Sexual Abuse Recovery—Unique Approach
By Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD

Have you been in therapy for three or more years for sexual abuse recovery and still have many of the same issues plaguing you? If so, you might want to consider a different approach to the healing process.

Sexual Abuse, rape and incest recovery is much easier with Hypnotherapy. Hypnotherapy is highly effective to heal the negative effects of sexual abuse, rape and incest.

Using a seven-phase program in conjunction with hypnotherapy to heal the emotional wounds by moving through the pain toward freedom and triumph over trauma, you will discover you can live the life you deserve. In this seven-phase program you and Dr. Neddermeyer become partners on your path to healing and creating healthy sexuality and the complete celebration of the joy of living pain free.

Healing from Sexual Abuse—Is the time right for you to finally heal sexual abuse in your life and create the life you deserve? Of course it is time! And now that you have made that decision, the rest is easier than you think - especially with the power and effectiveness of Hypnotherapy. The time is certainly right for you to heal from sexual abuse, rape, incest, or in fact any other form of mental or physical abuse. The light at the end of the tunnel is a reflection of who you really are—you are NOT the abuse! You are YOU—a unique and wondrous person. You will learn how to alter your thoughts, words and actions and triumphantly begin living a life of freedom from sexual, emotional or physical abuse.

Sexual Abuse - Victim or Survivor? You are not a victim—your abuser didn’t destroy you—you are only wounded—NOT dead. You are a Survivor—albeit—in a lot of emotional pain. Through the healing process you can transition from being a Survivor to being a Thriver.

You can be the master of your own life! The only control your abuser now has over you is a carry-over from what your perpetrator forced upon you in the past. You can stop that control. Now by your own choice you are your own master!

Sexual abuse affects your life until you complete a healing process specifically for sexual abuse recovery. Although anyone can have the following issues, they are especially prevalent among survivors of sexual and physical abuse. Sexual Abuse After Effects include, but are not limited to:

• Anxiety. Do you often worry, unable to sit still or constantly on the go?
• Panic Attack--heart palpitations, shortness of breath
• Relationship Problems. Are your relationships with family, friends, and significant others full of stress, inability to truly communicate?
• Nightmares/flashbacks
• Insomnia. Trouble relaxing and sleeping.
• Addictions. Do you attempt to fill the void with food, drugs, alcohol, work, or sex?
• Extreme Emotions. Do your emotions often seem out of control?
• Depression. Do you feel that life will never be better and that as long as you are alive you will be in pain?
• Hyper-vigilant. Do you feel like you must be constantly on guard?
• Inability to trust or trusting indiscriminately.
• Physical Issues. Are you plagued by--headaches/migraines, stomach problems, MS, PMS, TMJ, Cancer, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, Restless Leg Syndrome, Lupus, Lower Back Pain?
• Angry Outbursts/Road Rage. Does your anger interfere with your life?
• Shame/Guilt/Humiliation. Do you believe you are at fault—If you had only....thus you experience the ensuing shame, guilt and humiliation?

In an effort to prevent child sexual abuse, Dr. Neddermeyer also treats abusers. Child molesters, pedophiles and sex offenders have responded successfully to therapeutic hypnosis. A pioneer in this field, she is dedicated to bringing this treatment program into the mainstream. Dr. Neddermeyer recently presented this unique recovery process to professionals in New Dehli, India at the 2nd World Regression Congress. She presented the program in the Netherlands in 2003 at the 1st World Regression Congress.

Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, author, "If I'd Only Known...Sexual Abuse in or Out of the Family: A Guide to Prevention, specializes in: Mind, Body, Spirit healing and Physical/Sexual Abuse Prevention and Recovery. Dr. Neddermeyer empowers people to view life's challenges as an opportunity for Personal/Professional Growth and Spiritual Awakening. http://www.drdorothy.net

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Quit Smoking Tips
By Richard Romando

Nicotine addiction is a health hazard that affects millions of people around the world each year. Smoking cigarettes might have several purposes, but the end result usually terminates in breathing disorders, heart ailments, cancer, and in acute cases, even death. While some realize the harm of smoking early on, others carry on with the addiction till a stage of no return; when smoking related ailments are beyond cure.

Several people try to quit smoking, but most fail. The reason for this is not hard to find. Nicotine addiction affects a person dramatically. Those who try to quit smoking experience withdrawal symptoms and hence tend to revert back to the life-threatening activity. To quit smoking, one requires extreme levels of self-control. If one puts his heart and soul into it, this seemingly impossible feat can be made possible.

There are several tips, which if followed, that might help a person overcome the nicotine addiction. The first aspect one should realize is to set realistic targets for oneself. Set one goal at a time and work towards achieving that objective.

A date should be fixed for quitting and adhered to. It helps to have someone quit with you, as it provides a moral support and also sets a positive example. Keeping oneself busy is also a good deterrent. If the mind is focused on a particular activity, then the chances of weakening and having a cigarette are greatly reduced. When the urge to smoke does arise, one must try and postpone the event by at least an hour. Easy access to nicotine should be avoided. One should try leaving cigarettes at home and not carring them to work or when leaving the house.

Chewing on gum, avoiding alcohol and coffee will help one on the road towards quitting. Although several methods and therapies can be employed, the only conclusive solution is to have a firm will. This will enable one to brush off this grave addiction.

Quit Smoking provides detailed information on Quit Smoking, How To Quit Smoking, Ways To Quit Smoking, Quit Smoking Tips and more. Quit Smoking is affiliated with Stop Smoking Help.

