to achieve freedom from addiction and have the full restoration of their lives to live it to the fullest.

The compound nature of addiction and recovery: Addiction recovery’s program of relapse prevention

Like we have mentioned before that recovering from the scourge of addiction is a continuous process it is important to note that there is a lot more in staying sober than just trying to cultivate the strength and spirit of saying no to one’s substance of choice. The training and treatment being done during addiction recovery will prepare an individual to prevent falling back into his or her old habits of using alcohol or drugs and also to help then in dealing with all the problems and stress. Relapse prevention is a cognitive-behavioral approach with the goal of identifying and preventing high-risk situations and understanding warning signs. It is worth noting that for an effective prevention to be realized, it has to begin well before the opportunity for relapse occurs, with a comprehensive plan accounting for social interactions, emotional triggers and the development of positive coping mechanisms.

Finally we must appreciate that staying sober is not going to be a one man show, it is essential that recovering addicts and alcoholics interact on a regular basis with other people including those who understand the complex nature of addiction and who can offer moral support. Remember that in the process of recovery, there are times when individuals are feeling isolated by the disease process itself and having a figurative set of tools to handle these situations is important. Cognitive techniques provide people with ways to reframe habitual thinking patterns and change the process, this is what we want to offer to you at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center and paired with behavioral techniques including the use of lifestyle modifications to promote individuals healthy coping mechanisms, and keep sobriety as a stable way of life. Therefore if you have any further concerns then you can now schedule for a one on one appointment with doctor Akoury for that session of professional sharing.

Tag Archives: Substance abuse