Dr. M.K. (Khal) El-Yousef founded Fairwinds Treatment Center to help those suffering from addiction problems. He developed his celebrated dual diagnosis methodology to help patients toward their goal of long-term healing and recovery. What makes this approach so highly effective is that it focuses not only on clinical treatment but also on therapeutic counseling, which is crucial for the overall health of patients struggling with substance abuse.
A study conducted by a professor at the University of Utah College of Social Work recently found that a recovery program emphasizing mindfulness practices helped relieve patients' chronic pain symptoms and reduced their reliance on prescription drugs.
Patients in the study practiced techniques to help them savor healthy pleasures, such as contemplating a beautiful nature scene or feeling a special emotional connection with a loved one. The individuals were taught how to focus on pleasing colors, scents and memories, and meditated every day. EEG tests showed that the longer a patient had participated in the study, the more active his or her brain's response to healthy natural pleasures became, making the desire for drugs less and less severe.
"This study suggests that this process can be reversed. We can teach people to use mindfulness to appreciate and enjoy life more, and by doing that, they may feel less of a need for addictive drugs. It's a powerful finding," the professor told the University of Utah News Center.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an addiction to prescription drugs, contact Fairwinds today to receive the best in drug addiction treatment. We offer both residential and out-patient care, and our highly trained and experienced professional staff members can help you begin your long-term recovery today. We want to help you and your family heal, because at Fairwinds we believe that as we strengthen families against drug addictions, we strengthen society.
