July 2024 - Page 2 of 2 - Kingdom Revolution

Commonly Abused Substances in South Africa

by Andre | Jul 8, 2024 | Articles, Therapeuo, Understanding Addiction

When it comes to statistics on drug and alcohol abuse in South Africa it is difficult to get exact figures. Much of the data we have regarding addiction is based on information gathered from recovery and treatment centers – and the figures are only gathered from about 70% of the treatment centers in South Africa.

What we do know however is that looking at the statistics published by the UN in their World Drug Report indicates that more than 247 million people have experimented with drugs, and that from that total about 10% have a substance use disorder/addiction. It is estimated that only 1 in 6 individuals with substance use disorders go into treatment.

It is estimated that around 13% of the South African population meet the criteria for substance use disorder – and even if this percentage were lower – we all have had someone in our lives who had a problem with drugs and/or alcohol.

Even if the percentage was lower it would not minimize the importance of addressing the issue of drug and/or alcohol abuse.

We are likely to encounter someone with a S.U.D. at some point, and therefore it is important to understand what they might be going through. Whereas in other articles we will be looking at the mechanisms of addiction as well as options for treatment, in this article we will take a look at some of the most common drugs used in South Africa.

This is by no means an exhaustive or comprehensive look at the various substances, but just an overview of the most commonly abused substances. Alcohol and Marijuana will be covered in a later article. We will be delving into more detail in the future.

Opiates

Opiates are a type of drug that includes both illicit narcotics and prescription medications. Heroin, morphine , fentanyl and codeine are all examples of opiates.

These substances are derived from the opium poppy or substances with similar effects on the brain or body. Artificial substances with the same effect are referred to as synthetic opioids. These drugs depress your central nervous system and are used for pain relief and as anaesthesia but is often misused or abused because of the feelings of euphoria it produces.

The risk of overdose with Heroin is much higher than with other substances as it is hard for the user to determine how much is safe to use.

Symptoms of opiate addiction can be physical or psychological. These can include:

Confusion
Diarrhea or constipation
Sweating
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Tiredness
Constricted pupils
Moments of loss of consciousness
Notable drowsiness
Unusual levels of euphoria
Slow breathing
Social isolation
Getting prescriptions from more than one doctor
Mood swings
New financial problems
Anxiety
Insomnia

It is important that the opiate user undergo detox under the supervision of a medical professional as there are certain complications which may arise during the withdrawals.

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine, also locally referred to as Tik and Crystal, is a popular and extremely potent nervous system stimulant.

In low to moderate doses, methamphetamine can elevate mood, increase alertness, concentration and energy in fatigued individuals, reduce appetite, and promote weight loss. At very high doses, it can induce psychosis, breakdown of skeletal muscle, seizures and bleeding in the brain.

It is relatively cheap in comparison to other stimulants and is one of the main drugs of abuse in South Africa.

Some of the most common indicators that someone might be using meth are:

Hyperactivity
Twitching, facial tics, jerky movements
Paranoia
Dilated pupils
Noticeable and sudden weight loss
Skin sores
Rapid eye movement
Reduced appetite
Agitation
Burns, particularly on the lips or fingers
Erratic sleeping patterns
Rotting teeth
Outbursts or mood swings
Extreme weight loss

Crack/Cocaine

Cocaine is made from the dried leaves of the Coca Plant. While the powdered form is referred to as cocaine or coke, the rock form is known as crack, or rocks locally.

The name crack is derived from the cracking sound it makes when it is heated and smoked.

Cocaine, just like meth and cat, is a stimulant. This means that it produces a fast and intense feeling of energy, power and euphoria. Crack is a bit more intense but also wears off very quickly. The use and abuse of crack/cocaine can lead to intense feelings of depression and anxiety.

Some of the symptoms to look out for are:

Excitability
Dilated pupils
Runny nose
Weight loss
Mood swings
Social isolation
Risky behaviors
Nosebleeds
Boost in confidence
Talkative habits
Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
White powder residue around the nose and mouth
Burn marks on the hands and lips
Deterioration in hygiene habits
Financial difficulties
Loss of interest in things that once brought joy
Increased need for privacy
Spoons, razor blades, plastic baggies and other drug paraphernalia in the person’s room or clothing pockets.

Methcathinone

Methcathinone also sometimes called Cat or ephedrone is a synthetic derivate that stems from the leaves of the khat bush which contains cathinone.

