Miracles Asia has long-standing partnerships with multiple services Australia that specialize in navigating the ATO guidelines & requirements for accessing superannuation funds. Together we will assist you through this often complicated and what can be at times a frustrating process, so that you are able to access your superannuation early in order to cover the full cost of your addiction treatment program at our rehab in Thailand.

The Australian government has provisions that allow for early access to super in cases such as severe financial hardship or on compassionate grounds. This article will guide you through the process of tapping into this funding resource that will help you or your loved one unlock access to the support needed to reclaim your life using completely legal methods.

Key Takeaways

• There are legal "loopholes" in legislation and regulations set by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Superannuation funds that allow you to access your super early for many reasons, but there are strict criteria for approval.
• The ATO includes addiction treatment and mental health programs in their criteria for accessing your super early on companionate grounds.
• Alternative options, such as loans or grants, should be explored before accessing superannuation early due to long-term implications.

Understanding Early Access to Super

Superannuation is typically considered an investment vehicle that can be tapped into when people reach a certain age (preservation age, 55 to 60, depending on your date of birth) that provides them and their loved ones with financial security during retirement.

There are exceptions available that can allow people this access to this investment before retirement - such as if you're in severe hardship or have compassionate reasons for wanting access to it early. To do this effectively, you must be aware of all related conditions and provisions in accessing funds before reaching the preservation age defined by your current super fund.

It is important to note that withdrawal from your superannuation fund is subject to Australian Tax Laws. We strongly recommend seeking the appropriate legal advice if you're considering using your super to fund addiction treatment with Miracles Asia.

What Is Severe Financial Hardship?

Experiencing severe financial hardship can enable people to get an early release of their superannuation funds.

Some example criteria may include:

• Unemployment
  If you have been out of work for a significant period and have exhausted all other forms of income support, you may be able to access your super via a severe financial hardship claim. Typically, you must have received government income support for a certain number of weeks without any employment or other forms of income.
• Debt or Family Living Expenses
  If you cannot meet basic living expenses such as food, utility bills, or essential car or home repairs and have accumulated significant debt, as a result, this could qualify as severe financial hardship. You must demonstrate that these expenses are essential for your immediate living needs and cannot be met by your current income and resources.
• Legal Expenses
  If you're faced with substantial legal expenses due to unforeseen circumstances – for example, a contentious divorce or unexpected litigation – and have no other means to cover these costs, you may qualify for early access to superannuation.

It is important to note that the criteria to access your super early under severe financial hardship are strict. The decision to release funds is at the discretion of your super fund, based on the evidence you provide and your unique circumstances.

Compassionate Grounds Explained

It's also possible to gain early access to your superannuation funds on compassionate grounds for specific reasons. These include medical treatment, palliative care costs, home modifications for installation of disability features, and funeral expenses - All of these be unpaid to claim serious financial hardship.

In this situation, the Australian Tax Office (ATO) evaluates applications for early release of money from a person's Super account. The ATO will look at how much of the fund can be taken out according to the that have been identified by the applicant and how they are experiencing difficulties with these bills.

It should also be noted that accessing your super early may also affect insurance coverage, so it's essential that you carry out the required research yourself or have a trusted service help to understand all the aspects of how this option will affect your individual circumstances.

Legal "Loopholes" for Early Super Access

As mentioned above, individuals in a dire financial predicament, have been diagnosed with a terminal medical condition, or qualify for assistance on compassionate grounds can submit an application request to access their super early. Legally speaking, there is no need to look for loopholes or attempt to circumvent the legislation in any way as it is not only very risky, but you could face some severe penalties.

While daunting, the application process has plenty of ways that you can take advantage of the regulations set up by the government specifically to assist individuals in need while ensuring you preserve the integrity of your superannuation fund.

Having a solid working knowledge of the application process and how you can make use of the regulations for specific claims related to getting help to pay for an addiction treatment program can be hugely beneficial for people who are facing serious hardship at the same time as dealing with what is often an already complex and worrying situation.

Accessing Your Super Early For Addiction Treatment in Thailand

For people actively battling any kind of addiction, early release of their superannuation on compassionate grounds can provide the financial means to receive the level of care at a private rehab treatment center.

This form of assistance gives an alternative route for individuals or their dependents who would otherwise be unable to afford it.

