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by \!/_PeacePlusOne

Miami Chooses Between The 2010 Honda Accord V. 2011 Hyundai Sonata

The competition between new vehicles in the market has made it extremely difficult for new car buyers to make a decision. Automobile makers are trying harder then ever to produce the top vehicle in the market. Two vehicles that are currently going head-to-head in the midsize sedan market are the Honda Accord and the Hyundai Sonata. Although both vehicles have made their claims on which of the two is the better choice, we have gathered some facts for you that will hopefully make your decision an easier one:

-Trim Level Match Up: The Accord proves to be the more expensive vehicle with an average MSRP of 00 more per trim level. One advantage the Accord does have over the Sonata, is that it offers an EX-L V6 model. The Sonata on the other hand does not have a V-6 engine to compete with the Accord.

The object of his affections.

-Performance: For those of you looking for a performance vehicle, the Accord proves to be the better choice. The Accord V-6 out powers the strongest Sonata engine by 71 horsepower and 68 lb-ft of torque, for much better acceleration response.

-Comfort & Convenience: The Accord EX has slightly less interior volume then the Sonata due to its standard sunroof. However the EX has more hip room, shoulder room and significantly more rear legroom. Plus, the Accord LX has more interior volume than any Sonata, and adds more front headroom (+1.4‖) and rear headroom (+0.7‖) for greater all-around comfort!

-Safety: The Accord is designed with an Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, which enhances crash-energy management and crash compatibility. The Sonata has nothing like the Accord’s Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) to turn off the side airbag if a child or small-statured passenger is leaning into the airbag’s deployment path. Nor does Sonata have engine immobilizer technology to help prevent theft, another feature found on every Accord model!

-Pricing: Although the Sonata is priced at a much lower cost, the Accord has a higher residual value. Not to mention the Sonatas maintenance and repair costs are much higher then the Accords.

Still not satisfied with the facts? Go to your local Miami dealer and test drive the two vehicles. Shopping for a new car in Miami is definitely not the easiest thing to do, however getting the facts on each vehicle can make your decision a lot easier.

Related Automobile Makers Articles

by Brookhaven National Laboratory

Food, Mind, And Mood: The Connection Between What People Eat and How They Feel and Act

Nutritional factors can have a significant impact on brain function, which can result, if deficiencies or imbalances occur, in numerous mental aberrations, such as depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, autism, bulimia, anorexia and bi-polar disorder. Linus Pauling Ph.D., a two-time Nobel Prize winner, summed up this perspective well when he said, “It is now recognized by leading workers in the field that behavior is determined by the functioning of the brain, and that the functioning of the brain is dependent on its composition and its structure”. The composition and structure of the brain is largely determined by what types of foods and nutrients people ingest. The resulting composition and structure determines how the brain works and how people feel and act.

Although many researchers in the fields of behavioral sciences have discovered strong evidence that what people ingest can have a tremendous impact on a person’s emotions and behaviors, the connection is still often overlooked by most clinicians in the mental health field.

The nutrients that will be discussed here are vitamins B12, B6, and folate; the minerals iron, magnesium and zinc; the essential fatty acids, particularly omega 3′s and trans-fats. Food sensitivities will also be discussed. These sensitivities are often referred to as brain or cerebral allergens. There are many other nutrients that affect the brain, but this overview should give the reader an adequate representation of the significant impact nutrition has on the brain and therefore, moods and behavior.

The B vitamins, particularly, B12, B6 and folate have many connections to mental health. A vitamin B12 deficiency, which can be caused from a poor diet, poor digestion, or drug-nutrient depletion, has been linked to an inability to concentrate, poor memory, confusion, fatigue, moodiness, agitation, depression, mania, paranoia, psychosis, loss of alertness, social withdrawal, and hallucinations. A serious deficiency of B12 causes pernicious anemia. If this condition is persistent it can lead to permanent nerve damage. Much of the nerve damage can occur before any symptoms manifest.

B12 and folate often work together and many of the symptoms of B12 deficiency are the same for a folate deficiency.

The third B vitamin is B6. A deficiency of B6 is associated with agitation, insomnia, irritability, convulsions, depression, confusion and brain wave abnormalities. Vitamin B6 supports the formation of the neurotransmitters. Therefore, a deficiency can manifest in numerous ways depending on which neurotransmitter is most affected. Pyroluria, a condition caused by a genetic error in the metabolism of B6 and zinc, greatly increases the need for these nutrients. People with this condition will need to take many times the RDA of these nutrients to avoid a deficiency.

