Dealing With an Addicted Loved One

Are you having problems about a relative or a close friend who has an addiction problem? This article may help you in dealing with an addicted loved one.

The family is the most basic unit of society, but it is also the most important and significant because it is through families that societies and governments are built upon; strong families which brought together form strong societies, which in turn produce strong nations that are able to withstand any form of trouble or destruction.

But the family’s greatest significance does not simply lie on the nation as a whole, but ultimately in the lives of each and every individual in society. The family is responsible for shaping an individual’s personality, perspective and behavior; in fact, of all the factors that contribute to developing an individual’s mind, will and emotions, the family has the greatest impact.

The family’s role is essential in training an individual to become a productive and beneficial member of the community, but when that person experiences disappointment and persecution, the family is the first one he always turns to because it provides an atmosphere of love and care that no other unit of society can give. This is why in cases of addiction, it isn't the rehabilitation center that has that greatest impact in helping the victim change; it is the family.

Dealing with an addicted loved one is challenging and difficult, but one must realize when someone falls victim to addiction, family is the only one he can turn to. This is especially true in the Philippines, where someone who becomes a victim of addiction is persecuted by the society so much so that he has no one else to go to other than his family.

So if a loved one falls into addiction, how do you deal with them? Here are a few simple keys on how you can deal with a loved one who has fallen victim to addiction:

1. Always Assure the Addiction Victim That You are For Him or Her

As family, the very first thing that you must impress on that loved one who has fallen victim to addiction is that you are, and will always be for him. This doesn’t mean that you are trying to defend his actions, but rather defending the person itself. What he did may be wrong and destructive, but ultimately, you have to realize that turning your back on that addicted loved one will drain all hope for change. It is your support that will encourage him to fight his addiction. It is the trust between you and him that will become his motivation and inspiration.

2. Never Let the Addiction Prevent You From Loving Him or Her

The moment someone falls victim to addiction is the moment when a person needs to experience the most love from his family. As family, we must learn to understand that the only way someone can completely turn away from something as strong as addiction is to experience a tremendous amount of love; a victim of addiction must feel that there is still someone who is willing to share the suffering and help him rise back up. Knowing that there are people who are willing to support him in getting rid of his dependency will push his willingness to undergo rehabilitation.

3. Understand That Addiction is the Problem and Not The Person

Addiction is like a disease, a physical illness – it enters a person and destroys him inside out. When a person is sick, you don’t condemn the person because of the sickness; rather, you condemn the disease because it destroys the person. In the same way, we must learn to look at a person and his addiction separately so that we can have the right perspective in dealing with his addiction issue. As a famous person once said: “Be angry with the sin, not with the person.”

4. Learn To Say No Gently

Addiction places a craving in a person that he can’t control, so we must learn to deny him that craving while assuring the person that we are for him. You can do this by constantly explaining that whatever he is addicted in is destroying his life, and while it may be uncomfortable for a season, in the long run it will benefit him.

Dealing with an addicted loved one takes a lot of love and patience, but as family, you must understand how you are the most important and probably the only person that can help him now.

Davao Region List of Rehab Centers

Moral supports from family members can help out in convincing an individual to enter a rehab center. Knowing that his loved ones are willing to lend a hand and to give their full support will encourage him to change his life for the better. Support from close friends will add further inspiration and will strengthen the confidence of the person to move forward.

If you have a loved one who needs help, you should accept the fact that you alone cannot do it. You need assistance from institutions such as rehab centers in addressing the problem.

List of private and government alcohol and drug abuse rehabilitation centers in Region 11, Davao Region, Philippines covering the province of:

• Compostela Valley
• Davao City
• Davao del Norte
• Davao del Sur
• Davao Oriental

Compostela Valley Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://ecomval.gov.ph/
Telephone Number: (084) 376-0094, (084) 376-028, (084) 376-1053, (084) 376-1031-32, (084) 376-0943
Direct Line: (084) 376-0978
Fax Number: (084) 376-1052
Email Address: pgo@ecomval.gov.ph
Postal Address: Provincial Capitol, Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province

There are no drug and alcohol rehab center in Compostela Valley. We advise everyone to seek help from the local government unit, Office of the Governor through the contact numbers written above. You can also call the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA – Davao Regional Office) at telephone number (082)-222-3045.