Funding Your Alcohol Recovery Journey at Miracles Asia

You don't need to let financial constraints deter you from pursuing your journey toward freedom from alcohol addiction. As mentioned above, the ATO allows you to access your superannuation funds early on compassionate grounds to fund your treatment at Miracles Asia.

Our comprehensive alcohol rehab program in Thailand is designed solely to combat addiction, using a multifaceted approach encompassing medical support, therapeutic sessions, mindfulness activities, and personalized aftercare planning.

In assessing your application, the ATO will consider factors like financial hardship and the critical need for treatment to improve your health & overall well-being. They will release an amount that aligns with the necessary expenses of your treatment, provided that you can furnish relevant proof.

Our admissions team will work closely with releasemysuper.com.au to approve your application. The released funds can be channeled towards the cost of your bespoke addiction recovery program at Miracles Asia, setting you on the path to reclaim control over your life.

How to Pay For Your Drug Addiction Treatment

Drug addiction is a formidable opponent, but with the proper rehab program and ongoing support, you can overcome it. Accessing your superannuation funds early on compassionate grounds can finance your battle against addiction at Miracles Asia where our residential facility caters to individuals grappling with all types of drug dependencies, including:

• Cocaine Addiction Treatment
• Meth Addiction Treatment
• Marijuana Addiction Treatment
• Opioid Addiction Treatment
• And More...

The ATO provides early release of funds, especially for those who find themselves financially strapped yet in dire need of enrolling in a private rehab program. At Miracles Asia, we have a proven track record of helping our clients not just overcome their dependencies but also being able to enjoy sustained recovery and remain in touch with a strong support network that's completely free for life to all our clients.

Early Super Access For PTSD Treatment & Trauma Treatment

The path to recovering from PTSD and trauma can be difficult, but your superannuation funds can help you make the first move. As with the abovementioned addiction treatment, by leveraging early access to your super through compassionate grounds stipulated by the ATO, you can take a proactive step toward getting the help you need.

Relieve yourself from the financial stress and focus on what truly matters: Your health and long term recovery journey.

At Miracles Asia, we specialize in treating Dual Diagnosis and we have also helped veterans overcome their addiction and PTSD through our highly specialized program that fosters resilience and empowerment, enabling all these clients to regain control of their lives.

Navigating the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

To access super early, the ATO has laid out strict eligibility criteria, and getting approval for an advance release on compassionate grounds or due to financial hardship can be challenging.

By connecting with the Miracles Asia team and our partners, many clients have found the process to be much less stressful, and given that dealing with addiction can elevate situations dramatically, we strongly recommend you consider them if you're planning to access your super early for addiction treatment.

Alternatives to Early Super Access

When it comes to accessing your super fund, early access should always be the last resort. As we have outlined, it provides an invaluable resource for covering things like your rehab in Thailand. Still, you must evaluate all other options before tapping into these long-term savings.

• Borrowing from Family or Friends
  This option may not be suitable for everyone suffering from long-term addiction. Still, you may find that loved ones are willing to lend you some or all money needed for treatment, often with less stringent repayment terms than a bank.
• Nonprofit Organizations
  Several nonprofit organizations in Australia offer financial aid for people seeking addiction treatment. These grants do not need to be repaid, which often makes the application process very competitive and requires comprehensive information.
• Employer Assistance
  Some employers do offer programs to help their employees pay for addiction treatment. It's worth discussing this confidentially with your Human Resources department to explore any options that might be available to you.
• Selling Assets
  If you have valuable assets you're willing to part with, selling these can generate funds to cover the cost of some or all your treatment. Items like a car, jewelry, or even property can always be repurchased when your physical and mental health is back on track.

Important: We strongly recommended that you consider all the pros and cons associated with getting hold of your superannuation funds early because doing so might have significant implications on your future financial stability when approaching retirement age.

How Miracles Asia Can Help

Navigating the labyrinth of early superannuation access can seem daunting, especially when dealing with the tremendous strain of addiction or trauma. However, you are not alone in this journey. Miracles Asia is ready to provide the necessary support to overcome these hurdles and start the path toward healing and long-term recovery.

Our strong alliance with our superannuation partners allows Miracles Asia to assist Australians through the intricacies of accessing super funds early that can unlock the financing needed to cover the total cost of your addiction treatment.