The main minerals that are connected to mood and behavior are iron, magnesium, and zinc. There are others, but a deficiency of these minerals is found most often in people dealing with mood and behavior problems. The first nutrient, iron, has been studied the longest and has a strong connection to mental aberrations. The deficiency of iron can adversely affect attention span, memory, learning capacity, and immune function. A deficiency of iron leads to anemia, which can produce pallor, fatigue, dizziness, irritability, constipation and difficulty swallowing and breathing. The prevalence of iron deficiency and anemia is massive. According to Whitney and Rolfes (2002),

Worldwide, iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency, affecting more than one billion people. Long before the red blood cells are affected and anemia is diagnosed, a developing iron deficiency affects behavior. Many of the symptoms associated with iron deficiency are easily mistaken for behavioral or motivational problems. (p. 433)

The next mineral is magnesium. The symptoms associated with a deficiency of this nutrient are apathy, agitation, irritability, personality changes, disorientation, bizarre movements, sleep disturbances, depression, and in some cases hallucinations. The likelihood that people are deficient in magnesium is high. As survey conducted in 1995 showed that as much as 72 percent of the population of the United States may not get the recommended amount of magnesium each day. Regarding specific mood and behavior problems, one study found that magnesium was the most frequent deficiency in ADHD children.

The third mineral that is strongly linked to mood and behavior is zinc. A deficiency of zinc is associated with headaches, lethargy, amnesia, other memory impairments, irritability, behavior disorders and paranoia. Zinc plays an important part in the ability to taste and smell. Because of these and other aspects, zinc seems to play an integral part in the etiology and recovery of eating disorders. Schauss and Costin state, “Many researchers, including the authors, have discovered that most anorexics and bulimics are zinc-deficient” (1997, December, p. 8). As stated earlier, with regard to vitamin B6, those with pyroluria will need to take higher than normal amounts of zinc to get a proper amount of usable zinc. Along with these nutrients (vitamins and minerals), the fats that people ingest can have a significant impact on brain function.

People are fat heads. This is not a derogatory comment, but a fact, based on the finding that fats make up about 60 percent of the dry weight of the brain. Because fats make up the majority of brain matter, the types and quantities of fats that are ingested and subsequently taken up by the brain can affect how the brain functions. Two particular types of fats, which are considered essential fats, are omega 3 and omega 6 fats. These fats play a pivotal role in brain health as well as the health of the whole body. These essential fats make up about 20 percent of the fats that compose the brain. More and more research is demonstrating the importance of these fats, particularly the omega 3 fats. Dr. Stoll, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard, has been a leader in the study of these fats. His recent book, The Omega 3 Connection, lays out much of the research, up to the year 2000, on fats and their connection to mood and behavior. Even more extraordinary perhaps are the emerging findings that omega 3 fatty acids are useful not just for bi-polar illness, but perhaps also in depression, postpartum depression, ADHD, stress, and even schizophrenia and autism. The clinical and healing power of omega 3′s are backed by hundreds of research studies in well-regarded scientific journals.

One of the significant changes that happened over the past century, regarding fat, is the dramatic increase in the intake of omega 6 fats and the decrease in the intake of omega 3 fats. The proper intake ratio of these two fats should be in the range of 7 to 1 to 1 to 1, of omega 6 and omega 3, respectively. It is estimated that many people have a ratio of over 25 to 1, respectively. The imbalanced ratio is implicated in brain problems and other degenerative conditions throughout the body. This imbalance of essential fats is a disaster for our moods. It’s very clearly an issue in depression, with rates of depression over the past one hundred years rising along with our consumption of omega 6 fats.

These substances are not the only dietary aspects that should be considered. Food sensitivities should also be addressed. The body can react negatively, known as an allergy or sensitivity, depending on the type of immune reaction, to certain compounds that are found in foods. These compounds have nothing to do with the amounts of micro or macronutrients they contain. Certain compounds in foods, such as gliadian and casein can cause negative reactions in the brain. These reactions, instead of causing runny eyes, digestive problems, acne and so forth, cause the brain to function abnormally. Any food or ingredient can be the culprit. However, there are some common foods that many people with mood and behavior problems tend to react to. The offending foods are gluten (gliadin) containing grains (wheat, oats, and barley), milk products (the protein casein), peanuts, soy, eggs, chocolate, citrus, coffee, and corn.

Often the offending food is one that is eaten often. If ingestion is stopped, for a day or two, a strong craving for that food will manifest. The reaction to the food can result in an array of mood and behavior aberrations, such as anxiety, ADHD, depression and panic attacks.