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Addiction Treatment: Prescription Medication Abuse by Parents and Their Children
By Jonathan Huttner

Although drugs such as heroin, cocaine, crack or ecstasy seem to get all the attention, the rate of prescription drug abuse among teens has grown at a higher rate than illegal drugs.

In 2003, 2.3 million kids between the ages of 12 and 17 admitted to abusing prescription medication according to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse. It is reported that 83.4 percent abused opiates such as Oxycontin, Vicodin, Dilaudid, 24.6 percent tranquilizers such as Valium, Xanax, 5.6 percent sedatives such as Seconal and 25.1 percent stimulants such as Adderall or Ritalin.

An additional statistic reported is that teens who abuse prescription medication are twice as likely to abuse alcohol, five times more likely to abuse marijuana, 12 times more likely to abuse heroin and 15 times more likely to abuse ecstasy.

With all of these statistics comes an awakening of sorts, as it is relatively simple for children of all ages to gain access to prescription medication. Medicine cabinets or dresser drawers where parents generally store their medications are easily accessed. Prescription medications are also readily available on the internet. In 2004, CASA found hundreds of web sites selling prescription medication and only 6 percent of them even required a prescription. In 2005 opiates were being made available on a higher percentage of sites than 2004 and 95 percent of the sites that sell steroids, did so without a prescription.

When it is all said and done, parents need to pay close attention to how much access their children have to their prescription medication and to what internet sites their children are visiting. While you can’t monitor every move your children make, learning how to effectively communicate to them about such topics can make a profound difference.

If you have any questions concerning prescription medication contact an addiction specialist. If you know of anyone who needs immediate intervention, learn more about addiction treatment options or get a drug rehab referral from a reliable source.

Jonathan Huttner is one of the the principals at Lakeview Health Systems, an addiction treatment, alcohol and drug rehab facility. Addiction treatment information and free live help 24/7 is being provided online at http://www.RecoveryConnection.org

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Obesity In Children
By Zach Thompson

Obesity is a condition that can shorten your life and can seriously affect you mentally and physically. It often has its roots in childhood. Obesity in children is growing at a frighteningly fast rate. There are more obese children now than ever before. Parents are letting their carelessness with their own diets spill over into their children’s lives.

Here are a few points to think about when trying to prevent obesity and health problems for your children.

Small children are normally energetic and often require snacks in-between meals. It is most important to choose healthy snacks for your children.

Alternative snacks can include:

Vegetable snacks like carrot sticks and celery boats are a good and fun alternative to chips and “junk food” snacks.
Fruit can be substituted for candies and sugar snacks.
Soda and sugar snacks like candy produce hyperactivity in many young children and will sow the seeds for problems later in life. It also leads to dental problems and the beginnings of obesity. It is good to keep these foods in check and use alternatives if possible. Sugar is a known addictive food in that the more you eat the more you want to eat. This can quickly escalate into a serious eating problem and can lead to obesity as the body stores excess sugar as fat.

Breakfast cereals are perhaps the biggest problems in children’s diets. Everyone is in a hurry in the morning and it is easy to reach for the cereal packet for a quick family breakfast. However be careful of these presweetened cereals as they give unnecessary large amounts of sugar to your child’s system laying the grounds for sugar addiction. Now there are many alternatives to presweetened cereals. There are many good tasting “healthy” cereals providing added fiber and less if any sugar. These are good for your children as they will provide them with a much more nutritious breakfast and not just fill them up with sugar and excess carbohydrates.

Fast food habits also begin when children are quite small. This is reinforced by extensive TV advertising and propaganda for these foods. It is almost inbred in us to eat hamburgers chips and other fast food. Children have an inborn liking for these foods and can easily become quite addicted to them. It is wise to try to keep these foods in limit, as they are not the healthiest foods to eat, especially for children who are growing and need nutritious foods to develop properly.

Good eating habits begin when children are very young. It can start from the time they first start to eat. It is very important to a child’s health to start good eating habits at a young age. It is possible to lay the foundations of good and healthy eating habits when children are still quite small. It is just a question of educating ourselves and passing on good habits to our children. When you do this you reduce the possibility of obesity in your children and all the mental and physical risks involved.

Zach Thompson is a Glyconutrients Consultant. His clients range from pro athletes and actresses, to cancer patients and children with Learning Disabilities. Learn the truth about nutritional supplements at: http://nutritionalreview.com/79.php.

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Detox: Science, Quackery and Everything In-Between!
By Stephenn Nelson

This article is meant to outline and educate you on the different types of detoxification. Detox can refer to several different processes including diets to lose weight, drug and alcohol addiction, and the process of eliminating the harmful buildup of assorted toxins in the body. Hopefully you will find some useful information that will guide you in your quest for the right Detox.

When you are on a so-called Detox diet you are trying to achieve several things including improving health, mental state, energy, resistance to disease, digestion, as well as aiding in weight loss. This type of diet consists of changing your consumption habits in an attempt to detoxify the body by removing toxins or other contaminants. Some proponents of detox diets would insist it is a lifestyle, not just a diet.

Detox Diets range widely in variation depending upon the desired effect:

Food combining.

Increased consumption of fish such as salmon

Fasting, water fasting and juice fasting.

Caloric restriction.

Herbal detox.