Davao City Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.davaocity.gov.ph/
Telephone Number: (082) 227-2500
Email Address: cio @ davaocity.gov.ph
Postal Address: City Information Office Room 28, City Hall Bldg., San Pedro St., Davao City, 8000 Philippines

List of Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Davao City Philippines

Name of Center: Davao City Treatment and Rehabilitation Center for Drug Dependents
Website: http://www.davaocity.gov.ph/rehab/
Postal Address: Brgy. Bago Oshiro, Tugbok District, Davao City
Email Address: genegulanes@yahoo.com
Contact Person: Dr. Gene L. Gulanes, Center Manager
Telephone Number: (082) 293-0252
Email Address: rcdd @ davaocity.gov.ph
Type of Ownership: Government

Name of Center: New Day Recovery Center, Inc. (NDRC, Inc.)
Website Address: http://newdayrecoverycenterdavao.com/
Postal Address: Babista Compound, Beach Club Road, Lanang, Davao City
Telephone Numbers:
- Appointments: (082) 233-1719
- Admission: (082) 233-1719 loc. 106 (ndrc_psychward@yahoo.com)
- Administration: (082) 233-1719 loc.107 or 115 (newdayrecoverycenterhr@yahoo.com)
- Fax Number: (082) 233-1719 loc. 104
Ownership Classification: Private

Name of Center: CHD XI Outpatient and Aftercare Center for Drug Dependents
Postal Address: CHD Davao Region, J.P. Laurel Ave., Bajada, Davao City
Telephone Number: (082) 305-1495
Contact Person: Mr. Rustum Fanugao Jr. - Officer-in-Charge
Ownership Classification: Private

Davao del Norte Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.davaodelnorte.gov.ph/
Telephone Numbers: (082) 217-3199, (082) 217-3340
Fax Number: (082) 400-2678
Postal Address: Provincial Capitol, 8100 Tagum City, Davao del Norte

List of Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Davao del Norte Philippines

Name of Center: Luntiang Paraiso Regional Rehabilitation Center
Postal Address: Purok 2, Brgy. Poblacion Municipality of New Corella, Davao del Norte
Mobile Number: (0916) 374-7024
Contact Person: Mrs. Gabriela S. Logronio, RN, LLB - Officer-in-Charge
Ownership Classification: Private

Davao del Sur Local Government Unit Contact Information

Telephone Number: (082) 553-3761, (082) 553-2105, (082)553-3771, (082) 553-9143 (082) 553-
Postal Address: Provincial Capitol, 8002 Matti, Digos, Davao del Sur

List of Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Davao del Sur Philippines

Name of Center: Anti-Drug Abuse Council – CMO
Postal Address: C. Bangoy Sr. Street (beside 7-Eleven), Davao City 8000, Davao del Sur
Telephone Numbers: (082) 225-0102; (082) 225-1216
Ownership Classification: Government

Name of Center: AP Dela Cerna Hospital Psychiatry & Rehabilitation Center
Postal Address: Cabantian Road, Buhangin, Davao City 8000, Davao del Sur
Telephone Number: (082) 241-0669
Ownership Classification: Private

Name of Center: Babista Psychiatric Hospital & Drug Rehabilitation Center
Postal Address: Lanang, Davao City 8000, Davao del Sur
Telephone Number: (082) 234-1002
Ownership Classification: Private

Davao Oriental Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://news.davaooriental.com.ph/
Email Address: davaoorientalcomph@gmail.com
Telephone Number: (087) 811-5030, (087) 811-5013
Postal Address: Capitol Hills, Mati City, Davao Oriental

Tips and Tricks on How to Quit a Negative Habit

Getting Rid of Negative Habits 

Addiction is one of the most serious cases in the Philippines today, but do you realize that if we take a thorough look at the lives of the victims of addiction, they, at some point earlier in their life, were also capable of choosing not to fall into the things they are addicted to today? All addiction victims had their minds gradually conditioned to become addicted – in other words, addiction is simply a negative habit.

What Are Habits?

Habits are an essential part of a person’s life. By psychological definition, habits are ways of thinking, willing and feeling that a person subconsciously develops over time because he or she keeps doing it repeatedly.

A good example of this is a person who decides to always go to work on time. From the time he starts making good on that decision, he will become accustomed to doing it that in the future, he won’t even have to think about waking up early; he will subconsciously do it because that is what he has been doing all this time. In other words, he has developed the habit of punctuality.

From the example, we see how essential habits are to building our ethics and personality. Forming good habits enables us to become more productive and helpful to our community, making us better people as we mature. However, there are also certain habits that don’t benefit us. These negative habits, if not addressed, can eventually lead us to destruction and demise, literally. Because of this, it is essential for us to make sure that we always form positive habits, all the while breaking the negative ones that have been developed along the way.