Cerebral allergies/immune reactions have been linked to brain inflammation, irritability, fear, depression, aggression, and psychosis. Over 90% of schizophrenics studied by Philpott displayed neurological reactions to food. Pfeiffer finds that in 10% of schizophrenias, cerebral allergy is the primary source of symptoms. Regrettably, the idea of brain allergies is still not widely accepted, therefore the testing that is available to detect if there are negative reactions are not utilized. Many people could be helped, to varying degrees, by eliminating foods that are causing reactions. The problem is that people are often not given the chance to see if it helps.

The following list highlights the nutritional strategies that can have a positive effect on cognitive and behavioral functioning.

- Pre & post natal – critical periods of development – the nutritional environment of the baby in-utero and during the first three years of life are critical to brain development. These periods of development lays the foundation for how a person will function during their lifetime.

- Avoid trans fats – from partially-hydrogenated oils

- Avoid sugar and processed carbohydrates

- Minimize omega 6 fats (soybean, sunflower, & safflower oils)

- Increase intake of omega 3 fats (flax and chia seeds, walnuts, leafy green vegetables, salmon, sardines, fish oil supplements)

- Eat plenty of high quality proteins

- Check for food sensitivities

- Check for anemia (iron & B12)

- Always eat breakfast (emphasize proteins & good fats)

- Take a high-quality multi vitamin and mineral

- Check for other nutrient deficiencies, particularly, folate, zinc, magnesium, iodine, D, & B6

These are not the only nutritional strategies that are available, but they are the most commonly recommended ones. These nutritional strategies can have a profound effect on brain function, as well as, the health of the whole body. However, these nutritional strategies are not a panacea for mood and behavior problems. Other lifestyle factors, such as, quantity and quality of sleep, amount of exposure to sunlight, types of past and present relationships, and the amount of exercise can all affect a person’s mood and behavior. Currently, the bio-psycho-social view, (biological, psychological and sociological, respectively), encompasses the holistic view to mental health. The area that needs to be emphasized should be based on each person’s unique needs, which should be based on an in-depth assessment of each area.

There are hundreds of high quality studies that have been conducted that show that nutrition can have a profound effect on mental functioning. Besides the solid scientific support, there are two additional reasons why the nutritional approach should be utilized.

First, the likelihood of any short-term or long-term negative side effects from nutritional interventions is very low. Secondly, the cost of the nutritional intervention is often much less than medications and/or long-term psychotherapy. However, as strong as the evidence is for this aspect, it is important not to lose sight of the multiple factors that affect mood and behavior, i.e., bio-psycho-social view. The problem is the nutritional aspect (part of the bio component) is usually not considered and therefore is not utilized in the treatment protocols of many mental health professionals. The current paradigm is disheartening and should be revised. Based on the evidence, everyone dealing with mood and behavior problems should have an in-depth assessment of their nutritional status. The bottom line, each meal could determine whether a person moves closer to or further away from a healthy brain, which can determine whether a person will have more or less of a stable and productive mood and behavior pattern.

More Eating Disorder Treatment Articles

by Ron Sombilon Gallery

The Differences Between Mortgages And Reverse Mortgages

There are many different types of mortgages, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, it is very important that you do your research. Understanding these differences will enable you to choose the right mortgage for your financial situation and housing goals. Now what is a mortgage? A mortgage is a loan secured by a property/house and paid in installments over a set period of time. The mortgage secures your promise that the money borrowed will be repaid. For most of us, a mortgage is the largest and most serious financial obligation we ever make.

You can get a mortgage direct from the lender like banks, building societies and specialist mortgage lenders, or you can use a mortgage broker. You can buy based on ‘information’ only or get advice and recommendation on a mortgage that suits your particular needs.

The two main ways to repay your mortgage are ‘repayment’ and ‘interest only’. With a repayment mortgage you make monthly repayments for an agreed period until you’ve paid back the loan and the interest (30 year-fixed rate being a common example). With an interest only mortgage you make monthly repayments for an agreed period but these will only cover the interest on your loan (example 5 year-fixed rate). You’ll normally also have to pay into another savings or investment plan that’ll hopefully pay off the loan at the end of the term.

Now you know what mortgage is, let’s take a moment to understand reverse mortgage. What exactly is a reverse mortgage?

