Effects of Alcohol Abuse

Reach out now, we can help
Home / Posts tagged "#12Steps"

Effects of Alcohol Abuse

07 May, 2021Articles, News

Car accidents. Violent arguments. Blackouts. You may be familiar with these examples of the most common consequences of alcohol abuse. They are the kinds of incidences that are reported in the media and spoken about in social circles. But the effects of alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction go far beyond the physical symptoms. In this article, we provide an overview of the effects of this life-threatening disease.

Physical Effects

The body is affected by alcohol abuse in profound and far-reaching ways. Most commonly, alcoholics suffer liver damage to varying degrees. This may manifest in conditions such as jaundice, general fatigue and digestive problems. High doses of alcohol for prolonged periods of time can adversely affect the heart, putting individuals at risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks or strokes. In extreme cases, chronic alcohol users can suffer from thiamine deficiency which results in muscle weakness, blurry vision and long-term loss of appetite.

Mental Effects

Alcohol abuse also affects the brain, particularly the neural centres that control one’s decision-making functions and memory. It is not uncommon for alcoholics who find recovery to be diagnosed with secondary mental illnesses such as neurotic anxiety and depression. In fact, what we know about alcohol abuse today, is that it can exacerbate an already existing, underlying mental condition. Extreme alcohol abusers may experience noticeable cognitive impairment that can cause long-term and irreparable damage.

Emotional Effects

Many alcoholics can relate to the transition from social drinking to drinking in isolation, as their disease progresses. Alcohol abusers may not want to share their liquor, may feel ashamed of their behaviour and may lose interest in social activities, particularly those which do not involve an element of drinking. In addition, it is marked by increasing and persistent levels of irritability. Abusers may become noticeably upset and uneasy when they are prevented from drinking or confronted about their problem. Without the act of satisfying their craving, alcohol abusers cannot function in a healthy way.

Spiritual Effects

The spiritual effect of alcohol abuse is a topic that 12-step programmes cover extensively but one that is not often recognised by those who are not familiar with life in recovery. Many alcoholics describe their disease as feeling like a “hole in the soul,” or like something is fundamentally wrong with them or that they are unworthy of love. When coupled with low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness, the spiritual effects are extensive and deeply troubling.

If you or a loved one is suffering from alcohol addiction or is abusing alcohol, know that help is readily available. Contact us for a free consultation and we’ll support you in your recovery journey.

If you or a loved one needs assistance with alcoholism – know that help is readily available. The road to recovery is not always an easy one but getting yourself or your loved one the best possible care from the team at Crossroads Recovery Centre, provides you with a map to sober, healthy living. No matter how bad things seem, there is hope and it’s only a phone call away. If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.

Acknowledgements:

American Addiction Centres
Stories of Recovery

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
Close

Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
Left Arrow Right Arrow

Approved Medical Aids

Bestmed LogoBonitas LogoCAMAF LogoDiscovery Health LogoFedhealth LogoGovernment Employees Medical SchemeLiberty CorporateMedihelp Medical Scheme

Rehabilitation from Substance abuse

Reach out now, we can help
Home / Posts tagged "#12Steps"

Rehabilitation from Substance abuse

19 February, 2021Articles, News

Substance Use Disorder is a chronic illness that affects the brain, it is progressive and causes physical and psychological damage. It manifests through the use of drugs and alcohol, and does not present as an illness. What is seen is the uncontrollable use of drugs and alcohol, neglect of responsibilities, mental and physical deterioration and very often criminal behaviour. Substance use disorder is often seen as a moral issue or a choice issue, as a result an individual might not receive the help they need.

In most cases there is a denial component, which makes it difficult to help someone struggling with Substance Use Disorder. The first step in getting help is acknowledging that there is a problem, seeing the negative consequences created by the use of drugs. Once this happens options for rehabilitation from substance abuse may be presented.

In the majority of cases rehabilitation is a must in order to overcome substance abuse. The addict must accept that they cannot do this alone, recovery is a life long process and entering a rehabilitation centre is the first step.