Negative habits don’t break easily, but they can be broken. Since habits are developed over time, quitting negative habits will take your time, effort and patience. Here are five simple yet profound principles that will help you quit your negative habit:

1. Acknowledge the Problem and Desire to Get Rid of It.

The only way to address an issue is to know it, completely – and this isn’t just talking about being aware that you have a problem, but actually acknowledging that you have a negative habit and must break it. Breaking a negative habit starts when a person realizes that it exists and is destroying his life, and he must quit it to make his life better. It may not be easy at the start but as you begin to take actions, you will get used to it and will soon realize the benefits.

2. “Reposition” Your Mind.

All habits are formed in the mind, and in order for a person to quit a negative habit, the first area he needs to address is his thinking. Do you know why addiction victims cannot get out of their problem? It is because they keep on thinking, “I’m an addict. I’ll never get out of this.”

Set your mind the other way around and start believing it, even if you catch yourself still doing the same thing. For example, if you want to break obesity, stop saying “I’m fat”. Instead, start believing and declaring, “I am getting slimmer. I can control my appetite.” This mindset will allow you to be motivated enough to do what it takes to achieve your goal.

3. Set Your Goals and Make Plans on How to Reach Them.

Negative habits are formed because people get used to doing things over and over. And in order for someone to do something, he must have a goal – whether he is conscious of it or not. In the same way, freeing yourself from negative habits will require you to set a goal – not just the overall goal of quitting that negative habit, but everyday goals of what you need to do, what you need to avoid, and so on and so forth. Setting a specific goal can help you focus on something that you really want to achieve.

4. Exit The Old, Enter The New.

Do you know that the law of physics states that when you empty a space of a certain object, something else will replace it? It applies to our habits. You can’t break free of negative habits and leave it that way. For example, if you plan to stop smoking or quit drinking alcohol, you can’t leave it at that. You have to find something else to do. Try out recreational activities that will occupy your time and attention, thus re-programming your mind to like something else instead of what you used to be addicted to. Try to engage to something worth doing and that you also enjoy. As time goes by, you will see that you have allow yourself to forget the negative habit and connect to a positive one.

5. Get Help. You Can’t Do It On Your Own.

Finally, seek assistance. People don’t form negative habits without outside help. Drug addiction victims became so because someone gave them drugs in the first place. Inversely, you cannot break the negative habit and form a positive one without someone lending their aid. Look to the people who care about you. They want to help you, and all you have to do is to accept it. Involve family members on your plans. Ask for their supports. If necessary, create new circle of friends who have the same goals as yours.

Guide in Choosing a Rehab Center in the Philippines

Having trouble deciding which rehab center in the Philippines suits you or your love ones condition? Here are some tips.

You suspect that one of your family members are suffering from addiction problems, and upon having him or her sent to one of the DOH-accredited drug testing facilities, you find out that your worst fears have materialized – one of the people closest to you is an addict. The physician recommends that the person be sent to a rehabilitation center, but you have some doubts on whether or not the rehabilitation treatment would be effective. You are a bit baffled on what are the steps you should do in choosing an effective rehab program for him. How do you know which rehab center gives the best treatment? And how can you tell if it is appropriate to the drug dependent’s level of addiction?

Rehabilitation centers in the Philippines all follow a specific guideline in order to operate with accreditation, but their programs and methods of treatments may vary in many ways. All of them, however, follow a sequence of detoxification and rehabilitation, which enables the victim to be comfortable throughout the treatment.

In choosing the right rehab center to treat a person’s addiction issue, one must always keep in mind that the goal of getting someone rehabilitated is not just so they could overcome their addiction temporarily, but to completely turn away from the things that they used to be addicted to and at the same time start afresh without having to live with guilt and condemnation. It is vital for a drug dependent’s recovery to walk into a whole new world once he leaves the rehab center. These guidelines will help you choose the right rehab center for you or for your loved ones:

1. The Detoxification and Rehabilitation Programs

The first thing that you should research about a rehab center is the programs that they employ to treat addiction cases. Each rehab center has their own method of treatment, even though many of them follow the same system. One treatment program may work for a particular person, but may not be effective for another. Addiction level differs for each patient, requiring different solutions.

A person with psychiatric disorders as a result of extreme drug abuse will need a different detoxification and rehabilitation approach from a person with mild symptoms. The duration of the program is also considered in choosing a rehab center as there are patients who requires longer treatment than others.

Why when sending someone to a rehab center, you must first understand the kind of needs that the victim has – physiologically, psychologically, and emotionally. A good rehab center would also focus on a person’s spiritual needs, as most Filipinos’ mindsets are directly affected by their spiritual beliefs. It is also essential that the program incorporates a lot of family therapy sessions, as the addiction victim feels more comfortable when in the company of his or her family.

