Mar 30 2007
Detox
Each day we are exposed to many harmful chemicals and pollutants
either through food, air, working conditions or drugs; whether they are
prescription pharmaceuticals or illicitly consumed substances. And,
every aspect of the body is affected because the toxins are stored within
the organs, the blood, the different cells, tissues, and the colon.
Autopsies show that oftentimes 80% build-up of pollutants lie in the colon alone! The consequence of toxic pollution could be death. So then,
for people seeking to live a healthy life, the goal or objective is to
purge all dangerous poisons from the body. But research tells us that
the body cannot always rid itself of these harmful agents by itself.
Detoxification, or detox is the process by which the body must be
cleansed of any injurious substances, or toxins that come from the foods,
chemicals or drugs we have ingested.
There are many types of detox programs depending on the need of the
individual. If the proclivity to eat bad foods is causing problems,
there are colon cleanses, wheat grass diets, fasting and more. This is
one type of detox.
For those who are addicted to alcohol or drugs, a different detox
treatment would be prescribed. To be free of substance abuse, it is
imperative to be part of a professionally monitored environment. Patients
who are recovering often struggle with the physical and psychological
symptoms of addiction. It may be necessary to administer some
medication to help fight the addiction, like methadone. Only highly trained doctors, therapists and staff are equipped to treat an addictive personality type. Part of the alcohol or drug treatment is also supporting and equipping a recovering individual to live healthier by changing, diet, exercise habits and thought patterns. Detoxing from certain toxic relationships is also recommended!
Identifying and changing old habits is critical. That is why it is
of utmost importance to find the right detox program suited to the
individual. Every person has special needs. Fortunately, with the
Internet and so many more awareness and support groups today, both private and
government-run, there is a wide variety of excellent rehab centers to
choose from. Some focus on conventional methods while some concentrate
on holistic methods. In addition to having so much to choose from,
rehab can be available to any one, affluent or underprivileged.
While it is daunting to take that first step in searching for the
right environment, it is never hopeless. And the reward is
priceless—life!
The detox environment should assure the patient’s comfort, as
healing is oftentimes painful and uncomfortable. The more comfortable the
patient, the more effective the program is likely to be. A patient’s
physical and emotional safety should never be compromised. The objective
of offering one on one counseling by trained therapists is to attack
the root of the problem that led to the addiction in the first place.
Some really good news is that there is much love, thought and care
put into a patient’s recovery by some of the residential rehab
facilities. Two such facilities in the California area that come to mind are
Cliffside Malibu and Sunset Malibu. They are two excellent examples of
what stellar care exists.
Cliffside Malilbu’s beautiful architecture set back from the
exquisite Southern California coastline allows for fabulous views of the sun
setting over the Pacific Ocean. The interior of the facility is adorned
with gorgeous furnishings in each room, along with large plasma screen
TVs. Some of the activities offered are beach walks, yoga, and hiking.
Three gourmet meals are prepared daily in a caring manner by a
professional and highly acclaimed chef. Group therapy, individual therapy,
family therapy, acupuncture and massage is offered as part of the healing
process. A patient can even receive a facial, a manicure and a
pedicure.
Sunset Mailbu offers tremendous views from its facility, too.
Horseback riding, yoga, and hiking are a few of stimulating physical
activities offered at this facility. The luxurious exterior and interior
designs can make one feel like royalty. Every room has its own special
décor and the views of the ocean are marvelous. Professional cooks
prepare scrumptious gourmet meals and snacks. The sensitive staff treats
each client with respect and dignity. Punishing or shaming a client is
never a technique used to ‘help.’
The staffs in both of these fine facilities work fervently to
unearth the underlying problem that caused the substance abuse to first
surface. Privacy and an emotionally safe haven is a mandate for healing.
While the physical pain of detox can be horrible, the emotional pain is
often excruciating. Some terrifying or shameful experiences can be too
traumatic to share in a group. Good detox centers always recognize
that the right therapist for private sessions can make a relapse less
likely. Sharing these difficult, almost unspeakable horrors with a
knowledgeable professional frees the mind of the suppressed or oppressed
feelings.
The trained staff at a successful center, such as the two mentioned
earlier, will always strive to make lifelong changes. Aftercare
treatment is available to all clients to assure continued success at living a
clean and sober life. Many studies show patients who stay in rehab the
longest and then participate fully in the aftercare treatment program,
are the ones who never turn back to their old, unhealthy
lifestyles.
Making the decision to rid the body of deadly toxins will benefit
family, friends and careers. The reward of a healthy, productive and
meaningful life, far out-weighs any initial discomfort that may be
experienced with the detox process.
If you or someone you know needs help, call Cliffside Mailbu @
800-501-1988 or Sunset Malibu @ 800-332-9202. Counselors are available
24/7.