Reverse mortgages are getting to be more and more common these days. Why? Reverse mortgage loan advances are not taxable, and generally don’t affect your Social Security or Medicare benefits. You retain the title to your home, and you don’t have to make monthly repayments. The loan must be repaid when the last surviving borrower dies, sells the home, or no longer lives in the home as a principal residence. Unlike a regular mortgage, the homeowner makes no payments and all interest is added to the lien on the property.

A reversed mortgage is designed specifically for homeowners who are age 62 and older. Through this product, you can receive loan money from your home in the form of a lump sum, regular monthly checks or a line of credit. The money is typically repaid with interest when you sell your house, permanently move away, or pass away.

You may be wondering how you can benefit from getting a reverse mortgage. Many people have found that the money they got from a reverse mortgage benefited them greatly. With a reverse mortgage you continue to get income, and defer repayment, for as long as you live at home – no matter how long that may be. A Reverse Mortgage maybe is exactly what you need!

There are many benefits that a reverse mortgage can give you. However, here are a few of the most significant. You will remain independent, no monthly mortgage payments are required, and you got freedom and flexibility. The money you get from a reverse mortgage is yours to use in any way you choose.

Exciting isn’t? If you don’t know exactly how much you’ll spend or how soon you’ll need it, a line of credit may make sense. Some reverse mortgage lines of credit are “growing” lines of credit meaning you may have more and more money available to you as time goes on. Reverse mortgages have helped hundreds of thousands of homeowners improve their quality of life in retirement. A Reverse Mortgage can help you retire more comfortably. It can provide you with money when you need it most. No Monthly Mortgage Payments, Easy Qualification, Tax-Free Money and No cash needed for closing costs. Can it get any better? If you’d like to find out how much money you qualify for and if you’re eligible, give us a call at (800)630-0650.

Tim Jacobs
Golden Years Mortgage Solutions
Your Money…When You Need It
www.GoldenYearsMortgageSolutions.com
(800)630-0650
tim@goldenyearsmortgagesolutions.com

Tim Jacobs @ Golden Years Mortgage Solutions www.GoldenYearsMortgageSolutions.com  (800)630-0650 tim@goldenyearsmortgagesolutions.com Golden Years Mortgage Solutions is a reverse mortgage approved FHA Lender. We’ve helped thousands of senior homeowners solve their financial problems. Our agents and brokers collectively have over 60 years of experience in Reverse Mortgage Loans and general financial services, including managers who are industry pioneers with more than 12 years of reverse mortgage experience. Our dedication to providing financial solutions for seniors is evidenced by the number of referrals that come from our existing clients.

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by Ken Lund

Auto Glass – All That Stands Between You and a Grisly Death!

Glass has been a crucial component in every automobile made for many decades now. It’s far more than merely practical however, serving as a valuable protection component, should there be an accident. Glass windshields first came into regular use in the 1920s, with the ability to mass-produce them efficiently enough for automotive use.

Auto glass is manufactured to withstand certain guidelines that are handed down to the industry through crash testing, and is more commonly known as “safety glass.” What many people don’t realize however is that there are actually two distinctly different types of safety glass – tempered glass, and laminated glass.

Tempered glass is most commonly recognized for the fact that when it breaks, it doesn’t shatter but instead merely crumbles into tiny pieces that are not actually sharp. It takes a great deal of force to cause this to happen however, as tempered glass is known for being extremely durable and resistant to impact and the elements. Tempered glass is most typically used for rear and side windows of cars.

Laminated glass behaves differently if broken, shattering into the ever-familiar “spiderweb” pattern, but not actually breaking into dangerous shards. It is made through a process of heat and cold, used to seal layers of plastic and glass together. The plastic holds the glass together and keeps the sharp glass from exploding when shattered, causing injuries.

If you find yourself needing a glass repair service, or to have a windshield replacement [http://lasertargeted.com/glassrepair/caught-windshield-replacement-scam.html] performed, there are a number of things you should look for. The National Glass Association certifies glass replacement technicians, meaning they should uphold the highest standards and use the best materials such as a urethane-based adhesive. These certified technicians should also verify the presence of any airbags, passenger or driver side, prevent any particulate matter from interfering with the adhesive bond, and clean and prime all surfaces and areas so they are properly prepared for the new glass installation. They should also explain to you, their customer, precisely what they’re doing, and how best to take care of your new auto glass for years to come.

When you’re hurtling down the road, that thin layer of glass is all that stands between you and a great number of potentially harmful impacts. Make sure your auto glass is handled by the best, as your life very well may depend on it!

