Horizon Rehab Center has exciting news to share! We’re thrilled to unveil a complimentary educational support group initiative, crafted especially for the families and loved ones of people grappling with addiction and mental health issues. These monthly gatherings are designed to shine a light on the often-unseen emotional, psychological, and social impacts on families. Our goal? To arm them with the knowledge and tools they need for better coping, self-care, and providing meaningful support.
The Quiet Struggle of Families and Loved Ones
Addiction and mental health issues don’t play favorites. They don’t just affect individuals—they ripple outwards, touching families and loved ones in profound ways. In Thailand, this is even more challenging due to cultural stigmas surrounding these concerns, making it harder for families to reach out for help. Recent stats show a startling truth: over 60% of people in Thailand face mental health issues, stemming from a cocktail of societal, economic, and interpersonal pressures. Substance misuse is also climbing, with alcohol, benzodiazepines, and methamphetamine leading the charge.
The Office of the Narcotics Control Board in Thailand reports a shocking surge in methamphetamine use, with over 1 billion pills seized yearly. Alcohol consumption ranks among the highest globally, while benzodiazepine misuse is a growing concern, especially among expats in high-pressure environments. The recent legalization of cannabis has added a twist, sparking curiosity and misuse, especially among the youth, putting further strain on family ties.
For many expats calling Thailand home, cultural differences can loom large, leading to misunderstandings and mistrust within families. Battling varying attitudes toward addiction and mental health treatment often leads to emotional divides. “Families carry an immense but often invisible burden,” shares Jennisa Madan, Horizon Rehab Center’s trauma specialist and psychotherapist. “When a loved one is in distress, the family becomes their innate support system. Without the essential tools or education, this role can become overwhelming, damaging relationships, and even hampering physical health. Our new support groups are here to empower families, helping them regain balance in their lives while supporting their loved ones effectively.”
Introducing Horizon’s Educational Support Groups
Launching this February, these on-site sessions at Horizon Rehab Center’s Bangkok facility will delve into practical strategies and self-care techniques, guiding family members and caregivers through their challenges. Key discussion points include:
- Understanding Addiction and Mental Health: Unpacking the science and psychology behind these conditions.
- Setting Healthy Boundaries: Learning to support without enabling negative behaviors.
- Self-Care for Caregivers: Techniques to manage stress, prioritize well-being, and prevent burnout.
- Effective Communication Strategies: Conversations that cultivate connection and trust with recovering loved ones.
- The Role of Trauma: Examining how addiction and mental health disorders impact families across generations.
Licensed therapists and counselors, including Ms. Madan, who specializes in trauma recovery and family systems therapy, will lead these dynamic sessions, equipping participants with tools for navigating tough situations while fostering a healthier family dynamic.
Tackling the Stigma
Thailand, like many nations, frequently wrestles with the stubborn stigma surrounding addiction and mental health. These stigmas often prevent individuals and their families from seeking the support they need. Expats face an added challenge with judgment fears from both their native and host cultures, often leading to isolation and an emotional toll that’s hard to measure. “We hear families express feeling lost and unsure of how to assist their loved ones without sacrificing their own well-being,” adds Ms. Madan. “The aim of this program is to acknowledge these struggles and provide evidence-based guidance to foster sustainable and healthy family relationships.”
The Imperative of Family Support
Many families encounter significant societal stigma dealing with addiction or mental health challenges, which further isolates them and multiplies their stress. Consider:
- Caregiver Burnout: Families often put loved ones’ needs first, facing exhaustion and their own mental health challenges.
- Financial Strain: The economic burden of addiction and mental health treatment is daunting, often worsened by job loss or financial dependency.
- Social Isolation: Out of shame or fear of judgment, families might withdraw from friends and community.
By creating a hub for education, connection, and healing, Horizon’s support groups strive to reduce stigma, empowering families instead of leaving them feeling embarrassed.
Meet Horizon Rehab Center
Horizon Rehab Center, a part of the Thonburi Healthcare Group, is Southeast Asia’s frontrunner in addiction recovery and mental health services. Situated in Bangkok, we deliver evidence-backed, client-centered care with a holistic philosophy. Our innovative therapies include neurofeedback, trauma-focused counseling, and outpatient solutions, establishing us as a trusted haven for transformative recovery.
Why Horizon Rehab Center is a Cut Above the Rest
Horizon Rehab Center shines as a beacon of hope for individuals and families facing the multifaceted challenges of addiction and mental health. Nestled in Bangkok, the facility combines state-of-the-art therapies, holistic wellness practices, and personalized care, ensuring every client gets the support they need to heal and prosper.
- Innovative Therapies: We harness cutting-edge solutions like EEG neurofeedback and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients manage emotions, stress, and build resilience.
- Outpatient Programs for Flexibility: Unlike many rehabilitation facilities, Horizon provides outpatient options like our Day Program (Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM) and the Executive Burnout Program, offering structured care while allowing personal flexibility.
- Comprehensive Care: From medically supervised detox to trauma-focused treatments like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and mindfulness practices, Horizon crafts holistic recovery journeys.
- A World-Class Facility: Our clients indulge in luxury amenities such as swimming pools, saunas, fitness centers, and serene walking paths, all crafted to inspire relaxation and wellness.
This initiative is just what families need! Education can truly transform the way families support their loved ones with addiction and mental health challenges.
While the idea seems promising, I’m skeptical about its actual effectiveness. Just another program in a luxury facility?
I get your skepticism, but having access to these tools and knowledge can make a real difference. It’s not about luxury, but about providing a lifeline.
Also, who can really afford to spend time attending such programs in Thailand? It’s not feasible for everyone.
Agreed, Anna. It’s essential to tackle the stigma and support families in finding balance.
Why focus on expats? What about ordinary Thai families dealing with these same issues?
It’s a valid concern. I hope they also cater to local needs beyond the expat focus.
True, the cultural stigma affects Thai families just as much. They should emphasize inclusivity.
Reading about meth use in Thailand is scary. Programs like this need more awareness and participation from all communities.
It’s concerning, but another question is how effective such education is in truly combatting substance use?
Awareness itself won’t solve everything, but it’s a crucial first step toward change.
Perhaps drug education should be paired with public policy reform to handle substances better.
The legalization of cannabis may open doors to misuse, but isn’t education also about responsible usage?
Yes, informed decisions are crucial. Thailand should learn from other countries’ experiences with legalization.
I fear this could end up being one of those things that sound good on paper but lack real-world impact.
Perhaps, but if just one family finds peace and guidance, it’s worth it.
Culture and stigma are huge barriers. Support groups are needed, but we should also push for societal change.
I’m happy to see holistic approaches being prioritized. It’s about time mental health is seen as complex as it actually is.
Too many facilities focus on profit. I hope Horizon isn’t one of them hiding behind ‘luxury’ and ‘wellness’.
They seem genuine, with evidence-based approaches that aim to make a difference. But I understand your apprehension.
Where is the follow-up on these programs? Long-term involvement is critical for making a lasting impact.
We’ve been waiting for something like this! Families need a network where they feel supported and not judged.
Judgment is a huge barrier. Creating these safe spaces is a step towards dismantling it.
Exactly Lewis, judgment should be the last thing families fear when seeking help.
Do they offer online sessions? Accessibility is key, especially for those in rural areas.
Family dynamics are so tricky, but with proper guidance, they can transform!
I hope they consider the financial strain most families experience. Making it truly free is a lifeline.
Holistic methods backed by science are the way forward. Can’t wait to see it in action!
Luxury rehab centers often miss out on reaching the masses. This program could bridge that gap if executed well.