Another Look at Forgiveness

When my kids were younger they would often fight so I would naturally intercede and break things up. If one was wronged I would "make" the other apologize. I would often hear the most insincere apologies you would ever hear. It would bring a chuckle when they were not looking. Today I would like to take another look at forgiveness and how important it is for recovery.

When one hears the word "forgive" in drug and alcohol treatment, it is not uncommon to dig in one's heels and get resistant. After all, too many of us have experienced hardships and trauma in life and forgiving is the last thing we want to talk about. So how do we approach forgiveness in a way that makes it possible for us to move past the pain and into recovery?

To start with, let's consider the spiritual need for our own forgiveness. Addiction allows us to hold on to a lot of guilt and shame. After all, it does help to keep the addiction alive does it not? Our own guilt becomes a heavy burden to carry but our fifth step enables us to find that forgiveness. The peace we feel enables us to forgive ourselves.

It helps us to heal from the inside out. We trust in the absolution from God and relish in the freedom. Steps eight and nine help us to garner forgiveness from others as we make our amends. That's okay because that is how the steps are designed to work.

But there is a deeper aspect to forgiveness we need to examine. The former idea seeks forgiveness but the more challenging aspect is when we give forgiveness. Admittedly this one is the most difficult but just as vital as the former. Let me be honest though, sometimes we are wronged by people through no fault of our own, but the need to forgive still stands. Consider it this way - when we don't forgive a wrong, we are choosing to hold onto that resentment. When we choose that, we are setting up our next relapse.

Sometimes people hold on because it gives them the sense that someone else is wrong in a world of their own wrongs. The guilt we have will be alleviated temporarily if we can point to others wrongs instead of our own. It's a classic bait and switch.

Don't get me wrong however, I am a realist. I know there are some who are not ready to forgive but maybe realize they need to. To them I would suggest asking God for help in this area. A prayer asking God to forgive them for you may help. Using the God box or taking the Big Book challenge to pray for them can help also.

Remember forgiveness is not so much about absolution of the other, as much as it is about getting the monkey off your back. It's about removing the burdens from you and giving them to God. It's about taking power away from those who hurt you. It's about taking back your life from your past, so your future recovery can have a chance.

Some may think forgiveness means you have to interact with the offender as if nothing happened, but that is not always true. It may happen but that's up to you. If not, it's an opportunity to establish some healthy boundaries so it does not happen again. Forgiveness does not make you a door mat. Forgiveness, dear reader, is not a weakness but one of the most powerful things you can do. When you get to that place you are making the choice for recovery. It is in your arsenal and can be used to fight your addiction. Take it out and dust it off today. Start small, pray for God's grace and see what happens to your spiritual life and recovery.

Positive Effects of Alcohol Rehab Centers

Fixing an amount of alcohol consumption is a big trouble to various countries across the world. People who are drinking in excessive amount ruin their professional and personal life. It may cause issues that cannot be dealt and may lead of a sad end. So, it's better to find the right solution for your loved ones who are suffering from alcohol addiction. You can take them to an alcohol rehab center and get them a right recovery treatment program. Alcohol addicts require assistance of experts and physicians to leave behind their bad drinking habits forever. Enrolling an addict into alcohol rehab is the right aid that can help individuals in recovering soon.

These alcohol rehab center check alcohol dependency rate of an individual and accordingly start with the recovery treatment procedure. They drive hard to help patient in preventing their alcohol addiction. Patients can get various treatment programs depending on their existing addiction level. There are two most used treatment programs for the recovery of people suffering from the addiction of alcohol. These include outpatient and inpatient programs. The only difference between these two types of programs is with regards to where the addict will stay during the treatment.

In inpatient treatment program, the patients need to stay in the rehab center with other patients. On the contrary, in outpatient programs, the patients can go back home and visit the rehab center at the time of therapies and counseling. The main objective of these programs is to treat the alcohol addicts and decrease their number in the society. There are various alcohol rehab that promises to offer programs like medication, therapies, counseling sessions and detoxification appraisal for the recovery of addicts. They make use of varied methods to help patients in staying away from alcohol and saying no to drinking.

Alcohol rehab centers work hard to bring an addict back into addiction free life and helping him in staying healthy. They mainly focus on following a right alcohol addiction recovery treatment that includes appropriate treatment, group interaction and sharing each others life experiences. Further, there are many Christian treatment centers that also offer almost similar treatment, but follow spirituality. They believe in helping patients recovering emotionally, physically and psychologically by using various religious elements. In other words, they use text from the scriptures and aim to help addicts in taking right decisions.

Programs offered by rehab centers are helpful, but only if the patient has strong determination of coming out of his addiction and living a healthier life. If he is ready for the treatment, it is a right time to look for effective alcohol or drug rehab center.

So What's Your Best Shot at Long-Term Sobriety?

In the US alcohol abuse is very prominent, and it not showing any signs of getting better. Though sad, it really isn't surprising based on the shocking statistic that 50% of the country had an alcoholic beverage in the last month.

The most common method to deal with alcoholism is to go the traditional route of a faith-based twelve step program. In media outlets and movies alike, this is the most frequently associated form of rehabilitation - the famous 12 steps. The part that isn't publicized in most of the stories is that most go through these programs multiple times over without successfully conquering their addiction. In fact, the rate for relapse for those who attend 12 step programs are approximately 90-95%.

If that gives a sense of apathy, don't lose hope just yet as there are other options. On the flip side, non 12 step alcohol rehab programs typically only see 20-30% of the people that they initially helped return due to relapse. That means a 70% or greater chance at success - what a difference! While AA truly does want to help people, the methods they use are outdated and proven ineffective. This is why a completely different philosophical approach was created that produces results.

Another major deterrent to the 12 step process is a lot of people are left out in the cold because of their religious beliefs. Very specific religious doctrines play a large part in the 12 steps; and the reality is this excludes atheists as well as others with different religious beliefs.

