Addiction

In the addiction program at Adventist Health Glendale (AHGL), treatment focuses on helping the addicted individual remain sober while at the same time treating any underlying mental illness the person may have. Many times, people suffering from a mental illness have no idea that they are dealing with one. In an effort to find relief from their symptoms, they begin to self-medicate with alcohol, street drugs or prescription drugs.

An important part of the recovery process is education. Individuals who learn to identify the symptoms of their mental illness and commit to a plan of recovery increase their chances of kicking their addiction as well.

Signs of addiction include:

• Compulsive need for and use of habit-forming substance known to be harmful (such as heroin, nicotine or alcohol)
• Obsessive thought about the substance
• Behavioral and attitude changes
• Continued use of the substance despite negative consequences
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after use is stopped

If you feel the above situation describes you or someone you love, call(818) 409-8347to speak to one of our trained mental health professionals.