Like Cocaine and Meth it is a nervous system stimulant and produces feelings of great euphoria and energy.

The symptoms therefore are very similar to that of Cocaine and Crystal Meth.

Ecstacy

Ecstacy, also referred to as MDMA or Molly, is a derivative of methamphetamine. It rose to popularity with the rave scene and is still popular today as a party drug. It’s symptoms are very similar to that of Methamphetamines.

It is often bought as a liquid or in tablet form.

Methaqualone/Mandrax

Also known as Quaaludes, Mandrax or Buttons, Methaqualone is a hypnotic and sedative drug that is often smoked with marijuana in a ‘wit pyp’.

In the 60’s and 70’s it was prescribed as a treatment for insomnia and as a muscle relaxant. In the 80’s production was largely halted and the drug was made illegal.

Some of the signs and symptoms of Mandrax misuse are:

Stomach pain
Weight loss
Red puffy eyes
Clumsiness (decreased alertness)
Decrease in concentration
Restlessness
Increased sleep
Brown/Yellowish marks on hands
Slurred speech
Poor co-ordination

IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE ARE STRUGGLING WITH ADDICTION PLEASE REACH OUT: 065 370 3806 / ANDRE@ADLABUSCHAGNE.CO.ZA. #YOUARENOTALONE

Understanding Addiction: Stages of Drug Use

by Andre | Jul 8, 2024 | Articles, Counselling, Therapeuo, Understanding Addiction

As with most things in life, addictions do not form overnight. No one expressly decides to become an addict. It happens over time.

Drug addiction can therefore be viewed as a series of developmental stages. Drawing from the work of Kandel (2002) and Wallen (1993) we can suggest these stages as the logical progression of the disease of addiction: Initiation, Escalation, Maintenance, Discontinuation and Relapse, and finally Recovery.

This is by no means a certain road map, but most users do tend to follow this trend in their patterns of use and abuse. Some users may, however, escalate quicker or relapse more often or not at all. Nonetheless, these developmental stages give us some insight into the general progression of the disease of addiction.

Initiation

Often the typical user is introduced to psychoactive substances by friends or relatives as a social gesture. It is common for adolescents to start experimenting with alcohol or tobacco in a social setting and for this experimentation to continue with other substances in similar settings.

In the case of prescription medications initiation usually happens when the initiate is legally prescribed a potentially addictive substance or a friend/relative decides to share their medication with the initiate.

Initial use of a substance does not necessarily lead to addiction. Without the stages of escalation and maintenance it automatically progresses to discontinuation and cessation. In cases where the user is at risk we find that the dependence will develop following initial use and continued experimentation.

Escalation

The period of initiation differs from person to person, and is often a period of casual or occasional use. As experimentation continues the addict will inevitably find themselves using more regularly. They might see an increase in their preoccupation with psychoactive substances, or socialize more frequently with other users – reinforcing the idea of intoxication as normal or fun. As the usage escalates the patterns of their use become more risky and harmful.

The variety of substances being used may increase. Priorities might start taking a backseat to the substance during this time, jobs and families might be neglected, self-care gives way to self-destruction as the obsession slowly starts taking root and dependence upon the substance starts to develop.

Typically there will be little or no concern as to how the drugs or behavior might impair, impact or influence their future or health.

Maintenance

As tolerance and dependence builds the user finds themselves on a quest to recreate that original euphoria. This, however, proves elusive and it becomes a non-stop search for normalcy. A quest to just feel okay.

As this progresses it becomes even harder to feel just that and the search for the substance becomes a matter of survival. Where the non-addict prioritizes food, shelter and clothing as necessities for survival, the addict brain prioritizes the mind altering substance before all else. Eventually this obsession becomes all-consuming bypassing any and all other instincts and moral inclinations.

Drugs are no longer something that is done “just for fun” but now slowly starts becoming the be-all and end-all of the users day to day life. The user finds themselves in a downward spiral in which their psychological and physical health starts deteriorating, social support systems start collapsing and economic resources start drying up.

Discontinuation and Relapse

There are various reasons why an individual might discontinue or stop their use of a mind altering substance.

These reasons may range from a feeling of having hit ‘rock bottom’, the collapse of family relationships or social support networks, the dwindling of economic resources. Some may stop abruptly following an overdose or sudden medical complication. Others still stop temporarily because of incarceration or court mandated rehabilitation/treatment.