Beyond this, the results-driven approach to treatment is designed to address the root causes of your addiction, PTSD, or trauma, ensuring a comprehensive healing process. Our dedicated team of Western professionals combines an array of effective therapy modalities that provides all clients with a personalized treatment plan catering to their individual and unique needs.

Miracles Asia offers more than just a rehabilitation program; we provide a nurturing environment, a community that understands and supports you, and, most importantly, the tools for sustainable recovery. We are committed to helping you rebuild your life, free from addiction and trauma.

Moreover, our commitment to your recovery goes beyond the initial treatment phase. We provide an unparalleled aftercare program, fostering a lifetime of recovery and offering you a strong support network at no additional cost.

Remember, there's no shame in asking for help – including financial support. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can assist in your journey toward recovery. Together, we can make miracles happen.

The post Unlocking the Loopholes to Access Your Superannuation Early For Addiction Treatment first appeared on Miracles Asia.

I served on active duty for several enlistments with the 3rd Infantry and 82nd Airborne Divisions, as well as a platoon sergeant in the 4/160 Infantry California National Guard, where I graduated from many schools, including Airborne, Jumpmaster, Jungle Warfare, and Ranger Schools.

During my service, I amassed a distinguished record and am a highly decorated soldier.

After being discharged, I studied at San Diego State University, where I was awarded a merit scholarship at Oxford University, England.

How Everything Changed

From the outside, I was on my way to a successful life. I was married to a wonderful woman, and I had a Sales Executive position with a Fortune 10 company in New York City. Still, despite the appearance of that success, I was suffering greatly from PTSD, alcoholism, and drug addiction.

At the time, it felt impossible to ask for help.

As the cracks started to show, my wife left me, my career ended, and the respect of my family and friends was gone, but through all of this loss, I continued the horrible cycle of drinking and drugging every single day.

When I finally realized there was something wrong, I tried everything imaginable, including taking different prescription medications, moving to new cities, changing my career goals, admitting myself to various hospitals, talking to priests, visiting temples & ashrams as well as practicing Yoga, adjusting my diet, reading all kinds of self-help books, and even being voluntarily institutionalized multiple times, the list goes on.

My alcoholism and drug addiction nearly killed me; I experienced very clear suicidal ideation on a daily basis and felt no hope of finding joy in any area of my life.

During one of my hospital visits, I found myself in the Intensive Care Unit talking with a member of the VFW support network who was the 1st person to introduce me to Miracles Asia.

At the time, it felt like a mistake when they explained I qualified to receive in-patient care for substance use disorders related to PTSD, for which I have a service-connected disability rating.

"Within a few days, I was on a plane, flying to Thailand for my 90-day program at Miracles Asia, and those three months saved my life. There is no other way to say it."

During my stay, I received holistic, professional care from experts in treating addiction and underlying mental health disorders like PTSD.

I learned invaluable information and skills that have become built-in habits, which I've been able to take home to America. These are all practical, realistic things I use daily to keep me mentally, physically, and spiritually fit.

On the surface, it's known as a treatment center for alcohol and drug addiction, but Miracles Asia offers so much more.

Daily Classes & Activities

On a typical day, I started at sunrise with either Yoga or a walk in the surrounding jungle. There is a small exercise room with equipment to do cardio or weights if you prefer.

After a shower and shave, the staff and clients sit together for a buffet breakfast prepared by the in-house chef, who provides an incredible selection of meals throughout the day and can accommodate any dietary needs.

After breakfast, we would move to a lounge area and sit in a small group of other people in treatment to do a daily check-in and discuss our issues with alcoholism and addiction. Graduates of the Miracles Asia program from around the world joined these check-ins through Zoom to share their experiences.

It was during these morning groups, I quickly learned how it is possible for people with addiction to graduate from the program and enjoy living healthy, productive lives.

Throughout my 90-day stay at Miracles Asia, I made several close friends who are now back in their home countries, living addiction-free lives. I still keep in regular contact with all of them.

Each day is structured slightly differently, but they are all filled with classes that range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Step Meetings, Relapse Prevention, Psychoeducation, Self-Awareness, Mindfulness, Meditation, and Art Therapy.

Twice a week, I had two 1 hour sessions with a Western Therapist with extensive qualifications, including a Ph.D. and experience working with Veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). My sessions with him was structured to focus on specific areas related to my own experiences with alcohol and drug addiction, as well as my underlying PTSD.

