Dara Thailand

Top Rehab Locations in Thailand

Articles, Australia, International, Treatment, United States

This site is dedicated to giving comprehensive information relating to all things Thailand has to offer in terms of addiction rehabilitation.

There are compelling reasons why more people with dependency issues than ever before are choosing the luxurious rehabilitation establishments here to begin their journey towards successful recovery.

The information, advice and comparisons given will be clear, unbiased and informative. Our aim is to help those with addiction issues and their loved ones understand what services and treatment are available.

Armed with this knowledge it will allow sensible, informed decisions relating to which establishment and methods of treatment best fit your own personal needs.

Brief country overview:

The beautiful Kingdom of Thailand has long been a quality holiday destination for those in the know. Whether you are seeking tranquil, palm-fringed beaches, jungle and rain forest adventures, stunning mountain trails or lively seaside destinations with entertainment to suit all tastes you will find it here.

The capital, Bangkok is arguably the most vibrant city in Southeast Asia, the nation’s road and air routes are of a high standard, and accommodation options range from basic backpack facilities to some of the most luxurious island resorts in the world.

It is known as “The Land of Smiles” for a very good reason. The local population are friendly and helpful, those looking for a calm, spiritual experience have countless stunning temples to choose from.

It goes without saying that Thai food is renowned the world over, but you will not find flavours, taste and variety better than in its place of origin.

Wrap all of this and much, much more up with prices to suit every pocket and it is easy to understand the country’s appeal.

Medical Tourism

Thailand has long been a preferred country in terms of medical tourism. The accommodation, facilities and treatment are first class with prices that are far lower than their western equivalents.

One independent arm of these services is the well-established and respected rehabilitation sector.

The reason inpatient rehab establishments are commonly referred to as Luxury Rehab Resorts will become patently clear through the comparisons and detailed information explained below.

At a glance comparisons of 4 major Thai luxury rehab resorts

The more comfortable an addict feels about their initial recovery environment the better the chance of successfully progressing towards full, long term recovery.

The comparison below will describe the location of these rehab establishments and then lead into details relating to accommodation, facilities, treatment and costs that should pleasantly surprise.

Dara Rehab

This first class operation offers choice galore in many ways:

Location:

Dara completely understand how vitally important it is for recovering clients to feel at one with their surroundings during initial rehabilitation. This is why they have invested in not one, but two first class establishments in different locations:

Flagship Establishment – Koh Chang – Idyllic Tropical Island Setting:

For many men and women preparing themselves for inpatient rehabilitation treatment a setting that offers relaxing palm-fringed beaches is their preferred choice.

Koh Chang is located in the Gulf of Thailand.  As well as beautiful beaches there is a whole lot more. It is Thailand’s 2nd largest island and is part of the stunning Mu Ko Chang National Park, 70 pct. of which is marine.

Calm, relaxed beaches, remote resorts and quality spa’s blend with busier tourist spots that provide restaurants, lively nightlife options and accommodation offerings ranging from basic backpacker huts to ultra-luxurious resorts.

The island’s interior is jungle and rain forest dotted with waterfalls. It is also home to a healthy wildlife population.

Activities abound both in water and on land. Think snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal clear water teeming with sea life and sparkling coral, or elephant rides and hikes along jungle trails to glorious waterfalls where a refreshing dip is mandatory! Rest assured, there is a lot more in between.

Rehab accommodation and facilities:

Luxurious comfort is a given at both locations. Koh Chang incorporates a luxury hotel with its intensive rehabilitation centre. Their quality villas sit in tropical gardens and clients have the choice of staying in Garden or Pool villas.

All offer air-conditioning, large en-suite bathrooms, verandahs, refrigerators and DVD players.

Dara allows clients to choose between deluxe, superior and suite rooms, all of which come with air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms and DVD players.

Wi-Fi is available throughout both locations and sensible use of electronic equipment is allowed.

Both establishments have large swimming pools with loungers and relaxation areas, fully equipped gym’s, massage rooms, meditation centres, lounge facilities with a book and DVD library and relaxed communal dining areas. 

Rehab staff and treatment methods:

A very healthy ratio of internationally certified therapists are included in the 70 full time staff. There are 50 full time staff at their Koh Chang base.

Individually personalized 4, 8 and 12 week programs are offered at both establishments with an additional offering of a unique, no obligation 7 day ‘first steps program’ that has been specifically designed for those who are hesitant about their ability to commit to a complete program.

This shortened stay cuts no corners and clients will have the opportunity to fully experience the luxurious and relaxing environment, daily routines and treatment sessions.

The vast majority of those choosing this option have their fears and questions answered in such a positive manner that a full program of treatment is their next step towards full recovery.