The word “Detox” also refers to the process of purging the body of toxins accumulated by drug use. It all begins with ceasing use of the drug or what is more commonly known as “withdrawal”. The dictionary’s relevant definition is: “the discontinuance of administration or use of a drug” or “the syndrome of often painful physical and psychological symptoms that follows discontinuance of an addicting drug”. It is definitely a difficult process but imperative if someone want to successfully detox his or her body. The main purpose of detoxification is to diminish the uncomfortable symptoms of drug withdrawal.

There are many different forms of Drug Detox depending on where you decide to receive treatment. The best facilities will not just use treatment to relieve the physical symptoms of withdrawal; but will include counseling and therapy sessions during the process to aid recovery from the psychological distress.

While this brief article can’t answer all your questions, at least you are more informed about the different kinds of Detox. I have listed several good resources at the end of this paragraph. You can also find a lot more on the subject at www.detoxdetails.com/.

You can find more information on the subject of Detox in these quality books:

The Detox Book: How to Detoxify Your Body to Improve Your Health, Stop Disease, and Reverse Aging, 2nd Edition -- by Bruce Fife

The Fast Track One-Day Detox Diet: Boost metabolism, get rid of fattening toxins, safely lose up to 8 pounds overnight and keep them off for good -- by Ann Louise Phd Cns Gittleman

Chapman Medical offering rapid drug-detox treatment : An article from: Orange County Business Journal -- by Chris Baiocchi

Prescription Drug Addiction: The Hidden Epidemic -- by Rod Colvin

Stephen Nelson is a freelance author that writes for the medical community. You can find out more at http://www.detoxdetails.com/

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Christian Drug Rehab
By Ken Marlborough

Faith based drug rehab is one approach to drug rehab that is slightly different from secular drug rehabilitation. The Christian religion based programs have at their core the belief that religion plays a critical role in the rehabilitation process. Therefore, all programs are designed to emphasize the primary role of religion in the life of the addicted individual.

The study of scripture, religious services, and group discussions may all play a part of Christian drug rehab. As with other programs that are specialized funding and sustenance may depend on client payments and grants. Other aspects of rehab such as medical and psychiatric evaluations as well as duration of therapy may be similar to secular rehab programs. Often the treatment is done in an inpatient setting and may last one month. Drug addictions as well as alcohol abuse are huge problems for society and their treatment requires committed individuals. Christian drug rehab has at its root the belief that faith heals and these programs are spearheaded by volunteers and altruistic individuals.

One program’s website states that they believe that God provides wholesome healing and overcomes the destructive power of drug addiction. These programs recognize Jesus Christ as the Higher Power referred to in 12 step programs. Christian drug rehab aims to rehabilitate the individual in a comprehensive manner by changing their view of the world and stressing the primacy of faith in the healing process. The philosophical basis of Christian drug rehab programs may not be well known to healthcare providers. It includes the concept that addiction arises from an attempt to fill a spiritual void through substance use and recovery through the process of salvation and a sustained relationship with God.

Christian drug rehab may be a model other religious or faith based organizations can use to develop drug rehabilitation programs.

Drug Rehab provides detailed information on Drug Rehab, Drug Rehab Programs, Drug Rehab Centers, Drug And Alcohol Rehab and more. Drug Rehab is affiliated with Drug Detox Rehab.

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Prescription Drug Addiction: An Overview
By Damian Sofsian

It seems that prescription drugs are being prescribed more than ever. Doctors prescribe drugs for pain, for mental health, and for insomnia. The majority of the people who are prescribed these drugs use them responsibly, taking the correct dose just until the problem is gone. However, there is a growing trend for people to misuse prescription drugs. Many people use prescription drugs to get high or to feel good. What they often don’t know is that many of these drugs are highly addictive, and can have dire consequences if used improperly.

The three most commonly misused types of prescription drugs are opioids, central nervous system (CNS) depressants, and stimulants.

Opioids are usually prescribed for pain relief. Some well-known opioids are codeine, morphine, and pills such as OxyContin, Vicodin, and Darvon. Opioids are the most commonly misused of all prescription drugs, and are among the most dangerous.

CNS depressants are used to slow down brain functions. They are frequently prescribed to relieve anxiety, stop panic attacks, and cure insomnia. Some of the most common CNS depressants are Xanax, Valium, and Nembutal. Many users enjoy the calming effect these drugs have and continue using them when they are no longer needed. Misuse of CNS depressants can lead to addiction and other serious long-term problems.

Stimulants are another commonly abused class of prescription drug. Stimulants speed up brain functions and are commonly prescribed for people with ADHD. Some well-known stimulants are Ritalin and Dexedrine. Although stimulants are less addictive than some other types of prescription drugs, they are still addictive and can lead to serious health problems when abused.

Prescription drug abuse is becoming a large problem. Even as many celebrities’ battles with prescription drug addiction have been in the news, many people continue to believe that these drugs are harmless.

Prescription Drugs Addiction Info provides detailed information about prescription drug addition symptoms, treatment, statistics, and forums, as well as personal prescription drug addiction stories. Prescription Drugs Addiction Info is the sister site of Drug Testing Web.

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Prescription Drug Rehab
By Jason Gluckman

Prescription Drug abuse can be defined as compulsive use of mood-altering Prescription Drugs that have not been authorized by a medical practitioner. These drugs that are easily available through doctor’s prescriptions are abused by any people who grow addicted to them after the disease has been cured.

The symptoms of addiction are a constant physical craving for the medicines and withdrawal symptoms when not in use. In such a condition, the person uses all means, legal or illegal, to obtain these drugs. This addiction, which afflicts millions of Americans, is as serious as illegal drug and alcohol addiction. It should be treated carefully under medical supervision by medics or Rehab centers.