Individuals of different faiths can have their needs met at alternative alcohol treatment centers. A person's spiritual beliefs do not come into play, unless of course they so desires. As important as religion is to an individual, it is not integral to one's recovery.

The majority of individuals who attend these types of programs spend approximately 90 days. However, in the best facilities no set time is usually predetermined as treatment continues for as long as it's needed for each case. The length of stay can be anywhere from two to twenty-four months.

There is no cookie cutter approach to dealing with addiction at these successful facilities. Their methods vary from one location to the next, but they do follow a core program that yields great results. Modern practices like cognitive behavioral therapy are used. This method helps the person look at their behavior and the things necessary to change it to a more productive path. The major difference is accountability. In a safe environment a person explores their triggers to addiction and how they can have power over it. Then it is possible for them to learn how to act in those situations free of their addictive crutches.

They are given the help they need to initially kick the habit, as well as, the necessary skills to prevent them from reverting back once they leave the program. Once the new behavior is in place the person has a much higher chance of succeeding. Non 12 step alcohol rehabs teach a person how to remove the addict label and live again.

All About Nicotine Test Kits That Use Urine Specimen

Nicotine, an addictive substance, is found primarily in tobacco. When tobacco is used in the form of cigarette, cigar, etc., nicotine enters the body. Many people get addicted to this substance because of its mild sedative effects. To test for nicotine abuse, one has to undergo a test for nicotine. For this, test kits specially meant to test nicotine are available. Of these, test kits that use a urine specimen are popular.

Smoking tobacco - one of the primary causes for pre-mature death
Smoking of tobacco harms all vital organs in the body. Studies show that smokers have low longevity compared to non-smokers. When a person smokes tobacco, about 400 diverse chemicals are released into the body. Of them, substances like nicotine, benzene, carbon monoxide and other chemicals have disastrous effects on the body. Chemicals like benzene are carcinogenic and cause cancer of the heart, the lungs and other vital organs.

Nicotine present in tobacco is not only an addictive substance, but is also a highly harmful substance. Nicotine brings drastic changes in the blood circulatory system of the smoker. Nicotine in tobacco affects the normal functioning of the organs in the body and they lose their vitality soon. It reduces the blood carrying capacity of blood vessels. In other words, nicotine makes blood vessels narrow. All this, plunges the person to premature death.

Nicotine test - a reliable method to detect smoking habit
Being aware of the harmful effects of tobacco, it is essential to find ways to detect tobacco abuse. Nicotine test is the most reliable and foolproof method to detect smoking habit. This test can be conducted using nicotine test kits with the help of any of the three specimens - urine, saliva and blood. In all three methods, nicotine is detected by the presence of its metabolite, cotinine. This is because unlike nicotine, cotinine, stays longer - as long as three weeks in the body.

Urine test kits are found to be more effective in detecting nicotine abuse. Unlike other test kits taking saliva or blood as test specimen, these kits are more effective as cotinine is more easily detectable in urine than in blood or saliva.

Administering and interpreting the results of a nicotine test
With the advent of nicotine test kits, administering test for nicotine has turned out to be quite easy. So also is the interpretation of the results. These kits are economical, reliable, fast and accurate. The kits work on the principle of detecting cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine found in the smoker's urine.

•Administering the test: Nicotine test kits use a small amount of suspect's urine as specimen. The administration of these tests is quite simple. Urine test kits come in the form of cups or strips - both of them can be used easily to conduct the test. These kits avoid the need to consult a professional in this regard.

•Interpretation of results: These urine nicotine test kits display the result by determining the amount of cotinine. A concentration of 200ng/ml to 500ng/ml of cotinine in the suspect's urine sample indicates the active use of a tobacco product. The results displayed by these kits are also easy to read.

The kits can be used any time at homes, educational institutions, professional organizations, insurance companies, law enforcing agencies and the like. The nicotine test kits using a urine specimen are thus helpful in detecting use of tobacco, for they are reliable, simple and can be used anywhere at any point of time.

This news article is brought to you by CUSTODY OF A CHILD - where latest news are our top priority.

When It Is Time for a Professional Intervention

The cat is out of the bag. Your loved one knows that their addiction is no longer a secret. You have begged and pleaded with them multiple times to get help. You have run out of threats to use if they do not quit using. You check to see if they are breathing when they are asleep. You cannot sleep until you know they are home. You cry more often than not and you love them so much that you actually love them to death. This is when you know it is time to seek the help of a professional, before it is too late.

Professional interventionists have the personal and professional experience to handle this procedure precisely. The whole thesis behind an intervention is to take whatever means are necessary to get your loved one into treatment. Realistically, this can be difficult. Most people suffering from addiction have had it too easy and their loved ones are often at fault because they love them so much.

During an intervention, your loved ones bags are packed and the time to enter treatment is right then, not after they make some calls or use one more time. Now! The tough part comes in when they refuse treatment. With the help of a trained interventionist all of the bottom lines have already been determined. The purpose is to leave your loved one with no choice. This is where tough love comes into play.

Throughout your loved ones addiction almost every family member has taken on a role and it is one that is greater than they understand or ever fathomed. Maybe you allow your loved one to remain in your home when you know they are using, maybe you offer financial support, maybe you offer transportation. Whatever the case, you do it out of love, but it ends when your loved one refuses treatment.

You have to force their hitting rock bottom, you have to be firm and you have to mean it. This is very hard to do and why a professional needs to help. You have to be strong enough to say you have to leave my home, I am no longer giving you any money or rides, and I am not going to take any calls from you unless you are calling to enter treatment.

Professional interventionists know how to help you handle the guilt that is involved in delivering this kind of ultimatum. It may sound harsh and it will likely tear at your heart but it is often the only way to avoid the pain of finding your loved one dead from an overdose. Then it is too late. If you have a loved one that is addicted to drugs or alcohol you need to understand that this is bigger than you and you need help. Call in the aid of a professional interventionist today!

This news article is brought to you by CELEBRITY MUSIC NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.

