Addiction and Recovery

2007-07-04T17:03:00.000-07:00

Crack Addiction: No Longer A 'Cheap' High
By Bill Urell

Crack addiction affects people of all ages throughout the United States. The number of people suffering from crack addiction continues to rise, in part, because supporting a crack addiction is initially relatively inexpensive. That makes it easy to get hooked. Unfortunately, crack is highly addictive, making it very easy to develop a crack addiction even for someone who want to try it 'just once.'

Crack addiction is also on the rise because it is the 'poor man’s' version of the powdered form of cocaine, which is very expensive. Crack addiction does not, however, only affect poor or lower class people.

Crack addiction crosses all races, classes, and socio-economic backgrounds. No matter the background or social status, a person who develops a crack addiction finds it to be nearly impossible to stop and recover from the crack addiction.

Crack addiction can result in a whole array of physical problems. One physical problem that can result from crack addiction is an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Crack addiction can also cause the eyes to become dilated, anxiety, and a decrease in mental alertness and clarity. In addition, crack addiction can cause hot and cold flashes and sleeplessness. Eventually it often leads to paranoia and psychosis.
A person coping with a crack addiction will ultimately develop a tolerance to crack. This makes it more difficult for the person suffering from a crack addiction to get high. Therefore, he has to take increasingly larger amounts of crack. The initial low cost now becomes less of a factor because the overall amount used continues to increase.

Yet, crack addiction is treatable. A crack addiction treatment program can help a crack addict recover from crack addiction when he is ready to be helped. Usually, the most difficult part of recovering from a crack addiction is the pain, both physical and psychological, associated with crack withdrawal.

For this reason, it is important for a person receiving crack addiction treatment to do more than go through a detoxification process. The person suffering from a crack addiction also needs to learn how to handle temptation and how to handle problems without turning to crack for help. The person then needs guidance and support after receiving treatment for a crack addiction to ensure he puts his newly learned skills to use. Engagement in long term continuing care and lifestyle change is neede to insure any degree of success.

Crack addiction is potentially fatal, but through qualified, professional help, the chances of recovery are incresed.

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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2007-07-04T17:00:00.000-07:00

Oxycodone Addiction - It's Just Medicine Right?
By Bill Urell

Oxycodone is an narcotic analgesic used to control pain and an anti-cough medication. A common brand name is Oxycontin. Oxycodone addiction and use has been increasingly dramatically in the past ten years. In fact, the average use of oxycodone in the United States has increased by 300% of the past decade. Likewise, the number of emergency room visits related to oxycodone addiction and use has increased by 500%.

Since oxycodone is meant to be taken orally, it has become an attractive drug of choice for people suffering from addiction to opiates that normally are taken via needle. The saftey factor of the fact that it is a timed release drug, is gotten around by crushing it up and snorting it or disoloving it and shooting it up.To satisfy their need for oxycodone, people suffering from oxycodone addiction call in phony prescriptions and steal hydrocodone from pharmacies.

Oxycodone addiction affects people of all ages. Pill addiction is often looked at as a white collar problem that is used only by professionals. In reality, oxyocodone addiction is steadily increasing among all groups of people. Yet, the most likely group of people to suffer from oxyocodone addiction is 10-40 year old white women.

Recovering from hydrocodone addiction can be difficult because hydrocodone creates both a mental and a physical addiction. In the person suffering from hydrocodone addiction, the hydrocodone stimulates opiate receptors in the brain. For the person with a hydrocodone addiction, this results in feeling extreme pleasure.

A feeling of relaxation and satisfaction that can last for many hours then follows the initial high created by oxyocodone in the person with a oxyocodone addiction. Along with the feeling of relaxation, the respiratory system is affected causing a decrease in the rate of breathing. This slow down in the person with the addiction can be fatal.
Traditionally, oxyocodone addiction treatment dealt with both the psychological side of addiction and the symptoms of hydrocodone addiction withdrawal. This method, however, has not proven to be a highly effective method for treating this addiction.

A newer method for dealing with oxyocodone addiction withdrawal is called Accelerated Neuro-Regulation (ANR). ANR looks at hydrocodone addiction as disease that needs to be treated with medical techniques. This method has shown a greater effectiveness in the treatment of oxyocodone addiction.

No matter the method used to treat oxy addiction, it is imperative for the person suffering from hydrocodone addiction to get help with his problem it can be a matter of life or death.

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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2007-07-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

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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2007-07-04T16:57:00.001-07:00

Stop Gambling Addiction
By Howard Keith

Compulsive gambler finds a stop gambling addiction website they believe meets their needs after numerous failed attempts. They finally realize their gambling addiction is totally out of control and they have lost respect from family and friends.

Stop gambling addiction website understands what the compulsive gamblers need in order to over come their gambling addiction. Here is a list that Stop Gambling Addiction Website offers to the compulsive gambler:

1) Stop Gambling Addiction website was created by a compulsive gambler.
2) Stop Gambling Addiction website understands what the compulsive gambler has gone through and is currently going through.
3) Stop Gambling Addiction website has various stop gambling addiction resources
4) Stop Gambling Addiction website has a private anonymous chat room available seven days a week twenty four hours a day.
5) Stop Gambling Addiction website offers one on one telephone assistance for their members.
6) Stop Gambling Addiction website can help the family and friends of a compulsive gambler to understand what they are going through.
7) Stop Gambling Addiction website offers numerous articles related to stop gambling addiction for the compulsive gambler.
8) Stop Gambling Addiction website has over two hundred members ready and willing to help the compulsive gambler
9) Stop Gambling Addiction website has a self help manual that is easy to read with the end result you will start your road to recovery.
10) Stop Gambling Addiction website allows its members to post messages to other members.
11) Stop Gambling Addiction website has a section on stop gambling addiction poetry, stop gambling testimonials, stop gambling addiction resources and other compulsive gambler stories.
12) Stop Gambling Addiction website has helped thousands of compulsive gamblers beat their addictions. This could be you if you give yourself the chance.

The future is your choice. Remember the times you didn’t gamble and had cash in your wallet. Look forward and this can be true again if you take the time to understand your addiction and be proactive in your quest to stop

Mr. Howard Keith has an extensive background in dealing with compulsive gamblers, relatives and friends of gamblers and teenage gamblers.Mr. Keith believes there are many alternatives to aid in the recovery of a gambling addiction verses a twelve step program.
For more information on gambling addiction and stop gambling you can check out

Stop Gambling Addiction website has the useful resources and links on how to stop gambling. http://www.istoppedgambling.com/

You can also check out Mr. Keith’s Stop Gambling Addiction Books. Stop Gambling Addiction Books help's compulsive gamblers and family members find resources to help with there gambling addiction.

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2007-04-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Domestic Violence
By Sean Winter

Alcohol and drug abuse can have serious tolls on the physiological and psychological health. Not only for the addict buy for family and friends as well. The situation becomes something beyond control, especially when things get abusive for everyone. The addict can't break free from the addiction for the obvious reasons.

When this happens you will need to get help, you probably can’t do this on your own. Unless your Superman or Wonder Woman.