Sports & Exercise

We traveled as a group three days a week to a nearby Sports and Wellness Resort called Thanyapura. This massive facility accommodates everyone from locals to Olympic teams doing their training sessions. Exercising at their gym, relaxing in the saunas, swimming in the pools, playing tennis games, enjoying a massage, and even getting some physiotherapy were all activities that I enjoyed doing regularly. Extra services like personal fitness coaches and classes were also available if one desired.

Once a week, we had the opportunity to attend off-site 12-step recovery meetings on one of Phuket's best beaches. These meetings were casual and laid back with people from all backgrounds who are now living in Thailand - it was a pretty cool feeling to be sipping on a coconut and enjoying some Thai food at the beach while listening to people with years of recovery share their experiences, strength, and hope.

Exploring Thailand

The Sunday excursions were epic, and after an intensive week in the treatment center, it was great to get a taste of Thai culture with my new friends.

Whether it was on a boat trip to some islands with snorkeling and bike rides, visiting a local elephant sanctuary, or river rafting, these outings will be something I always remember. If you are considering going to Miracles, ask to see the library of photos from their many excursions to understand better how much fun can be had during the recovery experience. Words alone cannot describe how this helped me to understand it is possible to get through basic weekend activities without even thinking of needing a drink.

I learned a lot about myself and the disease of addiction while at Miracles Asia and made what I feel are going to be lifelong friendships during my stay. On top of this, I am now part of a fantastic family of people from all walks of life who are living healthy, happy lives in every corner of the world.

Wrapping Up

The most important things I received during stay at Miracles Asia are skills that I will always carry with me, and that's the ability to live my life one day at a time, free from the bondage of active alcoholism and addiction.

The peace and serenity I feel, along with the physical differences I now experience in recovery, are absolutely priceless.

My contact information is with Miracles Asia. I would be more than grateful to connect with you regarding how to engage with the VSW and Miracles Asia for proper treatment if you or a loved one needs help with addiction to drugs & alcohol or PTSD. I encourage any Veteran who is serious about recovery and wants the opportunity to live a life free from addiction to visit Miracles Asia and get the treatment you deserve.

The post Help For Veterans Struggling With PTSD & Addiction first appeared on Miracles Asia.

Unfortunately, many people with alcohol intolerance don’t know they have it until they have a reaction. And, since reactions can vary from person to person, it can be hard to diagnose.

Alcohol intolerance can be particularly problematic if you have developed a dependence on, or have be diagnosed with an addiction to alcohol, as repeated exposure to alcohol can make the symptoms more dangerous.

In this article, we will explore what alcohol intolerance is, its symptoms, and how to get help if you think you may have it but are finding it difficult to stop consuming alcohol or might be unsure about what is the first step toward getting treatment for alcohol addiction.

What Is Alcohol Intolerance?

Alcohol intolerance is a condition in which a person has difficulty digesting alcohol. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Alcohol intolerance is different from alcohol dependence or addiction, and it is also different from having an allergy to alcohol.

Those who do suffer from alcohol dependence or addiction, however, may be affected to a much greater extent than those who do not.

The Different Types of Alcohol Intolerance

There are different types of alcohol intolerance, and each type has its own set of symptoms. The most common type of alcohol intolerance is called histamine intolerance. This type of alcohol intolerance is caused by an accumulation of histamines in the body.

Histamines are chemicals that are released by the body in response to an allergen. When there is an accumulation of histamines in the body, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Skin flushing
• Hives
• Itchy eyes
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Headache
• Dizziness

Another less common type of alcohol intolerance is called sulfite sensitivity. This type of alcohol intolerance is caused by a sensitivity to sulfites, which are added to some alcoholic beverages as a preservative. Sulfites can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Coughing
• Throat irritation

Causes of Alcohol Intolerance

There are many potential causes of alcohol intolerance. One common cause is an allergy to yeast.

This can cause a histamine reaction after eating bread or drinking beer or wine. Other potential allergies that can make alcohol intolerance worse include reactions to preservatives, such as sulfites, found in some alcoholic beverages.

Some people may also be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol because of their genetic makeup. People of Asian descent, for example, tend to have a higher rate of alcohol intolerance than other groups. If both parents are intolerant to alcohol, there is a greater chance that their children will be as well. Additionally, alcohol intolerance may develop over time due to repeated exposure to alcohol.