The Diversity And Effectiveness Of Alcohol Rehabilitation Treatments

It's a sad fact of lifestyle that medication or alcohol addiction can impact not only individuals themselves but also themselves. Consequently, liquor recovery programs become ever more essential. Whether you're contacting a liquor rehabilitation line on part of someone close to you, or you're making the essential phase yourself, you'll always be able to find a person or enterprise that's willing to help you through your experience.

Originally developed by Alcoholics Unknown in the USA, the 12 phase recovery program needs the enthusiast to make a sequence of improvements, the first of which is recognizing to a powerlessness over liquor and coming to believe in a Greater Energy - whether that Greater Energy is your own God or another power your own understanding. While the 12 phase program has come under some critique, it still continues to be one of the most well-known and effective methods of liquor rehabilitation; offering an excellent way for individuals from a range of beliefs, as well as atheists and agnostics, to get over the problem of alcohol addiction.

Importantly, all liquor recovery organisations and programs share certain key features - in both emotional and education sense. Rehabilitation therapy centres cure medication and alcohol addiction as sickness, helping sufferers get over this sickness and return to a healthy lifestyle. In general, recovery programs will last from one month to nine months. While some individuals will want to have group (home) therapy, studies have shown that personal liquor therapies present a greater possibility of a successful result than the former. However, personal recovery therapy centres also tend to cure sufferers with a more serious design of habit.

Whether you're looking for in-house therapy or you'd want to be handled at house, most recovery therapy centres and categories will motivate the use of particular liquor recovery programs. The most well-known recovery programs in use include the 12 phase program, healing group liquor recovery, spiritual based liquor recovery and medical model liquor recovery. However, in the UK, the most common form of recovery is the 12 phase programme. I t does not matter your addiction level, you can still be rehabilitated.

As a result, many individuals in need of liquor recovery will select private personal liquor therapies over group therapy. Residential liquor therapy is also beneficial because it allows the affected person to pick a location in which they'd like to cure their alcohol addiction and with this, it can be better.

This news article is brought to you by CELEBRITY GOSSIP NEWS - where latest news are our top priority.

Importance of Christian Drug and Alcohol Rehab Center

Addiction to drugs and alcohol can lead a person's life into total destruction. In fact it is a major communal, monetary, and a municipal health hazard. Once someone gets into drugs then getting out of it a not an easy task. Nowadays a large number of people are going to Christian drug and alcohol rehab center to get out of his addiction. These rehab centers are faith based rehab centers where much importance is given to spiritual awakening. Here they also teach about how to deal with the problems of your mind without taking solace in drugs and therefore getting recovered from drug addiction. It does not matter if you are a follower of Christ or not, the doors of its gate are always opened for you. So if you or anyone in your locality is suffering from drug addiction then you can get him treated in an efficient in such a rehab center and get benefited.

In these treatment centers, they offer proper medical treatment along with psychotherapy and counseling. The main focus here is on treating the patient in a spiritually oriented atmosphere where lots of emphasis is given to prayer and meditation. The medical staff here has the skill and the expertise to motivate a patient to fight with his addiction. These rehab centers make use of core Biblical principles of love, understanding, honesty, faith and tolerance and making patients explore their own spirituality. Here patients reconnect to their spiritual side and feels closeness to God. You can rediscover God in case you have strayed from him. Once you have regained your faith, then you can bring sobriety and change in your life.

Whether you want to get treated for alcohol addiction or drug abuse, you can get effective treatment in these rehab centers. Here they conduct workshops which are conducted by Christian counselors and these counselors also hold one-on-one sessions. During these one-on-one sessions, the counselor helps the patient to identify and assess the patient's specific problem and then develop an appropriate treatment plan to cure him. During the course of workshops, true life stories of people whose lives have been transformed by this program are discussed. This gives motivation to the patients to cope with their addiction and recover from it.

In these service centers the patients are exposed to various extracurricular activities like playing games, singing, dancing, handcrafts etc. to divert their minds from the substance to which they are addicted. It helps in keeping their mind busy and invests their time and effort in positive activities. There are many reasons why someone gets into substance abuse. It may happen due to a failed relationship, death some loved one or living in a dysfunctional family. These treatment centers have proven to be successful in most of the situations. There are many benefits of taking part in these programs. The patient feels a sense of community he is surrounded by support and fellowship. Get treated here and start living a healthy, balanced and normal life once again.

This news article is brought to you by SELF-IMPROVEMENT - where latest news are our top priority.

Smoking Cigarettes And Heart Disease

People smoking their first cigarette usually experience nausea, dizziness and faintness; the classic symptoms of moderate nicotine poisoning. Why then do people continue to smoke? The World Health Organization says that the reasons are closely linked with tobacco promotion, based on careful analysis of social situations. It offers the fulfilment of three dominant aspirations, gender status setting, social status, and false vision of no insecurities.

THE NATURE OF ADVERTISING

In view of the undisputed health hazards and cosmetic disadvantages (smelly hair & clothes, bad breath), tobacco advertising needs to be very powerful to make us brush aside personal sensitivities and sound judgement.

How do they do it? Cigarette advertisers employ the latest psychological techniques of mass persuasion to influence thinking and behaviour. The advertiser does not promote the benefits or merits of smoking, but rather the associated glittering images, fantasies, and our needs for affection, companionship, security, self-esteem or social recognition. For the impressionable and the unwary it often works! Cigarette manufacturers, by constant advertising, would have us believe that smoking is a normal activity of most people. In fact, cigarette smokers are in the minority.

YOUTH GUARANTEES TOBACCO INDUSTRY'S FUTURE

One purpose of advertising is to capture new customers. In the case of the tobacco industry, future profit is assured only if young people are lured into starting the habit. Evidence suggests that a person not smoking by the age of 20 years is unlikely to start, while an adolescent who smokes a second cigarette has a 70% probability of smoking for the next 40 years.