Drugs and alcohol are directly related to domestic violence. Addicts often find themselves without their drug. When this happens they can get very irritable, and many times abusive. They also become abusive when using their drug of choice. Most likely if you’re reading this, someone you care about is addicted to something. Have you ever tried to come in between an addict and their drugs? Not a pretty sight. They will argue with you, tell you they hate you, and of course abuse is also a major factor.

Why do they need help?

These reasons alone are enough to get this person some help, and not to mention you. This will continue until someone takes initiative, and you know an addict won't do this. A lot of times it seems that this person does not care about you, and that they would choose their addiction over you. They will but that is just the drugs talking. You have to jump over or push through the obstacles to handle this situation, it will take some time but it is worth it. Don’t you think?

Sean has been a writer for 10+ years and is knowledgeable in many different areas.
Sean Winter is also webmaster of http://www.findaddictiontreatment.com

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2007-04-07T06:22:00.001-07:00

Pain Pill Addictions
By S. Wagner

Probably one of the worst addictions to have is an addiction to pain pills. In this article I am going to tell you my own story of pain killer addiction and how I personally got over it. Hopefully, this will give you the courage and the strength to do the same.

First of all, I am speaking from personal experience. This isn't something I got from a medical journal. Many years ago I had terrible sinus problems. Well, they got to the point where one morning I woke up with such a blinding headache that I had to take 2 extra strength Bufferin to rid myself of the pain. Little did I know, that was the start of a 10 year addiction to pain killers.

The next morning I woke up, same headache, but not as bad. I decided to run for the pain killers before my headache got any worse. Instead of going to a specialist for sinus problems, and getting to the root of the problem, I decided to just treat the symptoms.

Well, over time, I started to notice that even though the headaches were not as bad, and sometimes even ever so slight, I would immediately run to the pain killers at the slightest hint of pain, even if it was almost non existent. I was starting to wonder if the pain itself was in my head, no pun intended.

Long story short, I was on these pills for 10 years until I had become so anemic from them, due to internal bleeding from them, that I had to stop cold turkey or I would have died. Oddly, the fear of death literally killed the "phantom" pain that was in my head. It was then that I realized that I was indeed addicted.

It has now been quite a few years since I have taken an aspirin. It wasn't easy at first. My allergy symptoms, which were under control because of the aspirins, became quite severe, to the point where I had to start taking allergy shots. Over time, however, the shots began to work, which was something I should have done long ago, and the allergy symptoms were gone as well as the headaches.

Combining that with a healthy new way of living, new diet, and new outlook on life, I have been pain free and pain killer free for years now. By simply saying no to pain killers, you can lick this terrible addiction. It won't be easy, but it just may save your life.

To YOUR Health,

Steve Wagner has been pain free for many years now because of a clean way of living. Why not visit his website at http://www.natures-healing-remedies.com/ and get your free report on how the drug companies are killing us. You will also get a weekly series on a number of natural treatments for a number of ailments.

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2007-04-07T06:22:00.000-07:00

Addiction - When Gambling Becomes a Problem
By Jack Reider

While most people enjoy casino gambling, sports betting, lottery and bingo playing for the fun and excitement it provides, others may experience gambling as an addictive and distractive habit. Statistics show that while 85 percent of the adult population in the US enjoys some type of gambling every year, between 2 and 3 percent of will develop a gambling problem and 1 percent of them are diagnosed as pathological gamblers.

Where can you draw the line between harmless gambling to problem gambling? How can you tell if you or your friend are compulsive gamblers? Here you can find answers to these questions and other questions regarding problem gambling and gambling addiction.

What is the Meaning of Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling or compulsive gambling is defined as an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the destructive effect of gambling on the gamblers life and despite feelings of guilt and remorse. Problem gambling tends to have a negative effect on the gamblers financial state, relationships and daily life. Severe cases of problem gambling can be defined as pathological gambling.

Am I a Compulsive Gambler?

1) Do you gamble until your last penny runs out?

2) Do you gamble to win back your former losses or debts?

3) Did you ever had to borrow money to continue gamble?

4) Did your gambling habit ever made you lie to your friends or family?

5) Did you ever skip work or other obligation to gamble?

6) Do you tend to gamble to forget about your personal problems or to celebrate happy occasions?

7) Does gambling have a negative affect on your daily life or relationships?

If you have answered yes on at least one of the questions listed above, then you have a problem.

Can Anyone Become a Compulsive Gambler?

Theoretically, yes. Any gambler can develop gambling problem regardless to the type of gambling he is occupied with, the amount of money and time he is spending on gambling. Researches show that slot machines that can be found in bars and convenient stores are the most addictive type of gambling activity, while lottery draws and bingo games are located on the other end of the scale. Gambling addiction is an emotional problem; its symptoms, causes and treatments are similar to any other form of addiction.

How Can I treat Gambling Addiction?

1) Group Therapy:

Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12 step self help program similar to the one offered to alcohol addicts in Alcoholics Anonymous. Group therapy also offers gambling addicts advice and support from professional counselors and other gambling addicts in different phases of their recovery process. Gambler Anonymous centers are available in more than 1,200 locations statewide.

2) Individual Therapy:

Cognitive or behavior therapy can help gambling addicts to identify their unaware thinking and acting patterns, which led them to gamble compulsively, and to replace them with controllable and healthier ways of thinking.

3) Psychiatric Medication:

It has recently been proven that antidepressant medications from the family of SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be affective in treatment of gambling addicts.

As the editor of a guide to online casinos Jack Reider has had to deal with gambling addictions in all forms. He has helped users and Gamblers Anonymous organizations connect.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Addiction---When-Gambling-Becomes-a-Problem&id=495453

2007-04-07T06:21:00.000-07:00

What You Should Know About Dealing With Addiction, Part 1
By Gabriel J. Adams

Whether you love chocolate or can’t stop watching reality television shows, there are certain addictions that bring danger to your health, livelihood, or emotional stability. When one gets into the habit of abusing substances, displaying caustic behavior, and/or following negative lifestyle patterns, they will need extra support and help to break the cycle of self-destruction. Below you will find a variety of signs that arise when one needs help dealing with addition.

Different Types of Addiction

When the word “addiction” is mentioned in a conversation, many people tend to think of drugs and alcohol as the main source of the problem. There are plenty of other factors that can lead to the loss of control over substances, behavioral patterns, or habits. When addicted, an individual feels as if they have to possess, use, or take advantage of whatever circumstance or substance is consuming their life. Addiction can take over the psychological stability of a person or attack their physical well being. In many cases, both instances are involved.

Physical addiction encompasses the body’s dependency on a specific substance (whether it is cocaine, alcohol or heroin). Over time, a person may build up a tolerance to this substance, making smaller doses obsolete. In turn, an individual needs to consume or intake larger quantities of the drug to continue feeling the same high they are accustomed to. When a physically addicted person ceases the use of their drug of choice, they may undergo withdrawal symptoms. For this reason, quitting their physical addictions becomes even harder.