To free yourself from Prescription Drug addiction, you need treatment, counseling and Rehabilitation. The patients must be referred to Rehabs that treat drug, alcohol and substance abuse, where they will receive a thorough treatment and counseling therapy to make an effective recovery.

Prescription Drugs are as potent as street drugs. They start out as prescriptions for genuine pain or sleep complaints, but later become addictive. There are three main classes of Prescription Drugs that can be abused: Opioids (used for pain treatment), CNS depressants (used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders) and Stimulants (used for sleep disorders, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorders).

Opioids are narcotics and commonly prescribed pain relievers such as Morphine and Codeine, used for symptoms from surgery pains to cough disorders. The drug attaches itself to opioid receptors and stops pain messages to the brain. Addiction is common after a stipulated dosage and results in legal and illegal activities to procure this drug.

CNS, or central nervous system depressants, are used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. They are used to slow down brain activity. CNS medicines include Barbiturates (Mebaral) and Benzodiazepines (Valium and Pro Som). Continued use of these drugs can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when usage is stopped. Since CNS depressants work by slowing brain activity, stopping them will lead to the brain’s racing out of control, or even seizures. Using these drugs with alcohol can lead to death.

Stimulants enhance brain activity. Stimulants such as Ritalin or Dexedrine increase the amount of stimulating chemicals like dopamine in the brain. Short-term abuse can lead to paranoia. It may also cause high body temperature and irregular heart beat. This may lead to a fatal cardiovascular failure or seizure.

Research reveals that Prescription Drug abuse is most common among the elderly, adolescents, women and health care professionals. The misuse of Prescription Drugs is the most common form of drug abuse among the elderly. Adolescent use of drugs like Ritalin has increased in recent years. Studies also show that women are more likely than men to get prescriptions for drugs that can be abused, like narcotics and anti-depressants. They are also more likely to get addicted than men.

Rehab for Prescription Drug abuse consists of two methods--behavioral and pharmacological treatment. Behavioral treatment teaches the patient how to cope without the drug, how to handle cravings, how to avoid situations that encourage drug use, and how to prevent and handle relapse. It consists of counseling, group therapy, family therapy and occupational therapy intended to totally Rehabilitate the patient.

Pharmacological Rehab includes use of medications such as Methadone and LAAM, which is especially useful for treating Opioid addiction. This can be administered at the stage of detoxification. Detoxification relieves withdrawal symptoms while the patient learns to be drug-free. This may be followed by behavioral therapy, where the patient learns to alter his thinking and handle stress factors that led to the addiction.

The ultimate aim is to lead the patient away from harmful addiction to Prescription Drugs and regain a normal and healthy life without suffering any relapse.

Rehab provides detailed information about rehab, alcohol rehab, cardiac rehab, drug rehab and more. Rehab is the sister site of Medical Alert Bracelets.

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Alcohol and Drug Rehab: Binge Drinking and Alcohol Poisoning
By Jonathan Huttner

Binge drinking, which at least 44% of the college population has taken part in between the years of 1994-2004 takes the lives of about 50 college students every year. In excess of 1400 college students die each year from alcohol related injuries. Binge drinking is defined, by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, as five or more drinks in a row for men and four or more alcohol drinks for women.

Alcohol poisoning generally occurs when a person consumes a large quantity of alcohol over a short period of time. Alcohol is a central nervous system
depressant, which can definitely be lethal and is capable of producing various physical, emotional and behavioral effects as it acts upon different parts
of the brain.

At a low level of alcohol consumption, inhibitions are reduced with vision, movement and speech impaired. With a greater amount of
alcohol coordination, reflexes and balance is affected and after that the consumption of more alcohol affects a person’s brain to the point where it’s
ability to control respiration and heart rate is impaired. Lastly, a person’s heart rate can drop extremely low and breathing can cease resulting in
coma or death.

To better understand alcohol poisoning, the body generally oxidizes about one ounce of alcohol (one drink) per hour.
Depending how much one drinks, what they have in their stomach and how quickly they drink, it may take 45-90 minutes after a person stops
drinking for them to reach their highest level of intoxication. This is why the person who has been abusing alcohol and has passed out must
be watched very closely.

Some of the symptoms of alcohol poisoning are unconsciousness, vomiting (often without awakening), shallow
breathing and clammy, pale skin. If you suspect alcohol poisoning, call 911 immediately. If you suspect the person may have a problem with
alcohol or is alcoholic, do your best to get them into an alcoholism
treatment center or drug rehab for a thorough evaluation. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Jonathan Huttner is one of the the principals at Lakeview Health Systems,
an addiction treatment, alcohol and drug rehab facility.

Addiction treatment information and free live help 24/7
is being provided online at RecoveryConnection.org

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Teens and Drugs -- 7 Must Ask Questions
By Ali Bierman

The following questions may save the life of your teenager. These seven critical questions will get him talking about his experience and knowledge of drugs. I suggest you have the resources in place to provide the solutions and answers you may need.

*To start, simply ask your child, “Do you know that most people get high on drugs to escape feeling bad? Sometimes they feel really great for a while. Then they come down and the same problems are still there, only now some of those people, even after just one experience, have new problems caused by that one-time drug use.”
You will certainly grab his attention.

*Continue, “What kind of questions do you have, or what do you want to know more about, regarding drugs?”
The object here is to get your child talking—or at least willing to talk. He may tell you he knows everything he needs to know. Where do you go from there?