Sports Sponsorship: Though cigarette smoking lowers sporting performance, and is discouraged by coaches, many sporting clubs seem happy to accept tobacco companies as benefactors. This benefactor status creates a favourable impression among a captive audience - today's youth. Cigarette companies know that a persuasive message is more effective when the target audience is not aware of the true purpose. Sports sponsorship is just another 'soft sell' to make the company - and therefore its product - acceptable.

SMOKING SATISFACTION WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

The 'full satisfaction', 'pure smoking enjoyment' and other promised delights really only lift a smoker temporarily out of the depression caused by tobacco withdrawal. The truth is that cigarettes only raise the smoker to a level that will allow normal functioning. Non-smokers are at this level all the time!

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION SPEAKS OUT.

The World Health Organization (WHO), credited with the worldwide eradication of smallpox, is now concerned with tobacco smoking. The World Health Organization feels that within 20 years, smoking should be reduced to a private activity by addicted persons and states that in its opinion the tobacco industry's irresponsible behaviour and its massive advertising and promotional campaigns are direct causes of a substantial number of unnecessary deaths. The World Health Organization recommends to all governments that there should be a total prohibition of all forms of tobacco promotion.

CIGARETTE LABELLING AND CONSUMER PROTECTION.

Were tobacco introduced today as a new product, it would not meet the health standards now expected to protect the consumer. Compare the extensive warnings on substances such as aspirin with the vague warning on cigarette packets. Cigarette labels should at least warn of the dangers of long term use, the possibility of addiction, and against continued use by people who have heart or chest complaints, or circulatory problems. Have health departments and consumer organizations been too soft in this matter?

Learning to Live Happily in Recovery

As an addiction recovery counselor, I have seen that very often after getting free of a drug people are then at a loss. Many times they say to themselves, "what to do now?" Frightened of returning to old habits, they are left wondering if there is anything they can do other than go to meetings.

Since they no longer want to fill a void with substances, I've always taken this milestone very seriously. No longer obsessed with the mechanics of getting high, they have the chance of a lifetime to think about things that you decide to think about!

Start off slowly. Do you like to eat? Instead of dashing off to the nearest fast food place, or even to the grocery store, sit down with paper and pencil and plan. Chances are you may have burned some bridges and you may have money problems. This challenge will help you sharpen the intellect as you take stock of your supplies, check the sale papers and execute a triumphant sweep at the supermarket. When you can come home with groceries that will feed you for a week having spent what you would previously spent on one meal, you will feel the real triumph!

At the daily meetings, which as pretty much a requirement in early recovery, you've got lots of people to meet. However, after such a long time submerging your personality under chemicals you may suddenly find that you're afraid to talk to anyone. You have to remember you are not as mature as other your age. It's very common and the solution is surprisingly simple. Speak anyway. "Hello" is a great start. When you meet someone you genuinely click with, ask for name. Remembering the name and face of one new person at each meeting you attend is an accomplishment! Make it your goal, because no matter how new to recovery you may be, someone has come after you. Being called by name is a real salve on such wounded egos.

If you have a job to return to, please don't try to make amends for all misdeeds right away. Even if you are shy about being in recovery, everyone you came in contact with knew you needed to be. Hold your head up, ask for help, remember that if a day is too much, take life one minute at a time. You deserve to be a healthy, happy, functioning adult. No one can take that away from you.

This news article is brought to you by TEA - where latest news are our top priority.

Learn to Recognize When Alcohol Consumption May Be a Problem

Alcohol is an extremely powerful and highly addictive central nervous system depressant. Legal for purchase in the United States to anyone 21 years of age with appropriate ID, this liquid is obtained by the process of fermentation of carbohydrates by yeast or by distillation of both fruits and grains. While there are various types of alcohol, Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) is the type of alcohol that is actually used to manufacture alcoholic beverages.

Alcohol Consumption Isn't Always a Problem

When used in moderation, alcohol may not become a problem for many consumers and according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), may even be beneficial. Moderation is defined as up to two drinks per day for both men and women. What constitutes a "drink"? A "drink" is defined as 12 oz. of beer or a wine cooler, a 5 oz. glass of wine or 1.5 oz. of 80-proof distilled spirits. While these beverages may vary in ounces, all three of them contain the same amount of alcohol and will effect the consumer equally for this reason. Studies have shown that moderate drinkers are less likely to die from a particular form of heart disease in comparison to those who choose not to drink alcohol at all, or those who regularly over indulge. It is believed that regular use of smaller amounts of alcohol actually help to protect against heart disease by changing the overall chemistry of the blood. This change helps to reduce the risk of blood clots in the arteries of the heart.

When Alcohol Becomes a Problem

Alcohol abuse can happen to any of us and for a variety of reasons, but it's important to note that some of us are naturally at a greater risk than others. Despite the lack of control we may experience when abusing alcohol, individuals can learn to regain control of their lives and live life without using alcohol as a crutch or escape.

The following list represents signs that alcohol may be a problem:

• Drinking for the purpose of getting drunk
• Drinking alone
• Keeping it a secret
• Hiding alcohol
• Drinking to escape reality or problems
• Having problems at work, home, school or with the law due to your drinking
• Losing interest in activities you use to find enjoyable
• Getting irritated when you aren't able to drink
• Getting annoyed with those who are concerned that you may have a drinking problem
• Blackouts due to excessive drinking

The following list represents signs that a person may have become dependent upon alcohol:

• Building a tolerance / being able to consume larger amounts of alcohol
• Trouble stopping once you've gotten started
• Powerful urges to drink
• Withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, shaking, nervousness and nausea

People who should abstain from drinking alcohol include:

• People under the age of 21
• Those who take certain over-the-counter medications
• Women who are pregnant or who are actively trying to get pregnant
• Recovering alcoholics
• Anyone with a medical condition that can be made worse by alcohol consumption
• Anyone operating high-speed machinery or a vehicle that requires skill and alertness

What are the Risk Factors for Alcoholism?