Psychological addiction occurs when one displays a craving for a drug or activity that affects their emotional stability. It is the desire to have the drug or participate in an act that moves one to continue, which often leads to desperate actions, such as lying or stealing. Eventually, the need for the drug or activity begins to surpass the initial longing to have fun. A dependency develops and quitting the habit becomes very hard.

Physical and psychological addiction may occur when one becomes dependent on alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, sex, food, and other illegal drugs. Dealing with addiction is rather difficult to master, but recognizing and knowing the signs will help immensely in eradicating the dependency. Drug addicts may use illegal substances to forget their daily problems and relieve stress. Sex addicts may place themselves in dangerous situations to bring someone home with them. Gambling addicts may steal money from family and friends so they can visit casinos or play the lottery. Those addicted to food may display the signs of eating disorders, such as bulimia. Alcoholics may exhibit anxiety, anger, depression, and/or mood swings.

Opinions in this article do not necessarily reflect the view of Addiction Help which the author would like for you to visit.

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2007-04-07T06:20:00.000-07:00

Instant Advantages Of Quit Smoking Why is It Necessary To Curb On Your Smoking Addiction?
By Charles Greg

Eager to know the benefits of smoking cessation! Ask someone who had remained a smoker for a pretty long time and is now successfully out of the grip of cigarettes. A wealth of people fall in the grip of cigarette addiction on a daily basis due to their happy-go-lucky attitude to life and also for the reason that they are utterly oblivious to the drastic consequences that addiction to cigarettes unleash in the life of a person!

And when the quit smoking brigade achieves success, they experience a plethora of positive changes in their health and hygiene. It is a plain truth that once a person successfully gets rid of smoking addiction, within 15 minutes the high blood pressure that he was suffering from on account of smoking addiction reaches the normal stage. And dear buddy, this is not the only benefit to be derived from cigarette addiction!

There are other striking advantages also which are equally beneficial. To inform you on some of them, here is a brief glimpse on the instant benefits which you can avail of once you quit smoking effectively:

- After you succeed in inducing smoking cessation, the nicotine remnants are ejected out of your body in 10 days.

- Just within 70 minutes, the oxygen level in the blood improves drastically and as it happens; your health condition significantly develops.

To add to this list, after you are out of the shackles of cigarette addiction, erectile dysfunction, cancer and other smoking induced ailments would remain far distant from you. So, isn’t it a necessity to pile up all your resources and get rid of smoking addiction at the earliest?

The author writes articles on smoking related issues, especially on the causes, consequences and cure of smoking addiction. For more tidbits on these matters, visit the website http://www.chantixhome.com

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2007-04-07T06:19:00.000-07:00

Coping Emotionally With Overcoming Addiction
By Serhat Pala

Overcoming addiction, particularly drug addiction (like the one mentioned in the recent HBO documentary Addiction), is perhaps one of the most difficult physical challenges we as humans can surmount. Our body's dependency on a substance can lead to physical side effects from withdrawal, as our organs become used to life without addiction. The repercussions are multi-dimensional, and can be physical torture. Invariably it's will power and professional help that's needed to rectify the situation. But seldom when we think about overcoming addiction do we consider the mental and emotional impact of giving up. Arguably addiction is as much a physical dependency as a mental dependency, and it can be particularly hard to find the mettle to live in the face of addiction.

In order to have the first chance of success in overcoming an addiction (like in the documentary HBO Addiction), the addicted (the patient) must be personally willing to do so. The single most common reason for post-rehabilitation lapses is a lack of appreciation for the end goal. It is absolutely imperative that the patient understands the consequences, and actually wants to give up. Without that personal determination, the best medical and professional drug addiction treatment in the world wouldn't stand a chance. With this hurdle out the way, its important to make sure the patient understands the process, and never loses sight of the aim. Demonize as far as possible, but understand that drug addiction is a lot more than lack of will. Regardless of the subject of a given drug addiction, the process is the same – gradual and awkward. It is therefore important for healthy recovery to present a balanced appreciation for the patient's circumstances. Keep them busy, and give them a shoulder to cry on when they need it. Tough love is good, but it’s also essential you provide support and guidance.

If you're addicted, or you think you might be addicted (to any substance including drug addiction), the first thing you should do is come to terms with the fact that you are indeed physically and mentally reliant on the subject. You need to stop, and put your life into perspective – understand the damage addiction can do, and understand your body's needs throughout your treatment program. Try to ignore what your body tells you in the early days. for Addiction can cause biological confusion, so don't worry about cravings. In fact, many recovering addicts find they gain weight rapidly as they try to compensate for their lack of the subject with food and drink. If this applies to you, take comfort in the fact that your health will significantly improve without addiction over time, and remember that your weight gain should level out soon enough. Keep your eye on the ball, and make sure you cry when you feel like it, laugh when you feel like it, and talk when you feel like it. Indulge yourself socially and talk about your problems. Others might get sick of listening, but at the end of the day social, hence mental reassurance is pivotal to a successful drug recovery, even more so than the best of drug abuse recovery programs.

This article is prepared by Christy Berger who writes for Drug Addiction as in HBO's Documentary - Addiction. A longer version of this article can be found at Overcoming Drug Addiction. Main resource of this article is Drug Testing Kits: Urine Test Kits - Home Hair Drug Testing.

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2007-02-03T05:23:00.000-08:00

Accelerated Detox and Rehabilitation
By Stephanie Loebs

Just as various drugs of abuse and alcohol differ in their effects, so too does the withdrawal from these drugs differ. This doesn't mean, however, that treatment needs to be a frightening or painful process. Any healthcare professional who specializes in drug rehabilitation will recognize the need for effective treatment, and know that the process can also be safe and comfortable for all residents. Medical withdrawal, which used to be referred to as "Detoxification" or "Detox" is a comprehensive, medically managed approach to managing the transition from physical dependence to abstinence.

Such treatment for healing the mind and body of drug dependency requires medical oversight, careful monitoring, medications and sometimes alternative approaches. Most medicated withdrawal protocols have a proven track record of providing the most comfortable treatment possible, while ensuring a safe transition from drug and alcohol use to early recovery. Accelerated programs designed to help addicts overcome dependence are effective, thorough and don't skip any steps on the path toward comfortable sobriety.

Medicated withdrawal begins the process of safely, comfortably, and quickly freeing intoxicants from the body, and is frequently required when people begin their journey in recovery. Abruptly discontinuing some drugs can be damaging to the brain, and/or body, and in some cases specialized treatments are required to help the brain heal in early recovery. Each drug of addiction - be it alcohol, cocaine, heroin, prescription drugs, "club drugs" or any of the other addictive chemicals of abuse - requires a specialized approach to medical withdrawal.

Medical withdrawal may involve one-on-one assessment by nurses and members of a rehab clinic's medical team. Careful attention is paid to signs of intoxication and withdrawal, as well as potentially complicating medical or psychiatric conditions. Vital signs are measured as part of a comprehensive, holistic, initial and ongoing assessment of the withdrawal process. Medications and other treatments are administered for comfort and safety, and patients complete the "detox" process as rapidly as possible.

