How I Found Hope in Southern California
10/1/2018

“Challenges are what make life interesting. Overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”
– Joshua Marine
Countless individuals have packed up, taken a risk, and flown across the country to start a new life in the Sunshine State. I know, I’m one of them. It was fall of 2013 in a suburb of Philadelphia. I was at the end of another long run of drinking and taking every substance I could to achieve the “perfect balance”. Just like every other time, I had started out with a great job, girlfriend, and the respect of those around me. At the end of my run, I had none of those things. All I had was the incomprehensible demoralization of waking up and immediately downing as much warm leftover alcohol as I could - followed by a series of pills. I had little hope of ever getting better and no chance of getting any more support from friends or loved ones. I had burned every bridge, used every excuse, and I was out of ideas.
I received a call from a friend who was going through similar struggles. They had found a facility in Southern California that treated addicts and alcoholics. I had been to rehab before, “attempted” getting clean and sober, and wasn’t that enthusiastic about doing it all over again. It didn’t matter though, I needed help, and the thought of living in the land of dreams sounded appealing. After a few phone calls and a couple more days of miserable living, I took a leap of faith. I packed a few things, bought a plane ticket, and showed up for my flight. What was going to be different this time though? I had been through all this before. That’s when I realized - I had been through all this before, but I had never been beyond it. I had to do something different this time.
So what was different? I decided I needed to completely give in. No more lies, no more doing things, “my way”. I listened to anyone who was willing to help. I told at least someone everything that went through my head. I was willing to put the action into the suggestions given to me. I was honest, open and willing. In front of me was yet another chance to change my life and I didn't want to waste it.
Fast forward 4 years, 8 months, 3 weeks, and 5 days. I have my own apartment, a beautiful girlfriend, a great job, I’m financially stable and independent. More importantly, I feel good about myself, I help others whenever I can, and have family and friends in my life. I am completely drug and alcohol-free. I feel comfortable in my own skin and, I am truly happy and grateful to be alive.
Getting Clean and Sober in Southern California
Beautiful weather, amazing beaches and a culture built for opportunity, Southern California is the perfect destination for a visit, a vacation, or a place to completely start over. Sunny Southern California is renowned for its climate and weather. With much of California having a Mediterranean climate with warm days full of sunshine, it doesn't get much more pleasant as far as weather is concerned. The world of tech startups and entrepreneurship is not unique to only northern California. Throughout the southern portion of the state as well, there’s an open-minded mentality that promotes growth and ingenuity. What does this have to do with addiction? Everything.
Why choose a drug or alcohol rehab in Southern California?
Maybe it’s from the open-minded mentality of the West Coast, or maybe from the aforementioned climate conditions. Regardless, SoCal has been for some time, a hot spot for recovery. In Orange County alone, there are countless 12-step meetings weekly. With an excess of addiction specialists, inpatient drug and alcohol rehabs, sober livings, IOPs, and 12-step meetings, there are multiple avenues to choose from when seeking recovery.
Is it possible to get clean and sober elsewhere? Of course. That’s just not my story. No matter where you are, however, it’s important to seek the right help. Unfortunately the addiction treatment industry - nationwide, is saturated with objectionable individuals and providers. The industry is loaded with unethical behavior around every corner. Fortunately, society is starting to become aware of this. It’s crucial to make sure the treatment facility you’re looking into is accredited, licensed, and has an explanation of their treatment regimens and long-term aftercare plans.
Don’t let fear of unethical characters prevent you from getting help though. Addiction is a disease that's chronic progressive, and potentially fatal. If you or your loved one is suffering, please, please know there is hope and help available. I’m living proof.
-Coastal Addiction Center Team Member
10/1/2018
Coastal Addiction Center is proud to be part of the ethics collaborative. Our mission is to provide honest and ethical treatment for addiction. If you or your loved one needs help with this disease please reach out to us. We are here for you.
Coastal Addiction Center
527 S Archer St, Anaheim, CA 92804
1(844) 627-3268