* Be blunt! Come right out and ask, ”Are you now using, or have you ever used, drugs?”

If you observe that he is uncomfortable tell him you noticed his discomfort and ask what is bothering him. If your child is experimenting with drugs, you need to know the details to help him.

*Continue, “If you needed it, do you know where to find help?”

Listen to him -- pay attention to what he says and to the words he does not speak. Notice his body language, hear the underlying message, the words between the lines, his tone, word choice, and pace. Note his emotions, eye contact, and whether he is at ease or trying to conceal any discomfort.

Teens know drugs are dangerous. Some kids use them anyway. Let your child know you are not here to judge him. Live that truth to gain and maintain his trust. You can only help him if he is honest with you.

Most importantly, let him know you are having this talk because you love him and no matter what he has done, or is thinking about doing, he is safe talking with you. Tell him nothing can change your love for him.

*Once you have opened the lines of communication, go on to ask, “Do you know that alcohol, cigarettes and over-the-counter medicines can be as dangerous as illegal drugs? Or that beer and wine pack the same wallop as hard liquor?"
Watch his face and body for acknowledgement, disagreement, or confusion.

*Follow up with, ”Even sniffing markers changes the brain. Are you aware that years after they stopped using drugs, some people experience a recurrence of symptoms?”

*Ask your child, “Have you ever been in a car with someone who is high on drugs or alcohol? Were they driving?” Regardless of his response ask, “What did you do, or what would you do, in that situation?”

Knowledge is always the best way to live a happy, healthy and successful life. Facts are key. If he has unanswered questions, where can he go for accurate information? The streets, his friends, and the media may not be the best place to find what he seeks on the subject of drugs.

* Since drug use is often connected to sex, throw in, “Do you know that alcohol, rather than improving sexual performance, impairs it? And drinking often leads to careless sex and teen pregnancy?” Be sure he knows the consequences of the actions he may or may not take.

Drug abuse happens in all kinds of families and all kinds of neighborhoods. If your child wants drugs, he will find them. Know the signs to look for and -- please -- do pay attention!

When peer pressure kicks in, a wise and educated youngster who has previously given thought to and made decisions about his actions, has a better chance of living the life he chooses than someone who has not prepared himself for the situations that will come up in life.

Actions and results, desirable and undesirable, reflect self esteem. To change behaviors, treat the cause not just the symptom.

In some people, addiction and bad reactions, even death, can happen with the very first use. Do you want your kid to take that chance?

Ali Bierman, parent, psychotherapist and author of the popular ebook, Parents, You Gotta Ask Questions: How To Build Adolescent Self Esteem, poses 189 questions for you and your teen covering nine areas of life.
To find out more and grab your gift, the e-course, Parents, Are You Making These 6 Mistakes With Your Teen? click here http://www.saveyourchildnow.com

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Hairy Drug Test
By William Teleo

Employers in the last decade found it hard to rely on drug testing to ensure that they are hiring employees that are free from banned substances. However, the adoption of more stringent rules and restrictions at drug test sites and laboratories have made it harder for drug users to cheat. The variation of drug testing programs also allow choices and more certainty about the test results.

Urinalysis has been the most common and often used drug testing method. However, this is also the easiest to trick and cheat. Diluting urines with water or other colorless fluid is enough to make the drug traces virtually undetectable. To reinforce security on this kind of testing, most companies and drug testing laboratories prefer on-site specimen collection. A drug test technician either visits the site to collect and test samples from workers or candidates for testing visit the laboratories where their urines are collected and tested immediately. Candidates are not allowed to leave the testing room until the test is finished. This ensures that the urine samples collected are not tampered or diluted. However, on-site collection is awkward especially for women because the candidates are actually supervised while collecting their samples. The testing of oral fluid or saliva is also implemented but not popular. Though oral fluid can be collected easily and are not susceptible to alteration, results based on this test are still suspicious. This is because drug traces in saliva can be undetectable after a day. Hence, if a user stops taking drugs a day or two before the test, he may be given a negative mark and pass the test.

Newer technology in drug tests now allow for hair testing. In the present, this is regarded as the most foolproof drug test. Drug residue from drug use, whether ingested or injected, remains inside the hair cuticle. Even if the user bleached, colored, or cut his hair, the residue would still be present and can be detected. This is also very popular since the collection of samples is not difficult and possible without embarrassing the tester and the candidate. Candidates do not need to worry about ruined hairstyles since the snips are done in inconspicuous places and are not noticeable. The latter kind of drug testing are also more cost-efficient for employers. Though the fees for the test is pricier than urinalysis, the company saves more because hair testing can effectively weed out drug abusers from the company's ranks. This is because a drug-dependent employee cost a company as much as $10,000 in terms of unproductivity, absences, and benefits. They are usually the perpetrators of office theft. Plus, the employees would be deterred from using drugs because they know that is cheat-proof. All in all, investing in drug and hair testing are worthy expenses for the employer.

For more valuable information on drug testing, please visit http://www.adrugtest.com.

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From the Street to a Tropical Paradise With the Help of a Trusting Therapist
By Richard Singer

I woke up in a dark, gloomy, dungeon like hotel room in northern Florida trying to figure out how my life had gotten so out of control. I hadn’t changed or showered in a few days and I felt like all my humanity had been suddenly sucked out of me. I abruptly realized what had happened as I rolled over and had no idea who was lying next to me. Once again I relapsed and spent close to two thousand dollars on cocaine, for what reason I’m not sure. In the past 13 rehabs they told me I had a disease but my mind didn’t want to believe this. I could control this malady they called addiction, I could save myself, I believed I was all powerful and all knowing. I was an omnipotent being that didn’t need the help of anyone.