Because everyone is different, complications can occur. That's why it's helpful to have a medical staff that is trained in managing complicated withdrawal, as well as medical and psychiatric concerns. If you suspect somebody you love is abusing drugs or alcohol and is in need of detoxification, consult with a physician immediately to learn where you can find an effective program.

Stephanie Loebs is the executive director of Williamsburg Place, one of the top drug rehab clinics in the nation. Williamsburg Place aids those who suffer from drug and/or alcohol addiction, and specializes in caring for health care professionals. For over twenty years Williamsburg Place and its joint rehabilitation center, the William J. Farley Center, have helped thousands of people from all walks of life take back their lives and overcome substance abuse.

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2007-02-03T05:20:00.000-08:00

Classifying Drugs of Abuse
By Stephanie Loebs

When you plan to confront an employee or loved one about drug and/or alcohol abuse, it is important to know the all the facts, not just about the addiction, but about the drugs involved. Health professionals who specialize in addiction and recovery are aware of the damage drug and alcohol abuse can do to a person's health, finances, and personal and professional relationships. When you contact somebody for help in these matters, you will be made aware of the consequences if immediate action is not taken.

The more you know about controlled substances, the better equipped you will be to help those in need of rehabilitation and recovery. Drugs of abuse typically fall into specific categories:

Cannaboids - marijuana, hashish
Depressants - barbiturates and various prescription drugs
Dissociative Anesthetics - ketamine, PCP
Hallucinogens - LSD, peyote
Opioids - morphine, various prescription drugs
Stimulants - cocaine, methamphetamine
Inhalants - nitrites, aerosols
Alcohol - beer, wine, spirits

The sources for these drugs may vary. They may be purchased illegally from dealers, obtained through forged prescriptions or theft, and in some case bought legally. Certain household objects, like model glue and aerosol sprays, may also be abused to achieve a dangerous, addictive high. Regardless of whether or not a drug is legal, the fact remains that any substance with addictive properties can be abused, and if addictive behavior is not treated it can lead to health and mental problems, perhaps permanent brain damage or death.

If you believe somebody you love is abusing drugs, you are encouraged to learn more about the various narcotics and controlled substances that keep thousands in addiction each year. Know what to look for, then contact a physician or rehabilitation clinic today to learn more about the intervention and detox services.

Stephanie Loebs is the executive director of Williamsburg Place, one of the top drug rehab clinics in the nation. Williamsburg Place aids those who suffer from drug and/or alcohol addiction, and specializes in caring for health care professionals. For over twenty years Williamsburg Place and its joint rehabilitation center, the William J. Farley Center, have helped thousands of people from all walks of life take back their lives and overcome substance abuse.

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2007-01-27T05:43:00.000-08:00

Crack Addictions
By Jimmy Sturo

From its original use as a local anesthetic in various types of surgeries, cocaine has come a long way. Crack is a highly addictive form of cocaine that is typically consumed by smoking, though it is sometimes injected. The reason it's called crack is because of the crackling sound that one hears when the substance is heated.

Talk about drug addicts and the first picture that comes to your mind is that of a person (commonly a younger person) with long hair sitting in a dirty, smoke filled room and inhaling some sort of a white powder. Though it is true that some drug addicts fit this image, the vast majority don't.

Cocaine was quite expensive when it was first introduced and was considered a high-society drug. By the 1980s, the inexpensive crack was introduced, which increased the availability of the drug and crack became the choice of drug for many users. This was particularly true for the youth of the inner-city, mostly poor, unemployed youth.

There are many reasons that contributed to the popularity of crack. The facts that it is inexpensive, can be concealed easily, has relative ease of use, and enjoys wide availability are some of the major ones.

Crack has some serious health effects on the body. Physical effects include increased heart rate, temperature and blood pressure, dilated pupils, and constricted blood vessels. Other effects include irritability, restlessness, and anxiety.

In extreme cases, high usage of crack for continuous periods can cause a period of full blown paranoid psychosis. During this period, the addict loses total touch with reality and experiences visual and auditory hallucinations.

Since people addicted to crack will do almost anything to get the drug, the major side effect of the habit include mugging, robberies, theft or even murder, all to get the money required to finance this habit. This makes this drug particularly dangerous to society, especially innocent individuals.

This powerfully addictive stimulant has resulted in the breakup of many families. Most people connected with crack users live in a state of confusion and chaos, since they are unable to understand the effects that crack has on a person's mind, body and psyche.

Luckily, a lot of help is available. There are plenty of treatment centers that help crack addicts get rid of this habit and lead normal, healthy lives once again.

Addiction provides detailed information on Addictions, Addiction Recoveries, Drug Addictions, Addiction Treatments and more. Addiction is affiliated with Alcoholism Addiction Treatment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Sturo
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2007-01-27T05:42:00.000-08:00

Young Adults and Addictions: 5 Ways a Parent Can Support Their Child
By Ann Bruno

1. Of course, stop using whatever chemical has been the drug of choice.

2. Get involved in a 12 recovery program as it is essential to keep the recovery process in action. What involved means is more that just going to AA meetings but that is a part of the process. Usually 90 and 90 is suggested for a newly recovering alcoholic and that means going to 90 meetings in 90 days. With that much intensity and saturation into a new way of thinking, it will be significant in creating new pathways in the brain for the change in behaviors. Get a sponsor as soon as possible. Pick a same sex sponsor and one who you determine has something that you want. And start working the steps of AA with your sponsor.

3. Make sure if there is a dual-diagnosis involved, it is addresses with the appropriate professional. Many times, depression, ADD , bipolar disorder and others are part of a person’s recovery and if not treated, can lead to using drugs and alcohol to self medicate. In the past, the recovery process was just focused on staying sober and everything else will take care of itself but today that is proven not to be true.

4. Get into therapy to work on the developmental and social problems that have occurred. In my experience, the emotional age of an addicted person is immature and needs to be matured and therapy can assist in this process. Therapy should also be directed to guide the individual to identify feelings and state what they are and what situations are eliciting the emotional state.

5. Develop a new set of friends who were not apart of the previous addictive life style.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ann_Bruno
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2007-01-27T05:40:00.000-08:00

Overcoming Addictions - Have The Desire To Overcome Them
By Kelly Price

Overcoming addictions can be a hard task to accomplish for anyone battling various personal demons.

Addictions are common and ruin lives particularly to substances and recreational drugs from drinking to drug abuse.

They ruin lives

Addictions are a strong and damaging force that tears apart the personal and professional lives of those it affects.

Overcoming addictions is essential for the welfare of those involved because it can destroy all of the things that are important.

Addictions evolve into this all-consuming demand within a person's life where they may do anything to satisfy the urge to "feed" and satisfy the addiction that has taken over their life.

The sort of behavior that was once normal for a person suffering from an addiction no longer takes precedence over what is believed to be needed to indulge in the addiction.

An individual may resist overcoming their addictions because they find pleasure in whatever relief the addiction provides for them during the time being.