Among all causes, intolerance is most commonly due to a lack of the enzyme needed to break down alcohol. This is called Alcohol Dehydrogenase Deficiency (ADH). People with ADH can't process alcohol properly, and it builds up in their system, leading to symptoms like flushing, nausea, and headache.

In other cases, alcohol intolerance may be the result of a medical condition. For example, certain medications can cause people to be more sensitive to the effects of drinking, which might not be identified until you visit an alcohol rehab center or get professional help. Conditions that affect the digestive system, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, can make it difficult for the body to process alcohol properly.

Whatever the cause, alcohol intolerance can be a very unpleasant experience. Symptoms can range from mild (such as skin flushing) to severe (such as difficulty breathing). If you think you may be intolerant to alcohol, it's important to see your doctor to get a diagnosis and find out what treatment options are available.

Alcohol Intolerance Symptoms

There are many symptoms of alcohol intolerance, and they can vary from person to person. The most common symptom is a flushed face after drinking alcohol. Other symptoms can include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath

If you experience any of these symptoms after drinking alcohol, it's important to see your doctor to rule out other potential causes, such as allergies, which could lead to a severe allergic reaction.

Diagnosing Alcohol Intolerance

There are several ways to diagnose alcohol intolerance. The most common method is to take a comprehensive medical history and perform a physical exam. Your doctor may also recommend blood tests to rule out other conditions.

If you have symptoms that suggest alcohol intolerance, your doctor will likely ask about your family history, as alcohol intolerance can be passed down from generation to generation.

Your doctor may also want to know what kinds of foods you eat and how often you drink alcohol. He or she may ask you to keep a food diary for a week or two. This will help your doctor identify any patterns between your symptoms and what you're eating or drinking.

Once your doctor has all of the information, he or she will be able to make a diagnosis. If you have alcohol intolerance, there are several treatment options available.

Treating Alcohol Intolerance

There are a few things you can do to treat alcohol intolerance.

First, you could try taking an over-the-counter medication like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or fexofenadine (Allegra). These will help to lessen the symptoms of histamine intolerance.

Second, you can avoid alcohol altogether. This may not be ideal for everyone, but it is the best way to prevent any reactions from occurring.

Third, you can try a low-histamine diet. This involves avoiding foods that are high in histamines and eating foods that help to promote gut health. Some good gut-friendly foods include sauerkraut, kimchi, bone broth, and Probiotics.

Fourth, you can take supplements to help reduce the symptoms of histamine intolerance. Vitamins C and B6 are known to help with this condition. You can also try taking a Quercetin supplement which is known to have antihistamine properties.

If you suffer from alcohol intolerance but are finding it difficult to stop drinking alcohol, you may have an alcohol addiction. If you do, it’s important to reach out for help to recover from it sooner rather than later. The negative effects of alcohol abuse can be much greater for those who are intolerant to alcohol.

Does Alcohol Intolerance Get Worse Over Time?

Yes, alcohol intolerance can get worse over time. If you have alcohol intolerance, you may find that your symptoms get worse the more alcohol you drink. You may also find that your tolerance for alcohol decreases over time. This means that you may need to drink less and less alcohol to experience the same symptoms.

Is There a Cure for Alcohol Intolerance?

There is currently no known cure for alcohol intolerance. However, there are ways to manage the condition to make it more tolerable. There are also medications that can help to reduce the symptoms of alcohol intolerance. Some people may find that they can eventually tolerate small amounts of alcohol without any problems. However, others may find that they need to avoid alcohol altogether.

Conclusion

Alcohol intolerance is a condition that occurs when your body cannot properly process alcohol. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin flushing, headache, nausea, and vomiting. If you think you may be intolerant to alcohol, it's important to talk to your doctor so that they can help you identify the best course of treatment. There are many ways to manage alcohol intolerance, but the most effective is to stop consuming alcohol.

If you’re finding it difficult to stop consuming alcohol, it’s important to reach out for help. Counseling or an inpatient or outpatient rehab program is key to the recovery of many who abuse alcohol.

Miracles Asia runs a state-of-the-art rehab facility on the island of Phuket, Thailand. If you would like to find out more about how we could help you break free from an addiction to alcohol, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

The post What Is Alcohol Intolerance? first appeared on Miracles Asia.