While the risk factors for alcoholism include a family history or genetics, it's important to note that many who struggle with anxiety, depression or low self esteem are also at risk for addiction. People who find themselves to feel socially out of place will often turn to alcohol to feel accepted by their peers and more comfortable in their surroundings. Both men and women are equally likely to develop an addiction to alcohol if there is a childhood history of being sexually or physically abused. Children and teenagers who take their first drink between the ages of 11 and 14 are at greater risk for developing a problem with alcohol, when comparing them to those who drink at any other age.

What are the Long-Term Effects of Alcoholism?

The long term effects of alcoholism or abuse can be devastating to the individual and their families, both physically and psychologically. Virtually every organ in the human body can be negatively impacted when alcohol is consumed over a long period of time in excessive amounts.

Specific examples of long term effects:

• Poor nutrition
• Poor coordination
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Pancreatitis
• Hypertension
• Irregular heartbeat
• Impotence in men
• Irregular menstrual cycles in women
• Strokes
• Amnesia
• Confusion

What Treatment Options are Available for those who Struggle with Alcoholism?

For those who struggle with alcohol and can't seem to get a grip on the vicious cycle of addiction, professional help may be in order. A treatment center that focuses on dealing with the individual as a whole is important, rather than focusing solely on the physical behavior of drinking. Learning to identify the reasons why a person turns to alcohol, discovering new ways to handle emotions and solve problems are greatly beneficial as they provide tools that can be taken home and applied to everyday life and circumstances. It takes courage to recognize when there is a problem and a strong desire to want to change the patterns and behavior.

This news article is brought to you by DATING-FOR-BOOMERS - where latest news are our top priority.

Heroin Abuse Spikes From Efforts to Impede Prescription Opiates

This is the story in Ohio: heroin use is up and those using it are much younger than ever before. There is so much of it that jokes are made about it just falling out of the sky. Heroin is becoming much more popular because it is easier accessed and it is cheaper than prescription opioids. Officials claim that heroin abuse has grown to epidemic levels. This has all happened in about a six month period. In 2010 there were 338 deaths in Ohio that involved heroin. Most people that are addicted to heroin started out abusing prescription pain killers. The primary age of heroin addicts is between 18 and 25.

Ohio is not alone and in fact there has been an increase in heroin abuse and heroin-related overdoses in at least 30 US states. In Utah the top drug of choice has been Methamphetamines but now there is a big spike in heroin abuse. The Narcotics Strike Force blames prescription drugs for this. The Strike Force made some 33 heroin arrests so far in 2012 and 32 of the arrested claimed they began their journey on heroin after abusing prescription drugs.

It is a similar story in Maryland. Heroin use is skyrocketing, especially with teenagers. The face of the typical heroin junkie is no longer the same. Maryland has seen too many deadly overdoses from heroin. These are the faces of 22, 20, 18, 16, and 15 year old young people, some who only tried heroin once and died. Some Maryland counties have reported a 400% increase in heroin abuse. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency says Maryland has the highest heroin addiction ratio in the entire US.

Michigan is no different. None of the states in the US are showing a decline in heroin use. Young people are starting out abusing prescription drugs and think it is alright since these are the pills their parents and grandparents are taking and since they are prescribed by a doctor they have to be safe. They have no clue.

These young people are bright students with good solid futures and come from stable middle class neighborhoods. It starts out with the pills until someone tells them about heroin and how much cheaper it is. It is also readily available for the taking and can be found anywhere. Heroin dealers are no longer lurking in inner city neighborhoods, they can be found anywhere.

This news article is brought to you by CREATIVITY - where latest news are our top priority.

Role of Christian Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers in Curing Addictions

Addiction to drugs and alcohol is a big curse to the society and it has destroyed many individuals and family. Nowadays a large number of people are opting for Christian drug and alcohol rehab center to get rid of their addictions. It is a specialized treatment that combines religious elements with proper care to cure the addict from his addiction to drugs or alcohol. The treatment at these centers is rendered by specially trained medical staffs who are very much concerned about improving the condition of people battling with drug addiction. They make the patient realize their mistakes and give the motivation to fight with their addiction and get out of it successfully.

One of the main benefits of these service providers is that they combine spiritual counseling with effective treatment techniques to treat the patients and the results are quite satisfactory. They try to reach in the deep consciousness of a person's soul and awakens the spiritual divinity in them which is already there but not manifested yet. It makes the patients realize about their inner strength and it helps them to cope with their addiction efficiently and effectively. These treatments are fast growing as an effective means to do away with drug and alcohol addiction.

In these service centers, the patients are made to pray at least an hour a day. It helps them to get into touch with the higher power. Along with it, the patients are kept busy in various extracurricular activities like playing games, singing, handicraft etc. so that his mind is kept busy. It also helps in diverting their mind from the craving of drugs and alcohol. A good number of people are being treated at these centers and have been cured successfully. In addition, they also provide special courses to prevent relapse, courses in life skills and various other social activities which help the addicted person to begin a new lease of life.

They also give emphasis on boosting the moral, self control and self confidence in the patient so that they don't fall back into the evil clutches of drug and alcohol again after going out of the rehab center. They make them realize the beauty of the thing called life and how they can enjoy it without the help of drugs or alcohol. It helps the patients stay clean of the drugs long after the treatment period is over. In this treatment procedure, there are 12 steps which help the addict to get out of their addiction in an efficient way. In addition, it helps in increasing the moral value of the patients, spend time with other Christians and gain knowledge through studying the Bible.

However, you should be aware of the fact that nowadays there are many such service providers available in the market. All of them promise to provide quality services to its patients which may leave you a bit confused about whom services to take. But with the little bit of help research and inquiries you can get an idea about whom services to take. So, get help from a good and well known Christian drug and alcohol center and get benefited.

Why Any Addiction Is a Dangerous One

The addiction has more of a psychological clutch than a physical one. But, when you add all of the emotional, psychological, and physical components together it equals an addiction.