The consequences of their actions are not taken into consideration until after the damage is done (if acknowledged at all) and they never achieve happiness and their addition causes them to be miserable

Why You need to overcome additions

Overcoming addictions are important because it drains an individual of the energy that they once used to accomplish normal and necessary tasks within everyday life.

An addiction can absorb the physical, as well as emotional energy that a person possesses, as well as ravish their resources, time and bonds between family, friends and co-workers.

Once this powerful lifestyle change has entered ones life, it is quite difficult to spend time and energy overcoming the addictions that influence the way they think, act and live.

Overcoming addictions also involves an understanding and recognition that someone is exhibiting a compulsive behavior involving the need for or ongoing use of a substance or engagement of a particular activity.

One of the most common addictions that is the hardest in overcoming is the use of drugs and/or alcohol.

The emotional and physical factors regarding a continued use of a drug is quite hard to shake. There are many resources and agencies created to help those who are overcoming these addictions, such as drug DETOX centers and support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

Other common addictions

An addiction does not always have to involve drugs or alcohol; there are many people who are overcoming addictions that simply deal with overindulgence in a particular activity, such as gambling.

Overcoming gambling additions is difficult for those it affects because many see gambling as a recreational outlet with the prospects of making extra money.

Although a gambling addiction does not physically harm an individual, the financial consequences for those who are unlucky in their endeavors have resulted in a loss of family, friends, job, home and trust.

Other vices that lead to a desire in overcoming addictions include:

Heroin, morphine, amphetamine, cocaine addictions, including tranquilizers

Addiction to nicotine and caffeine

Steroid addiction

Addiction to sugar

Addiction to acts, such as theft, working, as well as exercising

Sex addiction

When someone needs help in overcoming their addictions, they may turn to the help of professionals, such as psychoanalysts, psychiatrists, doctors, therapists, as well as medication, group or family therapy, hypnosis and meditation.

Sometimes it takes a process of tough love for someone to overcome the addiction they are battling.

A distinct desire to beat the demon within is a must when overcoming addictions.

If you have the desire

You can overcome your addiction. You may need help and support but that is nothing to be ashamed of and if you acknowledge you have a problem with addictions and are prepared to seek help ( whatever the addiction may be ) you are on the road to recovery and a happier and more fulfilling life.

MORE FREE INFO

On all aspects of health and more on illness prevention and cure visit our website for a huge resource of articles, features and downloads and at http://www.net-planet.org/index.html

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2006-12-13T19:24:00.000-08:00

Dual Diagnosis and Depression
By Jonathan Huttner

What is Depression in a Dual Diagnosis?Dual diagnosis is a condition that is comprised of two components; a psychiatric disorder and drug addiction or alcohol addiction. While many people understand drug addiction or alcoholism, a great deal are confused when it comes to depression. Depression is best described as a mood disorder with a wide range of symptoms such as a loss of pleasure, feelings of worthlessness or suicidal thoughts, The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, lists nine symptoms for major depression, five or more which must be present over the same two-week period, including one of the first two:

1) Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day, or 2) Markedly diminished pleasure. The other seven symptoms include: 3) Significant weight gain or loss, 4) Insomnia or hypersomnia, 5) psychomotor agitation or retardation, 6) Fatigue or loss of energy, 7) Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt, 8) Diminished ability to think or concentrate, 9) Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thinking, suicide attempts.Is Depression a person’s fault?Depression is a medical illness which affects brain, which in turn affects the rest of the body. One can no more snap out of depression that one can snap out of diabetes or heart disease. It would help to have a positive outlook, but the very nature of depression is a lack of positive outlook. Unfortunately, having depression still carries a stigma, though not nearly as bad as in the past. If there is any consolation, you are in good company: Winston Churchill and Mike Wallace, just to name a few, all had crushing depressions.The same holds true as it relates to drug addiction and alcoholism. Both of these are diseases, which are diseases of the brain, which can not just be wished away. Drug addiction and alcohol addiction must be treated in conjunction with the psychiatric disorder.

That is why treating a dual disorder or a person with a dual diagnosis is so challenging. Is there more than one type of Depression?Yes, there are several types of depression. Dysthymia, melancholic depression, atypical depression, bipolar depression, psychotic depression, catatonic depression, seasonal affective disorder, and postpartum depression all fall under the category of depression. Along with the emotional aspects of depression, there is also a physical component. Mind and body are very much connected. The risk of heart disease is doubled in people with depression, and a previous depression is often the greatest risk factor for heart disease and other ills, over smoking, drinking, high blood sugar, and previous heart attacks. Depression has also been connected to diabetes, bone loss, stroke, irritable bowel syndrome, and possibly cancer. In addition, people with depression have much higher rates of alcoholism and drug abuse than the general population.According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 18.8 million American adults, or about 9.5 percent of the US population age 18 and older in a given year, have a depressive disorder. According to the World Health Organization, depression is presently on track to becoming the world's second-most disabling disease (after heart disease) by the year 2020. In addition, depression is responsible for some $87 billion a year in lost productivity in the US (a conservative estimate), and according to Bank One, is responsible for most lost work days in its employees after pregnancy and childbirth.

Additionally, one million people worldwide die by their own hand, most as a result of a mood disorder. Finally, the linkage between depression and a host of physical illnesses makes it arguably the world's greatest killer. Where should I get treatment? If you are suffering from depression and it is part of a dual diagnosis, meaning there is a drug abuse or alcohol abuse problem associated with it, you can look into an addiction treatment program, drug rehab or alcohol rehab. All the above, should have the ability to treat your depression and substance abuse issues. If you do not have a drug addiction or alcohol addiction in conjunction with the depression, than you should in accordance with your attending psychiatrist, locate a psychiatric hospital nearest you.

Take a look at www.lakeviewhealth.com if you are looking for a dual diagnosis treatment program or call 1-800-511-9225

Jonathan Huttner is a principal owner of Lakeview Health Systems, a drug rehab and alcohol rehab with a dual diagnosis treatment component.

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2006-12-13T19:22:00.001-08:00

Compulsive Gambling, More Than Just Greed
By Peter Birlea

Most people think that people suffering from gambling problems have an addiction to money. Maybe they are just greedy right? Wrong, compulsive gambling has very little to do with money as most people think. Compulsive gambling is about a feeling that gambling produces for the individual.

Just like any other addiction, a compulsive gambler feels a ‘rush’ or ‘high’ when they have a win. The high that they feel creates a rush of good feelings in their brain that makes them feel great! They feel on top of the world, and life could not be any better. But that high does not last; the feeling only lasts as long as the win, maybe a few seconds, maybe a few days. Either way, the addict will crash again, and feel lower than before, leading them to seek out the next win. This is often called chasing the win.

The addict craves the feeling that is produced when they win, the rush of endorphins that makes them feel great. However, this is not a real feeling; gambling cannot create feel good endorphins in the brain. It can only mimic the feeling, which will lead the individual into a cycle of gambling addiction that will only worsen over time.

Of course, the compulsive gambler enjoys the wins because of the monetary benefit as well .However, the money will not last long, typically a gambling addict is drowning in debt and often has to resort to borrowing or stealing, and often selling possessions to pay the bills or find the next bit of money to gamble with.