LeBron, Carmelo, Wade, Paul among players attending negotiating session between NBA and union
NEW YORK (AP) — LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade and Chris Paul were among the players who attended a negotiating session between the NBA and the union Thursday.
Read more on FOX 8 Cleveland

by syvwlch

The Connection Between Stress and Fat Loss

It seems like everyone today is engrossed in the idea of losing fat. You may also be one of those fitness enthusiasts who don’t mind spending hours to burn some calories. But, have you ever been in a situation when everything seems fine and all of a sudden a bump comes in the road?

It is not hard to find yourself dealing with a critical situation after joining a weight loss program. Life is full of accidents and one can happen with anyone. That’s the point when your weight loss efforts will be out of the window. Stress is the biggest enemy for you while trying hard to lose fat. There are lots of people who don’t become able keep up with their weight loss program after finding them under sheer amount of stress.

Why stress hurts your weight loss efforts?

Actually, when you find yourself under stress, your cortisol level gets elevated. Cortisol is developed in the adrenal cortex and when adrenal glands produce more cortisol you find yourself fighting with many problems. One of the biggest problems of increased cortisol level is the weight gain and that’s too around the abdomen area which is most difficult to strip.

In simple words, stress increases the level of cortisol which contributes towards increasing your weight. It doesn’t only increase your weight but makes it extremely difficult to reduce it even by using different methods.

The way to get over this problem:

If you are also one of those persons who don’t know how to deal with your stress while keep pace with your weight loss program, then here are few of the tips to help you out.

1.    Taking some steps for the cortisol normalization is the only way to handle your weight gain problem. To get over your stress, you have to choose one out of many techniques available today. You can always opt for meditation or other physical activities to overcome your stress.

2.    You need to take some rest at the time of sheer stress. But, don’t go overboard with the idea of taking rest as it will hinder your weight loss progress.

3.    Use right type of diet. You can consult with your diet planner to find the right diet for you to deal with cortisol while keeping an eye on your weight loss efforts. Generally, a low glycemic diet will help in this regard and it will also help to stay away from diabetes which may be the end result of high stress and cortisol.

4.    Try using some nutritional supplements. A good multivitamin mineral supplement can also be considered in this situation.

5.    Find some time to talk to your friends and family members as it will always help to make things better while under stress.

Stress is a common problem but it doesn’t qualify to the fact that you should do nothing to cope with it. There are ways to overcome your stress and you must utilize them especially if you don’t want to waste all your fat loss efforts. So, stay calm as it is the best way to lose fat!

More Fat Loss Articles

by Sir Garlichad

Choosing Between Steam or Hot Water Heat: Advice for New Homebuyers

The home buying process can be complicated, with many details to consider. Should you buy a house with two stories or just one? Hardwood floors or carpeting? Laminate countertops or marble? When real estate markets are hot, and energy costs are stable, buyers have had a history of only looking at the superficial elements of the home, with few taking the time to really analyze the type of heating system that is in place.

In times where home heating costs are on the rise, knowing what kind of heating system you are investing in can be a big deal. The home inspection report can let you know what type of heating system is installed in the house, along with the age and condition of the system. Knowing these details about the heating system can help save you thousands in repair expenses, high heating bills or expensive system upgrades.

Water-based heating systems have proven to be a reliable source of quiet, even heating for many years. There are two basic types of water-based systems to consider: steam and hot water. While these systems differ in their operation and controls, they both utilize a boiler as the vessel to heat the water and a piped distribution system connected to radiators (or convectors) to provide heat in the individual rooms of a house. The most common type fuels used with residential boilers are gas and oil.

Steam Heating Systems

In a steam boiler, water is heated in much the same way as it is in a whistling teapot. As water in the partially filled teapot or boiler is heated to 212°F (100°C), it turns to steam while the pressure within the system increases. In a teapot, the excessive pressure is vented through a hole in the spout. In a steam heating system, the steam rises under low pressure (less than 5 psi) through the pipes to the radiators. On each radiator, an air vent opens as the steam increases the air pressure within the radiator. When the steam reaches the vent, it closes. As the heat of the radiator radiates to the room, the steam eventually cools and condenses to water, and, by gravity-flow returns to the boiler to be reheated.

All steam boilers require a pressure relief valve and a low-water cut off. Most steam systems have a manual feed valve to allow for the periodic addition of water to the system. A “sight” gauge on the side of the boiler indicates the water level. Water normally needs to be added every few weeks in order to maintain the water level at the one half to two thirds full level.

A steam system should operate without any excessive noise. If there is a “knocking” noise in the system, it may indicate partially closed or malfunctioning valves or sagging pipes. Constant discharging of the air or steam indicates a vent malfunction.