2. The Period Between Detoxification and Rehabilitation

You should also consider the length of time it takes for an addiction victim to undergo rehabilitation once he/she finishes detoxification. Most experts agree that the sooner rehabilitation starts after detoxification, the better. This way, the potential of the victim falling in drug relapse is minimized, and the chances of getting him or her to turn away from the addictive substances becomes greater.

3. Facilities and Equipment Used By the Rehab Center

Facilities and equipment are also important, as they provide a comfortable and enjoyable environment for an addiction victim, thus making his or her rehabilitation more effective. Accredited rehab centers normally have arts and recreational facilities, chapels, comfortable rooms, clean dining halls and classrooms. These are the things that you should look for when being toured inside of a rehab center. You should find certifications and permits displayed somewhere public, which ensures you that the rehab center has undergone numerous testing and has been accredited to operate properly. The center should also be secured and should not put any patient from any harm or risk.

If the rehab caters male and female patients, it should have a separate dormitory or with separate comfort rooms.

4. The Staff – From the Psychiatrist to the Nurses

Finally, when you have time, talk to the staff. The psychiatrist is one of the most important factors in an addiction victims’ treatment, as he or she is the one that guides the victim all throughout his or her rehabilitation. It is not enough for the psychiatrist to simply be certified; have small talk with the psychiatrist so that you will find out whether his or her personality and methods would effectively help the addiction victim. Medical staff should also have certification in addiction medicine, and they should be available 24/7. The rehab should provide the patient a secured facility and environment and staff members that are dedicated and each has the comprehensive professional knowledge in dealing with addiction.

5. Aftercare Programs and Continuous Monitoring

It is not the end of the person's journey after his release from inpatient rehabilitation programs. Support from the family members is extremely needed for the patient who just came out from the rehab. It cannot be denied that the person after rehab has all the apprehension and anxiety of what problems he has to face outside the rehab.

When a person goes back home from rehab, he finds himself vulnerable to the outside environment in the absence of supportive people inside the rehab. He is prone to backslide to the old world where he came from. He may be back to socializing again with old acquaintances where alcohol and prohibited drugs are offered once again to him with no hesitation. There are lots of temptations for this person to relapse.

Rehabilitation is one of the most effective means of treating addiction cases, but each addiction victim has his or her own needs and personalities that will need to be specifically attended to. Choosing the right rehab center will not only help speed up the rehabilitation, but it will also ensure a more effective and permanent solution for the victim.

Can You Force a Family Member to Enter a Rehab Center

Forcing a Loved One into a Rehabilitation Center in the Philippines

This article answers these questions: Can I put my father or my mother in a rehab facility even without his or her permission or knowledge? Is it possible for a brother to force his sister to enter a rehab center even if she resists? Does the government has the right to send an unwilling citizen to a drug treatment institution?

Rehabilitation is one of the most effective ways of dealing with addiction issues, but it isn't easy for a person to voluntarily put himself under rehabilitation. Most of the drug dependents and alcoholics are in the state of denial and in some cases, they are not aware of their real condition. And when someone agrees to undergo rehabilitation, that person exposes his or her addiction weaknesses and thus becomes a target for discrimination; as a result of this, a lot of the victims of addiction in the Philippines opt to not undergo this type of addiction treatment.

R.A. 9165, Section VIII: The Law Concerning the Rehabilitation of Drug Addiction Victims

When a law concerning rehabilitation was passed by the Philippine Congress in 2002 (R.A. 9165), a provision was included in which only a person related by blood up to the fourth degree can recommend that a person whom they believe is a victim of addiction undergo rehabilitation. Any person who is proven to be under the influence of dangerous substances such as drugs after undergoing a drug test by DOH-accredited physicians will then be admitted to a rehabilitation center after a court order has been issued, after the addiction victim agrees voluntarily. If the victim is a minor (18 years old and below), it is the responsibility of his or her family member to file a request for him or her to be rehabilitated.

However, a person may also be admitted into a rehab center by force if he or she is found to be a victim of addiction while being prosecuted for a crime that has a penalty of less than six years and one day of imprisonment. In this case, the victim will be sent for rehabilitation in a DOH-operated facility (such as those based in Taguig, Bicutan and Tagaytay City) even without the consent of the victim. This applies to both minors and adult offenders.

Criticisms of Forced Rehabilitation: Its Disadvantages

Throughout its years of implementation, the compulsory admittance section of R.A. 9165 has been criticized for its provisions regarding a forced admission of an individual into a rehab center once it is proven that the person is under the influence of drugs. Many human rights activists in the Philippines have argued that not only does the law subtly violate an addiction victim’s right to freedom of choice, but it also results in a significantly reduced effectiveness of the rehabilitation treatment due to the person’s unwillingness to undergo rehabilitation.