Like any addiction, gamblers need their ‘fix’ they need to feel good and to create that feeling. And often they will need to resort to measures that they never would have in order to find the means to that end. 65% of compulsive gamblers will spend time in jail for committing a crime. Why? Because like other addicts, gamblers become desperate to feed their addiction and often resort to illegal activities to accomplish this.

Compulsive gambling needs to be treated like other addictions. Cocaine, alcohol, heroin, are all the same as compulsive gambling. All of these addicts need help to break free from their addictions, they cannot just walk away and quit. Addiction lies much deeper than that.

Peter is the author of Your Life Beyond Gambling" - a completely FREE minicourse that will tell you everything you need to know about "problem" gambling and how to get rid of it. If you or someone you care about is susceptible of having a gambling problem, you can visit Peter's website at http://www.lifebeyondgambling.com for help and advice.

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2006-12-13T19:22:00.000-08:00

Understanding Prescription Drug Addiction
By Xavier Gallery

The abuse and addiction of prescription medications is a growing problem in the United States. The FDA recently reported that more than 48 million people have abused prescription drugs at least once in their life. Abuse occurs under a number of different scenarios, and these include exceeding the recommended dosage, use of a drug outside of the prescribed intent, and prolonged usage. In most cases, the victim initially uses the drug within the prescribed manner. The problems tend to arise once the body builds a tolerance to the medication. Victims are then tempted to use higher doses to counteract the tolerance. It is at this point where addictions can be formed leading to physical and behavioral changes with the body.

While all medications have the potential to be abused, three categories of medicines are more likely to induce addiction behavior.

Opioids are drugs prescribed for their pain-relieving qualities. Commonly refereed to as narcotics, they include codeine, morphine, and oxycodone. Opioids work by attaching themselves to opioid receptors and blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Because the body builds up a tolerance to opioids, abusers often have to consume increasing quantities to achieve their desired effect. Long-term abuse of opioid prescriptions can lead to significant withdraw symptoms (dizziness, vomiting, sweating, etc).

CNS depressants are used to alleviate anxiety and sleep disorder symptoms. The most commonly prescribed CNS depressants are diazepam, alprazolam, and pentobarbital sodium. These drugs interact with the body by decreasing the activity of the brain in order to produce a calming or drowsy effect. Long-term abuse of CNS depressants can lead to a physical dependence that can be dangerous to brain activity if the drug is withdrawn.

Another commonly abused category of drugs are stimulants. These drugs are prescribed to increase brain activity. Stimulants increase a family of brain neurotransmitters called monoamines, which in turn increases body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose production. The effects of these drugs can create a psychological dependence for the user. Consistent abuse can cause dangerous side effects such as paranoia, cardiovascular failure, and seizures.

The key to treating prescription drug abuse is to recognize the problem signs. Doctors and pharmacists must be keen observers of any sporadic activity by their patients. This can include abnormal refill cycles, prolonged symptom complaints, and incessant requests for additional medication. Friends and family members can also play an important role in early detection. Identifying behavioral changes and a perceived reliance on medication are reasons to be concerned. If you are unable to confront the victim directly, report the behavior to their doctor or pharmacist.

More information on this topic can be found at http://prescriptionaddiction.info

Xavier writes for a number of informative websites concerning health care and weight loss. You can read more tips and resources at Prescription Addiction.info and Experimental Medicines

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2006-11-11T04:57:00.000-08:00

How To Help Yourself Find Freedom from Alcoholism and/or Drug Addiction
By Carl-Peter Lehmann

What is the Secret Formula to recover and free yourself from alcoholism or drug addiction?

In fact it's not really a secret at all. You've simply forgotten. And that is to remember WHO YOU REALLY ARE.

And who might that be?

That you are first and foremost a spirit (soul, call it what you like) being who has chosen a human experience to further your spiritual development and evolution.

And as a spirit being, your essence is pure love, light and freedom. You just have to look at a newborn baby to get a sense of that.

Problem is, the human experience does everything but help you remember that. The collective consciousness of society as a whole breeds fear and doubt - and together with being conditioned to think and act like everyone around you; you therefore forget your true nature.

So what's this got to do with Alcoholism and Drug Addiction?

Living in a 3-dimensional reality, i.e. body, mind and spirit, all this fear and doubt which you inevitably adopt as your own, means that instead of these 3 dimensions of yourself combining to radiate wholeness, you begin to reflect dis-ease.

This dis-ease may begin to manifest subtly as a form of stress or disharmony, but pretty soon if these warning signs aren't addressed, it will turn into full blown illnesses, which can be anything from cancers to heart attacks to alcoholism, drug addiction, or even combinations of these.

So the secret to overcoming these isn't to look for the latest in medical technology as your saviour (of course this shouldn't be totally ignored and still has a very important role to play), but to remember your true nature, your very essence, and realign with that.

You read stories all the time from people who have overcome the worst illnesses like cancer, where they haven't been given a chance to live by those in the know in the medical profession, to having completely healed themselves totally naturally. (Two great and well-known books to read by people who have done this are You Can Heal Your Life – Louise Hay and The Journey – Brandon Bays.)

Because by again making whole what you've temporarily 'broken' and getting body, mind and spirit in alignment again, will mean that any form of dis-ease simply won't be able to survive in your body. You will radiate your essence – love, light and freedom – and alcoholism, drug addiction or any other form of dis-ease will be banished from your body forever.

(Now I know there are many of you who will reject what I'm saying because it has no scientific basis and it doesn't make sense to your rational, thinking mind. That's fine. I'm not trying to prove a point or win any arguments. Choose to believe what you will.)

I also don't buy into the belief that many alcoholics and addicts in recovery choose to adopt, which is you always will be an addict or alcoholic and are thus only ever in recovery from your addiction.

Look, if that's an attitude that works for you, that's fine. Because ultimately use what works.

But for me that's an attitude that comes from fear, and since I don't believe fear is our true nature, I choose to believe differently. I believe our true nature is love and thus our aim should be to free ourselves from all dis-ease, including alcoholism and drug addiction.

Of course that isn't easy, but that's the work we were put here to do. That's our purpose, to remember who we really are and reconnect with our true essence. There are many people who have done it in the past like Jesus and Buddha – and there are many less well-known people who continue to do so today. Should we not aspire to be like them? Jesus put it beautifully – 'What I can do, you can do – and more.'

So on a practical level how can you begin doing that?

See your body as a temple and stop polluting it with all the crap you consume on a daily basis – obviously drugs and alcohol is a good place to startJ, but you can take that much further to include processed, dead, non-natural/non-chemicalized foods.

Try eating mostly raw, live organic foods and liquids for a month. See how you feel? I promise you, you'll feel like a totally brand, new person. Sure, have an 'off' day once a week, but stick to eating that way for the rest of the month. You won't look back, I guarantee you. Oh, and some form of exercise once in a while like a brisk walk won't hurt either.