Hot-Water Heating Systems

Modern forced hot-water heating systems utilize one or more pumps to quickly and quietly circulate the heated water through pipes to convectors (or radiators). This type system is a closed system, relying on the physical relationship of pressure, temperatures and volume for safe and efficient operation. When the thermostat calls for heat, an oil or gas burner is activated and begins to heat up the water in the boiler. Depending on the particular system, the circulator pump will either activate to begin circulating the water throughout the house when the thermostat calls for heat or when the water reaches a pre-set temperature.

Most modern hot water boilers have an automatic feed system. As the water is heated, it expands. The extra volume is forced into an expansion tank, which helps prevent the build up of excessive pressure. A pressure relief valve is also required to ensure the boiler pressure does not reach excessive levels. Boiler temperature and pressure can be observed on a gauge mounted on the unit. Under normal operating conditions temperatures will range from 160° to 220°F (70-105°C), with water pressure in the 12-18 psi (pounds per square inch) range. Readings outside these parameters generally indicate that the unit should be checked.

The original hot water systems operated by gravity flow, with the heated water rising by convection through the distribution system. This type system also uses a manual feed valve and open expansion tank, usually installed in the attic or an upper closet. Gravity systems are rarely found in their original state; most have been replaced or have been modernized.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Steam and hot water systems have an economic service life of approximately 20-25 years; many operate beyond that time frame. Regardless of the age or type system, annual servicing is recommended. One attractive feature of forced hot water systems is the ability to break the systems up into zones, allowing for the separate control of the heating in the individual rooms or areas of the house. This is done by way of multiple zone valves and one or more circulator pumps.

Another type distribution system occasionally found with hot water boilers is referred to as a radiant system. Plastic or metal pipes are installed in the concrete floor slab or in tracks in a wood floor system then covered with finished flooring. There are no radiators; the heat radiates from the floor as the concrete is heated. The advantage of this type system is that it provides uniform heating at the lowest or generally coldest point in the house. Disadvantages with radiant systems include difficulty in determining or locating leaks and limitations on the type floor coverings used. While carpeting can be used with radiant heat, heavy padding and/or carpeting can lower system efficiency.

Arming yourself with information about the types of home heating systems available can help you make a more informed decision about which home is right for you. The level of maintenance, expense, and replacement timeline can have a strong effect on your decision to purchase the home. Making sure that you know the details before you buy can save you a lot of money and hassle over the long haul.

About HouseMaster

HouseMaster is the oldest and most respected home inspection company, with a network of independently owned and operated franchises in more than 365 markets across North America. In operation since 1979, HouseMaster has collectively performed nearly 2 million inspections, consistently delivering high quality service, innovative industry practices, and solid business leadership. For more information, visit http://www.housemaster.com.

by Rakel78 – Rakel Leah Mogg

Affordable Drug Rehab Treatment Vs. Luxury Treatment Centers…and Everything In Between

Most recovering addicts – or “ex-addicts” as some choose to term it – prefer to keep their personal struggles with addiction as quiet as possible when dealing with the general public. In the interest of drawing an important example, however, I will disclose one key element pertaining to my own previous struggles with substance abuse. Looking back from when I first reached the point in my addiction that required admission to rehab, to my very last treatment center not too terribly long ago, one consistency boldly stands out. As the years and numerous trips to rehab went by, the level of posh & luxury progressively diminished. From private accommodations and 5-star cuisine to skid row shelters and army cots in a gymnasium-type setting, my affluent upbringing and formal education became nothing more than a distant memory.

Today, I have the fortune of not only living a life beyond my wildest dreams, but the experience of having had numerous opportunities to work in various formal and informal addiction treatment settings, all of which have played an integral role into who I am today. Over the years I have been approached by many friends and family members of addicts that often pose the same question which is, and I paraphrase; “what type of treatment program works best?” And before I go any further let’s just get one thing very clear. The reasons as to why I did not remain sober following my initial trips to the nicer rehabs had absolutely nothing to do with the quality of care. My reasons for going in the first place were based upon nothing more than to get back in my family’s good graces, or to get the girl back, or to get the job back, or anything else along those self-serving lines. I had no intention and no desire to apply myself whatsoever toward a life of sobriety and hence, the long, arduous & painful road of active addiction lay ahead.

There are many variations of treatment, most of which will integrate a variety of elements which are often referred to as the treatment “modality.” Among the more common modalities out there are; 12 Step, Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Therapy, Holistic, Faith-Based, Work Therapy and others. The growing trend in recent years has been to incorporate a multi-disciplinary approach in which the facility will utilize certain elements of each treatment type in order to come up with their own modality and often market it as resulting in a higher level of success. The question then becomes, “what is their definition of success?”