It is essential to learn that rehabilitation treatments employ a lot of psychological factors, which would mean that in order for them to work, the patient should voluntarily agree to be treated. However, in a case wherein a person is forced into rehabilitation without his/her consent, the process may not work as effectively and the person may end up resuming his or her addictions once released because the main issue has not been dealt with – the willingness of the person to turn away from addiction.

The Other Side of the Coin: How Forced Rehabilitation Can Still Do Its Work

While there are indeed some cases wherein the effectiveness of being forced into rehab centers is significantly reduced, there are also cases where an addiction victim who compulsorily goes into rehabilitation successfully recovers from his or her addiction.

Many on the other side of the coin argue through observation that while an addiction victim may initially resist (as it is with many of those who enter rehab centers) being placed into rehabilitation, once they undergo the program they would gradually open up more and eventually allow themselves to be treated.

Furthermore, the programs used by many rehab centers in the Philippines were created with this kind of case being put in mind, which meant that the rehabilitation physicians already expect that an early rehab patient would always have their defenses up during the initial stages of the treatment, and as such used tactics that would cause the patient to slowly become less defensive and accept the fact that they need to turn away.

When we look at the case in a bigger perspective, what ultimately causes the rehabilitation treatment to succeed is conditioning an addiction victim’s mind that he or she needs help because the addiction is destroying him or her. That awareness of the danger of addictive substances must begin at home; with the parents constantly educating their children on what is right. Because the truth of the matter is that prevention is indeed better than cure.

Costs and Fees of Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in the Philippines

How Much Does Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers Charge to Their Patients?

Rehabilitation is expensive, but addressing a person’s addiction issues will cost more in the long run and can be very harmful to both him and to the people around him. This is true particularly for severe SUBSTANCE addiction issues such as illegal drugs and alcohol, which not only corrupts a person’s sanity and personality, but also causes a person’s body to breakdown much faster than it should. Every time a person abuses alcohol and drugs, it dramatically increases the possibility of liver, brain and heart diseases. In this situation, it is actually sensible to invest to a rehabilitation facility to prevent further damages than to spend the money to the treatment of its associated illnesses. Not only that it is beneficial to the health aspect but also covers the financial side of the issue.

Seeking professional help from rehab centres is also favorable to the familial and social aspect. Most of the programs of these facilities include family therapies that allow family members to show their full support to the patient. This family support systems provide the patient the motivation and inspiration he needs in order to continue walking on the right path. Rehab programs also involve social reintegration so that recovering individuals will have an easier return to the society. In fact, there are many private rehab centers in the Philippines that provide jobs for their residents who just completed their rehab program.

Why Many Filipinos Do Not Opt To Get Rehabilitated

In the Philippines, a lot of people suffering from drug or alcohol addictions prefer not to have themselves rehabilitated mostly for two reasons: the fear of being discriminated by others for having an addiction, and the concern to the costs and fees with doubts of whether or not the rehabilitation will succeed in taking away that person’s addictions.

This is a result of a misunderstanding of the effectiveness of rehabilitation in the community. We need to have campaigns that will make people aware of the danger of leaving the victims of addiction as they are and the positive and long-term results of having them rehabilitated. As said earlier, when viewed in the proper perspective, undergoing rehabilitation effectively costs less compared to not doing anything at all. People who have been diagnosed and treated early will expect less expenditures and will have a better chance of recovery.

The Cost of Getting Rehabilitated

There are around 60 rehabilitation centers in the Philippines, and most, if not all, are fully equipped to cater to the needs of drug or alcohol addiction victims. Privately owned rehab facilities usually cost more, with monthly prices ranging from 10,000.00 PhP – 100,000.00 PhP, depending on the facility and the type of rehabilitation that a patient may require. Government operated rehab centers cost less, with monthly fees ranging from 5,000.00 PhP – 10,000.00 PhP. For people who cannot afford to pay for monthly rehabilitation fees, most government-run rehab centers offer free rehabilitation programs. All you need is to visit your local government office to know more about the admission requirements and what local agency can help you.

The monthly fees cover the patient’s stay, the rehabilitation programs and most often, the day-to-day needs of the person. In government operated rehab centers, daily necessities such as food and water are taken care of by government funding, while in privately-owned rehab centers, they usually charge additional monthly personal allowance fees.

More Is Not Necessarily Better

A certain mindset exists in a lot of people that prevent those with addiction issues to have themselves rehabilitated. A lot of people believe that treatment facilities who charge less expensive fees have less equipment and less effective rehabilitation programs, which cause them to conclude that having one’s self rehabilitated in one of the less expensive rehab centers, would be a complete waste of money.