A prerequisite for rehabilitation from substance abuse is that all mood and mind altering substances must be stopped, this does exclude the initial medical detox. Entering into an in-patient treatment centre will always be the best option to ensure separation from triggers, situations, people – outside stressors. This allows the addict time and space to focus on their problem.

Detoxification is the process of clearing all substances from the body and limiting any withdrawal symptoms. This must always be done with a doctor. Some substances such as heroin, alcohol, codeine and benzodiazepine require medical intervention, but other drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana do not require medical intervention.

Rehabilitation from substance abuse must:

  • Help an individual to stop using drugs
  • Provide coping mechanisms and tools to cope with life
  • Help an individual stay free from all substances (abstinence)
  • Introduce people to self-help groups (Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous)
  • Motivate an individua to become a productive member of society

Substance Use disorder requires intensive and extended treatment, it is advised that an addict remains in treatment for as long as possible, this gives individuals the best chance of facing the world in recovery.

If you or a loved one are in need of rehabilitation from substance abuse – know that help is readily available. The road to recovery is not always an easy one but getting yourself or your loved one the best care from the team at Crossroads Recovery Centre, Johannesburg, provides you with a map to sober, healthy living. No matter how bad things seem, there is hope and it’s just a phone call away. If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.

www.crossroadsrecovery.co.za

074 89 51043 JHB

012 450 5033 PTA

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
Close

Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
Left Arrow Right Arrow

Approved Medical Aids

Bestmed LogoBonitas LogoCAMAF LogoDiscovery Health LogoFedhealth LogoGovernment Employees Medical SchemeLiberty CorporateMedihelp Medical Scheme

What to Bring to Rehab?

Reach out now, we can help
Home / Posts tagged "#12Steps"

What to Bring to Rehab?

18 November, 2020Articles, News

Booking into a rehabilitation facility for the first time can be an overwhelming and nerve-wracking endeavour, but it need not be so. Many people are fearful of coming into treatment because they have no idea what to expect or what the admissions process is going to look like. To mitigate some of this anxiety we will talk about what to bring to rehab., how to prepare and what to expect when being admitted to Crossroads Recovery Centre .

You will need clothing for a few days, including some items for both hot and cold weather. There is no need to pack for all 28 days in one go as we do have laundry facilities. Walking shoes will also be needed. There is no need to rush out to buy hiking boots, your normal run-around will do just fine for the daily walk around the block.

You will also need to bring the basics such as a towel and toiletries. Please do not bring anything that contains alcohol or is aerosolised. If you do accidentally pack something that may be harmful to yourself or others, we will arrange that it is kept safe for you until you leave.

You need to remember to bring to rehab, any medication that you are currently taking as prescribed by a doctor.

Please remember to pack a few masks, this is in the interest of your health as well as the health of others.

If you or your loved one is a smoker, it’s a good idea to bring a few boxes. If they vape, a few bottles of juice and a charging cable will be needed.

We know its quite old school, but an MP3 player. Phones cannot be substituted for this unfortunately and we do not allow anything that has a radio function. MP3 players can be loaded up with appropriate music to be used in free time. There is no need to rush out to buy one if you don’t already have one, it is a luxury more than anything else. If you do decide to bring an MP3 player, remember the headphones as well.

A few creature comforts can make all the difference when settling into an unfamiliar environment. Linen and bedding are provided, but sometimes a pillow from home and a familiar blanket do make the facilities feel homelier.

Should you run out of any toiletries or require snacks, we do have a tuck shop facility. Tuck shopping is done once a week of the clients. A list is made, and a staff member will go to Pick n Pay or Spar to get the items. Clients are also more than welcome to bring some tuck in with them when they arrive. Chips, sweets, chocolates and cooldrinks and pretty much anything else that you would like to snack on is appropriate. Keep in mind, nothing should contain alcohol. Diets shakes are also off the menu (unless required for medical reasons).

Please keep in mind, the is limited fridge space and as such perishables should be kept to a minimum. Clients also do not have access to cooking facilities so please do not bring along anything that requires a stovetop or oven.

The tuck shop system works like an account. Items will not be bought for clients who do not have funds in their account. Upon admission cash can be deposited into this account or an EFT can be made. Clients are given a tuck shop balance every other day to keep track of their spending. The person responsible for the clients account is also more than welcome to request a breakdown of spending at any time. The tuck shop account is also used for any non-detox medical expenses. If a client needs to get to a dentist or has the flu this is the account that will be used to pay for it.