Sometimes the downward spiral of loss and adversity might lead the addict to realize that drugs are not the solution, but a contributing factor to the problems in their lives and seek help.

Over two thirds of those who abuse alcohol often quit by themselves with no need for intervention. Those addicted to other drugs usually require a much more hands-on and supportive approach.

Many individuals do however recover from addiction by ‘white knuckling’, pushing through and getting sober. This however does not work for everyone – especially when there are co-occurring conditions such as chronic pain or mental illness.

Since addiction, more properly referred to as Substance Use Disorder, is a chronic relapsing brain disorder it is important to seek the right help, find the right program and build the right support system to prevent relapse.

There are as many reasons for relapse as there are to get sober. From personal tragedy and trauma to economic despair and health problems, the addicted brain can find many good reasons to go back to drugs and/or alcohol.

Relapse, however, is not failure but rather just a step back. We can always recover if we are open minded and willing to change.

Recovery

Recovery starts when the addict acknowledges that their use of mind altering substances has become a problem and that they need help, when they decide that the complete cessation of their use of these substances is necessary.

It is a process. Just like the addiction was not built over night, recovery requires persistence and perseverance. It requires dedication and a willingness to work on yourself.

At first the addict might grieve the loss of their drug lifestyle, but in time as the hallmarks of this previous life are replaced by more healthy alternatives.

Old using buddies and acquaintances are replaced by new friends and stronger support systems.

Physical health might start to recover, usually much quicker than emotional or mental health as the addict has to regain lost emotional development and growth. The addicted client might be older, but developmentally might still be ‘stuck’ at the mental/emotional age where they stopped dealing with life and started using drugs. Emotional and mental growth has been stunted by the use of these substances and the individual might need extra help to get back on track.

There is no shame in this. There is hope – and we just need to work the program, commit to change and work towards building ourselves up again.

Fortunately, if the individual is resolute about ‘dealing with life on life’s terms’ without psychoactive substances we will find that the emotional growth we are fighting tooth and nail to achieve will be accelerated. This process might be absolutely terrifying at first, but it is so worth it – exhilarating and thrilling – as the pain and terror of addiction gives way to an abundance of life.

Early Recovery

In the first six months of recovery the risk and rate of relapse is much higher. Everything is new, and it can be quite overwhelming. During this time we learn how to cope with daily life, deal with stressors in work environments and relationships in healthy, non-chemical ways, and build new support networks, usually through attendance of 12-step Fellowships.

This is the time during which we start the process of moving away from people,places and things associated with our using and towards a new way of thinking and living.

During this time mood swings and depression is common and we need to be mindful about these episodes since they can derail treatment.

Usually after 6 months we start grappling less with our routines and socializing and start focusing more on the real psychological and societal adjustments of sobriety. Feelings and emotions start returning, and the grieving over the old way of life might continue.

For example, as our eating habits start normalizing we might be concerned about our sudden weight gain. We might be unsure about how to deal with our unnecessarily harsh boss or team leader. Family problems might seem to push us close to the edge. However, it is important for us to focus on what we can change rather than that which is beyond our control.

The work continues as we start learning what self care and love is all about and re-establish our ability to feel and deal with the complications of life without the use of drugs or alcohol.

Later Recovery

Roughly a year into recovery we start gaining confidence as we apply the tools we have learnt from the programs and treatment. As we practice the principles of recovery in all our affairs we find an increasing state of serenity and contentment, increasing stability and comfort as we continue to work on ourselves and build our social support networks and work to restore old ones that might have collapsed (like family relationships).

Many start to advance in terms of their careers or studies, or go on to help others as a way of giving back.

The promises of recovery are not always as clear cut as it might seem.

But they are real and will materialize if we work for them.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction – please reach out: 065 370 3806.

5 Types of Drug User

by Andre | Jul 8, 2024 | Articles, Counselling, Therapeuo, Understanding Addiction

When I was an active drug user I was always baffled by the individuals who could use with us and then abruptly stop. Those who could try cocaine or meth and just not like it. Those who were able to wake up in the morning after a hard night out and not crave a little something to get them going. Those fortunate individuals with the self-control and soundness of mind to party on a Friday night, and stay in watching movies and drinking tea on a Saturday.