While there is truth in the fact that more expensive treatment facilities can afford to purchase advanced equipment or construct very comfortable spaces for the rehabilitation patients, it does not guarantee that these facilities are the best in effectively treating drug or alcohol addiction issues. A lot of government-run institutions have volunteer specialists that are among the best in their field, and design rehabilitation programs that are effective in treating addiction issues. It goes without saying though, that the environment does contribute to the speed of rehabilitation, which is one of the strengths of privately owned rehab centers.

In choosing the right rehab center, it is only practical that we consider how much it will cost us and how credible the name of the rehabilitation institution is. However, we must never forget that ultimately, it is the effectiveness of the treatment and the safety of the patient that should be our topmost priority. Victims of drug or alcohol addiction are people just like us, and have physical, emotional and psychological needs that should be addressed while undergoing rehabilitation.

The recovery of the patient and the long-term benefits are far more important than the costs and fees of the rehab center. If you or someone close to you needs proper care and medical attention, and you are seeking for a suitable and effective rehab center, you may want to visit our directory here.

Requirements for Rehabilitation Centers in the Philippines

Admission Requirements in Entering a Rehab Center in the Philippines

There are many Filipinos suffering from substance addiction. Many of them, including their family are continuously under pressure to overcome the damages and problems that addiction brings into their lives. Evidently, they need help and assistance from professionals.

Luckily, there are lots of private and government alcohol and drug rehab centers that can help them overcome their addictions. These institutions use variety of scientific and therapeutic approaches which include other family members into the rehabilitation process.

Rehabilitation is the most efficient and long-term scientific solution in treating cases of addiction. Rehabilitation centers utilize methods that does not only help victims of addiction effectively turn away from their addictions but do it in such a way that the victims feel comfortable while in the process and are encouraged to rejoin society without the fear of being discriminated for their former addiction.

In the Philippines, there are many rehabilitation centers that cater to different types of addictions. Whether government or privately operated, these rehab institutions have well-trained personnel and are equipped with the facilities that are needed to properly aid the patients in recovering from their addiction issues.

One of the finest examples of rehab centers in the Philippines is the Department of Health Treatment and Rehabilitation Center – Bicutan, which is recognized as the largest addiction treatment institution in Asia. This institution caters around 3,000 people at a time, with its patients ranging from street children to rich adults, all in need of help in turning away from addiction.

Getting admitted to rehab centers like the DHTRC is no joke, but if someone you know really needs help in getting free from addiction or you, yourself, think that you need to be rehabilitated, then there are few things that you will need to keep in mind in order to admit your friend or yourself to any treatment facilities.

Requirements for Being Admitted In Rehab Centers

All government operated facilities and most privately-funded rehab institutions have the same requirements concerning the admittance of a drug dependent or alcoholic. Normally, people suffering from alcohol or other forms of addictions only need a doctor’s request to be admitted into one of these facilities. For drug addictions, however, requirements such as these are needed:

A Drug Dependency Examination (otherwise known as DDE). If the person resides within Metro Manila, they can apply for a DDE at the Central Screening and Referral Unit located at the Rizal Medical Center in Pasig City. If the person resides outside of Metro Manila, they will need to visit the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council, or CADAC, in their area. The CADAC will then set an appointment for the DDE with a DOH-accredited physician.

Clearance papers from both the local barangay office and police precinct.

A “Certificate of No Pending Case” clearance from the Regional Trial Court (RTC), to ensure that during the time of rehabilitation, the patients have no cases filed against them. In case the person to be admitted has a case filed in the RTC, he or she has to first secure a “Certification of Suspended Sentence” to temporarily place the case on hold while the person is in treatment. If the patient is a minor and has a case at the RTC, he or she has to secure the same certificate with his or her guardian.

People who identify that they need help in removing their addictions (especially drugs) would voluntarily admit themselves in a rehab center. However, this is usually not the case here in the Philippines, where addiction victims often find themselves hiding their issues in fear of what people around them might say.

In cases such as this, the people closest to them can submit an affidavit stating that they are willing to send their relative or close friend into treatment. The Dangerous Drugs Board, which is the government institution responsible for handling drug addiction cases, will then file a petition for confinement with the RTC.

All rehab institutions are ready and willing to help victims of addiction to turn away from the things they are addicted from. If you need rehabilitation or know someone that does, all you need is to follow the simple admission requirements and you will be guaranteed that the person needing rehabilitation is well on his or her way to recovery.