Looking first at those treatment centers which are state, county and charity funded, they essentially offer what they offer and that’s about it. If you like it then great and if you don’t like it then leave, because there are likely 30 people standing in line behind you whom are desperate to get your bed. These are the types of programs that will usually provide an extremely “core-purpose” environment which, often begins with getting the addict off the streets and into a rigorous structure that involves group therapy, 12-step panels and meetings, work therapy in order to help the facility cover its costs, social-model structure that involves residents working with and overseeing eachother’s day to day behaviors & actions, etc. These types of programs are also commonly offered by churches and religious non-profits which provide a religious “faith-based” format in conjunction with the other elements previously mentioned. In most cases the majority of the residents living at publicly funded facilities are either indigent or just coming out of jails and prisons and are mandated to the facility as a condition of their parole.

There is no evidence suggesting that the above treatment facilities are less effective, however, than span of treatment options available are definitely narrower. My personal experience with publicly funded treatment is that most of the clients have been struggling with addiction for many years and already have a good base of knowledge pertaining to recovery. Also, it is much more common to see a bit of a rougher client mentality in such facilities as opposed to those focusing on private-pay clients due to their history of incarceration, gang life or living on the streets & shelters. In most cases however, the staff is extremely diligent in their efforts to change these behaviors and not allow things like “prison talk” and gang-type clothing.

For those with health insurance and/or the means to pay out of pocket there is a world of options! Among those are; luxury rehabs, holistic rehabs, non 12-step treatment, adolescent treatment, multi-disciplinary facilities, intensive outpatient settings, faith-based treatment, eating disorders centers, wilderness-type facilities, hospital-type facilities, medical & rapid detox locations, and others. One of the primary differences is whether or not the facility operates by what is termed the “Disease Model” approach, that being, providing treatment based on the belief that addiction IS or IS NOT a “disease.” It is most commonly agreed that addiction – whatever type it may be – is in fact a disease which is progressive and potentially fatal if not treated. Those that operate by this belief will nearly always incorporate the 12 step philosophy to varying levels (i.e., Alcoholics Anonymous).

Over the past 20 years or so there has been a growing trend of treatment options that do not operate under the Disease Model and boldly stand by the belief that addiction is a curable malady. These programs infuse a variety of components into their services such as; holistic treatments, vitamin & nutritional complexes, yoga, spirituality, physical exercise, specific therapeutic approaches, individual therapy, etc. Each facility is different and will be able to offer substantially more information based on the specifics of their approach than I will. Many higher-end Disease Model facilities will also utilize some of the above components in addition to 12 step education and meeting attendance.

In the case of luxury and higher end treatment centers, the key element to consider is what role does the luxury factor play into the core purpose of the program? One key difference in higher end treatment is the ability to fully customize a client’s treatment plan with much greater flexibility based on his/her individual needs. There also tends to be a stronger focus on individualized therapy and the ability to cater to any other co-occurring issues such as grief & trauma, PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, etc. Most mid-range facilities will treat co-occurring disorders as well but will often times not have an actual psychiatrist on staff and contract out this type of service on a case by case basis.

The range of treatment options in the middle of the cost curve are extremely broad; more so than in any other segment! Their modalities vary, and their ability to take insurance and provide financing options will vary as well. Many treatment centers in this realm will not take a singular approach to treatment, that is, they may operate under a disease model and take their clients to AA meetings in the evenings while also providing various holistic and unique therapeutic approaches during the day which are completely separate from the 12 step regimen. Most of these programs will have group therapy as well as individual sessions, however, the focus may vary depending on the foundation of their approach to recovery. Some will also take a religious approach called “faith-based” treatment which is utilized within the program structure to varying degrees and is most often based on Christian philosophies.

There has also been a dramatic rise in adolescent treatment as in lieu of the growing numbers of addicted teens. These types of programs operate under very stringent guidelines and are faced with regulations and protocols that extend beyond adult treatment environments. Some of these are actually in a wilderness setting that offer a broad focus on navigating through life by means of literally forcing the client to navigate through rugged terrain on various levels. The mentality behind this is that as addicts, we learn best through our own personal experiences, struggles and triumphs. Adolescents facilities are also mandated to provide formal education to the client based on state laws. For instance, if a 10th grader is forced into treatment due to addiction it does not necessarily mean that their schooling must be placed on hold. While some are more elegant than others, the one common denominator is that there must be an emphasis on growing up and taking responsibility for our own actions.