For me it was not that simple. I needed drugs to get up in the morning. I needed to smoke a joint at work just to cope with my co-workers. I needed a drink at night to go to bed. It was as if I couldn’t do anything without a vast amount of chemicals running through my system.

It took me a while in recovery to understand this phenomenon. Even the Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book makes a distinction between different types of drinkers – from the teetotaler to the casual drunk and the full blown alcoholic – we come to realize that there are different kinds of users, and therefore different interventions for each individual case.

In terms of addiction the UN World Drug Report sheds some light on the matter.Their report indicates that more than 247 million people have experimented with drugs, and that from that total about 10% have a substance use disorder/addiction.

If you question whether or not you might have a substance use disorder and if you might need help, consider this: has your use of a substance led to disorder in any one or more facets of your life? If yes, please consider reaching out.

Below we will look at 5 types of drug users with a brief discussion of each.

It is important as we look into the classifications to realize that these are the ideal types. Most users will not fit neatly into any specific category, yet these definitions do remain quite useful for classification.

An abstainer or teetotaler might once in a while, for example have a drink.Others might shift from one category to another as context and circumstances change.

It is also important to understand that psychological dependence varies by degree.

This set of classifications, unlike the stages of addiction, does not follow a linear pattern. It is not a progression from one to the other. Simply these are the relative position one might find oneself in in terms of the use of substances. A description of condition dependent on circumstance, context and situation.

There is no predictable progression between categories, and one might find an individual user swinging from one extreme to the other.The full blown addict might abruptly discontinue his usage of mind altering substances and become an abstainer, or an individual might try crack for the first time and become completely physically and psychologically dependant.

The Abstainer

People might abstain from drugs and alcohol, or even certain behaviors like gambling or sex, for various reasons. Whether for religious (for example 7^th Day Adventists going as far as abstaining from tea and coffee because of the caffeine content) or moral reasons, or as the after effect of a series of traumatic experiences (growing up in an alcoholic household) certain people abstain because of the belief that drugs or alcohol is inherently wrong. Others still become abstainers later in life after having seen or lived the horrors of active addiction or having had a bad drug or alcohol experience.

The Social User

This type of drug use is the most common and constitutes the majority of the drug using population. A social user is an individual who uses alcohol or other psychoactive substances but are able to limit their use, using only in social settings or once in a while.

Mind altering substances are seen as a way to enhance the pleasure of a social setting and is used to accomplish social goals.

Not every social user becomes dependent although the likelihood of addiction depends on the substance being used.

The danger however does come in with reinforcement of the behaviour.

“There is still considerable debate whether people can experiment with certain mind-altering drugs (e.g., marijuana, methamphetamine, crack, or heroin) without escalating into misuse (Type 3) or dependency (Types 4 and 5). With some drugs, like alcohol, most people seem to be able to continue indefinitely as social users (Type 2); research shows only about 20% appear to develop a more depen-

dent relationship. However, a larger percentage of marijuana users (as many as 25%) escalate into dependency if they regularly use over an extended time.” (The Addiction Counselors Desk Reference, Coombs and Howatt, 2005)

Drug Abuser

Where the social user might enjoy the use of mind and mood altering substances as part of a social experience where the use of the drug itself is not the priority, the drug abusers main goal in these same settings is intoxication.

The drug abusers usage patterns might still be sporadic, unlike the dependant, but might include binges and more risky use of the drug.

The motivation changes from social reward and becomes way more internal.

Some might start using drugs to avoid or numb unwanted feelings, to change mood or personality or even to enhance performance (eg. Amphetamines for studying, or marijuana to be more ‘creative).

Others use drugs and go on binges to escape from the reality of their responsibilities at home, work or school, or just be less themselves.

Physical Dependence

Physically dependent users are not necessarily psychological addicted to the substance they are using, but because of prolonged use and tolerance these users often have to continue their use of the substance because of the severe discomforts of detox and withdrawal. We see this especially in those addicted to their prescription medication.

The physically but not psychologically dependent user might even come to despise the medications or drugs they are on and might want to stop, but discontinuation poses certain challenges.

Detox can be between 3-5 days for fast acting substances like heroin, alcohol or cocaine, or up to two weeks in the case of drugs like benzodiazepines or methadone.