Hash is the resonated remains of what is left from marijuana. So, like marijuana hashish contains THC which is stored in the fat cells of the body for a long time. This means that not only is hash habit forming it is also dangerous.

The short term effects of smoking hashish include lack of muscle coordination, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, concentration problems, short term memory loss, impaired driving, impaired judgment, rime and space distortion, fearfulness, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, paranoia and panic.

The long term effects are even worse from smoking hashish. There is an increased risk of various cancers, respiratory problems, menstrual cycle problems, lower sperm count, psychosis, lack of drive, lack of motivation, and a motivational syndrome.

Because of the nature of hashish addictions it is common to use behavioral therapy techniques to tackle the addiction. Treating this type of addiction warrants breaking the habit psychologically and replacing it with a new and healthy habit. This means living a life to be proud of and one that consists of more than a daily chase to get a buzz.

Just because a hash addiction does not require a formal detox does not make it any less harmful. The intense desire to smoke it is profound and sometimes the mind will reap havoc on a person until they get what the mind has convinced them that they want. This is part of the stranglehold of addiction. You can tell yourself over and over that you are done but in the end the mind wins.

Any type of addiction can make sobriety seem impossible. Sobriety is never impossible and never out of your reach. If you have tried to quit and failed then pick yourself back up and try again. Change is possible, it is real, and it is available with treatment and support. It is very possible that a hashish addiction can be treated with just counseling and some outpatient treatment. Treatment is always confidential so there are no worries there.

The hardest step is the first one and no one is saying this will be easy but making a commitment to sobriety is the first step in reclaiming your life and putting you back in control of your own destiny and embracing a life with no drugs.

Drug Rehab Center for Fast Recovery

Addiction to any kind of drugs can take your life for a toss. Nowadays a large number of people especially youngsters are getting into various kinds of substance abuse and ruining their lives. It's important to diagnose the addiction in the early stage and take remedial action to get rid of it. There are various drug rehab centers available nowadays which treats the patients and helps them to recover from their addiction. They help an addicted person to get back successfully into the society again without the need of drugs in your life.

The main objective of these service providers is to help their patients overcome from their dependency on drugs and start living a normal and healthy life once again. There are many stages during these processes and detoxification is the first stage. During this stage the residues of all harmful substances are removed from your body. Drugs are very harmful substances which affect the body of the addicted person in a very negative way. So, it is quite important that your body is freed from all kinds of drugs and its residues to take the treatment further. During the process of detoxification, the patient is kept away from the drugs to which he is addicted.

After the process of detoxification, the patient is treated with various medications. During this stage, the patient is given medicines and other treatments which help them to deal with the underlying problems of his addiction. Along with providing proper medication and treatment, the rehab centers also make sure that the patient receives enough love, care and attention so that he gets motivated from inside to fight with his addiction. They make the patients to participate in extracurricular activities like some sport, dancing etc. so that their mind is busy. It helps in diverting their attention from the cravings for drugs.

The internet is a very good option to gather information about such service providers in your town or in your locality. By browsing through the internet, you can be able to find an array of websites of such service providers. You can browse through the website and gather information about the services they renders to their patients. Word of mouth is another good way to find important information about them. You can ask people in your friend and family circles who have prior experience of going to such service renders. Their advices and opinions will be helpful for you to get an insight about the quality of services of rehab service providers.

While you are searching for such a service provider, money should not be the main issue. Life is the most important thing you have, take care of it! You should always prefer treatment center that is experienced and well known in this field. Their staffs will be well skilled and have the expertise to give you proper treatment which will help you to get out of your addiction. So, get treated in a good drug rehab clinic and start living a normal and healthy life once again.

This news article is brought to you by LONG-DISTANCE RELATIONSHIP - where latest news are our top priority.

Cut Down Drinking In 3 Easy Steps

Having worked in specialist alcohol treatment centres for many years the most sensible remark I ever heard a doctor say was, "if you are drinking more than 2 or 3 drinks, more than 2 or 3 times a week the chances are it's harming your body." This article simply outlines an easy three step approach to cutting down your alcohol intake if you feel you are drinking a bit too much.

This approach will work, as long as you are not drinking all the time, in which case get yourself off to the doctor immediately.

Drinking problems are insidious; they creep up on people. Over a long period of time, usually about 10 years, it is easy for a heavy drinking pattern to turn from "controlled heavy use" to un-controlled abuse. These three steps will help to interrupt that pattern.

Step 1. You're The Boss

Before you actually do anything it's really important to remember that you are the boss, you are in charge of your life and how you live it. If you want to cut down drinking then you can. The more you say this to yourself, and remind yourself of this fact, the better you'll feel.

Unfortunately, it's very tempting to say and believe the opposite; "I can't do it", "I just can't help it." Very quickly this self defeating message take root and becomes a self fulfilling prophesies. You end up not changing simply because you have convinced yourself that you can't. You can change, you can cut down your drinking. It may not be easy but it doesn't mean that you can't.

Step 2. Manipulate Your Environment

If you have lost control of your drinking changing your environment will be a waste of time. You will drink wherever you are. If though you are, like the vast majority of people, drinking a bit too much, changing how you drink will have a lasting effect.

If you go out with your friends every night and drink too much don't go. If you come home every evening from work and make yourself a stiff drink or three and then eat later on, reverse the order. If you drink through boredom and loneliness, go out and do something. This is not rocket science but surprisingly difficult to identify when you are in the middle of an unhealthy drinking pattern.

So, step 2 is identifying your drinking pattern and changing it. It wont change by itself.

Step 3. Reap The Rewards and Let People Know

As soon as you have made one successful change to your drinking and managed to cut down, let people know and reward yourself (not going out and getting blasted!). Buy yourself something that you have wanted, or some really nice food that you wouldn't normally buy. Cutting down drinking is a great thing, and you should be proud of it, like stopping smoking or eating more healthily. Let people know what you have done as this will reinforce your initial changes.

If you can keep these changes going for 12 weeks your chances of long term change is about 82%, so that is your first goal.