Across the board, regardless of what type of treatment setting we’re talking about, there are several common denominators. First, intermingling of clients on a romantic level is highly frowned upon and in many cases may result in expulsion from the program. Second, honesty is foremost. We’re all human and we all make mistakes and bad decisions from time to time, but those with the ability to be honest and forthright have a much higher likelihood of remaining sober. The chances of being removed from the program are much higher in cases when a client lies rather than in those in which he/she did something wrong but had the courage to remain honest, regardless of the anticipated consequence. Third, respecting fellow patients and staff alike is required. Addiction treatment is a bubble, a separation from real life enabling addicts to re-learn and enact many elements that outwardly may not seem to have any direct correlation to sobriety, but they do. The element of respect and decency plays an integral role in sobriety as well as life in general, and if the patient refuses to adhere to these principles and act accordingly then problems will always arise.

There is so much more to be said about the world of addiction treatment. I highly recommend visiting the National Institute on Drug Abuse website at www.drugabuse.gov. This is a government organization which offers a very objective and unbiased list of resources, articles, research studies, etc. For any help in locating a reputable addiction treatment center or sober living home around the country you are invited to visit www.sobernexus.com. Please feel free to contact me via the email link below if there are any questions or comments whatsoever.

by justinpocta

The Difference Between Us: Change Style Often With Ghd

In college, Jenny and I were rivals. We all had very high marks in our study. We took part in many activities to show our talents in other areas. Actually the only difference between us was that she was the person who followed the fashion and I was conservative. She changed her styles frequently and I always kept mine.

After graduation, Jenny and I accepted the appointment from the same company. We worked at different departments. Ok, we became rivals again. We both worked very hard in order to achieve our boss’s appreciation.

However, after some months, I felt something getting wrong. Every time I held a meeting, my subordinates seemed very bored and in low spirits. On the contrary, Jenny’s subordinates paid more attention in the meeting. They all discussed with Jenny warmly.

What was going wrong? Why my men seemed so lack of interest in my speech? I was sure that there was nothing wrong in my speeches. They were high-impact and logical. If there was nothing wrong with the speeches, there must be something wrong with me. What had I done that made them detest me? After thinking for a very long time, I came up with no result.
Eventually, I asked one of my subordinates what it was that they felt dissatisfied about me. He looked at me and said “Actually, we had nothing dissatisfied except one thing.” “What is it?” I asked eagerly. “Your ever unchangeable style. We are aestheticly tired. Every time we had meeting and saw your suit, your hair and your glasses, you never turned us on. And then we would feel that the meeting was not attractive, either. It is chain reaction. We all hope that one day we will see a different you. You are our leader and if you change your style, we will feel refreshed.”

After back home, I took the subordinate’s words into serious consideration. Maybe it was time that I changed my style. That Sunday, I went shopping with one of my friends. I bought clothes and changed for a pair of contact lenses. However, as to the hair style, I had some problems. How could I change the hair style so often? I was only an office lady and doing my hair often cost quite a lot of money. What’s more important, it needed a lot of time. I paid most of my time on work and I couldn’t waste the time on hair-do.

I asked my friend for advice. Hearing what I concerned, she quickly came up with an idea. She took me to a shopping mall. She said to me “I think this item can save some of your problems.”

I raised my eyes towards the item. It was a GHD hair straightener. She told me that I could make the curls in a barber’s and then if necessary, I could change it back at home. In addition, the GHD hair straightenter could make my hair seem gentler and more beautiful.

www.dreamteamtalk.com Oh yeah! We are back! After the turmoil of the last week with our website, we have whacked together an episode for this week which will hopefully make you feel good about your team… especially if you’re doing better than us! Highlights include * The Dream Team Bunch… ala The Brady Bunch – DT Talk style. * Advice on trading and not wasting your trades! * Calvin copping it from Presti the Parrot about his captain selections. * Chopper chopping Mark Seaby. Become a fan on facebook! www.facebook.com
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Between liwat and zina: Did DPP dump fiance for Saiful?
“It is the same isn’t it – zina and liwat . You can say under civil law there is specific provision to ‘hang’ anwar but under syariah law there is also punishment for zina .” By Wong Choon Mei, Malaysia Chronicle As Malaysians digest the latest sexual scandal in town, a debate has swept into town over which is worse – liwat or zina (sodomy or adultery). “If Saiful’s sexual affair with girl is …
Read more on Malaysia Today