Understanding the Difference—and What Actually Leads to Lasting Recovery “If I Really Wanted to Stop, I Would… Right?” One of the most damaging beliefs people struggling with substance use carry is this: “I should be able to stop on my own.” Friends, family, and even society often reinforce this ideaContinue Reading
Understanding High-Functioning Alcohol Use, Hidden Dependency, and When It’s Time to Get Help “I’m Fine. I Go to Work. I Pay My Bills.” One of the most dangerous myths about alcohol addiction is that it only affects people whose lives are visibly falling apart. In reality, many people struggling withContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall April serves as a critical beacon for raising awareness about alcohol abuse, marking Alcohol Awareness Month. This period encourages us to consider the profound impact that alcohol can have—not only on individuals but also on families and entire communities. With research from the National Institute on AlcoholContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall In today’s fast-paced world, the phenomenon of binge drinking has emerged as a significant concern, posing serious threats to physical, mental, and social well-being. At Passages Malibu and Passages Ventura, we approach the challenge of binge drinking from a holistic and non-12-step perspective, focusing on the individualContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall As January draws to a close, you may find yourself reflecting on the experience of Dry January, a month dedicated to abstaining from alcohol. This period of sobriety isn’t just a fleeting challenge but a gateway to a deeper understanding of your relationship with alcohol and itsContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall Embarking on a journey towards sobriety and wellness is a transformative experience that can significantly enhance your quality of life. At Passages Malibu and Passages Ventura, we understand the profound impact of an alcohol-free lifestyle on your mind, body, and spirit. Through a combination of personal insights,Continue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall Challenges and profound introspection often mark the journey to overcome dependency. Chris Prentiss, the late co-founder of Passages Malibu and Passages Ventura, pioneered the approach to addiction treatment. His insightful perspective on inner healing has left a lasting impact on recovery. Understanding the Essence of Inner HealingContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall The world of addiction recovery lost a pioneering spirit in August 2022 with the passing of Chris Prentiss, co-founder of Passages Malibu and Passages Ventura. Prentiss, who succumbed to pancreatic cancer, left behind a transformative legacy in the field of addiction treatment. His holistic approach to overcomingContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall Passages Malibu, renowned for its exceptional addiction recovery services, acknowledges a paradox in the realm of substance abuse treatment. While offering comprehensive and empathetic care, we observe that numerous individuals battling drug or alcohol addiction still hesitate to seek professional help. Let’s explore the multifaceted reasons behindContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall The holiday season, often perceived as a time of joy and celebration, conceals a less-discussed reality: the significant rise in substance abuse. At Passages Malibu, we are acutely aware of this trend and its impact on individuals and families. Let’s delve into the statistics behind this increaseContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall Embarking on the path to recovery is a courageous and transformative decision. It’s natural to have questions and uncertainties. At Passages Malibu, we aim to make your journey seamless and supportive. From your first call to your time spent with us, every step is designed with care,Continue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall As the colors of nature change and days become shorter or longer, depending on the hemisphere, many individuals feel an inexplicable shift in their mood. Seasonal changes can have profound effects on our emotional well-being. At Passages Malibu, we recognize the intricate dance between nature’s rhythms andContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall Substance abuse is an escalating problem, often resulting from a desire to escape inner turmoil and emotional pain. However, rather than offering relief, drugs and alcohol often exacerbate these feelings, leading to a destructive cycle of addiction. This article will explore the relationship between substance abuse andContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of substance use, marijuana, hallucinogens, and binge drinking are increasingly prevalent. This article aims to shed light on these substances, their impact on mental health, and how our holistic, non-12-step treatment center at Passages Malibu can help navigate the path to recovery.Continue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall In the world of alcohol consumption, there exists a nebulous zone known as ‘Grey Area Drinking.’ This term, often overlooked in conventional discussions about alcohol abuse, is becoming increasingly prevalent. This article aims to shed light on what grey-area drinking entails, its associated risks, signs to watchContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall Alcohol consumption is a common social activity across the globe. However, excessive drinking can lead to severe consequences, including an alcohol-induced blackout. During such blackouts, an individual may continue to function but not remember their actions. This article aims to shed light on what happens to yourContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall Binge drinking is a common habit among young people trying to fit in with their peers. However, binge drinking puts you at risk for alcohol poisoning and other severe health conditions. It increases your likelihood of developing long-term problems like addiction, cancer, and other serious conditions. SoContinue Reading
by Jennifer McDougall The alcohol industry can be hard to avoid. You see advertisements for beer and wine on television, in magazines, and even on billboards and store signs. But do you know how these ads are made? The alcohol industry spends millions of dollars each year on advertising campaignsContinue Reading
By Jennifer McDougall You’ve finally decided to get sober. You’re ready to live a healthier and happier life, but you’re worried that your friends will think it’s boring or lame. The truth is, your friends can make all the difference when it comes to staying sober. If they party asContinue Reading
by Jennifer McDougall Alcohol is mainly broken down by the liver, which can metabolize around one standard drink per hour for males. Age, weight, gender, and the quantity of food consumed can impact how quickly the body processes alcohol. Sleeping or drinking water will not enhance the rate of alcoholContinue Reading