“Situational addicts, such as some Vietnam veterans, offer another example of Type 4 addicts. Although numerous enlisted men became addicted to narcotics while serving in Southeast Asia, many stopped without aid on their return to the United States. They returned to normal living by reconnecting with schools, families, churches, and other social support structures that provided the psychological nourishment psychoactive drugs only simulate. After detoxifying, a large percentage walked away from drugs, or used them only intermittently for recreation. Surprisingly, full recovery did not require abstinence. Although nearly half of Vietnam veterans who became addicted tried narcotics again after their return, only 6% became readdicted.” (The Addiction Counselors Desk Reference, Coombs and Howatt, 2005)

Physically and Psychologically Dependent

“Unlike Vietnam veterans, individuals in this condition cannot simply walk away from their addictions and resume a normal life. They depend on psychoactive drugs to cope with life. When the reward-pain ratio shifts and unpleasant and disruptive events accelerate, rather than discontinuing the drugs as Type 4 users do, they increase the dosage, switch to other drugs, or try to titrate various substances. Instead of blaming drugs for their spiraling decline, they regard

them as the solution and often mourn their loss just as one mourns the death of a loved one.” (The Addiction Counselors Desk Reference, Coombs and Howatt, 2005)

Type 5 users have become fully dependent on the drug and cannot return to being a social user. This is the kind of solution that AA and other 12-step fellowships offer. Complete abstinence is the cure for this obsession of the mind and allergy of the body.

Besides the physical consequences that comes with physical dependence, the psychologically dependent user is completely hooked and obsessed with the next fix. Drug-seeking behaviour becomes a survival instinct and users of this type will continue to use and self-medicate their feelings.

Even guilt or a desire to stop can cause the psychologically addicted user to reinforce his use as he tries to escape the feeling of impending doom and hopelessness that comes with abuse, hoping he can dig down and out of the hole he has found himself in.

These users might try to stop, but cannot do so without a healthy support system and a program. Relapse is common among this kind of user, and this condition is the most severe.

If the Type 5 user does go back to trying a mind-altering substance in a social setting relapse is almost certain as they cannot stop once they start. As the AA adage goes ‘1 is too much and a 1000 never enough.’

Unlike other categories of users the Type 5 user has a permanent, chronic chemical dependence and left untreated will almost inevitably lead to debilitation or death.

Reach Out

If you believe you might have a substance use disorder or fall into one of these categories, reach out today. There are so many options available, you do not have to do it alone. Contact us on 0653703806 or via email.

You are not alone.

Finding Help: The Matrix Model

by Andre | Jul 8, 2024 | Articles, Counselling, Therapeuo, Treatment Modalities

The Matrix Model is a highly structured 16 week program originally developed in the 80’s to treat stimulant dependent users. It was originally developed as a response to the growing problem of cocaine addiction and is still one of the most effective approaches in the treatment of stimulant (eg. cocaine and methamphetamine) abuse. During a time where most rehabilitation programs and centers were geared towards addressing heroin and alcohol abuse, focusing on 28 day in patient programs and relying heavily on the twelve step fellowships, the Matrix model was thought to be a more targeted approach to benefit this new group of users who had started showing up at treatment facilities all over Southern California.

Built on empirical evidence from clinical studies this mode of treatment has been proven to be effective in reducing the use of alcohol and substance abuse as well as improvements in psychological indicators.

Where many other treatment plans find their basis in a singular psychological orientation, the Matrix Model is an integrative approach which makes use of a variety of treatment styles and methods.

This includes CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), motivational interviewing, behaviorism, supportive person centred therapy, family/couples/marriage counseling, group therapy with an emphasis on social skills and twelve step fellowship meetings.

Being highly integrative and adaptable the Matrix Model can be customized to suit the individual client. Incorporating the most effective tools and facets of various approaches this treatment model is proven to be highly successful in treating those who are new to recovery and those who have not found other approaches helpful.

The methods are tried and tested for their appropriateness and effectiveness in the population being treated.

The focus of this treatment model is to teach individuals about addiction and recovery, to prevent relapse and to teach social skills, especially within a drug-free environment. This approach also encourages family members to participate in the recovery of their loved through education and counseling – whether group, family, marriage or individual counseling.

Relapse prevention and contingency management is often prioritized. In contrast to alcoholics, those who use cocaine or other stimulants often have shorter histories of use, experience periods of abstinence followed by relapse and are generally not in denial of their addiction. Since the craving the client experiences for the stimulant in question can be so overwhelming contingency management and relapse prevention is a key issue in this approach to therapy.

