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Most Common Withdrawal Symptoms

Male wearing a blue striped button up shirt and black pants resting his arms on his thighs with his hands folded during a therapy session at North Star Treatment while his therapist is taking down notes.

Before anyone really gets into therapy, starts attending groups, or begins working through recovery goals, there’s usually one thing that has to happen first. The body needs time to clean itself out. That’s detox. It’s the point where drugs or alcohol stop coming in, and your system has to figure out how to function without […]

What Is Inpatient Rehab?

Client in a therapy session with a mental health professional at North Star Treatment, receiving personalized care in a calming, supportive environment.

Inpatient rehab—also known as residential treatment—is a live-in care option for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. It provides structured, around-the-clock support for people who need more intensive treatment than outpatient care can offer. Clients stay at the facility and engage in therapy, medical services, and wellness programming without the distractions of their daily environment. […]

What to Expect from North Star Treatment

Female holding a glass of water talking to her therapist about her addiction struggles with a licensed therapist wearing a blue suit at North Star Treatment.

Starting rehab for the first time can feel very intimidating. It’s a big step, and it’s totally normal to have questions, nerves, or even doubts. At North Star Treatment in San Juan Capistrano, we believe being open and direct about what treatment actually looks like can help make the decision feel a little more manageable. […]

What is a PHP?

Male speaking with a female therapist about sober living and what it entails with North Star Treatment

A closer look at Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)—who they help, how they work, and why North Star Treatment offers a trusted path forward.

Benefits of a 12-Step Program

A man speaks openly during a one-on-one therapy session at Northstar Treatment Center, highlighting the center’s compassionate approach to mental health and addiction recovery.

Learn what detox does to the body, how long it takes, and why professional help from North Star Treatment is essential for a safe, effective detox process.

What Is THCA?

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Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw cannabis. It’s the precursor to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. When THCA is exposed to heat through a process called decarboxylation—such as smoking, vaping, or baking—it converts to THC. In its raw form, THCA does not produce intoxicating […]

What Are Alcohol Shakes?

A hat, book, sunglasses, and a drink resting poolside

Alcohol shakes, also known as alcohol tremors or withdrawal tremors, are involuntary shaking movements that occur when someone who has been drinking heavily either reduces their alcohol intake or stops drinking altogether. These tremors are most noticeable in the hands but can also affect other parts of the body, including the arms, legs, and head. […]

What Are Amphetamines?

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Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that affect the central nervous system. They are frequently prescribed in an attempt to treat ADHD and narcolepsy, where they assist in improving concentration, boosting energy levels, and improving alertness. They achieve this through raising the levels of brain chemicals—mainly dopamine and norepinephrine—who are largely accountable for attention, mood, and inspiration. […]

Adderall: Risks and Side Effects

Close-up of a hand pouring pills from a prescription bottle, highlighting the dangers of Adderall prescription abuse and the need for treatment and recovery support.

Are you aware of the dangers linked to this popular stimulant? It’s important to realize that whether Adderall is taken as prescribed or misused for fun, it can cause various physical, mental, and emotional problems. Adderall treats ADHD and narcolepsy, improving focus and reducing impulsivity. However, it carries significant risks and side effects that may […]