A holistic view of the treatment of addiction

July 13, 2010 - PRLog -- Addiction not a new phenomenon, but it is a growing worldwide epidemic which is causing devastation in its wake. South Africa is no exception and, in response to this mounting problem, rehabilitation centres have mushroomed around the country. However, many of these are unregistered and, under the incorrect care, a person suffering from this progressive disease is likely to worsen in their condition rather than recover.

Situated in Plettenberg Bay, on the beautiful Garden Route, Oasis Counselling Centre is a registered treatment centre which offers addiction recovery programmes to treat a variety of different manifestations of addiction in a safe, nurturing and happy environment.

At Oasis, focus is on long-term residential care and each client admitted for an in-patient treatment programme is individually assessed, and their length of treatment is determined according to their specific needs. At the centre, programmes are based on therapy, the Twelve Steps and a healthy and enriching lifestyle as this holistic approach is regarded as vital to clients staying clean once they have left the centre.

Therapy includes both individual and group sessions. While weekly individual counselling helps clients to realise and understand the root of their problem, group therapy allows addicts in the group to relate to one another as well as challenge denial systems and emergences of addictive behaviour. Sharing experiences and hope as well as relating to similar feelings and circumstances is extremely beneficial to clients as these factors provide support, hope and a realistic view of their situation and problems.

The highly effective 12 Step recovery programme is based on spirituality, not religion, and includes the 12 Step meetings, written work, lectures and workshops. The programme assists addicts in altering the aspects of their lives that they have the power to control and also helps them to come to terms with the compulsions that they cannot control.  In addition, it encourages members to admit to and be accountable for any wrong-doing or harm caused to others as a result of their addictions and teaches them to manage their daily lives in a healthy and productive manner.

Healthy, active lifestyles form the foundation of a holistic approach to addiction treatment, and an effective recovery programme includes an exercise regime of outdoor, sporting and healing activities. The tranquillity of nature and the outdoors has a calming effect on individuals battling destructive addictions and therapeutic activities encourage focus, peace of mind and spiritual awakening. At Oasis, Clients take part in a daily beach walk or swim, weekly horse riding, Sivananda Yoga, nature excursions as well as a deep-sea adventure and an overnight International Outward Bound programme.

This holistic approach to addiction treatment and rehabilitation has proven highly effective in improving addiction recovery rates and preventing relapse. The word Oasis is an acronym for Overcome Addiction Step Into Society, and that is exactly what the programme at Oasis Counselling Centre achieves.

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Oasis Counselling Centre is a registered rehab in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. Oasis takes a holistic approach to the treatment of addictions and their treatment philosophy incorporates counselling, working a 12-Step programme and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.