Cutting down drinking, like all the other behaviour changes, such as losing weight, exercising more, stopping smoking and eating more healthily are all possible if you want them to be. It's just a question of finding what method suits you best.

Crocodile (Krokodil): A New and Dangerous Drug

A new drug, that appears to have started in Russia, is causing quite a bit of alarm. This new drug, known by the names Crocodile or Krokodil, is an inexpensive substitute for heroin. Crocodile is made from desomorphine, a synthetic opiate that is a derivative of morphine. In the public domain, Crocodile and desomorphine are synonymous, but in reality, Crocodile refers to a home-made and generally dirty form of desomorphine. This is in contrast to the desomorphine that was developed as an opiate medication in the early 1930's. According to Wikipedia.org, desomorphine is "8-10 times more potent than morphine".

Russia has historically had a high incidence of heroin use and addiction. In an effort to reduce heroin use and associated crime and health problems, Russia has taken steps to reduce the amount of heroin available and therefore increase its street value. This has led heroin to become too expensive or difficult to find for many addicts and opened the door for a cheaper, more accessible alternative.

Compared to heroin, Crocodile is inexpensive to manufacture and therefore, cheap to buy on the streets. This makes crocodile attractive to those looking for an inexpensive "high". As with other home-made drugs, there are many variations in the manufacture of Crocodile. In most cased, there is no purification of the end product and the user is injecting a substances full of toxins. The process for making Crocodile from codeine tablets is similar to the process of making methamphetamine from pseudoephedrine.

The "high" from Crocodile lasts about ninety minutes. This is notably shorter than the "high" one gets from heroin. Given that Crocodile takes approximately an hour to make, many users are spending all of their waking hours either making or using this drug. And given the discomfort of withdrawal from Crocodile, those addicted to it need to wake up frequently at night to take more of it.

Crocodile received its name due to the effect it has on the skin of its users. Crocodile is generally injected and, as noted above, the drug is loaded with toxic chemicals. Crocodile causes one's skin to take on a greenish hue and become scaly. This occurs due to the bursting of blood vessels near the injection site and the resultant death of tissue near the site of the injection. If a vein is missed, the chemical is then injected directly into the muscle. The poisonous nature of this drug causes the muscle and surrounding tissue to develop abscesses and literally rot while on the body.

Although this drug began in Russia, it is beginning to make its way around the world. There have been reports that it is being used in the United States, although data about its availability is limited.

Withdrawal from Crocodile is reported to be quite difficult. In comparison to heroin, the physical pain associated with withdrawal from Crocodile are said to be intense for up to a month and sometimes even longer. It has been reported that the physical sensation of pain is so intense during detox from Crocodile that some users lose consciousness. Due to the difficult detox, as well as lack of treatment services in the poorest areas of Russia where this drug is flourishing, the average life expectancy of a person addicted to Crocodile is 2-3 years.

Chemicals Within Synthetic Drug Bath Salts

First and foremost, bath salts are not what they are marketed as or believed to be. It is called this so it can be legally sold in the United States but they are actually synthetic drugs with ingredients that can cause extreme psychotic episodes, along with other long term negative effects. The bath salts drug is sold to imitate the effects of crystal meth, cocaine, pcp, ecstacy, and/or LSD. It is sold on the Internet and corner stores, smoke shops and gas stations around the country. The drug is marketed under many names such as "vanilla sky", "ivory wave", "red dove", "blue silk, "zoom", and much more.

A lot of people have died using this product. Deaths result from homicide, suicide, overdosing, and at the hands of friends of users or police officers. The reason some die at the hands of friends and/or police officers is because the extremely violent behavior the user of the synthetic drug exhibits and the PCP like super strength they have. The individual ingredients placed in bath salts are to blame for these deaths. Here are the most common and seemingly most dangerous chemicals placed in these products.

Methylone aka M1, bk-MDMA, and 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylcathinone serves as an entactogen/stimulant and is classified as being a cathinone, phenethylamine, and amphetamine. This drug was patented by Alexander Shulgin and Jacob Peyton in 1996, with its intended use of being an antidepressant. In 2004, the chemical began being used for recreational use as the new designer drug to hit the Netherlands. The first product on the market with methylone was named "Explosion," a product that comes in liquid form. Soon Explosion came to the USA and other countries, sold from the Internet.

Methylone soon became one of the ingredients used in the new synthetic bath salts drug. This chemical has harmful effects. The intensity of the negative effects of it is multiplied when blended with other dangerous substances. Below is a list of side effects associated with methylone.

Euphoria/dysphoria, mental stimulation, anxiolysis/anxiogenesis, insomnia, derealization, hallucinations, hypertension, hyper-thermia, sweating, tachycardia, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and psychotic episodes can be found in methylone users.

Mephedrone (4-MMC) is an active ingredient identified in the synthetic bath salts drug. This concentrate was banned from use but can still be found in some of the alter egos of the drug. It falls in the amphetamine and cathinone classes and is commonly referred to as meph, drone, and M CAT. It is allegedly manufactured in China and has compounds similar to those found in Khat plants found in eastern Africa. The forms of this chemical include tablets and powders, which can be snorted, swallowed, or injected with effects related to cocaine and amphetamines.

Negative effects

Paranoia, erratic and delusional behavior, troubles with short term memory, short attention span, teeth grinding, depression, sweating, appetite loss, increase in body temperature and heart rate, and difficulty breathing. Nose bleeds and burns occur when snorting mephedrone. Under special circumstances the user may suffer heart palpitations, blue fingers, and seizures. This chemical found in the synthetic bath salts drug is also highly addictive. The user may be prone to psychotic episodes with long term abuse.

MD.P.V is a psycho-active drug with stimulant properties. First created in 1969, it became an abused discovery when it was sold as designer drugs. Some names for this chemical are Black Rob, Magic, MTV, Super Coke, and Peeve. This substance is most commonly found in the dangerous bath salts synthetic drug. Here are a list of physiological and psychological side effects users may suffer below.

Rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, narrowed blood vessels, inability to sleep, stomach cramps, increase in body temperature, chills, dilated pupils, and headaches are common occurrences. Sometimes the user of MD.P.V with experience severe paranoia, psychotic episodes, extreme anxiety, renal failure, violent behavior, and suicidal thoughts and actions. Long term use may lead to respiratory failure, liver failure, and might end in seizures.

The synthetic drug bath salts are extremely dangerous and should not be tried by anyone. Stores that sell them may not identify the age of those who want to purchase it, as the link in the resources box shows videos of investigation. The videos show underage teens buying the drug with no problem while undercover with hidden cameras. The link also gives information on recent murders, suicides, and overdose stories.

This news article is brought to you by HUNTING - where latest news are our top priority.

The Basic Facts About Marijuana - The World's Most Commonly Used Illicit Drug

Marijuana is notorious for being the world's most commonly used illicit drug. With nearly 200 names, marijuana is collectively known as pot, grass or weed. While the general population may believe weed is relatively harmless, it is far more dangerous than most users realize. Originating from the plant Cannibis sativa, the main mind altering (psychoactive) ingredient in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), but more than 400 other chemicals can be found in the plant.

The strength of the drug and its effects, all hinge around the amount of THC that is in the weed. The strength will vary based on the type of plant, the soil, the weather, the time of harvest and other factors as well. Today's marijuana is about ten times stronger than the marijuana that was available to users in the early 1970's. The sophisticated cannabis cultivation of today reaps a much higher level of THC content, averaging less than 1 percent in 1974 and rising to an average of 4 percent in 1994. An increase in physical and mental awareness, due to a higher potency of THC, poses the possibility of health problems for the user.

How Long Do Chemicals from Marijuana Stay in the Body?

THC is absorbed by most tissues and organs in the body and can be primarily found in the fat tissues in the liver, lungs and testes. The body recognizes THC as a foreign substance and attempts to rid itself of the chemical, forming metabolites. Urine tests can detect THC metabolites for up to a week after users have smoked weed. Traces may be picked up by sensitive blood tests anywhere from two to four weeks later.

How is Marijuana Used?

Marijuana and other products derived from cannabis are usually smoked, either in a pipe or a water pipe. However, the majority of users will loosely roll a cigarette known as a "joint." Some users will take the time to hallow out a cigar and replace the tobacco with marijuana, to make what are called "blunts." Unfortunately, both blunts and joints can be laced with other substances, including crack cocaine or PCP, a very potent hallucinogen. This causes the user to experience a substantially mind altering high.

While smoking may be the primary choice for users, it certainly isn't the only route. Marijuana can also be brewed as tea or mixed into baked products such as cookies or brownies.

What are the Immediate Effects of Smoking Marijuana?

While some may argue this point, marijuana is considered to be a mild hallucinogen. An increase in pulse rate, faster heartbeat, bloodshot eyes and a dry mouth and throat are all symptoms that occur immediately. Studies have shown the drug can impair or reduce short term memory, alter a person's sense of time and reduce the ability to do things which require concentration, swift reactions, and coordination. Driving a car or operating machinery are not advised and may result in some serious legal slaps for those who choose to risk it. Moderate doses of weed will induce a sense of well-being and a dreamy state of relaxation.

"Acute panic anxiety reaction" is a fairly common adverse reaction that may be experienced by some users. A feeling of extreme loss of control can be overwhelming, causing panic rooted in fear. Fortunately, the symptoms usually disappear in a few hours.

Generally, users will feel the effects of smoking within a few minutes, with their high peaking in 10 - 30 minutes.

How Does Marijuana Effect the Human Reproductive System?

Studies have shown both men and women to have a temporary loss of fertility. Some research indicates that the use of marijuana during pregnancy may result in low birth weight and premature babies. During adolescence, our young people are experiencing rapid physical and sexual development, making it even more harmful during this time in their lives.

Does Marijuana Effect the Lungs?

Marijuana users often inhale the unfiltered smoke and hold it deep in their lungs for as long as possible, bringing the smoke in direct contact with the lung tissue for long periods of time. Not only does this irritate the lungs and damage the way they work, it also exposes the lungs to some of the same cancer causing ingredients found in tobacco smoke. Cellular changes known as metaplasia are considered to be precancerous and can be found in human lung tissue upon examination of those who have used marijuana for several years. The tars from marijuana have produced tumors when applied to the skin of an animal and it is suggested that it is likely to cause cancer in humans as well.

What are the Dangers for Young People?

Research shows that teens are more likely to experiment with other drugs based on how early they began using marijuana. They will often times lose interest in their schoolwork, becoming less motivated to complete the task at hand. Learning can become greatly impaired, effecting the ability to think, comprehend both in reading and verbal skills as well as mathematical skills being stifled. Research has shown that students are not capable of remembering what they have learned when they are "high". There seems to be a failure to master certain vital interpersonal coping skills. Ultimately, our young people who smoke weed set themselves up for the inability to make appropriate life-style choices and inhibit their own maturity.

Marijuana has been deemed as a "gateway drug", opening the door for the individual to explore more potent and disabling substances. The Center for Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found young people who smoke weed 85 times more likely to use cocaine in comparison to those in the peer group who chose to abstain from using. Additionally, 60 percent of our younger generation who have used weed prior to turning 15, later go on to use cocaine.

Marijuana Dangers

• Increased Heart Rate
• Anxiety, Panic Attacks and Paranoia
• Hallucinations
• Loss of Motivation
• Increased Risk of Accidents
• Impaired Judgement
• Impaired Perception
• Diminished Short-Term Memory
• Loss of Concentration and Coordination
• Diminished Inhibitions
• Hallucinations
• Psychological Dependency
• Increased Risk of Cancer
• Damage to the Respiratory, Reproductive and Immune Systems

If you or a loved one is struggling with marijuana use, please seek the professional advice of those in the field of drug and alcohol addiction.