Two trademark treatment methods are available. ‘Steps to Recovery’ is a 12-step program and the ‘Integrated Treatment Model’ method includes key aspects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Both treatment options combine physical, social, psychological and spiritual modules through a variety of individual and group based activities.

Weekly excursions are arranged for all clients and the wide choice of activities available in both locations are something clients will thoroughly enjoy. These day trips are rewarding and give additional encouragement to clients during their recovery.

Two other very important treatment options are available to all clients. Those suffering with multiple issues can take advantage of the first class Dual Diagnosis Treatment, and it is strongly advised that all clients choose continued aftercare treatment from an excellent choice offered by Dara.

Ongoing Complimentary stay:

Dara want clients to fully understand and appreciate that they are an integral part of the recovery process and will be there for them as long as required.

To this end they offer a very appealing one week complimentary stay each year. This ‘tune-up’ is available to every client that has successfully stayed sober for an agreed period of time.

Such a generous offer is another reason this top class establishment is the choice of many suffering from dependence issues.

 

alcohol rehab

Post-Rehab Challenges

Articles, Australia, International, Treatment, United States

This article is aimed at those who have stood by a loved one through addiction, watched them progress through rehab and are now ready for a progressive post-rehab life.

Tough time behind – Challenging one ahead:

There is certainly no value in denying that the time spent watching a loved one slide deeper into dependence upon their substance of choice was tough.

Heartbreak, anguish, angst, concern, worry and anger will have had their peaks and troughs. For many there will have been times when maintaining the strength and determination to stay was far more difficult than actually asking the addict to leave.

But, you should be extremely proud at the way your perseverance won through, that your loved one ended denial, agreed to professional help and is now making progress along the recovery road.

Far reaching effects:

Living with a person who is addicted has far-reaching effects. Not just for them or you. This spreads to other family members and friends and will affect those involved once the recovering addict returns home.

It must be remembered that recovery has to be seen as a lifelong process. Your loved one will not be cured just because initial rehab treatment has successfully been completed.

5 ways to make a noticeable difference:

There are many ways that your contribution to helping a loved one progress positively through healing can be achieved. Here are 5 that need to be considered:

  • Continued treatment: It is important that doctor’s appointments are kept and that after-care services are maintained. Accompanying your loved one to these sessions will show support and encouragement.
  • Therapy sessions: Regular therapy sessions should be maintained. While some of these should be one-on-one sessions between your loved one and therapist it will benefit all to be involved in group/family therapy sessions.
  • Continued addiction education: It is quite possible that you have made it your business to understand addiction and the specific problems that come with it. This is obviously a very positive step, but it should be continued. Changes will occur, new situations will develop. By expanding your knowledge base you will be helping your loved one. Just as importantly it will help you understand why unexpected situations crop up and how to deal with them.
  • Involve other family members and friends: It can help greatly if you involve other family members and close friends in the recovery process. You will be able to explain things more clearly, understand any additional stresses others are going through and encourage a togetherness that will be a great boost for the recovering addict.
  • Crucial lifestyle changes: Sacrifices in terms of lifestyle changes may be necessary. Examples being that the house should be completely free of alcohol and/or potentially addictive substances that the recovering addict could be tempted by. Such sacrifices will also show all concerned how determined you are to ensure relapse is a distant thought.

Long-term sobriety CAN be achieved:

The past will have been tough and the future challenging, but it must always be remembered that with your continued commitment, love and support a recovering addict can maintain sobriety and benefit from the love and care of a normal family environment.

Thailand rehab

Thailand Drug Rehab Establishments

Alternative Treatment, Articles, Australia, International, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United States

Excessive drug use continues to ruin many lives the world over. We will consider some of the issues that surround drug dependence, and also explain why the thriving Thailand drug rehab establishments are getting such positive industry reviews and very encouraging client testimonials. Continue reading “Thailand Drug Rehab Establishments”

alcohol damage

5 Ways Alcohol Damages Your Body

Articles, Australia, Education, International, Understanding Addiction, United States

If you type into Google “benefits of alcohol” no doubt you will get thousands of results providing information on these benefits, with studies to back up the claims. Studies have found some small benefits when alcohol is consumed in moderation, such as red wine containing lots of antioxidants and beer having certain vitamins and minerals.

But whilst these finding may be true, as soon as you start drinking more than the recommended daily allowance, you will likely start causing much more damage to your body than good. Try typing into Google “long term side effects of alcohol” and you will get a complete list of the damages that long term alcohol use does to the body.

So while you may consider that drinking small amounts of alcohol is providing you some health benefits, you must always be aware of what the damaging long term effects are too.