Well on this day, something was different. I was beat up, jobless, penniless, and I had just called my mother for help and she said she wanted nothing to do with me. This was her way of helping me to realize I needed help desperately. My heart sunk and I contemplated suicide once again. At this point I had two options available to me. Surrender to this disease like I was being suggested by the treatment professionals and begin recovery or end my life. Fortunately I chose recovery and began my path toward growth and a quality of life that I could never imagine.

Early recovery was difficult, however I was determined to stay sober a day at a time and make something of my life. With the help of addiction professionals who were genuine, caring, empathetic, and real I was able to make progress on a daily basis. I trusted them and this is what made recovery possible. I didn’t know what I wanted to do but I did know that I wanted to stay sober and those around me helped in every possible way they could.

Throughout the growth process of recovery I decided and was urged by my higher power to enter the field of addictions and to guide others to the life that I was given through the miraculous process of recovery. I ended up going back to school and accomplishing great feats that I could never imagine. I graduated with my undergraduate degree and pursued my master’s degree in clinical psychology. During these years I continued to work in the field of addictions and was mentored by incredible individuals in this field. I was taught to work with passion and care and to advocate for clients no matter what.

I have grown since the day I stepped in recovery. I have been blessed with a gift to be a therapist that cares about one and only one thing, helping clients improve their lives a day at a time. This thing many of us call work is my life. Therapy and helping others enjoy a better quality of living is my life and I continue to be blessed on a daily basis with clients who want the help to get better. Little do they know, that they help me more than I could ever help them. They give me strength to keep going on a daily basis and they share with me there personal lives and world. That is truly a gift.

I’ve come from the depths of insanity , sleeping on the street to working with individuals much like myself who want to live a better life. The best part of it is my new position that I recently accepted is in the Cayman Islands. Who would have thought, an alcoholic and an addict with an advanced degree in psychology helping other human beings better their lives in a tropical paradise. Its not something I would have ever imagined 6 years ago when I entered recovery. As a therapist I urge other therapists in this field to continue to have hope for your clients, because my therapists had hope for me and now I’m able to impact countless lives across the globe. Life for me is all about helping other human beings, which is the one pertinent key for the evolution of humanity and the universe we live in. Never, Never, Never, Never give up on a human being. It took me many tries , but eventually I succeeded.

About the Author
Richard A. Singer Jr. is a practicing psychotherapist living in the
Cayman Islands. He is formerly of Pennsylvania and has a Master’s
Degree in Clinical Psychology and is currently working on his Doctorate Degree in Psychology at Saybrook Graduate School and Research Center. His daily inspirations have been included as part of Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul, from the best selling Chicken Soup series. His own recovery from addiction and depression impassioned him to help others find courage, determination and peace, and has made what some would call “work” the love and purpose of his life. To learn more about Mr. Singer and explore updated information, visit his Web site http://www.yourdailywalk.org or E-Mail him at RAS9999@aol.com. In addition, please join the him for down-to-earth interactive discussions about the suggested monthly readings, daily quotes, meditations affirmations, and journaling sections of the book on his Amazon.com Blog.

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Drugs: Prison Or Probation
By Thomas Gallagher

Introduction

Many people have opposing views on how the drug problem should be tackled, with the epicentre of any debate focusing on two differing solutions to tackle the problem. These two solutions consist of imposing a sanction such as prison, or tackling the problem from a different angle by offering probation to an offender coupled with drug treatment programs. This article will assess to the effectiveness of the two systems. Firstly, the drug crisis and its effects on society will be examined. Following from this will be an assessment of each of the systems, focusing upon there effectiveness. Finally, some alternatives will be advocated that depart from the present system. After assessing all of the evidence available, the conclusion that will be reached is that if society is to curtail the exponential rise in drug abuse, a far more informative system must be implemented, before another generation is lost to drug abuse.

The Drug Conundrum

Drugs have been around in some form or another since 4000BC (Egyptians with wine and marijuana used for medicinal purposes in China). Although drugs were widely used, it was not until the 19th century that the active substances in drugs were extracted and used as a lifestyle choice.

The addictive nature of drugs was immediately apparent, although there was a gradual recognition of this property with the passing of the first national drug law, the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906. The destructive nature of alcohol in society led to the prohibition period in America. Therefore, the drug problem has been around, and more importantly, been acknowledged for some time.

The experimentation period of the 1960’s had a profound effect on society. The ethos was love, drugs, social ideological rebellion, more drugs, and then more drugs. The administration was rocked to its very foundations, which culminated in far more draconian police force. Whether proliferation in state interference was inevitable, a position advocated by Orwell, or whether it was a result of drug taking, one can only surmise. Nevertheless, the position is conclusive, drugs have had a significant effect on society. How society has chosen to deal with this crisis will now be examined.

The Threat of Prison as a Deterrent for drug Use

For an addict, the threat of prison is about as effective as a chocolate teapot in the desert. It relies on the premise that the addiction is controllable. Anybody who smokes or drinks coffee on a regular basis should be in a position to bear testament that the addictive nature of these two substances, once removed, can have severe effects on their day to day lives. So, what about heroin or crack cocaine?

