When we think of Beverly Hills, we often think of the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Stars on the famous Walk of Fame represent the stars that live in the huge, private estates that symbolize the essence of Beverly Hills. To some, this lifestyle is a caricature of what it means to be on easy street, but if we look closely, it is easy to see that the same troubles, fears and problems that face many Americans also affect the affluent of this sparkling city.

Of course, every lifestyle has its share of stress. Regardless of whether an individual living in Beverly Hills is in show business or any other type of business, stress can play a huge factor in the decisions we make. A study published by the U.S. National Library of Medicine states that stress is unequivocally linked to risk factors for addiction.

What Is Stress?

According to the research study, stress is, at its most basic element, a matter of perception. One individual may see a situation from one perspective and deal with it easily. Another person may encounter the same situation and perceive it as emotionally traumatic. Everyone is different, and everyone deals, or fails to deal, with stress in their own way.

For instance, you and your spouse may be facing the same financial circumstances in a trying economy. You may see it as a temporary situation that some good decisions and due diligence can overcome. Your spouse may be fearful and see the same situation with dread, foreboding and a sense that they can’t “handle” the possible ramifications.

Suppose that the stressed individual in the above scenario develops anxiety to the point that they seek medical attention. They receive a prescription for an anti-anxiety medication, such as Xanax. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Xanax is a drug of abuse for many individuals, but it is also a very effective medication when used correctly. The stress study we mentioned points out that there is a link between sustained stress and a vulnerability to drug addiction. With this being the case, the individual who is prescribed an addictive medication is at increased risk for becoming addicted to the very medication that was supposed to help them cope.

Finding Drug Rehabilitation for Your Beverly Hills Loved One

Unfortunately, addiction is a disease than can bring down influential and talented individuals. Even the most careful and responsible individuals in Beverly Hills can find themselves developing a tolerance and ultimately misusing their medications. The good news is that addiction can also be treated with dedication, reliance and success.

If you find yourself in the position of needing an effective rehab for drug addiction treatment, or you know that it’s time to find help for your Beverly Hills loved one, keep in mind that the most effective treatment programs should address very specific needs for each patient. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has researched addiction for many years, searching for the methods that are best for creating an atmosphere of healing. Along with their research about how drugs work and the effects they have on the human body and brain, they have also compiled a list of principles that one should look for in a rehab facility. A few of these principles include:

• Length and duration. The treatment program must be of an adequate length to address all of the individual’s needs. This length of time is determined by the individual and should not be set to a one-size-fits-all time frame.
• Availability. When an individual is ready for treatment, the treatment must be available right away or the opportunity may be lost.
• Flexibility. The treatment program should change as the needs of the individual change, progress or relapse.
• Comprehensiveness. Treating the entire person is crucial, including any co-occurring medical or psychological issues he or she may be facing.
• Uniqueness. Each recovering addict is an individual, with unique needs and issues that must be addressed. There is no single type or style of treatment that will work for everyone.

At Axis, we understand these principles, and we apply them every day. If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction in Beverly Hills, we have the facilities, staff and dedication to effectively address the issue. Contact us today to find out how our dedicated staff can help you develop the tools you need to make your recovery a success.