If a person has a long history of addiction, he or she would need an intense and longer treatment. Regardless of the level and the duration of the course, an aftercare program is vital for a long lasting recovery. There are many available aftercare programs that can help an individual manage his life after rehab. It is advisable to regularly visit and attend aftercare support system. The first couple of months are the most crucial when it comes to relapse. And this must be addressed by allowing the center to monitor your condition when you leave the treatment facility.

The Roles of Rehab Centers in the Philippines

Important Tasks of Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Centers in the Philippines

Alcohol and drug addiction is one of the biggest problems of the modern Filipino society not just because of the huge number of people that fall victim to it but also because of its long-term effects on the lives of the addicts as well as the people close to them. It does not matter where they get addicted – age-old addictions such as drugs or alcohol (also known as substance addiction), or modern addictions such as computer games (or non-substance addiction) – people who fall victim to the clutches of addiction all suffer the destructive effects of whatever they are addicted in.

Fortunately, there are ways to treat this negative condition. Currently, rehabilitation is the most common and effective form of getting people out of their addictions. In the Philippines, there are around 60 registered rehabilitation centers (or “rehab” centers, as they are popularly called) and dozens more scattered across a country that is home to more than 98 million Filipinos, which is quite concerning considering the percentage of addiction cases in the country.

Why Rehabilitation is Important, and Why Rehab Centers are Necessary

The concept of rehabilitation is simple, but its results are long-lasting and more effective than any other scientific method of dealing with addiction issues. The rehabilitation tactics mostly involve psychological conditioning, which in many modern studies have proven to be the most effective means of addiction treatment. Rehab centers play a great role in helping addicts get back on their feet by using methods that gradually cause them to cease their interest in whatever they are addicted in.

Alcohol and drug rehab centers also provide guidance when it comes to dealing with withdrawal symptoms, which can be dangerous if not addressed accordingly. These symptoms occur when a dependent chooses to abstain from drugs or alcohol that the body has been accustomed with. These physical and psychological episodes can escalate dramatically and can cause serious health issues. Rehabilitation centers provide medical treatments in coordination with a licensed physician of a legitimate hospital.

One of the main reasons why rehab centers are the most effective means of rehabilitating victims of addiction is they provide an atmosphere of comfort and acceptance that addiction victims could not receive outside. Normally, when a person becomes addicted, everyone else around that person starts seeing him or her differently – most often negatively.

The depression felt by the victim as a result of being looked down upon plunges him or her further into the depths of despair, causing that person to abandon all hope of rescue or treatment. Rehab centers prevent this from happening by putting them into an environment where they will be encouraged to believe that there is still hope. Afterwards, rehab centers provide alternative sources of enjoyment and fulfilment to divert the former addict’s attention from what he/she used to be addicted to into something recreational and fulfilling. It is vital for them to feel that they exist because they have a purpose in life.

Rehabilitation not only invigorates and empowers the victims of addiction to lose interest in the things they used to be addicted to, but this treatment also enables the reconciliation of relationships between the victims of addiction and their families. Rehab patients undergo programs that not only take away their addiction, but also teach them how to cope with life and get back into society without the fear of being discriminated or persecuted. Social stigma is one of the main causes of relapse when the patient leaves the facility. Rehab centers teach recovering addicts and alcoholics life after rehab so that they can easily get their feet back into the society they belong.

The Current Dilemma of Rehab Centers in the Philippines, and How It Can Be Resolved

With the remarkable success rate of rehab centers in treating cases of addiction, it is alarming to realize how there are so few of these institutions in the country, and how only a few Filipinos actually turn to rehab centers to treat their addiction issues.

Probably the most pressing reason is the extreme cases of poverty in the Philippines. A lot of people find rehab centers expensive and less practical; most Filipinos would rather ignore the addiction issues of their family members than spend money and send them to treatment facility where they would get real attention. This mindset often leads to the worsening of addiction cases, resulting in bigger problems in the future. Moreover, substance abuse related problems such as domestic violence, crimes on the street and illegal activities increase affecting those people who are innocent.

It is essential for the Filipino people to realize how important rehab centers are in addressing the addiction issues in our country. For this to happen, awareness campaigns can be started to inform and encourage people to support rehabilitation institutes.

Rehabilitation is not an overnight solution; there is no scientific solution that would promise you quick results. If it took drug dependents and alcoholics a long time to succumb to their addictions, it will take some time for them to completely turn away from it. But there is one thing that rehab centers can guarantee – the procedures used in these treatment institutions will ensure that the results are long-lasting and effective.