Heroin addiction and crack cocaine addiction are possibly two of the most severe drugs for creating dependency and also tolerance. As higher doses are used, over time, physical dependence and addiction develop. With physical dependence, the body has become used to the presence of the drug and withdrawal symptoms may occur if use is reduced or stopped.

The symptoms that a person going through withdrawal process are cravings, restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhoea and vomiting, cold flashes with goose bumps ("cold turkey"), kicking movements, and other symptoms. Major withdrawal symptoms peak between 48 and 72 hours after the last dose and subside after about a week. Sudden withdrawal by heavily dependent users who are in poor health can prove to be fatal. Prison cannot be an effective deterrent against such symptoms.

Effectiveness of Probation

Probation is a term that can have a multitude of meanings, and, may be imposed after a prison sentence, although for drug users, this is often too little too late. The interpretation given in a dictionary is ‘the act of suspending the sentence of a person convicted of a criminal offence and granting that person provisional freedom on the promise of good behaviour’. This provisional period can entail many things for a convicted drug user, with impositions such as involuntary drug programmes and drug testing.

Involuntary drug programmes can entail taking substitute drugs to wean a person off a specific drug, resulting in a lower dependency and a reduced level of tolerance. The problems that can emanate form these programs consist of a lack of secondary support for drug users. This can result in an individual being drawn back into a cyclic situation which ultimately results in that individual taking the very drugs that the substitute drug was supposed replace. Involuntary drug tests emanated from America and involve a person being requested to take a drug test within a specific period of time. If the person tests positive, then the suspended sentence is then imposed, these will often lead to a custodial sentence.

Whilst the two systems do have their own merits, it is possible to adduce from these two alternatives a far from satisfactory conclusion. Both systems rely heavily on the circumstances that the drug user finds themselves in once the probation period has been imposed. Those who have funded their habit through criminal activities will often have a criminal record, and thus will be unable to find employment. They will often still exist in the very same peer groups where the original problems emanated, therefore, there must be a more viable solution to this drug quandary.

A Possible Alternative

The buzz word at this present moment in time is decriminalisation. Decriminalisation, in its most severe form would involve a complete removal of all criminal sanctions that are currently imposed for drug use. This would then remove drug users from the criminal process and would focus attention on treatment. There is staunch opposition to this concept in some quarters as people believe that it would create an environment for experimentation and lead to an exponential rise in drug taking. Advocates for decriminalisation point to alcohol as an example of a drug that, under correct supervision, can be controlled.

Conclusion

Any problem that involves an addiction will never be able to be tackled by easy solutions. This article has, however, highlighted to difficulties that society faces if it wishes to address this problem in organised concerted fashion. There is, however, a realisation that the draconian legislative measures, that have been, as of today, highly ineffective, being replaced with more suitable measures of tackling the drug issue. As a friend once said, ‘education, not incarceration’ is the only viable alternative.

Thomas Gallaggher
Llb John Moores University
LLM Liverpool Univeristy

If anyone is interested in this topic then please visit http://www.criminal-information-agency.com/drugs/ and http://www.criminal-information-agency.com/prison/ and http://www.criminal-information-agency.com/probation/

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A Look At Crystal Methedrine Addiction Treatment
By Bill Urell

Treatment for crystal methedrine addiction is of the utmost importance for anyone suffering from crystal methedrine. Crystal methedrine treatment is often the only way someone suffering from meth addiction can overcome his dependency on it. It is a very addictive drug and difficult to shake off on your own.

Crystal methedrine treatment can come in a variety of forms. The most intense type of crystal methedrine addiction treatment is staying at an inpatient methedrine addiction treatment facility. At an inpatient crystal methedrine treatment facility, the person suffering from a crystal methedrine is monitored 24 hours per day as he lives and engages in a course of treatment within the treatment facility.

At the addiction treatment center, the person suffering from the addiction will receive counseling, most often in both a group settings and in a one-on-one situation. The staff at the center will also provide the person suffering from a crystal methedrine with the necessary tools to be successful after leaving. Treatment actually continues long after they leave the inpatient program. Some skils such as relationship, drug refusal skills and conflict resolution skills are taught and experienced in groups.

As one of the highest levels of treatment care, a cocaine addiction treatment facility will offer 24 hour monitoring of withdrawal symptoms as long as is needed. Stopping cocaine use can often lead to both psychological and physical problems that are difficult to overcome without assistance.

The treatment facility might also offer outpatient care. It is usually recommended wherever it can occur. With outpatient care, the person coping with a cocaine addiction can receive the assistance he needs while still living at home and working. Unfortunately, an outpatient crystal methedrine treatment facility is usually not intensive enough to help the person dealing with a crystal methedrine in the initial stages. Ccrystal methedrine is simply too powerful.

Regardless of the form of crystal methedrine treatment, the person suffering from meth will also receive aftercare treatment from the cocaine addiction treatment center. Through aftercare, the professionals a the addiction treatment facility will monitor the patient’s success and ensure the patient is utilizing the skills he learned while at the addiction treatment center.

Receiving a course of treatment from a qualified, professional crystal methedrine treatment facility is often the level of intensity a person dealing with addiction needs to overcome the meth. If you or someone you know suffers from cocaine addiction, it is imperative to receive qualified help. The disease only gets progressively worse.