Crossroads manages these funds on the client’s behalf and we do not add any additional charges. Transport to and from appointments is also billed to this account.

It is important to note, that any fees left in the tuck shop account upon discharge will be paid back to the person who paid in the fees initially, this is either done via EFT or may be given cash. These funds will not be released to the clients unless the client is the person who paid them in in the first place.

When admission is being processed please bring in identifying documentation, such as a drivers license or ID book, and medical aid cards. We require a copy for the admission paperwork. When it comes to medical aids, pre-authorisation can be done ahead of admission. This is to ensure that funds are available and to confirm the co-payment amount. This process can be done prior to admission, should the client elect to not come into treatment or change their admission date, a pre-authorisation does not influence the available benefits. When arranging admission, speak to the counsellor with whom you are working about this information.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Crossroads is making every effort to keep out facilities and clients safe. As such, a client is required to have a COVID test done before joining the treatment programme. This procedure can be done a number of ways. Firstly, a client can get tested privately and arrive with their negative test results, these must be no older than 72 hours. The other option available is that upon admission a member of Crossroads staff takes the client to be tested while waiting for test results the client will be in our isolation facilities. Test results usually take about 24 hours, so the sooner the test is done, the better.

Crossroads has arrangements in place with doctors to administer tests, please speak to your admissions counsellor for these details.

Booking into a rehabilitation facility is a daunting experience, but it need not be so. Our admissions personnel are able to assist you every step of the way and are always available to answer questions and explain procedures. Give Crossroads a call to discuss taking the necessary steps for admission to treatment.

If you or anyone close to you needs help with an addiction to sex, gambling, substances, alcohol or food, please contact us for a free assessment.

www.crossroadsrecovery.co.za

074 89 51043 JHB

012 450 5033 PTA

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
Close

Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
Left Arrow Right Arrow

Approved Medical Aids

Bestmed LogoBonitas LogoCAMAF LogoDiscovery Health LogoFedhealth LogoGovernment Employees Medical SchemeLiberty CorporateMedihelp Medical Scheme

Self-centredness : 5 Min. Podcast

Reach out now, we can help
Home / Posts tagged "#12Steps"

Self-centredness : 5 Min. Podcast

10 November, 2020Podcasts, News

Self-centredness · 5 min Contemplation: Crossroads Recovery Centre

Self-centredness or selfishness may be the root of all our problems. If we could find a cure for this we may be able to find a way to be more present in the world.

When I am concerned with my own losses and losing out, then I am not being present in my own life – I am not accepting my reality, I am obsessing about my own self-centredness. When I find myself struggling to accept the ebb and flow of life and I am concerned with myself and my own self-protection, I am not present in my own life.

Do I find that I give of myself with the expectation that the favour will be returned in the future ? Giving of myself should be done without expectations of anything in the future. It should be without self-centredness.

Addressing my self-centredness is important in accepting how and where my life is at the moment.

This podcast was recorded as a series of lectures given to people in 12 step addiction recovery treatment. The purpose of these talks was to teach and motivate individuals to search for their own spiritual solution to their addiction.

Please feel free to contact me directly or go to our site for more information:

dominic@crrc.co.za

www.crossroadsrecovery.co.za

+27 012 345 1186 Pretoria

+27 010 597 7784 Johannesburg

No Obligation Addiction Assessment

Book a No Obligation Confidential Assessment at your nearest Treatment Centre Today.

Johannesburg Admissions: +27 74 895 1043
Pretoria Admissions: +27 82 653 3311
Close

Stories of Recovery

  • The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
    Oliver VG
    Read more
  • On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
    Johan B
    Read more
  • I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
    Carla S
    Read more
  • "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
    Angelique J
    Read more
Left Arrow Right Arrow

Approved Medical Aids

Bestmed LogoBonitas LogoCAMAF LogoDiscovery Health LogoFedhealth LogoGovernment Employees Medical SchemeLiberty CorporateMedihelp Medical Scheme