To encourage participation and program compliance this outpatient program also includes weekly drug testing over the course of the 16 week period to monitor and assess recovery progress.

The most common incarnation of this treatment model is as an outpatient program meaning that clients will come in weekly to the treatment facility or provider and then return home.

Some studies have observed:

A 1985 pilot study found that users who chose the Matrix Model program over a 28-day inpatient hospital program or a 12-step group showed lower rates of cocaine use 8 months after they were treated, compared to those who participated in those other types of treatment.
Another study of methamphetamine users who were treated using the Matrix Model found that this group had significantly reduced their meth and other drug use 2 to 5 years after treatment. Many of these people also had also become gainfully employed and stayed out of jail.
A 48-session alternative Matrix Model program for gay and bisexual men who abused methamphetamines found those who participated were less likely engage in risky sexual behaviors (due to their reductions in drug use), an important factor in preventing the spread of HIV.

The Matrix model can also, as previously asserted, be adapted to treat other substance use disorders as well.

A Matrix Model therapist must be properly acquainted and familiar with a variety of styles and therapeutic methods while also being adaptable.

The most appropriate kind of therapist/counselor would be someone who is experienced in CBT, motivational interviewing and the physiology as well as pharmacology of addiction.

Since this treatment model is non-confrontational the therapist will often take on the role of a teacher or coach, and it will be his/her duty to create a safe space – free of judgement – an environment based on openness and positivity. Empathy and a solid understanding of the clients needs is of the utmost importance.

The therapist facilitates group, individual and family counseling sessions, encourages attendance and participation in 12 step groups, engages the client in notions of CBT to understand connections between thoughts, feelings and behaviors as well as coordinating with other therapists and social services to see to the needs of the client.

The therapist is also there to praise and reward desired behavior and to provide consistency and structure to the client’s recovery journey.

Since this is an intensive program it would require that the client participates daily – attending formal therapy more or less three days a week and informal treatment like fellowship meetings on every other day.

The main components of the program are as follows:

Individual Therapy Sessions: These sessions often involve treatment planning and checking in to assess the client’s progress in the program. It may also invole family members or significant others.

Early Recovery Groups: These groups are for individuals in the first few months of sobriety and aims to build a support community for the recovering addict while also teaching valuable social skills and coping mechanisms.

Relapse Prevention Groups: In these sessions users focus on learning strategies to maintain their sobriety. These groups are very organized and the curriculum includes 32 different topics on preventing relapse. Such as changing behavioral patterns, altering ways of thinking and getting involved in 12 step fellowships.

Family Education: Usually facilitated as a therapeutic group, these sessions take place over the course of 12 weeks and teach family members about the physiology of addiction, the health affects of drugs, the conditioning of addiction and the effects of addiction on the family.

Social Support Groups: In the last month of treatment the client will attend these group sessions to focus on finding drug-free activities and healthier drug-free relationships.

Twelve Step Meetings: An integral part of most approaches to the treatment of SUD is introducing participants to the 12 steps and encouraging them to attend meetings. Some programs even have onsite meetings.

CBT/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: CBT is a type of therapy which aims to help users understand how their thoughts influence their behavior. They learn how to replace negative thoughts that can lead to self-destructive behaviors with positive thoughts and healthier behaviors.

Motivational Interviewing: A counseling technique which is used to identify the users motivation for getting clean and make positive changes in their life. The therapist/client relationship is a partnership, and this technique is used to bolster rapport, overcome their resistance to quiting drugs and to encourage the client to engage in their recovery.

Contingency Management: This strategy rewards drug free behavior – such as attending 12 step meetings – or withholding rewards or even implementing consequences for drug-using behaviors – for example, failing a drug test or not taking prescribed medication.

Progress in terms of the program is monitored through goals set during individual sessions as well as random weekly drug testing. The drug testing is imperative to keeping the client accountable and to reward sobriety – it is never used to punish or break down a user.

A failed drug test may indicate the need for more structure in the program.

As stated before, this program is highly adaptable and can be used in a variety of settings and circumstances to provide the appropriate treatment for the individual.

If you need help finding a facility or treatment center you can contact us today.

We are always willing to help you find the right help.