Long Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse

The effects that alcohol can have on a person’s health will depend on a number of factors such as their overall health and how much they drink and how often. Alcohol is primed to destroy certain parts of the human body, so even those that drink small amounts; overtime it can still wreak havoc on the body.

Here are the top 5 damaging effects that alcohol has.

Damage to the Liver

It is probably one of the most well-known effects that alcohol causes damage to the liver. The liver is a vital organ which does amazing work by filtering harmful substances out of the body, as well as converting the nutrients that we consume into energy. So whilst it is designed to encounter damaging substances, it cannot keep handling them in large amounts. Drinking too much alcohol at one time will overwork the liver and this can eventually lead to conditions such as massive amount of scarring and eventually cirrhosis. If too much damage is done then the liver will not be able to filter out other harmful substances and this can be fatal. The good news is that the liver is able to heal itself, so if there is not already too much damage done, stopping drinking will give a person’s liver a good chance of recovery.

Damage to the Digestive System  

The digestive system is another important part of the body which is made up of a number of organs that can become damaged from alcohol abuse. Some of the parts of this system that can become damage include the mouth, throat, salivary glands and stomach. Conditions that can relate to these include irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatitis, gastritis, heartburn, ulcers and certain types of cancers.

Damage to the Immune System

Even though you do not notice it, the immune system is working full time to prevent infections in the body and fight off disease. Drinking large amounts of alcohol can cause damage to the immune system by weakening it, which in turn can increase the risk of getting ill. Alcohol can also have an effect on the amount of white blood cells that the body produces. These are produced by lymph nodes to attack any foreign invaders.

Damage to the Bones

Calcium is required throughout the body to help create and maintain strong bones. Calcium is absorbed into the body with the help of the pancreas and combines with the liver’s activation of vitamin D to create healthy bones. Since alcohol can cause damage to both the pancreas and the liver, it can have an effect on calcium absorption in the body and ultimately lead to conditions such as brittle bones or arthritis.

Damage to the Brain

Alcohol has a sedative effect on a person which is why people often become slurred and have poor coordination and judgement. It is believe that long term alcohol use can cause the frontal lobes of the brain to shrink which in turn, increases the risk of developing dementia in later years.

 

For some individuals, cutting down on alcohol or quitting completely can be a simple thing to do, but for others, it can be extremely hard. If you are struggling to quit alcohol use then one option is to attend rehab. Rehab has a high success rate and will get you on the road to recovery, even if you attend for just a few weeks.

alcohol and your brain

Alcohol Dependence Driven By Surprising Brain Change

Articles, Australia, Education, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

A recent study which has been conducted by The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) might be able to help develop new treatments for alcohol misuse and dependence.

The study that took place surprisingly revealed an important difference when comparing the brains of rats who were dependant on alcohol with those of nondependent rats. Both groups, when consuming alcohol, showed an increase in activity in part of their brain known as the central amygdala (CeA), however, this was due to different brain signalling pathways.

Marisa Roberto, TSRI professor who conducted the study has said that findings will enable researchers to develop personalized treatment plans for those who are dependent on alcohol as they should be able to evaluate how someone’s brain responds when differing therapeutics are given.

Found! The Brains response ‘switch’ to Alcohol

This new research has built on a previous study carried out by the same team which found that neuronal activity is increased in a rats CeA when alcohol is consumed. The team saw increased activity in both dependant and non-dependant rats.

As this phenomenon was investigated further in their new study, the team were excited to discover the mechanisms involved in the increased activity were actually different between both groups.  

When a non-dependant rat was given alcohol, the team engaged a set of protons known as calcium channels which resulted in heightened neuronal activity. The calcium channels increased the release of the neurotransmitter GABA causing neurons to fire. Blocking these calcium channels reduced the voluntary alcohol intake amongst the rats.

However, in the rats which were dependant on alcohol, the team discovered a decreased amount of calcium channels on cell membranes therefore causing disruption to their usual capacity to drive alcohols effects on the CeA activity in the brain. Instead, the increase in activity was actually driven by the stress hormone known as corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and CRF-1, its type 1 receptor. The team discovered that when they blocked CRF1’s, alcohol consumption (voluntarily) in the dependant rats was reduced.

By studying both of these groups, a light has been shed on how alcohol can alter the brains functions.

Roberto Explained:

“There is a switch in the molecular mechanisms underlying the CeA’s response to alcohol (from LTCC- to CRF1-driven) as the individual transitions to the alcohol-dependent state,” she said.

The researchers who conducted the study hope that the findings will lead to increased and improved ways to treat alcohol dependency. There are many root causes of alcohol abuse, but this research suggests that health professionals could analyse symptoms or genetic markers and determine if a patient has CRF–CRF1 hyperactivation. If a drug is developed that blocks this activity then it could be a game-changer.