Bicol Region List of Rehab Centers

Non-government and Government Alcohol and Drug Abuse Rehabilitation Centers in Region 5, Bicol Region, Philippines

Here is the list of private and government alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers in Bicol Region (Region 5) in the Philippines covering the provinces of Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate, Naga and Sorsogon. We also included the respective local government unit contact information so that you can easily get in touch with them. The list is followed by a brief but informative article about drug and alcohol addiction.

Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Region 5, Bicol Region, Philippines

• Albay
• Camarines Norte
• Camarines Sur
• Catanduanes
• Masbate
• Naga
• Sorsogon

Albay Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://albay.gov.ph/
Postal Address: Provincial Capitol, Legazpi City, Albay , Philippines, Philippines
Telephone Numbers: (052) 481-2555

Legazpi, Albay Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.legazpicity.gov.ph/
Postal Address: 2nd floor, Legazpi City Hall, Rizal Street, Legazpi City
Telephone Numbers: (52) 480-0139, (52) 481-0659
E-mail Address: richardyuson@yahoo.com, mariceljuloc@yahoo.com

List of Private Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Albay Philippines
The list covers the area of Albay in Bicol Region.

Name of Center: Malinao Treatment and Rehabilitation Center
Mobile Number: (0932) 472-5270
Telephone Number: (52) 824-4439
Postal Address: Brgy. Comun, Malinao, Albay, Philippines
Website: https://www.facebook.com/DOH5.MTRC/info

Camarines Norte Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.camarinesnorte.gov.ph/
Email Address: govegaytallado@yahoo.com
Mobile Number: (0939) 907-52147
Postal Address: Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, Provincial Capitol, 4600 Daet, Camarines Norte
Telephone Number: (054) 721-4304, (054) 721 2386

List of Private Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Camarines Norte Philippines

(no center found) Help us expand this list. Contact us.

Camarines Sur Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.camarinessur.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ProvinceOfCamSur
Postal Address: Camarines Sur, 4418 Pili, Camarines Sur
Telephone Numbers: (054) 477-3159, (054) 477-3388, (054) 477-3172, (054) 475-3135

List of Government Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Camarines Sur Philippines
The list covers the municipality of San Fernando.

Name of Center: Department of Health Camarines Sur Treatment and Rehabilitation Center
Contact Person: Dr. Ma. Lourdes Anson, Officer-in-Charge
Telephone Number: (054) 478-4769
Postal Address: Pamukid, San Fernando, Camarines Sur
Website: Website: http://www.camarinessur.gov.ph/

Catanduanes Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.catanduanes.gov.ph/
Tel Nos: (052) 8113225, Telefax: (052) 8111335
Email Address: catanduanes_capitol@yahoo.com, sulong_catandungan@yahoo.com
Postal Address: Provincial Capitol Building, 4800 Virac, Catanduanes
Telephone Number: (052) 811-3599, (052) 811-1335

List of Private Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Catanduanes Philippines

(There are no drug and alcohol treatment centers in Catanduanes.)

Masbate Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.masbatecity.gov.ph/
Postal Address: 2nd Floor, City Mayor's Office, Masbate Building, City Hall Compound, Barangay Kalipay, Masbate City, Masbate, Philippines, 5400
Telephone Number: (056) 582-0781

List of Private Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Masbate Philippines
The list covers the city of Masbate.

Name of Center: Fazenda da Esperança - Masbate
Email Address: masbate.m@fazenda.org.br
Mobile Numbers: Fazenda Masbate (Center for boys): (0917) 501-4041, Fazenda Masbate (Center for girls): (0915) 780-9723
Postal Address: Bangad, Milagros, Masbate, Cathedral Compound, Danao Street, 5400 Masbate City
Website: http://www.fazenda-ph.org/

Naga Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://naga.gov.ph/
Postal Address: City Health Office G/F City Hall Annex Bldg., Naga City Hall Complex, Juan Q. Miranda Avenue, Concepcion Pequeña, Naga City
Telephone Numbers: 811-2562 811-3316

List of Private Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Naga Philippines

Name of Center: Fazenda de Esperanca - Naga
Telephone Number: Rehabilitation Center for Boys: (0927) 714-3399
Postal Address: c/o Parish Office, Metropolitan Cathedral, 4400 Naga City
Website: http://www.fazenda-ph.org/

Sorsogon Local Government Unit Contact Information

Website: http://www.provinceofsorsogon.com/
Telephone Numbers: (056) 211-1223, (056) 211-1600
Postal Address: Rizal Street, Pan-Philippine Highway, Provincial Capitol, Sorsogon City, Sorsogon, Philippines

List of Private Alcohol and Drug Rehab Centers in Sorsogon Philippines

(There are no drug and alcohol treatment centers in Sorsogon’s directory. We are on the process of completing the list. Help us by contributing here.)