To harmonize your mind, revamp your thinking. Begin to train your mind and watch your thoughts rather than have them run around on you like scattered machine gun bullets. Is this easy? Absolutely not! But changing your thinking so that the majority of your thoughts begin to reflect peace and harmony rather than fear and doubt is probably the hardest, yet most rewarding job you'll have while you're alive. Remember, I've said this before – your outer world is simply a reflection of your inner world.

To make this easier and to harmonize mind and spirit, begin to practice meditation. Practising the art of meditation is the biggest gift you can ever give yourself and is the secret to lasting happiness, peace and harmony. It will help you break through years of negative conditioning, and lousy thinking habits, but more importantly help you get back and reconnect with your true, loving essence - and with a bit of luck you may even reach full enlightenment like a Jesus or Buddha J

Alcoholism and Drug Addiction aren't part of the real you. Dedicate yourself to leaving them behind you for good. For me, they were a blessing because they forced me to re-look at myself and helped me reconnect with my true nature. Maybe they can do the same for you.

Carl-Peter has been free from his addictions for the last 5 years. He is author of the book – Addiction Uncovered – in which he shares his experiences and knowledge to help others free themselves from the shackles of alcoholism and drug addiction. More on this, as well as a Free 10-part educational course and eBook can be found at his website, http://www.addiction-uncovered.com/index.html He also contributes regular articles to his blog, http://www.addiction-uncovered.com/blog

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2006-11-11T04:56:00.000-08:00

Drug Addiction or Eating Disorder: Which Came First?
By Jonathan Huttner

When a person enters drug rehab or an addiction treatment facility and is diagnosed with a drug addiction and eating disorder, the question arises which addiction developed first and how do you treat two addictions?

First, let us define an eating disorder as the quality of one’s thinking as it relates to food and weight and not how much someone weighs. Then, we may take a look at various behaviors and address other criteria. In most cases, one’s thinking regarding food and weight became distorted way before they ever began using drugs or alcohol. It is not uncommon that after a period of time of trying to achieve certain self determined goals through binging, purging or restricting and not achieving those goals, that the person would turn to drugs as a means to accelerate the process or deal with the emotional whirlwind of depression, shame or self hatred. At this point we have an eating disorder and drug addiction going full throttle in an attempt to by the person to gain control. It rarely happens and is described as the “great illusion” by most treatment professionals.

How To Treat Drug Addiction And Eating Disorders

When entering a drug rehab or addiction treatment program with an accompanying eating disorder, the goal should always be patient safety. If the patient is not in a life threatening situation due to their disordered eating, then the individual usually enters detox for their drug addiction. After detox is completed, the person’s behavior as it relates to their eating disorder will be addressed. Whether it is binging, purging or restricting, the patient must be willing to address the behavior to achieve recovery. Realizing that abstaining from the eating disorder behavior will initiate cravings for drugs, the clinical staff at the addiction treatment facility must be acutely aware of the possibility of relapse. During this process, the addiction treatment facility must also address the issue of whether they are the appropriate setting for the patient and if not make a referral to another drug rehab or eating disorder facility.

You can find useful information regarding drug addiction, addiction treatment or eating disorders at www.recoveryconnection.org.

Jonathan Huttner is one of the the principals at Lakeview Health Systems, an addiction treatment,

alcohol and drug rehab facility.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Huttner

2006-11-11T04:55:00.000-08:00

Relapse Prevention and the Pink Cloud
By Jonathan Huttner

The “pink cloud” is best described as a period of time where the addict or alcoholic experiences a reprieve from the struggles associated with early recovery. These struggles are generally associated with the feelings of depression, anger, resentment, self pity and the realization of where their drug addiction or alcoholism has taken them.

Upon experiencing this phenomenon for the first time, the addict or alcoholic is understandably excited. They begin to believe they now “hold the key” to their recovery. This is where the seed for relapse is planted. They begin to believe more in themselves than in the process they have been following. Without the pain as a daily reminder, they tend to forget about what it took for them to embrace recovery. Denial rears its ugly head and they minimize how devastating their drug addiction and alcoholism really was and that they have a disease of drug addiction and alcoholism that requires attention on a daily basis. Relapse prevention becomes an afterthought as the person becomes defiant and rebellious regarding suggestions contrary to their desires. Without resorting to drugs or alcohol, the individual in recovery is one step away from relapse. Remember, relapse is not an event, it is a process.

Relapse Prevention versus the “Pink Cloud”

The relapse prevention plan that is designed while in addiction treatment or drug rehab is a plan for recovery when a person is feeling elated, depressed or anywhere in between... The relapse prevention plan is comprised of recognizing one’s triggers, unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors with recommendations on how to best address them. The addict and alcoholic are not used to feeling good about themselves. While most individuals would cherish high self esteem, the addict / alcoholic relishes self pity and low self worth. When there is no shame, they create it. So, when a recovering person starts feeling good about themselves, they need to work harder and practice what has been working for them. This will provide them the opportunity to break an old pattern of self sabotage and establish a new pattern of developing self worth. No matter how one is feeling, rely on the relapse prevention plan that has been developed for you.

For further information on relapse prevention, addiction treatment, drug addiction or alcoholism, you can visit RecoveryConnection.org – a web site dedicated to helping people overcome alcohol and drug addiction.

Jonathan Huttner is one of the the principals at Lakeview Health Systems, an addiction treatment,

alcohol and drug rehab facility.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Huttner

2006-08-27T05:08:00.000-07:00

Getting Rid Of Your Psychological Addiction To Help You Quit Smoking
By Tony James R.

Most of the time, it is the psychological addiction that triggers the need for smoking. Yes, the lack of nicotine is an obstacle to quit smoking but it is not the hardest obstacle. The fact is overcoming the psychological addiction can be even more challenging than trying to overcome the physical cravings.

Perhaps you may quit smoking in 1, 2 or 3 weeks, and you know the physical addiction is no more. But the tobacco addiction still remains in your mind tempting and reminding you how good it feels to smoke.

Upon having psychological smoking addiction, you feel the need and desire light a cigarette especially if you visit places that is highly associated like a pub or bar. Although you may quit smoking physically, but your chances of smoking will still be very high if you visit a bar regularly. The psychological addiction is stirred up from the environment and friends.

You can break this psychological addiction by seeking professional help. You can easily find contacts nowadays with the Internet. There are more and more programs nowadays to help you with your psychological and physical addiction.

In these programs, there will be a step by step action plan that you can follow everyday, ranging from little exercises to mental exercises to more vigorous exercise. The aim of these programs is to first get rid of your physical addiction and then slowly move on to your mental addiction.

So just sit down, relax and think about whether you seriously want to quit smoking. If you are still wishy-washy about your decision and hope that programs can help you decide “automatically” to quit smoking, then I suggest you continue smoking.

Because nobody will succeed to quit smoking without a firm 100% that they want to quit. Next is to look for what programs are available to you and suit you the most and follow the plan step by step. I ensure you will be on your way to successfully quit smoking.