The author, Bill Urell, reviews only the best diet and fitness plans, tips, and articles that promote healthier lifestyles. Visit us and claim your FREE ebook, 101 Romantic Ideas as a welcome gift ==>http://www.online-weight-loss-resources.com

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A Look At Cocaine Addiction Treatment
By Bill Urell

Treatment for cocaine addiction is of the utmost importance for anyone suffering from cocaine addiction. Cocaine addiction treatment is often the only way someone suffering from cocaine addiction can overcome his dependency on cocaine. It is a very addictive drug and difficult to shake off on your own.

Cocaine addiction treatment can come in a variety of forms. The most intense type of cocaine addiction treatment is staying at an inpatient cocaine addiction treatment facility. At an inpatient cocaine addiction treatment facility, the person suffering from a cocaine addiction is monitored 24 hours per day as he lives and engages in a course of treatment within the treatment facility.

At the addiction treatment center, the person suffering from the addiction will receive counseling, most often in both a group settings and in a one-on-one situation. The staff at the center will also provide the person suffering from a cocaine addiction with the necessary tools to be successful after leaving. Treatment actually continues long after they leave the inpatient program. Some skilss such as relationship, drug refusal skills and conflict resolution skillsare taught and experienced in groups.

As one of the highest levels of treatment care, a cocaine addiction treatment facility will offer 24 hour monitoring of withdrawal symptoms as long as is needed. Stopping cocaine use can often lead to both psychological and physical problems that are difficult to overcome without assistance.

The treatment facility might also offer outpatient care. It is usually recommended wherever it can occur. With outpatient care, the person coping with a cocaine addiction can receive the assistance he needs while still living at home and working. Unfortunately, an outpatient cocaine addiction treatment facility is usually not intensive enough to help the person dealing with a cocaine addiction in the initial stages. Cocaine addiction is simply too powerful.

Regardless of the form of cocaine addiction treatment, the person suffering from cocaine addiction will also receive aftercare treatment from the cocaine addiction treatment center. Through aftercare, the professionals a the cocaine addiction treatment facility will monitor the patient’s success and ensure the patient is utilizing the skills he learned while at the cocaine addiction treatment facility.

Receiving a course of treatment from a qualified, professional cocaine addiction treatment facility is often the level of intensity a person dealing with cocaine addiction needs to overcome cocaine. If you or someone you know suffers from cocaine addiction, it is imperative to receive qualified help. The disease only gets progressively worse.

The author, Bill Urell, reviews only the best diet and fitness plans, tips, and articles that promote healthier lifestyles. Visit us and claim your FREE ebook, 101 Romantic Ideas as a welcome gift ==>http://www.online-weight-loss-resources.com

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Are You Emotionally Addicted To Food?
By Michael Bens

You might overdose on potato chips or even perhaps tortilla chips once in a while, but did you ever consider that you might be addicted to food? The answer is very important, because it could be the key to determine what steps you need to take in order to lose weight. A significant number of medical experts say that food addiction is just as serious as nicotine or cocaine addiction, and it can potentially be just as deadly.

An indicator of food addiction is when you find yourself with overwhelming desire for a particular food. The desire is so strong, and you are unable to consume that particular food, you begin to experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and depression. Food addicts desire the comfort that a particular food gives them. They also experiences bouts of binge eating of that particular food. The cravings may be physical as well as psychological.

It should be noted that several varieties of food addictions exist. For example, there is compulsive overeating, where an individual goes on an eating binge that may last several days. The addicts do however lose weight, but tend to gain it back over time. Other symptoms include eating quickly, compulsively eating alone, and also eating when there is no evidence of hunger.

Another common form of addiction is bulimia, in which the individual overeats, than purges the consumed food through vomiting or by taking laxatives. Signs of this condition include isolating oneself when eating, consuming huge portions of food rapidly, and being over conscious as well as preoccupied with one’s weight.

Food addiction also comes in the form known as anorexia, in which the individual attempts to starve oneself in order to achieve an unrealistic weight loss In a short amount of time. Anorexics tend to be around 15 percent below normal body weight and have a phobia about being fat and gaining weight. They often have difficulty eating with other people and appear to be obsessed with their weight. They also may suffer depression.

There is good news! Food addiction can be successfully treated. Treatment can come in variety of forms. A food addict may work with a psychotherapist in order to develop new ways to deal with food and their emotions. The therapist might be able to identify the origin of individuals’ food addiction, and also discovers the reasons for the condition. In the majority of cases, the psychologist will help the individual develop a treatment plan which structures expectations and short and long term goals. In more serious cases an individual may chose to undergo in-patient treatment at a psychological facility. Treatment often involves helping the individual to return to a healthy eating lifestyle, deal with underlying emotional issues of food addiction, and learn to develop new coping techniques.

Food addicts often follow the structure of the same kind of 12 step program used by alcoholics. By admitting their powerlessness over food, their belief that they could be restored to normal state of mind and an admission of their faults and failings. In addition food addicts often draw strength from support groups who have similar difficulties dealing with food. Knowing that there are other people who face the same challenges can be incredibly therapeutic.

At this point, it is unclear whether food addiction is a genetic-based illness. Although there is evidence of eating patterns being passed down throughout generations. In fact, many food addicts many food addicts only seek help after they have concluded that their illness could adversely affect their children.

It is entirely possible that in the long run food addiction can never be cured and only be treated. In other words, the recovery period can last a lifetime, yet one should never lose hope of beating food addiction. With patience and time, individual addicts can adopt behavioral skills which will enable them to keep their weight under control. Of course, there will be times when individuals will be tempted to indulge in food; however knowing the pain that they will undergo if they continue their harmful eating habits could be the incentive to fight against food addiction.

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