Tony James is an ex-smoker for 15 years and is currently helping smokers to quit smoking with ease without the discomfort of cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

For more free articles, contents and resources on how to quit smoking:

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2006-08-27T05:05:00.000-07:00

Drug addictions are destroying our country, little by little. The families that suffer from having a family member addicted to drugs are increasing in numbers.We as the family of the addict, need to rise up in arms to be heard.

I personally have a family member that has been an addict for 13 years, half of his life. When he is sober and not using, he is the kindest most wonderful person you would ever want to know. But when he is using, you cannot trust him or anything he says or does. He has no money for drugs, so he obtains them by giving everything that is not nailed down away to the dealers that prey on his weakness.

In the last two weeks he gave away his cell phone twice, his wedding ring, his baby stroller and car seat and even his car, just to obtain drugs. He is newly married with a six week old baby. His addiction has destroyed his immediate family and now is working on destroying his new family.

Somehow, he has managed to keep his job, even though he has only been going to work two to three days a week. Why he has not been fired, I will never know.

During his latest challenges, I have kept this secret from other family members in hopes that we could get him the help he needs. I have contacted hospitals and authorities and unless he checks himself into a facility, there is nothing anyone can do. So my family must wait to see if he wakes up and goes to a facility, or gets arrested or dies from an overdose.

In the last two days, he has packed up his wife and baby and asked them to leave. We monitored his comings and goings on the toll road to get an idea when he would be back at this apartment. Finally, last evening, when we were sure he was back at home, we went to his apartment and disabled his car so he could not drive to get more drugs. We did this in the hope that he will be forced to get sober and realize what he is doing and get some help. I also finally called and shared all of this with his sister, not only for help for him but support for his wife and baby.

This family member is my youngest son. As his mother, I am heartsick and exhausted from trying to get him the help he needs. They talk about tough love but to me the tough love means the hurt as a parent or friend or family member, experiences as you watch your loved one slowly demise, is the real description of tough love.

Addicts do not care about themselves, the consequences, their families or their friends. Their only friend is the drug the idiot dealer that feed their habit.

In the past I have personally driven to the drug infested areas of my city, looking for my son to get him to come home. I have replaced money he has wasted using drugs so his family could eat and pay their bills. I have researched the places that can help him and given him those resources. I now have been a part of trying to stop him by disabling his car to give him one more chance to wake up and make a decision to get clean.

If you have had this experience remain strong. Don't give up on your loved one. Fight until there is no more fight left, to get your loved one the help they need. We, as an American people, must continue the war on drugs for our future generations. Addictions breed addictions. If you know of someone going through a similar situation, remain compassionate. Someday you could be faced with a similar situation and will need compassion and love returned. None of us are inoculated from this horrible disease.

If you are the addict, please seek the help you need. You are breaking your familys' heart.

Michele Graham-CEO and owner of Professional Healthcare Management has 41 years in the healthcare industry. She writes about business issues in all businesses and the healthcare field as well.

http://www.phmnetwork.com

http://www.healthcarenewsonline.com

http://phmnetwork.blogspot.com

2006-08-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

Most of have some type of addiction, whether it be watching TV or over-eating, or compulsive behavior when cleaning and organizing, smoking or even talking on the phone.

Unfortunately, the worst addictions are drug and alcohol related. More and more families are affected by this terrible disease. It knows no class: you can be poor or rich, black or white or any race for that matter: you can come from a religious background or no religious training at all.

Drug and alcohol addiction ruins families, destroys lives, causes job losses and many more losses too many to discuss here.

The people that encourage drug addiction are self centered and out to make a buck. They could care less about the people they are furnishing with drugs. In my town, Dallas, Texas, there are homeless people on the corners in certain neighborhoods, that will furnish drugs just to ride around in someones' car all day. These people are the worst kind of trash. They feed on the addict for their own selfish reasons.

Our children, our husbands, our wives, our nephews and nieces, our mothers and fathers, if addicts, will sell or give away all of their possessions for that next hit. They have no concept of reality nor do they care at that moment.

Tough love is not for the recipient but for the giver. It hurts to be the tough one and put your foot down more than it hurts to be out there doing your thing, smoking crack or getting drunk.

Trying to get the addict to admit they need help is one of the hardest things to do. They all think they can get okay on their own. Not so! It takes counseling and sometimes medications, to set them back on the right track. And even then, it may take several bouts of being at that lowest point to get through to the addicts and have them make a change.

The folks that hurt worse in this scenario are the children of the addict. They offer unconditional love for the parent/user and do not understand. They love the parent and just want them to be well.

If you are an addict or alcoholic, think about it. How many people are you hurting every time you use. Is it worth losing them? Is it worth living on the street or losing a good job? Is is worth losing a marriage or privileges to see your kids? Who do you see when you look in the mirror?

You are a precious human being. Get some help. Help is everywhere and most of the time, it is free. Start over today! Fight like you have never fought before! There is a world of people hoping and praying for your safe return from the world of addiction. Pick up the phone now and seek help. There is a whole new life waiting for you on the other side.

Michele Graham-CEO and owner of Professional Healthcare Management has 41 years in the healthcare industry. She writes about business issues in all businesses and the healthcare field as well.

http://www.phmnetwork.com

http://www.healthcarenewsonline.com

http://phmnetwork.blogspot.com

2006-07-31T19:27:00.000-07:00

Cash Advances: Addictive, And Dangerous
By Nicola Kennedy

Cash advance is a hassle-free way to emerge unscathed from a temporary financial problem. Acquiring cash advance is easy, since the approval process does not involve much verification. A simple proof of income is enough to bag a cash advance, which can be used to pay off your financial debts or purchase that much needed stuff. However, cash advance is not a panacea. An imprudent trend of using cash advance to satisfy extravagant shopping sprees would lead to nothing but bankruptcy.

The fact that a cash advance can be acquired rather easily may lead you to believe that cash advance is the answer to all your financial troubles. But this is where the addiction steps in – you tend to believe that a cash advance can bail you out of any financial crisis. However, the truth is that cash advance itself is a kind of debt that ought to be repaid. The cash advance firm sets stringent requirements as far as the repayment schedule is concerned. Defaulters are dragged to court and made to pay each penny of what they owe to the cash advance firm.

It might be the case that you were in need for immediate cash in order to buy a much needed accessory. With no other source of funds available, you planned to acquire a cash advance. Then, for once, you might have been able to repay the loan amount to the cash advance firm. But, invariably depending on cash advance for even the most trivial things could land you into trouble. Over dependence on cash advance could land you into a downward spiral of debt with no end in sight. You must avert from developing a habit of acquiring cash advance.

Since it appears to be an easy way to get immediate funds, cash advance can be addictive in a true sense. But, how does it feel to have a constant, overwhelming burden of debt? Acquiring and using cash advance in a reckless fashion could eat away all your funds and render you insolvent. Therefore, avoid taking cash advance on a regular basis.

Nicola publishes an informational site about loans and cash advances, with articles and news, tips and views to help you make the correct choice about Online Cash Advances at http://www.PayDayLoansInformation.net

This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. All rights reserved. Copyright http://www.PayDayLoansInformation.net

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